Honolulu Hawaii

25+ Things to Do in Honolulu on Your Hawaiian Vacation

Explore the best of Oahu with out must-do list!
By Lindsay Eagan

With endless experiences to discover, Honolulu is our pick for an incredible Hawaiian vaycay!

As the capital of Hawaii, Honolulu is always alive with action. There are lots of fun things to do in Honolulu, including soaking up the sun on the amazing beaches of Oahu island, taking a stroll through a scenic park, going on an amazing hike, or learning about Hawaii's unique history.

As a first-time traveler, your only concern should be experiencing the diversity of Honolulu's attractions, which include history, entertainment, sightseeing, ethnic cuisine, and unique culture.

If you’re looking for things to do in and around Honolulu during your trip to Oahu, check out our list of the best local activities and attractions, including...

  • Makani Catamaran Sail
  • Honolulu Museum of Art
  • Pearl Harbor Historic Sites
  • Diamond Head Hike
  • Waikiki Beach
  • Hanauma Bay Snorkeling
  • And more!

Makani Catamaran Sails

Image of Vehicle, Yacht, Boat, Sailboat, City, Nature, Outdoors, Sea, Water, Scenery, Land, Person,

Sail out onto the open ocean for a delightful evening experience – a sunset sail with accompanying island-style dinner and a complimentary drink. It’s a relaxing activity that really brings home those vacation vibes. Keep an eye out for sea life while on the sail as well! You can also opt for a daytime sail if you’re looking for a bit of a tan. That cruise in particular has some success with dolphin, sea bird, and whale sightings, too.

All of Oahu in One Day Tour

Image of Water, Waterfront, Harbor, Pier, Nature, Outdoors, Sea, Marina, Building, Cityscape, Urban, Shoreline, Coast, Boat, Vehicle,

Explore this amazing island on a comprehensive, 120-mile tour of the major sites and landmarks. You’ll see everything from the stunning cliffs of Makapu'u to the gorgeous Waimea Bay. Keep your phones or cameras charged to fully take advantage of the wonderful photo opportunities you'll get on this trek. It’s great all-day excursion for those looking to really get a feel for the whole Oahu experience. Keep in mind that the entire excursion will take about 8 hours. Getting In: All of Oahu in One Day Tours are included with the Go Oahu® Card.

Iolani Palace

Image of Building, City, Tree, Urban, Car,

Did you know Hawaii is the only U.S. state to have had its own monarchy? Learn all about Hawaii’s history and the history of its royal families at Iolani Palace, home to its last two Hawaiian monarchs. Known for its ornate décor and classic home furnishings, a visit to Iolani Palace is a trip to another time.

This carefully restored building serves as a museum that focuses on the life and times of these last Hawaiian Kingdom rulers, with a particular emphasis on nineteenth-century art & architecture. You can visit indoor and outdoor spaces, so be sure to explore the entire Palace and grounds before you leave. Iolani Palace also often hosts free events, so be sure to consult local event calendars before your visit.

Fun fact: Iolani Palace had electricity years before the White House did.

Honolulu Museum of Art

Image of Floor, Flooring, Wood, Indoors, Museum, Interior Design, Hardwood, Bench, Furniture, Art,

The Honolulu Museum of Art is a modestly sized fine art museum is a great destination for culture lovers in Hawaii. Thirty galleries contain extensive collections, including their famed body of Asian art, one of the top 10 in the US. These works of art will immerse visitors in global cultures from all across history. Be sure to spend some time browsing their fine collection of Hawaiian painting and decorative arts, too --- a must for visitors to the islands.

Lyon Arboretum

Image of Land, Nature, Outdoors, Plant, Vegetation, Tree, Woodland, Rainforest, Scenery, Jungle, Landscape,

This lush tropical rainforest is home to a wide variety of plant life native to the Hawaiian Islands. Opened as a botanical garden in the 1970s, the Lyon Arboretum has become a go-to destination for scientists as a leader in conservation biology, Hawaiian ethnobotony, and horticulture. Pay a visit and take some time to explore the Arboretum's various themed gardens and its 7+ miles of hiking trails that take you around the property. A visit here is a peaceful respite from bustling Honolulu and a great site for nature photography.

