Honolulu - Attractions & Sightseeing
Places to visit > Honolulu - More in this category > Haleiwa > Hanauma Bay > Kailua > Kaneohe > North Shore > Pearl City > Pearl Harbor > Sunset Beach > Wahiawa > Waikiki > Sea Park > Honolulu Zoo > WaterfallsNEW - see http://www.google.com/transit for planning bus routes....
The thriving city of Honolulu is set against the beautiful backdrop of the Ko'olau Mountains and framed by the brilliant blue Pacific Ocean. Honolulu is the heart of Hawaii. It houses the state government and university and is widely recognized as the financial capital of the state. Honolulu is a city of contrasts. It has the military muscle of Pearl Harbor, the glamour of Waikiki, the tranquility of the botanical gardens, and even the seedier side of "girlie shows" and raucous bars.
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The sights in Honolulu are numerous, and tourists can spend days wandering the city, seeing the sights and meeting the people. Like any modern cosmopolitan city, Honolulu boasts some world-class shopping and restaurants and although these can be alluring, don't forget to see the sights that make Honolulu unique.
Honolulu, Hawaii's Capital
In Downtown Honolulu you will find the official home of the last Hawaiian monarchs, known as Iolani Palace. The palace was built for King David Kalakaua and passed on to the later overthrown Queen Lili'uokalani. Visitors have the option of touring the palace with a guide who fully explores and describes the history of this landmark building.
After the Queen was ousted from the palace she moved in to Washington Place, a colonial style mansion, where she lived out the rest of her years. It is now the official residence of the governor of Hawaii and, although it is not open to the public, you can still appreciate the beauty of the estate.
A little off the tourist trail is the Honolulu Academy of Arts that houses a superb collection of fine art. Works from the likes of Van Gogh, Monet and Picasso are displayed proudly around this beautifully converted residential home. It is an absolute must for art lovers! While wandering through downtown be sure to visit The State Capitol, Honolulu Hale, St. Andrews Cathedral and the mission houses. Chinatown's main appeal is its markets that attract those looking for a different kind of shopping experience. Should you need a bite to eat be sure to consider Wo Fat's, Hawaii's longest standing restaurant at 100 years!
After the bustle of Chinatown, the Waterfront offers a more peaceful experience. Relax on the beautiful green lawn and sandy-white beach of Ala Moana Beach County Park. This is where the city dwellers come, as opposed to Waikiki, to enjoy the sea, sun and serenity.
The Hawaii Maritime Center illustrates Hawaii's history on, in and around the ocean. With displays on Captain Cook, the whaling industry, surfboards and more, the center is both educational and entertaining. The main attractions are the two moored vessels outside - Falls of Clyde and the Hokule'a.
Honolulu is one of Hawaii's most interesting cities, be sure you make use of its full potential and enjoy it!The other islands of Hawaii - Big Island - Kauai - Lanai - Maui - Molokai - Cruises
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