Things to do in Honolulu

Midori

From Midori's guidebook

The Honolulu Zoo is a 42-acre zoo in Queen Kapiʻolani Park. It is the only zoo in the United States to be established by grants made by a sovereign monarch and is built on part of the 300-acre royal Queen Kapiʻolani Park. The Honolulu Zoo features over 1,230 animals in specially designed habitats. There's also tours available and a petting zoo! (a little local tip: try to come as soon as they open - that's when all the animals are being fed and come out of hiding!)

Sonya

From Sonya's guidebook

Did you know? The Honolulu Zoo took 4th place in the 2024 USA Today “Best 10”, “Best Zoo in America” category. The Zoo is a straight shot down Kalakaua Avenue, 1.2 miles, so you can load the kids in Hale Honu Kai’s beach wagon and get your workout for the day! The Zoo has food there to buy and also, in Hawaii tradition, allows outside food, even coolers. (Hawaii people would rebel if they didn’t!😅) There are many rare tropical plants scattered throughout the grounds, so keep your eyes open. And there’s a botanical garden as well as a Rainforest zone, a Pacific Island area, and a African Savanna zone. The Honolulu Zoo was established in 1877 by King Kalakaua and Queen Kapiolani. As you would expect from the premier zoo in Hawaii, Hawaiian birds and animals are fully represented plus the unique flora of Hawaii. Geographically, Hawaii is the most remote place on the planet, surrounded by a vast ocean in every direction, so lots of interesting flora and fauna were able to develop. For the kids, there’s a “Keiki (Children’s) Zoo” with some fun tunnels and goats to pet. There is also a playground if they get inspired by the monkeys!😄🐒 Admission is $21 for adults, $13 for children, babies and toddlers under 2 are free.

Christian

From Christian's guidebook

The Honolulu Zoo is a 42-acre zoo featuring hundreds of animals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. The grounds also include a huge variety of tropical plants, creating a botanical garden setting, which includes native Hawaiian plants. There are also native Hawaiian animals in residence, including the Hawaiian Goose, Nene, and the Hawaiian Hawk, 'Io. Additionally, there are many favorites such as tigers, elephants, monkeys, and Komodo dragons. The Honolulu Zoo is the only zoo that sits on a royal land grant. Today, the zoo represents three tropical zones: the African Savannah, tropical rainforests, and island ecosystems. There is also a children's zoo and playground. Address: 151 Kapahulu Avenue, Honolulu, Hawaii

DeAnna

From DeAnna's guidebook

The Waikiki Aquarium, established in 1904, is the second-oldest public aquarium in the United States. Notable exhibits include the Hawaiian Monk Seal Habitat, coral farms, and interactive touch pools. While the aquarium's size is modest, its well-curated displays and emphasis on conservation make it a worthwhile visit, especially for families and marine life enthusiasts. Visitors typically spend about an hour exploring the exhibits. The aquarium is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Christian

From Christian's guidebook

The Waikiki Aquarium educates visitors about Hawaii's unique sea life and the marine communities of the South Pacific. Exhibits feature both habitats and specific animals, with a large portion of the aquarium dedicated to the ecology and residents of coral reefs. Within several coral reef exhibits, kids will love to learn about the relationship between clownfish and sea anemones; get an up-close look at reef predators like sharks and groupers; and view the aquarium's coral farm, which produces colonies that are used by other aquariums around the world. Visitors also come to see the aquarium's Northwestern Hawaiian Islands exhibit, home to two critically endangered monk seals, as well as several other unique marine species only found among these uninhabited islands. Other exhibits include the underwater habitat in a mangrove forest, giant clams, jellyfish, and an assortment of rare deep-sea fish and invertebrates. Address: 2777 Kalakaua Avenue, Honolulu, Hawaii

Happy Vacations

From Happy Vacations's guidebook

Small but full of wonder, the Waikīkī Aquarium showcases the rich marine life of Hawaiʻi and the Pacific. Located near the zoo and beach, it’s a great stop for families or ocean lovers. You’ll see colorful reef fish, jellyfish, coral exhibits, and even Hawaiian monk seals. It’s indoors and air-conditioned, making it a great escape on a hot afternoon. Local Tip: This is one of the oldest aquariums in the U.S., and it’s deeply connected to local conservation—great for learning while exploring!

James & Mira

From James & Mira's guidebook

This is an intense 0.8 mile (each way) trail and 885 feet stair climb up a former train track, that culminates with some amazing ocean views at the top of the mountain. All the hard work of climbing stairs is worth it! - Go early to avoid the heat - Bring a bottle of water - Wear sneaker. Lots of stairs... - it takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes for us to go up and down. We took multiple breaks on the way up as and rest at the top to enjoy the view :D - Free entry Pro tip: - When you get to the bridge, there is alternate path off to the right if it feels too scary.

