Hawaii

Whale watching is one of Hawaii's most popular attractions. And there are ample opportunities afforded by the state's many tour operators. But before you go, learn a little bit about a time when these amazing creatures were followed not for a photo shot, but a harpoon one.

Whaler's Museum

Located in a popular shopping mall, the Whaler's Museum presents a cornucopia of information about the world's largest sea mammal.

Hawaii isn't best known for amusement parks. But the Dole Plantation offers one that, like many things in Hawaii, is a little bit different. That, and a dozen other fascinating things to see and do here make this attraction one of the state's continuing best.

Dole is known worldwide for producing and selling pineapple. James Drummond Dole arrived in Hawaii in 1899 to do just that. But, ironically, the fruit is not a native species. It is believed to be an import from Brazil or Paraguay, carried here in the 16th century by Spanish traders who arrived on the islands during one of their many voyages.

Hawaii offers some of the finest scuba diving opportunities anywhere in the world. It has all the variety of a Polynesian paradise like Fiji combined with the most modern facilities and world-class guides.

Thanks to year round warm waters, it's possible to schedule a dive in Hawaii in any season. That makes it more cost effective to travel here than some other locations, such as Tahiti or Australia. Though they have mild climates, too, airline and hotel costs vary more for them throughout the year.

But the benefits go well beyond saving a few dollars. There are unparalleled dive locales and types all within easy travel.

Oahu

Honolulu Zoo

Starting from a land grant in 1876, the Honolulu Zoo was gradually stocked with animals in the early 20th century by the Administrator of Kapiolani Park. Growing from a tiny collection of a monkey, a honey bear and a few lions, it now offers views of hundreds of animals both familiar and exotic.

There are over 43-acres in Waikiki of animals in one of the most unusual zoo settings anywhere in the world. Over 750,000 visitors per year come to this site near Diamond Head to enjoy the painstakingly gathered species in a lush and tropical environment.