Honolulu, the main city of Hawaii, is located on the island of Oahu. It’s the beating heart of the Hawaiian Islands and serves as a gateway to the natural beauty, culture, and history of the Aloha State. Adjacent to Honolulu is Waikiki, a vibrant district known for its iconic beach, luxury resorts, shopping, dining, and nightlife. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply relaxing on the beach, Honolulu and Waikiki offer a wide range of activities to suit every traveler.
Top Attractions in Honolulu and Waikiki
Waikiki Beach
Waikiki Beach is world-famous for its golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and excellent surf conditions. Located just south of downtown Honolulu, this stretch of beach is lined with high-end resorts, beachfront bars, and restaurants, making it the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing day. You can swim, sunbathe, surf, or rent paddleboards and kayaks. Waikiki Beach is also an ideal spot to watch a Hawaiian sunset or take an early morning stroll along the shoreline.
Diamond Head State Monument
One of Oahu’s most iconic landmarks, Diamond Head is a volcanic crater that offers panoramic views of Honolulu, Waikiki, and the Pacific Ocean. The hike to the summit is moderately challenging but manageable for most fitness levels, and the reward at the top is breathtaking. This 0.8-mile (1.3 km) hike leads you through tunnels and up stairs to the rim of the crater, where you can take in the 360-degree vistas. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring water and sunscreen, as it can get quite hot.
Pearl Harbor National Memorial
Pearl Harbor is one of the most important historical sites in Hawaii, commemorating the attack that brought the United States into World War II. Visitors can take a guided tour of the USS Arizona Memorial, which honors the lives lost during the attack on December 7, 1941. The museum and memorial provide detailed exhibits about the events surrounding the attack and the broader context of the war in the Pacific.
Ala Moana Beach Park
Just west of Waikiki, Ala Moana Beach Park is a great spot to relax if you’re looking for a less crowded beach. The park offers calm waters perfect for swimming and paddleboarding, and the large grassy areas are ideal for picnics or barbecues. You’ll also find tennis courts, walking trails, and concession stands in the park. For shopping enthusiasts, Ala Moana Shopping Center, the largest open-air mall in the world, is located just across the street.
Day Tour Options in Honolulu and Waikiki
Oahu Grand Circle Island Tour
This full-day tour takes you around the entire island of Oahu, stopping at some of the most popular attractions outside of Honolulu. The tour typically includes stops at Diamond Head, the Halona Blowhole, the Byodo-In Temple, the North Shore surfing beaches, and the Dole Plantation, where you can learn about Hawaii’s pineapple industry and enjoy a Dole Whip. You’ll also get to see the lush Windward Coast and scenic viewpoints like the Nu’uanu Pali Lookout.
Waikiki Catamaran Cruise
A catamaran cruise along the shores of Waikiki is a perfect way to experience the beauty of the Pacific Ocean. Several companies offer morning, afternoon, and sunset cruises that allow you to relax on deck, snorkel with tropical fish and sea turtles, or even spot dolphins and whales during the winter months. Many tours offer snacks and drinks on board, making this a great way to unwind and enjoy the scenic coastline.
Pearl Harbor and City Tour
For those who want to combine a visit to Pearl Harbor with a guided tour of Honolulu, this day tour is an excellent choice. The tour includes transportation to Pearl Harbor, where you can visit the USS Arizona Memorial, the Battleship Missouri, and the Pacific Aviation Museum. Afterward, the tour takes you through historic downtown Honolulu, where you’ll see landmarks like Iolani Palace, the King Kamehameha Statue, and the Punchbowl National Cemetery.
Manoa Falls Hike
Just a short drive from Waikiki, Manoa Falls is a stunning 150-foot waterfall nestled in a lush rainforest valley. The trail to the falls is relatively easy, winding through tropical vegetation, bamboo groves, and colorful flora. The hike is about 1.6 miles round trip and is suitable for most fitness levels, though it can be muddy, so proper footwear is recommended. After reaching the falls, you’ll be rewarded with a peaceful setting where you can take in the natural beauty of Hawaii’s rainforests.
