Honolulu, on the island of Oahu, makes for a great beach holiday. I recently spent five days there and enjoyed the beaches, culture, and tropical vegetation. I stayed at the fun Surfjack Hotel and Swim Club, which has a lobby with a pool in the center, free sunscreen, and live music and other events every night. The ten-story hotel is next door to Bacchus, a fun Gay bar, and the In Between Bar, another Gay night spot, is just a block away. The nearby ABC store, part of a chain of Hawaiian convenience stores, has everything you need. The surf-themed Surfjack has personality, charm, and great service you won't get at the chains and high-rises. Plus you get a deck or lanai to relax on and enjoy the tropical breezes.

What to do
Don't miss the Foster Arboretum in the center of the city. It showcases the amazing vegetation of this tropical island. Wonder at the huge trunk of the kapok tree and the arboretum's many palms, including the double coconut palm and the cannonball tree with its huge fruits that weigh several pounds.

Enjoy the artwork of Hawaiian artists at the Hawaii State Art Museum.

Stop by the beautiful 'Iolani Palace, which was home to the Hawaiian monarchy, and view the statue of King Kamehameha, who united the islands into one country. (Unfortunately, as I learned, the US annexed the republic that later succeeded Kamehameha's dynasty.)

Tour the State Capitol, and walk around the beautiful campus of the University of Hawaii.

Lie back and catch some rays at nearby Fort DeRussy beach, which features great views of the Diamond Head volcano.

If you want to burn off some energy, you can walk or run with the Frontrunners Saturdays at 8:30 a.m.; they meet behind the zoo. Then grab breakfast and explore the Farmers' Market at the nearby Community College. You can hike up to Diamond Head from there. The college also has a botanical garden featuring a cactus display — you are on the dry side of Oahu here.

If running and hiking aren't your speed, work out with the locals at the 24 Hour Fitness. The West Coast chain has a branch near Waikiki.

Nightlife
Bacchus, the Gay bar next to the Surfjack, has an outdoor deck that's great for people-watching. Try the Thai food at the restaurant next door.

On Sundays, join karaoke night at In Between (just steps from Bacchus). Filled with friendly locals, this Gay bar is Honolulu at its non-touristy best. The Velvet Lounge has sexy supplies just upstairs from the bar, which is located in an alley off the main drag.

Catch the sunset at Hula's (on the second floor of the Grand Hotel) and enjoy happy hour there Monday through Friday. Hula's special events include a catamaran cruise some Saturdays. You will find them at 134 Kapahulu on the second floor of the Grand Hotel.

Dance the night away at the new Atlas Club, or have a drink with locals at Tapas.

Getting there
Southwest has great fares to Honolulu and other cities on the island (and inter island service for only $39). I took Southwest nonstop from Oakland and returned to Phoenix. There's no charge for checked bags and you can change your ticket for free if you need to. Unlike American Airlines, Southwest doesn't overbook their flights, nor do they annoy you with emails asking you to give up your seat for $300. Best of all, Southwest does not outsource their airline as the other carriers do (via "regional jets" operated by other companies).

From the airport, take the #20 bus (known as The Bus) to your hotel in Waikiki on the south shore of Oahu. You can take The Bus — a bargain that runs frequently — around town and around Waikiki.

Where to eat
Grab some local dishes at Da Spot, 2469 King Street, and enjoy their great smoothies.

Nearby, Down to Earth Natural Living (2525 S. King) has a great food bar including salads and fresh juices. You can eat upstairs.

The ABC Stores (including the one near the hotel at 408 Lewers St.) have everything you need for your vacation including the Japanese-inspired snack musubi: a block of white rice with a slice of meat (including spam or "salmon flakes") on top and a thin wrapper of dried seaweed to hold it together. Also try the papaya, and wash it down with coconut or pineapple juice.

Where to stay
The aforementioned Surfjack (412 Lewers St.) is my go-to. I have stayed there twice. Unlike other hotels, they are currently not charging a resort fee. There is so much to do on the property (great espresso bar that also sells tropical clothes and more, restaurant that provides food and beverage service around the pool, live music and other events nightly), you will not want to leave. The spacious rooms are amazing and feature balconies or lanais. Check out the handmade furniture. The Surfjack is popular with locals and hotel guests and has a personality missing from the chain hotels. Pricewise, it the Trader Joe's of hotels in Waikiki, but with a fun and tropical vibe. You will find them at.

Travel tips
Book your hotel before your flight as hotel rates vary and can be expensive at times.

Learn the Hawaiian language. "Aloha" means not only "welcome" but also "peaceful" and "friendly." As the saying goes, "practice Aloha," which means to act compasssionately; in appreciation of the Island, please practice Aloha at all times.

And wear plenty of sunscreen (free at the Surfjack). You are in the tropics.