Things To Do
in Honolulu

Honolulu, the capital of Hawaii, is a vibrant coastal city renowned for its stunning beaches, rich history, and diverse culture. Nestled on the island of Oahu, it serves as the gateway to the Hawaiian Islands, offering visitors a unique blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. The iconic Diamond Head crater looms over the city, while the azure waters of Waikiki Beach attract sun-seekers from around the globe.

With a tropical climate and a plethora of outdoor activities, Honolulu is an ideal destination for relaxation and adventure.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discover the Heart of Honolulu
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Pearl Harbor National Memorial to explore the history of World War II. Afterward, head to the nearby USS Arizona Memorial for a guided tour.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch in downtown Honolulu, followed by a visit to Iolani Palace, the only royal palace in the United States. Take a stroll through the nearby King Kamehameha Statue.

evening
:

Dine at a local Hawaiian restaurant such as Helena's Hawaiian Food and enjoy traditional dishes. End your day with a sunset walk along Waikiki Beach.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike up Diamond Head for breathtaking views of the island. Bring water and wear comfortable shoes.

afternoon
:

Visit the Honolulu Museum of Art to appreciate local and international art, followed by lunch at a food truck in the Kaka'ako district.

evening
:

Explore the vibrant nightlife by visiting a Luau, where you can enjoy traditional Hawaiian food and entertainment, or check out local bars for live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Fast Food Meal$10-$15
🍕Pizza Slice$3-$5
🍺Domestic Beer$5-$8
Coffee$4-$6
🏨Mid-range Hotel Night$150-$250

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful beaches and natural scenery
  • Rich cultural experiences and history
  • Pleasant tropical climate year-round
  • Higher cost of living compared to mainland US
  • Tourist crowds during peak seasons
  • Limited public transportation options

Places to Visit in Honolulu

Visit one of these nice places.

Diamond Head State Monument

Capture stunning panoramic views of Honolulu and the Pacific Ocean from the summit.

Waikiki Beach

A perfect spot for sunset photography with iconic views of the beach and surfers.

Punchbowl Crater

Visit this dormant volcano for beautiful landscapes and historical monuments, especially at sunrise.

Culinary Guide

Food in Honolulu

Honolulu's culinary scene is a delightful fusion of flavors influenced by its diverse cultures, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.

Honolulu Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Poke

Freshly cubed raw fish, typically marinated in soy sauce and sesame oil, often served over rice.

Must-Try!

Loco Moco

A hearty dish featuring rice topped with a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and brown gravy.

Haupia

A traditional Hawaiian coconut milk-based dessert, often served in a creamy pudding form.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Aloha Stadium Swap Meet

A bustling marketplace offering a variety of local foods, crafts, and souvenirs, held on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

Kaka'ako Farmers Market

A vibrant farmers market featuring local produce, food trucks, and artisanal goods, typically held on Saturdays.

Climate Guide

Weather

Honolulu has a tropical climate, characterized by warm temperatures year-round, averaging around 70-85°F (21-29°C). The dry season runs from May to October, while the wet season occurs from November to April, featuring occasional rain showers. Trade winds help maintain a pleasant climate, making it a year-round destination.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Aloha Spirit

Embrace the friendly and welcoming nature of the locals; greeting others with 'Aloha' is customary.

Respect for Nature

Preserve the natural environment; avoid disturbing wildlife and littering.

Cultural Sensitivity

Be respectful when visiting sacred sites and always ask for permission before taking photos.

Safety Guide

Safety

Honolulu is generally safe for tourists, but it is important to stay vigilant in crowded areas and avoid displaying valuables. Common sense precautions include not swimming alone at remote beaches and being aware of ocean currents. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 911.

Tipping in Honolulu

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Standard tipping is 15-20% for services such as dining and taxis.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but cash is useful for small purchases and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter (December - February)

Milder temperatures and occasional rain, ideal for whale watching.

Spring (March - May)

Pleasant weather with blooming flowers, great for outdoor activities.

Summer (June - August)

Warm and humid with peak tourist season; expect crowded beaches.

Fall (September - November)

Cooling temperatures and fewer tourists, perfect for a quieter visit.

Nightlife Guide

Honolulu at Night

Honolulu boasts a vibrant nightlife scene with a blend of traditional Hawaiian entertainment and contemporary bars and clubs. Visitors can enjoy live music, dance the hula at luaus, or sip cocktails at beachfront bars. Popular areas like Waikiki and Chinatown offer a variety of options, from laid-back lounges to lively nightclubs, ensuring a fun night out for all tastes.

Hiking in Honolulu

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Koko Crater Trail

A challenging hike that leads you up a steep, old railway track to stunning views of the ocean and surrounding landscape.

Manoa Falls Trail

A moderate hike that takes you through lush rainforest to a picturesque waterfall.

Airports

How to reach Honolulu by plane.

Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL)

Located just a few miles from downtown Honolulu, it serves as the main gateway for international and domestic flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Honolulu is relatively walkable, especially in tourist-friendly areas like Waikiki, where most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and there are pedestrian crossings. However, some areas may require transportation for longer distances or hilly terrains.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Native Hawaiians

Indigenous people of Hawaii, they have a rich culture and history that is integral to the identity of the islands.

Asian Americans

Comprising a significant portion of the population, they bring diverse cultural influences, particularly from Japan, China, and the Philippines.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Surfing

Surfing is a beloved sport in Honolulu, with numerous competitions and local surf culture.

Hiking

The island offers many hiking trails, attracting both locals and tourists who enjoy outdoor activities.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Honolulu can be congested, particularly during rush hours. The city has a public transportation system, TheBus, which is affordable and covers most areas, making it a viable option for travelers. Rideshare services are also widely available.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Honolulu.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegan Options

Many restaurants offer vegan dishes, particularly in the Kaka'ako area.

Gluten-Free

Several eateries provide gluten-free options, especially among health-focused cafes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Honolulu has access to quality healthcare services with several hospitals and clinics available. The major hospitals include The Queen's Medical Center and Kapiolani Medical Center for Women and Children. Health insurance is recommended for visitors to cover any medical needs.

Discover United States

Read more in our United States 2025 Travel Guide.

United States Travel Guide