Thrilled when you glance out of the plane window and spot the downtown Honolulu skyscraper skyline for the first time? About 60% of Hawaii’s population resides in the Honolulu metro area!
That’s why there’s a ton of stuff to do in Honolulu! With limited vacation time, you’ve got to be picky and choose the absolute best things to do and see.
If it’s your first time in Hawaii, head to the gorgeous beaches in Waikiki and snorkel at Hanauma Bay to witness the incredible marine life underwater!
Planning a romantic honeymoon in Hawaii? Consider a dreamy sunset cruise or go all out with a romantic beachfront fine dining experience!
Are you a food enthusiast? Take a stroll through Honolulu’s Chinatown on a guided food tour and savor local Hawaiian delicacies handpicked by a native guide!
Adrenaline junkie searching for adventure? Experience the thrill of underwater scooter submarines or take on extreme parasailing!
Embarking on a ride in an underwater submarine scooter is undeniably one of the coolest and adventurous things to do in Honolulu!
Embarking on a ride in an underwater submarine scooter is undeniably one of the coolest and adventurous things to do in Honolulu!
Whether you’re a history buff keen on World War II, eager to explore Polynesian culture, or just wanting a laid-back vacation, Honolulu has something for everyone!
You’ll want to leave Hawaii feeling satisfied that you’ve ticked off all the items on your Oahu bucket list and had some once-in-a-lifetime experiences!
Having visited Honolulu, Oahu, and Hawaii multiple times over the years, we’ve got the inside scoop on what you absolutely can’t miss!
Take a look at our handpicked list of the absolute best things to do in Honolulu, find the ones that speak to you, and enjoy!
Things to Do in Honolulu, HI
1. Enjoy Gorgeous Waikiki Beach
Savor the beauty of Waikiki Beach!
Just arrived in Honolulu? Starting your vacation with Waikiki Beach is a no-brainer! Where else in Hawaii would you kick off your adventure but on this stunning beach with its golden sand and the mesmerizing turquoise ocean?
Waikiki Beach, spanning about 3 miles, is a sought-after, narrow stretch of shoreline that reaches from Duke Kahanamoku Beach at the westernmost tip to Queen’s Beach and Sans Souci Beach at the eastern end.
In between, discover various sections of the beach, each with its own name, and a bunch of upscale resorts lining the beach or on the other side of Kalakaua Avenue (the main road parallel to the coast).
Waikiki Beach is a haven for water lovers!
Love ocean activities? Take your pick from parasailing, jet skiing, surfing, canoeing, stand up paddle boarding, and yes, even practicing yoga on a board floating in the ocean!
Not a fan of getting wet? Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the beach, soak in the sights on the water, catch breathtaking sunsets, sunbathe, relax, and catch some vibrant fireworks!
Every Friday, around 7:45 pm, the Hilton Hawaiian Village Resort puts on a 10-minute fireworks show, lighting up the Waikiki and Honolulu night sky.
Craving excitement? Our teenagers couldn’t stop talking about these three adventures: extreme parasailing, underwater submarine scooters, and learning to scuba dive.
2. Admire Iolani Palace, Residence of Hawaiian Monarchy
Location: 364 South King Street, Honolulu, HI 96813
Operating Hours: 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, Tuesday – Saturday
Admission Cost: $26.95 / adult (18+), $21.95 teen (13-17), $11.95 / child (5-12) (self-guided tour)
Reservation Info: Online reservations required
Did you know there’s a royal palace right here in America? Indeed, the one and only royal palace in the whole of America is nestled in Honolulu.
Constructed in 1882 by King Kalakaua, Iolani Palace was a sumptuous residence fit for Hawaiian royalty. Unfortunately, Queen Liliuokalani, Kalakaua’s successor, faced an unfortunate overthrow by American businessmen while residing there.
Today, Iolani Palace stands as a meticulously restored museum open to the public. It offers a glimpse into the lives of Hawaiian royalty, showcasing their opulent living spaces complete with original furniture and artwork, along with their personal possessions.
Thinking about a visit? Be sure to make online reservations and step into a piece of Hawaiian history.
3. Dine Finely at Romantic Gourmet Restaurants
Yearning for the fine dining you’re used to? Think again!
In recent years, Honolulu’s fine dining scene has undergone a delightful transformation, catering to a new wave of discerning travel foodies!
While Michelin may not have set its sights on Hawaii yet, that doesn’t mean Honolulu lacks restaurants deserving of recognition!
For a little reassurance before booking a table, consider La Mer—a AAA Five Diamond and Forbes 5-star restaurant. Nestled in the Halekulani Hotel, La Mer serves up Hawaiian-inspired French cuisine.
