Best Things to Do in Honolulu

The best things to do in Honolulu often involve exploring the island of Oahu’s natural wonders and rich Hawaiian heritage. Whether you're into adventure, culture, or just unwinding, Honolulu delivers unforgettable experiences.

From hikes up Diamond Head for panoramic views of Waikiki Beach, to wandering through the tropical beauty of Waimea Valley, Honolulu has something for every adventurer. Ready to review some of our favorite places to explore? Let’s go!

Honolulu's Iconic Landmarks

Honolulu is a city where history and natural beauty collide, and its different landmarks are dreamlike and inspiring. These natural wonders and heritage gems aren’t just popular spots; they’re windows into the soul of the Hawaiian Islands.

Waikiki Beach

Waikiki Beach stretches along Kalakaua Avenue, with lengths of golden sand and calm waters perfect for a picturesque day of relaxation. As one of the most popular attractions in Honolulu, the beach draws in millions of visitors each year—this is where you’ll find multiple beachfront resorts.

• Location: Located in the south shore of Honolulu
• Cost: Free access to the beach
• Age Suitability: All ages
• Known For: Catching stunning sunsets, shopping high-end boutiques on Kalakaua Avenue, enjoying a beachfront dinner.
• Pro Tip: For a truly local experience, join an early morning outrigger canoe ride or stroll the Waikiki Historic Trail to uncover its rich history.

💡Did you know? Waikiki was once a playground for Hawaiian royalty.

Diamond Head

Diamond Head State Monument is more than just the perfect photo op—it’s a famous, must-see natural landmark with quite a story to tell. The 300,000-year-old volcanic crater is known as ‘Le’ahi’ in Hawaiian and was once a key part of Oahu’s defense system.

It’s a place where geology, history, and culture converge, making Diamond Head not just a natural wonder but a symbol of Hawaii’s rich and layered past.

• Cost: 5$USD for adults, free for children. Plan for parking fees (about 10$USD) also.
• Age Suitability: All ages
• Known For: Catching stunning sunsets, admiring landscapes of Oahu and breathtaking views.
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Distance: 1.8 miles/2.9 km ; about 500 ft elevation.
• Opening hours: 6am to 6pm. Last entry at 4:30pm
• Pro Tip: Reserve your spot early.

Pearl Harbor

Pearl Harbor is a powerful, historical attraction in Honolulu, serving as a reminder of the events that shaped World War II. The USS Arizona Memorial, which floats above the sunken battleship, is a somber yet awe-inspiring experience accessible by a short boat ride.

• Location: 1 Arizona Memorial Pl, Honolulu, HI 96818
• Age suitability: All ages
• Cost: Free general admission, some tours and museums may charge
• Known for: USS Arizona Memorial, WWII history, museums
• Best time to go: Morning for cooler weather and fewer crowds
• Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Pro Tip : You’ll have to store your bag before you enter…so be sure to pack something small.

💡Did you know? Over 1.8 million visitors pay their respects here annually.

Iolani Palace

Iolani Palace was built in 1882 by King Kalakaua, who was known as the "Merrie Monarch" and a visionary leader who sought to modernize Hawaii while preserving its rich cultural heritage. The palace was designed by Thomas J. Baker, Charles J. Wall, and Isaac Moore in the distinctive American Florentine style.

Today, it stands as a one of the most interesting museums in Hawaii and a symbol of Hawaiian heritage, preserving the stories of a nation’s past. Whether you’re a history buff or just curious, a visit here is one of the must-see attractions in Honolulu. You can book a guided tour to uncover exclusive facts and gain a deeper appreciation for this cultural gem.

• Location: 364 S King St, Honolulu, HI 96813
• Age suitability: All ages
• Cost: $26+ for adults | prices vary
• Opening Hours: Tuesday–Saturday 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Known for: Former royal residence, Hawaiian monarchy, historical artifacts
• Best time to go: Morning for guided tours and cooler temps

Outdoor Activities in Honolulu

Honolulu is an outdoor lover’s paradise, offering everything from sparkling waters to lush landscapes that are sure to make for the perfect day out.

