7+ Things to Do in Honolulu on Your Hawaiian Vacation

Sail out onto the open ocean for a delightful evening experience – a sunset sail on a Makani Catamaran 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, seabird, and whale sightings, too.

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.

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 ethnobotany, 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.

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.

The Queen Emma Summer Palace is a nineteenth-century dwelling that 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.

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 United States. Today, it is still the largest open-air shopping center in the world.

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 some 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.

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.

It’s officially called Mt. Leahi, but is better known as Diamond Head. This mountain is one of the most famous volcanic craters in the world. At the top of the 760-foot summit, you’ll behold breathtaking 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.

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.

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.