On December 7, 1941, the battleship USS Arizona was sunk, taking 1100 sailors with it. In 1961, a solemn white monument was erected above the midsection of the ship. The deck of the Arizona lies now six feet (1.83 meters) below the surface of Pearl Harbor and is clearly visible from the monument. Take the shuttle launch from shore to the monument and view the dark shape of a once-great ship with its silent crew. Free guided tours are offered 8a-1p daily. Visit the Battleship Missouri Memorial afterward.
This Pearl Harbor memorial park is dedicated to World War II submarines and their valiant crews. The park takes its name from a particularly distinguished sub, the USS Bowfin SS-287. Tour the narrow corridors and compartments where the crew worked, ate, and slept on nine hazardous missions. In addition to the Bowfin exhibit, there is a waterfront memorial. Also visit the Battleship Arizona and Missouri memorials.
When an unexpected military attack initiated by the Japanese Navy Air Service on America's naval base in Pearl Harbor jolted the entire nation, it spurred the United States' entry into World War II, thus changing the history of the world as people knew it. The attack caused subsequent world-changing events, and rendered this naval base in Hawaiʻi a crucial part of American history and heritage. Today, Pearl Harbor is dominated by five historic sites that serve as solemn reminders of this day in American history. The USS Arizona Memorial, Battleship Missouri Memorial, USS Bowfin Submarine Museum Park, USS Oklahoma Memorial and the Pacific Aviation Museum are all part of the site of this war incident. The USS Arizona Memorial in particular pays homage to the sunken vessel.
Located just a few short blocks from Waikiki Beach, this is a great place to learn about Hawaii's amazing ocean world. You can see 400 different species of aquatic life at this small but mighty museum, including monk seals, sharks and sea turtles. A knowledgeable staff is on hand to narrate tours and answer questions. The aquarium has a good gift shop where you can ask about special events and excursions. It offers some terrific educational and community outreach programs.
On this lush 400-acre (161.8-hectare) preserve, all of the world's foremost tropical regions are grouped geographically. A staggering variety of rare and endangered plants thrive here, with particular emphasis placed on native Hawaiian flora. Facilities include hiking trails, campgrounds, a visitor center and a lake. A variety of educational programs such as guided nature hikes are offered. Camping is allowed on weekend nights (Friday through Sunday).
All that is left of the vast Dole Plantation is a pictorial display of the pineapple's history and a country store that offers fresh pineapples and gifts. In the back, nearly two acres of rich, red earth have been turned into one of the world's largest mazes with a path 1.7 miles long. It is built from 11,400 tropical plants, including hibiscus and fragrant plumeria; in the center is a garden in the form of a golden pineapple. Try their fresh pineapple ice cream on your way out.
Established in 1981, this non-profit organization has the sole purpose of spreading the environmental gospel to residents and visitors of the Hawaiian Islands. Almost entirely volunteer-operated, the center facilitates hands-on environmental education for school children, families and the general public. Particular emphasis is placed on the importance of educating children. Hopefully, with a change in the attitudes of youth toward nature, the future of the environment stands a chance. There is a gift shop on-site.
As one of the largest ocean activity providers on the island, Hawaii Nautical is your go-to for unforgettable adventures and memories that will last a lifetime. Hop aboard one of their vessels and get ready to dive into the crystal clear waters to discover the beautiful marine animals that call Hawaii home. From snorkeling with turtles through coral reefs, sunset sailing dinner cruises, whale and dolphin watching, to private charters, scuba diving, and fireworks, Hawaii Nautical has activities for the whole family to enjoy. This ocean adventure company operates out of various harbors on the island, so you'll be sure to find one close to you. Check out the website or give them a call to learn more about the seemingly endless options of seafaring fun.
On December 7, 1941, the battleship USS Arizona was sunk, taking 1100 sailors with it. In 1961, a solemn white monument was erected above the midsection of the ship. The deck of the Arizona lies now six feet (1.83 meters) below the surface of Pearl Harbor and is clearly visible from the monument. Take the shuttle launch from shore to the monument and view the dark shape of a once-great ship with its silent crew. Free guided tours are offered 8a-1p daily. Visit the Battleship Missouri Memorial afterward.
Ali'iolani Hale is an important historical building in downtown Honolulu; originally designated as a royal palace, it was completed in 1874, and currently houses the Judiciary History Center of Hawaii. The structure is modeled on the architecture of the Italian Renaissance masters, and a golden statue of King Kamahameha I has been placed in the lawn. The Center is the hub of legal activity and education, and is open to the general public. Other government offices are also housed alongside it in Ali'iolani Hale.
Located on the second floor of the Chinese Cultural Plaza, this place is a bit of a hidden treasure. Several exhibits of Chinese art are displayed, ranging from traditional formal dress to ornate screens. Films play in a room to the side. The staff here consists of one mild-mannered security guard whose job it is to sign people in and out. Any questions can be addressed to the tourism office, located a few doors down.
Built by the late heiress Doris Duke, this mansion is located in a gorgeous setting near Diamond Head. Influenced by Islam and other prevalent cultures from all across the globe, Shangri La is filled with items Duke collected over her life from the countries she visited with her husband, American diplomat James Cromwell. Now owned by the Doris Duke Foundation for Islamic Art (DDFIA), you can take a guided tour of the five-acre complex. Please check the website for further details.