Planning a romantic evening for your honeymoon? A dinner with an oceanfront view at La Mer is undeniably one of the most romantic experiences for couples in Honolulu!
Can’t snag a reservation at La Mer, one of Honolulu’s most sought-after spots? Give House Without a Key or Orchids a shot—both beachfront restaurants within the Halekulani Hotel.
If you’re still on the hunt for romantic fine-dining options, check out Michel’s at the Colony Surf, Hoku’s Kahala, and 53 By The Sea!
Indulge in the best of Honolulu’s culinary delights and elevate your dining experience.
4. Appreciate History at the Bishop Museum
Location: 1525 BERNICE STREET, HONOLULU, HAWAI‘I 96817
Operating Hours: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, daily (admission closes at 4:00 pm)
Admission Cost: $28.95 / adult (18-65), $25.95 senior (65+), $20.95 / youth (4-17)
Online Tickets: [Purchase Here](#)
If the rain has you seeking indoor activities, the Bishop Museum might be just what you’re looking for!
Named in honor of Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop, the last descendant of the Hawaiian royal Kamehameha family, this museum is a treasure trove of Hawaiian and Pacific Polynesian historical artifacts.
The Bishop Museum’s natural history section boasts one of the world’s largest collections.
With numerous engaging and interactive exhibits, our kids had a blast, and so did we!
Their absolute favorite was the hot lava melt demonstration, offering a fascinating insight into how the Hawaiian islands came to be.
While the Bishop Museum features multiple signature galleries and special exhibitions, we spent the majority of our time exploring the Hawaiian Hall and the Pacific Hall.
The Hawaiian Hall delves into Hawaiian culture and history, exploring their gods, legends, and daily lives.
On the broader side, the Pacific Hall covers the Polynesian people, their migrations, culture, and the connections between remote islands.
5. Pay Your Respects at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial
Location: 1 Arizona Memorial Place, Honolulu, HI 96818
Operating Hours: 7:00 am to 5:00 pm, daily
Cost: Visitor center and museums are free
Reservations: [USS Arizona Memorial Reservations FAQs](#)
On December 7th, 1941, a day etched in infamy, Japan attacked Pearl Harbor, a pivotal US naval base. The surprise assault claimed the lives of 2403 US soldiers and civilians, and left 19 navy ships, including 8 battleships, either destroyed or damaged.
Pearl Harbor National Memorial
In remembrance of that fateful day, the Pearl Harbor National Memorial stands as a poignant tribute. Consistently ranking among the top three tourist attractions in Hawaii, it’s a testament to its significance.
Among the memorials, the USS Arizona Memorial, USS Oklahoma Memorial, and the USS Utah Memorial pay homage to the US battleships that succumbed on that day.
A must-visit is the USS Arizona Memorial, a striking white structure above the sunken battleship, a stark reminder of the 1177 sailors and Marines who perished with the ship. Each name is engraved on a marble wall, and you can witness the “tears of Arizona”—oil droplets that still seep from the battleship.
Delve into the history at the National Memorial Visitor Center, where museums and exhibits vividly depict the political climate preceding the attack, the assault itself, and the profound impact on history.
Despite being of a post-World War II generation, our group found the memorial deeply moving. Paying respects at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Honolulu.
For visits to the USS Oklahoma and the USS Utah Memorials on Ford Island (an active duty military base), reservations for the Ford Island Bus Tour are essential.
Consider a Passport to Pearl Harbor if you plan to explore multiple historic sites, as it includes the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum and Park (adjacent to the Pearl Harbor National Memorial), where you can see the USS Bowfin, a World War II submarine.
6. Snorkel Coral Reefs at Hanauma Bay
Location: 7455 Kalanianaole Hwy, Honolulu, Hawaii
Operating Hours: 6:45 am to 4:00 pm (last entry 1:30 pm), Wednesdays – Sundays
Cost: $25 / adult, kids 12 and under free
Parking: $3 / vehicle, very limited, first-come first-served
Reservations: Preferred, limited walk-ins at opening
Ready to explore the mesmerizing underwater world of coral reefs? Dive into the wonders of Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, a marine sanctuary and a globally renowned snorkeling destination!
Snorkeling at the coral reef of Hanauma Bay, a former volcanic crater, now a national reserve.
Snorkeling is one of the most enjoyable activities in Honolulu, and Hanauma Bay offers the perfect setting with its stunning horseshoe-shaped bay, vibrant marine sanctuary, tropical fish, and crystal-clear, calm waters providing excellent underwater visibility.