Teney

From Teney's guidebook

This is a challenging hike with a trail that ascends over 800 feet in less than half a mile. You'll be rewarded with great views from the top. Not recommended for smaller children, elderly, or those that may not be able to handle steep inclines.

James

From James's guidebook

If you enjoy challenging hikes or want to show your family and friends that you're "outdoorsy," then this hiking trail made from an abandoned railway track that leads all the way to the top of Koko Head will be a must visit. Once you get to the top, the views of the east side of the island will almost make you forget how much pain you're in after climbing 1,000+ steps.

Ngan & Hung

From Ngan & Hung's guidebook

Arrive at Halona Blowhole Lookout early in the morning (before 10 AM) to beat the crowds and catch the best lighting for photos. For an extra experience, look to your right—there’s a path leading down to Halona Beach Cove, a hidden gem featured in classic films.

Ssen

From Ssen's guidebook

Whale season in Hawaii lasts from November to May, with the peak of the season between January and March. Halona Blowhole lookout is one of the best locations to do whale watching!

Ka'Iulani Aina Properties

From Ka'Iulani Aina Properties's guidebook

Halona Blowhole Lookout is a popular scenic stop on Oahu's southeastern coast, known for its natural ocean geyser that shoots seawater up to 30 feet in the air through an underwater lava tube, especially during high surf

Karolina

From Karolina's guidebook

The Manoa Falls Trail is a lush rainforest track on the island of Oahu, about a 20-minute drive from downtown Honolulu. The 1.6-mile return trip takes 1 to 2 hours, and its gentle gradient is forgiving enough for casual hikers and families. Entry is free, but if you will want to use their parking it’s cost $5. Be aware of mosquitoes

Brandon

From Brandon's guidebook

Easy hike, in the backyard of UH Manoa! Parking: Free if you park in the residential neighborhood and walk 1/4 mile to the trailhead; OR paid parking if you park in the Paradise Park parking lot at the trailhead. What to wear: Mosquito repellent (otherwise those suckers will definitely sniff you out here!), and shoes and clothes that you don't mind getting wet and muddy.

Robert

From Robert's guidebook

Manoa Falls Trail: This trail takes you through lush rainforest scenery to the stunning Manoa Falls, a 150-foot waterfall. It's a relatively easy hike suitable for most skill levels and is located near Honolulu.

Jayson

From Jayson's guidebook

Duke Kahanamoku is one of the most well known Waikiki Beach Boys that put surfing on the map!

Chelsea

From Chelsea's guidebook

The famous statue of Duke overlooking some of Waikiki's best surf breaks.

Kyla

From Kyla's guidebook

On Kuhio Beach, a bronze statue of Duke Kahanamoku welcomes you to Waikiki with open arms. Duke Kahanamoku is a world famous Hawaiian hero and one of the world's greatest watermen, a master of swimming, surfing and outrigger canoe paddling. Many tourist and locals love to come to this beach to relax, surf, and of course take pictures with Duke's statue!

Mary

From Mary's guidebook

The Bishop Museum has Hawaiian artifacts from the royal family, as well as a science museum with a large indoor interactive volcano display, and a planetarium with daily shows to teach you how to navigate with the stars or just to see the different constellations in the Hawaiian night sky.

Matt

From Matt's guidebook

Founded in 1889 by Charles Reed Bishop, in honor of his wife Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop—the last descendant of the royal Kamehameha dynasty—Bishop Museum houses the largest collection of Hawaiian and Pacific cultural artifacts and natural history specimens in the world.

June

From June's guidebook

The largest collection of Hawaiian artifacts in the state. Honolulu’s Bishop Museum is Hawaii’s largest museum dedicated to studying and preserving the history of Hawaii and the Pacific. Originally designed to house the extensive collection of Hawaiian artifacts and royal family heirlooms of Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop, a descendent of King Kamehameha I, the museum is now the premier natural and cultural history institution in the Pacific. One of Oahu’s most historic places, the museum holds millions of artifacts, documents and photos about Hawaii and other Polynesian cultures. Open 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM everyday except for Tuesdays and Christmas day.

Matt

From Matt's guidebook

Iolani Palace, the official residence of Hawaii's monarchy, is a marvel of opulence, innovation and political intrigue. Meticulously restored to its former grandeur, this National Historic Landmark in downtown Honolulu tells of a time when their Majesties, King Kalakaua, who built the palace in 1882, and his sister and successor, Queen Liliuokalani, walked its celebrated halls.

