There's more to see and do in Honolulu than laze on Waikiki beach (although there's nothing wrong with that!).
If you plan to go sightseeing in Honolulu, these are the top sights to tour.
1. USS Missouri, Arizona Memorial and Pearl Harbor
The attack on Pearl Harbor by the Japanese in 1941 sunk the USS Arizona and brought the United States into World War II. Highlight of this historic sightseeing tour are stops at the Arizona Memorial, the battleship USS Missouri, and the Punchbowl National Cemetery of the Pacific. You also will see Iolani Palace, Kawaiahao Church, the King Kamehameha statue, the Mission Houses Museum, and the magnificent banyan trees of downtown Honolulu.
2. Polynesian Cultural Center
Yes, it's corny and yes, you're bound to encounter lots of kids at this Honolulu attraction. But if you're only planning to pass through Honolulu once, you may kick yourself if you don't visit the Polynesian Cultural Center. The 42-acre site contains 7 island "villages" that showcase the indigenous cultures of Polynesian Hawaii, Samoa, the Marquesas, Fiji, New Zealand, Tahiti, and Tonga.
3. Parasailing on Maunalua Bay
Soar through the air, over the sapphire waters of Waikiki, an open parachute on your back. Preliminary to going up, you can board a parasail boat operated by an experienced crew licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard. The float in the sky up to 300 feet, taking in views of Honolulu, Diamond Head, and Waikiki surfers -- if you keep your eyes open.
4. Honolulu to Maui One-Day Tour
Whether your schedule or your budget keeps you from combining a stay on Maui with your visit to Honolulu, you can still experience the beauty and wonder of this island. Honolulu to Maui tours lead you to the famed 10,023-foot summit of Haleakala volcano, Iao Valley State Park, and into Lahaina, the capital of Maui.
5. Honolulu to Kauai One-Day Tour
If your schedule or budget keeps you from combining a stay on Kauai, the Garden Isle, with your visit to Honolulu, you can still experience this verdant island. Honolulu to Kauai one-day tours cover the romantic Fern Grotto, the breathtakingly beautiful Waimea Canyon, popular Poipu, and more.
6. Honolulu to the Big Island One-Day Tour
Want to see a volcano, up close? Even if plans keep you from combining a stay on the Big Island with your visit to Honolulu, you can still experience Hawaii. Honolulu to the Big Island tours generally cover Volcanos National Park, the town of Hilo, Rainbow Falls, and more.
7. Diamond Head Crater Sunrise Adventure
You can see the majestic 760 foot Diamond Head from just about anywhere in Waikiki, but there's nothing like seeing it up close. At the summit, 360-degree views -- and one of the world's most romantic spots to kiss -- await.
Tags : Tours, Hawaii, Vacation, Adventure