Honolulu, Hawaii is famous for surfing, dazzling beaches, and must-try cocktail shacks by the sea. It’s also renowned for being home to Waikiki Beach, Pearl Harbor, volcanic peaks, craters, and more stunning sights!
Visiting for the first time? We’ve got you covered! Here are 17 must-dos in Honolulu:
1. Snorkeling and Turtle Watching in Oahu
This Oahu snorkeling escapade will get you up close with the turtles of Waikiki! Credits: Subtle Cinematics on Unsplash
Embark on the Oahu Snorkeling and Turtle Watching Tour and journey from the gorgeous crystal-clear waters of Waikiki and delve into its depths. Keep your eyes peeled (protected by goggles!) for the sea turtles gliding across the water and other marine animals.
2. Visit the Battleship Missouri Memorial
USS Missouri (nicknamed Mighty Mo) fought in the Korean War, the Gulf War, and World War II. Credits: @lydiirussell on Instagram
Aside from being every beach bum’s paradise, Honolulu is also an important historical location. It’s home to the Battleship Missouri Memorial, commemorating the ship that triumphed through three World Wars.
See the mighty USS Missouri, learn how its crew navigated the seas, and stand at the very spot where the Japanese forces signed an armistice in WWII.
3. Explore Hollywood-famous filming locations at Kualoa Ranch
From Jurassic Park to Jumanji, explore real-life movie locations at Kualoa Ranch
Another must-do in Honolulu, Hawaii is a Kualoa Ranch tour, where you’ll feel like you’re in a movie set. This Hollywood Movie Sites Tour takes you through Kaʻaʻawa Valley, a familiar backdrop featured in dozens of TV shows and blockbuster films like Kong Skull Island.
As you ride through its green hills and mountain scenery, guides share behind-the-scenes stories, fun trivia, and exact spots where iconic scenes were filmed. Even if you’re not a movie buff, the views alone make this one of the most unforgettable experiences on Oʻahu.
4. Join the Pearl Harbour Remembered Half-Day Tour
Remnants of the USS Arizona can still be found and observed from its memorial. Credits: @adventurousanton on Instagram
Discover another historical part of Honolulu, Hawaii, on the Pearl Harbor Remembered Tour. Stop by landmarks pivotal to World War II, such as the USS Arizona Memorial, which is accessible by boat. You’ll also visit the USS Missouri battleship and other historic spots in downtown Honolulu.
5. Visit the famous Waikiki Beach
Aside from surfing where legend Duke Kahanamoku surfed, you can also swim, snorkel, and sail in Waikiki. Credits: Sung Shin on Unsplash
Right next to a bustling metropolis lies Waikiki Beach, one of the best places to visit in Honolulu. Here you can enjoy accessibility from the city and head straight to the fine sand and blue waters. You can also try catching a wave where Duke Kahanamoku, the father of modern surfing, learned to surf himself.
6. Hike the Diamond Head State Monument
Journey along the Diamond Head hiking trail for spectacular natural views. Credits: @jereksilvas on Instagram
In downtown Honolulu, Hawaii, lies a marvelous, almost unreal natural sight: Diamond Head. This broad, saucer-shaped crater is nestled on volcanic ridges around town. You can walk up the hiking trail to the Diamond Head State Monument, where breathtaking views of the city and sea await.
7. Have an immersive cultural experience at the Polynesian Cultural Center
The Polynesian Cultural Center hosts educational shows to acquaint guests with the culture. Credits: @polynesianculturalctr on Instagram
Have an immersive experience learning about the culture of Hawaii and the Pacific Islands at the Polynesian Cultural Center. The center is home to authentic cultural villages from six Pacific cultures (Hawaii, Fiji, Aotearoa (New Zealand), Samoa, Tahiti, and Tonga). You can also watch educational shows and join Hawaiian parties with music and dancing called luaus.
8. Catch a wave in Waikiki or Oahu
Catch a wave at Waikiki, one of Honolulu’s famous surf spots. Credits: Nakul on Unsplash
The waves of Honolulu, Hawaii, have both local and international appeal. Surfing is a beloved pastime of locals, while tourists from around the world come to Honolulu to catch a wave. Two notable surfing locations are Oahu, known for its world-class surf spots, and Waikiki, which is excellent for beginners.
And, no worries if you’re a total surfing beginner! They’ve got surf lessons, so you’ll be able to catch a wave on your own in no time.
9. Have amazing eats at Chinatown
Chinatown in Honolulu is home to many restaurants, noodle shops, and Asian markets. Credits: @chinatown.project on Instagram
Honolulu, Hawaii, boasts of one of the largest cultural districts in the US: Chinatown. It’s filled with restaurants and Asian markets where you can get your fix of tasty treats. Have a bite of tropical fruits from the many stands, or sample authentic Chinese food like bao and dumplings from the restaurants.
