The image you hold of Honolulu/Waikiki may not match the reality. This is not the place for a secluded, get away from it all, kind of vacation. In fact, Honolulu is a sprawling, tropical metropolis. Although it has been criticized in the past for being a concrete jungle and losing some of its traditional allure to skyscrapers and pavement, the city of Honolulu has spent precious time and money on revitalization and restoring the natural, exotic beauty that is so unique to Hawaii. So, what do you want to do in Honolulu? Having such a wide variety of landscapes and scenes, Honolulu lends itself to all kinds of activities and adventures. Waikiki Beach is one of the most famous and enchanting beaches in the world with over 1.5 miles of soft, white sand and refreshing Pacific Ocean waters. Waikiki Beach is always busy and full of beach and water activities. This is one of the best places for surfing, especially for beginners as there are rental outfits and lessons available all along the beach. Let one of the local professional instructors teach you how to really ride the waves. How about snorkelling? One of the finest places for snorkelling and scuba diving is Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve. The bay is formed in the crater of an extinct volcano and is filled with coral reef and tropical fish. Underwater enthusiasts will marvel at this unique site.

How about a little action on dry land? Golf is growing more popular in Honolulu everyday. There are plenty of courses springing up around the area but Royal Kunia Golf Club and Ala Wai Golf Club are two of the best. If you want to take in some of the most mesmerizing natural scenery, make the hour and a half hike up to Diamond Head, part of a volcanic mountain range just outside the city. Although the hike is slightly strenuous, the views of the ocean and city simply can’t be put into words. For one of the greatest adventure experiences, check out Ravenchase Adventures, a tour operator that organizes wild treasure hunts and thrilling adventure races. For many travelers, shopping is the ultimate vacation adventure and Honolulu will not disappoint. You will however find things seem pretty expensive here and you really have to search to find a bargain. Your best bet on souvenirs and local goods is the Aloha Stadium Swap Meet, a giant outdoor flea market held on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays. There are so many stalls selling everything including local foods, traditional arts and crafts, clothing and souvenirs. Get your bargaining skills ready. International Marketplace is another great market with over 100 vendors located in a dramatic jungle like setting. It is a little pricier than the Swap Meet but the setting alone makes it worth the visit. Honolulu offers a great number of opportunities to discover its dynamic history, rich culture and natural splendor through museums, memorials, zoos and cultural centres. You should definitely make your way to Pearl Harbour and the USS Arizona Memorial. Pearl Harbour was attacked by the Japanese in 1941 and is the only site of a foreign attack on US soil in the 20th century. The USS Arizona Memorial is a lasting tribute to the soldiers who lost their lives during WWII. A few other places you should make a trip to are the Waikiki Aquarium, the Honolulu Zoo, the Polynesian Cultural Centre and Iolani Palace. If you get the chance, be sure to participate in a luau. They are the best way to enjoy traditional Hawaiian life. Whatever you are looking for in a vacation, Honolulu has something for everyone. Honolulu/Waikiki enjoys a fabulous climate year round. There are only two seasons, the dry season and rainy season. December to March is the rainy season with average temperatures of 68˚to 80˚F. April to November is considered the dry season with average daily temperatures of 75˚to 88˚F. There really is no bad time to make Honolulu your vacation destination.