Bishop Museum

Image of Indoors, Museum, Person, Vehicle, Watercraft, Boat, Sailboat,

One of the best natural history museums in the region, the Bishop Museum is a great family destination in Oahu. The Bishop Museum provides a more scientific survey of Hawaii's history, from its Polynesian culture to native plant and animal life to an "active" volcano exhibit and more. This fascinating museum features collections across five major buildings, with everything from seashells and fish specimens to an “active” volcano in the Science Adventure Center. Be sure to check out their planetarium programs, too.

Queen Emma Summer Palace

Image of Lady, Person, Adult, Female, Woman, Male, Man, Art, Painting, Bride,

The Queen Emma Summer Palace is a nineteenth-century dwelling was the summer home of Queen Emma and her husband King Kamehameha IV. A getaway from the noise and heat of Honolulu, this peaceful home was also a destination for famed royal visitors like the prestigious Duke of Edinburgh. A visit here will truly bring you back in time.

Ala Moana Beach Park

Image of Landscape, Nature, Outdoors, Scenery, Panoramic, Summer, Vegetation, Tropical, Tree,

Located between Waikiki and downtown Honolulu, Ala Moana Beach Park is a picturesque tourist attraction located on the coast of the island. It boasts a beautiful jogging trail, beach, and nearby shopping center. Before the opening of the Mall of America, the Ala Moana Shopping Center was the largest mall in the States. Today, it is still the largest open-air shopping center in the world.

Manoa Falls

Image of Jungle, Land, Nature, Outdoors, Rainforest, Tree, Vegetation, Woodland, Scenery, Grove, Path, Water, Green, Landscape, Creek, Stream, Trail,

Those unafraid to do a little walking should do the hour-long hike up to Manoa Falls. Put on your hiking shoes and journey through the peaceful rainforest, which was one of the filming locations for the television series LOST. Don’t forget your camera- there are get stunning photograph opportunities at the end of this hike. Keep in mind that this is a very popular hike during tourist season, so you may encounter crowds on the trail.

Tip: Manoa Falls Trail is free to hike, but you will need to pay for parking at the mouth of the trail.

Honolulu Zoo

Image of Animal, Mammal, Wildlife, Zebra, Vegetation, Field, Grassland, Nature, Outdoors, Tree, Giraffe,

This charming zoo, located in Kapiolani Park, is popular among locals and visitors alike. Featuring a wide variety of animals as well as extensive zoo gardens, there’s flora and fauna for all at this top regional zoo. Be sure to check out their special events calendar before visiting, too!

Waikiki Aquarium

Image of Aquatic, Water, Animal, Aquarium, Fish, Sea Life, Nature, Outdoors, Reef, Sea,

With a wide variety of exhibits and themed areas, the Waikiki Aquarium is a great destination for animal lovers. Some of their featured exhibits include Green Sea Turtles, Ocean Drifters, Hunters on the Reef, and more. This is another attraction with excellent special events, too, especially in the summer.

Nearby Attractions in Waikiki/Diamond Head Diamond Head Hike

Image of Nature, Outdoors, Sea, Water, Shoreline, Coast, Land, Aerial View,

It’s officially called Mt. Leahi, but is better known as Diamond Head. This mountain is one of the most famous volcanic crater in the world. At the top of the 760-foot summit, you’ll behold breath-taking panoramic views of Waikiki and the rest of the South Shore. You won’t want to leave your camera at home for this one!

Diamond Head is only a short drive from Waikiki, but the hike up the mountain is considered moderately difficult for hikers not in tip top shape. Be assured, however, that the Diamond Head Hike is well worth it! Start out as early in the morning as possible, and bring water, sunscreen, and sneakers for this half-hour climb. Truly among the most beautiful and best of Oahu sights.

KCC Farmers’ Market

Image of Food, Fruit, Produce, Pineapple, Adult, Female, Person, Woman, Banana,

Hawaii’s diverse agricultural scene comes to life every Saturday at the KCC Farmer’s Market. Shop the endless displays of fruits, vegetables, flowers, seafood, baked goods, Hawaiian shave ice, and more. Located on the slopes of Diamond Head, this outdoor market offers some of Honolulu’s greatest local delicacies.

