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. 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. The goal is to try and collect as many useful items as possible. The items available are: