Hawaii's cultural and state capital is a cosmopolitan brew frothed with surf.
Despite Honolulu's skyscrapers and traffic jams, it's one of the most laid-back urban centers in America. Add sandy beaches, waving palms and the balmy weather of Waikiki and you've got a great mix of sun-fun and culture, best enjoyed with a multiethnic plate lunch.
It might be part of the USA, but tropical Honolulu is more laid-back than any mainland capital. With its blend of sunny charm and legislative gravitas, the downtown area is surprisingly fascinating to explore - make the effort to drag yourself away from the Gidget-and-mai-tai scene of Waikiki.
Restrictions on airline carry-on baggage are in place throughout the US. For details check the Transport Security Administration website.
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Download the free Getting Started chapter or buy individual chapters from our USA guide, in our online Shop.
› Go to the USA download page.
article by jake Howard, August 2008
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Tags: Outdoors • Relaxation • Hawaii • Honolulu & Waikiki
interactive by jake Howard, August 2008
You've got your board, you're ready to surf, but which beach is going to give you the waves you want? Just clicky here. Read the full article ›
Tags: Sports • Island & Beaches • Water Sports • Outdoors • Hawaii • Honolulu & Waikiki
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