Oahu, Hawaii

ʻIolani Palace is the only official royal residence in the United States. The last king of Hawaii was David Kalakaua, who ruled the kingdom in the late nineteenth century. Hawaii became an American territory in 1900 and, almost 60 years later, was declared the 50th American state.

The two-mile stretch of beach south of central Honolulu is the island's main resort area and, thus, one of the biggest draws for tourists who flock here for laid-back vibes, gentle surf, dining, entertainment, nightlife and shopping. Lying in the shadow of the Diamond Head makes not only stunning views but also an easy access to one of Hawaii's most famous landmarks.

The United States naval base at Pearl Harbor was surprised by a Japanese military strike on the morning of December 7, 1941: all eight U.S. Navy battleships were damaged, more than 2,000 Americans lost their lives, and this very attack led to the American involvement in World War II. Today, a memorial reminds of those who died in the assault, while two museums and outdoor exhibits present the historical happenings and their backgrounds. The visitor centre in general also features exhibits and interpretive programs for other Pacific National Parks: Kalaupapa National Historical Park on the island of Molokai, American Memorial Park in Saipan, and War in the Pacific National Historical Park in Guam.

Hawaii’s most famous landmark, the Diamond Head, is a volcanic crater with a 360-degree view over the island, and its name comes from English sailors who thought that its calcite crystals were pure diamonds. The scenic hike up to the summit, taking the so-called stairway to heaven, will not be soon forgotten, and so it happens to the views from atop.

Experience the gracefulness and the beauty of aquatic mammals and sea turtles with this unique tour where you'll get a chance to encounter dolphins, whales, and turtles. Wild Side Specialty Tours offers personal and high quality tours with many different options.

The Honolulu Zoo is home to over 900 different animals from the tropics, including Komodo Dragons, orangutans, elephants, primates, and a variety of African mammals. Distributed on 42 acres of tropical greenery, the aviary is especially charming, as visitors can here admire a variety of native Hawaiian birds, including the nene and 'apapane.

Ring the 5-foot and 3-ton brass bell for good luck, feed droves of eager carp, ducks and swans in the garden's pond, or just relax in the ambiance of the Byodo-In Temple. However, make sure to visit the 2-ton carved wooden statue of the Buddha sitting placidly inside the replica Temple, hearkening 11th century Uji, Japan.

The Bishop Museum provides excellent exhibits of Hawaiian and Polynesian culture, including Hawaiian artifacts and royal family heirlooms. The museum was founded in 1889 in honor of the royal Kamehameha family and it is definitely one of the must sees when visiting Honolulu.

This 1-mile hike at Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline Park takes visitors over beautiful hills to the historic Makapuʻu lighthouse, and it always provides places for having a break and for admiring the breathtaking scenery. During the winter months, it is possible to view humpback whales during their long migrations.

This beautiful former home of Doris Duke is now a museum housing the Foundation for Islamic Art, which promotes the study and understanding of Islamic arts and cultures. Book a guided tour for exploring the five acre complex with the house itself, a playhouse, a pool, courtyards, terraces, gardens, and water feature. Access to Shangri La is by reservation or business appointment only.

On this 7-acre farm, 2,000 arabica coffee trees grow out of green beans from all over the Hawaiian islands. While free samples of at least 5 varieties of coffee are always available in the store, and you can also enjoy a fresh cup at the espresso bar. However, do not forget to go on a self-guided tour to learn more about the production on the farm itself.

The Harold L. Lyon Arboretum is 200-acre of real nature rather than a cosmetically designed and landscaped garden. On the trails winding through this impressive scenery, you can find some of the most representative Hawaiian plants and trees, such as breadfruit and sugarcane, so do go here for a lovely and relaxing stroll.