Located on the south shore of Honolulu, the world-famous neighborhood of Waikīkī was once a playground for Hawaiian royalty. Known in Hawaiian as "spouting waters," Waikīkī was introduced to the world when its first hotel, the Moana Surfrider, was built on its shores in 1901. Today, Waikīkī is Oʻahu’s main hotel and resort area and a vibrant gathering place for visitors from around the world. Along the main strip of Kalākaua Avenue you'll find world-class shopping, dining, entertainment, activities and resorts.

Take a much needed break from all the lying on the beach and hike in one of Hawaii's premier state parks. The trail to the summit of Leʻahi (Hawaiian name for Diamond Head Crater) was built in 1908 as part of Oʻahu’s coastal defense system. Completed in 1911, the Fire Control Station at the summit directed artillery fire from batteries in Waikiki and Fort Ruger outside Diamond Head crater. The walk is a glimpse into the geological and military history of this volcanic crater. Much of the trail is a natural tuff surface with many switchbacks traversing the steep interior slope of the crater wall. The ascent continues up steep stairs and through a lighted 225-foot tunnel. At the summit, you’ll see bunkers on the crater rim and a navigational lighthouse built in 1917 along the coast outside the crater. The postcard view of the shoreline of southeastern Oʻahu from Koko Head to Wai’anae is stunning, and during winter, may include passing humpback whales.

Located a stone's throw from Oahu, this special place vibrates with stories of ancient and modern Hawaiian culture and protects the bond between the land and its people. This National Park also cares for endangered species, some of which exist nowhere else. Come visit this special place - renew your spirit amid stark volcanic landscapes and sub-tropical rain forest with an unforgettable hike through the backcountry.

Unfortunately, Moo Deng won't be on tour. I know-- we were disappointed too.

From pink flamingos to African giraffes, the Honolulu Zoo is home to a little bit of everything from the animal kingdom. Its animal population includes more than 64 reptile, 38 mammal and 160 bird species. The 42-acre facility is organized into three tropical ecological zones: Tropical Rainforests, Pacific Islands and the African Savanna. Among its highlights is a new $12-million, 1.5-acre Asian tropical elephant exhibit that includes a 7,260-squre-foot holding area and two 55,000-gallon pools.

International Market Place is an open-air retail, dining and entertainment destination in the heart of Waikīkī offering a world-class lineup of restaurants and retailers. The center’s innovative design includes imaginative water features, an entertainment stage and Hawai‘i-inspired landscaping, and spotlights the International Market Place’s iconic 160-year-old banyan tree. Make sure to stop by on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 6:00pm on Level 1 in Queens Court for our Free Hula Show! Learn about the rich history and culture of International Market Place and the land on which it sits through our free cultural audio tour.

Immerse yourself in a pivotal moment of American history as you tour Pearl Harbor. Experience the solemn beauty and learn the inspiring stories of bravery and sacrifice at one of the most significant sites of World War II.