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WAIKIKI, on the Island of Oahu, the Gathering Place Waikiki is the main tourist area of Honolulu and is on the Island of Oahu, the gathering place. Oahu is the most populous of all the islands of Hawaii with 80% of the state population. Honolulu is the state capital of Hawaii. Oahu is 44 miles long from its farthest point and is about 30 miles wide. The average daily temperature is 80 F to 82 F degrees with gentle trade winds year round. On very rare occasions, the temperature can rise to the low 90's in summer and drop to the 50's in winter. Each island has its own climate which can be different from the windward side to the leeward side of the island. You will hear the word "aloha" (which means Hello and Goodbye) and "mahalo" (which means Thank You) everywhere you go. And, of course, everyone "hangs loose" with a gesture of either hand as a greeting to a friend with the thumb, index and little finger extended with open palm. There is no age restriction for expressing "hang loose." Banks are, generally, open Monday thru Friday between the hours of 8AM to 3PM. Hawaii does not recognize Daylight Savings Time. During the winter months, there is a two hour difference between the west coast Mainland US and Hawaii. During Daylight Savings Time, there is a three hour difference from the west coast Mainland and Hawaii. Upon arrival, be sure to pick up one of several free publications available that provide information on the sights and sounds of Oahu. There are usually discount coupons contained for some of the best fun things to do and discount coupons to some of the finest restaurants. This Week Oahu is one of these magazines available in magazine racks on the street and in hotels, restaurants, and drug stores. These publications have great maps for getting around and seeing all the must see things. Honolulu International Airport (HNL) is approx. 30 minutes northwest of Honolulu and Waikiki. Ground transportation is abundant and most car rental agencies are located in the Baggage Claim Areas. Hawaii Visitors Bureau; 2270 Kaladaua Ave. #801 Honolulu; 808.923.1811; provides a vast selection of information and material related to travel. Beaches Businesses Fitness Hotels Lodging Massage Night Clubs Private Clubs Restaurants Sites Organizations