Honolulu is the capital of the most unusual state in America. The city is located on the island of Oahu in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. A unique culture and interesting traditions have been formed here. You can learn about the peculiarities of life in Hawaii in local museums. In special institutions of the Luau and even in ordinary shopping centers, performances of hula dancers are held — the same dance that has been shown many times in movies and cartoons. The local food consists of a mixture of American and Asian traditions. Exotic nature occupies a separate place — with volcanoes, snow-white beaches and an incredible underwater world. Honolulu is a Mecca for surfers who are not afraid of high waves. History lovers who go to Hawaii will love the monuments in Pearl Harbor, telling about one of the greatest American tragedies of the Second World War.
Waikiki Beach
What to do in Honolulu? Of course, first of all it is worth going to the most popular coast of Hawaii — Waikiki Beach. In the XIX century, this place was loved by the Hawaiian royal family, known for their passion for riding the waves. Here everyone will be pleased to relax on the soft sand, swim in the ocean waters and surf on high crests. You can watch the rich underwater world while snorkeling. However, it is worth paying attention to the warning signs that indicate the presence of jellyfish that prevent you from enjoying the water. On the lively Kalakaua Avenue, behind the sandy zone, there are luxury boutiques and fine dining establishments. Along the entire coastline there are luxury hotels, including Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort.
The entire length of Waikiki Beach from this resort to Diamond Head Volcano can be divided into nine parts – Duke Kahanamoku Beaches, Grace, Royal Hawaiian, Queens Surf, Outrigger Canoe Club and parks Kuhio Beach, Kapiolani Beach, Sans Souci Beach, Fort DeRussi Beach.
Duke Kahanamoku Beach
Duke Kahanamoku Beach is the first section of the Waikiki coast and the widest part of it. It got its name in honor of the famous Hawaiian athlete and master of canoeing. Now he is known as the “father of modern surfing”. Duke Kahanamoku Beach has an artificial lagoon where you can swim in calm water. From the ocean side, the coast is protected from large waves by a coral reef.
Kahanamoku Beach is part of the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort.
Fort DeRussy Beach Park
Fort DeRussi Beach is a 28—hectare park on the coast of Waikiki. On its territory there is the largest beach in the area and one of the best places for family pastime. It is named after General Rene Edward De Russie, who participated in the Civil War. In the green area of the park there are picnic areas, tennis courts, volleyball courts and play areas for children. The sandy beach itself is suitable for a lazy holiday, and on the water you can do sapboarding or learn how to catch a wave on the surf.
Kapiolani Beach Park
Kapiolani Beach is another part of Waikiki Beach. Across Kalakaua Avenue from it is the regional park of the same name, where the Honolulu Zoo is located. A small number of waves are formed here, which together with the gentle coast makes this place one of the best for family holidays. From the scorching sun, visitors to Kapiolani Beach Park are protected by sprawling palm trees.
Diamond Head
Diamond Head is a crater formed after the eruption of the Koolau volcano. It is located east of Waikiki district. The Diamond Head Crater got its unusual name when in the XIX century English sailors found stones on its bottom and mistook them for diamonds. In fact, it was lime spar. Around the crater is the Diamond Head State Monument Park, with an area of 192 hectares. The Diamond Head Trail leads to the top of the volcano. It was laid out in 1908 as part of the island’s coastal defense system. Its length is only 1.2 kilometers, but the height difference is 170 meters. Guests of the park walk on concrete pavement, gravel, soil and through a 69-meter-long tunnel. Also, tourists will have to overcome several stairs.
Bunkers, a navigation beacon and an artillery fire control station have been preserved on the top. The peak point offers stunning views of Honolulu and Oahu.