Discover Honolulu: History, Landmarks, Dining and Shopping
Honolulu is the capital of the state of Hawaii and is located on the southeastern shore of the island of Oahu. With a city-county area of 597 square miles, Honolulu is the commercial and industrial center of the state and is home to 80% of Hawaii’s population. The city-county includes Oahu and some outlying islets, forming the Hawaiian and Pacific Islands National Wildlife Refuge.
History of Honolulu
People first settled in Honolulu 1100 years ago, according to Hawaiian legend. The city flourished as a base for sandalwood traders and whalers and was declared a city and the kingdom’s capital by King Kamehameha III in 1850. The city was the site of the Japanese aerial attack in 1941 and was a prime staging area for World War II and other conflicts.
Pearl Harbor
Pearl Harbor is located on the western shore of Oahu and is the site of the 1941 attack by the Japanese that led the US to enter World War II. Today, Pearl Harbor is a National Historical Landmark and the home of the USS Arizona Memorial, which honors the 1,177 sailors and Marines who lost their lives during the attack. Visitors can also tour the USS Missouri Memorial and the Pacific Aviation Museum.
Economy of Honolulu
The port of Honolulu serves numerous manufacturing plants and has an international airport, one of the busiest in the US. Waikiki is the primary tourist destination and offers a range of activities and attractions, such as shopping, dining, and beach activities.
Population of Honolulu
The population of the City and County of Honolulu in 2020 was 350,964, with the Urban Honolulu Metro Area having 1,016,508 people. The population increased by 4.8% between 1990 and 2000.
Overview of Honolulu
Honolulu is a mix of historic landmarks, fine dining, and world-class shopping. It is home to most of Oahu’s population and stretches from Pearl Harbor to Makapuu Point with Waikiki Beach.
Downtown Honolulu
Downtown Honolulu is the historic center for government and business which is a perfect place for a leisure walking tour. Important landmarks include the Iolani Palace, King Kamehameha statue, Kawaiahao Church, Aloha Tower, and the seat of Hawaii’s government.
Honolulu Shopping
Honolulu is a shopper’s paradise with everything from Hawaiian handicrafts to high-end fashion labels. Waikiki Shopping centers like DFS Galleria, Royal Hawaiian Center, and Waikiki Beach Walk offer a range of Hawaiian arts and crafts, high-end fashion labels, and souvenirs. Ala Moana Center is the largest shopping center in Hawaii, with over 290 stores and restaurants.
Waikiki Beach
Waikiki Beach is one of the most famous beaches in the world and a destination for tourists and locals alike. It offers a variety of water activities, like surfing, snorkeling, and paddleboarding, as well as beach volleyball and sunbathing. The beach is also surrounded by hotels, restaurants, and shopping centers, making it a convenient and accessible place to enjoy the sun and sea.
Conclusion
Honolulu is a city of great history, culture, and attractions, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler. Honolulu offers everything, from shopping, dining, and beach activities to historic landmarks, Pearl Harbor, and more.