Hawaii certainly makes sense for traveling beach goers, extreme athletes, hikers, families and scuba divers–but history buffs? You bet. From the earliest Polynesian inhabitants to earning statehood in 1959, this Pacific island chain celebrates a long and rich cultural tradition that spans centuries. Museums, memorials, and relics of the past dot the islands, and popping around from site to site will leave you with a better understanding of how Hawaii came to be the sought-after destination it is today. For those hoping to spend some time on their Hawaii vacations learning about the Aloha spirit, here are a couple of historical and cultural suggestions to round out your trip.
Jaggar Museum
Without volcanic activity, there would obviously be no Hawaii. The Thomas A. Jaggar Museum on Hawaii is dedicated to the study of volcanology, and features many exhibits on how people have navigated these magma-spewing giants over the years. You’ll find functioning seismographs, retired tools and clothing, and perfect views of the main crater within the Volcanoes National Park.
Bishop Museum
Opening up at the turn of the 20th century, Honolulu’s Bishop Museum is the perfect place to begin your research into the vast cultural history of Hawaii. The museum features the world’s largest collection of books, exhibits, and artifacts relating to Hawaiiana–the study of The Kingdom of Hawaii and Polynesia as a whole. You’ll learn plenty about the islands’ first inhabitants, the flora and fauna that you’ll find on and around Hawaii (the sperm whale skeleton is not to be missed), and the royalty that ruled the island until 1894.
Captain Cook’s Landing Spot
For an historical outing mixed with some typical Hawaiian aquatic fun, rent some kayaks on the Big Island and make your way out to Kealakekua Bay State Park, where you’ll be able to visit the memorial to Captain James Cook. Cook entered this bay all the way back in 1789, making him the first European to chance upon the shores of this Pacific paradise. It didn’t end well for him, as a skirmish between himself and the natives ultimately cost him his life. But he is still remembered today in the form of the simple, elegant tribute on this spot, as well as many different restaurant and shop names.
Pearl Harbor
On a more somber note, traveling up the leeward coast of Oahu, just north of Honolulu, you’ll find Pearl Harbor–the site of the Japanese attack in 1941. Besides several museums detailing the US’ involvement in World War II and the country’s aviation history, the harbor is also home to the USS Arizona. You’ll board a ferry and make your way out to the sunken battleship in the middle of the bay, where you’ll be able to take in this remarkable memorial. The USS Arizona is visited by millions each year, so make sure you plan accordingly and leave some time to secure tickets.
