While hula-clad dancers, sun-kissed beaches and killer surf shape Oahu's image, this island has all this and much more: The downtown district of Honolulu, the most populous city, features many of the island's finest landmarks, such as the Aloha Tower and the Iolani Palace, and it is also home to some of Honolulu’s finest restaurants and cultural institutions.
Nearby, Chinatown is one of the most interesting and vibrant areas, where you will find beautiful temples, cutting-edge cultural and entertainment venues, a fine array of restaurants as well as some Chinese herbal and medicinal shops that sell a range of cure-alls.
To the North of the city, Pearl Harbor reminds of the Japanese surprise attack that led to the American intervention in World War II.
To the East, the famous suburb of Waikiki awaits with its beautiful beaches, pounding surf, resort hotels, bars, and restaurants. Manoa, Hawaii's university town, is a tranquil yet beautiful suburb tucked in between the mountains and towering above everything, while Diamond Head dominates the impressive skyline over all.