Bespelled by the Pacific Ocean, from the mighty breakers of the North Shore to archetypal sandy swimming beaches and exquisite tidepools, Honolulu is a city touched in every respect by its island setting. The very air is charged with the scent and savor of the sea in all its moods, and it is a natural fit that the islands are the spiritual home of surfing. The rich culture of Hawaii's first peoples has come together with Asian and Western influences to form a unique blend. Honolulu's distinct personality embodies the aloha spirit, which welcomes visitors as it relishes life's pleasures.