The Hawaiian Islands were formed by a chain of volcanic activity over a hotspot in the earth’s mantle and are actually the peaks of a massive undersea mountain range. They include eight major islands as well as a few atolls and smaller islets.
The most populous and third-largest island in the Hawaiian Island chain is Oahu. Between its numerous shopping centers, natural wonders and small group tours though historic locations, Oahu is a must-visit for anyone planning a trip to Hawaii.
Visitors to Oahu can shop in Waikiki, stop by the Dole Plantation or take cycling tours around the island’s famous coastline. Small group tours are available at almost every attraction to engage tourists in local culture and history. Small group tours with local guides across multiple sites are often the best way to get the most out of your experience and find hidden treasures.
The Pearl Harbor tour is one of Oahu’s less hidden treasures and is also one of the most popular tourist destinations in the state. Visitors who can get free tickets for USS Arizona tours are taken by ferry to the memorial that spans the sunken ship, which became the final resting place for 1,177 crewmen who lost their lives in the Dec. 1941 attack that brought the United States into World War II.
Pearl Harbor visitors can also explore the USS Missouri, the battleship-turned-museum that served in several wars and played host to the surrender of the Japanese Empire at the end of World War II. The Pearl Harbor experience also includes the USS Bowfin Submarine and the Aviation Museum on Ford Island.
Another popular travel destination is the Dole Plantation, a working plantation that allows visitors to explore Hawaii’s rich agricultural history.
Of course, though there’s plenty of things to keep you busy on Oahu, tourists are always encouraged to visit other islands to get the full Hawaiian experience.
