With its beautiful beaches, stunning natural wonders and reputation for luxurious accommodations, Hawaii has been one of the world's most popular tourist destinations for years. Yet while vacationers can ensure that they enjoy the luxurious side of the area by booking vacation villas in Hawaii, where should one go to learn a little more about the locals? If you're curious about the history of the island of Oahu, then a trip to the Bishop Museum might be just what the doctor ordered.

The premier natural and cultural history museum in Hawaii, the Bishop Museum is located in the Kalihi District of Oahu. This stunning facility was the pet project of noted philanthropist Charles Reed Bishop, who initially named the museum after his late wife, Bernice, in 1889. Over the years, the museum has been continually expanded, most notably with the construction of the Castle Memorial Building, the current home of the facility's travelling exhibits, in 1990

As the largest museum in the state, the museum is also home to the most comprehensive collection of Polynesian cultural and scientific artifacts in the world. This provides travelers with a unique look into the history and culture of the region, as well as an unbiased view of the events that shaped what would eventually become the state of Hawaii.

At the center of the museum's Polynesian offerings is the Manu'unu' ka Welolani – the Chiefly Cultures of Polynesia. This exhibit, which runs through the summer, focuses on traditional symbols of rank like masks, headdresses and ceremonial garb. Featuring a collection of whale bone ivory trinkets, feathered cloaks and stone and bone jewelry, the exhibit is an interesting look at the past.

Visitors with more scientific minds will be happy to hear that the Bishops Museum also offers a robust collection of informational artifacts and interactive experiments in its Science Adventure Center. This fun and family friendly addition to the museum offers exhibits focused on many of the natural phenomena and animal life found on the island, with standout attractions including the volcano building and the Jhamandas Watumull Planetarium.

After spending a day at the museum, you return to your luxury vacation rentals with a deeper understanding of your beautiful surroundings and the people that live there. By booking ahead with a concierge, vacationers can spend the rest of their time in Hawaii exploring some of the natural phenomena they just learned.