Insider Guide: Best of Honolulu

We won't promise seclusion in Waikiki, but romance in the shadow of Diamond Head is still one of Honoulu's great thrills. 
 
Four of the most glorious words in the travel lexicon?

“We’re going to Hawaii!”

For many travelers to America’s 50th state, that means at least a stop in the capital of Honolulu, a city of nearly a million residents on the lush island of Oahu.Despite its epic popularity, the best of Honolulu still fulfills the Pacific promise of easy breezes, slow days, perfect beaches and lots of flowery drinks and shirts.

What may come as a surprise are the twists recently added to some familiar island icons.Recent years have seen major refurbishments at many hotels along the famed beach of Waikiki.

New decor.
New bathrooms.
New spas.
Some beachfront hotels have even built new pools.

And the visitors?

While the usual travelers from North America and Asia still crowd the beaches, a recent influx of Aussies means you just might hear the guy on the next beach towel say, “Mate, can you chuck us me thongs?” (In Australia, flip-flops are called “thongs.”)The world’s busiest holiday playground is offering an updated approach to sand and surf, and the best of Honolulu is the gateway to it all.