Oahu is called the Gathering Place, and it combines big-city energy with more natural variety than any other Hawaiian island. It's home to Honolulu, Hawaii's capital, along with volcanic craters, lush valleys, rainforest hikes and some of the most famous beaches in the world.

History comes alive here. Pay your respects at Pearl Harbor National Memorial and the USS Arizona Memorial, then tour Iolani Palace, the only royal palace in the United States. In Waikiki, gleaming hotels line a beach that's perfect for learning to surf or paddleboard, and you can hike Diamond Head for sweeping views. Then get out and explore the whole island. On the North Shore, watch giant winter waves at Waimea Bay and the Banzai Pipeline, browse the surf town of Haleiwa and snack at the famous shrimp trucks while sea turtles rest on the sand. Drive the windward coast past Kailua and Lanikai beaches, among the most beautiful in Hawaii, and visit Kualoa Ranch, where many movies were filmed. Snorkel the turquoise waters of Hanauma Bay, hike to Manoa Falls, and learn about Polynesian culture at the Polynesian Cultural Center or a traditional luau at sunset.

Oahu is the easiest Hawaiian island to reach, with nonstop flights from across the country, and it pairs well with Maui, Kauai or the Big Island. I'll plan an itinerary that goes beyond Waikiki, book your Pearl Harbor tickets and handle island-hopping connections.