beautiful places to visit in honolulu hawaii

30 Best & Fun Things To Do In Honolulu (Hawaii)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: August 11, 2019  - Last updated: October 16, 2023

With its blue skies, white sands and pink umbrella drinks, Hawaii is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.

It receives almost 10 million visitors per year, and many of them head straight for the capital city of Honolulu.

You’re probably familiar with Honolulu as a place of sun-soaked beaches and high-rise hotels.

While this image isn’t inaccurate, there’s more to the city than its glitzy tourist attractions.

It has rich reservoirs of culture and history, and some of its landmarks are quite literally one of a kind.

You won’t find them anywhere else on the planet!

Are you traveling to Honolulu for your dream vacation? Are you looking for the coolest things to see while you’re there?

Here are just a few fun things to do in Honolulu!

Disclaimer: This article may contain affiliate links. If you make a booking through these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

1. Manoa Falls

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Nestled in the heart of a tropical rainforest, Manoa Falls is a 150-foot waterfall that empties into a shimmering rock pool.

It’s the crown jewel of the Manoa Falls Trail, a two-mile hike that will take you so deep into the trees that you’ll only see dappled sunlight through their canopies, but the journey is worth it.

When you reach the waterfall, you’ll realize why it’s one of the best things to do in Honolulu.

You might recognize the Manoa Falls Trail from pictures alone.

It’s been featured in movies like Jurassic Park and The Hunger Games: Catching Fire, and it’s said to be the roaming grounds of the Nightmarchers, a ghostly group of ancient Hawaiian warriors that still haunt the grounds to this day.

You might also stumble across the Manoa Falls Trail if you’re visiting the Lyon Arboretum, a nearby botanical garden.

Many visitors hit up both locations for all-day sightseeing and nature touring.

If you’re looking for gorgeous places to visit in Honolulu, you won’t want to miss Manoa Falls.

It’s so iconic that it’s carved itself a place in cinematic history, but even films fail to do it justice!

Check details, prices and reviews here.

Address: End of Manoa Road, Honolulu, Oahu, HI 96822, USA

2. Iolani Palace

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A little-known fact about Hawaii is that it used to be a monarchy.

Known as “The Kingdom of Hawaii,” it was ruled by kings and queens until it was overthrown by a coup d’etat in the late 19th century.

It became part of the U.S. shortly afterwards.

Iolani Palace is one of the last remnants of Hawaii’s old way of life.

Stretching for several acres in downtown Honolulu, it’s a spectacular building filled with everything from ornate throne rooms to plush-carpeted political offices.

Visitors can take tours, listen to audio recordings and look at vintage displays of clothes, fixtures, furniture and artifacts of long-lost royalty.

If you’re interested in history, Iolani Palace is one of the best places to go in Honolulu.

Not only does it offer meaningful lessons in the culture of Hawaii, but it’s also one of the most unique landmarks in the entire United States.

It’s the only royal palace ever built on U.S. soil, so it offers a one-of-a-kind experience for visitors everywhere.

Address:  364 S King St, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA

3. Dolphin Quest Oahu

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“Swimming with dolphins” is on a thousand bucket lists, but Dolphin Quest Oahu lets you turn your dreams into a slippery, rubbery reality.

Offered by the Kahala Hotel and Resort, Dolphin Quest Oahu is available in several different packages.

The most basic “encounters” involve wading in the dolphin pool and snapping some commemorative photos.

The more advanced packages involve feeding, petting and socializing with them, and when everyone is acquainted, you can snorkel underwater with the dolphins swimming all around you.

It’s easy to see why Dolphin Quest Oahu is one of the best attractions in the entire state of Hawaii.

It’s a must do for animal lovers, but it’s also an unforgettable experience for visitors of all types.

How many people can say that they truly swam with dolphins?

If you’re creating a shortlist of what to do during your Honolulu vacation, put Dolphin Quest Oahu near the top.

Address:  5000 Kahala Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816, USA

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You’ve probably heard of Waikiki, but you might be surprised to learn that it isn’t a city in Hawaii.

It’s a neighborhood in Honolulu.

It’s just so famous that many people dream of traveling to Waikiki more than anywhere else on the island!

What makes Waikiki so special?

For starters, it’s a bustling tourist destination filled with all kinds of shops, cafes, restaurants, resorts, theaters and museums.

High-rise buildings loom over its beaches, and colorful shopfronts display souvenirs and surfboards.

It’s exactly what you dream of when you fantasize about quitting your job and moving to a tropical paradise.

There are also a lot of fun activities to enjoy in Waikiki.

You can hit the beach, take a lei-making class, shop at outdoor markets or picnic under a fireworks show over the bay.

If you travel to Waikiki in the springtime, you can enjoy events like the Honolulu Festival.

There’s no shortage of fun things to do in Honolulu, especially if you have time to explore neighborhoods like Waikiki.

Mark it on your map for a spectacular Hawaii vacation!

Check out these tours & activities around Waikiki.

Planning to visit Waikiki? Why not check out some of the things to do in Waikiki ?

5. Diamond Head

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Hawaii is a land of volcanoes, and Diamond Head is one of its most famous.

You might know the head by several different names.

The natives call it Le’ahi (“Tuna Brow”) because of its resemblance to a fin, and 19th-century sailors named it “Diamond Head” because they mistook its glittering calcite crystals for diamonds.

Regardless of what you call it, Diamond Head is definitely one of the top things to do in Honolulu.

A hike will take you to the summit of the crater, and you’ll enjoy breathtaking aerial views of the land, water and sky.

You can also drop by some of the local shops and restaurants for snacks and souvenirs.

When you’re done, you can say that you munched on lomi-lomi while atop a volcanic crater!

Long story short, you can’t visit Honolulu without visiting Diamond Head.

It’s one of the best attractions in the city, and it might even be one of the most beautiful places in the United States .

You won’t regret a moment of the summit when you’re standing on top of the world.

Address: 18th Ave., Waikiki, Honolulu, Oahu, HI 96815, USA

6. Ala Moana Center

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There are plenty of malls in Honolulu, but there’s only one Ala Moana Center .

This four-story shopping complex is one of the largest in Hawaii, and it also holds the distinction of being the largest open-air shopping center in the entire world.

Stepping into the Ala Moana Center is like stepping into an independent city.

Sidewalks and staircases lead you across the land, and its stucco architecture makes you think of residential buildings rather than commercial businesses.

The businesses are there, however, and they’re booming.

From expensive boutiques to cheap kiosks, you can find everything at the Ala Moana Center.

There’s even a public amphitheater where bands come to play!

You can eat, drink, shop, lounge and groove to good music without having to leave the mall.

If your money is burning a hole in your pocket, consider a trip to the Ala Moana Center.

You’ll help the Honolulu economy and get some cool trinkets to take home and put on your shelf.

Address:  1450 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96814, USA

7. Leonard’s Bakery

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You might not think much of Leonard’s Bakery when you first arrive there.

It’s a small establishment with a candy-striped awning that gives it a vintage sort of look, and it’s tucked between several other businesses in a non-glamorous part of Honolulu.

When you take a deep breath, however, you’ll realize why Leonard’s Bakery is a local hot spot.

It’s one of the best places in Honolulu to get malasadas: fried, hole-less doughnuts covered in powdered sugar.

Malasadas are a cultural touchstone in Hawaii. Everyone eats them. Everyone has a favorite flavor or filling.

If you want to experience Hawaii like a native, part of your journey will involve getting sugar all over your face from some malasadas.

Consider a stop by Leonard’s Bakery if you’re looking for non-touristy things to do in Honolulu.

To enjoy the island like a native, you’ll have to eat like one!

Address:  933 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816, USA

8. Polynesian Cultural Center

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With a name like “ Polynesian Cultural Center ,” you might expect this Honolulu attraction to be a dull, museum-like institution.

You’d be wrong!

The Polynesian Cultural Center is a living theme park where you can find everything from hula dancing to spear throwing.

It’s divided into six villages that represent different regions of the Polynesian islands, including Fiji, Tahiti, Samoa and Hawaii.

Each village is filled with exciting activities that come from its homeland.

For example, the Tonga village lets you paddle a canoe down the water while painted drummers give you the performance of a lifetime.

The Aotearoa village has games and dances with poi balls.

The Samoa village has natives climbing 40-foot coconut trees with bare feet.

If you’re looking for fun stuff to do in Honolulu, consider the Polynesian Culture Center.

Not only will it teach you more about Hawaii and its surrounding regions, but it will also give you incredible stories to tell when your Honolulu vacation is over!

Address:  55-370 Kamehameha Hwy, Laie, HI 96762, USA

9. Downtown Honolulu

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The streets are alive in downtown Honolulu.

Known as the beating heart of Hawaii, it’s a thriving, bustling place where you can find everything from luxury resorts to cheap food trucks.

People of all ages, genders, nationalities and social classes mingle together on the sidewalk. It’s a true melting pot in Oahu.

Your experience in the downtown area of Honolulu will depend on the kind of trip that you’d like to have:

– If you’re traveling in style, you might want to book a suite at the Hilton Hawaiian Village where you can swim laps in infinity pools between spa sessions and golf games.

– If you’re with the kids, you can let them burn off some energy at the Wild Tiki Fun Zone or Children’s Discovery Center.

– If you’re on a budget, you can walk the plazas, listen to street music and enjoy homemade ice cream as you pose for Instagram pics in front of colorful, locally-painted murals.

Downtown Honolulu has a little something for everyone, so it’s definitely a must see during your Honolulu vacation.

Don’t skip downtown as you wander through the city!

10. Shark’s Cove

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Hawaii boasts more than 1,200 feet of coral reef, so it should come as no surprise that it’s one of the biggest destinations in the world for snorkeling and scuba diving.

If you want to strap on an oxygen tank and explore the coral for yourself, Shark’s Cove is the place to go.

Despite the moniker, you won’t find any sharks at Shark’s Cove.

It gets its name from the fact that its coastline looks like a shark head when viewed from above.

You can see this in person if you want to take a helicopter tour of Honolulu.

The best view, however, is the one underwater.

Fish will dart right in front of your goggles; fronds will wave with every ripple.

There’s an entire series of caves and caverns to explore thanks to past volcanic eruptions.

They range from 15 – 45 feet below the surface, so there’s a little something for every diver regardless of skill level.

Snorkeling is one of the best things to do in Honolulu, so don’t miss the aquatic opportunities provided by Shark’s Cove.

It answers the question of “what to see” with “everything.”

Put on your wetsuit and get going!

Planning to explore other parts of Hawaii? Why not check out some of the things to do in Maui ?

11. Honolulu Zoo

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Home to more than 900 species, the Honolulu Zoo showcases a variety of rare and exotic animals.

From poisonous tree frogs to gigantic lions, it’s a place where the whole family can get up close and personal with nature’s critters.

There are other cool things that you can do at the Honolulu Zoo, too.

There are camps for every season and special events during the holidays.

“Twilight Tours” are available after the zoo closes, and the “Snooze at the Zoo” program lets you sleep at the zoo overnight and wake up to a hot breakfast the next morning.

Marvel at the diverse wildlife of Hawaii when you take a trip to the Honolulu Zoo.

Don’t wait; call them today and ask about their upcoming schedule.

You don’t want to miss a great event at one of the premier attractions of Honolulu!

Address:  151 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA

12. Pearl Harbor

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There’s a sober shadow amidst the glittering beaches and resorts of Honolulu, and that shadow is named Pearl Harbor .

It was the site of the attacks on December 7, 1941, and it’s “a date that lives in infamy” even now.

There are a number of ways that you can pay your respects to Pearl Harbor while in Honolulu.

The most well-known memorial is the USS Arizona Memorial; it was built over the remains of the bombed battleship that claimed more than 1,700 lives.

There are also several museums and visitor centers that you can investigate.

Together, they make up a series of monuments and memorials known as the Pearl Harbor Historic Sites.

It can be difficult to confront such a painful history head-on, but you’ll regret it if you don’t visit Pearl Harbor while you’re in Honolulu.

It’s an extremely meaningful destination, so make the most of it while you’re on the island.

13. Atlantis Adventures

Anyone can wander the streets of Honolulu. Only a select few can say that they’ve seen Honolulu through the porthole of a submarine.

Atlantis Adventures is a tour company that offers underwater submarine trips for Honolulu visitors.

If you’re brave enough, you can climb into their 48-seat cruiser and descend to the bottom of the ocean while surrounded by fish, sharks, stingrays, eels and coral reefs.

You might even spot a shipwreck or two!

If you’re a little squeamish at the thought of a deep-sea trip, you can also book a regular cruise through Atlantis Adventures.

Their tours above the water are just as fun as the ones below.

No matter which trip you choose, however, one thing is for certain: Atlantis Adventures will make sure that you have a great time in Hawaii.

There’s a reason why we consider them one of the best things to do in Honolulu!

If you’re wondering what to do while on your vacation, honeymoon or getaway, take a trip with Atlantis.

14. Halona Blowhole

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The Halona Blowhole is one of the most dangerous landmarks in Hawaii.

There are fierce currents beneath the cliffs that can drag unsuspecting divers to sea, and the waves that crash against the rock formations are the reason for the “blowhole” name.

The water is forced past the rocks in a way that shoots it up like a geyser.

When viewed from a distance, however, the Halona Blowhole is perfectly safe.

It’s also beautiful: It’s considered a natural wonder of Hawaii, and many films, television shows and music videos have been shot with the gushing geyser in the background.

The best time to visit the Halona Blowhole is in the summer.

The tides are strong on hot, windy days, and they force the water to shoot higher than usual.

If you can’t make it during the summer, there’s good wintertime viewing as well.

The annual migration of humpback whales goes right past the cove, so that’s always something to see; you can also look for nesting birds and sea turtles.

You won’t find the Halona Blowhole listed in a lot of travel brochures, but it’s still one of the top places to visit in Honolulu.

It’s particularly awesome if you’re looking for non-touristy things to do.

You can just enjoy the site of the geyser for the pretty, powerful picture that it is.

15. Kuhio Beach Park

You can’t throw a rock in Honolulu without hitting a beach, but since it’s such a popular vacation destination, it can be a challenge to find a stretch of sand that isn’t teeming with joggers, surfers and dog walkers.

The good news is that the crowds haven’t overrun Kuhio Beach Park yet!

Located off the shores of Honolulu, Kuhio Beach Park is known for its calm, clear waters and laid-back atmosphere.

It’s the kind of place where you can stretch out on a beach towel without the fear that someone will smack a volleyball over your head.

Another feature of Kuhio Beach Park is that it’s home to several local landmarks.

The “Wizard Stones of Kapaemahu” are believed to have healing properties for anyone who visits them; the statues of Duke Kahanamoku and Prince Kuhio stand as testaments to Hawaii history.

The former is especially famous; it’s one of the most-photographed spots in Honolulu.

All things considered, Kuhio Beach Park is a great place to visit in Honolulu.

It’s a way to get a taste of leisurely beach life without having to elbow through a bunch of tourists to claim your spot in the sand.

If you’re looking for the best places to vacation in Hawaii, put Kuhio on your list!

Address: Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, Oahu, HI 96815, USA

Looking for more thrills in Hawaii? Why not check out some of the things to do in Kona ?

16. Honolulu Botanical Gardens

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The Honolulu Botanical Gardens are actually a series of botanical gardens.

They’re scattered across the city, and each of them offers their own unique flowers, trees and landscapes based on their geographic biodiversity.

For example, the Koko Crater Botanical Garden has a hot, desert-like climate thanks to its location in a volcanic crater, so it grows cacti and shrubs.

The Wahiawa Botanical Garden is found on a high plateau with cooler temperatures, so it has lush greens and colorful flowers.

The Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden is centered around a lake.

The Liliuokalani Botanical Garden contains a waterfall.

Nature lovers, you won’t want to miss the Honolulu Botanical Gardens.

You can even make a challenge out of visiting them all. It’ll be a neat way to spend a weekend in Hawaii!

17. Corsair Wreck Dive Site

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Honolulu is home to many diving sites, but quite a few of them are artificial.

They’ve had fish and coral transplanted to the area, or they’ve been given man-made wrecks as points of interest for swimmers and divers.

The Corsair Wreck Dive Site is an anomaly.

It’s the genuine remnants of a WWII plane that crashed into the ocean, and it’s attracted native populations of jacks, stingrays and garden eels that swim among the rusted hulls and halls.

You might not want to attempt this dive if you’re a beginner.

It’s 115 feet below the surface, and you’ll need to hire a boat and guide from a local Honolulu port just to get there.

If you have the skills, however, and you’re intrigued by the thought of exploring the underwater remains of a WWII plane, the Corsair Wreck Dive Site is one of the coolest non-touristy things to do in Hawaii .

It’ll be a challenge, not a cheap attraction.

18. Shangri La Museum of Islamic Art, Culture & Design

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“Shangri La” might be a mythical land, but the Shangri La Museum is a very real place located just outside of Honolulu.

Commissioned by the famous heiress Doris Duke, Shangri La was started as a mansion where she could collect and display Islamic artwork.

She’d been fascinated by it during her honeymoon to the Middle East, and she wanted a place where she could keep all of her portraits, tiles, jewelry, embroidery and wood carvings.

Today, the Shangri La Museum is open to the public thanks to the Doris Duke Foundation, and it’s become a mecca for those who are interested in Islamic art and culture.

It’s one of the most unique places to see in the entire state of Hawaii, so reserve your ticket well in advance!

Address:  4055 Pāpū Cir, Honolulu, HI 96816, USA

19. Hanauma Bay

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Hanauma Bay is a tropical paradise. There’s no other word for it.

The waters are clear; the sands are full of seashells and bits of coral.

Sea turtles are a common sight, and so are amazing schools of parrotfish.

It’s definitely one of the top things to do in Honolulu.

Visitors to Hanauma Bay can take part in all kinds of aquatic fun.

Whether you’re looking to swim, snorkel, surf, dive or just lounge under a beach umbrella with a good book and a fruity cocktail, you can enjoy yourself at this Honolulu beach.

The only downside of Hanauma Bay is that it can get a bit crowded.

It’s such a popular destination in Honolulu that thousands of tourists flock there every year, and they’ve had problems with things like erosion and marine life displacement.

For this reason, the bay is closed every Tuesday to keep the area stable.

Plan your trip for the weekend instead!

20. Aloha Tower

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Located on the Honolulu Harbor, the Aloha Tower is a 184-foot lighthouse that has welcomed millions of sailors and explorers since its original construction in the early 20th century.

It’s so important to the island’s history that it’s considered the Hawaiian equivalent of the Statue of Liberty!

While it still functions as a lighthouse today, the primary purpose of the Aloha Tower has shifted to tourism.

Visitors are allowed to climb to the top for breathtaking panoramic views of the Honolulu coast, and a marketplace has been set up at the base of the tower for shopping and dining.

Let us give you a travel hack for visiting Aloha Tower: Go at night.

It was built in a gothic architectural style, so when night falls and the interior lights come on, it looks like something out of a spine-tingling monster novel!

Address:  155 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA

Visiting other areas of Hawaii? Why not check out some of the things to do in Kauai ?

21. Honolulu Museum of Art

The Honolulu Museum of Art is the largest of its kind in Hawaii.

It boasts more than 50,000 pieces of artwork, and these aren’t just paintings and sculptures.

You can find everything from knitted yarns to hand-painted dolls recovered from indigenous tribes.

You might also enjoy the special events and exhibitions at the Honolulu Museum of Art.

If you visit on the right weekend, you’ll get to watch films, take pottery classes or attend printmaking workshops with aspiring artists.

There’s no limit to the courses, lectures, exhibits and social gatherings that are offered by the museum.

The Honolulu Museum of Art is a must do for history buffs who are traveling to Hawaii.

It’s one of those rare tourist attractions that manages to be both entertaining and educational, so you’ll learn something even as you’re beating the heat in its air-conditioned halls.

Just make sure that you call ahead: It’s closed every Monday, and it can shut down for other reasons as well.

If you want to visit tomorrow, call today.

Address: 900 S Beretania St, Honolulu, Oahu, HI 96814-1495, USA

22. Magic Island

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You won’t need a wand to visit Magic Island, but it’ll still offer a spellbinding time!

Despite its name, Magic Island isn’t actually an island.

It’s a man-made peninsula located a short distance from Honolulu, and it’s adjacent to another recreational area called Ala Moana Beach Park.

There are a lot of fun things to see and do at Magic Island.

The biggest draw is the beach; it’s protected by large rocks that break off the worst of the waves, so its waters are usually calm and mild.

You can swim, tan, jog or even join a yoga class on the sand.

If you’re willing to scoop up your flip-flops and walk a bit, Magic Island is also close to a number of shops, restaurants and movie theaters.

Wear yourself out on the beach during the day; relax over a shrimp platter as the sun goes down.

Magic Island is one of the top things to do in Honolulu.

It might not be the fanciest, but it’s still magical.

Channel your inner Dumbledore and book your trip tonight!

Address: 1201 Ala Moana Blvd, At the end of Ala Moana Beach Park, Honolulu, Oahu, HI 96814-4205, USA

23. Hawaii Food Tours

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Sightseeing in Honolulu can work up quite the appetite.

Thankfully, Hawaii Food Tours is here to recharge and refuel you.

Founded by a former celebrity chef, Hawaii Food Tours will take you a journey to the best eateries in Honolulu.

They offer several guided trips throughout the city, but their most famous tour is their “Hole In the Wall” tour that specializes in getting tourists off the beaten path and into the diners and dives that only locals know about.

Are you in the mood for juicy pineapple pizza?

Have you always wanted to try a bowl of poke?

Do you crave homemade ice cream, salty crack seeds or powdered doughnuts?

Hawaii Food Tours will fill your belly with beloved dishes from Hawaii cuisine.

Best of all, since it’s a “hole in the wall” activity, it’s one of the rare non-touristy things to do in the city of Honolulu.

Enjoy authenticity and great tastes!

24. Kaka’ako

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Known as one of the trendiest neighborhoods in Honolulu, Kaka’ako is a must see for visitors who enjoy art and culture.

It has a vibrant atmosphere where young people gather for everything from outdoor concerts to food truck competitions.

Kakaako wasn’t always a picturesque place.

In fact, it used to be an industrial ghost town filled with empty warehouses and auto body shops.

Things only changed when artists started using its buildings and bridges for outdoor murals.

There was a renewed interest in the neighborhood as creatives started flocking there, and trendy businesses quickly followed its trendy artists.

Today’s Kakaako is unrecognizable from the old Kakaako.

It’s fresh and colorful, and you can’t turn a corner without seeing a bar, bistro or microbrewery.

If you’re wondering where to go in Honolulu for a cup of bubble tea, this is it!

25. Royal Hawaiian Center

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When planning your trip to Honolulu, you’ll want to know all of the best spots for shopping.

Where else can you buy bobble-headed hula dancers as souvenirs?

The Royal Hawaiian Center isn’t the only shopping complex in the city.

In fact, we’ve already talked about the Ala Moana Center, the largest shopping mall in Hawaii.

But the Royal Hawaiian Center is a bit different than the larger-than-life counterpart: It’s focused on luxury brands.

“High end” is the name of the game when it comes to the Royal Hawaiian Center.

From expensive boutiques to five-star restaurants, everything is dripping with decadence.

You don’t have to drop a lot of money to enjoy your time at the Royal Hawaiian Center.

It’s one of the major points of interest of Honolulu just because of its sophisticated design, layout, architecture and atmosphere.

You can enjoy some good old-fashioned window shopping as you wander its corridors, and who knows?

You might just find a bobble-head on sale.

Address:  2201 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA

26. Sans Souci Beach Park

Some people don’t like cliff-diving or wave-skimming.

Rather than soaking themselves in adrenaline, they just want to enjoy a nice, relaxing time at the beach.

If this describes you, Sans Souci Beach Park is the place to be.

Sans Souci Beach Park offers shallow waters and clean shorelines where you can enjoy the waterfront without needing a board, helmet or oxygen tank.

The waves are mild; the palm trees offer plenty of shade. It’s a great place to unwind in Honolulu.

If you’re looking at a list of Honolulu attractions and wondering what to do, consider Sans Souci Beach Park.

It won’t give you any near-death experiences, but it’ll provide a wonderfully rejuvenating atmosphere as you relax in on the Hawaii coastline.

You don’t have to travel to distant lands like Aruba to enjoy tropical beaches!

Address: 2863 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, Oahu, HI 96815-4016, USA

27. Chinatown

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Considered one of the four great neighborhoods of Honolulu, the “Chinatown Historic District” is one of the oldest Chinatowns in the entire state of Hawaii.

It covers more than 10 acres and is buzzing with shops, stalls and markets that celebrate Chinese culture.

Are you hungry?

Spend a few yuan and enjoy delicacies like dazhu gansi (tofu soup) and lazi ji (stir-fried chicken with chili).

Do you want some keepsakes to remember your Honolulu vacation?

Shop for good luck charms, or wrap yourself in a cheongsam to display your Chinese fashion to the world.

Chinatown is also home to some incredible landmarks that you won’t find anywhere else in Honolulu.

For example, Kuan Yin is a Buddhist temple with red columns and a green roof, and it’s filled with flowers, statues and artifacts that make its interior just as vibrant as its exterior.

It’s the kind of thing that has to be seen to be believed!

28. Waiola Shave Ice

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Shaved ice is another one of those quintessential Hawaiian snacks that you can find on every street corner.

It’s so popular that the locals have turned it into an art form.

It isn’t just ice with red syrup dumped on top; it’s a specialized dessert that combines thousands of flavors, toppings and juices.

Waiola Shave Ice  is considered one of the best places to visit in Honolulu because of its creativity in serving shaved ice desserts.

