Top 10 Things to Do in Honolulu

Top 10 Things to Do in Honolulu

Planning a trip to Honolulu? This 2026 guide covers the top 10 things to do, from iconic outdoor experiences to local attractions worth adding to your itinerary.

Use this list to compare highlights, discover what makes Honolulu unique, and find tours that match your travel style.

Honolulu, Hawaii outdoor adventure scenery

Highlights of "Honolulu"

Map preview generated from the featured coordinates for this destination.

Use the links below to open each attraction in Google Maps.

  1. 1. Explore Waikiki BeachView on map
  2. 2. Explore Diamond HeadView on map
  3. 3. Explore Iolani PalaceView on map
  4. 4. Explore Ala Moana Beach ParkView on map
  5. 5. Explore Kaka‘akoView on map
  6. 6. Explore Pearl HarborView on map
  7. 7. Explore Manoa FallsView on map
  8. 8. Explore North ShoreView on map

About Honolulu

  • Location: Honolulu is in Hawaii, United States.
  • Known for: Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head, Iolani Palace, Ala Moana Beach Park, Kaka‘ako

Top Tours

Private 45 Minute Helicopter Tour with Romantic Landing
Air Tours

Honolulu, Hawaii

Private 45 Minute Helicopter Tour with Romantic Landing

If you're looking to add to the romance of your Hawaii trip then this romantic helicopter ride is right up your alley.

5.0 (4 reviews)

From $3,240

Private Tour Oahu Circle Island - Fully Personalized Experience
Sightseeing & City Tours

Honolulu, Hawaii

Private Tour Oahu Circle Island - Fully Personalized Experience

Swap the big, crowded tour buses for a private and personalized experience of Oahu.

5.0 (91 reviews)

From $800

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Experience Departing from Oahu
Air Tours

Honolulu, Hawaii

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Experience Departing from Oahu

Get away from the Oahu buzz with this whirlwind volcano-chasing tour.

4.7 (270 reviews)

From $589.99

Oahu: 60 Min Royal Crown Helicopter Tour - Doors Off or On
Air Tours

Honolulu, Hawaii

Oahu: 60 Min Royal Crown Helicopter Tour - Doors Off or On

Explore Hawaii’s island of Oahu by air on this helicopter tour.

4.8 (805 reviews)

From $540

Pearl Harbor Complete Experience Passport

Honolulu, Hawaii

Pearl Harbor Complete Experience Passport

Visit Pearl Harbor’s most important sites without the hassle of securing separate tickets or coordinating multiple admissions.

4.7 (543 reviews)

From $225

Pearl Harbor, Dole, and Polynesian Cultural Center from Waikiki
Air Tours

Honolulu, Hawaii

Pearl Harbor, Dole, and Polynesian Cultural Center from Waikiki

See three of Oahu's most important cultural attractions in just one day with his small-group tour.

4.8 (1087 reviews)

From $199.99

Things to Do in Honolulu

  1. 1. Explore Waikiki Beach

    Waikiki is a beachfront neighborhood of Honolulu on Oʻahu’s south shore that developed from wetlands and royal retreat lands into Hawaii’s best-known resort district during the 20th century. The shoreline includes multiple named beaches along a broad coastal strip fronting hotels, parks, and historic surf breaks. Tourism growth accelerated after the opening of the Ala Wai Canal in 1928, a drainage project that reshaped local hydrology and enabled urban development inland of the beach. Waikiki is also central to modern surf history, associated with figures such as Duke Kahanamoku in the early 1900s. Today the area combines high-density hospitality infrastructure with public shoreline access and major cultural events.

    Source: Wikipedia
  2. 2. Explore Diamond Head

    Diamond Head, called Lēʻahi in Hawaiian, is a volcanic tuff cone on the eastern edge of Waikiki formed about 300,000 years ago during Honolulu’s volcanic series. The crater rises roughly 760 feet above sea level and became a strategic U.S. military lookout in the early 20th century, with fire-control stations and bunkers still visible. The state monument includes a trail to the summit through switchbacks, tunnels, and old fortification structures. Its English name dates to 19th-century sailors who mistook calcite crystals for diamonds. Diamond Head State Monument is one of Hawaii’s most recognizable geologic landmarks and provides a clear example of Oʻahu’s volcanic origin and coastal topography.

