Attractions
Honolulu, United States, has many attractions that draw people worldwide. From lush tropical forests to sandy beaches and bustling city life, there is something for everyone here!
Head to Waikiki Beach and visit the famous Diamond Head crater or view the gorgeous Honolulu skyline. Other attractions include snorkeling, exploring historical landmarks, and much more.
Let’s dive into the best attractions Honolulu has to offer:
Visit the USS Arizona Memorial
The USS Arizona Memorial is a must-see attraction in the state of Hawaii. Located at Pearl Harbor in Honolulu, it is a tribute to more than 1,500 individuals who died on December 7, 1941, during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. Designed by architect Alfred Preis, the Memorial was opened to the public in 1962 and currently receives over two million visitors annually.
The Memorial spans the 184-foot USS Arizona wreckage, which lies submerged beneath deep waters and serves as a grave site for many of its crew members who remain entombed within her hull. The interior walls are inscribed with their names so they are honored and remembered by future generations. Building visitors are invited to honor these fallen heroes by observing a moment of silence on entering or exiting the Memorial in their memory.
In addition to honoring those lost at sea, visitors can appreciate an ever-growing collection of artifacts salvaged from the wreck before it was declared part of a National Historic Landmark in 1989. Audio-visual programs take place throughout various parts of the Memorial on weekdays, with guided cultural experiences offered every day as scheduled:
- Audio-visual programs
- Guided cultural experiences
Explore the Waikiki Beach
Nothing compares to a day of sun, sand, and surf on Waikiki Beach. The world-famous beach is located on the South Shore of Honolulu and is a great place for beginning and expert swimmers, surfers, and bodyboarders.
If you’re ready to take your beach-going experience to the next level, don’t miss out on parasailing or exploring the colorful coral reefs home to various tropical fish up close.
Malibu’s Surf & Sports School offers surf lessons seven days a week, so any day can be an adventure while learning in shallow waters with lifeguard-certified instructors.
While exploring Waikiki Beach, enjoy popular water activities like snorkeling at Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve or stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) inside the Diamond Head crater. Both experienced swimmers and those new to this aquatic sport will find something special here in Honolulu along Waikiki Beach.
Visit the Honolulu Zoo
The Honolulu Zoo is one of the top attractions in Honolulu, United States. Located near Kapiolani Park, this attraction offers an up close and personal look at over 800 animals worldwide. From tiger cubs to sea lions, there’s something for everyone. The zoo is also home to some rare and endangered species, such as the Red Wolf and Bengal Tiger.
The zoo offers daily animal feedings and educational experiences with zookeepers throughout the day – so visitors can learn more about the many species that make up this unique wildlife park. Everyday experiences vary, yet provide hands-on interaction with creatures, including a giraffe feeding session or meet a meerkat experience where you can get within inches of these curious creatures during your enchanted zoo adventure.
Four different environments are showcased at the Honolulu Zoo; African Savannah, Asian Tropics, South Pacific Islands, and Koolau Range Township. The zoo also features an Aquarium with fascinating displays about ocean life and animal conservation worldwide. Other amenities include a Café Marketplace where visitors can find food, snacks, or souvenirs to take home from their visit – all while learning lessons in conservation along the way!
Activities
Honolulu in the United States is full of things to do. Some activities suit all travelers, from sightseeing to hiking to beach hopping.
This section will discuss some of Honolulu’s most popular activities and attractions and give tips for maximizing your time there.
Take a Surf Lesson
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, Honolulu and its stunning beaches offer the perfect setting for enjoying the waves. So pick up a surfboard and let expert instructors show you the ropes. In no time, you will effortlessly be gliding over gentle ocean waves.
Start by placing yourself on the beach in Oahu, where many surf schools offer lessons. Beginners can start with basic water safety instructions, followed by balance and paddling techniques, before gradually progressing to wave riding techniques. Experienced surfers can benefit from techniques to improve their skills while exploring Honolulu’s world-class waves!
Choose one of the many surf camp packages available to enjoy a memorable experience on the ocean. It will surely be an unforgettable holiday adventure with top-notch equipment and a friendly atmosphere of instruction and camaraderie!
Go for a Hike in Diamond Head
Diamond Head is a volcanic tuff cone on the eastern side of Waikiki and has provided locals and tourists alike with unparalleled views since ancient times. Located within a Hawaii State Monument, it provides hiking trails throughout its 222-acre grounds allowing visitors to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Honolulu from up high.
While it may not seem much from a distance, you’ll be glad you made the short but steep climb once you reach the top. The most popular route begins at an elevation of about 150 feet. Next, it takes you through a 75-yard tunnel before starting your ascent at switchback trails carved into the side of the mountain, after which you will climb to the summit where two observation points await. One is an enclosed observation platform to look out over Honolulu. At the same time, the other provides an even more fantastic 360-degree view using large wall openings that allow access to breathtaking scenery populated with lush vegetation and wild animals – dolphins swimming far beyond in Pacific waters as eagles soar high above them!