Hanauma Bay Ridge trail
While the kids snorkel, consider hiking the Hanauma Bay Ridge trail. From there, you can marvel at the entire coral reef structure beneath the serene clear waters!
For families with kids, Hanauma Bay is ideal, offering various facilities like a visitor center, education center, snack bar, and a gift shop at the upper parking lot level. At the lower beach level, you’ll find showers, restrooms, lockers, lifeguards, and a picnic area.
You can bring your own snorkeling gear or rent it at Hanauma Bay (snorkel gear and life vests only).
The inner reef is perfect for beginners and smaller kids, with shallow waters and gentle waves. The outer reef, further offshore, is suitable for experienced snorkelers.
I adore snorkeling at Hanauma Bay as it unveils a plethora of colorful, tropical fish: tangs, butterfly fishes, parrot fishes, wrasses, trigger fishes, and even green sea turtles.
With the newly implemented reservation system, the crowds are better controlled, ensuring ample space for your family in the waters. The reservation includes a mandatory 9-minute orientation video, emphasizing marine sanctuary conservation efforts and the importance of treating the delicate coral reef structure and marine life with care.
While parking remains a challenge, these days, I prefer taking a tour or a shuttle instead of driving. Dive into the beauty of Hanauma Bay and create unforgettable underwater memories!
7. Hike Diamond Head Crater Trail to Summit
Location: Diamond Head State Monument, Kapahulu, Honolulu, HI 96815
Operating Hours: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm (last entry 4:00 pm), daily
Cost: $5 / person, kids 3 and under free
Parking: $10 / vehicle
Reservations: Required
Climbing an extinct volcano crater head on your Oahu bucket list? Hiking the Diamond Head Crater Trail to the summit is one of the best things to do in Honolulu for you!
The Diamond Head Crater Hike is a family-friendly (older kids, not toddlers), relatively easy hike with hugely rewarding, panoramic views of the surrounding Oahu landscape.
Not in top condition? While you are mostly climbing, you can easily manage with breaks to take in the beautiful views as you climb up.
Take your camera with you, since from the top of the crater, you can get some amazing photos of Waikiki, the Honolulu skyline, and the Pacific Ocean.
Don’t like crowded trails? Beat the crowds by hiking this early, for the sunrise, if you can: this hike is one of the best sunrise hikes in Oahu!
Don’t want to drive or find parking? Check out this shuttle service that will get you to the trailhead bright and early for your sunrise hike!
8. Heal with Shopping Therapy
Love shopping as a form of retail therapy when stressed? You will like Honolulu, home to the world’s largest open-air shopping mall, Ala Moana Center!
With 350+ stores and restaurants, Ala Moana Center includes brand names like Nordstrom, Apple, Gucci, Chanel, and many others!
If you’re there at 5 pm, check out their daily free Hula show at Centerstage!
If you’re looking to window shop upscale brands, try the Royal Hawaiian Center in Waikiki that carries brand names like Ferragamo, Kate Spade, Jimmy Choo, and Hermes.
Your kids will love the free cultural events and live entertainment held at the Royal Grove. Our kids made leis, took hula lessons, and tried the ukulele!
You’ll also find many popular brands strolling along Kalakaua Avenue and Kuhio Avenue in Waikiki.
For a different kind of shopping, try Chinatown. They have boutiques and stores that offer trendy and chic clothing, jewelry, and accessories from local artists and designers.
9. Take the Kids to the Honolulu Zoo
Location: 151 Kapahulu Avenue, Honolulu, Hawaii 96815
Operating Hours: 10:00 am – 03:00 pm, daily
Cost: $21 / adult, $13 / child (3-12)
Ever seen a living, breathing komodo dragon? Oddly enough, you can see one in Honolulu, the Honolulu Zoo, to be precise.
If you’re struggling to entertain younger kids on your vacation, check out the Honolulu Zoo, home to 1200+ animals from three main zones: the African Savanna (plains), the Asian and American Tropical Forests, and the Pacific Islands.
Right as we walked in, we were greeted by a flock of very pretty, pink African flamingos, an amazing Instagram photo opportunity.
Our kids loved the experience! They could pet and feed goats, sheep, and ponies in the Keiki section of the zoo (children’s zoo).
They were fascinated by the Komodo dragons, the largest living lizards in the world. We learned they kill their prey not with their bite, but with the poison in the bite’s saliva!
The only zoo in the US to be established through a land grant by a king (King Kalakaua), Honolulu Zoo is a part of the Queen Kapiolani Park, located at the eastern end of Waikiki Beach.
10. Taste Hawaiian Local Eateries
Tired of fine dining and expensive beachfront restaurants? Why not go to the places locals frequent to get an authentic taste of Hawaii?
