A Polynesian Paradise with a year-round summer

Honolulu is the Capital of Hawaii, a group of tropical islands in the North Pacific about halfway between Japan and the USA.  It used to be ruled by its indigenous monarchs until it was annexed by the USA in 1959, becoming the 50th State. Its beautiful climate makes it a magnet for holidaymakers often described as “an emerald isle rising out of Cobalt Sea”. Tour the Hawaiian attractions including Pearl Harbour and Waikiki Beach. Explore the rest of the island on which Honolulu sits; take a glider-ride, surfing in a Hawaiian Outrigger, hang-glide, sail and take a diving trip. At night indulge in a sunset cocktail. Honolulu’s exceptional climate encourages outdoor exercise and it has been found to be the fittest city in the USA.

Why go?
Enjoy stunning scenery and meet Hawaiian people whose friendliness is legendary. Watch, or join in on the hula-dancing in the bars. Learn more about Polynesian culture in the museum, climb a volcano, or shop in an open-air retail centre.

When to go?
The temperature doesn’t vary much throughout the year in Hawaii with a fluctuation between 19°C and 32°C. You can watch the spectacular World Fireknife Competition in May. In June, choose between the Pan Pacific Festival, the Hula Competition and the  King Kamehameha festivities for a memorable experience.

How to get there?
Honolulu International Airport (HNL) serves the other Hawaiian Islands and welcomes flights from the USA, Australia, New Zealand, Samoa, Tahiti, The Philippines and Tokyo. If you are staying in Waikiki, look for the Airport Waikiki Express bus; if you are staying in Honolulu itself, catch a city bus or take a taxi.

Must see
Enjoy retail therapy at Ala Moana outdoor shopping centre or at Honolulu’s Chinatown, which is particularly vibrant and colourful. Learn about Polynesian culture and history at Bernica Pallahi Bishop Museum. Visit one of the three Botanical Gardens and tour the Lolani Palace, the royal residence until and now a museum. Walk up the Diamond Head volcano for unsurpassed views. Find out more about Pearl Harbour at the visitor centre aboard the USS Arizona. Wander around the Honolulu Fish Market, visit the Waikiki Aquarium or listen to the delights of a Hawaiian-language religious service at Kawaiahao Church.