Rainforest, Waterfalls, and Movie Sites Hike

Image of Vegetation, Land, Nature, Outdoors, Rainforest, Tree, Woodland, Water, Jungle, Scenery, Waterfall,

Embark on a sightseeing adventure through this two-mile self-guided tour. You’ll see everything from the stunning 150-foot waterfall to verdant tropical forest. Don’t miss out on the ancient Hawaiian dwelling you’ll see along the way. Plus, you can see locations that were used in the filming of The Hunger Games franchise.

Moped & Bike Rentals

Image of Adult, Male, Man, Person, Female, Woman, Bicycle, Vehicle, Cycling, Helmet,

Stop by Hawaiian Style Rentals and pick up a moped or bike. Then, hop on and set off on an adventure of your own. Ride anywhere you please, on your own itinerary. Stop at attractions you’re interested in, or cruise by those you aren’t. You can choose from a 4-hour moped rental or a 24-hour bike rental.

Waikiki Beach Gear Rentals

Image of Nature, Outdoors, Water, Person, Swimming, Water Sports, Underwater, Snorkeling, Adult, Female, Woman, Animal, Fish, Sea Life,

Waikiki Beach is one of the most popular beach on Oahu and is really a fun thing to do for the whole family. The two mile stretch of sand is a popular tourist destination due to its convenient location and beautiful scenery. It’s an ideal place to swim, snorkel, canoe, surf, or just soak up the sun on the sand. If you're interested in seeing the colorful sea life up close, you may want to snag some snorkeling gear to explore beneath the waves.

Waikele Outlet Mall Shopping Shuttle

Image of Person, Shopping, Face, Happy, Head, Smile, Accessories, Sunglasses, Adult, Female, Woman,

If you’re looking to get your shop on during your Oahu vacation, look no further than the Waikele Outlet Mall. Wander through over 50 top brand name stores at this expansive outlet mall and search for real bargains. It’s a great way to take a break from the beach, or to make the most of a rainy day.

Shangri-La Center For Islamic Arts & Cultures

Once the home of American heiress Doris Duke, today Shangri-La is a marvelous museum for Islamic arts and cultures. They offer guided tours and cultural programs, as well as residencies for scholars and artists. Tickets can be hard to come by – so reserve early!

Nearby Attractions in Leeward/Pearl HarborUSS Bowfin Submarine

Image of Vehicle, Yacht, Boat,

One of the few combat submarines that survives from World War II, the USS Bowfin Submarine is a delightful historic attraction that WWII buffs will absolutely love. Also known as the “Pearl Harbor Avenger,” this ship sank 44 enemy vessels! Take a self-guided audio tour of the ship and museum for the full experience.

Battleship Missouri

Image of Adult, Male, Man, Person, Boat, Vehicle, Water, Waterfront, Military, Ship,

The Battleship Missouri, or Mighty Mo, is a ship with an impressive history. Spanning three wars, her tour of duty encompassed the surrender of the Japanese Empire in 1944 and the Gulf War before being decommissioned in 1992. Today, it operates as a floating museum right outside Honolulu. Choose from three different self-guided tour routes.

USS Arizona Memorial Narrated Tour

Image of Land, Nature, Outdoors, Sea, Water, Shoreline, Coast,

A top landmark in the U.S. according to a recent TripAdvisor poll, the USS Arizona Memorial is a must-visit attraction in Oahu. Take the award-winning audio tour that tells the story of the lives lost in Pearl Harbor and across the world on December 7, 1941. A must for fans of military history.

Pacific Aviation Museum

Image of Boy, Child, Male, Person, Aircraft, Airplane, Vehicle, Warplane,

Learn all about the history of American aviation from World War II to the present day and the fantastic Pacific Aviation Museum. Explore their extensive collection of historic aircraft, featuring everything from bombers and fighter planes to helicopters. Don’t miss the short documentary at the entrance, which provides a useful overview of the attraction and its offerings.

Nearby Attractions in WindwardHanauma Bay Snorkel

Image of Nature, Outdoors, Water, Underwater, Snorkeling, Person, Swimming, Water Sports, Adult, Male, Man,

Snorkeling is a delightful way to explore the beautiful coral reefs in Hanauma Bay. Within the bay's pristine and clear waters, visitors can swim through a stunning coral reef that is home to a myriad of marine life from tropical fish and sea turtles to octopuses.