    Source: Wikipedia
  3. 3. Explore Iolani Palace

    ʻIolani Palace in downtown Honolulu was completed in 1882 under King Kalākaua and served as the official royal residence of the Hawaiian Kingdom. It is the only formal royal palace on U.S. soil and includes architectural features influenced by Florentine and American styles, plus early electrical and communication systems for its era. After the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom in 1893, the building was used as a government capitol for the Republic, Territory, and State of Hawaii. Restoration work in the 20th century returned many rooms to their late-19th-century appearance, and the palace reopened as a museum in 1978. The site is central to Hawaiian political history and sovereignty memory.

    Source: Wikipedia
  4. 4. Explore Ala Moana Beach Park

    Ala Moana Beach Park is a 100-acre public park between Waikiki and downtown Honolulu, created on reclaimed coastal land in the 1930s and 1940s. The shoreline includes a protected swimming area behind an offshore reef and a long sandy beach facing the south coast of Oʻahu. The park’s name means “path to the sea,” and the site became a major urban recreation space as Honolulu expanded after World War II. Facilities include courts, open lawns, a promenade, and access near Ala Wai Boat Harbor and Ala Moana Center. Its location and scale make it one of the most heavily used municipal parks in Hawaii for daily exercise, community gatherings, and ocean access. Park construction began in the 1930s, and major postwar expansion continued through the 1950s. The park is commonly listed at about 100 acres with roughly a half-mile protected swimming shoreline.

    Source: Wikipedia
  5. 5. Explore Kaka‘ako

    Kakaʻako is a Honolulu district between downtown and Waikiki that historically contained salt pans, fishing areas, and later light-industrial and warehouse uses. In recent decades, large redevelopment efforts led by the Hawaii Community Development Authority transformed much of the area into mixed-use residential and commercial neighborhoods. The district includes Kakaʻako Waterfront Park, opened in 1992 on a former landfill site, and a growing concentration of public murals and cultural events. Street grids such as Auahi, Cooke, and Keawe now combine new high-rise construction with older industrial buildings. Kakaʻako’s ongoing change illustrates contemporary land-use pressure in urban Honolulu and the policy debates around housing supply, public shoreline access, and local identity. Kakaʻako Waterfront Park opened in 1992, and major high-rise redevelopment accelerated after 2010.

    Source: Wikipedia
  6. 6. Explore Pearl Harbor

    Pearl Harbor is a natural lagoon harbor on Oʻahu’s south coast west of Honolulu and has been a major U.S. naval base since the late 19th century. The attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, by the Imperial Japanese Navy brought the United States into World War II and remains one of the most consequential events in modern Pacific history. Today Joint Base Pearl Harbor–Hickam operates on the harbor, while memorial sites such as the USS Arizona Memorial and USS Missouri attract visitors. The harbor’s geography, dredged channels, and protected waters made it strategically important for fleet operations. Pearl Harbor links military history, memorial culture, and active defense infrastructure in Hawaii.

    Source: Wikipedia
  7. 7. Explore Manoa Falls

    Mānoa Falls is a waterfall in the Mānoa Valley uplands of Oʻahu, with a drop commonly cited at about 150 feet depending on seasonal flow. The trail to the falls passes through tropical rainforest with high annual rainfall fed by trade-wind moisture against the Koʻolau Range. The valley has long been significant in Hawaiian history and agriculture due to reliable water and fertile soils. Modern access is managed through designated paths and watershed protections because steep terrain and frequent mud create erosion and safety concerns. As part of Honolulu’s inland mountain landscape, Mānoa Falls contrasts with coastal Waikiki by highlighting the island’s rapid elevation changes and wet forest ecosystems. The waterfall height is commonly cited at about 150 feet, and trail access has been managed in modern form since the 20th century.