Jenni's Cozy Retreat In Waikiki

From Jenni's Cozy Retreat In Waikiki's guidebook

The home of Hawaii’s King Kalākaua and his sister/successor Queen Liliuokalani, who ruled from 1882 through 1893 as the kingdom’s final 2 monarchs. One of the must-sees is the quilt the queen stitched while she was imprisoned for 9 months in a small room on the upper floor of the palace.

Christian

From Christian's guidebook

Built in 1882, Iolani Palace was the home of the last monarchs of Hawaii until the overthrow of the kingdom in 1893. The palace had electricity before the White House and it’s the only official royal residence in the United States. For anyone who is interested in royalty, architecture, and historic places, it’s really something to see. But more than that, it’s important. I highly recommend booking a guided tour with a docent to learn the history of the Hawaiian monarchy and how it was overthrown. It’s a sad story (and one that’s surprisingly unknown to most Americans), and standing in the rooms where it happened, listening to the stories, makes it seem much more real and recent.

Tom

From Tom's guidebook

No trip to Oahu is complete without visiting here! ARIZONA: Completed in 1961, the 184-foot long memorial crosses the Arizona’s mid-section. A flag flies from a pole attached to its severed mainmast. While waiting for the Navy’s free shuttle ride to the memorial, see a historic film or explore the museum with its military memorabilia. Hours: 7:30 A.M. to 3:00 P.M. Go to the Halawa Gate off of Kamehameha Highway. Tour is FREE (first come, first served) but expect long lines, so GET THERE EARLY (before 8AM)! For further info: Nat'l. Park Service: Arizona Memorial Hotline: (808) 422-0561

Emma

From Emma's guidebook

A very full day - ask me specifically about Arizona Memorial tickets (try to prebook, or do stand by). Also the USS Bowfin (submarine) museum. The USS Missouri (battleship) - a shuttle ride from the main entry; and the Pacific Aviation Museum (also a shuttle ride from the main entry). Really need to choose one Museum and the Memorial and that will take about 4 hours. Well worth a visit to any or all of the sites. Also plenty of historic exhibits at the main entrance, and a short documentary about the Pearl Harbor attacks which is well worth watching for the context before visiting the memorial.

Real Select International

From Real Select International's guidebook

One of the most historic locations in the U.S. There are four distinct destinations at Pearl Harbor, tour the USS Arizona Memorial, USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park, Battleship Missouri Memorial and the Pacific Aviation Museum at Pearl Harbor. Admission is free to USS Arizona Memorial and to USS Oklahoma Memorial.

Poulami

From Poulami's guidebook

Visit the poignant Pearl Harbor Memorial in Oahu to pay tribute to the events of December 7, 1941. Immerse yourself in the history of this significant site, explore the museums, and witness the solemn USS Arizona Memorial. Reflect on the past, honor the fallen, and gain a deeper understanding of World War II's impact on the nation.

Heidi

From Heidi's guidebook

An incredible way to remember the men and women who served on Pearl Harbor during World War II and hear the history of the surprise attacks on that December day. Be sure to make a reservation ahead of time online to get your spot for the ferry boat to see the USS Arizona. It is a sobering and beautlful experience. Open Reservations usually become available several days in advance.

Geoffrey

From Geoffrey's guidebook

This monument to the opening battle of the US entry into WWII is must see for visitors to Oahu. It's worth the 1-hour drive to Pearl Harbor to honor the men who died on December 7, 1941. Be sure to book tickets in advance. Also see the USS Missouri, where the surrender ending the war was signed in 1945, while you are there.

Lisseth

From Lisseth's guidebook

Named after the local surfing legend Duke Kahanamoku who grew up in the very place where the restaurant now resides, Duke's pays homage to his legacy with an ambiance that echoes the aloha spirit. This oceanfront restaurant is divided into two sections - the dining room that accepts reservations and walk-ins (usually 30-60 minute wait) and the barefoot cafe (only walk-ins). Prices are a bit higher, but the ambiance and live music will make you feel the Hawaiian vibe.

DeAnna

From DeAnna's guidebook

Duke's Waikiki is a beachfront restaurant in Honolulu offering Hawaiian-inspired cuisine, including fresh seafood and steaks. The venue is renowned for its ocean views and live music, providing a lively atmosphere. A must-try dessert is their signature Hula Pie, featuring macadamia nut ice cream on a chocolate cookie crust, topped with hot fudge and whipped cream. While the ambiance and location are highlights, some patrons find the food to be average and the restaurant often crowded. Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times.

