Things to do in Honolulu

What are the best things to do in Honolulu?

If you’re new to Honolulu, the perfect trio of activities include beach days, landmark hikes, and history-and-culture stops.

Start with Waikīkī Beach for an easy-going swim-and-sun day right in the city. Then tackle the Diamond Head State Monument, an iconic hike through historic tunnels and bunkers with panoramic views over Honolulu and the ocean. Finally, make time for the Pearl Harbor National Memorial to visit the USS Arizona Memorial, a poignant must-do experience.

Things to do in Honolulu for adults

Hike Diamond Head for the “postcard” view

One of the best things to do in Honolulu is to make the 1.5 to 2-hour round trip to its signature viewpoint, Diamond Head. This energetic 1.6-mile hike to the top of a dormant volcanic tuff cone rewards visitors with a panoramic reveal of Waikīkī and the coastline. En route, pass through historic tunnels and bunkers, before reaching the sweeping views at the summit. Tip: For entry, secure your reservation and optional parking up to 30 days in advance, via Hawai‘i State Parks.

Go Surfing

Among the most exciting things to do in Honolulu, surfing stands out as a must for adults looking to experience the city’s famous beach culture. With warm Pacific waters, iconic waves, and a relaxed coastal atmosphere, Honolulu is a dream destination for surfers of all levels. In Waikīkī, spots like Canoes and Queens are perfect for long, easy rides and a classic surf experience, while more experienced surfers can head to Ala Moana Bowls for faster, more powerful waves. Whether you are booking your first lesson or paddling out in search of a challenge, surfing is one of the most unforgettable things to do in Honolulu.

Top tip: Book an early morning surf session for calmer conditions and fewer crowds, especially if you are still building confidence on the waves.

Visit Pearl Harbor & the USS Arizona Memorial

One of the most meaningful things to do in Honolulu for adults and older kids is to visit Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial. Offering a deeply solemn, historical, and educational experience, the site includes the National Park Service-run memorial, as well as several independently operated, paid attractions on the surrounding "Historic Sites" campus.

If it’s your first time here, the Pearl Harbour Visitor Center is your essential go-to, for understanding the attack of Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941 and its lasting global impact. Immerse yourselves in the engaging exhibits, educational films, and reflective memorial spaces.

Tip: Tickets are free but required for the USS Arizona Memorial program. Plan ahead and build in plenty of time for the museums and exhibits on-site, so your excursion doesn’t feel rushed.

Snorkel Hanauma Bay

Hanauma Bay is Honolulu’s headline snorkel spot. As a dedicated "Marine Life Conservation District", it's carefully managed to protect the reef. These conservation efforts mean snorkelers can expect to see a “real-life aquarium” of reef life - including Hawaiian green sea turtles, tropical fish and thriving coral gardens. Snorkelers will often encounter Hawaiian monk seals too!

Tip: For the best time of year to go snorkeling, the best conditions are in spring (April–May). The water visibility is usually clearer then and crowds are lighter than in peak summer. All visitors are required to watch a short reef-safety education video, before heading down to the beach.

Shop and dine at the Ala Moana Center

If you want an easy “mix of everything” afternoon - shopping, eateries and people-watching, then a trip to the Ala Moana Center in Honolulu is a must! As the world’s largest open-air shopping center, shopaholics will find no less than 350+ shops to dive into. When feet begin to tire, there are 160+ dining options to choose from.

Things to do in Honolulu for families

Take a trip to Honolulu Zoo

Spanning a 42 acre site next to Waikīkī, Honolulu Zoo offers the perfect way for families to enjoy a "wild at heart" morning or afternoon, during their vacation. Heavily conservation-minded, Honolulu focuses on Pacific Island ecosystems, endangered species breeding, and supporting global initiatives, like the Asian Elephant SAFE program.

Little ones can start in the Children’s Zoo (Keiki Zoo), where they can get up close to friendly farm favourites in the petting-zoo area. When they need to burn off energy, there’s an on-site playground to reset before heading to the African Savanna, a huge crowd-pleaser where kids can spot giraffes and zebras.

Tip: For something extra special, families can book the zoo’s Twilight Tours on Friday and Saturday evenings. This guided after-hours walk comes as many animals are winding down, or becoming more active.

Visit the Waikīkī Aquarium

Perfect for a taking a break from the sun, the Waikīkī Aquarium offers one of the top family-friendly things to do in Honolulu. As an affiliate of the University of Hawaiʻi, this compact, all-weather attraction specialises in Pacific marine life - focusing on local conservation efforts, education, and research.

Kids will love learning through the hands-on activities like “Critter Corner” and spotting a plethora of Hawaiian reef fish, including yellow tangs parrotfish, and butterflyfish. Young visitors will be captivated by the jellyfish in the rotating "Ocean Drifter's" gallery, and the sharks in the "Hunters on the Reef" gallery.

Snorkel in a “real-life aquarium” at Hanauma Bay

For a real-life aquarium experience, Hanauma Bay is a big memory-maker- for families. With 400+ species to look out for, kids will be able to spot tropical fish, green sea turtles within a vibrant coral reef, set within a protected volcanic cove. Kids can also spot the easy to find (yet not so easy to pronounce) state fish, "Humuhumunukunukuapua‘a"!