    Source: Wikipedia
  8. 8. Explore North Shore

    Oʻahu’s North Shore refers to the island’s northern coastal region, including communities such as Haleʻiwa, Sunset Beach, Waimea, and Kahuku. The area is globally known for large winter surf generated by North Pacific swells, with breaks such as Banzai Pipeline hosting major professional competitions. Historically, the region included plantation-era agriculture, especially pineapple and sugar operations, before shifting toward tourism, small-town services, and ocean sports economies. Waimea Bay and nearby heiau sites also hold deep cultural significance in Native Hawaiian history. Compared with urban Honolulu, the North Shore has lower-density development and a more rural road network centered on Kamehameha Highway. Seasonal wave cycles define much of its annual rhythm. The region includes communities spread along roughly 20 miles of coastline, and Pipeline events are held each winter season from November to February. Haleʻiwa sits near the western gateway, and Waimea Bay is about 9 miles east along Kamehameha Highway.

    Source: Wikipedia

Best time to visit

Shoulder seasons are best for comfort and flexibility

  • Spring and fall typically offer the easiest weather for walking and tours.
  • Summer can be busy; reserve major attractions and timed entries early.
  • Winter trips can provide better rates and lighter midday crowds in many districts.

Travel tips

  • Use early starts for major sights and popular viewpoints.
  • Pre-book top attractions and guided activities during peak months.
  • Keep one flexible block each day for weather or traffic changes.
  • Stay close to transit hubs if you want to minimize transfer time.

FAQs about Honolulu

How many days are ideal for Honolulu?

Three to four days gives enough time for major attractions and one outdoor-focused day.

Is Honolulu good for outdoor travelers?

Yes. Most itineraries can combine city highlights with nearby hiking, water, or scenic touring options.

Should I book tours in advance?

For top-rated tours and peak travel weeks, advance booking is strongly recommended.

Learn More About Honolulu

Best Tours in Honolulu

Private 45 Minute Helicopter Tour with Romantic Landing
Air Tours

Honolulu, Hawaii

Private 45 Minute Helicopter Tour with Romantic Landing

If you're looking to add to the romance of your Hawaii trip then this romantic helicopter ride is right up your alley.

5.0 (4 reviews)

From $3,240

Private Tour Oahu Circle Island - Fully Personalized Experience
Sightseeing & City Tours

Honolulu, Hawaii

Private Tour Oahu Circle Island - Fully Personalized Experience

Swap the big, crowded tour buses for a private and personalized experience of Oahu.

5.0 (91 reviews)

From $800

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Experience Departing from Oahu
Air Tours

Honolulu, Hawaii

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Experience Departing from Oahu

Get away from the Oahu buzz with this whirlwind volcano-chasing tour.

4.7 (270 reviews)

From $589.99

Oahu: 60 Min Royal Crown Helicopter Tour - Doors Off or On
Air Tours

Honolulu, Hawaii

Oahu: 60 Min Royal Crown Helicopter Tour - Doors Off or On

Explore Hawaii’s island of Oahu by air on this helicopter tour.

4.8 (805 reviews)

From $540

Pearl Harbor Complete Experience Passport

Honolulu, Hawaii

Pearl Harbor Complete Experience Passport

Visit Pearl Harbor’s most important sites without the hassle of securing separate tickets or coordinating multiple admissions.

4.7 (543 reviews)

From $225

Pearl Harbor, Dole, and Polynesian Cultural Center from Waikiki
Air Tours

Honolulu, Hawaii

Pearl Harbor, Dole, and Polynesian Cultural Center from Waikiki

See three of Oahu's most important cultural attractions in just one day with his small-group tour.

4.8 (1087 reviews)

From $199.99

Private Surf Lessons in Honolulu

Honolulu, Hawaii

Private Surf Lessons in Honolulu

Hawaii is the perfect to learn to surf, and the perfect *way* is with a pro who's chased waves for 18 years on the world circuit.

4.8 (83 reviews)

From $199

Oahu: Chief's Luau Admission Including Transfers

Honolulu, Hawaii

Oahu: Chief's Luau Admission Including Transfers

Immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture with a visit to a traditional luau.

4.6 (506 reviews)

From $178

North Shore day,Waterfalls and Turtles Tour
Hiking

Honolulu, Hawaii

North Shore day,Waterfalls and Turtles Tour

Depart from Honolulu on a guided Oahu North Shore day trip that pairs island history with Waimea Valley's rainforest waterfall swim.