We didn’t dare do this on our own, having had multiple hit-and-miss experiences. On our last trip, we did venture on a food tour, based on strong recommendations from friends who had taken the tour.
It was a remarkable culinary experience, and right up your alley if you are a foodie and love experimenting with different flavors and cuisines!
Hawaii Food Tour – Off The Beaten Path is a small group, 3-hour walking food tour that takes you through fresh markets, fruit vendors, and modern-day fusion restaurants with a local guide.
Victor, our local guide, was very knowledgeable, both about the food dishes and Hawaiian culinary heritage overall, and took us through downtown Honolulu and Chinatown.
We tried everything that was offered, even from street vendors (reliable ones). Our basic motto was eat first, then ask what it was later (no spoilers)!
This food tour is one of the best fun things to do in Honolulu, and if you are an adventurous foodie, this is a must-do activity!
11. Visit Foster Botanical Garden
Location: 180 N Vineyard Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96817
Operating Hours: 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, daily
Cost: $5 / person, $1 / children (6-12), kids 5 and under free
A 13.5-acre garden in the middle of Honolulu Downtown? Yes, a few blocks from Chinatown is Foster Botanical Garden, one of the oldest botanical gardens on Oahu.
While the garden is large, there are some sections definitely worth spending time on.
The kids’ favorite was easily the Butter
12. Appreciate Artwork at the Honolulu Museum of Art
Location: 900 South Beretania Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96814
Operating Hours: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm (9:00 pm Friday, Saturday), Wednesdays – Sundays
Cost: $20 / person, kids 18 and under free
Parking: $5 (5 hours), behind the Honolulu Museum of Art School, 1111 Victoria St
Want to appreciate art? Really, while vacationing in Hawaii?
Hawaii does have many rainy days, and visiting the Honolulu Museum of Art may be one of the best things to do in Honolulu when the weather is inclement!
For art lovers, the Honolulu Museum of Art offers paintings from van Gogh, Monet, Picasso, and O’Keefe, and sculptures by Rodin, Moore, and Noguchi.
What about local Hawaiian and Polynesian art? The museum has galleries on art from the Pacific Islands (Hawaii, Polynesia, Micronesia, and Melanesia).
A Guanyin Bodhisattva wood carved Buddha statue from the Song Dynasty, China, in the Honolulu Museum of Art
Apart from galleries, the museum offers themed exhibitions, with recent themes like Hawaiian Modern: The Architecture of Vladimir Ossipoff and Artists of Hawai’i Now!
The museum is quite large; we took the docent-led Highlights Tour (offered on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays at 11:00, free with the admission fee).
The guide was very knowledgeable, and we got a much deeper appreciation of the displayed art than we would have on our own. I highly recommend taking one of their tours!
13. Hike Through a Tropical Rainforest to Manoa Falls
Yearning to bond with nature? After all, you are in Hawaii!
A hike to Manoa Falls is just what you need. The Manoa Falls Trail takes you through a lush, tropical rainforest and a dense bamboo forest to a stunning 150-foot waterfall!
Manoa Falls Oahu, a stunning waterfall in a beautiful rainforest
The hike is easy and family-friendly, on a mostly flat and well-maintained trail (though muddy after rains).
The round trip took us a couple of hours (1.6 miles round trip distance), but we stopped often to take photos.
Stunning bamboo forest and natural arch on Manoa Falls Trail, Oahu
A fan of the Jurassic Park movie series? The waterfall and tropical rainforest are so picturesque, they have provided settings for scenes from Jurassic Park, and many other movies and TV shows.
14. Swim with Dolphins at Dolphin Quest Oahu
Address: The Kahala Hotel & Resort, 5000 Kahala Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816
Operating Hours: 8:30 am to 5:00 pm, daily
Cost: Various programs
Swimming with dolphins on your Oahu bucket list? If you don’t want to swim in the open ocean with wild dolphins, Dolphin Quest Oahu is your best option!
Dolphin Quest Oahu is part of the Kahala Hotel & Resort, one of the best luxury resorts on the island of Oahu where presidents, film stars, and royalty stay.
Dolphin Quest Oahu offers a wide range of programs for different age groups and for different levels of interaction with their dolphins. Group sizes are typically limited to 6 maximum, and time duration is usually 25 minutes with the dolphins.
The dolphins are friendly and playful, housed in a natural lagoon. They are very entertaining, with all kinds of tricks they have learned from their trainers.
Friendly dolphin encounters in a safe, marine-sanctuary environment
They also have a family option, where parents can join the kids in their interactions with the dolphins.
We opted for the basic dolphin encounter program, their most popular option.