Koko Crater

The Koko Crater Trail is not for the faint of heart, but the reward is worth every step of this steep climb. At 1,048 steps, the climb follows an old railway track straight up the side of Koko Crater, offering a heart-pumping workout and rewarding you with some of the most panoramic views in Honolulu.

As you ascend, you’ll pass through lush vegetation and rocky terrain, all while taking in the sparkling Pacific Ocean and the neighboring Hawaiian Islands.

• Location: Waikiki & Honolulu Region
• Cost: Free
• Age Suitability: Not suitable for children; suitable for experienced hikers.
• Known For: 360 views of east Honolulu shoreline to parts of Moloka'i
• Difficulty: Hard hike, steep incline
• Distance: 1.4 miles/2.25 km - 1208ft above sea level
• Opening hours: 4am to 11pm
• Pro Tip: The parking is free at the Koko Head District Park parking lot.

Hanauma Bay

The Hanauma Bay natural preserve is home to vibrant coral reefs and many species of marine life, including colorful parrotfish, elusive octopuses, and the beloved green sea turtles. The bay’s calm, crystal-clear waters make it ideal for both beginners and experienced snorkelers.

But here’s the thing: Hanauma Bay is more than just a beautiful spot—it’s a conservation success story. Due to over-tourism and coral bleaching, strict measures are in place to protect this fragile ecosystem. Be respectful and enjoy observing aquatic creatures in their natural habitat.

• Location: 7455 Kalanianaole Hwy, Honolulu, Hawaii
• Cost: $25 USD park entry fee | Free for locals, military, & kids under 12
• Age Suitability: All ages
• Known For: A great place to observe hundreds of species of fish, coral, and other aquatic creatures.
• Opening hours: 6:45am to 4pm – Closed on Mondays and Tuesday
• Best time to go: Early morning to avoid the heat

Honolulu Zoo

The Honolulu Zoo, located near the iconic Waikiki Beach,is home to over 900 animals, from playful primates to majestic lions. Children will love the Keiki (Kids) Zoo, where they can get up close with farm animals, while the African Savanna exhibit offers a mini-safari experience without leaving the island.

• Location: 151 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815
• Cost: $21 USD adults | $13 USD children (3–12)
• Age Suitability: All ages
• Known For: Tropical animal habitats (African Savanna, primates, Keiki Zoo), playground, educational programs
• Opening hours: Daily 10 AM – 3 PM
• Best time to go: Arrive early for cooler temps, active animals, fewer crowds

💡Did you know? The Honolulu Zoo is one of the few zoos in the U.S. founded by a king. It started as part of King Kalakaua’s royal lands in the 1800s.

Manoa Falls

Manoa Falls is a must for anyone craving a slice of Hawaii’s lush beauty while hiking. It’s a magical trail that winds through a rainforest, towering bamboo groves, and vibrant tropical plants to create a scene straight out of a movie.

You’ll get to take in the beautiful 150-foot waterfall, one of Oʻahu’s must-visit waterfalls, that cascades down a moss-covered cliff. You might even say it’s a great spot for two people who are on a first date!

• Location: Manoa Falls Trailhead, Manoa Valley, Honolulu, HI
• Cost: Free entry to trail; about $10 USD for parking
• Age Suitability: All ages
• Known For: Lush rainforest, famous 150ft waterfall (the one seen in Jurassic Park!)
• Difficulty: Easy walking trail
• Distance: 1.6 miles/2.5 km (round trip)- 1208ft above sea level
• Opening hours: Daily; 6am to 6pm

Kualoa Ranch

Kualoa Ranch is one of Oahu’s top attractions, known for its dramatic cliffs, lush valleys, and iconic film locations. Visitors can explore the area through ATV tours, ziplining, kayaking, horseback riding, and cultural experiences like traditional Hawaiian fishpond tours. It’s a must-visit spot that captures the natural beauty and spirit of the Hawaiian Islands.

