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The most cosmopolitan city of the Hawaiian Islands, Honolulu is vibrant, diverse, and full of history and culture.
Perched on the South Shore, the capital city of the Hawaiian Islands is often the first place most visitors to the islands see, and with good reason. Not only is it the most convenient place to travel to from the mainland US and the rest of the world, but it’s also a cultural and historical melting pot with enough natural beauty to wow even the most experienced travelers.
From discovering Hawaii’s unique aloha spirit to sampling local cuisine and exploring the many fascinating museums, there is plenty to do in Honolulu and the surrounding area.
So if you’re short on time and want to plan your sightseeing around the best the island offers, let us be your travel guide for can’t-miss things to do in Honolulu.
Adventure or Relax in Honolulu’s Nature
From breathtaking hikes through the tropical rain forest and epic beach strolls along dreamy white sand beaches to whale watching cruises in the Pacific Ocean and waterfall adventures deep in the jungle, there’s no shortage of options for embracing Mother Nature’s wonders around Honolulu.
Hike Around Diamond Head State Monument
- Where: 18th Avenue, Waikiki, Honolulu
- Website: dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/parks/oahu/diamond-head-state-monument/
Diamond Head State Monument is one of the most dominant elements of Honolulu’s eclectic skyline and makes for a great day of trekking and exploring.
Diamond Head is a dormant volcano over 300,000 years old. Sitting 232 meters above sea level, it was once home to local military activities, but today it is one of the most popular places to trek.
On a sunny day, join the many hikers heading up the well-maintained trail along the edge of Diamond Head Crater. The walk is just under a mile and passes through tunnels and up stairways before ending at a spectacular viewpoint that offers vistas across Honolulu and the Pacific ocean.
There are also wartime bunkers, army tunnels, a lighthouse, and a fire control station to explore at the top of the trail.
Diamond Head State Monument is closed on Christmas and New Year’s Day. The best time to hike on Oahu is late winter into spring when the weather is cooler, and fall can also be a good time, but the terrain can get muddy after rainy spells.
Relax on Waikiki Beach
You have probably heard of Waikiki Beach, and that’s because it’s one of Hawaii’s most famous beaches and one of the best-known in the world. No trip to Honolulu is complete without at least a short visit to this iconic beach, and it’s conveniently central for visitors staying in the city.
Waikiki Beach comprises several smaller white sand beaches and stretches for two miles. The most extensive section is Duke Kahanamoku Beach which is well-known in its own right (named after local surf legend Duke Kahanamoku). On the other side is a spectacular five-acre man-made lagoon.
There is plenty to do at Waikiki Beach. Visitors can picnic under one of the many tropical palm trees, sunbathe on the soft sand, or swim and snorkel in the calm blue ocean water.
For those who like a little more water sports activities on their beach days, stand-up paddle boarding can be done in the lagoon, and it’s also possible to boogie board in the gentle surf of the main shoreline. Surfing lessons are on offer, too, and the breaks are typically calm enough for new surfers.
The central location of Waikiki Beach means that many of Honolulu’s best resorts, bars, and restaurants are within walking distance. The view of the Diamond Head volcano is also visible from the beach, creating an incredible skyline to watch the sunset.
Due to this beach’s popularity, it can get fairly crowded on weekends. If possible, head down on a weekday for a quieter beach experience. If you only have the weekend available and Waikiki Beach is too hectic, try the nearby Ala Moana Beach Park instead.
Go Whale Watching
If you plan to visit Honolulu from December to May, book a whale-watching tour and attempt to spot a koholā, or humpback whale, in the island’s southern seas. These majestic giants head to Hawaii’s warm waters each year to breed and give birth to their calves. Seeing them in the wild is an experience like no other and is an extremely popular activity with visitors to Oahu.
From Honolulu, visitors can schedule a day tour with one of the many operators or charter a boat and head out on an adventure to spot the whales. You might see them playing at the ocean’s surface, slapping their tails, or blowing air and water into the sky if you’re lucky.
If you prefer to stay on dry land, whales can often be spotted from many of the beaches on the southeastern coast of Oahu. Makapuu Lighthouse, Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, and Le’ahi Head are all great spots to try your luck.