5.0 (8 reviews)

From $150

Oahu Small-Group Circle Island Tour with Turtle Snorkeling
Water Sports

Honolulu, Hawaii

Oahu Small-Group Circle Island Tour with Turtle Snorkeling

Explore Oahu on this full-day minibus tour with a small group and a local guide.

4.9 (5266 reviews)

From $149

Pearl Harbor: USS Arizona Memorial and Battleship Missouri Tour

Honolulu, Hawaii

Pearl Harbor: USS Arizona Memorial and Battleship Missouri Tour

Deepen your understanding of World War II and the attack on Pearl Harbor with this seamless and convenient tour.

4.5 (173 reviews)

From $149

Oahu Deluxe Grand Circle Island Tour

Honolulu, Hawaii

Oahu Deluxe Grand Circle Island Tour

Circle the Island of Oahu by coach, enjoying ocean views, rugged mountains, and fascinating history during this full-day tour.

4.6 (2217 reviews)

From $145.55

Deluxe Arizona Memorial and USS Missouri Battleship Tour

Honolulu, Hawaii

Deluxe Arizona Memorial and USS Missouri Battleship Tour

Visit Pearl Harbor, the USS Arizona Memorial, and the Battleship Missouri Memorial (aka the “Mighty MO”) on this small-group tour.

4.5 (149 reviews)

From $139

Oahu: Ka Moana Lūʻau at Aloha Tower – Oceanfront Luau Show

Honolulu, Hawaii

Oahu: Ka Moana Lūʻau at Aloha Tower – Oceanfront Luau Show

Experience a traditional Hawaiian Luau in a scenic location.

4.1 (1526 reviews)

From $135.08

Oahu: Germaine's Luau

Honolulu, Hawaii

Oahu: Germaine's Luau

Enjoy a taste of Hawaiian culture when you book this luau dinner experience in Kapolei.

4.3 (821 reviews)

From $128

Premium Oahu Circle Island Tour – Small Group, No Crowds
Sightseeing & City Tours

Honolulu, Hawaii

Premium Oahu Circle Island Tour – Small Group, No Crowds

This small-group circle-island tour of Oahu is ideal for those who want to see a lot in a short time.

4.8 (1803 reviews)

From $115

Oahu: Grand Tour Around Island with Snorkeling
Water Sports

Honolulu, Hawaii

Oahu: Grand Tour Around Island with Snorkeling

With just one day, you can see 16 of Oahu’s greatest sights and still have time for snorkeling—if you hop on this tour.

4.8 (10915 reviews)

From $109

'Auana by Cirque du Soleil at the Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel

Honolulu, Hawaii

'Auana by Cirque du Soleil at the Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel

A new dawn of live entertainment rises in ʻAuana by Cirque du Soleil – a Hawai‘i-inspired production featuring a cast of powerful acrobats, hilarious…

4.9 (729 reviews)

From $106.59

Waikiki Luau Buffet with Optional Rock-A-Hula Show Ticket

Honolulu, Hawaii

Waikiki Luau Buffet with Optional Rock-A-Hula Show Ticket

Come experience a celebration of Hawaiian cuisine, live music, and festive hula at the Waikiki Luau.

4.4 (1709 reviews)

From $101

Scenic Full Day Circle Island Tour-Snorkeling/Breakfast/Byodo-in
Water Sports

Honolulu, Hawaii

Scenic Full Day Circle Island Tour-Snorkeling/Breakfast/Byodo-in

There are many Circle Island tours on offer in Oahu but this one delivers a small-group, crowd- and traffic-free experience.

5.0 (128 reviews)

From $100

Beachboy Valet

Honolulu, Hawaii

Beachboy Valet

Guided Beachboy valet experience in Honolulu

Burial At Sea

Honolulu, Hawaii

Burial At Sea

Guided Burial at sea experience in Honolulu

Canoe Charter
Paddle Sports

Honolulu, Hawaii

Canoe Charter

Guided Canoe charter experience in Honolulu

Canoe Surfing
Paddle Sports

Honolulu, Hawaii

Canoe Surfing

Guided Canoe surfing experience in Honolulu