The fact that Hawaii has a rich cultural heritage is often overshadowed by the image it bears of being one of the biggest tourist hotspots in the world. Hawaii attracts tourists from across the world for its white sandy beaches and crystal blue waters; its clever drinks with the cute umbrellas. Hawaii is the destination for fun seekers who come here to participate in tons of outdoor activities like scuba diving and sailing, and enjoy a sophisticated and exciting night life.

Indeed, Hawaii did not become a state until midway through the twentieth century. Although American influence dates back all the way to the early 18th century, Hawaii did not officially become a state until 1959. Since then, it has steadily grown in popularity as a major tourist destination.

In spite of the fun it offers, it is not fair to come back from Hawaii without probing beyond the surface of what the island has to offer. Hawaii has a much deeper gift to bestow upon visitors. There are a number of places in Honolulu that give a glimpse of what life must have been on this island before it became the tourist hotspot that it is today.

Washington Place was built in 1846 and bears the name of the first president of the United States. It stands as a haven for people wanting to return to the old ways that existed prior to the arrival of the West. After the last Queen was overthrown, she spent the remaining years of her life in Washington Place until her death in 1917.

For decades, the supporters of monarchy used to gather at Washington Place hoping to bring back monarchy and return to the old ways. It was built by John Owen Dominis, the last quenn's husband. Washington Place has a rich history of the place and the culture. Here you get a glimpse of how the traditional Hawaiian culture transformed into what we see today.

Honolulu honors its hero Kamehameha I who unified all the islands before the West arrived. There is a statue of this popular Hawaiian hero. He is the man who helped to maintain traditional Hawaiian values when his people drifted towards the Western culture, the traces of which are evident all over now.

If you want to get more in depth knowledge of the way modern Hawaii evolved and learn a few important lessons from the lives of people who emerged from past and faced the new challenges of the modern life, then you certainly need to visit the various museums and libraries that dot Honolulu cityscape.

It's true that most people go to Hawaii for the absolutely out-of-the-world experience, and would not like to spend time in museums, but you cannot ignore the fact that these places are part of the soul that is Hawaii. If you really want to see what is beautiful about Hawaii, then you should spend some time to learn about its rich history and interesting people.