A History Buff’s Guide To Honolulu.

While many choose to use Honolulu simply as a portal for relaxation, this dynamic place offers sights and attractions that span many traveler spheres. With restaurants for the gourmands, trails for the hikers, and clubs for the night owls, spending time in the state capital can be a great way to experience every aspect of Hawaiian cultural life. This island chain is no stranger to historical events, and if you’ve been itching to satisfy your inner history buff, The Gathering Place offers many different outings and important sites that span centuries. From early European contact to the US’ military presence, you won’t have to go far from Waikiki and the White Sands Hotel to step back in time. In the name of efficiency, here are several suggestions to entice you off of the beach and onto your historical tour of this magical island.

Captain Clerke’s First Contact

Photo by jongela19 via Flickr.

Though perhaps living in the shadow of his counterpart James Cook, the first European to set foot on Oahu’s shores was none other than Captain Charles Clerke. The Captain dropped anchor in Waimea Bay, along North Shore. The remains of a large temple that stood on the day of Clerke’s arrival, Pu’u o Mahuka, overlook the bay and valley, and are a must-visit if you’re in the area. Waimea is very popular on several other fronts. As one of the world’s most famous surfing spots, and one of the sets from the hit TV series LOST, you won’t be hard pressed to find interesting things to visit. Just remember that you’re traversing over the ground seen by European eyes for the first time all the way back in 1779!

A Beacon In The Night

Photo by puuikibeach via Flickr.

Makapuu Point Light, on Oahu’s Southeastern-most tip, played a larger role in the development of the island chain than one might think. With annexation an all but certainty, shipping companies wanted to put a guiding light on the point to direct ships coming into Honolulu from the Western coast of the US. Using what is still the biggest lens in the country, the lighthouse has been shining brightly (reaching distances of 19 miles) since 1909, and was even the site of the first radio beacon on Hawaii. Visitors can make their way to the point to take in this remarkable site by heading south on Interstate 1. It is a mild hike along a paved road, but be sure to prepare yourself!

A Memorial To The Fallen

Photo by DVIDSHUB via Flickr.