Tip: Please note that boats are prohibited from going within 100 yards of a whale, and nobody should approach or touch a whale or any other marine creature during their visit to Hawaii.
Trek to Manoa Falls
Just 15 minutes outside of Honolulu are the spectacular Manoa Falls and the Manoa Falls Trailhead. This day trip will take you to a stunning 46-meter-tall waterfall in the heart of Manoa Valley and is a short and manageable 45-minute walk along a clear trail, providing easy access to nature just outside of the city.
It’s best to visit these falls outside of the summer because they are most spectacular when it rains. However, the hiking trail passes through the rainforest, and the path can be slippery after rain. If you don’t feel confident doing the hike alone, many tour operators in Honolulu offer tours of the falls and the surrounding rainforest.
Please note that even though the water may look inviting, it’s recommended not to swim because of the risk of rock slides that have previously happened in the area. The water is also unsafe to drink, even though it may look refreshing, so take plenty of water with you for the hike.
Manoa Falls are easily accessible from Honolulu via car or city bus. Parking is $5 and is located near the trailhead.
Snorkel Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
- Where: 100 Hanauma Bay Rd, Honolulu
- Website: hanaumabaystatepark.com/
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is 13 miles from Honolulu and just a 25-minute drive. Having been voted the best beach in the United States in 2016, it is a must-see for visitors to Honolulu.
The breathtaking cove has been slowly formed throughout thousands of years within a volcanic cone. As a result, the preserve is now home to one of the most dynamic marine ecosystems in the world.
In fact, the site has been a protected marine life conservation area and underwater park since the 1960s. In 2002, a marine education center opened to allow tourists to discover more about the Hawaiian ocean landscape.
One of the main reasons that Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is so popular is the reefs that can be viewed from the bay. These clear waters are well-known for attracting parrot fish, triggerfish, and green sea turtles, and sometimes there are even monk seal sightings. This makes the spot a wonderful place to swim, scuba dive, and snorkel.
Entry is $25 per person, and the parking lot is $3 per vehicle. The park is closed Mondays and Tuesdays to allow the landscape to repair itself from the damage that can come with tourism.
If you are visiting for the first time, you will be asked to watch a 9-minute video before entering the nature reserve to learn about keeping the natural landscape and wildlife safe during your trip.
Tip: This beach park books up well in advance, so it’s worth making a reservation as far as possible to secure your place.
Explore History & Culture
Dive deep into the Hawaiian Island’s rich past as you experience everything from ancient legends to historical remembrances. There is plenty to learn about Oahu’s place in history and culture.
Honolulu Museum of Art
- Where: 900 South Beretania Street, Honolulu
- Website: honolulumuseum.org
Honolulu Museum of Art is one of the world’s premium galleries and is Hawaii’s most extensive fine arts gallery. It has been wowing visitors to Hawaii since 1927 and has a permanent collection of more than 60,000 pieces.
The museum showcases collections from Hokusai, Van Gogh, Monet, and Warhol, as well as a wonderful collection of Asian, Polynesian, and Hawaiian art.
The museum is based in Downtown Honolulu and is spread across two buildings that house the exhibitions. It also includes the Doris Duke theater, which hosts regular films and concerts.
The open-air courtyards and ponds are a pleasant space to stroll between exhibitions when the weather is good, and there are two cafes on-site for grabbing a coffee or a bite to eat.
Honolulu Museum of Art is open Thursday to Sunday from 10 am. Check visiting hours during holidays. The museum adds a little nightlife to the mix from January to October with its monthly ARTafterDARK event. Guests can enjoy the vibe of a block party in an art gallery setting.
Tip: If you are a fan of world art, be sure to check out the Shangri La Museum of Islamic Art, Culture, and Design, too.
Bishop Museum
- Where: 1525 Bernice Street, Honolulu
- Website: bishopmuseum.org/
Bishop Museum is considered one of Oahu’s best tourist attractions and is the perfect way to spend a few hours discovering Hawaii’s historical and cultural background. The museum was founded in 1889 by Charles Reed Bishop in honor of his wife, Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop, who was the last descendant of the Kamehameha dynasty. Initially, the space was created to house royal heirlooms. Still, today, the museum is home to the largest collection of century-spanning Pacific and Hawaiian artifacts and specimens in the world.
