Destination Guides: Honolulu, United States - City Overview

Anyone fortunate enough to be traveling Honolulu doesn't have to give a reason. They can just say, "We're going to Honolulu," and imagination will take over. Honolulu will probably live up to and surpass whatever we dream the experience will be. World-famous beaches and tropical weather set the scene for an amazing mix of Pacific cultures in this Hawaiian capital. There is a reason why Hawaii is consistently rated as one of the nation's top travel destinations; in fact, there are several of them.

Waikiki Beach is the center of activity for Hawaii's biggest industry: tourism. It is one of the world's greatest resort playgrounds, featuring some of the most beautiful beaches and hotels in the world. Visitors flock there to enjoy the sun, the sand, the water, and the incredible nightlife.

Besides enjoying the beaches, visitors to Honolulu take tours of the countryside surrounding the downtown area. The tours highlight the beautiful rainforests and fascinating volcanoes. Animal and plant life thrive, and the scenery is unsurpassed. A five-minute ride from Honolulu brings visitors into some of Nature's most awe-inspiring sights. Several museums, including the Bishop Museum, combine exhibits of Hawaiian natural history with lessons about the history and culture of its diverse peoples.

The Waikiki Aquarium is the third oldest public aquarium in the United States and features many of Hawaii's most interesting sea animals. The Honolulu Zoo houses some of the unique mammals, birds, and reptiles that inhabit the forests just outside the city.

The history of Hawaii is rich, as the islands have always attracted people representing many cultures. Visitors can tour the Tolani Palace, the residence of the last of the Hawaiian monarchs. They can also visit Honolulu's Chinatown, which is authentic in every way. The Arizona Memorial, commemorates the destruction of the Battleship Arizona during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor that brought the United States into World War II.