Things to do · Honolulu, Hawaii, US

Things to Do in Honolulu

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Getting there
Most visitors fly into Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, which sits roughly 7 km from downtown Honolulu and is a common gateway from the U.S. mainland and Canada, often with a single layover. Smaller airports on Maui and Kauai exist but require a longer drive or inter‑island flight. A few travelers also arrive by cruise ship, docking at Honolulu’s harbor before heading inland.
Who goes
Honolulu welcomes around ten million tourists each year, drawing a mix of families, honeymooners, and adventure‑seeking backpackers. The city is busiest during the winter holidays and summer months, when the weather is warm and flights are plentiful, while September through early spring tend to be quieter, offering a more relaxed atmosphere.
Budgeting
A careful traveler can expect to spend roughly $100‑$150 (≈ $100‑$150 USD) per day on lodging, meals, and transport, whereas a comfortable stay typically runs about $200‑$300 (≈ $200‑$300 USD). Accommodations and dining are the biggest expenses; a reliable way to save is to rely on the city’s extensive bus system and enjoy affordable plate lunches at local eateries. Estimate →

  1. USS Arizona Memorial

    attraction · 4.7 rating

    A memorial at Pearl Harbor marking the sunken battleship USS Arizona and honoring service members killed in the 1941 attack. A profound historical site for reflection and learning.

  2. Diamond Head State Monument

    attraction · 4.6 rating

    An iconic volcanic tuff cone with a summit trail delivering panoramic views of Waikiki and the coastline. Travelers hike up for the sweeping vistas and the famous crater landscape.

  3. Diamond Head Summit Trail

    trail · 4.6 rating · $5

    The official 1.6-mile round-trip trail to the summit of Lēʻahi (Diamond Head), climbing 560 feet through switchbacks, stairs, a tunnel, and historic coastal-defense structures.

  4. Pearl Harbor National Memorial

    attraction · 4.7 rating

    A memorial commemorating the 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor, including the USS Arizona Memorial over the sunken battleship. Travelers visit to honor the fallen and learn WWII history.

  5. Iolani Palace

    museum · 4.6 rating · $26.95

    Official residence of Hawaii's monarchy, a restored National Historic Landmark known for its opulence and history.

  6. Honolulu Zoo

    zoo · 3.9 rating

    A zoo in Waikiki near Kapiolani Park, home to tropical and Pacific wildlife across landscaped exhibits. A popular family outing for animal encounters in an outdoor setting.

  7. Bishop Museum

    museum · 4.5 rating

    Hawaii's premier natural and cultural history museum, housing extensive collections of Hawaiian and Pacific artifacts. Travelers visit to learn about the islands' heritage and science.

  8. Aloha Tower Marketplace

    attraction · 4.1 rating

    A historic waterfront landmark and shopping-dining complex at Honolulu Harbor, centered on the 1926 Aloha Tower. Travelers visit for harbor views, shops, and casual waterside dining.

  9. Koko Crater Railway Trailhead

    trail

    A very steep climb on more than 1,000 former railway ties to panoramic southeast Oʻahu views; go early, carry water, and check current city access notices.

  10. Fort DeRussy Beach

    beach · 4.6 rating

    Broad Waikīkī beach section beside Fort DeRussy Beach Park, convenient for swimming, strolling, and Friday fireworks.

  11. Waikiki Aquarium

    aquarium · 3.9 rating

    A public aquarium on the Waikiki shoreline showcasing Pacific marine life, including Hawaiian reef species and monk seals. A family-friendly stop for learning about ocean ecosystems.

  12. Honolulu Museum of Art (HoMA)

    museum · 4.6 rating · $25

    Hawaii's largest art museum, with a broad collection spanning Asian, European, and Pacific art displayed in courtyards and galleries. A top cultural destination for art lovers in Honolulu.

  13. Kapiʻolani Regional Park

    park · 4.4 rating

    Honolulu's largest and oldest public park, located near Diamond Head and Waikiki, with expansive lawns, tennis courts, and event spaces. Travelers visit to relax, jog, and attend community events.

  14. Magic Island

    attraction · 4.5 rating

    A man-made peninsula and recreation area at Ala Moana Regional Park in Honolulu, featuring a lagoon, walking paths, and open green space. Travelers come for swimming, picnicking, and sunset views over the ocean.

  15. Kūhiō Beach

    beach · 4.4 rating

    Central Waikīkī beach section protected by breakwalls, with shallow water that suits families and beginner swimmers.

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