10. Be in the presence of Hawaiian royalty at ʻIolani Palace
ʻIolani Palace was the residence of Hawaiian royalty and is the only royal residence in the United States. Credits: @bripascua on Instagram
Enrich your knowledge of the culture and history of Hawaii when you visit ʻIolani Palace, home to royalty. It was built in 1882 by the last King of Hawaii: King Kalakaua. Today, the palace retains much of its grandeur and luxury, making it worth the visit.
12. Go swimming with sharks
Swim with the mighty predators of the ocean in Oahu. Credits: @hawaiisharkencounters on Instagram
The Hawaiian waters boast diverse marine life, including sharks. Daring locals and tourists step inside a sturdy steel cage that sinks beneath the sea to get close to the marine predators. Scientists also do this to observe marine life and perform underwater cinematography.
12. Visit the Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
Hanauma Bay has a pristine ecosystem, thanks to years of restoration efforts. Credits: @thaymoret on Instagram
Hanauma Bay is a unique body of water formed in an ancient volcano crater, making it a spectacular sight in Honolulu. Thanks to restoration efforts since 1990, the bay is in pristine condition with a thriving reef ecosystem, perfect for a scenic stroll.
13. Enjoy a spectacular piece of nature at Lyon Arboretum
Check out the thousands of flora at Lyon Arboretum. Credits: @uhlyonarboretum on Instagram
Another must-see in Honolulu isLyon Arboretum, an extensive botanical garden in a rainforest spanning a whopping 194 acres. It is also an active research facility that is part of the University of Hawaiʻi. Here you’ll find up to 5,000 tropical plants from Hawaii.
14. Visit Manoa Falls
Hike along the Manoa Falls Trail to see Honolulu's magnificent body of water. Credits: @_anna.christensen_ on Instagram
Within Lyon Arboretum lies Manoa Falls, a 150-foot waterfall framed by the flora of the conservatory. After checking out the various plant life at the botanical gardens, you can hike up to the stunning Manoa Falls. There’s also a designated area beneath the falls so visitors can take a dip!
15. Have a scenic walk at the Koko Crater Railway Trail
The steps of the Koko Crater Trail are reminiscent of railway tracks! Credits: @sabinamita_ on Instagram
Up for a more rigorous walk in another picturesque destination? Then conquer the 1,050 steps of the Koko Crater Railway Trail and be treated to awe-inspiring views. The hike takes about 30 minutes one way, and the steepness can be challenging, but it’s all worth it!
16. Enrich the soul at the Honolulu Museum of Art
You and the little ones can take art classes at the Honolulu Museum of Art. Credits: @honolulumuseum on Instagram
The Honolulu Museum of Art is an essential attraction for art lovers. The museum consists of various collections, artworks by notable Hawaiian artists, and around 50,000 pieces of Asian Art that highlight the impact of Asian culture on Hawaii. The museum also hosts art classes for kids and adults who want to explore their creativity!
17. Visit the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum
Also located in Pearl Harbor is the USS Bowfin, another important historical artefact of Hawaii. Credits: @explorewithkanary on Instagram
The USS Bowfin Submarine Museum is another treat for history buffs in Hawaii, located within the vicinity of Pearl Harbor, making it a great detour. It pays homage to The Bowfin, which went into battle during World War II. The museum also commemorates the 52 sunken U.S. subs and their crews.
Now that you know all about the top attractions in Honolulu, Hawaii it’s time to prepare for a grand Hawaiian holiday! Whether you explore its nature trails or cerulean waters, you’re bound to have a blast in paradise.
FAQs about must-do’s in Honolulu, Hawaii
What is Honolulu most known for?
Honolulu is best known for its world-famous beaches, rich Hawaiian history, and island scenery. Places like Waikiki Beach put the city on the global map, while cultural landmarks and local food spots give it depth beyond the sand. It’s a destination where you can surf in the morning, explore history in the afternoon, and enjoy sunset views by evening!
What are the top tourist spots in Honolulu?
Honolulu’s top tourist spots cover everything from nature to history. Hiking up Diamond Head rewards you with sweeping views of the coastline, while Pearl Harbor offers a powerful look into World War II history. These attractions balance outdoor adventure with meaningful cultural experiences, making them popular with all types of travelers.
What places in Honolulu should you not miss?
One place you shouldn’t miss is ʻIolani Palace, the only royal palace in the United States and a key symbol of Hawaiian heritage. Walking through its grand halls gives you insight into the islands’ monarchy and history.
What are the best places to visit in Honolulu in one day?
If you only have one day, start your morning outdoors and save cultural spots for later. A snorkeling stop at Hanauma Bay lets you experience Hawaii’s marine life up close, while the afternoon can be spent exploring local neighborhoods or museums. End the day back by the coast to catch a classic island sunset.
What are the must-see places in Honolulu for first-timers?
If you’re a first-time visitor, you can focus on experiences that show off Honolulu’s variety. Combining beach time, historical landmarks, and scenic viewpoints gives you a well-rounded feel of the city.
Once you’ve seen the highlights, it’s easy to branch out into food tours, island excursions, or guided activities like surfing lessons that help you experience Honolulu like a local.
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