Western Honolulu incorporates the areas of Downtown Honolulu, Pearl Harbour and Honolulu International Airport in Oahu, Hawaii. The area is abundant with rich history, striking architecture and exciting shopping and dining establishments. Explore the emotive monuments and museums dedicated to Pearl Harbour, the battleships, the botanical gardens, Chinatown and much more.
Many visitors arriving in Western Honolulu are interested in the military history and museums located around Pearl Harbour. Begin the journey with a trip to the Battleship Missouri Memorial. It’s best known as the site where the Second World War ended when the Japanese surrendered to Allied Forces. Visitors are allowed access to the ship to explore the inner workings of the engine rooms, surrender deck and the gun turrets. It’s a fascinating experience and one of the most popular attractions in Oahu. Military historians will enjoy the Pacific Aviation Museum close by, containing a vast hangar of WWII American and Japanese aircraft. One of the most poignant memorials is that of the USS Arizona and the World War II Valour in the Pacific Monument. This iconic floating memorial commemorates the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbour and acts as the final resting place for those who passed. Moving back to Downtown Honolulu, the interactive Science Adventure Centre will keep all the family entertained. Discover the large simulated volcano which erupts" at regular intervals, the planetarium and natural history exhibits relating to the islands. Lively Chinatown is also located in Western Honolulu. It’s quaint art galleries, temples, vibrant nightlife and fabulous dining opportunities will tempt all visitors to the area.
Reaching Western Honolulu is easy, as buses connect Honolulu Airport with downtown and Waikiki. There are also regular buses to Pearl Harbour from Waikiki. Driving and taxis are a stress-free way to get around. Most taxi fares are fixed by the local council which means visitors know how much they will pay each time. It takes approximately 40 minutes to drive from Downtown Honolulu to Pearl Harbour.
Western Honolulu was discovered by European settlers in 1794 when Captain William Brown first sailed into Honolulu Harbour. When further ships arrived, the area became a popular trading post for merchants journeying between North America and Asia. Western Honolulu has had a tumultuous past, with monarchies being overthrown, attacks on Pearl Harbour and even being annexed by the United States. However, today, Western Honolulu thrives, the area attracts millions of tourists each year keen to delve deep into its historical archives and discover more about the island’s fascinating culture and people.
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