Honolulu is the biggest city in the state of Hawaii in the U.S and it has been the capital of the Hawaiian Islands since 1845. Today, it is the capital of Hawaii State. In the Hawaiian language, Honolulu means a ‘place of shelter’. It has a population of over 0.39 million is famous for being a host for highly diversified traditions as well as pacific and east-west cultures. It has many exciting attractions for visitors.
The Town of early sunrises:
Honolulu is a town of early risers, thus be a part of predawn joggers and bikers on the two-mile coastal path that skirts Diamond Head Crater, where you’ll pass sleepy headed surfers scoping out the water conditions below. For Oahu’s best sunrise, take the invigorating 45-minute hike to the summit.
The USS Arizona Memorial:
The USS Arizona Memorial is the most accepted symbol of the courage displayed in World War II in the Pacific National Monument.
It is not a place for fun or adventure but a place for learning and contemplation.
Authorization for entry is acquired only from the Pearl Harbor Visitor Centre.
Free tickets for the USS Arizona Memorial 75 minute program are then obtained.
Visitors get an in-depth overview of the memorial through a brief introduction and an actual film of the attack which takes about 23 minutes in either of the two theatres. Visitors then take a shuttle boat to the memorial itself where they will be taken through the final resting place of the marines and sailors killed during the attack.
Tickets for the memorial are free but on-line reservations attract a 1.25 dollar convenience fee.
Haleakala national park:
Haleakala national park preserves the outstanding volcanic landscape of the higher slopes of Haleakala on the Island of Maui Island and protects the distinctive and fragile ecosystems of Kipahulu valley, the scenic pools on Oheo gulch, and lots of rare and species
The Diamond Head:
The Diamond Head is a hiking adventure on a 350-acre crater and is a dominant tourist attraction. Although it may be an easy walk for many, it has nice paths for children and the elderly.
Visitors who manage to get to the top have the best view of Hawaii and the photographs will be really nice.
Entry costs only one dollar but five dollars for a car.
The Bishop Museum:
The Bishop Museum is a globally recognized museum for its extensive informative programs, research and rich collection.
It is the place to get an experience of the art and culture of the Hawaiian people. The six halls will give you an insight of the Hawaii culture by viewing the most valued artefacts, world-class exhibitions on display and the worlds’ only live hot lava pour is here.
The Iolani Palace:
This palace was built in 1883 and was the official residence of the last king of Hawaii. The walls are rich in the history of the Hawaii people.
A guided tour of the main rooms and the upper floor costs 20 US dollars for adults and 5 for children and one will be provided with great history on the events surrounding the palace. However, one can also make a self-guided tour for 12 US dollars.
The Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve:
The preserve is an adventurous scene for snorkeling. Snorkelers get a spectacular view of numerous tropical fish, sea turtle and live coral.
The water is clear and calm and therefore suitable for both amateur and experienced snorkelers.
Visits:
It is important to note that those intending to make visits to Honolulu under the Visa Waiver Program will need to clear with the Electronic System for Travel Authorization ESTA first before obtaining for authorization.