On your way back down from Diamond Head – usually following a different path than that which took you up – take time to pause for moments along any of its many scenic rest stops or benches offering incredible views far beyond Waikiki towards Oahu’s southeast shoreline.
Go on a Snorkeling Tour
If you’re visiting Honolulu, United States, a great activity is to go on a snorkeling tour. Snorkeling is a unique way to explore the sea! In addition, you will get to observe tropical and local sealife in their natural environment, which you may never experience again!
Snorkeling tours in Honolulu usually start early in the morning so that you can be surrounded by calm seas, making it ideal for your exploration. You will witness colorful reefs, vibrant coral beds, and local fish species such as parrotfish, clownfish, butterflyfish, and so much more. You can discover these beautiful specimens; some tours offer excellent instructors to teach you about their ecosystems and more.
If this sounds like something that interests you, then head over to any local snorkeling tour operator in Honolulu. They will provide you with all the necessary equipment, including wetsuits, masks, fins, and other safety gear. They will also guide which areas of Honolulu have the best marine life diversity or special sights that cannot be overlooked! So hop on board your snorkeling tour – what are you waiting for?
Shopping
When shopping in the beautiful city of Honolulu, the possibilities are endless. With a rich selection of clothing stores, art galleries, jewelry stores, and souvenir shops, Honolulu has plenty of options for shoppers to explore. Here we will outline some of the best shopping hotspots in Honolulu, United States:
Visit the Ala Moana Center
The Ala Moana Center is a vibrant, exciting shopping mall just minutes from Waikiki in Honolulu, Hawaii. It’s the largest mall in the world, featuring over 290 stores and restaurants, plus plenty of entertainment, including a large movie theater complex.
You’ll find it here at Ala Moana – clothes, shoes, jewelry, or food- no matter what you want. International brands such as Gucci and Hermes share space with popular American apparel stores like Forever 21 and Gap. Not only can shoppers find designer items at the mall’s well-stocked luxury departments stores like Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom, but budget-minded individuals can also find great deals at specialty outlets like Banana Republic Factory Store and Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th.
Shoppers who need a break from the hustle-bustle of shopping can enjoy a variety of eateries featuring cuisines from around the world – there’s something for every taste! Delicious bakery selections, fast food favorites, and exciting sit-down restaurant experiences exist. And when you need to take a break from walking around, catch a movie in one of their 14 theaters or visit the Waikiki Beach Walk Entertainment Complex, which features live music performances daily.
The Ala Moana Center is open seven days a week – Sunday through Thursday 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM; Friday & Saturday 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM; – so visit to experience one of Honolulu’s premier shopping destinations!
Shop at the International Market Place
The International Market Place in Honolulu is a vibrant shopping destination in the heart of Waikiki. It is an ideal location to find unique products and souvenirs, featuring over 50 shops and stores in a tropical setting with waterfalls and gardens surrounding the area.
Here, shoppers can find Hawaiian aloha wear, jewelry, hand-crafted works of art made locally and from around the world, home decor, gifts for all occasions, apparel for men, women, and children of all ages, plus an array of name brands and popular stores including MAC Cosmetics & Specialty Fragrance Retailer Leis Lani; as well as fine dining restaurants.
With its inviting atmosphere that blends past and present with an abundance of choices from exclusive fashion boutiques to contemporary footwear stores, the International Market Place offers something for everyone.
Check out the Royal Hawaiian Center
The Royal Hawaiian Center is a one-stop shopping extravaganza in Waikiki, Honolulu. Featuring over 30 stores, seven restaurants, and an art gallery, this exciting shopping destination offers everything from luxury boutiques and clothing stores to home décor and souvenir shops. Dating back to 1927, the Royal Hawaiian Center is the perfect place to find something special that you can only get in Honolulu!
This famous shopping complex features four levels of retail space, offering the latest trends in fashion, accessories, and souvenirs. Global retailers include Michael Kors, Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th, Ferrari Store Hawaii, and more. Additionally, six international dining establishments are serving delicious cuisines, such as Japanese noodles, Thai-style shrimp, and desserts fit for royalty! It is also a great place to experience traditional performances, such as catchy hula shows by dancers in native Hawaiian grass skirts or evocative poetry readings delivered by talented local performers.
At the Royal Hawaiian Center, you’ll find all your shopping needs to be taken care of with ease. Whether looking for quality clothing or gifts for loved ones back home, spending time at this multi-level mall ensures a memorable experience!
Nightlife
Honolulu is bursting with energy and full of fantastic nightlife destinations. Honolulu has something for everyone, from the swanky bars and clubs in Waikiki to hidden gems off the beaten path. So whether you’re looking for a lively night out with friends or a romantic evening for two, Honolulu has plenty of options.
Let’s explore what exciting nightlife Honolulu has to offer:
Go to a Luau
A luau is a traditional Hawaiian feast accompanied by entertainment and other activities. Many luau events are held at beachside locations, drawing crowds with fire dancers, live music, and local cuisine. The pork called kalua is the highlight of a luau – it’s cooked in an underground oven in the sand called an imu.