We were pleasantly surprised at what we could do in this basic dolphin encounter – swim with the dolphins, hug them, feed them, and play with them.
Our kids rated this their best experience on the vacation!
Of course, if you want the experience of swimming with wild dolphins, check out our tips and recommendations!
These are highly popular, well-ranked tours for dolphin encounters in the open ocean:
Read Also: Ho’okipa Beach Park, Maui,
15. Relax with the Family at Ala Moana Beach Park
Address: 1201 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96814
Operating Hours: 04:00 am to 10:00 pm, daily
Cost: Free public park
Is Waikiki Beach too crowded for you? Ala Moana Beach Park, a free public park, between Waikiki and downtown Honolulu, covers over 100 acres of land with a wide golden beach over a half-mile long.
Magic Island, an artificial peninsula, is a small lagoon that extends off the beach, a perfect place for families with kids to play and swim.
Magic Island in Ala Moana area with Waikiki and Honolulu in the background on the island of Oahu in Hawaii
When we were visiting Honolulu with kids, we would prefer Ala Moana Beach Park over Waikiki Beach.
With a protected shallow reef offshore, Ala Moana Beach is one of the best places in Honolulu to swim, snorkel, or paddle board. The clear, calm waters and the coral reefs in shallow waters are great for smaller kids and beginning snorkelers.
16. Bodysurf at Sandy Beach
Address: 8801 Kalanianaole Hwy, Oahu, HI 96825
Ever hear of bodysurfing? In regular surfing, you use a board to balance on and ride the waves.
Bodysurfing is a water sport that uses your body as a board to ride the waves! You don’t need any equipment, except for a pair of swim fins and maybe a hand plane.
The sport involves swimming out to the wave, catching it at the right moment, and enjoying the ride.
Sandy Beach is a world-famous bodysurfing beach, with two primary places for bodysurfing: Half Point and Full Point.
Half Point is more for learners, closer to shore and has smaller waves. Full Point is further out, bigger waves, more challenging and meant for experienced bodysurfers.
Sandy Beach (even Half Point) is definitely not the place for starting swimmers. If you are not careful, you can get thrown onto the beach or the shallow reefs.
In any case, even watching the action from the beach is great fun, especially if you have never seen bodysurfing!
17. Admire the Views from Tantalus Lookout
Address: Nutridge St, Honolulu, HI 96822
Hours: 7:00 am to 6:45 pm, daily
Want to get the best view of Honolulu from above but don’t want to hike up Diamond Head Crater? Luckily, you do have other options!
Tantalus Lookout gives you one of the best views of Honolulu from above, and the best part is you can drive right up to the lookout point, ideal if you have people in your group who can’t hike.
Located in the Puu Ualakaa State Park on the slopes of Mount Tantalus, just four miles north of Waikiki, Tantalus Lookout offers panoramic views of Honolulu, Diamond Head, Pearl Harbor, the ocean, and the mountains.
On a clear day, you can even make out landmarks like the Aloha Tower, the State Capitol, and the Punchbowl Crater.
Can you time your visit to late evening? If so, you are in for a colorful treat. Sunset views from Tantalus Lookout are simply stunning!
Stay a bit longer, and you will see a spectacular night-lit Honolulu skyline!
Taking in the views from Tantalus Lookout is one of the best things to do in Honolulu for free!
18. Climb the 1000+ Stairs of Koko Crater Railway Trail
Address: 7604 Koko Head Park Rd #7602, Honolulu, HI 96825
Hours: 6:30 am – 11:00 pm, daily
Parking: Free parking lot near the baseball diamond
Cost: Free
Want a fitness challenge while on vacation in Honolulu? What better than climbing 1000+ steps, remnants of an old railway track, up to the summit of Koko Head, an extinct volcanic crater.
A challenging hike, and a bit scary in places (there is a section where the tracks are more like a bridge with drops of 10+ feet), the reward for reaching the summit is fabulous, panoramic views!
On clear days, you can see the Honolulu skyline, Hanauma Bay, Sandy Beach and the Diamond Head Crater.
Note, there is a bypass (called Murphy’s bypass) that lets you skip the bridge-like section.
The Koko Head Hike is a very popular hike, and I strongly recommend you do this as early in the morning as you can. You will avoid crowds (except for the most dedicated hikers), and beat the heat (no shade on the trail).
See if you can push yourself to get there early enough to see the sunrise from the top, one of the best places to watch colorful, spectacular sunrises on Oahu!
Interested? Check out our best tips on how to hike the Koko Head Trail!
Hiking the Koko Head Trail is one of the best things to do in Honolulu, and an Oahu bucket list item for so many!