You'll get a silicone-tempered mask, "J"-type snorkels, and endurance vinyl acetate fins, plus a defogger for your masks.

Sea Life Park Hawaii

Image of Animal, Dolphin, Mammal, Sea Life, Nature, Outdoors, Sea, Water, Fish, Shark, Scenery,

The wonderful Sea Life Park Hawaii provides countless opportunities to get up close and personal with a wide variety of creatures. From the dozens of reef species on display in a 300,000-gallon tank to acrobatic shows put on by dolphins and sea lions, there are so many amazing animal encounters to enjoy.

Makapu’u Lighthouse Hike

Image of Cliff, Nature, Outdoors, Promontory, Water, Scenery, Path, Newfoundland, Slope, Sea, Landscape, Trail,

A 2-mile round trip hike, the Makapu’u Point Trail (and the Makapu’u Lighthouse located at its summit) is a must-see natural attraction in Oahu. Marvel at the amazing views of Oahu’s southeastern coastline and keep an eye out for seabirds. The historic lighthouse is an impressive sight in itself, with its beautiful red paint and hyper-radiant lens.

Koko Head District Park

Image of Nature, Outdoors, Sea, Water, Shoreline, Coast, Bay,

This region actually features a variety of things to do, from challenging hikes to picnic spots. Active visitors will especially enjoy the difficult Koko Crater Trail, and nature lovers won’t want to skip the stunning Koko Crater Botanical Garden.

Remember to Save on Attraction Admission

Oahu is usually the first stop for tourists new to the islands. There’s certainly no scarcity of things to do in Honolulu and the rest of the majestic island nicknamed “The Gathering Place.” These are our top recommendations for things to do in Honolulu and the surrounding areas during your trip to Oahu.

Admission to many of these top Oahu attractions and activities and more are included on the Go Oahu and you will save on combined admission vs. paying at the gate. We hope you consider adding a few of these fun options to your Oahu vacation plans.

Planning to spend some time on other parts of the island? Then check out our post on things to do on the North Shore of Oahu for more fun ideas.