Other dishes often served at luaus include:
- Squid lū‘au (stewed taro leaves)
- Poi (mashed taro root)
- Roasted pineapple
- Chicken long rice (made with cellophane noodles)
- Haupia (coconut pudding)
Participating in a luau is one of the most exciting things to do in Honolulu after dark. You can find different events happening daily, each providing its unique flavor of Hawaiian culture.
Visit a Tiki Bar
If you’re looking for a truly unique experience, visiting a traditional tiki bar in Honolulu is the perfect activity. These Polynesian-inspired bars specialize in serving classic tiki cocktails, like the Mai Tai and Blue Hawaii, as well as island-influenced bar food.
While some of these bars are modern and formal, others provide a more relaxed atmosphere that lets visitors kick back and truly enjoy Hawaiian hospitality. With their fun décor, tropical spirit, vibrant energy, and great cocktails – visiting a tiki bar will surely be an unforgettable evening!
Listen to Live Music
Honolulu is an excellent place for music lovers. There are many venues to choose from depending on your taste in genre. You can find it all here, from reggae to punk rock and jazz!
If you want to listen to Hawaiian music, many places provide live entertainment with traditional instruments and singers. This type of venue usually requires a cover charge, but the experience is worth it as it’s an authentic way to appreciate the local culture and its musical talents.
Other popular spots in Honolulu have live music every night, with multiple bands playing different genres. Most places don’t just serve drinks: they also offer food or signature dishes prepared by local restaurants and vendors. If you’re not into live performances but still want to enjoy a night out, Honolulu has some great clubs featuring DJs spinning hip-hop, EDM, house, or even classic rock tunes!
The Honolulu nightlife offers something for everyone; from traditional Hawaiian music to modern beats – you can find something that will satisfy everyone’s needs!
Food
Honolulu is a food paradise offering various dishes ranging from local Hawaiian flavors to international cuisines. So whether you’re looking for a light snack or a full-course meal, you’ll find something to satisfy your appetite in Honolulu.
From fresh seafood to sweet treats, here are some of the best places to explore when you’re in Honolulu:
Try the Local Cuisine
When visiting the city of Honolulu, you’ll have the opportunity to try a variety of local cuisine. With influences from Hawaii’s multicultural population and abundance of fresh and locally sourced ingredients, Honolulu is an excellent spot for foodies.
Take the time to experience some of these must-try dishes:
- Kalua Pork: slow-cooked pork with sea salt and wrapped in ti leaves.
- Poi: taro root pounded into a paste and then eaten fresh or fermented.
- Lau Lau: seasoned pork or fish steamed in a ti leaf wrapping.
- Haupia: traditional coconut milk pudding made with coconut milk, eggs, sugar, and cornstarch.
- Loco Moco: the classic Hawaiian dish of white rice topped with a hamburger patty, egg, and gravy.
- Spam Musubi: grilled spam slices served on top of a block of sticky rice wrapped in seaweed.
- Malasadas: Portuguese-influenced donuts made from yeast dough rolled in sugar and filled with custard cream or jelly.
- Shave ice: fine ice shavings flavored with tropical fruit syrups like coconut or passion fruit.
Visit a Seafood Restaurant
For seafood connoisseurs, Honolulu is a paradise. You can find every type of seafood imaginable, from ocean-fresh sashimi and poke to succulent seafood entrees like Mahi Mahi and California Roll. In addition, Honolulu has everything from romantic sunset dinners with waterfront views to sophisticated sushi bars and family-friendly eateries.
The Pacific Ocean waters surrounding Hawaii provide a bounty of fresh fish caught daily by local outdoor fishermen. Enjoy fresh cuisine made with locally caught seafood such as Ahi tuna, swordfish, shrimp, octopus, and more at Honolulu’s restaurants. Many restaurants also offer exciting features such as appetizers made with local farm products and seasonal specialties designed to bring out the local flavors of Hawaii through dishes such as garlic-crusted Mahi Mahi or Lobster & Shrimp Curry Spaghetti.
Besides traditional culinary varieties such as Sushi, Sashimi, and tempura, menus are not just limited to fish. Still, they offer exciting dishes that feature a variety of meats from land animals too! Be sure to visit the traditional farmers’ markets for the freshest fish when you’re in town- go early in the day for the ultimate selection! Whether you’re craving something casual or looking for something special, any seafood lover has plenty of options when visiting Honolulu.
Taste the Local Shaved Ice
Shave ice (sometimes called “shaved ice”) is a popular summertime treat in tropical Honolulu, Hawaii. It’s made by shaving a block of ice into fine, snow-like pieces and topping it with flavored syrups and other creative mix-ins. Flavors come in classic varieties like strawberry and mango and unique flavors like iced tea and coconut.
Shave ice can be enjoyed plain or topped with sweetened bean paste, crunchy mochi balls, creamy soft-serve ice cream, sweetened condensed milk, or all the above! Enjoy your shave ice on a hot summer day and the beach breezes of the famous Waikiki shoreline. It’s a great way to cool off after participating in all that Honolulu offers. Find them at food trucks around town or visit a local shave ice stand for a classic flavor experience.