19. Enjoy a Luau Feast and Entertainment
Been to a luau yet? No vacation in Hawaii is complete without attending a luau, a traditional Hawaiian celebration with a feast and entertainment.
Luaus usually start with a traditional greeting of guests with leis, a necklace of flowers, and drinks.
The luau we attended included interactive activities for kids, where they learned to make Hawaiian arts, crafts, and music, like leis and play the ukulele, and play Hawaiian games.
Next is the feast, and the highlight is usually kalua pig, a whole pig cooked in an imu, an earthen, underground oven.
The luau feast can include yummy traditional entrees like poi (a paste made from taro), lomi salmon (a salad of raw salmon, tomatoes, and onions), poke (a dish of raw fish marinated in soy sauce and spices), haupia (a coconut pudding), and tropical fruits.
The feast is accompanied (or followed) by a spectacular show with graceful hula dancers, energetic fire knife dancers, and talented musicians playing ukulele, conch shells, and drums!
Some luaus encourage audience participation towards the end, so jump in and enjoy the fun, and learn some hula moves!
The Paradise Cove Luau is a well-rated, popular luau at the Ko Olina Resort, a few miles from Honolulu, that we have attended and liked in the past.
It has a beautiful beachfront setting with stunning views of the sunset and the ocean, and watching the performers against this background is a perfect luau experience!
20. Admire Desert Plants at the Koko Crater Botanical Garden
Address: 7491 Kokonani St, Honolulu, HI 96825
Hours: Sunrise to sunset, daily
Cost: Free
A botanical garden inside a volcanic crater?
The Koko Crater Botanical Garden is a different kind of garden, focusing on plants from dry and arid regions, and very appropriate for a garden at the base of an extinct volcanic crater.
Note, you don’t have to hike the grueling Koko Crater trail to reach the garden, you can drive up to a dirt parking lot near the entrance.
We took the self-guided tour around the 2-mile loop (took us 2 hours because we spent some time taking photos and reading about the plants.
You can’t miss the plumerias and bougainvillea, they are right at the entrance. If you are visiting in spring or fall, many of the flowers are in full bloom and very pretty!
21. Cool off with Shave Ice!
Want to cool off after a challenging hike or a hot day? Shave ice is a refreshing and delicious Hawaiian treat perfect to beat the heat.
An ice-based dessert made by shaving a block of ice, shave ice can be flavored with syrups as banal as vanilla or as unfamiliar as mango and lychee. You can have blended syrups like a rainbow syrup or create your combination.
Like in an ice cream, you can add toppings like azuki beans or mochi balls.
Waiola Shave Ice (one on Waiola Street, another on Mokihana Street) is a very popular place to taste shave ice, a fixture in Honolulu since the 1940s. They have smooth and fluffy shave ice that melts in your mouth!
My favorite is the Li Hing Mui (salty dried plum, tangy) shave ice with vanilla ice cream, a classic Hawaiian combo that balances sweet and sour flavors.
Eating shave ice is one of my favorite fun things to do in Honolulu!
22. Watch Majestic Humpback Whales Breach
Visiting Honolulu in the winter season? What luck! You are vacationing in Hawaii just when an epic migration of humpback whales is underway.
The humpback whales leave their feeding grounds near Alaska and migrate to the warm waters near the Hawaiian islands to mate and breed.
While the peak density is typically in the months of January and February, you are likely to see whales all through winter.
Maui is the best Hawaiian island given its proximity to popular breeding areas like the Maui Nui Basin and the Au’au Channel, the whales are so plentiful, you can see them from Honolulu as well.
Your best option to spot a whale is to book a whale-watching tour, many of which will guarantee whale sightings or offer a second tour!
We took the Oahu Whale-Watching Excursion in late January, and had so many whale sightings, even pods of whales and a whale calf with its mother.
Watching a humpback whale breach, one of the best things to do in Honolulu!
We checked off one of our Oahu bucket list items: watching a giant male humpback whale breach the surface of water completely!
23. Cover Oahu Highlights with a Circle Island Tour
Don’t want to limit your vacation to Honolulu? There are many tours that circle the island, taking you to highlights of what Oahu has to offer.
On one of our first vacations, we did just that. With smaller kids, we spent the bulk of the time in Waikiki and Honolulu.
But before we left, we spent one day with a circle island tour, and boy, were we glad we did! The rest of Oahu has a much more relaxed rhythm to it, with some activities localized to particular parts of the island.
Iconic Halona Blowhole on the windward side of Oahu
First-time visitor to Oahu? These wildly popular, 5-star rated circle island tours will take you to most of the tourist attractions on Oahu
So even if you don’t make a return trip, at least you’ll have covered what’s best on Oahu!
