Until the Europeans came,
HONOLULU
was insignificant; soon so many foreign ships were frequenting its waters that it had become Kamehameha's capital, and it remains the economic center of the island. The city covers a long (if narrow) strip of southern Oahu, but
downtown
is a manageable size, and a lot quieter than its glamorous image might suggest. The tourist hotels, and most of Honolulu's hustle, are concentrated among the skyscrapers of very distinct
WAIKIKI
, a couple of miles east.
Arrival And Information :
The runways of Honolulu's
International Airport
, just west of downtown, extend out to sea on a coral reef.
Car rental
outlets abound, but a car is not especially desirable in Honolulu, what with city traffic and hefty parking fees in Waikiki. The Waikiki Airport Express (one-way $8, round-trip $13; tel 808/566-7333) is typical of the many
shuttle services
that run on request to any Waikiki hotel. Regular buses
#19
and
#20
connect Waikiki with the airport, but don't allow large bags, cases or backpacks (there are left-luggage lockers at the airport). A
taxi
will cost around $20. The nine-mile - not at all scenic - drive to Waikiki can take anywhere from 25 to 75 minutes. More Honolulu information...
SITUATED ON WAIKIKI BEACH / HONOLULU Enjoy a genuine seaside experience and luxurious condominium living on world-famous Waikiki Beach. Waikiki Shore is truly a one-of-a-kind property with activities and entertainment abound.
BEACHFRONT WAIKIKI / HONOLULU The Sheraton Waikiki Hotel is centrally located on the world-famous Waikiki Beach on the island of Oahu. It sits directly on a half-mile of sun-blushed sand, with a majestic view of Diamond Head.
WAIKIKI BEACH ACROSS STREET / HONOLULU Elegance surrounds you at this luxurious condominium resort overlooking Waikiki Beach, where the emphasis is on personal service] The property offers valet parking, 24-hour security, twice daily maid