It has all of the usual flavors like cherry, mango and passionfruit, but it also shakes things up with chocolate, haupia, green tea, mochi and margarita.

You can also mix and match flavors if you’re dying for some salty plum sauce on top of your watermelon ice topped with papaya seeds.

Consider a trip to Waiola Shave Ice if you’re looking for cool things to see in Honolulu.

Even if you want to stick to well-tested flavors like strawberry, it’s fun to people-watch as they egg each other on to try something new!

Address: 2135 Waiola St, Honolulu, HI 96826, United States

29. Kualoa Ranch

You’ve seen Kualoa Ranch .

Even if you’ve not stepped foot in Hawaii, you’ve seen Kualoa Ranch.

It’s been used as a set piece for everything from Lost to Hawaii Five-O, so you’re probably quite familiar with its hills, fields and cliffs.

Its greenery stretches as far as the eye can see!

You don’t have to wander it on foot, either.

Kualoa Ranch will let you explore the grounds in a number of exciting ways, including ziplining through the trees and riding an ATV or a landrover expedition.

You can also go biking, kayaking or horseback riding.

Kualoa Ranch is about a half-hour drive from Honolulu, so we’re lying a little when we call it one of the best things to do in Honolulu.

It’s technically one of the best things to do in the greater Honolulu area.

If you have a car, however, roll down the windows and put your foot on the pedal; you won’t want to miss Kualoa Ranch.

Address:  49-560 Kamehameha Hwy, Kaneohe, HI 96744, USA

30. Sea Life Park

Located a few miles north of Honolulu, Sea Life Park is a great place for aquatic adventures.

It mixes elements of a zoo, aquarium, natural park and wildlife sanctuary, and the results are a rollicking good time for all.

What are the best activities in Sea Life Park?

It depends on what you’re looking for:

– Its most famous feature is probably its “ocean theater” where you can view tricks and shows from dolphins, penguins and sea lions.

– If you don’t mind getting wet, there are places where you can interact with live marine animals. You can swim with dolphins, splash with sea lions and wade right into the sea turtle feeding pool.

– If you’re interested in animals outside of the water, stop by the bird sanctuary or penguin habitat for drier fun.

Sea Life Park will provide all-ages entertainment for anyone and everyone who walks through its gates.

It’s one of our top 10 things to do in Honolulu for family-friendly fun, so you’ll definitely have a good time here!

Start Planning Your Trip To Honolulu

If you’re wondering what to do in Honolulu, these are some of the major points of interest in the city.

There are many, many more, so don’t feel limited by the suggestions here.

Your Hawaiian vacation can be crafted just the way you like it!

The 33 Best Things to Do in Honolulu Right Now (2023)

If you’re looking for things to do in Honolulu, you’ve come to the right place!

We’ve got a list of the best things to do — from exploring the city’s vibrant culture to soaking up the sun on its beautiful beaches.

You’ll find something for everyone here. No matter your interests, we can help you find something fun and exciting to do.

We know that you want to make the most of your time when you’re on vacation. That’s why we’ve curated a list of the best activities and attractions in Honolulu so that you can have the perfect trip.

Note: We have included a downloadable map at the end of this article that includes all of the locations mentioned in this post. Be sure to check it out!

Best Things to Do in Honolulu

1. diamond head crater.

One of the most popular things to do on Oahu is to hike Diamond Head Crater . This is one of the best hikes on Oahu and one of the easier hikes to do.

It’s about a 1.6-mile hike to the top, and it takes about 1-1.5 hours to complete (roundtrip).

The views from the top are absolutely stunning and definitely worth the effort! You will be rewarded with amazing views of Waikiki and Oahu’s South Shore.

Tip: Arrive early, preferably right after opening. This hike is probably the most popular in Oahu, which means it can get super crowded.

2. Pearl Harbor

A trip to Pearl Harbor is one of the most popular things in Honolulu for both locals and visitors alike. This is a must-visit spot when you are on the island of Oahu.

There are a few different ways to see Pearl Harbor. You can take a tour of the USS Arizona Memorial, which is free, but  reservations  are needed. The visitor center and museums are also free.

You can also take a tour of the USS Missouri Battleship, which  costs  $34.99 for adults and $17.49 for children’s general admission. 

This is a great way to learn more about Pearl Harbor and World War II.

3. Halona Beach Cove and Blowhole

Halona Beach Cove is a small, somewhat secluded beach that is absolutely beautiful. Many people usually come here to view the blowhole, while only a few go to the beach.

The highlight of this area is the blowhole. When the waves crash into the rocks, it creates a geyser of water that sprays up through a hole in the rocks. It’s cool to see and something you don’t want to miss!

To get to the beach, you have to walk down a small path (about 2 minutes) and then you’re there! The path is located to the left when you face the road.

Tip: This is yet another popular tourist spot, so try to come early or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.

4. Polynesian Cultural Center

Located about one hour’s drive from Honolulu, the Polynesian Cultural Center is a large complex that includes several different villages representing Polynesian cultures from Hawaii, Fiji, New Zealand, Samoa, Tahiti, and Tonga.

You can learn about the different cultures through various activities such as dance performances, traditional foods, and craft demonstrations.

They also offer one of the best luaus on the island, so check it out.

This is an excellent activity for families or groups of friends. It’s also one of the most popular things to do near Honolulu, so be sure to book your tickets in advance!

5. Waikiki Beach

No trip to Honolulu would be complete without spending some time at the famous Waikiki Beach. This is one of the most popular beaches in Hawaii , and it’s easy to see why.

The water is clear and the sand is pearly white, and it’s located right in the center of Honolulu.

There are plenty of beach activities to keep you busy, such as stand-up paddleboarding, surfing, surf lessons/rentals, swimming, sunbathing, and even people-watching (if you’re into that).

Remember to wear sunscreen or a rashguard as the sun in Hawaii can get pretty hot.

When you’re done with the beach, there are plenty of shopping and dining options nearby. So whether you’re looking for a relaxing day by the water or a fun-filled day of activities, Waikiki Beach is the perfect place to go.

6. Manoa Falls

Manoa Falls is one of the best waterfall hikes in Oahu . The trail is about 1.7 miles long and takes you through a lush, tropical forest.

The highlight of the trail is, of course, the waterfall at the end. The waterfall is about 150 feet tall and is a unique sight to see. Be sure to bring your camera so you can take some fantastic photos!

The hike is relatively easy but can be slippery in places (especially after it rains). Be sure to wear proper footwear and watch your step. We usually wear hiking sandals when doing this hike.

Tip: This is another popular tourist spot, so try to come early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.

7. Ala Moana Center

Ala Moana Center is the largest open-air shopping mall in Hawaii, and it’s a great place to find souvenirs, clothes, and local Hawaiian products.

The mall is enormous, with over 350 stores and many restaurants. There’s something for everyone here! And if you get hungry, you’ll be sure to find whatever food it is that’ll satisfy your craving.

If you’re looking for a place to do some shopping, Ala Moana Center is the perfect place for you. Just be sure to bring your wallet!

8. Ala Moana Beach Park

Ala Moana Beach Park is a large park that offers something for everyone. There’s a beach, a playground, food concession stands, a tennis court, and more!

The highlight of the park is the beach. This is one of the best beaches in Oahu . The water is calm and clear, with plenty of room for swimming, stand-up paddleboarding, and other beach activities.

And if you get hungry, there are plenty of food options nearby. So whether you’re looking for a place to relax or a place to play, Ala Moana Beach Park is the perfect place!

Tip: Avoid going here on weekends or major holidays as it can get quite crowded. This is a local favorite spot, so it’s best to come during the week if you do not like huge crowds.

9. Iolani Palace

Iolani Palace is the former royal residence of the Monarchy of Hawaii. It’s a beautiful building with an interesting history.

The palace is open to the public for tours, and it’s a great way to learn about the history of Hawaii. The tour takes you through the different rooms of the palace and tells you about the different Hawaiian royals who lived there.

You can do a self-guided tour or a guided tour. 

If you’re interested in learning about the history of Hawaii, Iolani Palace is a great place to start. Just  book your tickets  in advance as the tours can fill up quickly!

10. Leonard’s Bakery

A trip to Oahu is not complete without making a stop at Leonard’s Bakery.

The bakery is famous for its malasadas (a type of Portuguese donut), and they are quite delicious!

They have various filling options you can choose from, but the regular ones are just perfect in my opinion.

So if you’re looking for a delicious treat, be sure to stop by Leonard’s Bakery and try one (or ten) of their famous malasadas.

11. Waiola Shave Ice

If you are looking for the best shave ice on Oahu , go to Waiola Shave Ice.

The store has been around for over 80 years and it’s famous for its delicious shave ice. That says a lot about the quality of their product!

They have many different flavors to choose from, and you can also add ice cream or mochi balls to your shave ice.

We frequent this spot mainly due to the texture of the snow. The texture is like no other and it’s definitely worth a try!

So if you’re looking for a refreshing treat, be sure to stop by Waiola Shave Ice!

12. Marukame Udon Waikiki

If you’re looking for a delicious and affordable meal, look no further than Marukame Udon. The restaurant is famous for its fresh and handmade udon noodles.

The noodles are made right in front of you, and you can choose from various toppings. The broth is also very flavorful and some of the best we have ever had.

So if you’re in the mood for some delicious udon noodles, be sure to stop by Marukame Udon Waikiki!

Note:  This place is very popular and can get quite crowded during lunch and dinner. We have ordered to-go here multiple times, so if you prefer that option, make sure to order in advance and pick it up.

13. Tantalus Lookout

If you are looking for the best views near Honolulu, go to the Tantalus Lookout . The views here are absolutely amazing!

The best time to go is around sunset when you can see the city lights. It’s a great place to take photos too!

14. Foster Botanical Garden

The Foster Botanical Garden is a great place to see some of the native plants of Hawaii, as well as plants from all over the world. This is one of the best botanical gardens in Oahu and is also a great place to take photos.

The garden is about 14 acres, features trees planted from the 1850s, and is the oldest botanical garden in Honolulu. There is also a butterfly garden where you can see many different types of butterflies.

15. Liliʻuokalani Botanical Garden

The Liliʻuokalani Botanical Garden is another excellent option if you are in Honolulu. They are devoted to the preservation of Hawaiian plants.

The garden is free to enter, and it’s a great place to take a walk and relax. There is also a nice pond, and the gardens offer many opportunities to take gorgeous photos.

So if you’re looking for a place to see some beautiful plants and trees, check out the Liliʻuokalani Botanical Garden!

16. Kuhio Beach Park

Nicknamed the Kuhio Ponds, Kuhio Beach Park is a perfect beach for families. It’s divided by two concrete walls, making for calmer waters on both sides of the pond.

This beach is also a great place for swimming, stand-up paddleboarding, and snorkeling. And if you get hungry there are plenty of food options nearby.

17. Honolulu Museum of Art

The Honolulu Museum of Art has a wide variety of art — from traditional Hawaiian art to modern art.

It was founded in 1922 and has over 50,000 pieces of art. If you love art, the Honolulu Museum of Art is the perfect place for you!

18. Sans Souci Beach

Sans Souci Beach is a great place to go if you want to avoid the big crowds at Waikiki Beach.

It’s a small beach located in Waikiki and it’s perfect for swimming, fishing, surfing, and snorkeling.

The water here is very calm, making it the perfect choice for families.

So if you’re looking for a place to relax and enjoy the water, check out Sans Souci Beach!

Also, if you like looking for a good snorkeling place close to Honolulu, this is the place for you.

See Also: The Best Snorkeling Spots in Oahu

19. Royal Hawaiian Center

The Royal Hawaiian Center is one of the best places to shop in Honolulu. They have a variety of shops and restaurants, so you’re sure to find what you’re looking for.

If you’re looking for luxury brands, they have plenty of options. But if you are looking for more affordable brands, they have that as well!

They also have a wide variety of events and entertainment options.

So if you’re looking for a place to shop, eat, and be entertained, the Royal Hawaiian Center is the place for you!

20. Chinatown

Chinatown is a great place to go if you’re looking for great food. There are many different restaurants to choose from, so you’re sure to find something you like.

And if you want to do some shopping, there are also many different shops to choose from too.

Chinatown is a great place to experience the culture of Honolulu.

21. Honolulu Zoo

The Honolulu Zoo is a great place to go to see tons of animals. This is a fun activity to do with your whole family, especially the little ones.

They have a wide variety of animals — from lions and tigers to monkeys and parrots.

This is the only zoo in the United States that was established by grants made by a  sovereign monarch .

This zoo is also a great place to learn about the many animals. So if you love animals, be sure to check out the Honolulu Zoo!

22. Corsair Plane Wreck Dive Site

The Corsair Plane Wreck Dive Site is a great place to go if you love diving and have the skills for it. It’s located off the southeastern coast and is a popular spot for scuba diving.

The  Corsair Plane Wreck  occurred during World War II. The pilot apparently ran out of fuel but managed to land the plane smoothly and was quickly rescued. The aircraft wasn’t damaged, but it soon sunk to its final resting spot at the bottom of the sea.

Today, this is a popular place for divers and photographers alike.

So if you’re looking for a great diving spot, check out the Corsair Plane Wreck Dive Site!

Note:  This dive is for experienced divers only. Guides are highly recommended.

23. Hanauma Bay

Hanauma Bay is a great place to go if you love snorkeling. This is one of the best snorkeling places in Oahu , and it’s perfect for all levels.

Hanauma Bay is a marine life conservation district, and they limit the number of people who can visit per day.

So if you’re planning on going, be sure to make a reservation in advance.

You can make reservations within 48 hours of your preferred visit date. Make sure to wake up early as spots fill up quickly.

We made our reservation at exactly 7:00 am Hawaiian time and by the time it was 7:20 am, all spots were reserved.

24. Honolulu Beerworks

Honolulu Beerworks is a great place to go if you love beer (and food). This is a microbrewery that offers a variety of different beers.

If you are looking for some of the best handcrafted beers in Honolulu, this is it.

Honolulu Beerworks also has a great food menu. So if you’re looking for a place to drink beer and eat some great food, this is the place for you!

25. National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific

The National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific is a great place to go if you’re looking for a place to pay your respects.

This is the final resting place for many veterans and their families.

The cemetery is also a great place to learn about the history of the United States.

So if you’re looking for a place to remember those who have served, this is the place for you.

26. Bishop Museum

The  Bishop Museum  is a great place to go if you’re interested in learning about the history and culture of Hawaii.

This museum was founded in 1889 by the last descendent of the royal Kamehameha family, Charles Bishop. He founded it in honor of his late wife, Princess Bernice Bishop.

This is the largest museum in Hawaii and it has a wide variety of exhibits. It was initially established to house the royal family heirlooms of the princess and a collection of Hawaiian objects.

Today, the museum includes millions of objects and photos of the Hawaiian and Pacific island cultures.

27. Byodo-In Temple

The Byodo-In Temple is located in the Valley of the Temples Memorial Park, which is about a 30-minute drive from Honolulu.

This temple was built in 1968 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the first Japanese immigrants to Hawaii.

The Byodo-In Temple is a replica of the Phoenix Hall at the Byodo-In Temple in Uji, Japan.

The Byodo-In Temple is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Japanese immigrants in Hawaii.

The temple invites people of all faiths and it is a non-practicing Buddhist temple.

If you are looking for one of the most picture-perfect places in Oahu, this is your answer.

28. Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Hike

While located about 30 minutes from Honolulu, this hike still deserves a spot on this list.

The Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Hike is an easy hike in Oahu and is about a 2-mile round trip hike.

The Makapu’u Lighthouse was built in 1909 and is one of the oldest lighthouses in Hawaii.

This hike offers stunning views of the windward coast of Oahu , Koko Head, and Koko Crater.

29. Koko Crater Railway Trail

The Koko Crater Railway Trail is a difficult 1.6-mile round trip hike that takes you to the top of Koko Crater.

This trail is not for the faint of heart as it is very steep with an elevation gain of 1,617 ft and about 1048 stairs.

But if you’re looking for a challenge, this is your place.

The Koko Crater Railway Trail offers stunning views of the windward coast of Oahu, Sandy Beach Park, and Diamond Head.

30. Sandy Beach Park

Located on the eastern side of Honolulu, Sandy Beach Park is a great place to go if you’re looking for a place to relax.

This beach is the perfect place to swim (if the waves are calm), bodyboard, or bodysurf.

Sandy Beach Park is also a great place to watch the sunrise — if you’re a morning person, be sure to experience one of the best sunrises on the island of Oahu.

See Also: The Top 5 Sunrise Hikes on Oahu

31. Shark’s Cove

Shark’s Cove is another one on this list that’s far from Honolulu but still deserves an honorable mention.

It’s located on the North Shore of Oahu , and it is a great place to go if you’re looking for a place to snorkel.

This cove is home to various fish, turtles, and other marine life.

Shark’s Cove is also a great place to relax and take in the beauty of the North Shore.

So if you’re looking for a place to snorkel and relax, this is the place for you.

32. Kualoa Ranch

Kualoa Ranch is located on the windward side of Oahu, and it’s a working cattle ranch.

This ranch offers a variety of activities such as horseback riding, ATV tours, hiking, and more.

Kualoa Ranch is also the location of various movie and TV show filming sites such as Jurassic Park, Lost, Hawaii Five-0, and more.

So if you’re looking for a place to experience the country lifestyle on Oahu, this is the place for you.

While not located in close proximity to Honolulu, the 35-minute drive to get there is worth it.

While you are there, check out the Kualoa Regional Park located 0.7 miles from the ranch.

Here you will get fantastic views of Chinaman’s Hat (Mokoli’i Island) and the Kualoa Mountains.

33. Nu‘uanu Pali Lookout

We saved the best for last. This is one of our favorite places on Oahu.

If you are looking for one of the best views of Honolulu, go to the Nu’uanu Pali Lookout. The lookout is located on the windward side of Oahu, about a 15-minute drive from Honolulu.

The Pali Lookout offers fantastic views of Kailua, Kaneohe, Coconut Island, Mokoli’i Island, and the Ho’omaluhia Botanical Gardens.

The Ko’olau Mountain Range views here are absolutely breathtaking, and it’s one of the best views we have ever seen!

Aside from its spectacular views, the Pali Lookout has profound historical significance. It was here that King Kamehameha I conquered the island of Oahu in 1795. Many soldiers lost their lives here, and some fell off the Pali Cliffs.

In Hawaiian, pali means “cliff” and Nu’uanu means “cold,” so the Nu’uanu Pali Lookout is aptly named as it can be pretty windy and cold at the lookout. But the views are definitely worth it.

So if you are looking for a fantastic view and a bit of history, be sure to check out the Nu’uanu Pali Lookout!

Things to Do in Honolulu: Frequently Asked Questions

1. how many days do you need in honolulu.

You could probably do all the things on this list in 4 days while staying in Honolulu.

But if you want to take your time and enjoy each activity, we would recommend seven days to see Honolulu and other parts of Oahu.

2. What is the best time of year to visit Honolulu?

The best time to visit Honolulu depends on many factors such as budget, what activities are at the top of your bucket list, etc.

Summer is May-October and is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and many more activities.

Winter is November-April and is perfect for whale watching, surfing, and surfing competitions, among other things.

It all comes down to what you want to do while you’re on the island.

3. Do you need a car in Honolulu?

No, you do not need a car in Honolulu. The city is very walkable, and the public bus can take you to most places on the island.

However, if you are looking to venture out on your own and visit other parts of the island such as the North Shore and the windward coast, we would recommend renting a car for those days.

4. What is Honolulu best known for?

Honolulu is best known for its beaches, year-round warm weather, and Waikiki Beach.

5. What are some free things to do in Honolulu?

All beaches in Hawaii are public and, therefore, free. Hiking is also a great free activity while you’re on the island. Most of the places mentioned in this article are pretty affordable too. Some just require a small parking fee.

6. What is the number one thing to do in Hawaii?

The number one thing to do in Hawaii is go to the beach. Whether you’re looking for a place to relax, swim, bodysurf, bodyboard, or surf, there’s a beach for you somewhere.

Many would argue that Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head are a must-see while you’re on the island.

7. What should I avoid in Hawaii?

Some things to avoid doing in Hawaii are:

• Not respecting the Hawaiian culture
• Not wearing reef-safe sunscreen
• Underestimating the power of the ocean
• Hiking illegal trails
• Stealing sand or lava rocks and attempting to take them home
• Stepping on coral
• Touching wildlife such as turtles, monk seals, etc.
• Ignoring parking signs (don’t do this, you will get ticketed)

8. What are some activities to do with kids in Honolulu?

Honolulu is a great place to bring the family, with plenty of kid-friendly activities such as:

Visiting the Honolulu Zoo, Iolani Palace, Bishop Museum, spending the day at Ala Moana Beach Park or Waikiki Beach.

This list is just a start; there are plenty of other things we mentioned in this article that you can do with kids in Honolulu.

Map of Best Things to Do in Honolulu

The Wrap Up

Honolulu is a great place to visit for its beaches, year-round warm weather, and its variety of activities.

Whether you’re looking to spend your days relaxing on the beach or learning about Hawaiian culture and history, Honolulu has something for everyone.

We hope this list of things to do has inspired you to plan your trip to the island! Aloha!

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Hi, I'm Trysta B, a travel expert passionate about exploring Hawaii. Having visited Hawaii multiple times, I've developed a deep understanding and appreciation for the local culture, food, and hidden gems that make this place unique. As co-founder of This Travel Dream, I'm dedicated to sharing my knowledge and love for Hawaii with fellow travelers, helping them create unforgettable experiences in paradise. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned Hawaii veteran, I'm here to help you make the most of your trip!

LEARN MORE ABOUT TRYSTA

33 Best Things to Do in Honolulu Hawaii in 2024

Written By: ThePlanetD Team

United States

Updated On: January 5, 2024

When you think of Honolulu, you probably think of Koko Crater, Pearl Harbor, and Diamond Head – and maybe a few green sea turtles. Honolulu is the capital of Hawaii and is set on one of the  best Hawaiian islands.  Despite its city status, Honolulu is an absolute launchpad for exploring Oahu and all the Hawaiian islands. If you are catching an international flight, chances are you’ll be at least catching a connection in Honolulu. And there are so many things to do in Honolulu that you should stay for at least a few days.

Table of Contents

Top Things to Do in Honolulu, Oahu

In this guide, we’ll cover the very best things to do in Honolulu. You can head to Oahu’s north shore for Honolulu attractions like Waimea Valley. Or stay central in the city center with Hawaiian culture at places like the Honolulu Museum of Art and Hawaii Heritage Center. Honolulu has a range – whether you use it as a base for tours and day trips or explore the city center on foot.

Planning Your Trip To Honolulu Right Now?

Below are some of the top tours in Honolulu. Don’t forget to plan ahead when  visiting Hawaii!

Top Activities and Tours in Honolulu:

• Pearl Harbor USS Arizona Memorial (Most Popular in )
• Paradise Cove Luau (Family Favorite)
• Ultimate Circle Island Day Tour (Highest Rated)
• Doors Off Helicopter Tour (Our Top Choice)

Best Hotels in Oahu

• The Kahala Hotel & Resort  is a beautiful five-star property in Oahu on Kahala Beach.
• Embassy Suites by Hilton Waikiki Beach   is a good mid-range property situated right between Waikiki Beach and the busy strip of Kalakaua Avenue.
• The Beach Waikiki Boutique Hostel – is the perfect budget-friendly place to stay in Oahu.
• This condo  is ideally situated on the Waikiki beachfront and is a good choice if you are looking for an apartment rental.

1. Go Snorkeling and Dolphin Watching from Honolulu

When envisioning visiting Hawaii, you are probably wondering whether there are dolphins in Honolulu. The answer is a resounding yes. In fact, going snorkeling and dolphin watching is one of the best things to do in Honolulu. Honolulu has a spinner, bottle-nose and rough-toothed dolphins along its shores. So, your chances of spotting dolphins on a tour are over 99%. Sky high.

Many dolphin watching tours from Honolulu allow you to swim with the spectacular marine animals in their natural habitat. You grab snorkeling gear and an underwater camera and head out on a boat with an expert. Usually, you don’t have to go far. But going dolphin watching is a fabulous way to combine a once-in-a-lifetime activity with some general island sightseeing.

The North Shore is incredibly scenic when observed from the water.’The North Shore is incredibly scenic when observed from the water. More details are here.

2. Diamond Head State Monument

Diamond Head State Monument is easily the most recognizable natural landmark in Honolulu. Diamond Head is a vast 475-acre site home to the colossal structure of the Diamond Head Crater. The volcano has been dormant for approximately 150,000 years, and many geologists believe it to be monogenetic. Monogenetic volcanoes usually only erupt once and Diamond Head has remained dormant ever since. Read more at 17 Best Hikes in Oahu Hawaii

Book this guided tour for a taste of Hawaii that includes starting with a hike up the Diamond Head Crater followed by a drive to the North Shore. More details here

Visiting Diamond Head State Monument is one of the best, most classic things to do in Honolulu. The best way to see it is to hike the Diamond Head Trail, which takes between 1.5 hours to complete. The stairs are steep, but you get stunning crater rim views. Or, if you are feeling really luxurious, you could book a helicopter tour for an aerial view – some Oahu helicopter tours even offer doors on or off experiences.

3. Visit Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial

Visiting Honolulu, Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial is a rite of passage. The Pearl Harbor National Memorial is one of the most tragic World War II sites. It pays respects to the soldiers that died in an attack on a US naval base. Orchestrated by the Imperial Japanese Navy Air Service, it is one of the most heinous attacks in all of world war history. The tragedy is considered one of the most impactful events of the world war. And visiting in person is a humbling, historical experience.

