Honolulu, the capital of Hawaii, offers a wealth of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Here are 31 things to do in Honolulu for a memorable holiday:
- Visit Pearl Harbor: Pay your respects at the USS Arizona Memorial and learn about the events of December 7, 1941, at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center.
- Relax on Waikiki Beach: Enjoy the sun, sand, and surf at one of the most famous beaches in the world, Waikiki Beach.
- Hike Diamond Head: Trek to the top of Diamond Head Crater for panoramic views of Honolulu and the surrounding coastline.
- Explore Hanauma Bay: Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve and marvel at the colorful marine life.
- Visit Iolani Palace: Discover the history of Hawaii’s monarchy with a tour of the only royal palace in the United States.
- Take a Sunset Cruise: Enjoy a romantic sunset cruise along the coast of Honolulu, complete with dinner and live entertainment.
- Learn to Surf: Take a surf lesson in Waikiki and experience the thrill of riding the waves.
- Visit the Honolulu Museum of Art: Explore a vast collection of Asian, Pacific, and Western art at the Honolulu Museum of Art.
- Go Shopping on Kalakaua Avenue: Shop for souvenirs, clothing, and gifts at the boutiques and shops along Kalakaua Avenue in Waikiki.
- Explore Chinatown: Wander through Honolulu’s vibrant Chinatown district and sample authentic Chinese and Hawaiian cuisine.
- Take a Helicopter Tour: See Honolulu from above with a thrilling helicopter tour that offers bird’s-eye views of Diamond Head, Waikiki Beach, and more.
- Visit the Bishop Museum: Learn about Hawaiian culture, history, and natural history at the Bishop Museum, home to one of the largest collections of Pacific artifacts in the world.
- Go Snorkeling at Sharks Cove: Discover an underwater wonderland at Sharks Cove on the North Shore, one of Oahu’s best snorkeling spots.
- Explore the Waikiki Aquarium: Marvel at colorful tropical fish, sharks, and coral reefs at the Waikiki Aquarium.
- Take a Day Trip to the North Shore: Visit the legendary surf spots of the North Shore, such as Pipeline, Sunset Beach, and Waimea Bay.
- Enjoy a Luau: Experience Hawaiian culture with a traditional luau featuring hula dancing, live music, and a feast of local cuisine.
- Visit the Dole Plantation: Take a tour of the Dole Plantation and learn about Hawaii’s pineapple industry. Don’t miss the chance to try a refreshing Dole Whip.
- Go Whale Watching: Take a whale-watching cruise during the winter months to see humpback whales in their natural habitat.
- Hike Manoa Falls Trail: Trek through lush rainforest to reach the picturesque Manoa Falls, a stunning 150-foot waterfall.
- Visit the Hawaii State Capitol: Explore the architectural beauty of the Hawaii State Capitol building and its surrounding grounds.
- Take a Sunset Picnic at Magic Island: Enjoy a romantic sunset picnic at Magic Island, a scenic park located near Ala Moana Beach Park.
- Go Parasailing: Soar above the turquoise waters of Waikiki Beach on a thrilling parasailing adventure.
- Explore the Honolulu Zoo: Spend a day at the Honolulu Zoo and see exotic animals from around the world.
- Visit the Waikiki Aquarium: Discover Hawaii’s diverse marine life at the Waikiki Aquarium, home to more than 3,500 species of fish and other aquatic creatures.
- Take a Stand-Up Paddleboard Lesson: Try stand-up paddleboarding in the calm waters of Waikiki Bay with a beginner’s lesson.
- Go Kayaking: Explore the coastline of Oahu by kayak and discover hidden coves, sea caves, and secluded beaches.
- Take a Sunset Catamaran Cruise: Relax aboard a catamaran as you sail along the coast of Honolulu and watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean.
- Visit the Ala Moana Center: Shop at one of the largest open-air shopping centers in the world, Ala Moana Center, which offers a wide range of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.
- Explore the Lyon Arboretum: Wander through the lush botanical gardens of the Lyon Arboretum and discover a diverse collection of tropical plants and flowers.
- Go Ziplining: Get your adrenaline pumping with a ziplining adventure through the lush rainforest canopy of Oahu.
- Relax and Unwind: Take some time to simply relax and enjoy the laid-back island vibe of Honolulu. Whether it’s lounging on the beach, sipping cocktails at a beachfront bar, or indulging in a spa treatment, be sure to take time for yourself during your holiday.