Sam

From Sam's guidebook

Admire the sweeping views of Diamond Head while listening to live music from local legend Henry Kapono at Duke's. Enjoy their Signature Mai Tai & delectable tropical drinks.

Matt

From Matt's guidebook

The Honolulu Museum of Art is a collection of stunning cultural pieces developed by local artists and expressive of the island's deep, rich culture. As a collection, the museum includes Hokusai, van Gogh, Gauguin, Monet, Picasso, and Warhol, as well as traditional Asian and Hawaiian art.

Neil

From Neil's guidebook

Want to catch an artsy film, new exhibit, or take an art class? The Honolulu Museum of Art is more than just a museum. They are dedicated to the ethnically diverse arts community in Hawaii, offering visual arts, arts education, performing arts, films and videos, and public programs that focus on the museum’s unique location in the Pacific. Stay includes admission for 2 by reservation only, $10 Adults, Free for ages 17 & under Thurs & Sun, 10am - 6pm; Fri & Sat, 10am - 9pm

Santiago

From Santiago's guidebook

Doris Duke and Shangri La tour start from here, totally worth looking into and reservations must be made in advance. Also see calendar of events for more activities while on vacation.

Kate

From Kate's guidebook

This huge park near Waikiki used to be an old horse race track. The perimeter is about a 2-mile walk and it's peaceful with really interesting people watching. You might see yoga classes, martial arts, soccer, picnics, dogs playing. I like to walk the perimeter of the park and then watch the sunset at Sans Souci Beach

Gar

From Gar's guidebook

Queen Kapiʻolani Regional Park is the largest public park in Hawaii, located within walking distance on the east end of Waikiki and hosts the Honolulu Zoo and the Waikiki Shell. This beautiful park includes tennis and basketball courts, soccer, baseball, lacrosse and rugby fields, an archery range, and is a gathering place that thrives with walkers, runners, tennis enthusiasts and picnickers. Grab lunch on Kalakaua Avenue and enjoy it in one of the shaded picnic areas scattered around this colorful park with spectacular views of Diamond Head and the ocean!

Douglas

From Douglas's guidebook

Wonderful park at the end of Waikiki great for all activities. Enjoy picnics, jogging, tennis, field sports or simply relax and watch the sunset.

Sidney

From Sidney's guidebook

Head to this lookout from the LONG way, (go around this route CLOCK-wise and enjoy the drive) but on your way back down will be one of the most beautiful lookout points that has breath-taking views. A must visit if you can. You can see almost the entire southern coast of the island from west to almost all the way east.

Nicole

From Nicole's guidebook

A breathtaking lookout over Honolulu and the ocean. If you rent a car, we 100% suggest making the drive up here.

Christy-Charity

From Christy-Charity's guidebook

A must visit: amazing views day or night. A driving hike to see amazing Honolulu views (see Honolulu during daytime or see the Honolulu city lights)

Travis And Emi

From Travis And Emi's guidebook

Easily one of the most popular beaches in East Honolulu, Sandy Beach is regarded as one of the best bodyboarding beaches in the Islands. Its famous — and incredibly dangerous — shore break, formed by a quick change in the ocean floor, draws experienced spongers and bodysurfers from around the world, including President Barack Obama, who grew up bodysurfing the waves here. But the danger at Sandy’s is no joke: every year, Honolulu lifeguards make more rescues here per beach user than at any other beach they guard on Oahu. But there’s more than just shorebreak here. Sandy’s boasts a couple of popular surf breaks offshore, a nice bank of sand to lounge on while watching the waves, and a huge grassy field where you’ll often find dogs running and kites flying overhead on the weekends. You can catch gorgeous sunrises from this beach, too, especially in the summertime.

Richard

From Richard's guidebook

Sandy Beach is Hawaii Kai's premier bodyboarding and surfing destination. Known for its consistent waves, Sandy Beach has a beautiful scenic view from mauka to makai and is enjoyed as much by those on the sand as it is by those in the water. Popular with tourists and locals alike and visited regularly by various food trucks, just be careful of strong surf and currents

Tracy

From Tracy's guidebook

Sandy Beach is a beach on the South Shore of Oʻahu in Hawaii. It is known for its excellent bodyboarding and bodysurfing opportunities due to shore break and consistent barrels. Consequently, more injuries occur per year at Sandy Beach than any other beach in Hawaii, earning it the infamous nickname, "break-neck" beach. The water is especially dangerous during high surf, when strong rip currents are present. The beach park is located between Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve Park on the west and Makapuʻu Point on east along 8800 Kalanianaole Highway in Honolulu's southside neighborhood. In October 2014, Honolulu City Council member Stanley Chang proposed changing the name of Sandy Beach to "President Barack Obama Sandy Beach Park." The plans were dropped due to opposition from the public. Not recommended for young children or those who seek gentle waters. Do not swim if you're not a strong swimmer.