Both national memorials have museums that are free to enter. The National Park Service offers daily tours and programs should you want a more immersive insight into the tragedy. The informative aspect makes a huge difference in our opinion, providing an opportunity to visit a tragic site and learn.

Get your tickets in advance and guarantee your entry. Tickets include boat ride to the USS Arizona, a tour of the visitor’s center, and short film. This includes free cancelation up to 24 hours in advance

4. Spend an Evening at the Paradise Cove Luau

Culture is a must when visiting Honolulu. And to embrace authentic Hawaiian culture, you can spend an evening at the Paradise Cove Luau. A luau is a traditional, festive Hawaiian feast with music and dancing. Luaus are celebratory in Hawaiian culture and have been used for centuries to celebrate things like weddings, birthdays, and even victories in battle.

The Paradise Cove Luau is approximately 3-hours long and includes food and drink. The event is held at Ko Olina Resort, and guests can marvel at performances from fire and hula dancers. The atmosphere of celebration is totally infectious. And if you want a cultural way to spend an evening, visiting the Paradise Cove Luau is one of the best things to do in Honolulu.

Secure your set at book in advance here – Enjoy a welcome Mai Tia and buffet dinner as you watch the sunset and entertainment. Luau includes hula dancers, fire twirlers, and Hawaiian musicians. Optional round trip transportation can be booked from your hotel.

5. Relax at World-Famous Waikiki Beach

Waikiki Beach, and indeed the Waikiki District as a whole, are immensely famous for surfing. The palm-lined shores backed by rows of glitzy high-rises might look inconspicuous. However, Waikiki Beach was home to the world-famous surfer Duke Kahanamoku. Surfers flock worldwide to try its surf for themselves.

Surfer or not, you can enjoy the Waikiki Beach scenes. Waikiki Beach has stunning views of Diamond Head. Plus, you can watch the surfers shredding and ripping the waves. The water is such a beautiful, pastel shade of light blue – a beautiful backdrop for a free surfing show.

6. Enjoy Snorkeling with Sea Turtles on the North Shore

‘Spot green sea turtles’ is on most people’s to-do lists. And Oahu is the perfect place to tick off your snorkeling with sea turtles dream. While technically, this isn’t one of the things to do in Honolulu, it is an easy day trip up to the North Shore and its sea turtle hot spots. Laniakea Beach (unsurprisingly named Turtle Beach) is the best spot for spotting sea turtles, who often laze along the beach. If you pack snorkeling gear, you can take to the waters too to see if you get lucky with any swimming nearby.

Laniakea Beach is mainly a hot spot for Hawaiian green sea turtles. This turtle is native to Hawaii and weighs over 300 pounds – they are the world’s largest hard-shelled sea turtles, often growing up to four feet in length. Definitely bring a waterproof camera ( GoPro is our top choice ) and snorkeling gear for this activity. Or book an organized tour and let somebody else do the planning.

7. Join a Circle Island Tour from Honolulu

Circle island tours are one of the most popular things to do in Honolulu. They are a great idea if you only visit Oahu for a few days. A circle island tour runs from the Polynesian Cultural Center (more on that later) .  It takes visitors around the highlights of Oahu in a jam-packed full-day tour. Starting at 6:45 am, you won’t return to your hotel until the late evening. But honestly, the amount of Oahu attractions you tick off makes it worthwhile.

Circle island tours include Diamond Head, Hanauma Bay Lookout, the Dole Plantation, Pali Lookout, North Shore beaches, and more. It gets its name simply because the tour completes a full circle of Oahu. Time-effective and exciting, a circle island tour from Honolulu is easily one of the best things to do if you are short on time.

This highly rated 10-hour tour takes you on a journey to see all the top Honolulu attractions including Amelia Earhart Point, Halona Blowhole, “From Here to Eternity” Beach, and Valley of the Temples. This tour includes lunch at Fumis Shrimp Stand and then more sightseeing in the afternoon to Waimea Valley, the Arboretum, and Dole Pineapple Plantation. More Details here.

8. Go Hiking at Manoa Falls

Manoa Falls is a stunning waterfall that drops a staggering 150 feet in a dramatic single drop. It is the sort of waterfall that influencers flock to pose in front of for pictures and is an absolute natural landmark to visit from Honolulu on a day trip. Manoa Falls Trail is the way to access the falls. The 1.6-mile Manoa Falls Trail takes approximately an hour to complete as a round-trip. It leads hikers through the aesthetic bamboo jungle and tropical scenery.

While you can technically swim in Manoa Falls, we wouldn’t recommend it. As a word of warning, it does carry a threat of Leptospirosis, which can cause you flu-like symptoms for up to two weeks – not what you need for your trip. Stick to photographing the falls instead, and you’ll have a better time.

9. Street Art in Downtown Honolulu

Downtown Honolulu is an absolute hot spot for street art. The little neighborhoods, like Kaka’ako, dotted around the outskirts of Downtown, are full of colorful street art. The best way to embrace it is to simply explore the Downtown areas on foot, discovering street art accidentally as you go. Or alternatively, book a street art tour and squeeze all the best sites into a few hours. This way, you get expert information on the artwork too.

Whether you explore street art independently or by tour, it is a fantastic way to embrace the artistic side of Honolulu. Grab a coffee and take your time. Admiring, photographing, and interpreting street art is one of the best things to do in Honolulu.

10. Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve

Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is a beautiful park famous for its coral reefs and marine life. If you want a snorkeling spot with colorful and varied underwater scenery, Hanauma Bay is your best bet. You can see so many different types of tropical fish and plant life. And besides, the curved sands and bright green shape of the Hanauma Bay Ridge jutting up makes it one of the most aesthetic snorkeling spots you could ever choose.

Book this highly rated tour to avoid parking and driving hassles. This professional tour includes snorkeling gear, and round-trip transportation from Waikiki hotels. More details here.

Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is a beautiful place to visit from Honolulu. The best thing is that it is just a 20-minute drive from Honolulu city center, located on the city’s far east outskirts. The journey is an hour and 20 minutes by public transport but only involves a single bus – nice and convenient.

11. Shop at the Ala Moana Center

A benefit of a city break is the retail opportunities. Who doesn’t love a bit of shopping as a holiday treat? This four-level shopping center is packed with stores and food courts. The vibe is upscale, and you’ll find stores like Gucci along its shiny corridors. So there is a chance for luxury designer shopping if that’s what you are into. However, it does balance out a little. There are more affordable shops and independent gift shops for picking up Honolulu souvenirs as well.

12. Visit the Iolani Palace

The Iolani Palace is one of the most essential historical things to do in Honolulu. The 19th-century palace is the home of Hawaii’s last monarchs and is a time capsule of vital Hawaiian history. Queen Liliuokalani was the final monarch on the Hawaiian throne and was overthrown by a military coup in 1893. The trend towards pro-American sentiment meant that the Queen’s rejection of the constitution placing limits on her powers quickly turned her enemies sour. The dramatic exit of the monarch from Ionali Palace is an essential part of Hawaiian history and important for visitors to fully understand and acknowledge.

Iolani Palace now runs tours and exhibits throughout the grounds. The palace has undergone meticulous restoration and is like a time capsule to its early days.

13. Polynesian Cultural Center

Visiting the Polynesian Cultural Center is one of the best things to do in Honolulu to embrace Hawaiian culture in a single experience. The center is a colossal venue dedicated to preserving the country’s culture and heritage practices. You can book to experience luaus and other exciting live shows. Or alternatively, book tours that leave from the Polynesian Cultural Center and whisk you around Oahu on a mission to sightsee and connect with the island.

The Polynesian Cultural Center does a precious job in terms of cultural preservation. It is also fascinating for tourists as it always has something to experience, learn, and appreciate. Located right in the center of Honolulu, it is easy to access on foot or public transport, depending on your location.

14. Taste Malasadas at Leonard’s Bakery

Malasadas are a traditional Portuguese doughnut and an absolute must-try for any visitors to Honolulu with a sweet tooth. Why are malasadas considered authentic Hawaiian cuisine, you might rightfully wonder? Well, malasadas were brought over by Portuguese laborers who came to work on the Hawaiian plantations around the late 1870s. The small, deep-fried doughnuts are famous for their fluffy center. Sometimes they come with fillings, and occasionally plain – just coated in a sugar dusting. Honestly, they are delicious either way.

Leonard’s Bakery is situated on Kapahulu Avenue, right in the middle of the city center, so it is easy to access. The bakery has been baking sweet treats since 1952 and is considered a historic venue in the city.

15. Relax at Kuhio Beach Park

Relaxing at Kuhio Beach Park is one of the most laid-back things to do in Honolulu. If you choose the right section of beach, protected by a large pier, the water is so calm that it is perfect for swimming. You can take a serene dip and sunbathe on the shores with a book. Or alternatively, you can walk further along the beach to watch the surfers in the rougher section. Whether you want to relax swimming or relax surfer watching, Kuhio Beach Park is a chilled place to head with a friendly atmosphere.

The beach park is also backed by the scenic Sheraton Boardwalk. If you want more active relaxation, grab a coffee and take a sunny stroll along the boardwalk with ocean views.

16. Get Caffeinated at the Best Honolulu Coffee Shops

Hawaiian coffee is a big deal, and visiting coffee shops is one of Honolulu’s best things to do if you are a caffeine fan. Hawaiian coffee comes from many different beans. A popular type is Kona coffee, grown on two volcanoes on the nearby Big Island. Kona coffee is often described as caramel or chocolate flavored. And the coffee is so sought-after that it is one of the most expensive coffees in the world.

A prime spot to sample this national delicacy is at Honolulu Coffee Experience Center. Visitors can observe the roasting process and try out some of the best brews with a coffee-tasting experience. Of course, a gift shop and cafe are onsite if you want to try a brew properly or purchase anything as a souvenir.

17. Marvel at the Halona Blowhole

Halona Blowhole is really cool. Located on the far outskirts of Honolulu, it takes around 20 minutes to drive or approximately 2 hours by public transport. The blowhole is worth the journey, though, as it shoots water up to 30 feet into the air. The seawater is pushed through a lava tube at force, which channels it into a scenic cove at pressure – exploding impressively into the air. As far as natural attractions go, this one is enjoyable.

You’ll find the Halona Blowhole Lookout next door to the blowhole site. We suggest heading here for the best views. Try to visit at high tide for the best, most impressive water explosions. And make sure to bring a camera and plenty of patience. Watching the blowhole is a lot like watching a geyser erupt. It isn’t always predictable when it will explode.

18. Honolulu Museum of Art

Honolulu Museum of Art is situated in the middle of Honolulu city center, right next to Thomas Square. It is a really substantial gallery, with over 50,000 pieces of artwork for you to admire. Again, keep the Honolulu Museum of Art in mind for a rainy day or even an oppressively hot midday. Entirely indoors and in the shade, it is a perfect indoor activity in Honolulu.

The Honolulu Museum of Art isn’t one of those haughty museums suited only to art enthusiasts. The museum is well-suited to anyone with an eye for aesthetics or an interest in Hawaiian art and history. The museum has a mix of paintings, sculptures, and general artifacts. There are some big names, too, with artwork from Monet, Van Gogh, and Picasso. The combination of local artists and huge names is a unique balance. Don’t forget to leave time for a coffee at the end – the best way to process all the artwork you’ve admired.

19. Kualoa Ranch

Kualoa Ranch is a 4000-acre nature retreat. And as if that wasn’t impressive enough, it is also where certain scenes from Jurassic Park were filmed. Most of Jurassic Park was filmed on the nearby island of Kauai, but Kualoa Ranch was used for specific scenes like the stampede. If Kualoa Ranch’s scenery is good enough for Hollywood, it is definitely good enough for visitors to Honolulu. Better yet, it is just a single, one-hour bus journey from Honolulu city center or a 30-minute drive if you rent a car.

At Kualoa Ranch, you can sightsee the beautiful landscape and movie scenes. You can also ride on its zipline or take an ATV tour around the retreat. It is an exciting place to visit with stunning views, and you can’t be disappointed by its classic, bright green mountains.

20. Nu’uanu Pali Lookout

Nu’uanu Pali Lookout is one of the most stunning lookouts in all of Oahu, if not Hawaii. You get views of the coastline, surrounding green mountains, and dizzying cliffs below from the fenced vantage point. It is also of important historical significance, marking the site of a legendary 1795 battle.

A warrior named Kamehameha began an ambitious mission to take over all the Hawaiian islands in 1783. When the king of Oahu died in 1794, his two sons started a civil war for the crown. Kamehameha heard of the conflict and arrived in Oahu ready to take advantage of the monarchy’s weak position. A battle arose, and eventually, the Oahu warriors ended up in a compromised position – trapped between Kamehameha and his army and the cliffs by the Nu’uanu Pali Lookout. The skulls later found at the bottom of the cliffs show that over 800 warriors perished, falling to their deaths.

The Pali Lookout is an important activity when visiting Honolulu. The importance of Hawaiian history and the Oahu scenery’s vantage point makes it one of the most popular things to do in Honolulu.

21. Bishop Museum

The ‘Bernice Pauahi’ Bishop Museum is a specialty museum in the center of Honolulu. The museum was founded by Charles Reed Bishop in honor of his wife, Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop, who was the royal family’s last descendant. The Bishop Museum is packed with heirlooms from the Hawaiian Royal Family. It is one of the most important slices of history in the archipelago. The story behind the Bishop Museum makes it even more endearing – created out of love, adoration, and recognition of not only a wife but a rightful monarch.

It is not only royal history but also a natural history and cultural museum. You’ll find natural history specimens and cultural artifacts, not just nods to the Hawaiian monarchy.

22. Corsair Wreck Dive Site

Scuba diving down to the Corsair Wreck site is one of the most unusual things to do in Honolulu. The WWII aircraft was a tragedy, now turned artificial reef and place of environmental protection. While the pilot survived, the aircraft could not be brought to the surface and remained sunk, non-buoyant, at the bottom of the sea despite remaining perfectly intact. However, what was a frustrating loss of equipment is now a beautiful dive site.

The Corsair Wreck is home to eels, tropical fish, and coral. Sometimes, divers can also catch glimpses of larger marine life, like passing dolphins or sea turtles. The wreck is eerie. Basically, you are in for a real treat if you’ve never seen an aircraft wreck before. The wreck is definitely atmospheric. You’ll have to be an advanced diver, too, since you’ll be tackling strong currents and dropping to a depth of around 100ft.

23. Trek Along the Koko Crater Trail

The Koko Crater Trail is frequently named as one of the top things to do in Honolulu. Don’t be fooled; this trail is not for the faint-hearted. The route takes you up an abandoned railway track and takes around 30 minutes if you are fully fit. This crater trail is notoriously challenging but scenic and impressively uses thousands of railway ties to provide a ladder-like contraption to assist hikers to the top.

It is not only the challenge and novelty of the hike that makes it worthwhile, though. The Koko Crater Summit is stunning, and you get beautiful views over Honolulu Harbor below.

24. Shangri La Museum of Islamic Art, Culture, and Design

Shangri La Museum of Islamic Art, Culture, and Design is entirely created from the heiress Doris Duke’s private collection of Islamic art. Called the Museum of Islamic Art for short; this museum is set in a beautiful estate – giving it a residential, intimate feel. You can take guided tours around the collection from Wednesdays to Saturdays between 9 am and 1:30 pm. There are exhibitions dotted around the estate if you want to experience things more independently.

The Shangri La Museum of Islamic Art is definitely one for art enthusiasts. You must appreciate the story behind the collection and the pieces’ rarity to get the most out of this attraction.

25. Aloha Tower

Aloha Tower is iconic. The 10-story lighthouse is one of Honolulu’s most recognizable structures. It dates back to 1926, so it is revered as historical architecture. You can, of course, admire the Aloha Tower from outside at street level. However, to really experience the building, we suggest heading up to the 10th-floor observation deck. You get a taste of the Aloha Tower interior and fantastic views over Honolulu from here. The observation deck wraps 360 degrees around the top of the tower, leaving you with pretty unlimited views.

26. Waiola Shave Ice

Trying shave ice, otherwise known as Hawaiian shave ice, is one of the tastiest things to do in Honolulu. The recipe is a delicious concoction of shaved ice mixed with syrup and sugar. The ice comes in different flavors and colors, served in a little cone with a spoon. Rather than being watery like a slushie, shaved ice is more crisper and delicate. The result is something much like ice cream but more refreshing and intense in flavor. Unsurprisingly, it is a massive hit amongst both tourists and locals.

Waiola Shave Ice is a tiny grocery store renowned for its shave ice. It is situated in the McCully-Moiliili neighborhood of central Honolulu. It is easily spotted by its giant shaved ice statues outside.

27. Have a Picnic at Sans Souci Beach Park

A picnic at San Souci Beach Park is one of the highlights of an ideal Honolulu itinerary. San Souci Beach is a beautiful inner-city spot for sunbathing and paddling. But the stretch of wooded, bright green parkland behind it is much better suited for picnicking and finding shade. Find a shady spot under the trees and throw down a blanket to enjoy your snacks with views of the promenade and ocean in the distance.

Embracing the slow pace of life in Hawaii is really important – even if you stay in the metropolis of Honolulu. Take some time for a relaxing activity like watching the sunset or going for a picnic and Sans Souci Beach Park, and you’ll make the most of your trip.

28. Honolulu’s Chinatown

Despite being a neighborhood rather than an attraction, we just had to include Honolulu’s Chinatown on our list of things to do in Honolulu. The area is best experienced on foot, with rows and rows of Chinese markets, eateries, and architectural features to admire. Chinatown in Honolulu is as much an atmosphere as a standard attraction.

We suggest picking one of the traditional Chinese restaurants for dinner to get the most out of Chinatown. You could then catch a performance at the Hawaii Theatre Center or stop by one of the area’s leading art galleries.

29. Shop and Eat at the Royal Hawaiian Center

The Royal Hawaiian Center is another top-tier shopping center for you to consider when visiting Honolulu. Slightly different from the Ala Moana Center, the Royal Hawaiian Center only caters to a luxury crowd retail-wise – unless you want to window shop. It sells countless pieces of beautiful jewelry and luxury items. So if you want to pick up a sentimental piece of jewelry, the Royal Hawaiian Center is a fantastic place to visit.

Aside from jewelry and other retail areas, the Royal Hawaiian Center has many food stores and eateries. One of the most popular is the Cheesecake Factory. But honestly, take your time to wander around them all and pick a few different places to try some foods.

30. KCC Farmers’ Market

Will you be in Honolulu on a Saturday while visiting? If so, the KCC Farmer’s Market is an excellent activity in the morning. The market sells local produce and flowers from 7:30 am until 11 am. You can’t go wrong for that romantic farmer’s market experience. If you are in self-catered accommodation, you can pick up fresh produce for tasty meals. You can even pick up some flowers to brighten up your hotel room and press them as a souvenir to take home.

The best thing about KCC Farmer’s Market is that you can easily tick it off first thing in the morning and then spend the rest of your Saturday at a different attraction. As an early morning activity, it is one of the best things to do in Honolulu. You can even pick up fresh breakfast there.

31. Koko Crater Botanical Garden

Koko Crater Botanical Garden is within 200 acres of the Koko Crater and covers 60 acres of plants, including cacti. The garden is sometimes nicknamed Honolulu botanical gardens, one of the most popular Honolulu attractions amongst nature lovers. You can enjoy the botanical garden by hiking a 2-mile loop trail, which whisks you past all the prettiest plant life.

While visiting the Koko Crater Botanical Garden, you can hike up the Koko Crater Stairs to the summit for spectacular views. The two attractions fit perfectly together in terms of practicality. You might want to tackle this first. The pretty plant life and photogenic cacti will be welcome as peaceful, relaxing things to spot after you’ve successfully mastered the Koko Crater Stairs.

32. Ala Moana Regional Park

Ala Moana Regional Park is a 100-acre park that spills onto the shores of Ala Moana Beach, a man-made beach with highly calm waters that people flock to for swimming. The atmosphere is laidback and family-friendly. The park has plenty of well-maintained hiking paths and even a tennis court. If you want somewhere to visit central Honolulu during the day, there’s plenty to do in Ala Moana Regional Park. In short, it’s ideal for a stroll in the sun or a relaxed day out with a book if you prefer sunbathing.

Another massive bonus is that Ala Moana Regional Park is right off Ala Moana Boulevard. So if you wish, you can combine this significant urban attraction with a more laidback retreat into nature. As another top tip, Ala Moana Regional Park has beautiful cityscape views at night. Keep that in mind for a late-night view.

33. Catch Sunset at Magic Island

Magic Island is a beautiful man-made peninsula. The island juts out from the coastline of Honolulu. It is easily reached from the city center on foot or by public transport. Magic Island is home to Ala Moana Beach Park but is also one of the best sunset spots in Honolulu.

You can walk the network of scenic trails around Magic Island, which are beautiful at sunset and dusk. Or, we suggest packing a picnic and setting up camp on one of the grassy areas around the island. You can watch the sunset over the ocean, Ala Moana Beach, and the Honolulu cityscape. Bring a camera and a warm jacket or blanket – that way, you’ll enjoy the views for as long as the sunset lasts.

Things to Do in Honolulu: FAQs

Feeling up to scratch on your knowledge of the most amazing things to do in Honolulu? This is the most exciting part of your holiday: researching and planning attractions you’ll remember forever. Honolulu has varied attractions – with urban areas like Chinatown and natural regions too, including some of  Oahu’s best hikes  on its doorstep.

But chances are you still have questions about visiting Honolulu from a practical perspective. These are the answers to the questions on the tip of your tongue.

How to Get to Honolulu

To get to Honolulu, you’ll have to fly (unless you play it really unorthodox, but we’ll get to that later). The easiest way to get to Honolulu is to fly into Daniel K. Inouye International Airport. And if you are flying from the US or Pacific region, you’ll likely find a direct flight.

Some people may arrive in Honolulu as part of a cruise. If you just want a taster of the city, you can plan to book a cruise that incorporates a stop at Honolulu in its itinerary. Alternatively, you could arrange to terminate your cruise at Honolulu, disembarking and enjoying a holiday at the other end. For the really adventurous, using a cruise to reach Honolulu makes your journey more of an experience and incorporates different destinations along the way. A win, win, really.

Getting Around Honolulu

Generally, getting around Honolulu is a breeze using public transport. TheBus is a bus system that runs throughout the city. Prices start at less than $3 for a one-way journey – making it exceptionally budget-friendly. To capitalize on these low costs even more, you might purchase a HOLO pass, which cuts costs even further by introducing a cap of around $5 per day. Using TheBus is perfect. You can travel all around Honolulu and even to some of the major areas on the rest of the island, including the iconic Oahu’s north shore.

The only time public transport isn’t ideal is when you are reaching more remote areas. For instance, when trying to get to trailheads or lesser-visited attractions. In these cases, you are best hiring a car. Fortunately, this is easily done. If you plan a rough itinerary in advance, you can always hire a car for a day to cut costs and be more environmentally friendly. A car gives you tons more freedom and is generally quicker than local buses. So it might also be better for those only visiting for short periods.

If you are staying in one specific area of Honolulu (like Downtown Honolulu or Honolulu’s Chinatown), you find it easy to explore on foot. You can easily get around on foot by choosing the accommodation location wisely. And then just use a car or public transport to ‘connect the dots’ when traveling further afield. Compare car rental prices here.

Best Time to Visit Honolulu

April is the optimal month to visit Honolulu. Not only is it outside of the November to March rainy season, but it is also a shoulder season, meaning fewer tourists. April is hot, with temperatures of around 84 degrees Fahrenheit. It is also outside the June to November hurricane season, which is good to avoid if you don’t want to risk abandoning your holiday halfway through.

If you can’t visit Honolulu in April, we’d recommend September. While you take a slight risk by visiting during hurricane season, it has good weather and fewer crowds – also an ideal shoulder season. So if you can’t make April work, September is the second best time to visit Honolulu.

Can you do Honolulu in 4 days?

Yes, you can do Honolulu in 4 days. With 4 days, you can visit a handful of museums and take at least one day trip to nearby attractions in other areas of Oahu.

What is Honolulu best known for?

Honolulu is best known for being the hub of the Hawaiian islands. Most people arrive or transit there and have a citified, culture-heavy atmosphere.

How many days is good for Honolulu?

4 days is a good minimum for visiting Honolulu. However, you could easily spend a week in Honolulu if you plan day trips and tours.

Is 3 days in Hawaii enough?

3 days in Hawaii is not enough. Sure, visiting briefly is better than not visiting at all. But staying for 3 days will drastically limit your experience and not let you see all the best Hawaiian attractions.

To Conclude

There are so many things to do in Honolulu. And even if you manage to tick all of the fantastic things to do in the Hawaiian capital off, there’s plenty  to do on the island of Oahu.  

We love the variety of activities and attractions that Honolulu offers. Despite being such a vital, functional city for the Hawaiian archipelago, it has plenty of nature and authentic culture. Honolulu is far from an industrialized stopover point. Just seeing pictures of Diamond Head and the tropical fish in Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve tells you that.