• Location: 49‑560 Kamehameha Hwy, Kāneʻohe, HI 96744
• Cost: Entry free | Extra cost for tours
• Age Suitability: All ages
• Known For: Scenic 4,000‑acre ranch, WWII‑era history, Jurassic Park movie sites, outdoor adventures
• Opening hours: Daily 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM
• Best time to go: Arrive early for cooler temps, active animals, fewer crowds

💡Did you know? Parts of the movie Jurassic Park were filmed at the Kualoa Ranch, making it a hot spot for die-hard fans of the franchise.

Magic Island

Magic Island is a man-made peninsula and part of Ala Moana Beach Park. If you’re looking for a relaxing day out, you can spread out a blanket for a picnic under the shade of the palm trees or take a stroll along the oceanfront path.

Ready to hit the beach? The calm waters here are ideal for a refreshing dip, and the views of the Pacific Ocean are stunning. Magic Island was originally planned as a resort but was transformed into a public park in the 1960s—lucky for us!

• Location: South Shore of Oʻahu, at the east end of Ala Moana Beach Park, near the Ala Moana Center and Waikīkī.
• Cost: Free entry
• Age Suitability: All ages
• Known For: Popular spot for picnics, spectaculat city and ocean views, serene lagoon.
• Opening hours: Daily from 4am -10pm
• Best time to go: Early morning for fewer crowds and easy parking, evening for stunning sunsets.
• Pro Tip: Bring food and water as restaurants are nearby but not directly on the island. Also, if timing aligns, take part in special events like the Lantern Floating and fireworks.

Honolulu's Cultural Attractions

Honolulu isn’t just about nature—it’s full of museums highlighting Hawaiian culture and history.

Honolulu Museum of Art

The Honolulu Museum of Art holds around 50,000 works spanning 5,000 years, with an impressive collection that includes everything from traditional Hawaiian art to contemporary masterpieces. Its galleries are filled with Japanese woodblock prints and European paintings. The museum’s collection of author James Michener’s Hawaiian art is one of the largest in the world.

Beyond the exhibits, the museum hosts special events like art classes, film screenings, and live performances. Don’t forget to check their calendar for free days.

• Location: 900 S Beretania St, Honolulu, HI 96814 Park, near the Ala Moana Center and Waikīkī.
• Cost: $25 USD for adults; Free for kids
• Age Suitability: All ages; Family Sundays, fun, kid‑focused workshops & lush courtyards
• Known For: Impressionist masters, Hawaiian art, Doris Duke film theatre
• Opening hours: Wed – Sun 10 AM – 6 PM | Fri until 9 PM | closed Mon & Tue
• Best time to go: Fri evening for HoMA Nights or weekday mornings for a calmer visit

Bishop Museum

The Bishop Museum, founded in 1889, holds artifacts, exhibits, and stories that bring the islands’ history to life. At the heart of the museum is Hawaiian Hall, a three-floor showcase of ancient artifacts, royal regalia, and stories of daily life in pre-contact Hawaii.

For a hands-on experience, the Richard T. Mamiya Science Adventure Center educates visitors on Hawaii’s environment, exploring various natural wonders.

• Location: 1525 Bernice St, Honolulu, HI 96817
• Cost:  $33.95 USD for adults
• Age Suitability: All ages
• Known For: Largest Pacific cultural & natural history collections, Hawaiian Hall, planetarium, interactive science exhibits.
• Opening hours: Daily  9 AM – 5 PM
• Best time to go: Weekday mornings to avoid crowds and enjoy the planetarium or lava‑demo shows

Ala Moana Center

Ala Moana Center is a must-visit if shopping is on your list of things to do in Honolulu. It’s the largest open-air shopping mall in the world, and it’s a paradise for shoppers as well as those simply looking for a bite to eat. You’ll find over 350 stores, including luxury brands like Gucci and Louis Vuitton as well as local favorites.

