25+ Things to Do in Honolulu on Your Hawaiian Vacation

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

UPDATED DECEMBER 2024
Honolulu Hawaii

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

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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

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

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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

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

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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

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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

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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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

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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

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

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

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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

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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

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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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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.

So go grab yourself a Oahu attraction pass and save while you sightsee!

Lindsay Eagan
Go City Travel Expert

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Honolulu skyline including the city, Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head
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Honolulu Airport to City Travel Options

Visiting Honolulu feels a little like stepping into a fictionalized version of a tropical island. You know it’s real… and yet, you can’t quite believe it. We’re talking pristine white shores lapped by gin-clear turquoise waters, rainforest-carpeted volcanic peaks, traditional local markets that brim with local handicrafts and Polynesian art, and a warm and welcoming ‘aloha’ culture that invites you to join in with hula performances, lei garland ceremonies and lively luau feasts. Sounds idyllic, right?  And there’s stacks more to do here in Oahu, from the vibrant nightlife of the Waikiki neighborhood to historical hotspots such as Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial. Hike the Diamond Head Crater or opt for the somewhat less strenuous experience of the lush Lyon Arboretum, where the eye-popping diversity of Hawaiian flora is writ large. Culture vulture, history maven, nature enthusiast or beach bum, you’re certain to find something that tickles your pickle while you’re in town. But before all that, let’s take a look at the rather more prosaic matter of getting from Honolulu Airport to downtown… Honolulu International Airport in Brief Located around five miles from downtown, Honolulu International Airport – or Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, to give it its Sunday name – is the main transport hub in Hawaii, with some 20 million passengers passing through its three terminals annually. After several airborne hours of, well, not much to look at, the vision of Hawaii’s volcanic islands rising leviathan-like out of the shimmering Pacific is like a mirage. Depending which side of the plane you’re sat on, you can look forward to a final descent that showcases delicious panoramas of Diamond Head and the gleaming Honolulu skyscrapers. You might also catch a glimpse of the West End of Oahu and Pearl Harbor.  So, without further ado, here’s a quick run-through of the options for traveling from Honolulu Airport into the city. Honolulu Airport to Downtown by Public Transport On-Airport Shuttle System It’s likely you’ll make use of Honolulu Airport’s free shuttle system, which serves all three terminals, ferrying eager new arrivals between gates as well as to the rental car center. It’s called the Wiki Wiki Bus (literally ‘quick quick bus’) and (brace yourselves, trivia fans) was the inspiration for the first ever user-editable ‘wiki’ website, the WikiWikiWeb. The Wiki Wiki Bus operates between 6AM and 10PM daily. Getting from Honolulu Airport to Downtown by Bus Traveling light? The bus is your friend. It’s a bit like taking cabin baggage on a flight though, i.e. if your luggage doesn’t fit on your lap or under the seat in front of you, it ain’t coming on board. In which case, other transport options to downtown Honolulu are available (see below). Packed your bag Marie Kondo style? Welcome aboard! Bus number 20 connects the airport to the heart of the capital in 30 minutes. Be sure to board the Eastbound Route bus for downtown, and for Waikiki Beach, around 50 minutes away. Alternatively, the Westbound service will take you in the direction of Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial. Stops are located in front of the airport on the second floor of terminals 1 and 2, with services departing in both directions every 30 minutes or so. Buy your tickets direct from the driver. It’s $2.75 one-way for adults and $1.25 for kids aged 6-17 years old. Children 5 and under ride free with a paying adult. Getting from Honolulu Airport to Downtown by Rail If you’re reading this in 2031 (or later), you can probably also opt to take the Skyline light railway to downtown. The first section of this epic mass transit system opened in 2023, linking West Oahu to the Aloha Stadium, with airport links both east and west to follow. Honolulu Airport to Downtown by Private Transfer Getting from Honolulu Airport to Downtown by Cab Cabs are readily available outside arrivals at all terminals. It’s only around five miles from the airport to Honolulu city, with prices ranging from $35 to downtown to $45 for Waikiki, excluding tips. Travel time is 20-30 minutes. Look out for the bright yellow shirts of the Taxi Dispatcher team who are there to assist and get you and your luggage safely loaded for the journey into town. Getting from Honolulu Airport to Downtown by Shuttle Private shuttles operated by Roberts Hawaii run out of Honolulu Airport and serve Oahu island resorts. Transfers run the gamut start from shared bus services right up to private town cars. Prices start from $26 one way to Waikiki. Honolulu Airport to Downtown by Rental Vehicle Oahu’s excellent public transport system means a rental car isn’t absolutely necessary. And hey, ride share services like Uber, Holoholo and Lyft provide a cheap and convenient way to get from A to B quickly whenever you need to anyway. But sure, your own wheels can come in handy if you’re looking to strike out and explore the volcanic landscapes and lush beaches of this tropical paradise independently. You’ll find all the usual suspects – Alamo, Avis, Enterprise, Hertz, Sixt and more – at Honolulu Airport’s dedicated rental center, with shuttles to take you there available outside all terminals. Save on attractions, tours and activities in Oahu Save on admission to Oahu attractions with Go City. Check out @GoCity on Instagram for the latest top tips and attraction info.
Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak
Hiker in the mountains of Oahu island, Hawaii.
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Day Trips from Oahu

