Nestled on the diamond-shaped island of Oahu, Honolulu is home to the bulk of Hawaii's laidback populace. A hub of Polynesian culture and mouthwatering Asian cuisine, most visitors to the area divide their time between the beach and the barbecue, with a few detours along the way to scale volcanoes and take in the area's fascinating history. So, kick back, relax and soak it all in, because there's more to this Hawaiian capital than leis and cocktails.The first stop on most tourist trails of Honolulu is Waikiki Beach. Home to a variety of surfing competitions and outdoor events throughout the year, the area also boasts a host of designer clothing stores and impressive eateries.If you're more into snorkelling than surfing, head for Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve or Halona Beach, nicknamed Eternity Beach following Deborah Kerr and Burt Lancaster's roll around in the surf here in "From Here to Eternity".For those who prefer their feet on dry land, Honolulu Zoo in Kapiolani Park is well worth a visit and, from there, it isn’t far to Diamond Head , an extinct volcano that offers an easy climb for one of the best views on the island.Downtown Honolulu also has plenty to offer. Skip the city's notorious traffic by hopping on some local transport, and make your way to the iconic Aloha Tower. After lunch here, take the time for a casual stroll around the market at the Ala Moana Center and pick up some souvenirs. Of course, no trip to Ouahu can be considered complete without a visit to Pearl Harbor, scene of one of the most significant military attacks in US history. The exhibitions housed in the USS Arizona Memorial and USS Bowfin Submarine Museum offer a sobering contrast to Honolulu's otherwise sunny exterior.So, whether you're a history buff, a budding geologist, a shopper or a surfer, indeed whatever your particular passion may be, Honolulu has just the thing for you. There's a reason why 7 million people visit Hawaii each year why not take a trip to tropical paradise yourself, and see what all the fuss is about?
Honolulu Travel Guide
Visit Honolulu
Honolulu Travel Guide Video
Where to stay in Honolulu
Waikiki
Waikiki Beach Walk and Waikiki Beach are just a few worthwhile attractions to visit in Waikiki. Travellers also love the stunning beaches, island views and popular shops.
Ala Moana
If you're spending some time in Ala Moana, Ala Moana Center and Magic Island are top sights worth seeing.
Diamond Head - Kapahulu - St. Louis
If you're spending some time in Diamond Head - Kapahulu - St. Louis, Waikiki Beach and Honolulu Zoo are top sights worth seeing.
Western Honolulu
The abundant dining options and waterfront views are just a few top-rate features of the neighbourhood. Make a stop by Honolulu Harbor or Navy Exchange Mall while you're visiting, and jump aboard the metro at Hālawa / Aloha Stadium Station to get around town.
Downtown Honolulu
Unique features of Downtown Honolulu include the shopping and beaches. Make a stop by Honolulu Harbor or King Kamehameha Statue while you're exploring the area.
Eastern Honolulu
The pristine beaches and ample dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Eastern Honolulu. A stop by Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve or Kahala Beach might round out your trip.
Reviewed on 28 Oct. 2024
Reviewed on 28 Oct. 2024
Reviewed on 29 Oct. 2024
Reviewed on 27 Oct. 2024
Reviewed on 22 Sep. 2024
Reviewed on 5 Oct. 2024
Popular places to visit
Waikiki Beach
Come sample the waves and catch some rays on the white sands of the beach most synonymous with surfing and the Aloha spirit.
Ala Moana Center
You can find the perfect gifts to bring home with a trip to Ala Moana Center, a popular shopping spot in Honolulu. Discover the area's beautiful sunsets or seek out its surfing spots.
Honolulu Harbor
Explore the waterfront in Honolulu with a trip to Honolulu Harbor. Amble around the area's beaches or visit its shops.
International Market Place
You can browse for souvenirs with a trip to International Market Place, a favourite shopping spot in Honolulu. Wander the beautiful beaches or discover the area's beautiful sunsets.
Royal Hawaiian Center
You can browse for souvenirs with a trip to Royal Hawaiian Center, a favourite shopping spot in Honolulu. Stroll along the seaside or discover the area's beautiful sunsets.
Pearl Harbor
Discover where America's involvement in World War II started and ended amid the moving memorials and battleship museums of this historic harbor.
Activities
Waikiki Catamaran Cruise (Daytime & Sunset)
Full-Day Oahu Sightseeing and Local Food Tour
Waikiki Beach Glass Bottom Boat Cruise
Reviews of Honolulu
3/5 - Okay
Over rated
5/5 - Excellent
Lovely place for a holiday.
5/5 - Excellent
Great holiday destination
5/5 - Excellent
I love how vibrant and relaxing it is to stay there with loads to see and do or just do nothing but swim and relax
3/5 - Okay
This time we found it has become very upmarket, very expensive and it has lost a lot of its character.
5/5 - Excellent
Loved it amazing place will return for sure