And let’s not forget the dining—over 160 eateries serve up everything from Hawaiian plate lunches to sushi and, yes, even brown gravy-smothered comfort food.

• Location: 1450 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96814
• Cost:  Free to enter; parking is free for guests
• Age Suitability: All ages
• Known For: Eateries, live hula performances, ocean breeze ambiance
• Opening hours: Daily 10 AM – 8 PM (store/restaurant hours may vary)
• Best time to go: Weekday mornings or early afternoons for cooler temps and lighter crowds

Chinatown

Chinatown’s vibrant culinary scene is home to some of the best restaurants in Hawaii. Why not grab a steaming bowl of pho or dim sum? There are also plenty of innovative farm-to-table dishes that highlight local ingredients and showcase delicious Hawaiian food.

In Chinatown’s neigborhood, the Hawaii Theatre is a must-see, beautifully restored 1920s venue hosting everything from live performances to film screenings.

For a dose of history, visit the Izumo Taishakyo Mission, a stunning Shinto shrine built in 1906. And if you’re into nightlife, Chinatown transforms after dark with trendy bars, live music, and art galleries open late.

• Location: In downtown Honolulu, bounded by Beretania St (east), Nimitz Hwy (north), Nuuanu Ave (south), and River/Bethel St (west)
• Cost:  Free
• Age Suitability: All ages
• Known For: Rich history, vibrant food scene, art and culture
• Opening hours: 24/7
• Best time to go: 8 am–12 pm for markets; First Fridays of the month & evenings for art, dining & entertainment.
• Pro Tip: Don’t miss the chance to try Manapua (Hawaii’s take on bao buns). You’ll definitely want some extra to take home!

Royal Hawaiian Center

The Royal Hawaiian Center is a must-see attraction in Honolulu, offering way more than just retail therapy. With over 110 shops and restaurants, this iconic spot on Kalakaua Avenue is about more than just browsing; you can immerse yourself in free activities like lei-making workshops, hula lessons, and live ukulele performances.

• Location: 2201 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815
• Cost:  Free to enter
• Age Suitability: All ages
• Known For: Open‑air luxury shopping, boutiques, free hula, ukulele & lei‑making classes
• Opening hours: Daily 10 AM – 9 PM
• Best time to go: Weekday mornings for fewer crowds or evenings for cultural events

Natural Beauty Around Honolulu

We all know Honolulu is home to some of the most breathtaking natural beauty in the world, but where should you start? From the lush rainforests of Manoa Valley to the dramatic cliffs of Koko Head, the island of Oahu is a paradise for nature lovers.

Oahu's Scenic Beaches

Waikiki Beach offers calm waters perfect for surfing and swimming, with Diamond Head as your backdrop. For adventure, head to Waimea Bay, famous for its massive winter waves. Snorkelers will love Hanauma Bay, the protected marine preserve teeming with colorful fish and coral reefs.

Craving tranquility? Lanikai Beach’s powdery sand and turquoise waters are perfect for those who want to sunbathe or relax with a book. For families, Kailua Beach Park offers gentle waves, picnic areas, and kayaking opportunities. And let’s not forget Sandy Beach, a local favorite for bodyboarding thanks to its powerful shore break (though it’s best left to experienced swimmers).

Explore the Island's Lush Landscapes

Challenge yourself with the Koko Head Crater Trail, offering panoramic views of the island’s southeastern coast. Or hike the Manoa Falls Trail, where a short trek through a rainforest leads to the stunning waterfall mentioned earlier!

The Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden is a 400-acre oasis filled with tropical plants, serene lakes, and postcard-worthy mountain backdrops. It was designed as a flood protection project in the 1980s, but its 400 acres of tropical plants, tranquil lakes, and jaw-dropping views of the Koʻolau Mountains have made it one of Oahu’s most beloved green spaces.

💡Did you know? Oahu is home to over 1,000 plant species, some found nowhere else on earth?

