OAHU, "the Gathering Place," was formed by volcanoes approximately 4 to 6 million years ago. It is Hawaii's third largest and most populated island. Approximately 75% of Hawaii's residents reside in the Honolulu area. Oahu is also the most visited of the Hawaiian islands as it offers something for everyone. From a cosmopolitan city to great beaches to spectacular scenery and many historical and cultural attractions, Oahu is a symbol of diversity. Whether it's catching some sun at Waikiki Beach, experiencing Polynesian culture at the Polynesian Cultural Center, or taking in history at Pearl Harbor, there is no shortage of things to see and do on Oahu!

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Points of Interest

Polynesian Cultural Center - One of Oahu's most popular tourist attractions, the Polynesian Cultural Center lets you experience the culture of seven South Pacific Islands. Highlights include exhibits and demonstrations in the seven villages, a canoe pageant, Oahu's most authentic luau, and the evening show "Horizons," where over 100 Polynesian performers dressed in their traditional native costumes share their history, traditions and spirit through song, fire, and dance.

Pearl Harbor - One of Hawaii's most visited sights, Pearl Harbor is home to the USS Missouri and the USS Arizona Memorial. The USS Missouri, nicknamed "the Mighty Mo," saw action from World War II to the 1991 Gulf War. Wheelchairs can venture on to the main deck and check out the battleship's 16-inch guns, as well as visit the Surrender Deck, where the Japanese surrender that ended World War II was signed. The USS Arizona was sunk by Japanese warplanes in the infamous 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor. 1,100 men went down with the ship. A memorial has since been built over the sunken ship, which lies beneath only 6 feet of water. A ferry takes people from the visitor center to the memorial, where one can go inside and see the ship's anchor and the names of those who died carved in stone. You can also peer out at the Arizona below, where you can see oil in the water that is still leaking from the ship.

Dole Plantation - Take a ride on the Pineapple Express train and learn about the history of pineapple and agriculture in Hawaii. Also, try to find your way out of the world's largest maze.

Bishop Museum - Founded in 1889, the Bishop Museum contains millions of items and artifacts related to the history of the Hawaiian islands. Highlights include feathered capes of Hawaiian royalty, ceremonial spears, Polynesian art, and the skeleton of a giant sperm whale. There are also daily Hula and Hawaiian craft demonstrations.

Iolani Palace - Completed in 1882, Iolani Palace is America's only royal residence. The palace was home to Hawaii's last two reigning monarchs. Guided tours are available.

Waikiki Beach - One of the most famous beaches in the world, Waikiki Beach stretches for 1.5 miles and is lined with hotels. It is also one of the more accessible beaches around.

Waikiki Aquarium - Features exhibits containing aquatic life from Hawaii and the tropical Pacific.

Hanauma Bay - Oahu's most popular snorkeling spot, Hanauma Bay is actually a volcanic crater with a broken sea wall that allowed the water to come in and create a beautiful beach.

Nu'uanu Pali Lookout - Provides a breathtaking view of the Ko'olau Mountains and the Pacific Ocean on Oahu's windward side. Hold on to your hats, the lookout is one of the island's windiest locations.

Sample Independent Itinerary

Day One - Arrive in Honolulu
Arrive in Honolulu late. Accessible transfer to Waikiki hotel for check-in.

Day Two - Waikiki
Spend your first day in Waikiki independently. Take a stroll down to the International Marketplace for some cheap shopping. On the way, browse through the shops at the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center. In the afternoon, enjoy the sun on beautiful and accessible Waikiki beach. Balance of the evening free.

Day Three - Island Tour
Morning pickup in an accessible coach for a 120-mile trip around the island. Sights you will see along the way include the Hanauma Bay Lookout, Halona Blowhole, Sandy Beach, Makapu'u Point, Makapu'u Lighthouse, Nu'uanu Pali Lookout, Byodo-In Temple, Chinaman's Hat, Kahana Bay, and the North Shore surfing beaches. Return to hotel approximately 5:30 p.m. Evening free.

Day Four - Whale Watch Cruise (mid-December through April only)
Take an accessible coach to Honolulu where you will board a wheelchair accessible boat for a 2.5 hour whale watch cruise. Whale sightings are guaranteed! Lunch included on the cruise. Return to Waikiki. Balance of afternoon and evening free.

Day Five - Pearl Harbor
Board an accessible bus in the morning for a half-day trip to Pearl Harbor. Start off with a visit to the Arizona Memorial and Visitor Center. You will first watch a video about the 1941 Pearl Harbor attack, then take a boat out to the Arizona memorial in the middle of the harbor. Next, head over to the battleship USS Missouri where the armistice ending World War II was signed. Although the inside of the ship is not accessible, the main deck and the Surrender Deck are. On the return to Waikiki you will drive through the downtown area and view the impressive Iolani Palace, the only royal palace on American soil. You will also drive through the Punchbowl National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific before returning to your hotel. The balance of the afternoon and evening are free.

Day Six - Polynesian Cultural Center
Late morning pickup in a wheelchair accessible motorcoach bound for the Polynesian Cultural Center. Tour the different villages on your own and experience the culture of seven South Pacific Islands. Don't miss the Samoan show and the Rainbows of Paradise show (Pageant of the Long Canoes)! For supper, enjoy a traditional luau complete with the tradition of removing the pig from the 'imu' (underground oven), a Polynesian feast, and entertainment by native dancers. In the evening, you will be treated to a 90-minute show that will undoubtedly be the highlight of your visit to the Polynesian Cultural Center. Watch a cast of over 100 Polynesian performers dressed in their traditional native costumes share their history, traditions and spirit through song, fire, and dance the same way their ancestors did. Return to the hotel by 10:30 p.m.

Day Seven - Independent Day
Enjoy your last day in Waikiki independently. Relax at the beach, or head down to the Ala Moana Shopping Center for some shopping. Late in the afternoon, take an accessible coach to Honolulu where you will board a wheelchair accessible boat for a 2 -2.5 hour sunset dinner cruise along the Waikiki coast. Entertainment is provided during the cruise. Return to hotel.

Day Eight - Depart