Discover the 10 Best Things to Do in Honolulu: A Tourist’s Guide
I love traveling, especially to beaches and tropical places. Once, I traveled to Honolulu. It’s an amazing place and absolutely perfect for anyone who likes to relax on a beach or take a nice, peaceful drive. If you’re planning to travel to Honolulu, here are the top 10 things to do while you’re there:
1. Visit Waikiki Beach
Waikiki Beach is one of the most popular and well-known beaches in Honolulu, located on the south shore of the island of Oahu. It’s a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. The beach is bordered by a wide variety of hotels, resorts, restaurants and shops.
Waikiki is a great place to learn how to surf. There are a variety of surf schools and rental shops in the area that offer lessons and equipment rentals. If you’re more experienced, the beach is known for its gentle waves, making it a great place to catch a few waves.
Waikiki beach is also home to many beach activities like beach volleyball, paddle boarding, and outrigger canoe rides. The beach is also a great place to watch the sunset, and it’s also a popular spot for evening strolls.
Waikiki beach is also a great place to see Hawaiian wildlife, like sea turtles and monk seals, which are often seen basking on the beach.
In addition, Waikiki beach is also a great place for people watching, as it is a popular spot for both locals and tourists alike. In short, Waikiki beach offers something for everyone, making it a must-see destination for any visitor to Honolulu.
2. Take a Hike to Diamond Head
Diamond Head is a volcanic tuff cone located on the island of Oahu in Honolulu. It is a popular hiking destination known for its scenic views and historical significance.
The hike to the summit of Diamond Head is a moderate hike that takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to complete. The trail is about 1.6 miles long and is relatively steep, but it is well-maintained and easy to follow. Along the way, you will pass through a tunnel, over a spiral staircase, and through an old military bunker.
Once you reach the summit, you will be rewarded with panoramic views of the city of Honolulu, the Pacific Ocean, and the surrounding area. The views are truly spectacular and are one of the main reasons why Diamond Head is such a popular hiking destination.
Diamond Head is also rich in history, it was used as a military fortification by the United States Army in the early 20th century. The hiking trail was built by the army in 1908 as part of the coastal defense system.
Diamond Head is also part of the Diamond Head State Monument, a state park that offers a variety of activities like picnicking, hiking and bird watching.
Overall, Diamond Head is a perfect destination for visitors to Honolulu who are looking for a fun and rewarding hiking experience with a beautiful view at the end.
3. Visit Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial
Pearl Harbor is a United States naval base located on the island of Oahu in Hawaii. On December 7, 1941, the base was surprise attacked by the Imperial Japanese Navy, which led to the United States’ entry into World War II. The attack resulted in the deaths of 2,403 Americans and the destruction of much of the Pacific fleet.
The USS Arizona Memorial, located at Pearl Harbor, is a National Monument that honors the 1,177 sailors and Marines who lost their lives on the USS Arizona during the attack. Visitors to the memorial can take a boat tour to the memorial, which sits directly above the remains of the USS Arizona, and learn about the history of the attack and the events leading up to it.
The USS Missouri Memorial and the Pacific Aviation Museum Pearl Harbor are also located at the Pearl Harbor site, which provides a detailed look at the attack and the role of the United States in the Pacific Theater of World War II.
Pearl Harbor is now a National Historic Landmark and a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year to learn about the historic events that occurred there.
4. Explore the Honolulu Museum of Art
The Honolulu Museum of Art (HoMA) is a major art museum located in Honolulu, Hawaii. The museum has an extensive collection of over 50,000 works of art spanning 5,000 years, from ancient to contemporary art.
The museum’s collection includes works from many cultures and art movements including American, Asian, European, and Oceanic art. The American collection includes works by artists such as Winslow Homer, Georgia O’Keeffe and Edward Hopper, while the Asian collection features works from China, Japan, Korea, and Southeast Asia. The European collection includes works by Old Masters such as Rembrandt and Rubens, as well as Impressionists such as Monet and Degas. The Oceanic collection features art from the Pacific Islands, including Hawaii and the surrounding islands.
In addition to its permanent collection, the museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and special events throughout the year. The museum also features a number of educational programs for visitors of all ages, including tours, lectures, and workshops.
The museum is located in the heart of Honolulu and is open daily except for major holidays. Admission is free on the first Sunday of every month.
5. Take a Snorkeling or Diving Trip
Snorkeling and diving are popular activities in Honolulu, as the area offers a diverse array of marine life and clear waters. Snorkeling is a relatively easy and accessible activity that allows visitors to see the underwater world while swimming on the surface, while diving is a more advanced activity that requires specialized equipment and training.
When taking a snorkeling or diving trip, visitors can expect to see a wide variety of marine life such as tropical fish, sea turtles, manta rays, and even dolphins and whales (in season). Some popular snorkeling and diving spots include Hanauma Bay, Shark’s Cove, and the coral gardens off of Waikiki Beach.
When going for a snorkeling trip, visitors can rent or bring their own snorkeling gear. Most snorkeling trips include a guide who will lead the group and point out interesting marine life. Many snorkeling trips also include transportation to and from the snorkeling spot.
For diving, visitors will typically need to have a diving certification or take a beginner diving course before going on a dive. Diving trips often include equipment rental, transportation, and a dive guide to lead the group and ensure safety.
Some marine life in Hawaii are protected and it is illegal to touch or harm them. Visitors should also be aware of the rules and regulations of the area they are diving or snorkeling in and follow them strictly.
