Honolulu cruises

For those whose thoughts of Hawaii invoke dreams of paradise beaches and laidback life, Honolulu – with it’s skyscrapers, office blocks and commercial districts – may come as a bit of a surprise. The state’s cosmopolitan capital, Honolulu is at the very heart of Hawaii’s industry and commerce, and in some ways is typical of many U.S cities.

That is not to say that visitors should be disappointed by Honolulu though, far from it. This is Hawaii after all, and so this bustling city is of course situated amongst some of the most spectacular scenery you could ever wish to discover. Where the Pacific Ocean laps the shore, mile-upon-mile of warm, inviting sands – encompassing the world-famous Waikiki Beach – provide an escape from the hustle and bustle, while views of surrounding volcanic peaks such as Diamond Head and lush forested landscapes entice you into exploring magical Oahu Island further.

Within the city itself, there are plenty of authentically Hawaiian experiences to be had; you can wander through the fascinating Chinatown, following in the footsteps of 19^th century whalers and immigrant traders, take in landmarks such as Aloha Tower and impressive Victorian-era buildings, and meet the locals at the world’s largest open-air shopping centre. You’ll find museums and galleries aplenty too, while the iconic Pearl Harbour Memorial is also within reach.