You’ll find exhibits dedicated to Hawaiian art, legends, gods, and beliefs here. You can learn about Polynesian wayfinding, experience an erupting volcano with a live lava demonstration, and stroll through a native Hawaiian garden.
One of the most popular parts of the museum is the planetarium, where it’s possible to learn about space and discover the true beauty of the night sky.
Bishop Museum is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm with the exception of Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
Pearl Harbor National Memorial
- Where: 1 Arizona Memorial Place, Honolulu
- Website: nps.gov/perl/index.htm
Pearl Harbor is a National Historic Landmark and is home to one of the most widely-known moments of the US’s World War II history. At the landmark, you’ll find five memorials commemorating the tragic events of the 1941 attack that led to the US’s entry into WWII.
The USS Arizona Memorial museum can only be accessed by boat because it straddles the sunken wreckage. As a result, the exhibition is separated into three parts; visitors are given a bird’s eye view of the waterlogged deck in one area, and the Shrine contains a thought-provoking memorial to the lives lost and those that survived the attack.
One of the must-see memorials is the Battleship Missouri Memorial. This 900-foot-long battleship is a floating dedication to the lost soldiers from that day. Another site of interest is USS Bowfin Submarine Museum which can also be found here.
These historical sites are open to exploring as a self-guided tour, but official guides are also on hand daily to give a deeper insight into the horrors of the attack. The Pearl Harbor Visitor Center is free to the public.
Explore Downtown Honolulu
If you’re planning a trip to Honolulu, you’ll likely be hitting the downtown area. From historical spots like Iolani Palace to wild adventures at the city’s local zoo, the city center of Hawaii’s largest urban area is full of exciting things to do.
Iolani Palace
- Where: 364 S King Street, Honolulu
- Website: iolanipalace.org
Did you know that Hawaii used to be a monarchy?
Kings and queens ruled the islands until the late 19th century, and Iolani Palace is one of the last remnants of Hawaii’s regal past. This spectacular building sits in Downtown Honolulu and is a stark contrast to the modern buildings that surround it. The charming terraces ooze European charm, and the Baroque finishes are fascinating to see.
Exhibitions at the palace include the personal collections of Queen Liliuokalani and King Kalakaua and military artifacts. Here, you’ll see what life was like in the only royal palace ever to be built on US soil. Discover the Grand Hall, Throne Room, and even the Imprisonment Room for a unique glimpse into life as a 19th-century royal.
Tip: Iolani Palace can be visited as a guided tour with a Palace Docent or as a self-led audio tour. The palace is open from 9 am through 4 pm, Tuesday to Saturday. Allow 60-90 minutes to see all the palace offers.
Honolulu Zoo
- Where: 151 Kapahulu Avenue, Honolulu
- Website: honoluluzoo.org
Honolulu Zoo is the only zoo in the US that originated in a King’s grant of royal lands to the island’s people. Located in front of Sans Souci Beach, today it is home to more than 900 species of rare and exotic animals in state-of-the-art enclosures. From lions and baboons to poisonous tree frogs and giant salamanders, this well-organized tourist site is a great place to get to know creatures from around the world.
There is a great program of activities, including camps throughout the year and special events during the holidays. Twilight Tours can be arranged to give guests a private tour after the zoo closes, and Snooze at the Zoo is a sleepover like no other that includes a hot breakfast the following day.
This award-winning zoo is open daily except Christmas Day from 10 am until 3 pm, and the grounds close at 4 pm.
Ala Moana Center
- Where: 1450 Ala Moana Boulevard, Honolulu
- Website: alamoanacenter.com
Ala Moana Center is the world’s largest open-air shopping center and is the best place in Honolulu to shop ‘til you drop.
There are more than 350 stores and restaurants in this four-story mall, and the variety on offer is huge. From department stores and boutiques to over 160 delicious dining options, there is plenty going on to keep every member of your group entertained.
You can pick up everything from surf gear and casual wear to designer outfits and decadent jewelry at Ala Moana Center. There’s even an amphitheater where local bands play, and hula dancers perform.
