Hawaii has a long cultural and historical tradition, and there’s no better island on which to explore it than Oahu, site of Honolulu, the capital, and several of Hawaii’s best museums and historic attractions. When you want to take a break from sun, sand and sea during your Hawaii cruise, here are our picks for the best places to find cultural experiences on Oahu:
The Bishop Museum: Hawaiian history, culture and arts come alive at this longtime favorite Honolulu museum, which first opened its doors in 1889 and is recognized as the Hawaii State Museum of Natural and Cultural History. The museum presents both temporary and permanent exhibits. The latter trace Hawaii’s history from before humans arrived, explore the state’s natural and geological history, and document the diversity of all the people of Oceania. You’ll also find a native garden, a science center, and a Hawaii Sports Hall of Fame. (1525 Bernice St., Honolulu.)
Best Experiences in Oahu During Your Hawaii Cruise. Photo Courtesy of the Bishop Museum
Pearl Harbor: Pay homage to the U.S. soldiers and other military personnel who died at Pearl Harbor during the attack on December 7, 1941, most of them aboard the USS Arizona battleship, sunk by Japanese bombers. It was one of the darkest days in Hawaiian history and the trigger for America’s entry into the Second World \War. You can watch a film with real footage of the attack, and then ride a launch to visit the USS Arizona Memorial, which marks the spot where the battleship sank, claiming more than 1,100 victims. Tickets are free but limited in number, so arrive early, reserve a space online, or book an excursion through your ship. Allow plenty of waiting time. You can also visit the Battleship Missouri Memorial, which was launched in 1944 and was the last battleship built; guided tours run regularly throughout the day.
Best Experiences in Oahu During Your Hawaii Cruise. Photo Courtesy of Battleship Missouri Memorial
There’s a third attraction at Pearl Harbor as well, the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum and Park, featuring a WWII-era submarine, so you can easily spend a full day there. It’s located about 11 miles from Waikiki.
Best Experiences in Oahu During Your Hawaii Cruise. Photo Courtesy of USS Bowfin Submarine Museum and Park
The Iolani Palace: Built in 1882, this opulent palace was the last official residence of Hawaii’s monarchy, King Kalakaua and his sister Queen Liliuokalani, who succeeded him on the throne. The palace has been completely restored to its original grandeur, and is a National Historic Landmark. It’s at 364 S. King St. in downtown Honolulu. If you want to visit another royal palace on the island, the Queen Emma Summer Palace, used by the wife of King Kamehameha IV, is also open to visitors and is on the Palo Highway.
The Polynesian Cultural Center: This popular attraction an hour’s drive northeast of Honolulu showcases the Polynesian cultures that first came to the islands centuries ago and still make up much of its population. During the day, tour native Pacific island villages ranging across Polynesia from New Zealand to Rapa Nui and discover their traditions, and at night enjoy a luau feast of Hawaiian specialties followed by a Polynesian spectacle with dancing and drumming. It’s located along King Kamehameha Highway.
Photo Courtesy of the Polynesian Cultural Center
To book your cruise to Hawaii and take advantage of all the islands have to offer, call our expert agents today at 1-888-804-CRUIse(2784). , visit us at www.cruiseexperts.com or email us at info@cruiseexperts.com to find out the best deals for Hawaii.
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