If you do return, and we hope you do, you’ll have a good idea as to where to focus your time optimally!
24. Explore the Windward Side of Oahu
Have a day to spare just for the windward side (east shore) of Oahu? You’ll be happy you did!
The windward side faces the trade winds and gets a lot more rain! Hiking in nature here is pure joy, strolling through lush, green tropical rainforests along bubbling streams and to beautiful waterfalls!
Here are a few of the best things to do on the windward side of Oahu.
Kualoa Ranch
Fan of Jurassic Park movie series? You must allocate some time at Kualoa Ranch, a beautiful setting for many popular Hollywood movies (in fact, they have a Hollywood tour to take you to the different sites)!
But there is much more to Kualoa Ranch: ATVs, horseback riding, ziplining, and even a jungle expedition
Lanikai Beach and Kailua Beach
Lanikai Beach and the adjacent Kailua Beach are two stunning beaches with fine golden sand and clear, turquoise ocean waters!
Kitesurfing, paddleboarding, surfing, swimming, and kayaking are popular beach activities.
Lanikai Pillbox Hike, one of the best easy hikes on Oahu, is a stone’s throw from Lanikai Beach.
Kaneohe Sandbar
A sandy island that appears and disappears with the tides, Kaneohe Sandbar is a unique location for fun-filled family activities from ocean sports like jet skiing to snorkeling to water volleyball!
We took this popular afternoon Kaneohe Sandbar Snorkeling tour and the kids had a great couple of hours snorkeling and playing around on the shallow sandbar.
25. Spend a Day on the North Shore of Oahu
And what about the North Shore of Oahu? From world-class surfing at the Banzai Pipeline to family-oriented Waimea Valley and the Polynesian Cultural Center, the North Shore has many of the best things to do in Oahu!
With limited time, your best option is a North Shore of Oahu tour, and there are many popular, 5-star rated tours
Want to skip the tour and plan a day’s outing on your own? Check out our best things to do on the North Shore of Oahu post!
Here are three of the highlights.
Cage Diving with Sharks
Family with teenagers seeking a thrill? How does cage diving with sharks sound?
You are in a steel, polyglass cage lowered below the surface in shark-infested open ocean waters, where sharks as big as tiger sharks swim so close, you are scared to breathe!
Polynesian Cultural Center
The Polynesian Cultural Center, a hands-on, interactive center, is the perfect place to imbibe Polynesian culture, and for you and your kids to learn to make leis, play the ukulele, and even spear throwing!
The Alii Luau at the Polynesian Cultural Center and HA: Breath of Life, an amazing show with over 100 performers, are very popular.
Waimea Valley Falls
Pressed for time? Waimea Valley gives you the opportunity to combine three treats: an amazing waterfall with a natural swimming pool at its base, a beautiful botanical garden dotted with ancient Hawaiian archeological structures, and one of the best luaus on Oahu, the Toa Luau!
Where to Stay in Honolulu?
Most visitors to Honolulu stay in Waikiki, known for its many resorts, shopping, and dining. You can also stay in the Ala Moana neighborhood, or Diamond Head or Kahala.
Hotels and Resorts in Honolulu
The Halekulani Hotel is the top luxury choice in Honolulu. It has been serving customers for almost 100 years! With a location right by the ocean, a gorgeous pool, and elegant rooms, this is the perfect splurge stay in Honolulu!
The Sheraton Waikiki is located right on Waikiki Beach and offers spectacular views of the water and the Diamond Head Crater. The resort offers lovely outdoor pools and onsite dining. Some rooms come with ocean views.
Prince Waikiki is located centrally in Honolulu and features a striking modern design. It is walking distance to the Ala Moana Shopping Center. The pool offers ocean views as do many of the rooms. Enjoy the sunset from your window!
The Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort has a prime location on Waikiki Beach, with the Duke Kahanamoku Beach and Lagoon right in front. The resort offers five inviting pools with waterfalls and a water slide.
The Lotus Hotel is a great boutique choice in Honolulu. With a choice location between Kapiolani Park and the white sand beach, the Lotus Hotel offers great views of Diamond Head and a tranquil stay amidst the bustle of Waikiki.
How to Get Around Honolulu?
Honolulu is like any other large American metropolis, you can get around easily by renting a car or with Uber or Lyft.
We rent cars when we want to explore on our own, especially outside Honolulu.
We use Discover Cars for car rentals when we travel to Hawaii. Discover Cars searches for deals across several car rental companies, from brand to budget, and offers you the best choices for your travel dates.