The mall is open 10 am – 8 pm daily, and plenty of parking is available on-site.
Try Honolulu’s Cuisine
Hawaii’s food scene is the stuff of legends, and Honolulu is at the heart of the action. This culinary melting pot draws from Asian, European, and American influences and Hawaii’s rich culture to deliver world-class food for any budget. Here are some of the best spots to try out on your visit to Honolulu.
MW Restaurant
- $$$$
- Address: 888 Kapi‘olani Boulevard, Honolulu
- Website: mwrestaurant.com
- Hours: Lunch is available as takeout from 11 am to 2 pm Tuesday through Friday, and dinner is served from 5 pm to 9 pm Monday through Saturday. Bookings for dinner are required.
MW Restaurant is our top pick if you’ve got some cash to splash. This sophisticated dinner spot has Hawaiian cuisine at the center of its menu but with a unique flair that is worth every penny. Ingredients are seasonal and regional, and the owners are so committed to this ethos that the menu sometimes changes daily according to what is available.
MW’s dishes feature the likes of mochi-crusted opakapaka served with handmade somen noodles and short ribs with truffled smashed potatoes. The desserts here are also second to none, and there are two tasting menus that are both available with wine pairing.
MW Restaurant is located on the second floor of the Velocity Honolulu building in Downtown Honolulu.
Redfish Poke Bar
- $$-$$$
- Address: 685 Auahi Street, Honolulu
- Website: redfishpoke.com/
- Hours: Redfish is open Sunday through Thursday, 11 am to 9 pm, and Friday and Saturday, from 11 am to midnight. Reservations are recommended and can be made through OpenTable.
Every visit to Hawaii is complete with trying a poke bowl, and Redfish Poke Bar is one of the best spots in Honolulu. Since opening its doors in 2019, this Kaka’ako Neighborhood favorite has been known among locals and visitors for its authentic plates with an innovative twist.
Guests can choose from one of the signature combinations or create their own bowls. Fresh fish is always on the menu and includes salmon, hamachi, and ahi, and there are also vegetarian options available. In addition, to poke bowls, Redfish also serves small plates such as chicken wings and oysters and medium plates of short ribs and fried rice. There’s also an extensive drinks list to choose from.
Helena’s Hawaiian Food
- $$
- Address: 1240 N. School Street, Kalihi, Honolulu
- Website: helenashawaiianfood.com
- Hours: Helena’s Hawaiian Food is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 am until 7.30 pm. Reservations aren’t required, and orders can be made online for takeout.
For traditional Hawaiian food in an iconic setting, Helena’s Hawaiian Food is the best place on the island. Tourists and locals love this dining spot, and it is so popular that it was awarded a James Beard award in 2000.
The restaurant is family-owned, and Helena’s grandson now owns it. The menu hasn’t changed much since the restaurant opened, and many of Helena’s original recipes are still being honored today. Try the luau style kālua pig cooked in an imu (underground oven) for a real taste of Hawaii, or order the set menu to try a little bit of everything.
Ethel’s Grill
- $$
- Address: 232 Kalihi St, Honolulu
- Website: instagram.com/ethelsgrill_kalihi
- Hours: Head over Tuesday through Saturday from 8 am to 2 pm.
Ethel’s Grill is a lively institution with a cash-only, no-frills vibe that has earned it a stellar reputation. This spot has been open for decades, and the family behind it today draws on its Japanese, Okinawan, Mexican, and Hawaiian roots to deliver an exciting menu of fusion food. The homestyle Asian plates with a twist include basa fish tacos, poke bowls, ahi belly, and shiso chicken.
This is a tiny place, so dining in isn’t possible. Instead, take your order down to the nearby Kaka’ako Waterfront Park for a picnic, and enjoy a unique dining experience surrounded by Hawaii’s natural beauty.
Explore and Stay in Honolulu
These are the top can’t-miss things to do in Honolulu. As you can see, there is more than enough to keep you busy during your trip to Hawaii. There’s so much to do you might find yourself planning a return trip!
Featured Image Credit: Edmund Garman via Flickr CC2.0
