Sonic the Hedgehog 3/Bonus stages

In Sonic 2 jumping in to the stars above a star post brings you to the special stage, however in Sonic 3 you are brought to a bonus stage instead. The goal is to try and collect as many useful items as possible. The items available are: To enter a bonus Stage you need to pass a Starpost with 50 or more rings. Stars will appear above the starpost. Jump into the stars to enter the bonus stage.