Learn Local Culture
If you want to understand a little more about Hawaiian culture, the Polynesian Cultural Center, a 42-acre facility in Oahu, is your best bet. You'll find recreated villages, traditional arts and crafts, hands-on exhibits and even an all-you-can-eat buffet featuring traditional food. After a few hours exploring the center, head to the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center for free ukulele and hula lessons.
Polynesian Cultural Center
55-370 Kamehameha Highway
Laie, HI 96762
(800) 367-7060
www.polynesia.com
Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center
2201 Kalakaua Avenue
Honolulu, HI, 96815
(808) 922-2299
www.royalhawaiiancenter.com
Explore the Beaches
Since all of Hawaii's beaches are free, it would be almost a crime not to enjoy as many of them as possible. For sunbathing, swimming and snorkeling in clean water or on beautiful sand, almost every beach in the islands will do.
If you're a beginner surfer or traveling with kids and looking for calm waters, head to tranquil Kapalua Bay Beach in Maui. Hulopoe Beach, in Lanai, is an ideal destination if you're looking for seclusion and rest. Kaanapali (Black Rock Beach), in Maui, is the perfect destination if you're looking to shop, dine and enjoy a night on the town. Finally, if you're looking to try windsurfing, scuba diving or boating, Hanalei Bay Beach in Kauai has a large pier and plenty of companies that offer tours and rentals.
10 Best Beaches In Hawaii
www.bestplaceshawaii.com/tips/10_best/beaches.html
Explore Hawaii's History
Hawaii's Pearl Harbor Memorial is a must-see. Built over the sunken USS Arizona, this floating monument can be reached by boat. Visitors should first stop at the visitor's center (on the mainland) to watch a 30-minute documentary on the sinking of the ship and the Pearl Harbor attack before embarking on the short ride to the floating gallery, where plaques recount the event in detail. Free tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis from the visitor's center.
Right across the street from the visitor's center is the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum and Park, where visitors can see missiles, weapons and war memorabilia.
USS Arizona Memorial
1 Arizona Memorial Place
Honolulu, HI 96818
(808) 422-2771
www.arizonamemorial.org
About The Author
Sarah Dray has been writing since 1996. She specializes in health, wellness and travel topics and has credits in various publications, including "Woman's Day," "Marie Claire," "Adirondack Life" and "Self." She is also a seasoned independent traveler and a certified personal trainer and nutrition consultant. Dray is pursuing a criminal justice degree at Penn Foster College.