Continue reading

USS Arizona
Blog

Tips for Visiting the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor

The USS Arizona Memorial stands above the waters of Pearl Harbor. It is an enduring tribute to the servicemen who lost their lives aboard the battleship in the Japanese surprise attack on December 7, 1941. The USS Arizona Memorial is one of the most visited destinations in Hawaii and is a must-see during your vacation to Oahu and Pearl Harbor. Read on for our tips for visiting, other nearby attractions, and much more. Tips for Visiting the USS Arizona   Parking at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center is free. Lots are located in front of the main entrance.   1,300 free walk-in tickets are issued each day to visitors on a first-come, first-served basis, beginning at 7:00 am. You can reserve your free tickets online up to two months in advance at recreation.gov.   The Go Oahu Card gets you a headset for the audio tour at no charge. Present your card at the audio kiosk near the ticket counter after you pick up your tickets, but before entering the theater.   The Go Oahu Card also includes admission to the other Pearl Harbor Historic Sites, including Battleship Missouri, USS Bowfin Submarine Museum, and the Pacific Aviation Museum.   Allow yourself 3 hours to complete the narrative tour. More tips for visiting the USS Arizona Memorial For security reasons, no bags of any kind are allowed on any of the memorials, including purses, backpacks, camera bags, etc. Lockers are available for a small fee to store bags and other items.   Strollers are not allowed in the theater, on the shuttle boat, or on the USS Arizona Memorial.   The theater, Navy shuttle boat, and memorial are wheelchair accessible.   Only clear bottled water is allowed in the theater, on the shuttle boat, and at the memorial. No other food or beverage is permitted   Military members in uniform are required to dress at Class B or above, and battle attire is not permitted at the USS Arizona Memorial, though it is allowed at the Visitor Center and other sites around Ford Island.   The audio tour is available in nine languages: English, Japanese, Chinese, Korean, French, Russian, Italian, German or Spanish. When is the best time to visit the USS Arizona? The Visitor Center opens at 7:00 am daily, and programs for the USS Arizona Memorial run every 15 minutes, beginning at 7:30 am. If you haven’t reserved your tickets in advance, you should get to the Visitor Center as close to 7:00 am as possible or risk not being able to obtain tickets for that day. If you'd like, you can reserve your tickets online, up to two months in advance. This will ensure you get to visit the Memorial on your trip to Hawaii. Reserve your tickets for late morning or mid-afternoon to avoid the biggest crowds. The last program begins at 3:00 pm. June through August and the winter holidays are the busiest time of year in Honolulu. Go off-season if you want to avoid the crowds. The escorted portion of the USS Arizona Memorial lasts about an hour and 15 minutes. It begins with a brief introduction outside Pearl Harbor Memorial Theater, followed by a film presentation. The award-winning documentary provides an in-depth history of the days leading up to the attack on Pearl Harbor, WWII, and the history of the USS Arizona. Visitors exit the theater through a back door that leads directly to a Navy shuttle boat. You will immediately board for the short excursion to the memorial itself. After docking at the memorial, you’ll have some time to explore before heading back to the Visitor Center. There, you can follow a guided audio tour that includes information about exhibit galleries and waterfront interpretive displays. The theater experience The 23-minute historical film features actual footage from the attacks on Pearl Harbor backed by a dramatic, emotional, and informational narration. You'll hear testimonies and statements from survivors; it's an extremely touching story. Even the most stoic audience members will find themselves moved by this well-made remembrance of the tragic events of December 7, 1941 - the day the United States officially entered World War II. Navy Shuttle Boat After the film, you'll board a Navy Shuttle boat to take you to the memorial site, crewed by Navy servicemen and women. Make sure to remain seated when on board and don your headphones so you can continue to listen to the informative tour guide. The narrator will point out