Experience the Pacific Ocean's Marine Life

The Pacific Ocean surrounding the island of Oahu is a playground for marine enthusiasts, offering some of the best opportunities to connect with underwater wonders. Fitting, as Hawaii is home to 25% of the world’s marine species. Why not join a scuba diving tour to explore shipwrecks and encounter sea turtles, dolphins, and even reef sharks? An underwater camera is a must!

Prefer to stay dry? Hop on a catamaran or whale-watching tour—between December and April, you might spot humpback whales breaching in the distance. Snorkeling, diving, or cruising on a boat tour? These are all great options to experience the magic of the ocean—you might make an aquatic encounter you won't ever forget!

Discover the Island's Volcanic Craters

Oahu’s volcanic craters are more than just dramatic backdrops—they’re windows into the island’s fiery past. Did you know these craters were formed over 300,000 years ago during Oahu’s volcanic eruptions? While Diamond Head is the most famous, don’t overlook Koko Crater, a lesser known but equally stunning hike.

The Punchbowl Crater is home to the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, featuring ‘The Courts of the Missing,’ a memorial wall inscribed with the names of over 28,000 missing in action.

Plan Your Honolulu Adventure

Now that you’ve got all the best spots to visit, these additional planning tips will help make your trip unforgettable. Here are some of our tips and frequently asked questions;

• Visiting between December and March (peak season)? Book popular activities like Kualoa Ranch tours or snorkeling at Hanauma Bay well in advance. You’ll save money and make sure your spot is secured!
• Remember that certain sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate can harm precious coral reefs! Opt for mineral-based formulas to ensure your exploration is safe and respectful to the environment around you. You can purchase reef safe sunscreen to prepare.
• Looking to get around? Renting a car is ideal for exploring beyond the city, but Kalakaua Avenue and Waikiki are easily walkable.

What Are the Must-See Attractions in Honolulu?

Honolulu is packed with once-in-a-lifetime experiences that will leave you with lasting memories! Don’t miss the beaches for their golden sands and sunbathing, or the historic Pearl Harbor Memorial for a poignant look at history. For nature lovers, parks like the Diamond Head Crater give you the chance to hike while you take in the scenery.

Need a guide to help you make the most of your day? Why not check out our blog post on the best Hawaii tours?

How Much Time Should I Spend at Pearl Harbor?

You should plan to spend at least half a day at Pearl Harbor to fully experience its key sites, like the USS Arizona Memorial, USS Missouri, and the Pacific Aviation Museum. If you're a history enthusiast, consider a full day to explore all the exhibits and take your time reflecting on the significance of the location.

What Is the Best Time to Visit Honolulu?

The best time to visit Honolulu is during the off-season of April to June or September to November. You'll enjoy pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and better rates compared to the busy summer and winter holiday peaks. Keep in mind that winter (December to March) brings larger waves, which are ideal for surfers but less so for calm beach days.

Are There Any Free Activities in Honolulu?

Honolulu offers plenty of free activities. Relax at Waikiki Beach, hike the Makapu'u Point Lighthouse Trail for breathtaking ocean views, or explore the vibrant history of downtown Honolulu, including the King Kamehameha Statue and Iolani Palace grounds. Don’t miss the free hula shows and live music at Kuhio Beach Park!

What Are the Best Family-Friendly Activities in Honolulu?

Families can spend the day at the Honolulu Zoo or Waikiki Aquarium or enjoy a picnic at Kapiolani Park. For adventure, hike the family-friendly Diamond Head Crater or take a snorkeling trip to Hanauma Bay. Don’t forget the interactive exhibits at the Bishop Museum, which kids love!

Aloha and Mahalo: Your Honolulu Journey Awaits

Now that you have this guide, you’re all set for an unforgettable Honolulu vacation featuring a mixture of nature, beaches, history, and culture! Want to add even more magic to your trip? Don’t miss the chance to check out one of our shows in Honolulu. Our performances leverage spectacular visuals, breathtaking acrobatics, and compelling storytelling to leave you with an experience you’ll never forget!