6. Go Shopping at the Ala Moana Center
The Ala Moana Center is a large shopping mall located in Honolulu, Hawaii. It is the largest open-air shopping center in the world and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Hawaii. The mall features over 350 stores, including high-end retailers, department stores, and local boutiques. Some of the notable stores include Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s, and Macy’s.
The mall also features a wide variety of dining options, including local Hawaiian cuisine, fast food, and fine dining restaurants. Ala Moana Center also features a food court with a wide selection of food options.
In addition to shopping and dining, the mall also features a number of entertainment options such as a movie theater and a hula show at the center stage. The mall also features a number of events and activities throughout the year such as art shows, fashion shows, and cultural events.
The mall is conveniently located in the heart of Honolulu, and is easily accessible by car, bus or foot. It is open from Monday to Saturday from 9am to 9pm, and on Sunday from 10am to 7pm. It’s a perfect place for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
7. Try Hawaiian Cuisine
Hawaiian cuisine is a unique blend of traditional Native Hawaiian, Asian, and Western influences. It features a wide variety of dishes that are influenced by the diverse cultures that have made Hawaii their home.
One popular dish is Poke, which is a type of raw fish salad that is typically made with tuna or salmon and mixed with soy sauce, sesame oil, and various seasonings. Poke is often served as an appetizer or as a topping for sushi or rice bowls.
Another popular dish is plate lunch, which is a staple of Hawaiian cuisine. Plate lunch usually includes a main dish such as Kalua Pig, which is a slow-cooked pork dish traditionally cooked in an underground oven called an imu, or chicken long rice, a dish made of chicken and vermicelli noodles in a ginger-flavored broth. It’s usually served with macaroni salad and rice.
Hawaiian cuisine is also known for its seafood, with fish such as Ahi Tuna, Mahi Mahi, and Ono being popular choices. These fish are often caught locally and prepared in a variety of ways such as grilling, sautéing, or being served raw as sushi or sashimi.
Hawaii is also famous for its tropical fruits such as pineapples, papayas, and coconuts, which are used in a variety of dishes including smoothies, juices and desserts.
Hawaiian cuisine can be found at many restaurants, cafes, and food trucks throughout Honolulu, and it’s an excellent way to experience the local culture and flavors.
8. Visit the Bishop Museum
The Bishop Museum, also known as the Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, is a natural and cultural history museum located in Honolulu, Hawaii. It is the largest museum in the state and one of the premier institutions of its kind in the Pacific. The museum’s mission is to study, preserve and share the natural and cultural history of Hawaii and the Pacific, and to provide a better understanding of the peoples of Hawaii and the Pacific islands.
The museum’s permanent exhibits include the Hawaiian Hall, which features artifacts and displays about the culture, history, and natural environment of the Hawaiian Islands. The Pacific Hall, which covers the cultures and history of other Pacific Island cultures, including Samoa, Tonga, and the Marquesas. The J. Watumull Planetarium, a state-of-the-art facility that offers visitors a chance to explore the night sky, and the Science Adventure Center, which is an interactive exhibit that allows visitors to explore the natural sciences through hands-on activities.
The Bishop Museum also has a research division which carries out scientific research on the natural and cultural resources of Hawaii and the Pacific, and has one of the largest collections of Pacific Island artifacts and natural history specimens in the world.
The museum is open Tuesday to Saturday from 9am to 5pm, and Sunday from 1pm to 5pm. Admission is charged, but there are discounts for children and students, and free admission for members and native Hawaiians.
9. Take a Sunset Sail on a Catamaran
Taking a sunset sail on a catamaran is a popular activity in Honolulu. Catamarans are large, stable sailboats that have two hulls, making them ideal for cruising on the open water.
During a sunset sail, visitors can expect to relax and take in the beautiful views of the coast and the sunset while sailing along the coast of Oahu. The sail typically lasts around 2-3 hours and includes a light refreshments and drinks. Some companies may also offer a dinner option.
Many catamaran sunset sail companies also offer the option to add activities such as snorkeling, swimming, and dolphin watching. Some companies may also offer a live music on board or a DJ to make the experience even more memorable.
It’s important to note that the weather conditions in Hawaii can change quickly, so it’s best to check the weather forecast and dress accordingly. Also, many companies require a minimum number of participants for the tour to take place, so it’s best to book in advance to ensure availability.
Overall, taking a sunset sail on a catamaran is a great way to experience the beauty of Hawaii and the ocean, and it’s a perfect activity for couples, families, and groups of friends.
10. Visit the Honolulu Zoo
The Honolulu Zoo is a 42-acre zoo located in the heart of Honolulu, Hawaii. It is the only zoo in the state and is home to over 1,230 animals representing over 300 species from around the world.
The zoo is divided into several areas, each dedicated to a different type of animal or habitat. Some of the notable exhibits include the African Savanna, which features animals such as zebras, giraffes, and lions; the Kamananui Valley, which is home to animals from Southeast Asia such as tigers, elephants, and orangutans; and the African Rain Forest, which features animals such as gorillas, chimpanzees, and lemurs.
The zoo also features several interactive exhibits such as the zoo’s keiki (children’s) petting zoo, where visitors can interact with and feed farm animals, and the zoo’s “Keiki Zoo”, a playground area designed to encourage children to learn about animals and the natural world through play.
The zoo is open daily from 9am to 4:30pm, except on Christmas and New Year’s Day. Admission is charged, but there are discounts for children and senior citizens, and free admission for members and military.
Honolulu Zoo is not only a great place to see a variety of animals, but also to learn about their behavior, habitat and conservation status. It’s a perfect place for families and animal lovers, and also a great way to spend a day in Honolulu.