landmarks, and provide a backstory as you take the quick ride over. USS Arizona Memorial The memorial building does not actually rest on top of the ship itself. Instead, it hovers just above the broken remains of the USS Arizona so as not to do any more damage to the massive ship below. Surrounding the memorial, parts of the broken vessel protrude from the water or lurk below the surface. In stark contrast to the dark ribs of the ship, colorful reef fish dart around parts of the massive skeleton. Its fractured form creates an artificial reef for the native ocean wildlife. The perpetually leaking oil on the water’s surface doesn't seem to bother the fish, and environmental groups monitor the continual spillage for negative impact. However, its presence is a reminder of the vast damage that was done and the chaos that followed. The memorial’s main area serves as an open Assembly Room, where visitors can reflect and ponder the USS Arizona’s remains below. The Shrine Room at the rear features a wall listing the names of each of the 1,177 Navy sailors and Marines who went down with the ship. The wall also honors survivors of the USS Arizona who elected to be interred below with their former shipmates after their deaths. Exhibits, Galleries, and Monuments Back on land, the audio tour takes you past the waterfront memorials along the Walk of Remembrance, and two small museums, "The Road to War" and "Attack,". The exhibitions feature pieces that tell the story of what led up to the fateful event, stories, and testimonies. This second half of the narrated tour takes a little over an hour. Actress Jamie Lee Curtis, daughter of Pacific War veteran actor Tony Curtis, guides you through the exhibit galleries and memorial plaques. The audio tour also includes touching guest narration by Pearl Harbor survivors and historian Daniel Martinez. Despite the horrific events, the memorial stands as an emblem of peace and remembrance, rather than a tribute to hatred or violence. What attractions are near the USS Arizona? The World War II Valor in the Pacific Park houses several other memorials. Here are a few nearby we suggest you add to your itinerary. USS Bowfin Submarine The USS Bowfin Submarine is another important memorial from World War II located right next to the USS Arizona. This submarine is one of only 15 surviving U.S. Combat vessels. With a guided audio tour, you can learn the history of the ship and its attacks on enemy warships.  Getting in:  USS Bowfin Submarine is separately ticketed.  USS Missouri Battleship Ride a shuttle bus to the Ford Island and the USS Missouri battleship, or “Mighty Mo,” looming near the USS Arizona Memorial. This battleship is a sister to the USS Arizona, and the site of Japan’s official surrender to the United States in 1945, marking the end of World War II. The USS Missouri Memorial is open to the public for self-guided and audio tours.  Getting in: USS Missouri Battleship tickets are included on Go City Oahu passes. Pacific Aviation Museum The shuttle also stops at the Pacific Aviation Museum, which includes the Ford Island Control Tower and two military hangars housing aircraft and other memorabilia, mostly related to the attack on Pearl Harbor.  Getting in: Pacific Aviation Museum tickets are included on Go City Oahu passes. Where is there to eat near the USS Arizona?   The Visitor Center has a snack shop and a fast food stand serving hot dogs and nachos.   Schooner’s restaurant is about 100 yards from the Visitor Center, near the bridge to Ford Island. It's open from 11am to 8pm, and provides a regular menu, a kids menu, beverages including beers and cocktails, and a lunch buffet.   Military members will feel at home in paradise at Sam Choy’s Island Style Seafood Grille on the Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickman. Fantastic views, great food, cold brews, and true Hawaiian aloha ambiance provide the perfect backdrop to gather for fighter pilots, officers, green berets, and enlisted men and women. Can't choose? No need, see it all with Go City® Discover our full line-up of Oahu attractions including the Polynesian Cultural Center, Diamond Head Hawaii, Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, and more. 🤩 >> If you want to see and do as much as you can, our All-Inclusive Pass is for you. 😎 >> If you want to pick just a few attractions and visit at your own pace, our Explorer Pass is the perfect option.
Lindsay Eagan
Kailua Kayak Rental, Oahu
Blog

