Situated at the southern end of Oahu, Honolulu is the capital of Hawaii, but the state wasn't always a part of the United States. Hawaii was a monarchy until 1893, and Iolani Palace was the residence of the last Hawaiian King and Queen. In fact, it's the only royal palace on U.S. soil. Declared a National Historic Landmark and fully restored, guided tours are available to the public.

For another glimpse into the life of the former royal family, The Bishop Museum displays many of their possessions. Considered to be the best Polynesian anthropological museum in the world, the Bishop showcases many rare artifacts and is the home of Hawaii's only planetarium. The Polynesian Cultural Center is a popular stop for families, featuring shows, demonstrations and handicrafts native to various Pacific Island cultures.

One of the best known landmarks in the Pacific is Diamond Head, a 760 ft. volcanic crater that offers a stunning view of Oahu's southeastern coastline to those willing to hike to the rim. Diamond Head also provides a memorable backdrop for Waikiki Beach, the most visited stretch of sand in the Hawaiian archipelago. The 2-mile long, white sand beach boasts warm, clear waters and beautiful sunsets in addition to swimming, surfing, and paddling outrigger canoes. Visitors can also experience traditional Hawaiian luaus and hula-dancing demonstrations sponsored by Waikiki hotels and tourist centers.

The Waikiki Aquarium is one of the oldest public aquariums in the country. Built next to a living reef off the coast, the facility researches the marine life of Hawaii and the tropical Pacific. It also features exhibits and educational programs open to the public. Family favorite Sea Life Park offers a variety of activities designed to bring people and marine mammals closer together - literally! Guests can swim with dolphins, feed sea lions and scuba dive with sharks. It's guaranteed to be a once in a lifetime experience!

Before leaving the island, be sure to visit Pearl Harbor and see the Arizona Memorial and Battleship Missouri Memorial. The floating Arizona Memorial was built to remember those who died during the 1941 Pearl Harbor attack, which launched America into World War II. Docked beside the Arizona Memorial is the decommissioned Battleship Missouri, where the peace agreement between the U.S. and Japan was signed at the end of the war.

First time visitors will find Honolulu lives up to its reputation as a tropical paradise, complete with beautiful scenery and balmy weather. But they'll also discover a city with a unique blend of Polynesian, Asian and American influences that make it much more than a typical beach vacation.