You don't have to leave America to find white sand beaches, volcanoes, and active Polynesian culture — you only have to leave the continental United States. Hawaii offers a wildly different travel experience due to its island excursions, art, Hawaiian food, and a tropical backdrop. As the largest city and capital of Hawaii, Honolulu is a popular destination that’s earned its place as a common bucket list item. Still, no visit to Oahu would be complete without seeing all the island has to offer. Read the following list for things to do in Honolulu, a bustling island metropolis.
Photos don’t do the immaculate landscapes of Honolulu and greater Oahu justice. Visit any of the island’s attractions, there is a lot of fun to be had in Honolulu and around the island.
The best activities near Honolulu include:
Seeing the World War II valor in the Pacific National Monument
Visiting Diamond Head State Monument, a volcanic tuff on Oahu
Taking a seaside photo with a scenic background at Waikiki Beach
With so many tourist attractions around Honolulu to explore, there’s plenty to pack your trip with. Consider booking excursions to iconic waterfalls or walk around downtown to learn more about Honolulu’s storied past.
Popular attractions near Honolulu include:
Visiting ‘Iolani Palace, the residence of historic Hawaiian royalty
Boarding the USS Missouri Battleship Memorial
Visiting Aloha Tower, a lighthouse considered a Hawaiian landmark
Leaving space in your itinerary to explore Honolulu is essential. Enjoying it’s natural beauty and lively culture are the best ways to experience the island like a local. Try touring coffee farms, finding a picnic spot, or going off-the-beaten-path.
Exciting activities near Honolulu include:
Touring of Hawaii State Capitol Building
Scaling the walls of Arch Project Climbing Center
Going on a self-guided tour at Green World Coffee Farm
Honolulu’s inviting atmosphere ensures that no time is wasted in this bustling island metropolis. Whether you want to sing karaoke or go on a nightly excursion, there’s always something to do at night in Honolulu.
Nighttime activities near Honolulu include:
Going on Nocturnal Adventures Hawaii’s stand-up paddle board at sunset
Singing your heart out with karaoke at Nocturna Lounge
Grouping up for trivia night at Osoyami Bar and Grill
If you’re off to Hawaii on a family vacation, you’ll be excited to find plenty of fun things to do with the kids. You can even stay in the city to get your fill of adventure — go to the aquarium, botanical gardens, or water parks together.
Family-friendly attractions near Honolulu include:
Planning a marine history lesson at Waikiki Aquarium
Seeing the sea creatures at Sea Life Park Hawaii
Exploring island natural habitats at Foster Botanical Garden
Heading for a day trip to Wet’n’Wild Water Park Hawaii
See the Oahu landscape from a different perspective. Arts, culture, dessert-making, and power yoga are just a few indoor attractions to experience on the island.
Things to do indoors near Honolulu include:
Going on a self-guided tour through Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum
Seeing contemporary art at Honolulu Museum of Art
Seeing authentic Hawaiian art pieces at Hawaii State Art Museum
Taking a Power Yoga Acroyoga class
Taking a Madre Chocolate Bean-to-Bar chocolate making class
There’s plenty of sightseeing to do in Honolulu and Oahu. Whether you want to dive under the shallow waters or go find a hidden waterfall, a lot of your time in here will be spent outdoors.
Best outdoor activities in Honolulu include:
Snorkeling in Hanauma Bay
Finding a panoramic view at Nu’uanu Pali Lookout
Seeing the iconic waterfalls at Manoa Falls
Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden, open daily and free of charge
Kailua Beach Park, which offers clear water, fine sand, and accessible aquatic activities