Plan Your Next Trip to Hawaii With These Resources

• 17 Best Hikes in Oahu Hawaii
• 38 Best Things to Do in Oahu
• 23 Best Things to do on the Big Island of Hawaii
• Best Island to Visit in Hawaii: How To Choose

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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Top Things to Do in Honolulu, HI

Places to visit in honolulu.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Downtown Honolulu
• Diamond Head - Kapahulu - St. Louis
• Ala Moana - Kakaako
• Mililani Mauka - Launani Valley
• Good for Couples
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Adventurous
• Hidden Gems
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. ‪Diamond Head State Monument

2. USS Arizona Memorial

3. Iolani Palace

4. Pearl Harbor National Memorial

5. Battleship Missouri Memorial

6. Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve

7. Koko Crater Arch Trail

8. Waikiki Beach

9. Manoa Falls

10. Makapuu Lighthouse Trail

11. Bishop Museum

12. USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park

13. National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific

14. US Army Museum of Hawaii

15. Shangri La

16. Ala Moana Center

17. International Market Place

18. Honolulu Museum of Art

19. Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum

20. Aloha Stadium Swap Meet & Marketplace

21. Tantalus Lookout Puu Ualakaa State Park

22. Waikiki Beach Walk

23. Diamond Head Crater

24. Lyon Arboretum

25. Saint Augustine by-the-Sea

26. Ala Moana Beach Park

27. Fort DeRussy Beach Park

28. Royal Hawaiian Center

29. Statue of Duke Kahanamoku

30. Kapiolani Park

What travellers are saying.

The 39 best views, scenic lookouts, and viewpoints in Honolulu

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

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1 Diamond Head

3 Nuʻuanu Pali Lookout

4 hoʻomaluhia botanical garden, 5 tantalus lookout, 6 lanikai pillbox, 7 makapuʻu lookout, 9 makapu‘u point, 10 na ala hele: manoa falls trail, 11 lānaʻi lookout, 12 round top dr, 13 hanauma bay, 14 hanauma bay ridge hike, 15 dole plantation, 16 diamond head state monument, 17 hanauma bay, 18 manoa falls, 19 byodo-in temple, 20 halona blow hole, 21 lulumahu falls, 22 halona blowhole lookout, 23 makapu‘u point lighthouse trail, 24 puʻu ʻualakaʻa state wayside, 25 nu‘uanu pali, 26 koko crater arch trail, 27 pali notches, 28 diamond head rd, 30 lagoon dr, 31 iolani palace, 32 leonard's bakery, 33 tantalus lookout - puu ualakaa state park, 34 spitting cave, 35 ʻaiea loop trailhead, 36 china walls, 37 maunawili falls, 38 nuʻuanu pali state wayside, 39 makapuʻu point lighthouse trail, top searches in honolulu, what's the weather like in honolulu.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Honolulu for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Honolulu in January
• Weather in Honolulu in February
• Weather in Honolulu in March
• Weather in Honolulu in April
• Weather in Honolulu in May
• Weather in Honolulu in June
• Weather in Honolulu in July
• Weather in Honolulu in August
• Weather in Honolulu in September
• Weather in Honolulu in October
• Weather in Honolulu in November
• Weather in Honolulu in December

Explore nearby places

• Sunset Beach

All related maps of Honolulu

• Map of Honolulu
• Map of Kahala
• Map of Aiea
• Map of Kaneohe
• Map of Pearl City
• Map of Ewa Beach
• Map of Waimanalo
• Map of Kailua
• Map of Hawaii Kai
• Map of Waipahu
• Map of Mililani
• Map of Kapolei
• Map of Kaaawa
• Map of Ko Olina
• Map of Wahiawa
• Map of Hauula
• Map of Waianae
• Map of Laie
• Map of Makaha
• Map of Haleiwa
• Map of Waialua
• Map of Kahuku
• Map of Mokuleia
• Map of Pupukea
• Map of Sunset Beach
• Map of Kawela Bay
• Map of Maunaloa
• Map of Kualapuu
• Map of Hoolehua
• Map of Kaunakakai
• Map of Kalaupapa

Honolulu throughout the year

• Honolulu in January
• Honolulu in February
• Honolulu in March
• Honolulu in April
• Honolulu in May
• Honolulu in June
• Honolulu in July
• Honolulu in August
• Honolulu in September
• Honolulu in October
• Honolulu in November
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15 Of The Most Beautiful Places on Oahu

If you love gorgeous tropical flowers and cascading waterfalls , oahu is a photographer’s dream find out some of the most beautiful places on oahu that will make you fall in love with hawaii, this most beautiful places to go in oahu post was written by hawaii travel expert marcie cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

Some of the most beautiful places in Oahu are the lush, green mountains and golden, sandy beaches .

Oahu is one of the best Hawaiian islands for photographers because it has such a variety of beautiful backdrops and amazing Oahu attractions.

You’ll find enchanting hiking trails and beautiful farms, tranquil beaches , and awe-inspiring temples. Oahu really is home to a seemingly limitless supply of magical places most people only dream of!

Below you can read about 13 of the most beautiful places to visit in Oahu. They’ll definitely have you doing a double-take, deciding if that vision of beauty is real or just a figment of your imagination.

You’ll want to hit up these Hawaiian Island attractions for the best views in Oahu. These are seriously the best Oahu Instagram spots !

First trip to Oahu ? Get my top Oahu travel tips !

Don’t have time to read a bunch of Hawaii blog posts and reviews? Here are some of our top picks for visiting Oahu.

Popular Oahu Tours/Activities

• Kualoa Ranch UTV Tour (this is a fun adventure with the prettiest views)
• Full Pearl Harbor Tour (this is the BEST way to do everything at Pearl Harbor)
• Hawaii Bucket List Tour (you get to pick where you stop on this custom Oahu Circle Island tour)
• Toa Luau (this is my all-time favorite Oahu luau)
• CLIMB Works Ziplining (this is the longest zipline on Oahu)
• Book a Photo Shoot (this is a Hawaii souvenir you’ll treasure forever)

Favorite Oahu Resorts/Hotels

• Hilton Hawaiian Village (this is our favorite Waikiki resort because of the amazing pool area and nearby restaurants)
• Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa (this is a splurge that is totally worth it)
• Royal Hawaiian Hotel (this is a luxury resort in Waikiki that is pink and gorgeous)

Want to Rent a Car in Hawaii? One of the best places to rent a car in Hawaii is Discount Hawaii Car Rental because they get the best rates from top national companies like Alamo, Dollar, Thrifty, Avis, Enterprise, Budget, and Payless.

Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Oahu Itinerary complete with daily schedules, kid-friendly activities, and travel hacks? Click the button below.

Click here for step-by-step Oahu travel planning help

Most Beautiful Places on Oahu

Oahu is full of stunning natural wonders and scenic lookouts. You won’t have to go far to take in epic views!

1. Lanai Lookout

The breathtaking Lanai Lookout is often overlooked, but it’s one of the coolest Oahu island attractions.

What’s really special about this lookout are the stunning lava formations.

And the dazzling blue waves crash into the rock formations creating one of the greatest photo opportunities on Oahu.

At Lanai Outlook you may just be lucky enough to witness humpback whales frolicking off the coast!

2. Laniakea Beach

Also known as Turtle Beach , Laniakea Beach hard not to get excited by the giant green sea turtles that bask in the sun. They call this area home, so enjoy the sight, but don’t disturb them!

Laniakea Beach is part of the 7 Mile Miracle . This is a stretch of beaches all with an the perfect surf, sand, and shoreline found anywhere on Earth.

It’s a place of great beauty that people come from all over the world to see. Plus it’s a fun Instagram spot on Oahu’s North Shore.

Book a Family Photo Shoot

Whenever we travel to Hawaii, we almost always book a family photo shoot with Flytographer. They are super easy, affordable, AND it guarantees that I’ll be in some photos. You can get $25 off if you book through this link or use the code HAWAIITRAVEL.

3. Tantalus

Puʻuohiʻa, is also known as Tantalus, is a botanical paradise. It’s also popular with cyclists , hikers , and a birdwatchers. It’s one of the most Instagrammable places in Oahu.

Few places on Oahu retain the mystery as Tantalus has.

Tons of kukui and banyan trees line the mountainous road where you might see mongooses crossing!

Enjoy the sound of shama thrush singing in the trees covered in giant vining philodendron leaves. It’s a peaceful and woodsy place to enjoy a walk.

Tantalus is one of the last places protected by the growing tourism industry. Islanders say it reminds them of old Hawaii or even the Garden of Eden.

4. Ka’a’awa Valley

Ka’a’awa Valley is one of Oahu’s most beautiful valleys and is largely untouched by modern development. That’s what makes it one of the top Oahu tourist attractions for photographers.

In ancient times, it was considered to be one of the most sacred places on Oahu.

The Ka’a’awa Valley has been used for location filming for more than 50 major motion pictures and television productions.

So if you feel like you’re in Jurassic Park, it’s because you are! Don’t worry though, it was just a movie, right?

5. Byodo-In Temple

The non-denominational temple grounds of Byodo-In Temple are a lush paradise nestled in a cleft of the Nu’uanu Pali cliffside.

The Byodo-In Temple grounds include meditation areas and a large reflecting pond with hundreds of Japanese koi. There are stunning statues, small waterfalls, and even wild peacocks.

It’s one of the most beautiful places in Oahu Hawaii to just get away from it all. And because it’s hidden away, it’s a popular place to take photos. Check out my full Byodo-In Temple guide .

6. Kaneohe Sandbar

Kaneohe Sandbar is a collection of exposed islets surrounding coral reefs and is the only such place in all of Hawaii.

It’s a very narrow beach protected by a coral reef. At low tide it’s a beautiful bright white beach with calm, waist-high water.

Kaneohe sandbar is surrounded by the striking Ko’olau Mountains, features crystalline turquoise waters, and fine white sand. It’s truly a picturesque slice of paradise!

7. Maunawili Falls

If you’re looking for an amazing Oahu hike to a waterfall, Maunawili Falls has so much character.

There are many gorgeous Oahu waterfall hikes are gorgeous, but this is one of my favorite!

It has several clearings that open up the valley and then you realize just how deep in the jungle you are. It’s a beautiful place to get away from the city.

8. Waikiki Beach

Even if you’re not a fan of crowds, you can’t deny that Waikiki Beach is a beautiful part of Oahu.

But if you head to the eastern part of the beach, closer to Diamond Head, you’re in for a real treat! It’s actually one of my favorite places in Oahu.

Here, it’s much less crowded. You’ll get to enjoy this amazing beach without having to fight for a spot for your towel.

And the views of Diamond Head are simply gorgeous. It’s no wonder it’s one of the top Honolulu attractions!

9. Kualoa Ranch

Technically the Ka’a’awa Valley and Kualoa Ranch are in the same space. But I decided to separate them for this post because they offer different experiences.

Kualoa Ranch is in the perfect spot to see mountains on one side and coastline on the other.

The ranch has some of the best activities in Oahu, like movie tours, ATV rides , and jungle treks.

It’s also a popular Oahu wedding destination, and it’s absolutely gorgeous! It’s truly one of the must-do attractions in Oahu island.

10. Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden

You might have seen Instagram photos of people standing on an empty road in Hawaii. chances are it was taken at Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden on Oahu.

It’s recently become one of the top tourist attractions in Oahu. It’s hands down one of the top places to see in Oahu!

Now, technically you aren’t supposed to take photos standing in the road. But, that doesn’t mean it’s not still one of the top beautiful Oahu Instagram spots.

Here, you’ll see lush gardens right up against the mountain and it’s enough to make any photographer fall in love.

There are also several other places to take photos here, like from the parking lot or service road. It’s no wonder it’s one of the top attractions in Honolulu.

11. Crouching Lion

If you are looking for magazine-worthy places on Oahu, Crouching Lion is it. In fact, it made the cover of Hawaii Magazine !

There used to be a few hiking trails up to Crouching Lion, but they were closed due to deaths on the trail. For your safety, I don’t recommend hiking here, though some people still try!

However, you can still take in the beauty of Crouching Lion from several places around Ka’a’wa on Oahu’s Leeward Coast.

12. The Royal Hawaiian Hotel

It isn’t a natural wonder on Oahu. But the Royal Hawaiian Hotel is seriously one of the most beautiful hotels in Hawaii.

It’s nicknamed the “Pink Palace” and you will truly feel like a princess when walking around the grounds! You’ll love the dramatic and detailed architecture. And the lobby and the grounds are all stunning.

It’s also home to an awesome Waikiki luau that’s pretty impressive! Personally, I think this hotel is one of the prettiest places in Oahu!

13. Kailua Beach

If you are looking for one of the best beaches on Oahu, Kailua Beach will be at the top of your list. It’s one of the best places to go in Oahu.

Here, you’ll find powdery sand and clear blue water. It’s definitely a great stop on your sightseeing in Oahu tour of the island.

Plus, you can see Chinaman’s Hat, a little island right off the coast.

14. Waimea Valley

Another amazing North Shore Oahu spot is Waimea Valley (also home to Waimea Falls). This valley actually has a cultural garden you can walk through.

But, the reason you’ll want to head to Waimea Valley is to do the short hike to Waimea Falls. This is one of the few Oahu waterfalls you can swim in.

15. Nu’uana Pali Lookout

If you’re driving around Oahu on a circle island tour , you’ll definitely want to park at Nu’uanu Pali Lookout to take in the epic view.

This place is the site of an important battle in Hawaiian history and that’s worth the stop alone. However, it’s also just an incredibly gorgeous view of Oahu.

Just be prepared, because it’s a VERY windy spot! It can feel like you’ll fly away. But, that’s also fun for photos!

Hire an Oahu Vacation Photographer

If you really want to take advantage of the most beautiful places to visit on Oahu, consider hiring a vacation photographer. Check out the latest prices and more details.

While we’ve used a lot of Oahu vacation photographers throughout the years, some of my favorite experiences have been through Flyto grapher .

They are a concierge vacation photography website where you can find photographers almost anywhere in the world. Check out our Oahu photoshoot HERE .

Flytographer makes it easy to choose the right photographer for your vacation destination. You can read all about their photography style, favorite places to shoot, and scroll through their portfolio.

And the booking process is simple and quick. Choose the photographer you like and pick your preferred dates. Then, Flytographer will check availability and get back to you with a proposed plan.

If your favorite photographer isn’t available, they’ll check to see if another photographer can do your shoot.

What I love most about Flytographer is that they’re FAST! We sometimes receive our photos before the end of our trip!

SAVE $25 ON YOUR FLYTOGRAPHER OAHU VACATION PHOTOGRAPHER

First-timers will save $25 off their first Flytographer photoshoot if they use my affiliate link.

They specialize in proposals, engagement, maternity, and family photography. It’s perfect for anniversaries, special occasions, or simply just because! And you can meet that at any beach or cool attractions in Oahu.

FAQ about Beautiful Places on Oahu

Waikiki is one of the most popular Oahu places to visit and it’s also really pretty. There are beautiful parks and iconic golden sand beaches. Or you can walk toward the Diamond Head side to get away from the crowds.

Oahu truly has something for every traveler. There’s world-class shopping, epic hiking, incredible diving, and an exciting nightlife , and more! And there are awesome family-friendly Honolulu tourist attractions.

Winter is definitely the rainy season in Hawaii . If you want to minimize the chances of it raining on your Oahu vacation, aim to travel from mid- April to September .

Wrap Up on the Most Beautiful Places on Oahu

And there you have some of my favorite beautiful places in Oahu! Whether you are looking for Hawaii points of interest, Oahu secret spots , or the best Oahu Instagram spots, now you have inspiration.

Looking for more Oahu Travel Resources for when you visit Oahu? Find out the best things to do in Waikiki , my North Shore Travel Guide , and fun things to do in Haleiwa !

16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Waikiki

Written by Meagan Drillinger Updated Dec 22, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Meagan Drillinger visited the sights of Waikiki in January of 2023.

Waikiki is perhaps one of the most famous beach resort destinations in the world. The sun-bleached, beachy stretch of Honolulu overlooks the South Sea and is the most popular place in Hawaii for tourists . Sandwiched between downtown Honolulu and Diamond Head Crater , Waikiki is truly the heart of Honolulu and Hawaii in general.

The highest concentration of hotels on the Hawaiian islands can be found right here in Waikiki. You'll find them either along the beach or along Kalakaua Avenue , the main artery in Waikiki. The streets that offshoot Kalakaua Avenue are jam-packed with restaurants, shopping, entertainment, and things to do.

Waikiki is, without a doubt, the most beautiful part of Honolulu . If you like high-end beach vibes and a hotbed of energy and activity, Waikiki should be the first place to visit in Oahu, or Hawaii in general.

Plan your sightseeing adventures with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Waikiki.

See also: Where to Stay in Waikiki

1. Visit Waikiki Beaches

2. diamond head crater, 3. atlantis submarines, 4. waikiki aquarium, 5. honolulu zoo, 6. kapiolani park and queen kapiolani garden, 7. go snorkeling: explore the reefs, 8. go surfing on waikiki beach, 9. glass-bottom boat cruises, 10. kalakaua avenue, 11. international market place, 12. royal hawaiian shopping center, 13. us army museum of hawaii, 14. shangri la, 15. see the kūhiō beach hula show, 16. visit iolani palace, where to stay in waikiki for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to waikiki, map of tourist attractions & things to do in waikiki.

The main attraction of Waikiki, by far, is the two-mile sand strip along the oceanfront. Waikiki has a series of beaches, almost all of which are ideal for swimming and water sports, including snorkeling, boogie-boarding, canoeing, and, of course, surfing.

The beaches begin in the west with Duke Kahanamoku Beach , named after the famous Olympic swimmer, sitting immediately in front of the Hilton Hawaiian Village . The stretch of sand extends to the east to Sans Souci Beach at Diamond Head . Beaches overlap one another so smoothly that tourists find them indistinguishable.

Just past Kahanamoku Beach is Fort DeRussy Beach Park, a lovely spot that offers a grassy area for picnics and recreation. This is followed by the small Gray's Beach and then the Royal Hawaiian Beach , which is without a doubt the most famous and crowded part of Waikiki. Beachgoers will find most of the area's amenities centered around this area, including catamaran rentals, outrigger canoes, and surfing lessons, as well as several beach shacks.

Next comes Kuhio Beach Park , also known as Prince Kuhio Beach or "The Ponds," a nickname that was the result of cement wall enclosures. These have created calm swimming areas that are ideal for younger swimmers. Beyond this is Kapiolani Beach Park and Sans Souci Beach.

Additional beaches, located outside of Waikiki proper , include the small Kaluahole Beach; Diamond Head Beach Park; Kuilei Cliffs Beach Park, made somewhat dangerous because of high waves; Kaalawai; Kahala Beach, where The Kahala Hotel & Resort is located; and Wailupe Beach Park, on the western side of the artificial peninsula of the same name.

• Read More: Top-Rated Beaches in the Honolulu Area

Waikiki is close to some of the best hiking in Oahu, but perhaps the most iconic hiking trail in Waikiki is the hike up Diamond Head Crater. Diamond Head Crater, also known as Le'ahi in Hawaiian, is the now-extinct volcano to the east of Waikiki and is one of the symbols of Oahu and Honolulu.

The magnificent piece of land is absolutely gorgeous to look at. It was named Diamond Head in the 19th century when sailors thought the crystals found here were diamonds. They weren't, but the name stuck.

One of the most popular hiking trails in the area is at Diamond Head State Monument . The historic trail at this state landmark rises from the floor of the crater up to the summit along a steep path. The path turns to stairs closer to the summit. At the top, visitors will have one of the most epic views of Waikiki .

Note: If you're an experienced hiker, this is a fairly easy hike. Keep in mind, however, that the trail will be very crowded and can be slow-going, as oftentimes you're walking single file.

Atlantis Submarines offers tourists the opportunity to stay dry in one of their passenger submarines while taking in the wonders of the undersea world.

While exploring beneath the surface, guides provide fascinating details about the numerous fish and other sea creatures, as well as commentary on the various man-made objects that can be seen offshore. Among these are ships and airplanes that have been sunk intentionally to help create barriers and protective places for the reef and fish to re-grow after destruction by both weather and human activities.

These submarines can be a good option for families or those who are not interested in scuba diving but would still like a truly immersive underwater experience. If you are lucky, a whale might even meander by to inspect the sub.

Address: 252 Paoa Pl, Honolulu, Hawaii

The Waikiki Aquarium educates visitors about Hawaii's unique sea life and the marine communities of the South Pacific. Exhibits feature both habitats and specific animals, with a large portion of the aquarium dedicated to the ecology and residents of coral reefs.

Within several coral reef exhibits, kids will love to learn about the relationship between clownfish and sea anemones; get an up-close look at reef predators like sharks and groupers; and view the aquarium's coral farm, which produces colonies that are used by other aquariums around the world.

Visitors also come to see the aquarium's Northwestern Hawaiian Islands exhibit, home to two critically endangered monk seals, as well as several other unique marine species only found among these uninhabited islands. Other exhibits include the underwater habitat in a mangrove forest, giant clams, jellyfish, and an assortment of rare deep-sea fish and invertebrates.

Address: 2777 Kalakaua Avenue, Honolulu, Hawaii

The Honolulu Zoo is a 42-acre zoo featuring hundreds of animals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. The grounds also include a huge variety of tropical plants, creating a botanical garden setting, which includes native Hawaiian plants. There are also native Hawaiian animals in residence, including the Hawaiian Goose, Nene, and the Hawaiian Hawk, 'Io. Additionally, there are many favorites such as tigers, elephants, monkeys, and Komodo dragons.

The Honolulu Zoo is the only zoo that sits on a royal land grant. Today, the zoo represents three tropical zones: the African Savannah, tropical rainforests, and island ecosystems. There is also a children's zoo and playground.

Address: 151 Kapahulu Avenue, Honolulu, Hawaii

This beautiful park, which King Kalakaua gave to the city and now bears the name of his wife, divides Waikiki from the small residential area on the southwest side of Diamond Head .

Kapiolani Park is Honolulu's oldest public park and also the best-loved. It contains family attractions, including the Waikiki Zoo and Waikiki Aquarium , but the main highlight for adults is the Queen Kapiolani Garden, which is home to a beautiful assortment of flowering plants. The garden contains plants from Hawaii and other parts of the world, including rare Hawaiian species.

The park is a pleasant recreational area with a large selection of leisure activities available, including tennis courts, picnic areas, and jogging paths. The Queen Kapiolani Bandstand is the finishing point of the Honolulu Marathon held each December.

Address: 3672-, 3698 Paki Ave, Honolulu, Hawaii

The island of Oahu is home to several top snorkeling spots, one of which is right on Waikiki Beach. The best spot along this long stretch of sand is on the southern end in the Waikiki Marine Conservation District , by the Waikiki Aquarium . The best place to enter the water is at Queen's Beach or the adjacent Kapiolani Park Beach, where the reef is visible from the shore.

The Waikiki Catamaran Snorkel and Turtle Tour is an excellent way for beginners to see a natural reef. This hour-long tour includes equipment and instruction, as well as a catamaran ride to Turtle Canyon , a popular reef that is known for its large population of green sea turtles. This is a good choice for beginners, with the reef lying only 20 to 30 feet below the surface, providing good views for snorkelers. Other aquatic life in the area includes a multitude of various reef fish, starfish, and even octopus.

Waikiki was brought into the international spotlight as the surfing mecca by Duke Kahanamoku, Hawaiian surfer, instructor, and Olympic swimmer. The protected bay of Waikiki makes this an ideal place for surfing, especially beginners. It is a must-do for anyone visiting Waikiki, and there are plenty of rental shops along the beach where you can grab a board and hop a wave.

For those who have no experience, surfing lessons are a great option to help you get your feet wet. Professional surfing instruction on Waikiki Beach is tailored to your experience level, helping newbies try it out for the first time and learn the right techniques from the start, or helping seasoned surfers hone their skills.

Tourists who don't want to get in the water or explore the depths by submarine can still enjoy and admire the beauty of the reefs and ocean life off the shore of Waikiki. The Waikiki Glass Bottom Boat Cruise is an accessible excursion that is a great option for those with mobility issues, including wheelchairs.

This one-hour cruise is on a 50-foot catamaran, the Haleiwa Queen , which features a transparent floor for crystal-clear viewing of the colorful fish, sea turtles, and other marine life. Tourists can also spot migrating whales and dolphins from the boat, and get excellent views of Diamond Head Crater and the city of Honolulu. The boat includes a shaded area for those who are sensitive to sun, as well as knowledgeable guides.

The heart of activity in Waikiki is found along Kalakaua Avenue. The mile-long street runs parallel to the beach from Beretania Street to the end of Kapiolani Park. If you want the highest concentration of hotels, restaurants, and shopping, then Kalakaua Avenue is where it all happens.

What's great about the avenue is that it is within walking distance of the beach but really has a city vibe to it, thanks to the luxury shopping and fabulous restaurants. You'll find the Waikiki Shopping Center , International Market Place , and the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center all along Kalakaua Avenue.

Kalakaua and the streets that branch from it are where the majority of Waikiki's top hotels are. You'll be spoiled for choice when it comes to choosing where to stay along Kalakaua Avenue. This is the place to stay in Waikiki if you want to be close to all of the highlights.

The International Market Place is a long-established collection of open-air shops in Waikiki , which take shelter under huge banyan trees strung with twinkly lights at night. Retail shops include internationally-renowned names like Saks Fifth Avenue, Burberry, and Swarovski, as well as locally famed products like Kona Coffee.

Even if you aren't in the mood for shopping, this is a lovely area for a stroll and to people-watch, landscaped with tropical plants accented by water features.

This is also where you can find nearly any type of food you are craving, with a huge selection of both quick food and full-service restaurants , which represent everything from Asian cuisine to Tex-Mex. The International Market Place also hosts a wide variety of events and activities, including food festivals, concerts, Lei-making classes, and more. This can be a fun thing to do at night in Waikiki.

Address: 2330 Kalakaua Avenue, Waikiki, Hawaii

When you think about it, it's pretty amazing that Waikiki exists as a thriving metropolis on a small sliver of beach on a tiny island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. This blip on the map is loaded with brand-name stores and designer labels, most of which can be found within the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center .

Along Kalakaua Avenue, the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center is an ultra-modern, luxury shopping complex with stores that run the gamut from watches and jewelry to boutiques, designer clothing, and restaurants.