Another interesting transportation alternative is the hop-on, hop-off option like the Waikiki Trolley Hop-On Hop-Off Tour of Honolulu, which allows you to jump onto a double-decker bus or open-air trolley an unlimited number of times for 1, 4, or 7-day options.
Things to do in Honolulu: FAQ
How can I save money on the best things to do in Honolulu?
For a family with kids, visiting the Honolulu Zoo, the Bishop Museum, the Honolulu Museum of Art, and many of the other best things to do in Honolulu quickly adds up.
Oahu is part of the Go City program, and an all-inclusive pass is worth exploring! We used this on many of our vacations and saved a substantial amount of money.
Best Oahu Tours
Have you booked these popular Oahu tours and excursions yet?
Love snorkeling? This Turtle Canyon snorkeling excursion from Waikiki lets you frolic with colorful fish and Hawaiian green sea turtles. Hands down the MOST BOOKED Oahu snorkeling tour: turtle sightings are guaranteed!
The most popular luau in Oahu, Paradise Cove Luau has a 4.5 rating on Viator with over 3.5K reviews. The tour includes pick-up from your Waikiki hotel, pre-dinner games, arts, and crafts, a delicious meal, and an award-winning show.
Based in Waikiki but want to see more of the island? This full-day Oahu Circle Island Tour includes Diamond Head, Hanauma Bay, Haleiwa, the Dole Plantation, and more!
Pay your respects at the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor! This popular Pearl Harbor tour includes boat tickets and round-trip transport from Waikiki.
A super popular Oahu North Shore excursion, this Oahu shark cage dive allows you to observe wild sharks in the open ocean from the safety of a cage! It’s a THRILLING Oahu adventure for your bucket list.
We have a detailed guide to the top Oahu tours and excursions if you are planning your itinerary for the island.
Honolulu Airport-Hotel Shuttle
If you are not planning to get a rental car at Honolulu Airport, consider booking shuttle transport in advance!
This shared shuttle can be canceled up to 24 hours from the date of service. It serves hotels in Waikiki and Honolulu and then back again to the airport the day you leave. It’s convenient and inexpensive, and saves time and hassle!
Staying in Ko Olina? Consider this round-trip airport transfer instead!
More Oahu Travel Inspiration
Planning a trip to Oahu? Check out our other in-depth Oahu travel guides for help finalizing your Oahu itinerary!
Start by discovering the best things to do in Oahu. We also have a detailed guide to Oahu’s North Shore, a round-up of things to do on the east side of Oahu, and the best things to do in Ko Olina, on the west coast of the island.
Of course, you’ll want to learn about all the exciting things to do in Honolulu, Hawaii’s capital, and Waikiki, the touristic core of Oahu.
We also have a guide to the best beaches in Oahu and a round-up of the must-visit Oahu waterfalls.
Oahu is home to so many must-visit landmarks! Check out our in-depth article on how to visit Pearl Harbor, and our guides on the beautiful Waimea Valley in Oahu and the spectacular Byodo-In Temple.
Want to enjoy the thrill of observing sharks in the wild? Check out our article on shark cage diving on Oahu’s North Shore!
Conclusion
In conclusion, navigating Oahu without a rental car at Honolulu Airport is made convenient with the option of booking a shared shuttle in advance. This service not only ensures hassle-free transportation to and from hotels in Waikiki and Honolulu but also offers flexibility with a cancellation policy of up to 24 hours before the scheduled service.
For those staying in Ko Olina, an alternative round-trip airport transfer is available, providing an efficient and cost-effective solution.
As you plan your Oahu adventure, explore the diverse array of activities and attractions across the island, from the vibrant city life in Honolulu and Waikiki to the natural wonders of the North Shore and the serene landscapes of Ko Olina. Whether you’re interested in historical sites, pristine beaches, or thrilling adventures like shark cage diving, Oahu offers a rich tapestry of experiences.
Leverage our detailed travel guides to optimize your itinerary, making the most of your time on this beautiful Hawaiian island. Whether you’re fascinated by the poignant history of Pearl Harbor, the lush beauty of Waimea Valley, or the exhilarating shark encounters on the North Shore, Oahu has something to captivate every traveler.
It’s James Wilson, the enthusiastic mind behind “Go Hawaii US.” I’ve immersed myself in the beauty of Hawaii, bringing my expertise and hands-on experience to the forefront. With a deep passion for exploring Hawaii’s wonders, I’m all about sharing insights, uncovering hidden gems, and fostering a collective love for the magic of the islands.
Come along with me on this journey, where we dive into the intricacies of Hawaii and celebrate the allure it brings to the world of travel!