Tip: An educational video must be watched before. For hassle-free snorkel time, head out early and keep it simple: snorkel, snack, and be out before the peak crowds arrive.

Enjoy Friday night fireworks in Waikīkī

For an easy and memorable family evening in Honolulu, head to Waikīkī Beach to watch the Friday Night Fireworks, launched from the Hilton Hawaiian Village. This popular weekly tradition is a great way to slow down after a day of sightseeing, giving families a chance to relax by the shore and enjoy the lively holiday atmosphere. Children will love the excitement of seeing the sky light up over the ocean, while parents can take in the warm evening setting and beautiful beachfront views. The fireworks are easy to watch from several points along Waikīkī, making it a low-effort outing that still feels special.

Tip: Find a comfortable spot on the sand, bring along some beach towels and light snacks. Settle in before the show begins!

Romantic things to do in Honolulu for couples

Sunset strolls and cocktails along Waikīkī

Honolulu does romance effortlessly - with golden-hour beach walks, warm ocean breezes, and plenty of places nearby to turn it into a full date night. For a memorable moment, Waikīkī also hosts frequent cultural entertainment along the scenic beach walk, including free live Hawaiian music and hula. Tip: Keep it simple with a sunset stroll along the sand, followed by an unhurried evening of cocktails and fine dining.

Snorkel Hanauma Bay together

If you want an active-but-romantic day, Hanauma Bay is a great couples' pleaser. Arrive early and snorkel together in the clear water of the underwater nature preserve. See how many of the 400+ species you can spot, as you watch the captivating marine life around the coral reef. Afterwards dry off and grab a tasty lunch back in town.

Tip: For the quietest snorkeling time, arrive first thing. You'll still need to attend the educational video before heading to the beach.

Climb the Diamond Head Crater

Active couples can enjoy taking on one of Honolulu’s most iconic outdoor experiences, with a walk up Diamond Head State Monument (Lēʻahi) - a volcanic crater overlooking Waikīkī. This popular summit trail climbs to roughly 761 feet above sea level, rewarding you with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, Waikīkī, and the south shore of Oʻahu. Along the way, you’ll pass switchbacks, a tunnel, and historic military lookout points.

Tip: This activity is best done in the morning, when temperatures are cooler and the light is great for photos. Wear comfortable walking shoes, bring water and sunscreen, and expect a moderately active climb, with some uneven terrain and stairs.

Take a wow-factor helicopter tour

A helicopter tour over Honolulu is one of the most romantic ways to experience Oʻahu, giving couples a breathtaking view of the island’s most iconic scenery from above. Soaring past Waikīkī, Diamond Head, Pearl Harbor, Hanauma Bay, and the Koʻolau Mountains, it transforms a special occasion into something truly unforgettable. You'll experience sweeping coastal views, dramatic island landscapes and fresh new perspectives. Some operators also offer sunset flights over the Honolulu skyline, adding an extra touch of magic for anniversaries, honeymoons, or just a memorable date in paradise.

Tip: Book an early morning flight for the clearest views and smoothest experience. Check the operator’s clothing and carry-on guidelines in advance, so your tour is seamless from start to finish.

FAQs for things to do in Honolulu

What are the must-see attractions?

Top picks for the best things to do in Honolulu is Waikīkī Beach, Diamond Head State Monument, Pearl Harbor / USS Arizona Memorial, and Hanauma Bay. First-timers to Hawaii should also catch a live hula show, either at one of the regular performances in Waikīkī or the 3-day Honolulu Festival and other hula-focused events and festivals.

What are the best 3 outdoor activities?

1. Beach day in Waikīkī (for surfing, swimming & sunset walks).
2. Diamond Head crater hike (for 360-degree panoramic views of the Waikiki coastline, city of Honolulu, Pacific Ocean and beyond).
3. Snorkeling Hanauma Bay (spot 450+ species of marine life within a volcanic crater on Oahu)

Is Honolulu good for families?

Yes - Waikīkī is easy to navigate, and you can mix beach time with low-effort, kid-friendly stops like the Waikīkī Aquarium and Honolulu Zoo.

How do I get around?

The Waikiki Trolley is the primary open-air, hop-on-hop-off service in Honolulu, featuring four distinct lines (Blue, Red, Green, Pink) covering major tourist spots, including Waikiki, Diamond Head, and downtown Honolulu. It offers guided, scenic, and shopping routes, with tickets available at the Waikiki Shopping Plaza.

Visitors can also get around by private car hire, ride share or the excursion transportation put on for certain tours.

What is the best time to visit Honolulu?

Honolulu is a fantastic year-round destination; though in general the best time to visit Hawaii is April through October - due to the driest weather.

For fewer crowds, head in April through May and September through October. The cheapest time of year is during the latter part of hurricane season which runs from June through November. For the smoothest sightseeing days, plan early morning hikes and snorkeling. Also consider booking timed-entry attractions like Diamond Head and Hanauma Bay in advance.

Where to stay for the best things to do in Honolulu

A private vacation rental makes a stay in Honolulu feel effortless - with space to spread out, a kitchen for beach-day lunches, and a lanai for slow mornings and sunset wind-downs.

Our Honolulu vacation rentals are ideally located near Waikīkī and the top attractions, making it easy to dip between beach days, hikes, and city exploring. Choose from luxury pool villas by the beach to exclusive beach condos with resort amenities - for the perfect Honolulu vacation.