Some of the best Waikiki restaurants and eateries are located within the shopping center, too. At any time of day, you'll find people snacking on fresh poke bowls in the food court, or stealing away into the higher-end dining rooms for excellent dinners.

More than just a shopping complex, however, the Royal Hawaiian Center has a lot of free things to do — which can be more than welcome in an expensive destination like Honolulu. Kumu (teachers) conduct hula lessons, as well as ukulele classes and instruction in lauhala weaving and lei making .

There are also regular hula shows , which feature traditional dancers in full costume, as well as an explanation of the art form's history and significance in Hawaiian culture. The center also provides live entertainment in the evening and frequent musical events featuring both traditional and contemporary Hawaiian music.

Address: 2201 Kalakaua Avenue, Honolulu, Hawaii

Among the exhibits in this small military museum are weapons from the time of the Hawaiian wars in the 18th century to the Second World War and the Vietnam War. Also on display are American soldiers' uniforms from the last 200 years, as well as enemy uniforms.

Most interest is doubtless aroused by the old Hawaiian weapons studded with sharks' teeth. These were used in battles between former Hawaiian tribes. The museum also features temporary exhibits. The collection is located in a 1909 building originally built to defend Honolulu and Pearl Harbor.

Address: 2131 Kalia Rd, Honolulu, Hawaii

The collection found at Shangri La is an unexpected one given its setting on a Pacific Island, reflecting Doris Duke's love for both the island and Islamic culture. Shangri La, built as a vacation home to Doris and her husband, is now home to the Doris Duke Foundation for Islamic Art . The collections include approximately 2,500 items that represent some of the best creative work from the Middle East, Moorish Spain, India, and Asia.

In addition to decorative arts made of glass, ceramics, textiles, and other media, several of the museum's best examples are in its architecture. Commissioned by Doris in the 1930s, when she had the house built, several large installations by Moroccan, Indian, and Iranian artists were incorporated into the construction, giving it a truly unique ambiance.

The museum is operated by the Honolulu Museum of Art, which is located nearby in downtown Honolulu. It features permanent collections and visiting exhibits that showcase not only Polynesian art but works from around the world, focusing on Asian art. Collections also include works by Monet and Van Gogh, as well as artifacts from ancient Egypt, Rome, and Greece.

Address: 4055 Papu Circle, Honolulu, Hawaii

Several evenings per week on Kūhiō Beach, visitors can watch a free hour-long traditional hula dance performed on an authentic hula mound, or pa hula . The ceremony begins with the sound of a conch shell horn and then the lighting of torches, and features local dancers. The beach is conveniently located just off Kalakaua Avenue near the Honolulu Zoo.

On the other side of the island, a little over a one-hour drive from Waikiki, the Polynesian Cultural Center is another excellent spot to see traditional dance and customs in action. It is a living history museum, with six villages, each representing the culture of a Polynesian island, including Hawaii, Tahiti, Samoa, Fiji, Tonga, and Aotearoa (Maori for New Zealand). Visitors can enjoy hands-on activities within the center, as well as watch traditional dance and participate in an authentic luau.

Waikiki is packed with history. In fact, Waikiki Beach was the spot where royal Hawaiians would welcome their visitors. You can explore the depths of Hawaiian history in Waikiki with a visit to Iolani Palace in Honolulu.

The land around Iolani Palace is steeped in Hawaiian history. King Kamehameha III built his official residence in 1845 on the grounds here, which served five Hawaiian kings until it was leveled in 1874. It was replaced with Iolani Palace in 1879, which became the home of the Hawaiian monarchs.

Today the palace's first and second floors have been restored and are open for guided tours. On the first floor, visitors will find the Grand Hall, State Dining Room, Blue Room, and Throne Room. The second floor has the private suites of the monarchs, including the room where Queen Liliuokalani was held imprisoned for eight months after her government was overthrown.

Address: 364 S King Street, Honolulu, Hawaii

We recommend these wonderful hotels near great shops and restaurants and the famous Waikiki Beach:

• Aston Waikiki Beach Tower : A residential condo-style resort, this five-star hotel is the best choice for families or those planning an extended stay. The elegant suites feature full kitchens and laundry, and property amenities include both adult and kids' pools, a game room, and a well-equipped fitness center with ocean views.
• Embassy Suites by Hilton Waikiki Beach Walk : This all-suite hotel offers one- and two-bedroom suites at mid-range rates, each featuring small kitchens and plenty of space for groups and families. The hotel is in a central location close to dozens of restaurants, Fort DeRussy Beach Park, Waikiki beaches, and plenty of shopping. Water sports equipment rentals are available on-site, and amenities include a heated pool, designated kids' pool, on-site dining and entertainment, and fitness classes including yoga.
• Lotus Honolulu at Diamond Head: This affordable boutique hotel sits in a quiet location at the far end of the beachside hotel strip near the Diamond Head Lighthouse and Diamond Head Crater. This pet-friendly hotel offers a variety of recreational rentals, including snorkeling equipment, canoes, and bicycles. Ocean- and mountain-view rooms are available, as well as well-furnished suites.
• Hilton Garden Inn Waikiki Beach: Located opposite the International Market Place and only two blocks from Waikiki Beach, this budget hotel has a rooftop pool, fitness room, and on-site conveniences, including a store and coffee shop. Soundproofed rooms allow for extra privacy and feature private balconies, as well as mini-fridges and microwaves.

Scenic Soaring

• The adventurous will not want to miss the Waikiki ParasailiLurang Experience in Oahu , a one-hour excursion that includes an eight or 10-minute parasailing experience. Perfect for couples, passengers are paired up for the flight and can even purchase photographs of the exciting moments. While other passengers are taking their turns, you can relax on the boat and watch for marine life, including sea turtles, dolphins, flying fish, and even migrating whales in the winter and spring.

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Exploring Honolulu: Tourists who are enjoying a vacation at one of Honolulu's top resorts will not want to miss out on the opportunity to explore the city and the surrounding area. Among Honolulu's top tourist attractions are several excellent museums, and natural sites like Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve and Diamond Head State Monument. The most visited place, however, is Pearl Harbor . The complex is home to the USS Arizona Memorial, an excellent visitor center, and several other historic attractions that commemorate those who lost their lives in the 1941 attack.

Beautiful Oahu: Because of the area's many things to do, visitors often choose to stay in Honolulu, but the Island of Oahu is small enough that tourists can stay in any one of the island's top-rated resorts and still visit Honolulu's attractions easily as a day trip. Surfers may want to consider staying on Oahu's north shore, where the waves are particularly gnarly. Couples might want to savor each evening's unforgettable sunset over the Pacific from the western shore, and families might be looking for a less crowded option among Oahu's most popular beaches .

Island Hopping: Tourists with enough time will want to explore beyond Oahu and visit more of Hawaii's most visited tourist attractions . To the east, a wide variety of beaches and beautiful scenery await visitors to Maui , a popular place for surfing, swimming, and snorkeling. If you want to see an active volcano, look no further than the Big Island , home to Mauna Loa in Volcanoes National Park. West of Oahu sits Kauai, home to a variety of natural attractions and things to do , including the impressive Waimea Canyon and the iconic Na Pali cliffs.

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Beaches , Honolulu

17 best honolulu beaches (+ worthwhile beaches nearby).

If there is one thing that Hawaii is known for, it is the islands’ world-class beaches. And Oahu is no exception! These are the best Honolulu beaches to add to your itinerary and upcoming trip!

If you’re traveling to Honolulu last minute, you want to ensure you have lodging/tours ahead of time! Below are some of our top picks on Oahu!

Best Tours and Activities on Oahu:

• Full-day Oahu island tour (my top recommendation to see the island!)
• Waikiki afternoon glass-bottom boat trip (a Honolulu bestseller!)
• Pearl Harbor and USS Arizona Memorial Tour (essential!)
• Paradise Cove luau (a luau that is great for families!)
• Diamond Head morning hike from Honolulu

Best Hotels and Lodging in Honolulu:

• White Sands Hotel (budget – I stayed here many nights!)
• Laylow (mid-range and stylish)
• Moana Surfrider Hotel (famous place & affordable luxury)
• Espacio the Jewel of Waikiki (luxury living in Waikiki)

Traveling to Oahu independently? Be sure to book your rental car ahead of time to ensure availability!

Please note that we included beaches that can be visited as a day trip from Honolulu, as well.  Some are north and some are on other parts of the islands.

Did we miss any amazing beaches in Honolulu? Please let us know in the comments! Thanks!

Best Honolulu Beaches

1. ala moana beach park.

Are you looking for a beach that is family-friendly and offers a little bit of everything for every person traveling with you?

Don’t forget to put Ala Moana Beach Park on your list. This 100-acre beach area has a lot in its area and is a great beach for families, solo travelers, and more.

The water close to the coast at the far western side of the beach is only waist-deep, making it ideal for youngsters to splash and play around in. However, be careful as only a few yards away, signs warn of a steep and rapid drop-off of more than 20 feet!

There are many leisure activities here. Some of which include tennis, basketball, biking, and more.

The area also has plenty of large shady trees that are excellent places for small picnics or tasty barbeques.

2. Sandy Beach

Famous for its wide and sandy shoreline, Sandy Beach is one of the most popular Honolulu beaches. The beach is not particularly well-suited for swimming, but instead, it’s amazing other water sports like surfing and body-boarding.

Waves here can be extremely strong, so be prepared when you take to the water!

For the same reason, children should not swim here. However, there are lots of other activities to participate in, such as kite flying, so it still is a fantastic place to put on your Oahu road trip itinerary.

The distance between Honolulu and Sandy Beach Park is 12 miles. The parking area is pretty large and the beach is easily accessible. Also, getting food here is not hard as there are many trucks nearby.

3. Waikiki Beach

Waikiki Beach is one of the most famous beaches not only in Hawaii but also in the entire world! And, naturally, this is an essential place to visit on your trip to Honolulu .

Waikiki can be best described as a couple of miles of gorgeous, fluffy white-sand beach, surrounded by tall palm palms and a bright blue sea.

Swimming, surfing, boogie boarding, catamaran, and outrigger canoe cruises are all popular activities there.

Overall, its proximity to downtown Honolulu, stunning views, and the fact of it being an open-access beach, makes Waikiki hard to beat.

The only disadvantage here is the big crowds, so it is better to visit this beach on weekdays if your Honolulu itinerary permits.

Most of the city’s hotels and resorts are located at Waikiki Beach. Nevertheless, it’s open to the public, meaning you can come with your beach necessities and enjoy the iconic Waikiki to the fullest!

4. Kahala Beach

Offering amazing views of the Koko Head Crater and China Walls, Kahala Beach is perfect for those looking for a quieter beach to truly unwind.

Kahala Beach is a secluded cove where you can relax amongst the quiet, sandy shores without having to deal with large crowds. With its soft sand and calm water, this beach is convenient for the whole family.

While visiting Kahala Beach, one of the most famous activities is scuba diving . Be prepared to see a lot of diverse marine life during your dive!

One of the biggest advantages of Kahala Beach is that it’s easy to reach from central Honolulu.

5. Kahanamoku Beach

Named after Olympic swimmer Duke Paoa Kahanamoku, this beach can be found on many of the “Best Beaches in Hawaii” rankings.

This beach in Honolulu is located at the widest part of Waikiki Beach, which as already mentioned above, is large and crowded.

Kahanamoku has modest waves, while the lagoon part has none, making it ideal for swimming and paddleboarding (especially for kids).

If you’re familiar with the huge Hilton Hawaiian Village Resort, do note that Kahanamoku Beach is right in front of it.

The facilities at Kahanamoku Beach include sun chairs, umbrellas, paddle boats, kayaks, and canoes.

With easy access to public facilities, as well as views of Diamond Head and Waikiki Beach, this is a great spot for all-day sun and water activities.

6. Lanikai Beach

Having the clearest blue water in Honolulu and illuminating white sand, Lanikai Beach is also considered to be one of the most picturesque beaches in Hawaii (and definitely one of the best beaches on Oahu !)

Swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking are a few of the activities available due to the calm and clear waters. Snorkeling and checking out reef fish and sea turtles are great things to do here as it is common to spot them.

Sailing and windsurfing are additional water sports available in crystal-clear waters. From January to December, an offshore reef keeps the water quiet and provides excellent swimming conditions.

Two small islands less than a mile offshore have bird sanctuaries you can kayak to, but note that only one is accessible to the public and you will need a permit to do so. 

Watching the sunrise here is especially beautiful! Early birds should definitely head to Lanikai Beach for a picturesque sunrise and a gorgeous and colorful way to start the day.

7. Hanauma Bay Nature Reserve

The Hanauma Bay Nature Reserve protects ocean life biodiversity, including 400 different fish species. That’s why this reserve is one of the best, if not the best, snorkeling spots on Oahu.

The bay is located just 10 miles east of Honolulu and was created from a collapsed volcano crater.

Because there are no hotels or other buildings trying to gain your attention, the beauty of Oahu island is extremely raw and otherworldly here.

The area only has two lifeguard posts, a shop that rents snorkeling equipment, and a café built on a hillside above the beach that sells refreshments.

Keep in mind that as this is a wildlife preserve, you must pay to enter. Adult tickets are $25, while children under the age of 12 and local residents get in for free.

Also, there are numerous shuttle vans that transport passengers from Honolulu to Hanauma Bay, making the nature reserve even more accessible!

8. Ko Olina

Ko Olina is only 30 minutes from Honolulu and has some lovely, well-kept beaches. Even though the region is dominated by a few large resorts, the beach is open to the public and offers lifeguards, bathrooms, and outdoor showers.

The beach has bright white smooth sand and light blue water.  All of the resorts located here have many restaurants, so there are plenty of dining options to head to once you’re done enjoying your beach day!

The main beach lagoon is wide with a gentle curve. Due to this, not only is the surf here extremely calm, but it’s also a highly recommended beach for children and families.

The Marriott Ko Olina Beach Club is right at the center of the crescent-shaped lagoon. The large resort also has multiple pools. This is one of the best things to do in Kapolei , a city near Honolulu!

9. Magic Island

A part of Ala Moana Beach Park, Magic Island Beach is a small but rather unique beach. It’s located on a small peninsula opposite the Ala Wai Boat Harbor, near downtown Honolulu.

Visitors love this beach because they are shielded from heavy waves by a man-made rocky reef barrier.

The Honolulu beach has clear, calm waters that are well-suited for families with kids. It’s also large with golden sand but the shoreline can be rough at times.

Overall, the sand isn’t as smooth as other beaches, so caution is needed when in the water! This beach also offers a beautiful backdrop of trees in a grassy area, making it the ideal spot for a picnic with your family!

10. Sans Souci Beach

If you’re looking for a beach that is away from the hustle and bustle of crowded Waikiki, Sans Souci Beach is a local favorite and is one of Honolulu’s nicest beaches. It is located near Queen Kapiolani, at the far end of Waikiki Beach.

Sans Souci Beach has a gorgeous palm tree-lined pathway and is an epic spot to enjoy Honolulu’s spectacular sunsets with the city skyline in the background.

Because of the calm waves and soft sand, this beach is a great place for youngsters to have fun. Don’t miss out on nearby Kapiolani Park, which is fantastic for families!

11. Waialae Beach

Waialae Beach Park is a pleasant place to visit for those who enjoy soaking up the Hawaiian sun. As windy weather and small waves dominate this area, windsurfing has gained popularity throughout the years at Waialae Beach.

Because of the rocky shoreline and shallow reef at Waialae, it is strongly advised to wear footwear when you step in the water.

Although this beach is a lot quieter than many of the nearby ones, it gets busy on weekends with local families who come to the park for picnics, swimming, and other activities.

12. Diamond Head Beach Park

Looking for a relaxing, yet fun-filled swim experience? Diamond Head Beach Park is another iconic Honolulu beach.

Diamond Head beach is located at the summit of the famous volcanic crater. It has a narrow area, making it possible for surfers to find large waves and tidepools.

This is the ultimate place ​​when you want to get away from other busy Oahu beaches and the Waikiki scene. It’s situated about a 10-minute drive away from the Hawaii capital city.

The vistas are breathtaking both from up above and from down below where you’ll find affluent properties and gorgeous gardens.

13. Makalei Beach

You can consider visiting Makalei Beach after surfing at Diamond Head Beach Park, as they’re located almost next to each other. It’s permitted to take dips in the water, but overall, Makalei is not a safe swimming area.

This location is notable for its several huge trees that provide ample shade. It’s also a good idea to bring food as there are many picnic tables nearby.

Note that to get to the beach, you must stroll through the beachside park until you reach the stone seawall that runs along the park’s seafront, then you will need to take a right.

Also, on this beach, there are a few offshore surf spots with terrifying or bizarre-sounding names like Graveyards, Suicides, Radicals, Sleepy Hollows, etc. This is one of the coolest beaches near Honolulu to add to your itinerary!

14. Sunset Beach

Located on the historic North Shore of Oahu, Sunset Beach is home to one of the world’s longest lengths of rideable surf. This beach on the North Shore is great for visiting with a family, as the beach area is large and sandy.

It is not really a Honolulu beach, but still worth visiting if you’re on the North Shore!

If you happen to be visiting in winter, you may get the chance to check out big-wave surfing with swells up to 30 feet tall, as well as some of the world’s most prestigious surf championships.

People may still watch pros ride these monsters from the safety of the coastline while snapping images of this incredible natural phenomenon.

During the summer season, the blindingly blue ocean waters are quiet and crystal-clear, making it an ideal destination for swimmers and snorkelers and a perfect day trip from Honolulu for beach-lovers.

15. Kailua Beach

Located nearly one mile up the road from Lanikai Beach, Kailua Beach Park often is named one of Hawaii’s best beaches.

The park is the ideal place to spend the day, with over three miles of light-colored sand and crystal-clear water.

Tourists like playing around in the mild waves or learning to windsurf, but the 35-acre beach park also has a volleyball court and plenty of picnic spaces.

This Oahu beach is located close to town, which has plenty of shopping, restaurants, and other fun things to do in Kailua .

You’ll find places such as Buzz’s Original Steak House and Kalapawai Market, both ideal for grabbing a quick lunch or souvenir or just spending a little time.

16. Pu’uloa Beach

Located around 25 minutes from the airport, Pu’uloa Beach Park is yet another city beach park located to the west of the city.

The beach is usually not too crowded because it is primarily a residential area. A massive stone jetty sits in the center of many curved beaches.

The sand is gritty and tan, and the beaches are vast and flat.

Because of its calm waters, it’s a good beach for enjoying the sun or swimming. Beyond the beach are plenty of picnic areas, barbecues, and a playground.

When it comes to facilities, note that Pu’uloa Beach has no lifeguards, but restrooms are available throughout the area.

17. China Walls

Located on Oahu’s south-eastern coast, China Walls is a very popular place for cliff jumping!

It’s a section of volcanic rock and in addition to being one of the most popular cliff jumping spots in the area , it’s also a popular area for surfing on Oahu.

Most of the visitors prefer to watch the skilled locals perform their stunning dives into the ocean, instead of participating by themselves.

Also, the sunsets at China Walls appear to be ten times more spectacular than everywhere else on Oahu. Obviously, that might seem a bit subjective, but the best thing to do is to check it out yourself!

We hope you found many of these beaches in Honolulu are a good fit for your itinerary!

Did we miss any amazing Honolulu beaches or ones that are close to the city? Let us know in the comments! Thanks!

More Honolulu Travel Guides

• Best things to do in Honolulu
• 2 days in Honolulu
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• Best Honolulu helicopter tours
• Museums in Honolulu
• Delicious ice cream in Honolulu

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15 Essential places to visit in Honolulu, Hawaii

Top tourist attractions in honolulu, hi., top 15 things to do in honolulu, hawaii, most popular places to visit in honolulu, how many questions would you like, ala moana center, pearl harbor national memorial, diamond head state monument, duke’s waikiki, battleship missouri memorial, find things to do in honolulu, hi, and make the most of your visit, soaring above honolulu: the thrill of helicopter tours.

Honolulu is the capital of Hawaii, and as such, it’s a major tourist destination. When people think of Honolulu, they most often think of Waikiki Beach, one of Hawaii’s most famous beaches.

The beach is one of the best in the state, and if you plan on visiting Honolulu at some point, it’s a good idea to check out Waikiki Beach.

Another top tourist attraction in Honolulu is the Bishop Museum.

This museum is dedicated to the history and culture of Hawaii and Polynesia, so if you’re interested in learning about these subjects, then this museum is for you.

Also worth checking out are the Iolani Palace (the official residence of the Hawaiian monarchs from 1845 to 1893), Diamond Head Crater (an extinct volcanic crater on the southeast side of Oahu), Ala Moana Center Mall (Oahu’s largest shopping center), and Honolulu Zoo (which houses more than 1,000 animals).

• Honolulu Zoo
• International Market Place
• Aloha Stadium Swap Meet
• Ala Moana Regional Park
• Moana Surfrider A Westin Resort & Spa Waikiki Beach
• Sea Life Park Hawaii
• Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum
• Fort DeRussy Beach Park
• Kapiʻolani Regional Park
• Iolani Palace

Honolulu, the capital of Hawai’i and the largest city in the state, is a beautiful metropolis full of natural wonders.

Often called “The Gathering Place,” Honolulu is home to a vibrant, multicultural community filled with people worldwide.

As a major metropolitan city, Honolulu is a product of its environment .

One of the best things about the island of Oahu is that it’s home to all these unique places—the beach, the mountains, and the ocean.

You can be in a village on one end of the island one day, then drive 20 minutes to find yourself in a palm tree-lined suburb, then another 30 minutes to find yourself at an isolated beach.

Then, you can move back to town, stop at the grocery store to pick up some snacks for your mountain trip, and make it into the hills in time for sunset.

You can find it downtown if you’re looking for a fast-paced city life with shopping, entertainment, and nightlife.

However, plenty of spots throughout Oahu will suit your tastes if you want to relax and enjoy nature.

Ala Moana Center is the largest open-air retail center in Hawaii. It has over 2.2 million square feet of shopping space and is home to 350 stores and services, offering everything from designer clothes to shoes, electronics, and a food court.

The mall first opened in August 1959. The name Ala Moana translates to “pathway to the sea” and was chosen for its location on the former site of a Hawaiian fishpond, where they gathered to fish for trade with other islands.

Ala Moana has over ten anchor stores, including Macy’s, Nordstrom, and Target, along with several restaurants, including Foodland Farms, Morton’s The Steakhouse, and Buffalo Wild Wings.

In addition, the mall frequently hosts special events like trunk shows and holiday displays that are popular with locals and tourists.

Pearl Harbor National Memorial commemorates the lives lost on December 7th, 1941, when Japan attacked the naval base at Pearl Harbor and effectively pulled the United States into World War II.

Visiting the memorial is like visiting a cemetery—it’s a place to reflect and honor those who died, but more importantly, it’s a place to honor their memory.

There are two ways to get there: take a ferry from Honolulu Harbor or drive directly there by taking the H-1 freeway. The ferry stop is located right next to the visitor center.

The Pearl Harbor National Memorial Museum is open every day of the year except for December 25th and January 1st, and it’s free of charge.

The exhibits cover both sides of World War II in addition to other topics such as Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto and Operation Hawaii—the Japanese attack plan for Pearl Harbor.

One thing that struck me about the exhibits was how personal they were.

Diamond Head State Monument is a volcanic crater and one of Honolulu’s most popular tourist destinations.

It’s on the southeastern coast of Oahu, Hawaii, and contains an enormous green hole. Diamond Head Crater was formed when molten lava from the Koolau volcano penetrated the soft sedimentary rock on the southeast side of Oahu.

The lava is believed to have flowed into Honolulu Bay and down the volcano’s southeast flank, creating a significant landslide as it moved into the water.

The landslide left an enormous depression that eventually filled with rainwater and became a freshwater lake or pond. After the pond dried up, trees and other vegetation grew in this area.

According to legend, Hawaiian chief Kapua’e found his wife, who had run away from him, hiding with another man.

He killed them both using a spear made from a diamond head-encrusted rock from the crater walls and threw their bodies over the cliff into the ocean below.

This story later became known as “The Legend of Diamond Head.”

Duke’s Waikiki is a bar and restaurant located at 2335 Kalakaua Avenue in Honolulu, Hawaii. It is a popular destination for tourists and residents of the area. The restaurant serves seafood, steak, pasta, and pizza.

Duke’s Waikiki is a great place to eat and drink on the beach, as it’s located on Waikiki Beach in Honolulu. It has a great menu, with some of the best seafood I’ve had in a long time.

The service is impeccable, always making you feel welcome. The atmosphere is fun, with various people, from tourists to locals.

It’s also an excellent place to go for happy hour. One of my favorite things about Duke’s is that it offers live music every night for dinner service, which makes for a lovely ambiance and adds to the fun experience at this restaurant.

The battleship Missouri has a lot of history. From 1944 to 1998, it was a warship and became a museum ship in Hawaii. The USS Missouri served in World War II and the Korean War.

It is famous as the site of signing the Surrender Documents on September 2nd, 1945, ending World War II. It was named the “Mighty Mo” by President Franklin D. Roosevelt. He said this when he saw how big it was.

The battleship Missouri is decommissioned, meaning they no longer use it for military service. However, decommissioned ships are usually kept just as they were when they were used in battle so that people can visit them and learn about their history.

Many people visit Mighty Mo to research or find information about relatives who served her during her service years.

Some people come to see it because their father or grandfather served on her, and they are interested in seeing where their loved one worked and lived for many years.

Hawaii is a beautiful place to visit . The best way to enjoy your trip is to come prepared with an open mind and a list of things you want to do.

If you’re unsure where to start, here are my tips for making the most of your Hawaii trip.

