Attractions in Downtown/Honolulu Harbor (Honolulu)

Iolani Palace

Built in 1882 by Hawaii's last king, David Kalakaua, this stately old three-story building is a real treat to tour. After the overthrow of the King's sister Queen Liliuokalani in 1893, the structure served as the territorial and state capitol until 1969. The Palace Galleries showcases jewels and regalia from the days of Hawaiian royalty. Guided tours are offered every 30 minutes and reservations are suggested.

Star of Honolulu Dinner Cruise

Hula dancers greet each sunset sailor as passengers depart on the largest of the local cruise ships, The Star of Honolulu. Visitors cruise off Oahu's leeward shore as the sun sinks below the horizon and the twinkling lights of Honolulu and Waikiki emerge in the dusk. There is always a live band and singers. Dine on a feast of steak and crab legs with a complimentary tropical cocktail. Prices for The Sunset Dinner cruise start at USD66 for adults and USD33 for children.

Honolulu Hale

This graceful pink, tile-roofed California-Spanish mission style structure built in 1929 is Honolulu's City Hall. 'Hale' (pronounced HA-lay) means "house" in Hawaiian. The open interior courtyard is patterned after the Bargello, a 13th century palace in Florence, Italy. Public space in the high-ceilinged lobby is often used for art exhibits, concerts and other public events. Between mid-December and the beginning of January, huge statues of Santa and Mrs. Claus in Hawaiian attire, penguins, reindeer and other winter decorations cavort across the expansive lawn and fountains. Admission is free.

Thomas Square

All kinds of events, large and small, are held at this small downtown park. While certainly not the largest of Hawaii's parks, it is the oldest of Honolulu's community parks, and has long been the site of community gatherings and festivities. Events such as the Pacific Handcrafters Annual Christmas Craft Fair and the Intertribal Pow Wow are held here annually. The park is across from the Honolulu Academy of Art in the heart of the city.

Dream Cruises Hawaii

This company offers a variety of entertaining cruises in the waters off Honolulu and beyond. Its most popular activity is the Pacific Splash Barefoot Fun Cruise, which lasts or about three hours. Dolphin-watching cruises depart each morning and whale-watching cruises happen several times a day during the winter (December 15 through April 30). Sunset dinner cruises and extended voyages are also available.

Island Seaplane Service

Located just adjacent to Honolulu International Airport, this service allows visitors to see Honolulu and the island of O'ahu from high above. Owner/Pilot Pat Magie and his wife Debbie own two sturdy DeHavilland "Beavers." They take off and land in beautiful Ke'ehi lagoon, providing views of the Koolau and Waianae mountain ranges, the exquisite beaches on all sides of the island and dramatic Diamond Head reigning over Waikiki Beach. Prices start at USD119 per person for a 1/2 hour flight and USD220 per person for a one hour tour. A complimentary van services several stops in Waikiki.

National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, Punchbowl

This is the final resting place for 34,000 veterans of World War I, World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War, as well as Challenger casualty Ellison Onizuka. Marble walls flanking the monumental staircase list the names of American heroes missing in action. A 30-foot statue of Lady Columbia symbolizes all grieving mothers. There is a sweeping view of Diamond Head to the glistening bays of Pearl Harbor. In ancient times, the crater of the long-dormant volcano served as a site of human sacrifices. Admission is free.

Ali'i Kai Catamaran

Enjoy some of Hawaii's most famous sights, sounds and tastes aboard this large Polynesian catamaran. For USD55 adults and USD33 children 4-11, you get an all-you-can-eat dinner buffet, a mixed drink, live entertainment and round-trip transportation from Waikiki Beach. Dinner, show packages and cruise upgrades are available, starting at USD68 for adults and USD54 for kids. Of course, no matter what trip you take, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of Oahu's coastline at sunset.

Kato Golf Tours

Primarily catering to Japanese tourists, Kato Golf Tours arranges golfing packages at the many renowned courses in Oahu. Whether you're a businessman with a few extra days on the island or a newcomer to the zen of golf, Kato Tours can arrange your perfect day on the green. The company takes all the hassles out of setting up tee times, arranging partners and coordinating transportation. It also provides information on all of the golf courses on the island.

Sierra Club

The Hawai'i chapter of this world-famous environmental organization was formed in response to the environmental threat caused by tourism and urban development throughout the islands. It is involved in all aspects of island ecology, with a mission to assist in the preservation of flora, fauna and ocean creatures. Sierra Club's mission and policy statements are extensive and thorough, and can be read on the Sierra Club Web site. Call or check the site for information on upcoming hikes and other events.

Pacific Splash by Dream Cruises

Touted as a Barefoot Fun Cruise, this adventure is perfect for just about any age. It starts off with a mellow ocean cruise. Later in the day, the ship moors in a secluded cove. Passengers can snorkel and swim in the blue ocean waters; a waterslide and water trampoline are provided. Hamburgers, hot dogs, teriyaki chicken, vegetables and fruit are served during the lunch cruise. The morning cruise, which features a full American style breakfast, is less expensive.

Tradewind Charters

All kinds of private charters are available through this company. Half-day and full-day fishing excursions and snorkeling cruises are available year-round. Whale-watching excursions are offered from December through May. Special charters include overnighters, wedding ceremonies, renewal of vows and memorial services.