Often referred to as “The Gathering Place,” the island of Oahu is known as a world-famous tourist destination. Its warm climate, beautiful beaches, and friendly atmosphere make it an ideal vacation for any traveler. One could spend weeks exploring this beautiful island, unfortunately most of us don’t have that much vacation time. Though every visit to Oahu is a memorable one, here are some sites that will make your visit even more worthwhile.

USS Arizona Memorial

This historical landmark and memorial is dedicated to the U.S. involvement in World War II. Pearl Harbor consists of various sites which all have great historic significance. The most popular attraction, the U.S.S. Arizona Memorial is free to the public. It includes a 23 minute video reenactment of the attack and a boat ride out to the memorial. Over 5,000 people visit the memorial each day. Although admission to the memorial is free, tickets are available on a first come first serve basis so we recommend you arrive early. No backpacks or purses are allowed at the memorial, but you are encouraged to bring your camera.

Polynesian Cultural Center

Located one hour from Waikiki near Oahu’s legendary North Shore, the Polynesian Cultural Center is the most popular paid attraction in Hawaii. The center is made up of seven different villages all paying tribute to Polynesia’s culture and traditions. The cultures of Samoa, Aotearoa (New Zealand), Fiji, Hawaii, Marquesas, Tahiti, Tonga, and a Rapa Nui (Easter Island) exhibit can all be experienced here. Enjoy spear throwing, fire walking, tree climbing, tattoos, Haka dancing, coconut husking, wood and tiki carving and fire starting. Each village has something distinct to educate each visitor of its history. The center also provides information on the Cook Islands, Niue, the Tuamotu Archipelago, Tuvalu, Wallis, and Futuna. The PCC also hosts Hawaii’s most authentic luau and the world’s largest Polynesian night show, “Horizons: Where the Sea Meets the Sky.” The IMAX Polynesia theatre and the Rainbows of Paradise Canoe Pageant show are also something you won’t want to miss. Reservations are not required but are highly recommended. Guests without reservations may not be able to experience all that the Polynesian Cultural Center has to offer.

Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve

With its calm waters and abundant marine life, there’s no wonder why this nature preserve is known throughout the island as an active and popular spot for marine life sightings. Created by a series of volcanic explosions over 32,000 years ago, the bay is actually a flooded crater surrounded by several cratered cones.  The sea life here is unmatched. You can bring your own snorkel equipment or rent it when you get there. Visit the educational center before your snorkel experience to gain more information on the different types of marine life you will see on your visit. Since Hanauma Bay is a nature preserve and not a beach park, only a certain amount of visitors are allowed here each day. The preserve is closed every Tuesday and has strict hours. In the summer months, the bay is closed on the first and third Saturday of the month. In the winter, they remain open on the second Saturday of the month only. These hours have been set to protect the area and sea life that reside here. There is a $1.00 fee for parking and an entrance fee of $5.00 per person.

Diamond Head Crater

Diamond Head crater was created over 500,000 years ago as a result of a volcanic explosion. From its 760 foot summit, you will experience breathtaking views of Honolulu and the Pacific Ocean. The .7 miles up Diamond Head is fairly easy, about an hour and well worth the short hike. This crater was formerly home to Fort Ruger, a fort used for harbor defense in the early 1900s soon after Hawaii was annexed as a state. You can see what remains of the fort today. Though the hike up Diamond Head is classified as an easy to moderate one, there is no shade so bring lots of sunscreen and water. Plan to hike early to avoid the crowds as well. The views from atop this extinct volcano are unmatched and as soon as you experience Diamond Head crater, you will see for yourself why it is so popular.

Iolani Palace

Iolani Palace is the perfect place to experience the vibrant history of Oahu. This grand building is the only official state residence of royalty in the entire United States. Originally built in 1882 for King Kalakaua, this palace later became the residence of his sister Queen Lili`uokalani after his death and remains a lasting symbol of Hawaiian history and heritage. It is conveniently located in downtown Honolulu and is open Tuesday-Saturday, with hours varying depending on the time of year. There are several tour options available to you when visiting the palace. You can take a guided tour, audio tour or a gallery tour. It is recommended to take a guided tour to get the full history of the palace. You are welcome to take any photos of the grounds and building exterior but are not allowed to take any photos inside the palace due to its fragile state. This beautifully restored palace should definitely be on your list of things to see when visiting Oahu.