Oahu Labor Day Weekend - 10+ Fun Things to Do in September

If you’re lucky enough to spend Labor Day and the last days of summer in the tropical paradise of Oahu (where, trust us, summer will continue for a while after you’ve left), then its a good idea to have a list of potential activities to enjoy. You won't be short of things to do this Labor Day in Oahu. There are lots of activities and local attractions that the whole family will enjoy. If you’re looking for Oahu Labor Day Weekend ideas, check out some of these local activities and fun things do in Oahu in September, including... Hanauma Bay Snorkel Makani Catamaran Sail Hawaiian Style Rentals: Moped and Bike Rental Diamond Head Hike And more! Save on Attraction Admission Regular admission to a number of these Oahu attractions are included on the Go Oahu® pass. Choose as you go from dozens of top attractions and save up to 55% on combined admission vs paying at the gate. See all available passes, attractions & prices – Learn more. Please note, the special events taking place at these attractions may be separately ticketed and not included on the Go Oahu pass. Relax Aboard a Dinner Cruise Though Hawaii is known for its water sports, like surfing, if they're not for you, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the water. You can definitely enjoy the ocean even if you don’t want to swim or snorkel in it – just hop aboard a Makani Catamaran for the best of the tropical ocean without the hassle of equipment. Experience one of the most quintessential Hawaiian vacation activities and set sail on the Pacific Ocean for an island-style dinner with a complimentary drink and an unforgettable view of the Hawaiian sunset. Getting In: Makani Dinner Cruise tickets are included on 3, 5, and 7-Day Go Oahu pass. Explore Hawaiian Culture What better way to have an authentic Hawaiian experience than with a visit to one the most genuine places on the entire island? Pay a visit to the Polynesian Cultural Center, where you can lose yourself in the world of old Oahu with visits to seven distinct ethnic areas, multiple demonstrations, and beautiful dance performances. It's a celebration of the Polynesian culture and a great way to learn about the history and culture of Hawaii. Getting In: Polynesian Cultural Center tickets are included on the Go Oahu pass. Go Snorkeling in Hanauma Bay You’re traveling to Oahu to make the best of those last summer days, so why not immerse yourself (literally) in the tropical waters of Hawaii? Enjoy a snorkeling expedition and see some of the most marvelous undersea creatures in the world. It's the quintessential summer activity to see you through the cooler autumn months. Getting In: Hanauma Bay Snorkel rentals are included on the Go Oahu pass. Ride a Bike or Moped Get out and be active with a nice vigorous bike ride. (Or, be as leisurely as you want!) Explore scenic Waikiki, or head out to destinations beyond with your 24-hour rental. Another option includes a fun moped rental, for some more exciting explorations. You’ll get a map with your rental, too, so it couldn’t be easier to plan out a trail. It's a fun and easy way to see as much of the island as possible. Getting In: Hawaiian Style rentals are included on the Go Oahu pass. Embark on a Scenic Hike Image credit: Dakuna.com Oahu is at its most beautiful in the wild parts outside of Honolulu and Waikiki, so be sure to spend some time out exploring nature. Take a hike up the historic Makapuu Lighthouse, or out to the impressive Diamond Head volcano. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a camera! Getting In: Makapuu Lighthouse Hike tickets and Diamond Head Hike tickets are included with the Go Oahu pass. First Friday Art Walk If you're in search of that perfect unique souvenir, then a visit to the monthly First Friday Art Walk in Honolulu's Chinatown is a great destination. This month, they're boasting a special Labor Day theme. This event is filled with art and craftwork from dozens of local vendors looking to share their love of art with the world. You'll also find that local businesses get in on the fun, too, offering free food and drink samples to passersby. It's an incredibly festive atmosphere overall, and is fun for the whole family. Getting In: Admission to the First Friday Art Walk is free. Royal Court Investiture & Opening Ceremony It's hard to find a tradition more authentically Hawaiian than this one, or one that is more beloved by locals. The Aloha Festivals Royal Court will be officially introduced, and past monarchs honored through song and dance. This event actually kicks off the larger Aloha Festival event series, taking place throughout the month. For more information about Aloha Week, check out our full write-up of this unique Hawaiian tradition. Getting In: Admission to the Royal Court Investiture is free. Okinawan Festival Image credit: Okinawan Festival. Now in its 37th year, the Okinawan Festival is the largest cultural festival in all of Hawaii. Enjoy tons of great ethnic food, live entertainment including taiko drums and hula dancers, artist and artisan displays, and great educational activities for the kids. It’s an ideal family event for those looking for a little bit of authentic Oahu. Getting In: Admission to the Okinawan Festival is free. Waikiki Roughwater Swim Image credit: Waikiki Roughwater Swim Facebook page. Not for the faint of heart, this event brings swimmers from all over the world to challenge the rough waters of Waikiki on a 2. 4 mile course. Watch swimmers traverse the seas from the Waikiki Aquarium to Hilton Hawaiian Village and marvel at their bravery. Getting In: Admission to the Waikiki Roughwater Swim is free for spectators. 10th Annual Hawaii Rice Festival Image credit: Paina Cafe. Celebrate one of Hawaii’s most famous grains this Labor Day weekend with a one-of-a-kind festival. Enjoy cooking and eating competitions, musical performances and other live entertainment, and great kids activities. Taste rice from around the world and learn all about the history of this famous plant. Getting In: Admission to the Hawaii Rice Festival is free. 67th Annual Waikiki Hoolaulea This massive block party is the place to be this September for a full taste of Hawaiian food, drink, and culture. Crowds will come from all across the islands to Kalakaua Avenue to enjoy lei-making classes, hula performances, Hawaiian music, and plenty of food and drink. It's a great family attraction, too! Getting In: Admission to the 67th Annual Waikiki Hoolaulea is free. Kūhiō Beach Hula Show This authentic hula show is a great way to get a true taste of Hawaiian culture for free. Come to Kūhiō Beach to see the full show, including an opening torch-lighting ceremony and the blowing of a conch shell, plus plenty of expect indigenous dances. This show takes place on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays in season. Getting In: Admission to the Kūhiō Beach Hula Show is free. Enjoy an Informative Tour If you’ve never been to Oahu before, or if your interests lie on the cultural side, why not take a comprehensive tour of Honolulu to learn more about the city and its people? You’ll also cover major historical sites like Pearl Harbor, so it’s well worth your time. Getting In: Pearl Harbor Historical-City Tour tickets are included on the Go Oahu pass. Remember to Save on Attraction Admission There you go - plenty of fun ideas for things to do in Oahu in September to help you plan your Labor Day weekend itinerary. Remember, some of these great attraction options are included on the Go Oahu pass, where you can save up to 55% on combined admission vs paying at the gate. Please note, the Labor Day weekend events taking place at some of these attractions may be separately ticketed and not included with the Go Oahu pass. We hope you consider visiting some of these attractions to help round out your summer vacation in style.
Katie Sagal

Have a 5% discount, on us!

Sign up to our newsletter and receive exclusive discounts, trip inspiration and attraction updates straight to your inbox.

    Thick check Icon