Honolulu - Oahu

Of all the Hawaiian islands, Oahu blends metropolitan luxury with magnificent scenery, creating one of the best family beach vacations in the U.S. Honolulu, the state's capital, exemplifies the island's metropolitan attraction. Numerous cultural and historic monuments are close by, ranging from the grandiose Iolani Palace to the somber USS Arizona Memorial at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial. Wide-open white sand beaches contrast with a skyline of high-rises and resorts in the surrounding Waikiki district. Visit the North Shore for a sample of the island's rustic life. The most brilliantly blue seas and winding walks may be found here. But Oahu has more must-see locations than just those three. The island's top-notch dining establishments, exciting cultural activities, and crazy nightlife further highlight it as a "gathering place" for Hawaiian culture.

Mid-April to early June or between September and mid-December are the ideal times to explore Oahu. In addition to events being plentiful and attractions being less crowded during these shoulder seasons, hotel and flight costs are also at their lowest. The year-round temperature ranges from the mid-60s to the high 80s, but during Oahu's summer months (mid-June to August), when rain showers are less frequent, travelers swarm to the island to enjoy the sunny weather. Another popular (and pricey) time to visit is between late December and early April when surfers flock to the North Shore to catch waves or watch pros compete in various surfing tournaments.

Despite the fact that Oahu is home to numerous well-known American chains, you should try some local cuisine while there. Shave ice, a cool delight flavored with exotic ingredients like coconut and passion fruit, and poke are two delicacies you must try (or marinated raw seafood). Many restaurants also offer a few Asian-inspired bites, like beef teriyaki and kalbi (or Korean barbecue short ribs), as part of plate lunch or on their own. Local specialties include kalua pork, which is traditionally wrapped in banana leaves and cooked underground, and loco moco, which is white rice topped with a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and brown gravy. Plate lunches frequently include rice, macaroni salad, and one or two proteins.

Location: Honolulu County, Hawaii, U.S.

Ranking:

• #3 in Best Places to Visit in September
• #4 in Best Family Winter Vacations
• #4 in Best Family Spring Break Destinations
• #5 in Best Beaches in the U.S.
• #5 in Best Hawaiian Islands
• #6 in Best Winter Vacations
• #7 in Best Places to Visit in the USA
• #7 in Best Family Beach Vacations in the U.S.
• #8 in Best Christmas Vacations