Snorkeling at Hanauma Bay
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is one of the best snorkeling spots on Oahu. This crescent-shaped bay, formed within a volcanic crater, is home to a rich array of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and coral reefs. Visitors are required to watch a brief educational video about reef preservation before entering the bay, helping to protect this fragile ecosystem. Snorkeling equipment can be rented on-site, and the bay is open from Wednesday through Sunday.
Polynesian Cultural Center
Located on the North Shore of Oahu, the Polynesian Cultural Center is an immersive experience where you can learn about the diverse cultures of Polynesia. The center features six island villages representing different Polynesian nations, such as Samoa, Fiji, and Tahiti. Visitors can participate in hands-on activities like hula lessons, fire-starting demonstrations, and traditional games. The evening luau and spectacular “Ha: Breath of Life” show are highlights of the experience, offering a full day of cultural exploration.
Fun Things to Do in Honolulu and Waikiki
Surfing Lessons in Waikiki
Waikiki Beach is the birthplace of modern surfing, making it the perfect place for beginners to learn how to catch a wave. Several surf schools along the beach offer lessons with experienced instructors who will teach you the basics of paddling, standing up on the board, and riding the waves. The gentle surf breaks in Waikiki make it an ideal spot for first-timers, but seasoned surfers will also find plenty of opportunities to test their skills.
Shopping on Kalakaua Avenue
Kalakaua Avenue is the main street in Waikiki, known for its upscale shops, boutiques, and luxury brand stores. Here, you can find everything from designer clothing and accessories to Hawaiian souvenirs and jewelry. The Royal Hawaiian Center and the International Market Place are two of the largest shopping centers in the area, offering a mix of high-end retailers and local shops. If you’re looking for authentic Hawaiian products, be sure to stop by stores like Na Hoku or Hawaiian Quilt Collection.
Visit the Honolulu Museum of Art
For art lovers, the Honolulu Museum of Art is a must-see attraction. The museum houses an impressive collection of Asian, Pacific, European, and American art, with more than 50,000 works on display. The museum’s Doris Duke Theatre also hosts a range of film screenings, lectures, and performances. If you’re interested in Hawaii’s cultural heritage, the museum’s collection of Hawaiian art and artifacts offers a deep dive into the islands’ history.
Hawaiian Luau Experience
Attending a traditional Hawaiian luau is a quintessential part of any trip to Hawaii. In Waikiki, several hotels and cultural centers host luaus that include a feast of local dishes like kalua pork, poi, lomi salmon, and haupia (coconut dessert). The evening typically includes live music, hula dancing, and a fire-knife performance. Luaus such as the “Ka Moana Luau” or the “Paradise Cove Luau” offer immersive cultural experiences combined with incredible entertainment.
Hiking the Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail
For those who enjoy hiking, the Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail offers spectacular views of Oahu’s eastern coastline and the Pacific Ocean. The 2-mile round-trip hike is paved and suitable for families, with gentle inclines leading to a viewpoint overlooking the Makapu’u Lighthouse. Along the way, you may spot humpback whales during the winter months or admire the crystal-clear waters below. The trailhead is located about 30 minutes from Waikiki, making it an easy day trip.
Kaka’ako Street Art
For a unique cultural experience, visit the Kaka’ako district, located just west of downtown Honolulu. This once-industrial area has been transformed into a vibrant arts district, with colorful murals and street art adorning nearly every building. The murals are part of the POW! WOW! street art festival, which attracts artists from around the world each year. The area also features trendy cafes, breweries, and galleries, making it a great spot to explore Honolulu’s urban art scene.
Practical Travel Tips
- Transportation: Waikiki and downtown Honolulu are walkable, but renting a car is ideal for exploring the rest of Oahu. Alternatively, TheBus, Oahu’s public transportation system, is a convenient way to get around.
- Weather: Honolulu has a tropical climate, with warm temperatures year-round. The rainy season runs from November to March, but showers are usually brief. Pack light, breathable clothing, sunscreen
