the island of Hawaii is the youngest and largest island in the Hawaiian chain. Nearly twice as big as all of ther other Hawaiin Islands combined (hence, its nickname, "Big Island"), its sheer size is awe-inspiring. You can travel through all but for of the world's different climate zones here, ranging from Wet tropical to Polar Tundra, a result of the shielding effect and elevations of the massive volcanoes Manunakea and Maunaloa. From the many geologicla features at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to the snow-capped heights of Maunakea; from the lush valleys of the Hilo and Hamakua Coasts to the jet-black sands of Punaluu Beach, the island of Hwaii is an unrivaled expression of power of nature. However you decide to experience the island, it is sure to leave you humbled!
Sometimes called “The Gathering Place,” Oahu certainly lives up to its name. The third largest Hawaiian island is home to the majority of Hawaii’s diverse population, a fusion of East and West cultures rooted in the values and traditions of the Native Hawaiian people. It’s this fundamental contrast between the ancient and the modern that makes discovering Oahu — from bustling city life to laidback surf towns — so enjoyable. You'll find plenty of different options for exploring Oahu's different regions, the island's many activities, its eclectic restaurants and accommodations. Oahu is home to the largest population of people as well as the best nightlife in Hawaii. The Honolulu craft beer and food scene here is dynamic and always changing. For a taste of the local culture, check out the neighborhoods of Kakaako, Kaimuki, Kapahulu and Chinatown. Waikiki and Ala Moana Center are world-class shopping destinations, while boutiques in beach towns like Kailua captivate with their own charms. The surfing mecca of the world is Oahu’s North Shore, and surfers flock there every winter to witness the best the world has to offer. History buffs will find their bliss among Honolulu’s cultural gems such as Pearl Harbor and Iolani Palace.
If Oahu is the heart of Hawaii, then Honolulu is its racing pulse. In this cosmopolitan capital city, you’ll find
everything from historic landmarks to fine dining to world-class shopping. Home to the majority of Oahu’s population,
Honolulu stretches across the southeastern shores of the island, from Pearl Harbor to Makapuu Point, encompassing
world-famous Waikiki Beach along the way.
From barefoot fish tacos at Duke’s Beach House in Waikiki to the eclectic food scene in trendy Chinatown, Honolulu has
something for every taste. Sample fine Hawaii Regional Cuisine at local institutions like Alan Wong’s Restaurant, Roy’s
Waikiki or Chef Mavro. Explore Honolulu’s residential neighborhoods and eat like a local with plate lunches, poke and
fresh produce from the city’s many fantastic farmers markets.
Located on the south shore of Honolulu, the world-famous neighborhood of Waikiki was once a playground for Hawaiian royalty. Known in Hawaiian as "spouting waters," Waikiki was introduced to the world when its first hotel, the Moana Surfrider, was built on its shores in 1901. Today, Waikiki is Oahu’s main hotel and resort area and a vibrant gathering place for visitors from around the world. Along the main strip of Kalakaua Avenue you'll find world-class shopping, dining, entertainment, activities and resorts.
Whether you’re looking for Hawaiian-made handicrafts to remember your trip by or high-end fashion labels you can’t find at home, Honolulu is a shopper’s paradise; you may even want to pack an extra suitcase for all the treasures you’ll find.