Hawaii is one of the premiere tourism attractions in the world because it has everything a visitor could want:
A never-ending landscape of natural beauty; a rich cultural history going back thousands of year; all the technological comforts and enhancements of the modern era; plus some of the most delightful weather on the planet.
The only real difficulty for any tourist is where to begin?
A lot of visitors like to start with Oahu - Hawaii's most populated island, and home to Honolulu, the Aloha State capital. Oahu is a fascinating mèlange of cultures including Polynesians who settled the area. For more recent island history, visit Iolani Palace in Honolulu the only palace in the United States and the official residence of Hawaiian kings and queens.
Oahu is rich in 20th century history, as well: Pearl Harbor was ground zero for the Japanese attack that led to America's involvement in World War II. Today, pay your respects to the fallen sailors at the "USS Arizona Memorial" USS Arizona Memorial in Pearl Harbor.
There are plenty of natural attractions as well: you can hike to the top of the ancient volcanic crater known as Diamond Head, see heart-stopping surfing exhibitions at the North Shore or tour a pineapple plantation.
Then, hit the nightlife at Waikiki Beach -- and check out the dining scene. Feast on the world's cuisine at renowned restaurants showcasing Chinese, Filipino, Thai, French, and of course, native Hawaiian delicacies (and don't forget that all-time favorite, "shave ice" try it at Waiola Bakery and Shave Ice in Honolulu's Kapahulu neighborhood).
Hotels in Oahu can mean anything from a bed & breakfasts to a 4-star resorts to a thatched-roofed cottage; for a partial listing of hundreds of accommodations all over the islands, see Hawaii's official visitors site. If it's luxury you want, no problem; as the Honolulu Star Bulletin points out, 23 Hawaiian properties recently have made a list featuring the world's finest hotels.
Hawaii is called the Big Island because it's bigger than all the others combined. It's the place where you can experience everything from sandy beaches to a snow-capped mountain beautiful Mauna Kea and, live-flowing lava at Kilauea Volcano!
Historical Hilo is a town of 100 year old store fronts - and subtle sophistication. You'll enjoy the crafts and artwork from local and professional artisans, and don't overlook Hilo's amazing Farmer's Market - not if you like orchids!
Then travel the Kona Coast to see everything from art galleries to coffee plantations (yes, you can take some home) and don't miss the beautiful bay, where you can snorkle and see dolphins at play.
For many, Maui means rest and relaxation. But it's also where you can see whales at play, drive the breathtaking 53-mile Hana highway, enjoy all the amenities of world-class resorts and more.
Or you can simply lie on those gorgeous white beaches, swim the turquoise waters - and relax.
Hawaii's official visitors website, GoHawaii.com is a terrific resource find hotels, restaurants and more tourism delights on a single, handy site thoughtfully divided up, island by island.
Fare Compare has compiled a comprehensive zone, country, state and city air travel listing. This page contains cities with flights and airfares within Hawaii, United States.
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