There’s a reason Oahu is the most popular of Hawaii’s ‘big four’ islands, drawing in nearly twice the number of annual visitors as its next-nearest competitor. Sure Maui and the Big Island have their own allure – volcanic peaks, crashing waterfalls and pure white sands among them – but for sheer variety, Oahu is tough to beat. Our expert guide to the best day trips from Oahu includes household-name historic sites, awe-inspiring hikes, world-class snorkeling and pineapples so sweet you might never want to leave the plantation. No list of this island’s many attractions can ever be truly exhaustive, but our pick of some of the finest Oahu day trips are as good a place to start as any. Dive in! Historic Tour of Pearl Harbor and Honolulu What better way to understand the culture, heritage and psyche of America’s 50th state than on a day tour of its most historically significant sites. This immersive five-hour guided trip takes in the visitor center at Pearl Harbor and includes a moving film at the Pearl Harbor Memorial Theater documenting the 1941 attack that killed over 1,000 sailors and marines, thrusting the US into the Second World War. A US Navy shuttle boat will speed you out to the memorial that marks the resting place of the sunken USS Arizona battleship and you’ll also visit the National Cemetery of the Pacific in the extraordinary Punchbowl Crater on top of an extinct volcano. A drive through downtown Honolulu and its historic Chinatown district includes a stop for selfies at the highly popular 18-foot bronze statue of the legendary King Kamehameha. Makapu'u Lighthouse and Hālona Blowhole An island like Oahu practically begs to be hiked, and among its embarrassment of excellent trails Makapu’u Lighthouse is a perennial highlight. The gleaming white lighthouse with its distinctive red cap is an icon of Oahu’s windward coast, and you’ll see it on postcards and souvenirs – Makapu’u Lighthouse fridge magnet anyone? – in stores across the island. Take a stroll along the paved track and climb to the top of this 46-foot landmark, taking in unparalleled views of the Pacific, Koko Head, Koko Crater, Oahu’s entire southern coastline and perhaps even the odd migrating humpback whale or two. And, while you’re in the vicinity, don’t miss the spectacular Hālona Blowhole, a natural geyser that jets seawater up to 20 feet in the air. Hanauma Bay State Park Fine golden sands, balmy turquoise waters and some of the US’s most spectacular sealife make Hanauma Bay on the island’s southeastern tip a must-visit Oahu attraction. There’s a fee to enter the park and you’re advised to book well in advance, but boy is it worth it. Day trippers can expect to spot all manner of critters at this pristine marine ecosystem in the cone of an extinct volcano. Follow colorful yellow tangs and saddle wrasse as they dart among the reef’s many corals and keep your eyes peeled for eagle rays, green sea turtles and flamboyant spinner dolphins. You can rent snorkeling equipment for the day at the beach and in multiple other outlets nearby. Diamond Head Here’s another bucket-list biggie for all you happy hikers out there! Diamond Head is 760 feet of forested volcanic crater. Hike to its remarkable rim where views across its 3,500-foot diameter reveal panoramic vistas across Honolulu, Waikiki Beach and beyond. Named Diamond Head because bungling British sailors mistook sparkling calcite crystals in the lava rocks for something more precious, the volcano is known locally as Lē‘ahi. The name is said to have been bestowed by Hi'iaka, sister of the fire goddess Pele, thanks to the summit’s resemblance to the forehead of the ‘ahi fish. Which sounds like a Moana sequel just waiting to happen. Return shuttle trips to Diamond Head are included with the Oahu Go City attraction pass. North Shore and Dole Pineapple Plantation Think you’ve tasted pineapple? Think again. This tour of Oahu’s popular North Shore takes in photo stops at some of the island’s top beaches, offers another chance to visit our old pal King Kamehameha and gives you the opportunity to sample some of Hawaii’s finest homegrown coffee, shaved ice and macadamia nuts. But the main event on any North Shore day trip is always going to be the world-famous pineapple plantation founded by James Dole back in 1899. You’ll discover how the pineapples are planted and harvested, sample their oh-so-sweet flesh and even get one to take home with you. Commandeer a Catamaran! Boating day trips off Oahu’s Insta-perfect coastline are a great way to see a bit more of the island and maybe even spot the occasional dolphin, humpback whale or flying fish! Options range from short catamaran trips like this one to bells-and-whistles experiences aboard luxury yachts, with stops for snorkeling and lunch on deck. Make like a celeb and don your most dazzlingly white swimwear and massive morning-after sunglasses for holiday snaps that’ll be the talk of all your z-list pals back home. Waimea Valley Do you like flowers? Of course you do! Unless of course you’re allergic. In which case, you can skip this section and – achoo! – move on to the next one. Waimea Valley is a botanist’s technicolor dream come true; a sprawling 1,875-acre oasis comprised of botanical gardens, archaeological sites and a whopping great waterfall. Follow the paved trails through 35 themed gardens, marveling at more than 5,000 different tropical plant species, from delicate yellow hibiscus to towering cacti. Then cool off with a dip beneath the glorious Waimea Falls, the crowning glory of this huge natural park. More Day Trips from Oahu Finally, if you absolutely must leave this beautiful island, there are oodles of options for day trips from Oahu to neighboring Maui, Kauai and Big Island. Hit up Big Island for kayaking and swimming on the peaceful Umauma River and trips to the awesome Volcanoes National Park and towering Rainbow Falls. Maui is the place for sunset dinners accompanied by traditional music and fire dancers. Or brave the Hanapepe Swinging Bridge and go ziplining over the sugar plantations on Kauai. Save on activities and attractions in Oahu Save on admission to Oahu attractions with Go City. Check out @GoCity on Instagram for the latest top tips and attraction info.
Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak

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