The first thing you should do when planning a trip to Hawaii is map out your daily itinerary. When I visited Oahu, I set aside time daily for swimming, snorkeling, surfing, other beach activities, hiking, and exploring the island.

I also scheduled some “me” time—to relax at the beach or by the pool and read a book (or ten). It gave me structure and helped me make the most of my time off the beaten path.

Don’t forget that there’s more to Hawaii than beaches and water sports! One of the best parts about visiting Honolulu is the diversity of its landscape.

There’s something for everyone here: from museums to shopping malls, from an aquarium to concerts at a local park. So, it’s easy to fill your days with activities without leaving Waikiki Beach!

For those who have explored the attractions, streets, beaches, and shopping centers, there’s another, more thrilling way to experience Honolulu and Oahu.

Helicopter tours offer an unparalleled perspective of the island’s diverse landscapes, from the bustling cityscape to the tranquil ocean vistas.

Honolulu helicopter tours are popular for those looking to capture the city’s essence from above.

These aerial adventures provide breathtaking views of iconic landmarks, including Diamond Head, Waikiki Beach, and Pearl Harbor. It’s an experience that adds a whole new dimension to the concept of sightseeing in Honolulu.

But why stop at the city limits? Oahu helicopter tours extend the journey to the island, offering a comprehensive aerial experience.

From the volcanic craters and lush valleys to the hidden waterfalls and secluded beaches, these tours showcase the island’s natural beauty in all its glory.

So, if you’re looking to elevate your Honolulu experience, literally and figuratively, helicopter tours are a must-try.

They offer a unique vantage point that few other attractions can match, making them a memorable addition to any Oahu itinerary.

Though Honolulu is a large city, there are plenty of scenic locations to explore on foot or by car.

And thanks to the moderate weather and pleasant pace of life in Hawaii, it’s easy to feel content with taking things slow while you explore the lush greenery surrounding the city.

So whether your trip is only a quick stopover or you plan to stay awhile, explore my list of essential places to visit in Honolulu .

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The Best Scenic Spots In Honolulu, Hawaii

Honolulu, Hawaii is known for spectacular beaches , but there are plenty of scenic places scattered within a 15-mile driving radius. From picturesque hikes to lovely lookouts just off the highways you’ll find all sorts of places hidden away on the southeast side of Oahu. We list our favorite scenic spots.

Diamond Head

A 1.6 mile roundtrip vertical hike up to the crater, Diamond Head offers breathtaking views of Waikiki Beach once you make it to the top to make the climb worth it. The park is open from 6 am to 6 pm, with the last hike starting at 4:30 pm. To beat the crowds, go early. Diamond Head, Honolulu, HI USA +1 808-587-0300

Manoa Falls

The Manoa Falls Trail meanders along a trickling brook through a tropical, leafy forest, and the experience is like hiking through a spa. A 1.6 mile roundtrip hike with a gentle slope, this is a much milder hike than Diamond Head, and at the end you meet the spectacular Manoa Falls. Manoa Falls, Manoa Rd Honolulu, HI +1 800-464-2924

Spitting Cave

The Spitting Cave is a marvelous, secluded, and almost otherworldly an place to visit. It draws daring cliff divers to its layered cliffs for extreme jumps and dives, but it’s also just a spectacular place to ogle at the ocean. The entrance is hidden away in a cul-de-sac and the trail down is quite steep and requires care walking. Spitting Cave, 7 Lumahai St Honolulu, HI USA

Halona Blowhole Lookout

A natural wonder, the Halona Blowhole is made by molten lava tubes from volcanic eruptions thousands of years ago. The lava tubes flow to the ocean, and when the waves are large enough, they can send water shooting up to 30 feet high. A 20-30 minute trip from Waikiki, Honolulu and north of Hanauma Bay, Halona Blowhole is a stop worth taking. Halona Blowhole Lookout, 8699 HI-72 Honolulu, HI USA

Hanauma Bay

A beautiful place to go snorkeling and look out onto a scenic blue bay, Hanauma Bay is a must see for visiting Honolulu. You can take the Waikiki shuttle to Hanauma or rent a car and take 20-30 minute drive from Waikiki . First-time visitors are required to watch a video before entering the park so they can learn about marine life, conservation, and safety in the park. Hanauma Bay, Honolulu, HI USA

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Our immersive trips , led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.?>

All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.

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Most Beautiful Places in Oahu Worth a Stop

Are you traveling to oahu and want to know the prettiest places to take photos check out these most beautiful places in oahu worth a stop, this list of the most beautiful places in oahu hawaii was written by marcie cheung (a hawaii travel expert) and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

Oahu is one of the largest Hawaiian islands and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. 

From breathtaking waterfalls to towering mountains, this island has almost any natural attraction you could dream of – and it has beautiful cities, well-managed resorts, and world-class restaurants!

Whatever you’re looking for, whether it’s hiking trails to ancient heiau to peaceful beaches to historic plantations, Oahu has options for you! Oahu’s natural beauty has something to offer if you want to find unique photography backdrops or simply enjoy nature.

In this article, I’ve ranked fifteen of Oahu’s most awe-inspiring, magical destinations. These are all awesome for both personal enjoyment and Instagram posts! 

Why trust my tips? I’ve traveled to Hawaii more than 40 times, so I really know my stuff.

Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Oahu itinerary complete with daily schedules, fun activities, and travel hacks? Click the button below.

15 of the Most Beautiful Places in Oahu Hawaii

No matter where you’re staying on Oahu, the immense amount of natural attractions on the island means you’ll always have a beautiful activity near you! 

Scroll through this list to see my rankings of the best beautiful places on Oahu.

1. Tantalus

Tantalus’ original name was “Pu’u ‘Ualaka’a,” or “Hill of the Rolling Sweet Potato,” a charming name for an absolutely charming place. Now it’s largely known as Tantalus, named after the Greek king of the same name.

High above sea level and overlooking the capital of Hawaii, Honolulu, Tantalus Lookout is a mere four miles north of Waikiki and provides visitors with a beautiful, panoramic view of the city and mountains beyond it. 

The area itself is tranquil and peaceful, populated by wildlife and beautiful local plants. Whether you’re here to picnic or take pictures, be sure to pause and listen for the melodic calls of the white-rumped shama, a passerine with a black head and yellow-orange body.

As you pose for pictures or take a stroll along the road that runs through the area, you might see other wild animals such as wild pigs, mongooses, and even Jackson chameleons! Remember to never get too close to the animals for the safety of both parties!

If you’re looking for a paradise-like place to hike or picnic, this is the place for you!

2. Laniakea Beach

Laniakea Beach is also known simply as Turtle Beach because you’ll almost always be able to see turtles sunning themselves on the sandy shores. If you’re visiting to admire the wildlife, be sure to come to this beach during the summertime, when turtles most often sunbathe.

Aside from being a turtle-filled paradise, Laniakea Beach is actually part of the 7-Mile Miracle, a stretch of seven miles of beaches with over 30 unique surfing spots. Whether you’re an expert or just starting to learn, the 7-Mile Miracle has the spot for you.

When visiting Laniakea Beach, stay a safe distance away from the turtles and take any trash you produce with you to keep the beaches clean and safe. 

Also, remember that the Laniakea Beach and the 7-Mile Miracle are places of cultural significance. Treat the environment and people there with respect. 

3. Hanauma Bay

One of the best snorkeling spots on Oahu is Hanauma Bay. You’ll need to make reservations or book a tour to visit but it’s definitely worth it.

Here, you’ll get beautiful views of the coral reef as well as sweeping mountains surrounding it. And if go snorkeling, you have a good chance of seeing some incredible Hawaiian sea life.

My top tip is to visit early in the morning when the beach is the least crowded. But, this is a popular spot and it might be tricky to avoid getting people in your photos.

4. H-3 Highway

So, it might seem weird to include a highway on this list of prettiest places on Oahu, but once you drive it, you’ll understand why.

This winding highway has the most gorgeous views of the Ko’olau Mountains. There’s even tunnels through the mountains so you’ll get to see them up close.

I suggest getting someone else to drive so you can fully look around. This is one of the most scenic drives on Oahu that everyone should do.

5. K ailua Beach

Kailua Beach truly fits the vision of what we imagine when we think about beaches. From its fine golden-white sand to the beautifully clear ocean, it’s in every way a tropical paradise, perfect for anyone to enjoy.

If you’re looking for a relaxing beach day on a shore with calm waves and beautiful views, this should be on the top of your list. 

The area offers not only the beach but picnic tables, restrooms, showers, beach volleyball courts, and even a fireworks show on the Fourth of July! You can even go paddle-boarding and kayaking!

If you look off to the West while on the beach, you can even see the Chinaman’s Hat, a small island!

6. Kualoa Ranch

Kualoa Ranch holds some of the world’s most popular wedding venues for good reason. While it is geographically in the same place as the Ka’a’awa Valley, I placed it separately on this list because I view them as two distinct areas.

Kualoa Ranch, 4,000 acres big, is a place of pure beauty, ranging from secluded beaches to historical structures to lush mountains. 

There are a variety of tours, such as movie tours or UTV tours , that would suit any tourist, ranging from Jungle Jeep Expedition to the Malama Eco-Adventure . The tour guides are all friendly and knowledgeable, able to inform you of the historical importance or geological histories of the areas you’ll visit.

For active tourists, Kualoa Ranch also offers bike tours , ziplining tours , on-foot visits to beaches and mountains, and even horseback riding tours !

Book a Hawaii Photo Shoot

Whenever we travel to Hawaii, we almost always book a photo shoot with Flytographer. They are super easy, affordable, AND it guarantees that I’ll have more than just selfies. You can get $25 off if you book through this link or use the code HAWAIITRAVEL.

7. Lanai Lookout

Lanai Lookout is one of the more secluded options on this list, as many tourists and bloggers overlook it. One thing to keep in mind is that parking is very limited. The area only has 15-20 nearby parking spots!

The lookout offers a stunning overhead panoramic view of unique rock formations, crashing waves, and the Koko Crater. It’s a perfect place to just sit back and relax, enjoying the sounds of nature. You might even get the chance to see humpback whales , especially during the winter months!

If you’re up to the task, the sunrise here is immensely scenic and unmatched in beauty. No matter when you come here, however, I’d recommend keeping any young children or elderly people away from the edge of the lookout and wearing proper shoes.

8. Manoa Falls

Manoa Falls and the trail that leads to it are both immensely beautiful and worth a visit. It’s one of the most beautiful Oahu waterfall hikes out there!

The jungle trail is fairly easy for all ages and abilities. Just be sure to check the weather as it can get slippery in the rain.

There are plenty of photo spots along the trail but the big payoff is seeing Manoa Falls. It’s a hidden gem on Oahu that a lot of people forget to add to their Oahu itinerary.

9. Kaneohe Sandbar

Found at the center of the reef-protected Kaneohe Bay, the Kaneohe Sandbar is located between the Chinaman’s Hat, also known as the Mokoli’i Island, and the Coconut Island, also known as Moku O Lo’e. 

You’ll need a kayak or boat tour to reach the area, as the sandbar is more than a mile from shore. The depth of the water depends on the tide levels, but generally doesn’t rise enough to submerge an average adult’s head.

Many individuals like to come to the Kaneohe sandbar to unwind on a pool floatie, admire the views of the nearby mountains and islands, and relax amidst tranquil turquoise waters. It’s one of the best things to do in Kaneohe Hawaii !

10. Waikiki Beach

Waikiki Beach, despite being one of the most crowded beaches in Hawaii, is still one of the most beautiful places on Hawaii.

Unlike the rest of the beach, the end of the beach near Diamond Head is much less crowded and much more tranquil. From there, you can truly admire the natural beauty around you as well as the unique scenery of Diamond Head.

This beach also commonly sees turtles napping by the shore or snacking on seaweed, especially before sunset. If you’re interested, there’s also snorkeling opportunities where you can try to swim with the turtles!

11. Waimea Valley

Waimea Valley has many activities and natural attractions you can visit, the most popular of which is its many botanical gardens. With over 50 themed gardens for you to pick from, you’ll never get bored!

The Waimea Valley is also home to the gorgeous Waimea Falls. The falls and the swimming pool it feeds into are both gorgeously photogenic spots.

12. Nu’uanu Pali Lookout

A mere five miles from downtown Honolulu, the Nu’uanu Pali Lookout is accessible by drive and is one of the most beautiful lookouts on Oahu.

From the lookout, you’ll be able to see a gorgeous, sprawling, panoramic view of Honolulu, the windward coast, smaller nearby cities, mountains, and verdant green fields. Be sure to take plenty of pictures!

Keep in mind that the wind here is very strong and chilling. Dress properly to ensure you don’t get sick!

13. Royal Hawaiian Hotel

The Royal Hawaiian Hotel is the only attraction on this list that isn’t cultural or natural, however, it is still a unique wonder you’ll be hard-pressed to find anywhere else in the world.

Located on the coastline near sandy beaches and palm trees, the hotel is nicknamed the “Pink Palace” for its beautiful design and unique color. The interior design is similarly gorgeous, with facilities and architecture that’ll make you feel like a royal family member.

While you’re in the area, be sure to check out the Oahu luau and other activities the hotel has to offer!

14. Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden

The Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden is doubtlessly one of the most photogenic destinations on this list. This botanical garden is a paradise of tropical tranquility, covered in aesthetic placements of local plants and even the occasional wild animal.

While you’re here, you’ll have plenty of opportunities for unmatched photography due to the immense amount of beautiful backdrops. Whether you’re looking to stand on the road or take pictures on hikes or even the parking lot, this place is a gold mine for any photographer!

While you’re here, be sure to respect the effort and money that goes into maintaining the cleanliness and beauty of the area. Be sure to not cause environmental damage by littering!

15. Byodo-In Temple

Established in 1968 to commemorate the centennial of the Japanese arrival to Hawaii, the Byodo-In Temple on Oahu is a botanical garden, cultural site, and breathtaking temple all in one!

When you arrive here, it’s said that you’ll feel an unmatched sense of deep tranquility. The grounds include beautiful koi ponds, statues, and even wild peacocks.

Hire an Oahu Vacation Photographer

If you want to make the most out of these photogenic areas and create some memories you’ll never forget, consider hiring an Oahu vacation photographer. 

Although I’ve hired photographers from many different companies in the past, I’d personally recommend Flyto grapher , as they are high-quality, low-cost, and very convenient! Check out the latest prices and details.  

Flytographer connects you with independent photographers, each with different styles of shooting, specialties, tools, and portfolios, so you can choose the photographer that best meets your needs.

The process is simple, convenient, and fast, and the photos themselves often take very little time to process, which is a welcome divergence from the main trend in professional photography.

If you’re interested, you can save 10% on your first hired professional Flytographer !  

I’d totally recommend hiring a professional photographer! While the cost may scare you, it’s completely worth it to preserve such wonderful memories!

Beautiful Places on Oahu FAQs

As you’ll be able to see by reading through the article, some of my favorite destinations are Tantalus Lookout, Turtle Beach, and the Crouching Lion trail!

Since Oahu is a tropical island, the weather at almost any time of day is mild and agreeable. The best months for whale-watching are between January and early April , when humpbacks travel to Hawaii’s warmer waters as a part of their migration cycle.

Despite being a repository of natural attractions, Oahu is also the most developed island in Hawaii and therefore has many unique attractions such as high-class shopping, fine dining, an immense variety of Hawaiian cuisine, and exciting nightlife !  

Prettiest Places to See in Oahu Wrap Up

Now that you know some of some of the most photogenic and beautiful places in Oahu, be sure to add these destinations to your itinerary!

Looking for more Oahu travel resources? Check out the prettiest Oahu beaches , best Oahu snorkel tours , things to do in Haleiwa , and things to do in Honolulu at night !

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Top 10 Things to Do in Honolulu, HI: Stunning Beaches, Rich History, and Vibrant Local Scene

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Uncover the must-see attractions of Honolulu, Hawaii, from its famous shores to its cultural heart.

Located on the island of Oahu, Honolulu is a tropical paradise with a unique blend of natural wonders and urban attractions. From the iconic Waikiki Beach to the historic Pearl Harbor, the city is a melting pot of Hawaiian traditions and modern influences. Indulge in the local cuisine, explore the lush landscapes, and immerse yourself in the aloha spirit that defines Honolulu .

So whether you’re searching for apartments in Honolulu , homes for sale , or are already a local, this Redfin article will be your guide. Here is Redfin’s list of the top 10 things to do in Honolulu, for both newcomers and long-time locals alike.

1. Snorkel at Hanauma Bay

Snorkeling at Hanauma Bay is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Honolulu. The crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life make it a paradise for snorkelers. Spend the day exploring the coral reefs and swimming alongside colorful fish and sea turtles. The bay also offers educational opportunities for visitors to learn about the marine ecosystem and conservation efforts.

Insider scoop: Arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds and enjoy the calm, serene waters for the best snorkeling experience.

Deciding between renting or buying your next home?

A visit to Pearl Harbor is a poignant and educational experience. Learn about the history of the attack on Pearl Harbor and pay your respects at the USS Arizona Memorial . The museum and exhibits provide a comprehensive look at the events of December 7, 1941, and the impact on the United States. Visitors can also explore the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum and Park for a deeper understanding of naval history.

Insider tip: Visit the Pacific Aviation Museum on Ford Island to see vintage aircraft and interactive exhibits that provide a broader context of the Pacific Theater during World War II.

3. Hike Diamond Head Crater

Hiking to the top of Diamond Head Crater offers breathtaking panoramic views of Honolulu and the surrounding coastline. The moderate hike takes visitors through a historic military tunnel and up a series of stairs to the summit. The stunning vistas make the effort well worth it, and the unique geological formations provide a fascinating backdrop for the hike.

Before you go: Bring plenty of water and sunscreen for the hike, and be sure to stop and take in the views along the way.

4. Explore Waikiki Beach

Waikiki Beach is a world-renowned destination for sun, sand, and surf. The bustling beach offers a variety of activities, from swimming and sunbathing to surfing and paddleboarding. Visitors can also take a leisurely stroll along the Waikiki Beach Walk, lined with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Must do activity: Experience a traditional Hawaiian luau at one of the beachfront resorts for an unforgettable cultural and culinary experience.

5. Discover the Honolulu Museum of Art

The Honolulu Museum of Art is a treasure trove of artistic and cultural wonders. The museum’s diverse collection includes Asian, European, and American art, as well as contemporary and traditional Hawaiian pieces. Visitors can explore the galleries, participate in art classes, and attend special events and exhibitions throughout the year.

Unique experience: Visit the Doris Duke Theatre within the museum for a unique cultural experience. The theatre hosts a variety of film screenings, performances, and lectures that complement the museum’s exhibits and provide deeper insights into global and local art and culture.

6. Visit Iolani Palace

Iolani Palace is the only royal palace on U.S. soil and a must-visit for history enthusiasts. This stunning historic site was the official residence of the Hawaiian monarchy and offers a fascinating glimpse into Hawaii’s royal past. Visitors can take guided tours of the palace to learn about the lives of King Kalakaua and Queen Liliuokalani, the last reigning monarchs of Hawaii.

Must see : Explore the meticulously restored interiors and grounds of the palace, and don’t miss the basement gallery, which features exhibits on Hawaiian artifacts and royal regalia.

7. Relax at Lanikai Beach

Lanikai Beach , often hailed as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, is a hidden gem on the windward coast of Oahu. Its powdery white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters provide the perfect backdrop for a day of relaxation. This less crowded beach is ideal for swimming, kayaking, and simply soaking in the breathtaking scenery.

Recommended: Rent a kayak and paddle out to the nearby Mokulua Islands for an adventure and spectacular views of the coastline.

8. Explore the Bishop Museum

The Bishop Museum is Hawaii’s premier natural and cultural history museum. With extensive exhibits on Hawaiian and Pacific cultures, as well as natural history collections, the museum offers an in-depth look at Hawaii’s rich heritage. Visitors can explore the Hawaiian Hall, Planetarium, and Science Adventure Center, making it an educational and enjoyable outing for all ages.

Must do: Attend one of the live cultural demonstrations or planetarium shows to enhance your visit with interactive and engaging experiences.

9. Wander through the Honolulu Zoo

The Honolulu Zoo is a welcoming attraction located in the heart of Waikiki. The zoo is home to a diverse array of animals, including elephants, lions, and native Hawaiian species. The beautifully landscaped grounds and interactive exhibits make it a delightful place to spend a day exploring.

Top tip: Join a guided twilight tour to see the animals during their more active evening hours and learn interesting facts about their behaviors.

Thinking about moving to the area?

10. stroll through the foster botanical garden.

The Foster Botanical Garden is an urban oasis in downtown Honolulu , featuring a stunning array of tropical plants and trees. Established in the mid-19th century, the garden is home to a variety of rare and exotic species. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk through themed sections, including a prehistoric glen, a butterfly garden, and a collection of orchids.

Must do: Take a self-guided tour to discover the garden’s unique flora and learn about the history and significance of the plants on display.

Marissa is part of the content marketing team and enjoys writing about real estate trends and home improvement. Her dream home is a contemporary-style house with ample outdoor space.

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21 of the Coolest Places to Visit + Attractions on Oahu, Hawaii

Of the main islands in the Hawaiian archipelago, Oahu is among the most popular, thanks in large part to the large number of beautiful places to visit and exciting things to do on Oahu!

With the most flights from the mainland of any Hawaiian island and a plethora of world-class attractions in Oahu, there’s no room for boredom on this tropical island.

Oahu is home to Hawaii’s capital city, Honolulu, with its iconic Waikiki Beach and excellent location for exploring the rest of the island.

With an abundance of beachside patios to watch the sunset, luxury resort hotels with beach access, and a laid-back lifestyle, you can do as little or as much as you want when based in Waikiki.

Looking for the absolute best attractions in Oahu, Hawaii?

Here’s where to visit!

This Oahu travel guide was written by Hawaii travel enthusiast Karen Hosier of Forever Karen . Thanks for joining us, Karen!

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

The Best Attractions on Oahu, Hawaii

Waikiki beach.

Like any metropolitan city, the Waikiki Beach area bustles with activity.

With a sandy beach, shopping, and world-class restaurants only steps away, you don’t need a rental car if you plan to spend your vacation traveling no farther than this iconic stretch of sand.

Most hotels charge a daily fee for in-and-out parking privileges if you choose to rent a vehicle.

(And if you do, we recommend comparing prices and inclusions for different companies through Discover Cars ).

The city bus and the Biki Bike program allow travelers to reach many of the closest things to do.

City buses circumnavigate the island, so reaching the north shore or other locations is relatively easy.

Many tours, like whale watching tours during winter, also leave from Waikiki.

For a luxury stay, consider The Royal Hawaiian , a classic hotel with a pink exterior.

Diamond Head State Monument 

From Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head Crater dominates the Honolulu skyline to the southeast.

Visitors can enjoy part of the 475 acres in the Diamond Head State Monument with an easy bus ride.

However, most come to climb to the peak for 360-degree views of the Pacific Ocean, Waikiki, and the surrounding crater.

To beat the heat of the midday sun, plan to hike early, carry bottled water, and forego those flip-flops in place of supportive footwear.

The Diamond Head hike is an interesting one with a switchback trail, a 225-foot tunnel, an old military bunker, and the memorable “stairs of doom.” 

Near the top, the stairs of doom test your fitness level on 99 steep vertical steps to the peak.

Plan one hour to 90 minutes to complete the roundtrip hike, which is widely considered one of the best hikes in Oahu .

Once you complete the hike, reward yourself with a Dole Whip or pineapple smoothie from the food truck in the parking lot.

Keep in mind that as of spring 2022, reservations are now required for visiting Diamond Head.

The Hawaii Capital Historic District 

Honolulu’s historic district showcases notable architecture, providing a mini history lesson.

Standing 18 feet tall, the King Kamehameha Statue memorializes Hawaii’s first king.

Behind him, Ali’iolani Hale, initially built for royalty, is now home to the Hawaii Supreme Court.

While the royal family no longer exists, you can learn their history by visiting Iolani Palace, their last royal residence.

At the palace, discover how the US government overthrew the Hawaiian monarchy, and see the imprisonment room of Queen Lili’uokalani, the kingdom’s last monarch.

The historic Washington Place was another Queen Lili’uokalani home a few blocks away.

Today, it acts as the Governor’s Residence.

Hanauma Bay 

East of Honolulu, the Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve aims to protect and safeguard marine life.

The sheltered cove, which derives from a volcanic cone, has a large expanse of coral reef, a vital resource for fish, turtles, and other species.

More than a million visitors a year come to snorkel at Hanauma Bay .

While you can expect to deal with high crowds during peak season, it’s for good reason!

Hanauma Bay is an excellent place for families and those without much swimming experience. 

With calm waters and shallow depth, snorkelers can see tropical fish without wading too far.

The Hawaii state fish, Humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa, is commonly spotted in the reef.

Along with 400 other species, you may even be treated to a green sea turtle sighting. 

However, Hanauma Bay doesn’t provide much shelter from the sun.

So, bring an umbrella, wear a rashguard, and ensure you have reef-safe sunscreen (which is required by law in Hawaii).

Ala Moana Beach Park

Not as crowded as Waikiki Beach, Ala Moana Beach Park provides a beach escape with some extras.

The area was once swampland, but the city recently developed it into an artificial beach.

Beachside trees offer plenty of shade, and the abundance of grass is ideal for picnics.

With a natural reef, those new to stand-up paddleboarding can perfect their balancing skills in calm waters.

Unless you arrive early, parking is a challenge. It’s best to use public transit to the Ala Moana Mall across the street.

Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden

Located on the windward side of Oahu, Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden is simultaneously one of the top attractions in Oahu and also a great place to get (somewhat) away from the crowds in iconic spots like Waikiki Beach.

These gorgeous gardens are divided into 6 sections, with areas to both walk and drive.

The lush plant life and mountain views are absolutely stunning.

Without a doubt, if you’re interested in Oahu’s biodiversity or simply looking for a break from the beach, Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden is a fantastic place to visit.

Kualoa Regional Park

Ten miles north of Kaneohe, the Kualoa Regional Park is a must-visit attraction in Oahu.

The park has a huge parking lot which is rarely busy.

To one side, the long expanse of beach provides a great swimming or picnic spot.

On the other, the Ko’olau Mountains, made famous by Jurassic Park movies, dominate the skyline.

Mokoli’i Island, or Chinaman’s Hat, looks like its latter name off the coast.

From the parking lot, a trail leads to Apua Fishpond. Its neighboring pond, Moli’i fishpond, is managed by Kualoa Ranch.

Covering 125 acres, it’s one of Hawaii’s largest fishponds and still raises a variety of fish.

One of the larger towns on Oahu, Kailua is one of the most scenic places on the island.

It’s home to what is arguably Oahu’s most scenic beach, Lanikai Beach (more on that in a minute), but it’s also a wonderful place to visit in its own right.

The dining scene in Kailua is fantastic and you’ll find a lot of great shopping as well.

There are also some excellent hikes to check out in Kailua, such as the popular Lanikai Pillbox hike.

Lanikai Beach

As one of the most stunning beaches in Hawaii, Lanikai Beach offers brilliant white sand and a bright blue sea with the Mokulua Islands in the distance.

The water is calm here compared to the North Shore, so it’s a great place for snorkeling in Oahu .

You can also kayak out to the Mokulua Islands if you want to get active, either independently or with a guided sea kayaking tour.

Valley Of The Temples 

Nestled at the foot of the lush Ko’olau Range, a 240-acre memorial park might seem like an odd place to visit in Oahu.

However, this tranquil place gathers people to honor those from all faiths, including Buddhism and Christianity.

Surrounded by an amphitheater of lush flora, the setting is like something from a fairytale.

At the back of the memorial park, visitors can discover a hidden gem.

The Byodo-In Temple is a half-sized replica of the Japanese temple bearing the same name.

Those entering the grounds are invited to ring the colossal bon-sho sacred bell before entering the temple and making a blessing.

Outside, a large reflecting pond provides a sanctuary for hundreds of giant Japanese koi of every color.

If you want to feed them, a little shop to the right of the temple sells carp pellets.

With an entrance fee of under USD 10, visitors can enjoy a fantastic Oahu attraction on a budget.

Kaiwa Ridge (Lanikai Pillbox Hike)

The Lanikai Pillbox Hike or Kaiwa Ridge trail provides stunning views of the island’s windward side.

With an elevation gain of 625 feet, expect a more challenging uphill climb than Diamond Head.

At 1.5 miles roundtrip, expect to spend an hour to 90 minutes to complete the return hike, depending on stops.

During the dry season, the trail is very dusty with loose gravel.

After 20 minutes, you’ll reach the first of two old military pillbox bunkers. The second requires another 10 minutes of walking.

From the peak, the mesmerizing views of Lanikai Beach, Makapu’u Lighthouse, Mokulua Islands, and Mokoliʻi Island (Chinaman’s hat).

With 360-degree views from the ridge, many tackle the climb to enjoy the sunrise and sunset.

Since you’ll be hiking in the dark, take a flashlight and lightweight jacket.

Kualoa Ranch 

Spread across 4000 acres that cover three valleys, the Kualoa Ranch provides fantastic tours for a fun day.

Adventurers can choose from the Jurassic Valley Zipline or an ATV Raptor excursion to Jurassic Valley. 

Although most know Jurassic Park movies were filmed there, on the Hollywood Movie Sites Tour, you’ll discover the filming spots of “Lost,” “Jumanji,” and “50 First Dates.”

The Ranch recommends making a reservation for tours, as popular ones sell out fast.

Allow for two to three hours on most excursions.

However, the Best of Kualoa Experience package combines three tours and lasts seven hours.

Alternatively, the Kualoa Half Day Package lasts 4-1/2 hours and includes two excursions. Both packages include their incredible lunch buffet.

Near the entrance to Kualoa Ranch, the Tropical Farms Macadamia Nuts offers Kona coffee and macadamia nut sampling.

With nuts in flavors like Maui onion and garlic, cinnamon glazed, and Kona coffee, you’ll be able to spoil your family and friends with the  best Hawaiian souvenirs .

Pearl Harbor 

No visit to Oahu is complete without spending a day at Pearl Harbor.

Expect to be humbled as you learn the history of the attack on Pearl Harbor, which took place on December 7, 1941. 

To get the most historical context from your visit (and the simplest transportation option), consider signing up for a tour of Pearl Harbor .

Today, visitors can see some of the preserved fleet, including the USS Missouri Battleship, USS Bowfin Submarine, and USS Arizona National Memorial.

Inside the Pacific Aviation Museum, a collection of vintage planes from the second world war is displayed.

Take to the skies in the Fighter Ace 360 Flight Simulator for the ultimate thrill.

If you can stomach the ride, you’ll experience an aviator’s life with spins, rolls, and aerial somersaults.

A tour of the USS Bowfin is an eye-opener to life on a submarine. The self-guided tour includes the claustrophobic bunks, which are sandwiched above the torpedoes.

While most attractions require a fee, a visit to the USS Arizona National Memorial is complimentary.

After a short boat ride to the memorial, you can read the names of those who lost their lives and see the “tears of Arizona” seeping from the sunken vessel below.

Ewa Forest Reserve

North of Pearl City, the Ewa Forest Reserve allows travelers to experience a dense rainforest.

It’s the polar opposite of the dense concrete jungle of Waikiki, and this mountainous region is not for the faint of heart.

While the area offers a selection of hiking trails, you need a permit to hike there.

Of the hiking trails, the Waimano Falls Trail is a popular one. 

Most trails are rated as hard due to roots, steep sections, and tricky descents.

Along the way, you may encounter two local residents, the feral goat, and a pig.

National Memorial Cemetery Of The Pacific 

A visit to the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific makes a natural add-on to Pearl Harbor.

Located in Punchbowl Crater, it’s an easy 9-mile trip southeast of the military base.

The approach to the cemetery wows visitors with its boulevard flanked by cathedral trees.

The elevated lookout of the cemetery provides a peaceful resting place for fallen soldiers who served in the United States Armed Forces.

Around the pristine grounds, you can find unmarked graves of Pearl Harbor victims. 

Around the crater’s rim and near the entrance, you’ll enjoy views of Honolulu, the Pacific Ocean, and Diamond Head in the distance.

Planning to visit Oahu’s gorgeous North Shore?

If so, you can’t miss a stop in charming Haleiwa!

Considered the heart of the North Shore, Haleiwa is a great place to stop for lunch or dinner while you’re visiting the North Shore beaches.

The North Shore is less built-up than other parts of Oahu, and Haleiwa is one of the few places with sit-down restaurants, shops, and boutiques.

This is also where you’ll find the rightfully famous Matsumoto Shave Ice . 

The Dole Plantation 

The Dole Plantation, home to everyone’s favorite pineapples, is undoubtedly one of the most popular places to visit in Oahu.

That being said, it has a very dark history , and the Dole family is part of the reason the Hawaiian Kingdom was forcibly overthrown in the late 19th century.

While today’s version of The Dole Plantation is clearly still a fun place for families to stop en route to the North Shore, it’s best to keep its history in mind when deciding to visit.

If you do go, you’ll find attractions like the Pineapple Express train tour, which narrates the history of pineapples in Hawaii. 

In addition to the famous pineapples, they grow other tropical fruits, too.

While Hawaii once thrived on sugar cane, it now produces mangoes, cacao (for making chocolate), taro, bananas, and coffee. 

One of the highlights of the plantation is a garden maze with 2-1/2 miles of pathways.

After a hot trek through the maze, reward yourself with soft-serve Dole Whip, an island favorite.

Waimea Falls

Just off the Waimea Valley Road, a short walk (0.7 miles) through a botanical garden, leads to a picturesque waterfall.

“Focus on the journey, not the destination” is a fitting quote for this walk. 

Giant ferns, lush lily pads, and colorful flora enhance the hike along the paved pathway.

At the end of the path, Waimea Falls cascades into a swimming hole. 

So, remember to wear your bathing suit, and bring a towel!

Popular amongst locals and tourists, the waterfalls can vary depending on rainfall.

Plan to visit after a significant rainfall to enjoy it when it is heavily flowing.

Laniakea Beach 

Better known as Turtle Beach, Laniakea Beach usually attracts visitors for its turtles and surfing–in other words, for having two of the biggest attractions in Oahu, HI!

The winter months, particularly January, provide the most significant waves for experienced surfers. 

If you’re new to surfing, the calmer waves of summertime might be more suitable.

Due to the wave action and riptides, it’s inadvisable to swim there.

Regards of when you visit, parking can be problematic as tourists come to watch the surfers and seek out turtle sightings.

For the best chance to see turtles, head to the far right of the beach.

Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles lie on the beach during the day, enjoying the midday sun.

It’s unlawful in Hawaii to approach, harass or touch a turtle.

So, volunteers generally stand by to police that onlookers abide by the rules, and roped areas keep tourists at a distance.

Shark’s Cove

Despite the name, Shark’s Cove isn’t known for its sharks but for its snorkeling.

In fact, you won’t find any sharks there!

During the winter, the strong ocean waves might create hazardous conditions.

However, summer brings calmer currents to Shark’s Cove, ideal for snorkeling.

Unlike Hanauma Bay which charges a fee, you can swim at Sharks Cove for free.

The cove has two sections.

On the right, the depth varies from 15 to 20 feet. To its left, shallow tide pools are ideal for the non-swimmers.

Due to the sharp lava field, it’s advisable to wear water shoes to protect your feet.

Quick Tips for Visiting Oahu, Hawaii

Even though Oahu has more hotels and resorts than the other islands, don’t expect bargain prices when visiting the top attractions in Oahu.

Hotels and food (restaurants and grocery stores) command high prices.

By law, in Honolulu short-term rentals (such as Airbnb and VRBO), must be rented for no less than 90 days.

If it makes sense for your itinerary, to save money when staying in Waikiki, forego the rental car to save on the daily parking fee.

Hoping to drive to some of the more far-flung things to do on Oahu?

We recommend searching for rental cars through Discover Cars , which will allow to compare prices and inclusions with multiple companies.

If you plan to visit many of the best attractions in Oahu, consider purchasing a Go Oahu Card , which can save hundreds of dollars on admission.

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Where to Stay in Honolulu: The 10 Best Spots

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you decide to make a purchase through my links we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Read about our affiliate policies here .

If you’re headed to Oahu, you’re probably excited to visit the glitzy and gorgeous Honolulu. With many different neighborhoods set between the mountains and the beautiful beaches, you have your choice of things to do and see. If you’re trying to pick where to stay in Honolulu, we have you covered with the best options.

Get the best of your Oahu trip with more planning resources: – If you’re just starting to plan, take a look at our Start Here page and Planning a Trip to Haiwaii – Take a deep dive on everything Oahu with our Oahu Travel Guide – It’s not a Hawaii vacation without plenty of beach time and activities, which is why we have a list of the best Oahu beaches and a curated selection of the best tours and activities

Where is Honolulu?

Nicknamed the Manhattan of the Pacific for its glittering skyscrapers, the city of Honolulu is located on the southeastern end of the Hawaiian Island of Oahu, near the largest port in the state.

Honolulu can be a complicated area of Hawaii to pin down, despite its status as the capital. What gets confusing for most visitors is that there is the city of Honolulu with its sprawling neighborhoods, but also the county of Honolulu, which happens to be the entire island of Oahu.

When you’re doing your research, most guides and websites will be referring to the city of Honolulu, but it’s always good to double-check. 

Many Hawaii cruises start/end or dock in Honolulu, if you’re heading to Oahu to catch a cruise ship, check out our Hawaii cruise resources! Find the best time to cruise Hawaii , and learn about all of Hawaii’s cruise ports Pick from the best Honolulu shore excursions (and yes, we have Kauai , Maui , and the Big Island covered too) Before you go, grab a Cruising Hawaii Guide to get all your cruise planning done in one place!

What is the Best Area to Stay in Honolulu?

As the bustling capital of Hawaii, figuring out where to stay in Honolulu can seem daunting. Many of Honolulu’s visitors stay in the Waikiki neighborhood. A plethora of hotels and vacation rentals, beautiful Waikiki Beach , and tons of restaurants and activities are all reasons why this is such a popular spot to set up shop on Oahu. 

If you’re not keen to spend your time in the tourist hot spot of Waikiki, there are over 24 neighborhoods in Honolulu to choose from. Some of our favorites are Kaka’ako, Chinatown, Kahala, and Ala Moana.

Kaka’ako is one of Honolulu’s trendiest neighborhoods with loads of restaurants and bars to dive into and cool street art to spot. Honolulu’s Chinatown is located near the financial district and is a bustling cultural center with traditional dim sum restaurants, colorful temples, and an artsy core of studios and galleries to explore. If Kaka’ako is the hip spot in town, then Chinatown is its funky little sister. 

Also located in the heart of downtown, the Ala Moana neighborhood has a more laidback and residential feel, while still sharing a border with lively Waikiki. Kahala is situated much more off the beaten path, south of Honolulu’s downtown. This neighborhood is secluded from the hustle and bustle with a few beaches and plenty of natural areas to explore nearby.

How Many Days Do You Need in Honolulu?

Five days is the perfect amount of time to spend in Honolulu, especially if you’re planning to explore more of the island of Oahu . If you are just sticking to the city, you could probably get by with three days instead, although you’d be missing out on some of the best things to do in the “Gathering Place” as Oahu is affectionately called. 

Despite being Hawaii’s third largest island, Oahu is fairly large and it can take a while to get around – especially with the notoriously headache-inducing traffic. Honolulu makes for a great place to base yourself for explorations further afield or to simply take a relaxing beach trip – it does have some of the best beaches in Hawaii after all! 

What Is There to Do in Honolulu?

As the capital of Hawaii and the largest city in this chain of islands, there’s an endless list of things to do in Honolulu ! 

First and foremost, you’ll want to head out to the city’s famous beaches. Punctuated by views of the Honolulu skyline and striking Diamond Head as a backdrop, world-famous Waikiki Beach is hard to beat in terms of views. Head to either of the far ends of this 2-mile-long stretch of sand to seek out a quieter atmosphere, or hang out in the center if you want to be in the heart of it all. 

We also highly recommend a visit to Kahanamoku Beach for incredible views of Diamond Head that rival those of Waikiki Beach. Bonus, it’s also previously been rated the #1 Beach in America by Dr. Beach . This is an excellent spot to watch the Friday Night Fireworks, year-round.

Speaking of beaches, Waikiki Beach is one of the best areas on Oahu to take surfing lessons . Its lazy, rolling waves are great for beginners and we highly recommend signing up for a lesson if this is your first time. For the old pros, there are several areas to rent surfboards. 

Foodies rejoice! You can also eat and drink your way through Honolulu having extraordinary meals. Traditional Hawaiian food is a mixture of fresh, local ingredients and influences from China, Japan, Korea, Portugal, and mainland America. Lucky for you, Honolulu is one of the best places in Hawaii to dive into the food scene. Some of our favorites are poke bowls at Sato, udon and spam musubi from Murugame Udon, and don’t miss shave ice or malasadas if you have a sweet tooth. 

A quintessential Hawaiian activity is attending a luau and there are plenty to choose from in Honolulu. One of the best is the oceanfront luau at the Royal Hawaiian Hotel! These are our favorite on Oahu , but we actually say you should skip the luau and head out on this cultural catamaran experience from Waikiki .

Outdoorsy types will also have a field day around Honolulu from snorkeling and surfing to the Diamond Head Crater or Manoa Falls hike. Or just take a walk around Kapiolani Park and visit the Waikiki Aquarium and the Honolulu Zoo.

On the other hand, history buffs aren’t left out with plenty of history and heritage to explore at the Bishop Museum and the Pearl Harbor National Memorial.

And of course there is plenty of shopping and nightlife. The Ala Moana Center, the Royal Hawaiian Center, and the stores along Kalakaua Avenue all have a wide range of shops.

But wait, there’s more! 40 Things to Do on Oahu, Hawaii (we will surprise you!) 23 Best Things to Do on Oahu With Kids (from The Hawaii Vacation Guide mom and dad) 21 Amazing Things to Do on Oahu’s North Shore

Where to Stay in Honolulu:The 10 Best Places

Whether you want to be front and center in Waikiki or a little more off-the-beaten-path, these are the best places to stay in Honolulu. There aren’t many places to stay in downtown Honolulu, so you won’t see any on this list. Plus we have full reviews of most of these hotels which you can find by clicking the links in the descriptions below or book directly using the booking buttons.

1. Halekulani Hotel

The Halekulani Hotel is the picture of elegance and a fantastic place to stay if you’re celebrating something special. This oceanfront accommodation provides a tranquil respite from the bustling feel of downtown Waikiki while also providing guests with a quintessential Honolulu experience.

If opulent luxury is your cup of tea, this is the hotel for you! From unparalleled service and ultra-friendly staff, a beautiful restaurant and bar to watch the sunset, and an overall relaxing feel that can be hard to come by, Halekulani Hotel is worth the splurge – especially since there’s no resort fee.

Unfortunately, staying at one of the most luxurious hotels in Waikiki comes with an equally as extravagant price tag. Experiences are limited to exercise classes and while there isn’t much of a beach out front, the stunning 82’ pool made from 1 million glass tiles makes up for it.

2. Halepuna Hotel

Like its sister hotel, the Halekulani, Halepuna also enjoys a more quiet and secluded vibe, despite being in the heart of Waikiki. Although this hotel isn’t beachfront, it’s close, and the hot tub and infinity pool with ocean views certainly help.

Ocean-view rooms and suites overlook the beautiful Waikiki scenery and feature balconies that are great for enjoying a drink. Incredible service and friendly staff, beautiful contemporary decor and design, and access to many of the amenities at the Halekulani Hotel next door make a stay at Halepuna a no-brainer. 

Admission to several nearby attractions is included in the price of your room, including the Bishop Museum, Honolulu Museum of Art, and the Manoa Heritage Center. Rooms are a little small and parking fees can add up, but overall it’s hard to find much wrong with the Halepuna Hotel!

3. Royal Hawaiian Hotel

Nicknamed the “Pink Palace” for its rosy facade, the Royal Hawaiian Hotel first opened its doors in 1927 as Honolulu’s premier luxury hotel. The Royal Hawaiian is situated on 15 acres while still being in the center of Waikiki. This is one of our favorite accommodation options in the Waikiki neighborhood and a rare opportunity to stay in a piece of Hawaiian history, which is why we always opt for rooms in their Historic Wing.

There are two different pools onsite, one geared towards kids with a waterslide and fountain area, and one that’s more quiet and secluded. Both have plenty of lounge chairs although you might need to get there early to snag one at the kid-friendly pool. The hotel is also situated right on a beautiful stretch of beach and has chairs and umbrellas for rent.

Dining options both at and around the hotel are excellent. Three restaurants are located onsite, Mai Tai Bar, Azure, and Surfside Lanai. Bonus points for the Royal Hawaiian Bakery which serves up pink pastries and breakfast items. To top it off, one of the most highly rated luaus on Oahu, Ahaaina, is also located at the hotel and pays homage to Hawaiian royalty!

Guests can choose to stay in the historic wing (even better if you get views of the ocean) or their newer tower that has larger, updated rooms with lanais. The list of included activities is endless with morning yoga and cultural experiences like ukulele lessons, hula, and lei making, just to name a few.

While there aren’t many things that we don’t like about the Royal Hawaiian, the parking and resort fees can be a shocker ( although this is typical for hotels in Hawaii ), and having to rent beach chairs and umbrellas on the beach is a little annoying.

If you’re looking for shopping you won’t have to walk far as the Royal Hawaiian Center has plenty of stores and restaurants to keep you busy.

4. Sheraton Waikiki

The Sheraton Waikiki recently underwent a multi-year, multi-million dollar renovation and they’re finally ready to unveil it all. Suites have been updated with modern furnishings and contemporary decor with lanais that either overlook the ocean or cityscape in every room. This resort is big – and it feels like it with over 1,600 rooms.

Amenities know no bounds at the Sheraton Waikiki and include the #2 Best Hotel Pool in America according to USA Today (2nd only to the Koloa Landing on Kauai) – also shared with the Royal Hawaiian. The resort feel continues with multiple restaurants and bars like the oceanfront RumFire or Kai Market, as well as snack areas like Lawson Station and The Cookie Corner. Guests can also hop over to the Sheraton’s sister hotels, like the Royal Hawaiian , to experience their dining options. 

Cultural activities include lei making, hula, and ukulele lessons, alongside beach activities like surfing lessons. Guests are also able to easily walk over to the Royal Hawaiian Hotel, located just next door, for their awesome luau experience. Overall, the name of the game at the Sheraton Waikiki is location, location, location, and access to a never-ending list of amenities. 

Keep in mind that onsite food and drink can be pricey and getting across the resort requires a hefty walk at times.

5. Queen Kapiolani Hotel

If you’d rather forgo proximity to downtown in favor of stunning views and a more budget-friendly option, the Queen Kapiolani Hotel might be just the place! 

Guests who stay at the Queen Kapiolani can look forward to a more traditional hotel feel instead of a busy resort while still being only a few minutes’ walk from the beach and the Honolulu Zoo and located just on the outskirts of the Waikiki high rises in the Kapahulu neighborhood.

Although this is a less pricey alternative, there are still loads of fun experiences and amenities onsite. Relax at the pool with seriously jaw-dropping views of Diamond Head, take part in a lei-making class or hula lessons, and enjoy live entertainment. A poolside bar and restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner are great spots to grab a bite or drink while also providing stunning scenery. 

Did we mention they have Dole Whip and fresh juice to welcome you? While it’s definitely a more budget-friendly option, the Queen Kapiolani doesn’t escape the daily resort and parking fees that are typical of Honolulu, but it does offer up touches that make it feel like a special stay.

6. Outrigger Beachcomber

If you’re feeling a bit disenchanted by the hefty price tag of Honolulu’s resorts, the Outrigger Beachcomber might be the solution. This is one of our favorite budget options in Waikiki if you don’t mind a super short walk down to the beach.

What the Beachcomber lacks in oceanfront location it more than makes up for in both savings and proximity to activities – and places to grab a bite to eat. You’re still right in the middle of Waikiki and just a block from the beach, with a rooftop pool and hot tub to boot.

Staff were incredibly friendly during our visit and the entire design of the hotel took inspiration from local artists and is beautifully decorated. Onsite dining options include the awesome Maui Brewing Co. and the Hawaiian Aroma Caffe, both of which are inexpensive and absolutely delicious.

Some guests did complain a bit about noise due to its central location, but we didn’t find it to be anything overwhelming. At the end of the day, the Outrigger Beachcomber is the perfect middle ground of a great price and excellent location all while being beautifully designed.

7. Kahala Resort

If you’re looking for ultimate luxury – this is it! Located 15 minutes away from Waikiki in the quiet Kahala neighborhood, the Kahala Resort is the creme de la creme of Waikiki accommodations. With sprawling rooms, a luxurious open-air feel to the entire resort, and truly remarkable service, it’s no wonder why celebrities and dignitaries alike frequently book rooms here. 

This secluded, beachfront resort is your one-stop shop for a relaxing getaway with all the benefits of being close to Waikiki. Even better? No resort fees! The beach in front of the Kahala Resort is calm, both in terms of ocean conditions and fellow visitors. A reef keeps out the swells while simultaneously providing a great place for kids to splash around.

If you’re expecting to be in a walkable destination, this option probably isn’t for you. You’ll need a car and parking fees aren’t included. The same goes for an opulent pool experience. While the Kahala Resort’s pool is in a beautiful spot with ocean views and poolside service, its fairly small. 

Another important factor to keep in mind is that this hotel offers Dolphin Quest. Essentially, dolphins are kept in captivity here and while they’re well cared for, it might make some visitors uneasy – particularly the fact that you can frequently see them swimming in their lagoon from some of the rooms.

8. Hyatt Regency Waikiki

Prime access to the beach, recently renovated rooms, located right in the beating heart of Waikiki, and luxury amenities like a spa and fancy restaurants. What more could you ask for? The Hyatt Regency Waikiki offers all of this and more at its nearly oceanfront resort.

This resort feels posh and it’s big, we’re talking over 1,200 rooms! Dining options are elegant and include restaurants like the SHOR and SWIM, both featuring local ingredients, as well as the Buffet at Hyatt an open-air restaurant with international dinner options. 

You’ll be in the center of it all here which means it can feel a bit busy at times. If you don’t mind sacrificing peace and tranquility in nature for being a walking distance from anything and everything, this is might be your best bet in Honolulu!

Note that parking is very pricey at $50 to $60 a night depending on if you want valet service (and then you’ll want to factor in tips). You’ll also need to fork up some serious cash to eat at the resort and the pool can get pretty busy at times.

9. Aston Waikiki Beach Tower

While the Aston Waikiki Beach Tower feels like a 5-star resort, it’s actually individual vacation rentals! Despite each unit being separately owned, you’ll still feel like you’re staying at a Waikiki resort or hotel with cultural activities, daily housekeeping, both yoga classes and a fitness center, and two pools, one that’s specifically geared towards kids.

