A first stop for business travelers is Hawaii's Convention Center. Don't miss one of the largest open-air shopping centers in the country, Ala Moana Shopping Center, the Hawaiian Islands' premier shopping mall. Ala Moana Beach Park and Magic Island are beloved by locals and visitors alike. Restaurant Row, the stomping grounds for corporate luncheons and the happy hour crowd, is known as the "gateway" to downtown Honolulu.

The fertile central valley between the Waianae mountains and Koolau range, offers a glimpse into Oahu's plantation past. Historic Pearl Harbor, the largest natural harbor in Hawaii, sits to the south. Sample a fresh cut, sweet pineapple, and get lost in Dole Plantation's 1.7 mile garden maze. View the moving exhibits at the USS Arizona Memorial and explore the Battleship Missouri Memorial, the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum and Park, and the Pacific Aviation Museum.

On the fringe of Honolulu's financial district, Chinatown's historic buildings are home to a hodgepodge of shops, herbalists, lei makers, antique dealers, temples, bars, and restaurants. Watch ribbons of fresh noodles be made, taste exquisite cuisine, and buy precious jade in the hidden nooks of buildings. Browse the stylish art galleries by day, then dine and dance at Chinatown's new restaurants, bars, and clubs at night.

Your first stop along the North Shore will be charming Haleiwa, which is about a one-hour drive from Waikiki. This laid-back surf town is the social and artistic hub of the North Shore. The neighborhood's historic plantation-era buildings house cool surf shops, restaurants, art galleries, and boutique shops. This is also the perfect place to grab a bite of ono (delicious) food after a day at the beach.

The steely skyscrapers and luxury highrises along the waterfront prove Honolulu to be much more than a tourist town. Landmarks are numerous, but a few that can't be missed are the Aloha Tower, Honolulu Harbor, and Iolani Palace. After the sun goes down, the Honolulu Symphony and Hawaii Opera Theatre offer entertainment to a cultured, affluent crowd.

When sugar was king, Kahuku, Waialua, and Waipahu bustled with jobs for those who worked the fields. The neighborhoods of Kahuku, Waialua, and Waipahu have not yet surrendered their identities as plantation towns. Far from Oahu's urban core, Waialua and Kahuku farmers plant tomatoes, herbs, and corn where cane used to grow.

At the foot of the 4000 foot Waianae mountain range and less than 30 miles from Waikiki, the Leeward Coast is peppered with beautiful beaches. Luxurious resorts reside in the Ko Olina Marina. Surf the wave pool at the 29 acre Hawaiian Waters Adventure Park. Hike to the dramatic shorelines of sacred Kaena Point. This area is drier and hotter than other parts of the island.

Manoa Valley is one of the major cultural hot spots on the island. The Manoa Valley/Makiki area is home to several galleries, museums, and theater companies. Among the hidden jewels in the area are The Contemporary Museum, one of the best art museums in Hawaii, and Manoa Valley Theatre, a spirited community theater group.

World-famous Waikiki was once a playground for Hawaiian royalty. Today, Waikiki is a vibrant gathering place for visitors from around the world. Along the main strip of Kalakaua Avenue, find world-class shopping, dining, entertainment, and hospitality. At legendary Waikiki Beach, a statue of Hawaiian hero Duke Kahanamoku, welcomes you with open arms.

Set beneath the towering green slopes of the Koolau mountains, the Windward side offers a scenic alternative to Waikiki, with its dramatic ocean views, quiet beaches, and lush vistas. Watch acrobatic dolphins and clever penguins (yes, penguins) at Sea Life Park. Drive around Makapuu Point to discover jaw-dropping views of the Pacific. Take a horseback ride at Kualoa Ranch.