Where is Honolulu? The American State of Hawaii in the middle of the Pacific Ocean comprises of eight main islands. Niihau, Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Kohoolawe, Maui and the big Island of Hawaii.

The state capital is Honolulu. It is the most visited city in the State of Hawaii. Honolulu is in the South of the island of Oahu. Most people have heard the name of long golden sand Honolulu beach, Waikiki beach. This is the place I recommend you start your holiday in Hawaii.

The area to find accommodation is north west of Honolulu Zoo and south of Ala Wai Blvd. This whole area is known a Waikiki. It has a holiday atmosphere. The two long roads that go the length of Waikiki called Kalakaua Ave and Kuhio Ave contain most of the shopping area. There is always lots to see and do.

It is at night that this section of Honolulu really comes to life. There are lots of market stalls that stay open. Different shopping malls and markets put on free Hawaiian Hula Hula traditional dance exhibitions to bring in the tourists. The street food is good. Because of the mix of cultures you can eat food from around the world. My teenage daughters loved all the beach clothing outlets and the ice cream parlours.

It is the golden sandy beach of Waikiki, the gentle surfing conditions and the attractive palm tree coast with magnificent views of the dramatic extinct volcano of Diamond Head that draws in the tourists. What I did not realise is that the sand was imported from California up until the 1970's. The natural sand would be volcanic black in colour. Now modern anti wave action erosion features are in place to protect the beach.

It was the Hawaiian Royal Family who loved surfing and the beach that encouraged the development of Honolulu and Waikiki. The built a Summer house in Waikiki. In 1880 guest houses started to appear to cater for the increase in visitor numbers. Forty years later swamps and marshes were drained to make new land so that hotels could be built.

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