One of the main draws here is the space. So much room for activities! Each apartment is 880 to 1,200 square feet, depending on how many bedrooms you want. You’ll also have the added comfortability of in-unit laundry, private lanais, and a full-size kitchen, all great if you have little ones in tow. If you don’t feel like cooking, you’re also a few minutes’ walk from the best restaurants in Waikiki. Did we mention the beach is less than a block away?

10. Waikiki Shore

The Waikiki Shore is Honolulu’s only vacation rental option that also happens to be beachfront. Decor and furnishings vary due to the fact that each of these condos is individually owned, but this also makes it fun to go through and choose the one that suits you best. When booking, be sure to look for an oceanfront room that offers beautiful views of the sparkling Pacific Ocean and Diamond Head in the distance. 

Room size varies from a studio to a 2-bedroom suite, giving guests additional flexibility in price and room size. This is another Outrigger property and accommodations can be booked via their website and VRBO. Although there is no pool located onsite, guests are able to use the pool at the hotel next door. Plenty of restaurants and bars are within walking distance along with the pretty Fort DeRussy Beach Park.

Want to expand your search? Check out our favorite places to stay on all of Oahu !

An Itinerary to Plan the Rest of Your Trip

It really doesn’t get any easier than this. Wherever you are in the planning process, you’ve probably realized there’s  a lot  that goes into planning the perfect Hawaii vacation. It’s hard to have a bad trip to Hawaii, but we make it easy to have an extraordinary one. From truly countless trips ourselves, living on Oahu and Maui, to all the research we’ve done, we cut straight to the chase in our  itineraries . Just pick the island(s) you want to visit and get ready to experience the islands like a local.

We loved both of these itineraries!  It was an excellent use of our money.  I would recommend them to anyone who plans to travel to Hawaii.  The itineraries were both so well written and easy to use.  All the restaurant recommendations were amazing!  We loved every minute of our 2 week vacation and plan to come back to different islands and use hawaii vacation guide itineraries to help us navigate the different islands. Kimberly H + family

Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary

Get the oahu itinerary.

The step-by-step itinerary takes you to all the best beaches, snorkeling spots, restaurants, and sights. You’ll get six carefully planned excursion days to help you see the can’t miss stops no matter how limited your time is.

Get all the details on our itinerary and download it for a memorable and easily planned trip to Oahu.

Don’t lose this list, Pin it for later! Follow us on Pinterest

I'm the co-founder, with my husband Jordan, of The Hawaii Vacation Guide. We have lived on Maui and Oahu and continue to travel, experience, and learn about the Hawaiian Islands. We travel with our kids, Henry and Edith. I am a planner! I love to plan trips from the mainland and island-hopping adventures, excursion days, and everything in-between. I spend a lot of my time in Hawai'i on a SUP and my favorite time of year in Hawai'i is whale season!

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19 of the best places to visit in Hawaii

Mar 5, 2024 • 13 min read

Narrow down your Hawaii hit list with these top places to visit © Fly View Productions / Getty Images

No matter what you're looking for in a vacation – adventure, relaxation, romance, cultural experiences, food – Hawaii has it all.

Every island has its own kind of vibe, from the laid-back serenity of Kauaʻi to the bustling beach towns of Maui. There are so many unique experiences , too, like hiking to an active volcano on Hawaiʻi Island and watching monster surf crash on Oʻahu's North Shore.

With so many options, here's a shortcut to the best experiences you can have in the Aloha State.

1. Waikiki, Oʻahu

Waikiki on Oʻahu's sunny south shore is the state's most famous resort town. Over the years, the neighborhood has evolved to be less kitschy and more authentic. Hotels offer lei-making classes in their open-air lobbies, and traditional hula is showcased on the tiki torch-lit hula mound on Kuhio Beach . Take surfing lessons from modern-day beach boys or indulge in afternoon tea at the historic Moana Surfrider . Some of the island's best restaurants are located in Waikiki, too.

Planning tip : The Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort has been putting on a fireworks show every Friday night since 1988 (bar the pandemic years). Bring a picnic dinner and find a spot on the beach to watch the skies light up. The show starts at 7:45pm during the winter and 8pm in the summer.

Explore more of O'ahu with this ultimate long weekend itinerary

2. Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, Hawaiʻi Island

The 323,431-acre Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park on Hawaiʻi Island is a place unlike anywhere else in Hawaii (or the US). This is one of the few places in the world where you can drive up to safely view an active volcano. Kilauea , an active shield volcano, had been, up until 2018, continuously erupting and altering the landscape since 1983. It's currently not active , but that can change any day. The national park – one of five on the Big Island – stretches from sea level to the summit of the 13,679ft Mauna Loa , one of the largest volcanoes in the world. Trek along one of dozens of hiking routes in the park and see old lava flows and tubes, steam vents, and native trees and birds.

Detour : Stop at Volcano Village, a rustic town in the middle of a lush rainforest filled with native hapuʻu fern and 'ōhiʻa trees just outside the park. You can find quaint vacation rentals here, a handful of restaurants, a farmers market on Sundays, a small winery that sells locally produced wine, an orchid farm and the Volcano Art Center , a working arts studio and gallery.

Save our complete first-timer's guide to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park

3. The Island of Molokaʻi

Undeveloped and often overlooked, Molokaʻi offers some of the most unique experiences of any of the Hawaiian Islands. Spanning 38 miles long and 10 miles across at its widest point, this island – the fifth largest in Hawaii – is home to the world's tallest sea cliffs, the longest waterfall in the Islands and one of the state's largest white-sand beaches, Papohaku Beach . 

There are no big resorts or traffic lights here; instead, you'll find the windswept Moʻomomi Dunes, the 2744-acre Kamakou Preserve with its unique montane bog, and the secluded Kalaupapa Peninsula, once an isolated community of patients with Hansen's disease. Stop at Kanemitsu Bakery in Kaunakakai for freshly made Molokaʻi sweet bread right out of the oven.

4. Hana, Maui

The 53-mile Hana Highway – also known as the Road to Hana – is as scenic as it is winding. The road twists across 59 mostly one-lane bridges, along plunging cliffs, past waterfalls and around 620 turns to the unspoiled town of Hana on Maui's northeast coast. The drive itself – which can take several hours – is part of the journey. Once in Hana, enjoy hala tree-lined Hamoa Beach , sunbathe at Waiʻānapanapa State Park's black-sand beach, or hike to the 400ft Waimoku Falls in the Kīpahulu end of Haleakalā National Park . 

Planning tip : If you're planning to visit Waiʻānapanapa State Park,  you'll have to book reservations , which can be made up to 30 days in advance. It costs $5 per person and $10 for parking per non-commercial vehicle.

5. Nāpali Coast, Kauaʻi

The towering green cliffs of the fabled Nāpali Coast rise 2000ft from the ocean and stretch 15 miles along Kauaʻi's rugged northern coastline. You can experience these verdant valleys and razor-edged cliffs aboard a catamaran, on a kayak, from a helicopter or along the 11-mile Kalalau Trail.

Planning tip : To get to Keʻe Beach , the start of the Kalalau Trail, you'll need to make advance reservations to enter Hāʻena State Park. It costs $5 for out-of-state visitors to enter the park, $10 for each car.

6. North Shore, Oʻahu

In winter – from November to February – some of the world's best surfers (and thousands of spectators) flock to Oʻahu's North Shore and its 7 miles of famous breaks, from Banzai Pipeline to Sunset Beach . Once in a while, the waves are big enough (consistently larger than 40ft, measured from the front of the wave) at Waimea Bay to hold the prestigious, invite-only Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitation. Summer brings calmer ocean conditions, great for swimming and snorkeling. The colorful beach town of Haleʻiwa features cute boutiques, eateries and the famous Matsumoto Shave Ice shop.

Detour : To get a bird's-eye view of this famous coastline, take the 2-mile ʻEhukai Pillbox hike. The trail climbs the side of the northern Koʻolau Mountains to WWII bunkers that offer panoramic views of the entire North Shore coastline.

7. Haleakalā National Park, Maui

Catching the sunrise at the top of Haleakalā, a dormant volcano that rises to 10,023ft above sea level, is one of the most popular activities on Maui. Reservations are required for sunrise – and the fee doesn't include entrance into the national park – and can be hard to get. Consider viewing the sunset instead and staying for the night sky. The park also has numerous hiking trails through otherworldly landscapes and the chance to see the endangered ʻāhinahina (silversword) and nēnē (Hawaiian goose), the state bird.

Planning tip : The park offers pristine dark skies – with minimal light pollution – perfect for stargazing. Temperatures can drop quickly at the summit, so dress warmly and bring layers. You'll also want to bring your own snacks, as there are no food or drinks available in the park.

8. Hanalei, Kauaʻi

On Kauaʻi's quiet north shore is the sleepy town of Hanalei , marked by emerald green mountains, kalo loʻi (flooded taro fields) and some of the island's best beaches, including the breathtaking Hanalei Bay with its historic pier. Browse art galleries and boutiques, eat fresh poke from Hanalei Poke and plant-based taro doughnuts from Holey Grail, and walk around a farmers market.

Detour : About 2 miles west of Hanalei Bay is Lumahaʻi Beach , made famous by the 1958 classic film South Pacific . This is where Mitzi Gaynor spent her time "washing that man right out of her hair."

9. Maunakea, Hawaiʻi Island

Maunakea , or "white mountain," is, at 13,802ft above sea level, the world's tallest mountain when measured from its base. (More than half, or 19,698ft, of Maunakea lies underwater, making it 33,500ft from base to summit.) It's considered one of the most sacred of all Hawaiʻi volcanoes and is known by Native Hawaiians as a region of the gods. It's also a hub of astronomical observation with more than a dozen massive telescopes from around the world. You can book guided stargazing tours with outfitters like Hawaiʻi Forest & Trail .

Detour : In April,  Hilo , which is about 30 minutes west of Maunakea, hosts the annual Merrie Monarch Festival , a competitive hula festival featuring some of the state's best dancers and performers. You have to book tickets in advance to attend the event, but the craft show, which is a huge draw, is open to the public.

10. Pearl Harbor, Oʻahu

Known for the 1941 attack on the USS Arizona , which launched the US into WWII, Pearl Harbor draws millions of visitors each year to the memorial erected in honor of the 1102 men who are still entombed in the metal hull of the battleship. You can catch a boat to the USS Arizona Memorial , tour the aircraft hangars of the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum , and stand on the decks of the "Mighty Mo" battleship where Imperial Japan formally surrendered in 1945. Pearl Harbor was once known as Wai Momi, or pearl waters, because of its abundant oyster beds.

11. Upcountry Maui, Maui

On the slopes of Haleakalā are the quaint towns of Kula and Makawao, collectively known as Upcountry Maui. Up here, the air is crispier, and the vibe is slower. Pick fresh strawberries in season at Kula Country Farms , wander around the fragrant Aliʻi Kula Lavender Farm , or feed goats at Surfing Goat Dairy. This area is famous for its paniolo , or Hawaiian cowboys.

Detour : Not many visitors know that grapes are grown here. Open since 1974, MauiWine produces wines made from estate-grown grapes, pineapples and raspberries. Visit its tasting room at the picturesque ʻUlupalakua Ranch.

12. Waimea Canyon, Kauaʻi

Called the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific," Waimea Canyon, with its buttes, crags and earthen colors, stretches 10 miles long, is 1 mile wide and is more than 3600ft deep. Stop at the Waimea Canyon Lookout for sweeping views of the canyon and the 800ft Waipoʻo Falls . But you can also experience the canyon via numerous hiking trails, on horseback and from a helicopter. Any way you see it, it's breathtaking.

Detour : The best trails are located within the 4345-acre Kōkeʻe State Park . The cost is $5 per person (nonresident) and $10 per car. From the park, you can stop at the Kalalau Lookout at 4120ft above the Nāpali Coast, with commanding views of the lush, amphitheater-headed Kalalau Valley. Camping is available, and the restaurant is worth a stop (but note: it only serves breakfast and lunch.)

13. South Kona, Hawaiʻi Island

Head south from Kailua-Kona, and you'll be in coffee country. This area – Kaʻawaloa (Captain Cook), Hōnaunau, Kāʻu – is known for its high-quality coffee grown exclusively in this high elevation and volcanic soils on the slopes of Hualālai Volcano. There are hundreds of farms here, and many offer guided tours and free tastings. Hōlualoa is a small artsy town with cute shops. Kealakekua Bay in the region of Captain Cook provides some of the island's best snorkeling. And Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park is a sacred place of refuge that you wander on a half-mile walking tour.

Detour : In Keauhou, you can dive at night with the gentle manta rays that swim along this coastline. Seeing these graceful giants glide and twirl in the water with you is an experience you won't likely forget.

14. ʻIolani Palace, Oʻahu

Built in 1882 under King David Kalākaua, ʻIolani Palace in Downtown Honolulu is the only royal residence in the US. It took three years to complete at a cost of $343,595, with Hawaiʻi's first electric light system, flush toilets and intra-house telephones. The last two monarchs of the Hawaiian Kingdom – King Kalākaua and his sister and successor, Queen Liliʻuokalani – resided here until the overthrow of the kingdom in 1893. You can tour this American Florentine-style palace and see its throne rooms, dining rooms and the private living quarters of the royal family.

Detour : Walk to nearby Chinatown and browse the markets or eat at one of the many restaurants – ranging from Korean takeout to poke bowls to restaurants run by James Beard Award-winners and nominees – in this neighborhood.

15. Molokini, Maui

Three miles off shore from Wailea on Maui is Molokini Crater, known for its deep, crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life. This crescent-shaped islet is a marine preserve, home to more than 250 species of tropical fish. The only way to get to this popular snorkeling and diving site is by boat.

Planning tip : While the boat ride out to Molokini is typically smooth, the journey back can be tumultuous. If you're prone to seasickness, either sit in the center of the boat where it's more stable or take some motion-sickness remedies.

16. Kailua, Oʻahu

A quick 15-minute drive from Honolulu, Kailua seems like a world away. The beach town is built around Kailua Beach , a powdery-white stretch of sand that runs 2.5 miles long. People fish, surf, kayak, swim and paddle canoes in these waters. Nearby Lanikai Beach , with its unobstructed views of the Mokulua Islands, is another popular stop for beach lovers. It's smaller and more secluded than Kailua Beach, but often more crowded because of its reputation for calm waters and gorgeous vistas. The town itself boasts popular restaurants, boutiques, local breweries and a great locally-owned independent bookshop called Bookends.

Planning tip : Consider exploring Kailua town by bike. You can rent one from The Bike Shop . (There's no city-run bike-sharing on this side of the island.) The shop has a range of cruisers, mountain bikes and road bikes for rent, complete with helmets and bike locks. Electra cruises – the most popular bikes – start at $18 for up to four hours. You can book online and pick it up at the shop.

17. Old Lahaina Lūʻau, Maui

Open in 1986, the locally owned Old Lahaina Lūʻau on Maui has been a favorite lūʻau for decades, showcasing traditional hula , music and food. It's located right on the ocean off Front Street in Lahaina with great sunset views. Tickets include live entertainment, an open bar, historical storytelling and chanting, and an all-you-can-eat buffet with Hawaiian staples like lau lau, kālua pig, poi and poke .

18. Hanauma Bay, Oʻahu

This protected nature preserve in East Honolulu is one of the best spots to snorkel on Oʻahu . About 400 species of fish inhabit this bay, along with honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles) and the occasional endangered Hawaiian monk seal. There are restrictions for access to this popular bay: online reservations are required , and it costs $25 per person for non-Hawaii residents 13 years and older. Parking is another US$3 per car. The bay is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Planning tip : You can rent snorkel gear at the bay, so you don't have to lug your own. While you can walk down the steep road to the beach, you can also opt to take the free tram (we recommend that on the way back to your car).

Least known of all the Hawaiian Islands – and the smallest inhabited island – Lanaʻi is an ideal escape. Stay in luxurious resorts with world-class amenities fronting the beautiful and secluded Hulopoʻe Beach , a designated marine preserve filled with colorful fish and sometimes spinner dolphins. Or explore the rest of the island – the wild and windswept 8-mile Shipwreck Beach (complete with an actual shipwreck), the ancient fishing village of Kaunolū , or visit the strange landscape of Keahikawelo (Garden of the Gods).

Planning tip : If you want to venture outside the resorts of Lanaʻi City, you'll need to rent a four-wheel drive vehicle. There's no public transportation or ride-sharing on the island.

This article was first published Jun 18, 2021 and updated Mar 5, 2024.

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Which hawaiian island is the best to visit our 2024 ranking.

Though it can be easy to assume the six most visited Hawaiian Islands offer similar experiences, they are more diverse than you can imagine. From Waimea Canyon to Waikiki Beach, Hawaii’s wealth of natural beauty (think: cerulean waters, verdant vegetation and stunning white sand beaches ) is just waiting to be explored. To help you decide which Hawaiian Island is ideal for your next vacation, U.S. News took into account sights, expert opinion and reader input to determine the best Hawaiian Islands to visit. Vote for your favorite island below to have a say in next year's list. 

Kaua'i

Hawaii - the big island, honolulu - oahu.

Though it's perhaps most famous for the fabulous coastlines of Ka'anapali Beach and Wailea Beach, Maui is a great option for both couples and families looking for variety in their vacation. Away from the sand, you can drive the Road to Hana, enjoy a bird's-eye view during a helicopter tour , see one of the world's largest dormant volcanoes at Haleakala National Park and get up close to marine wildlife while snorkeling in Honolua Bay or around Molokini. Then, for an experience you won’t forget, relax on the volcanic coastline of Wai'anapanapa State Park, where jet-black sands meet vibrant sapphire waters.

With a more easygoing environment than other islands like Oahu and the Big Island, the Garden Isle lets its wild, natural beauty speak for itself and is perfect for an adventurous getaway. The main attractions here are Koke'e State Park and Waimea Canyon, otherwise known as the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific." But you also won’t want to miss Kaua'i’s breathtaking Wailua Falls or dreamy Po'ipu Beach. And if a challenging hike is what you’re after, it doesn’t get more scenic than the Kalalau Trail along the rugged Napali Coast. Just remember to pack galoshes and a rain jacket – Kaua'i is one of Hawaii's rainiest islands.

The island of Hawaii's bevy of one-of-a-kind attractions and family-friendly activities makes it ideal for travelers who prefer a jam-packed itinerary. Not only does the Big Island offer white and black sand beaches , including the famous Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, it is also home to lush rainforests and two active volcanoes at Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. History buffs will love visiting Pu'ukohola Heiau National Historic Site (home to one of Hawaii's largest restored temples) and Kealakekua Bay (where British explorer James Cook first arrived in 1779). Or, head to Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park to see petroglyphs, ancient Hawaiian fishponds and green sea turtles.

The least-developed island on this list, Moloka'i was made for those who don’t mind going off the beaten path. With lush rainforests, miles of beautiful beaches and some of the tallest sea cliffs in the world, Moloka'i is a great place to reconnect with nature, whether you’re staying overnight at one of Moloka'i’s quiet oceanfront cottages – there is only one hotel on the island – or visiting on a day trip from one of the other Hawaiian Islands. Top activities here include soaking up some sun on secluded Papohaku Beach, snorkeling Moloka'i's 28-mile reef or joining a guided cultural hike through Halawa Valley.

Dubbed The Gathering Place, Oahu is home to plenty of famous sites and a great jumping-off point for first-time visitors to the Hawaiian Islands. On the South Shore, you'll find Waikiki Beach, Hanauma Bay, Pearl Harbor National Memorial and Le'ahi (Diamond Head) State Monument, all in or near the capital city of Honolulu. Meanwhile, the North Shore is home to a more laid-back vibe, as well as the renowned waves at Waimea Bay and Sunset Beach, which host major surfing competitions every year. After exploring along the coast, head inland to the tranquil Byodo-In Temple, a replica of a Buddhist temple in Uji, Japan.

For a secluded, nature-centric escape, set your sights on Lana'i. Centrally located between Maui and Moloka'i, this remote hideaway makes a great home base for inter-island travel. Travelers can take a four-wheel-drive vehicle to spots like Kaiolohia (Shipwreck Beach) and Kaunolu Village, a prehistoric fishing village that was once frequented by King Kamehameha I, or spend their days sunbathing on Polihua Beach. In winter, head to Hulopo'e Bay for terrific whale-watching opportunities. Then, make your way to Keahiakawelo (Garden of the Gods), an enchanting rock garden that was once part of a native dryland forest, for a breathtaking Lana'i sunset. 

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7 Most Beautiful Places To Visit In Hawaii - The Islands of Hawaii

T he Islands of Hawaii are full of enchanting natural wonders – so many, in fact, that there are countless places you likely have never heard of before. From majestic caves and hidden beaches to spellbinding geological formations and ancient Hawaiian sacred spots, here are 7 of the most beautiful places in the Islands of Hawaii.

  Mauna Kea

In Hawaiian mythology, Mauna Kea is home to the snow goddess Poli‘ahu. In ancient times, the summit was considered the realm of the gods and was forbidden to all except the highest chiefs and priests. Today, astronomers from around the world explore the universe from its summit and the Hawaiian people go to it in search of ancient spiritual connections. For visitors, it is one of the clearest places on the planet for viewing the night sky and offers a rare opportunity to experience the polar tundra in Hawaii.

Golden Ponds of Ke-awa-iki

Deserted black sand beach, Ke-awa-iki Beach is enchanting, rarely visited, and offers extraordinary snorkeling. Near the beach, in the middle of the a’a lava flows, are the stunning Ke-awa-iki Golden Ponds; a unique ecosystem of golden algae in freshwater ponds. 

Akaka Falls 

Akaka Falls is a breathtaking 420ft waterfall and is undoubtedly one of the most captivating waterfalls on the Big Island . The most fascinating part of the falls? The goby fish, called “o’opu alamao’o”,  literally climb up the wet rocks behind the falls to reach their spawning grounds. 

Kaumana Cave  

A fern draped opening into the earth, that enchants us to explore what was once the domain of Pele, the goddess of volcanoes and fire and the creator of the Hawaiian Islands, a place of fire and molten rock, now a cool, dripping passage beneath the earth.  

Green Sand Beach

Papakolea Beach is a green sand beach at Mahana Bay and is truly magical with breathtaking scenery and wide-open vistas. It’s the only green sand beach in Hawaii and one of only four in the entire world, you will be in awe. But, do not remove the sand from the beach. The volcano goddess Pele has been known to wreak havoc upon visitors who remove green or black sand from her beaches. Don’t say I didn’t warn you!

Honaunau Bay  “Two Step”  

Two Step is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the Hawaii archipelago. With hundreds of multi-colored fish swimming in shoals, consistent visits from dolphins and seals, deep blue crystal clear waters, striking coral seabeds, and green sea turtles abound, Two Step is quite simply a must! And the marvelous federal park leading to the bay is where kappa breakers, defeated warriors, and civilians found refuge in ancient Hawaiian times. The historical significance of this place is truly awe-inspiring and the energy here of forgiveness and peace can be felt deep inside.

South Point  “Ka Lae”  

Ka Lae is the southernmost tip of the US and is registered as a National Historic Landmark. It is sprinkled with fishing shrines, temple ruins, and other cultural relics. A trip here is a chance to experience the elements: land, air, and sea.  That’s what South Point is all about: nature’s raw and mighty beauty.

So whether you visit the Big Island for the exhilarating cliff jumping, the bragging rights to say you have stood on the southernmost piece of land in the US, the majestic caves, or just to enjoy the stunning views from the end of the world, Hawaii is a magical destination for unforgettable memories. What are your favorite places to visit when you travel to the Islands of Hawaii?

I hope this list of 7 most beautiful places to visit in Hawaii, the Big Island, inspires you to get out and explore the beauty the world has to offer. Even if it’s in your own backyard!

The post 7 Most Beautiful Places To Visit In Hawaii – The Islands of Hawaii appeared first on The Adventures Of Life-Spontaneous Travel, Food and Fun .

Honolulu Pawn Shop

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675 Auahi St

Honolulu, HI 96813

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Here's a fun new artsy place in Kaka'ako... Honolulu Pawn Shop occupied the former Paiko location right in SALT and has a collection of various cool items mostly clothing along side of some beautiful art, some accessories and what I absolutely loved was some of their cutest totes. Walking in there was a huge cooler filled with Asato Family treats that got my curiosity but I still had errands and didn't want it to melt but will stop by again and see if they'd still have them cause it sure looked amazing. Not sure who was the staff there as when I walked in felt like I got a bunch of stares as I just finished work and didn't feel like I was welcomed though I loved what I saw and started to browse a bit and took a few pics, some of the items felt pricey though know the quality in some of them that was there and as a crafter myself understand the love and pride they all took in it all. Honolulu Pawn Shop is the place to explore it all as they collaborate or "Activation" is what I see on their Instagram @honolulupawn weather it's by food, artists and at this visit was custom embroidered hats by @thumbdrumbs there's always something going on and as we speak an actual Party for the New Years at Kaimana Beach Hotel...this place is something to behold for 2024. Thank you!

Very nice boutique with the less is awesome! Buy now because tomorrow it'll be gone! It had a nice flow of customers. Nice selection. Definitely worth going, I was happy my daughter (25 yrs old) would have had a field day!lol

Very cute store, with a lot of cute items, especially the jewelry, but did not feel welcomed by the girls that work there at all. Overall the store is nice.

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4.1 miles away from Honolulu Pawn Shop

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1.2 miles away from Honolulu Pawn Shop

Betty W. said "Lands' End is the perfect destination for those seeking unique and one-of-a-kind finds. The charming storefronts are filled with handcrafted goods, vintage treasures, and artisanal products that you won't find anywhere else. The…" read more

in Women's Clothing, Men's Clothing, Children's Clothing

Collections Including Honolulu Pawn Shop

By Gabby R.

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