The island of O'ahu is ideal for those who love the sophistication of the city but yearn for the pleasures of nature's most abundant beauty. Honolulu, the nation's 11th largest city, is found here, where residents are never more than a glimpse away from a breathtaking ocean or mountain view.

Hawai'i's last kings and queens ruled from 'Iolani Palace in downtown Honolulu. Today, 'Iolani stands as an elegant tribute to Hawai'i's rich history as a kingdom, republic, territory, and state. Even in the days of royalty, the virtues of Waikiki as a vacation destination were recognized. Long processions of ali'i (nobility) made their way across streams and swamps, past the duck ponds, to the coconut groves and the beach.