DOWNTOWN. This landmark tower, sitting at the edge of Honolulu Harbor, once provided the initial greeting to visitors disembarking from cruise ships. Inscribed with the word "Aloha" and boasting clock faces, the tower also offers an observation deck, from which folks can take in views of Honolulu. These days, the tower (which was built in 1926) serves as the centerpiece of Aloha Tower Marketplace, a complex of shops and restaurants.

WAIKIKI. Commemorating one of Waikiki's most famous native sons, this bronze statue provides the four-time Olympic athlete an eternal presence on his beloved beach. A champion swimmer, Duke also helped spread the popularity of surfing in America and was both a sheriff of Honolulu and a film actor. In fact, his fame accounted for his being named the "Hawaiian Ambassador of Aloha." Although the statue faces inland rather than out to sea, it's often adorned with flower leis by those who remember and appreciate Duke's magnanimous character.

DOWNTOWN. This contemporary building, beautiful in its simplicity, holds a host of meaning in its architecture. Designed as a reflection of the Hawaiian islands, the capitol itself is intended to mimic a volcano, and its surrounding pool represents the Pacific Ocean. Even its pillars are supposed to evoke coconut palms. An open-air courtyard features a mosaic of aquatic colors, and the building's entrances are watched over by Queen Liliuokalani (Hawaii's deposed ruler) and Father Damien (a 19th century humanitarian). Sculptures in the legislative chambers recall the sun and moon, and walls throughout are paneled with native woods.

DOWNTOWN. Honoring the king who first united the Hawaiian islands in the early 19th century, this statue stands proudly in front of Ali'iolani Hale. Modeled after the Roman "Augustus Prima Porta" statue, it indicates both strength and openness. One of four castings of the statue (two on the Big Island and one in Washington, DC), this Oahu example is the most famous and is the one richly adorned with extravagant leis on King Kamehameha Day (each June 11). Designed by Thomas R. Gould and cast in Italy.

NUUANU. In ancient days, this crater was the site of solemn, ritualistic ceremonies involving island priests and royal figures. The place, known as the "Hill of Sacrifice," was granted an extended purpose when it became the National Memorial Cemetery and was chosen to be the final resting place for men and women who gave up their lives in service to their country. More than 33,000 bodies are interred here, representing four wars and including a portion of the dead from Pearl Harbor. The Honolulu Memorial, a commemorative structure, includes a chapel, names of missing soldiers, and a statue of "Columbia."