Honolulu
United States of America · Hawaii · 5 m
Description
Honolulu is the vibrant capital of the U.S. state of Hawaii and the political, economic, and cultural center of the archipelago. The city is known for the palm-fringed beaches of Waikiki (Waikīkī), its famous surf, and the distinctive volcanic crater of Lēʻahi (Diamond Head), as well as its diverse blend of Hawaiian, Polynesian, Asian, and Western influences. Honolulu combines a tropical island atmosphere with urban life, history, art, cuisine, and a wide range of outdoor activities. Historic landmarks such as ʻIolani Palace and nearby Pearl Harbor reflect Hawaii’s eventful past. As the main gateway to the Hawaiian Islands, Honolulu is also a starting point for travelers from around the world to explore Oahu’s (Oʻahu) varied coastlines, lush valleys, and legendary surfing beaches.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 4 to 10 days (optimal 6 days)
Travel season
Best time to visit: April – June or September – October
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Waikiki Beach
- Diamond Head (Leahi)
- Pearl Harbor & USS Arizona Memorial
- Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
- North Shore & Big-Wave Surfing(Day trip)
- Iolani Palace
- Kualoa Ranch(Day trip)
- Lanikai Beach(Day trip)
- Manoa Falls
- Nuuanu Pali Lookout
- Polynesian Cultural Center(Day trip)
- Waimea Bay(Day trip)
- Banzai Pipeline (Ehukai Beach)(Day trip)
- Sunset Beach(Day trip)
- Waimea Valley & Waimea Falls(Day trip)
- Haleiwa(Day trip)
- Byodo-In Temple(Day trip)
- Kailua Beach(Day trip)
- Makapuu Point Lighthouse Trail
- Koko Crater Railway Trail
- Dole Plantation(Day trip)
- Bishop Museum
- Downtown Honolulu & Chinatown
- King Kamehameha I Statue
- Aliiolani Hale
- Kawaiahao Church
- Hawaii State Capitol
- National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific (Punchbowl)
- Honolulu Museum of Art
- Shangri La Museum of Islamic Art, Culture & Design
- Kapiolani Park
- Duke Kahanamoku Statue
- Waikiki Surfing
- Waikiki Sunset Catamaran Cruise
- Ala Moana Beach Park
- Ala Moana Center
- Magic Island
- Tantalus Lookout (Puu Ualakaa)
- Lyon Arboretum
- Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden(Day trip)
- Koko Head & Hanauma Bay Coastal Views
- Halona Blowhole
- Sandy Beach
- Makapuu Beach
- Waimanalo Beach(Day trip)
- Mokulua Islands(Day trip)
- Kaneohe Bay(Day trip)
- Chinaman's Hat (Mokolii)(Day trip)
- Shark's Cove(Day trip)
- Turtle Bay(Day trip)
- Kaena Point(Day trip)
- Oahu Scenic Circle Island Drive(Day trip)
- Hawaiian Food & Poke
- North Shore Shrimp Trucks(Day trip)
- Haleiwa Shave Ice(Day trip)
Getting there
- Airports:
- HNL
- Train stations:
- Kahauiki / Middle Street–Kalihi Transit Center, Āhua / Lagoon Drive, Lelepaua / Daniel K. Inouye International Airport
- Seaport:
- Reachable by ship or ferry