Hawaii's most visited island, Oahu has much to offer besides the clamor of humanity in Honolulu, Waikiki. Oahu offers an outstanding array of natural beauty spots and places of

Hanauma Bay

An excellent spot for snorkeling. There are over 400 species of fish, some of which exist only here.

Address: 7744 Kalaniana'ole Highway (Hwy 72)

Admission: There is a US$3.00 entrance fee if you are a non-resident; free entrance - if you can show valid local identification. There is a US$1.00 per car parking fee.

Amenities: Lifeguards, concession stand, picnic areas, phones, showers and restrooms.

Dole Plantation

The Plantation’s main attraction is a gift store selling pineapple related foods and gift products. Behind the store is a garden filled with different pineapple varieties. Although the garden is quite small, it gives you a chance to actually see pineapples growing and to see the various kinds of pineapples grown in different parts of the world. Dole has also developed the 'world’s largest pineapple garden maze' which is adjacent to the garden.

Address: 64-1550 Kamehameha Highway (Route 99)

Polynesian Cultural Center

The Polynesian Cultural Center is 42-acre theme park showcasing the centuries-old cultures of Samoa, Tonga, Fiji, Tahiti, New Zealand and the Hawaiian Islands. Native-born people of each of these places have re-created authentic villages spotlighting their traditional lifestyles, customs, folklore, music and dance. At dinner time, you'll enjoy a lavish all-you-can-eat buffet featuring traditional dishes from each Polynesian village. Following dinner, you'll be dazzled by a cast of 174 performers who present a 90-minute extravaganza.

USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor

The Arizona memorial is a tribute to American fighting men killed during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, December 7, 1941. The memorial sits above the sunken battleship. On busy days tickets may all be allocated by 1pm, and there is often a wait of up to 2 hours for the boat to the offshore memorial. It is best to get your ticket first and then browse in the museum, which features details of the attack and histories of the ships, planes, and personnel involved. Near the ticket desk is a panel describing the volunteers for the day . They are usually Pearl Harbor survivors and are available to answer questions and share their stories.

Address: 1 Arizona Memorial Drive

Waikiki Beach

The world's most famous beach. It runs from Kuhio Beach near the Honolulu Zoo to the Hilton Hawaiian Village. This beach is open to the public.

Bishop Museum and Planetarium

Bishop museum boasts a spectacular collection of Hawaii's past and the history of Polynesian warriors and their ancient civilization. In addition, The Planetarium takes an unusual look at how the stars have influenced our planet, Hawaii and navigation.

Address:1525 Bernice Street

Diamond Head State Park Hiking Trail

Diamond Head, the world-renowned landmark, bounds Waikiki Beach on the south. It is actually an extinct volcano. The trail will lead you to the highest point of the Leahi summit where you will get a superb panoramic view of Honolulu. The family hiking trail is 0.7 mile long (one-way) and climbs 560 feet in elevation from the crater floor. The Leahi summit is 760 feet above sea level. Hiking time is approx. 1 ½ hours round trip. Bring water and start early.

Waimea Falls Park

Located in the North Shore across the highway from Waimea Bay Beach Park. Waimea Falls is a lush 1,800 acre historical nature park with archaeological ruins, a bird sanctuary, Hawaiian games site, hiking and picnicking. An open air minibus winds along trails with knowledgeable guides pointing out magnificent gardens, historical sites and wildlife. There are Hawaiian cliff diving shows and ancient hula dancing throughout the day. Walking tours are also available.

Haleiwa Town

Haleiwa was originally a whaling town, now it's a rustic, rural, bohemian art and surfing mecca. You'll also experience the 'country in Hawaii' as you drive from Haleiwa to Kahuku on the North Shore. Quaint shops, small town atmosphere and annual festivals make this an interesting artsy getaway. Try the Matsumoto shave ice or oceanfront dining at Haleiwa Joe's. The North Shore is known for its beautiful beaches. Famous surf-spot 'Pipeline' and Sunset Beach are just a short drive away.