Southwest® flights from Atlanta to Honolulu (Oahu) from $311

Miles of soft sand beaches, historic World War II memorial sites, and melt-in-your-mouth shave ice are just a few of the things that draw tourists to the island of Oahu year after year. Hawaii’s capital city, Honolulu, is a great place to start your visit. Immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of the Waikiki neighborhood to get a feel for life on island time. This well-known quarter has a little of everything: sleek high-rise skyscrapers, eclectic souvenir shops, trendy vegan cafes, and—of course—the iconic Waikiki Beach. This two-mile long beach is known around the world for its picturesque white sand and clear blue water. Grab your paddleboard and snorkel or a towel and your favorite beach read and soak up some rays at one of the most beloved spots in Honolulu.

To learn more about the history of Hawaii, head over to Iolani Palace. The Kingdom of Hawaii’s ruling family used to call this impressive building home, starting with King Kamehameha III in 1845 and ending with Queen Liliʻuokalani in 1893. Today, the palace is recognized as a National Historic Landmark and is open to the public as a museum. Between the end of the 19th century and today, the palace has been the site of numerous historical events and remains the only royal residence located on U.S. soil.