Teney

From Teney's guidebook

This nature preserve is about 15 minutes away from our home. It has a nice beach and you can use snorkels to see a variety of fish and wlidlife. You must reserve tickets beforehand here: https://pros4.hnl.info/hanauma-bay Tickets are available online for the next two days at 7am, and it's recommended to log in exactly at 7am, because tickets go quickly.

Emmanuel

From Emmanuel's guidebook

Hanauma Bay is an extinct volcanic crater with one wall washed away by the sea. It is a natural wildlife preserve with over 880 different species of fish. You will need to get a reservation from the City’s website to visit

Jenni's Cozy Retreat In Waikiki

From Jenni's Cozy Retreat In Waikiki's guidebook

it's best to arrive before 8. am or after 2 pm, $7.50 entry fee. A nature preserve, it is excellent for those who want to snorkel in a safe, beautiful environment. Hanauma Bay is home to some of O'ahu's best coral and sea life.

Midway Vacations

From Midway Vacations's guidebook

Ala Moana Beach Park is a favorite local spot known for its wide, sandy beach and calm, lagoon-like water protected by an offshore reef. It’s great for swimming, stand-up paddling, jogging, or enjoying a picnic under the shady trees. The park is spacious and less crowded than Waikiki, giving you plenty of room to relax. Located just across from Ala Moana Center, it’s an easy stop before or after shopping, and a wonderful place to experience a more local side of Honolulu.

Neil

From Neil's guidebook

Ala Moana Beach Park is a playground that just about offers something for everyone, including a half mile beach strip stretch of white sand. Compared to many Oahu beaches, Ala Moana Hawaii offers acres of shady trees, picnic tables, and a wide expanse of grass to play around in the park, including tennis courts, a yacht club, 3 concession stands, and an additional half-crescent beach called Magic Island. And all of this is across the street from the famed open-roof Ala Moana Mall.

Mary

From Mary's guidebook

Stunning mile long beach filled with locals as well as tourists. Come here for a 2 mile walk or jog around the park, or go for a short or long swim. There's also magic island, which also has it's own enclosed beach, all in the same park. Enjoy the amazing sunsets, and a snack at the local favorite L & L BBQ restaurants.

Jess

From Jess's guidebook

Fort DeRussy Beach Park is a 71-acre, mostly public, beachfront military reservation in Waikiki known for having some of the widest, least crowded sandy beaches in the area. It features calm, shallow, reef-protected waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling, along with expansive, well-maintained lawns, picnic areas, and the U.S. Army Museum of Hawaii.

Christian

From Christian's guidebook

This beach is behind the condo. Just past Kahanamoku Beach is Fort DeRussy Beach Park, a lovely spot that offers a grassy area for picnics and recreation. This is followed by the small Gray's Beach and then the Royal Hawaiian Beach, which is without a doubt the most famous and crowded part of Waikiki. Beachgoers will find most of the area's amenities centered around this area, including catamaran rentals, outrigger canoes, and surfing lessons, as well as several beach shacks.

Lisa

From Lisa's guidebook

The military owns 70+ acres along Waikiki beach open to the public. There are charcoal grills and a FREE military museum. Park in the parking garage across from the military resort/hotel (Hale Koa) on the corner of Kalia Road and Maluhia Road.

Kerri

From Kerri's guidebook

This 4 story outdoor mall claims to be the largest open air shopping center in the world and 8th largest mall in America with everything from Rolex, Giorgio Armani, Moncler, Gucci to PacSun, Hilo Hattie, Target, and local Hawaiian stores. Great restaurants, bars, and areas to sit and relax under the Banyan trees or by Center Stage and people watch.

Gina

From Gina's guidebook

Open-Air Shopping Mall in Honolulu, Hawaii The refreshing Hawaiian wind blows through Ala Moana Center, the world's largest open-air shopping center. There are more than 350 shops and restaurants to explore, including multiple department stores, first-class boutiques and over 160 dining options. The center's retailers specialize in everything from casual wear to unique Hawaii surf gear and much more. Join us at Ala Moana Center in Honolulu, HI for a shopping excursion in paradise, and don't forget to enjoy the hula performances.

Penny

From Penny's guidebook

The largest open-air shopping mall in the world 🛍️. From luxury brands to local shops and a wide variety of dining options. Tip: free parking is available but fills up quickly during peak hours. You can also take the bus directly from Waikiki. Don’t miss the free daily hula shows, and the food court is great for quick, affordable meals.