What to do in Honolulu: 10 must-sees in Hawaii's capital 2025
If you're wondering what to do in Honolulu, the options are endless, as the city offers a unique combination of nature, culture and history.
Honolulu is the gateway to Hawaii and a destination that has it all: paradisiacal beaches, a fascinating history, impressive volcanic landscapes and a vibrant local culture. Located on the island of Oahu, this city is much more than a stopover for travelers looking for the best beaches in the archipelago. From the famous Waikiki Beach to the historic Pearl Harbor , passing by scenic trails such as Diamond Head , Honolulu offers unique experiences that combine nature, history and entertainment.
If you're planning a trip and wondering what to do in Honolulu , get ready for a city full of contrasts. Here you can start the day exploring a volcanic crater with unparalleled views, enjoy the afternoon relaxing on a beach with crystal-clear waters, and end the day with dinner at one of the many fine dining restaurants that stand out for their fusion of Polynesian and Asian flavors.
Honolulu also has a vibrant cultural scene, with museums such as the Bishop Museum , which offers an immersion in Hawaiian history, and the Iolani Palace , a testament to the archipelago's last reign.
But Honolulu is not just about history and scenery. The city is the epicenter of surfing in Hawaii, with perfect waves for beginners and experts alike. It is also an excellent starting point for excursions to hidden bays, lush valleys and hiking trails that will take you to see some of the best views on the island.
Honolulu is a city that combines adventure and relaxation in an unrivaled tropical setting. In this article, we tell you about the best activities and places you can't miss on your visit.
What you will find in this note:
- 10 things to do in Honolulu
- Waikiki Beach: Hawaii's Most Famous Beach
- Diamond Head: the best viewpoint in the city
- Pearl Harbor: history in its purest form
- Hanauma Bay: Snorkeling Paradise
- Iolani Palace: America's only royal palace
- Lanikai Beach: One of the best beaches in the world
- Ala Moana Center: Shopping and Entertainment
- Manoa Falls: A Spectacular Waterfall
10 things to do in Honolulu
Honolulu is a destination that has it all: surfing, food, shopping, spectacular scenery and a fascinating history. Anyone who visits this vibrant city will take away unforgettable memories of their time in Hawaii's capital.
Waikiki Beach: Hawaii's Most Famous Beach
If there's one iconic spot in Honolulu, it's Waikiki Beach . This beach is famous around the world for its golden sand, turquoise waters and lively atmosphere. It's the ideal place for both relaxing in the sun and practicing water sports. Here, surfing is king, with schools offering classes for all levels and perfect waves for learning or perfecting your technique.
Strolling along the Waikiki Beach Walk , an avenue full of shops, restaurants and bars, is another must-do activity in the area. At sunset, the beach becomes a colorful spectacle with the sun reflecting off the water, while tourists and locals enjoy the festive and relaxed atmosphere that characterizes Honolulu.
Diamond Head: the best viewpoint in the city-Things to do in Honolulu today
For those seeking a panoramic view of Honolulu, Diamond Head is the place to be. This extinct volcanic crater offers one of the most popular hikes on the island. The route, while short, is demanding, with steep sections and stairs that challenge visitors. However, the reward upon reaching the top is unmatched: a 360-degree view that takes in the entire city, the coast and the Pacific Ocean.
Climbing Diamond Head is one of the most recommended activities in Honolulu, especially for hiking and photography enthusiasts. Ideally, it is best to do it early in the morning to avoid the heat and enjoy the tranquility of the sunrise with the ocean in the background.
Pearl Harbor: history in its purest form
One of the most important places in Honolulu is Pearl Harbor , the site of the Japanese attack that marked the entry of the United States into World War II. Today, this military port is a moving open-air museum that provides an in-depth understanding of what happened on December 7, 1941.
The USS Arizona Memorial is the most visited site, built on the remains of the battleship sunk during the attack. It is also possible to tour the USS Missouri , the ship where Japan's surrender was signed in 1945. A visit to Pearl Harbor is a moving experience that allows you to understand Hawaii's recent history and its importance in world geopolitics.
Hanauma Bay: Snorkeling Paradise
For lovers of the marine world, Hanauma Bay is a must-see destination. Formed in the crater of an extinct volcano, this bay is a protected nature reserve and one of the best snorkelling spots in Hawaii. Its crystal-clear waters and impressive biodiversity allow you to swim alongside tropical fish, sea turtles and coral reefs.
Access to the bay is regulated to protect the ecosystem, so it is important to make a reservation in advance. Additionally, before entering, visitors must watch a short educational video about the importance of conservation. Hanauma Bay is the perfect place to enjoy the underwater beauty of Oahu in a spectacular setting.
Iolani Palace: America's only royal palace
Iolani Palace is an architectural gem and a symbol of the ancient Kingdom of Hawaii. Built in 1882, this palace was the residence of the last Hawaiian monarchs before the annexation of the archipelago by the United States.
Today, Iolani Palace is a museum that offers a unique perspective on Hawaiian history. Its luxurious halls, decorated with European and Asian influences, showcase the splendor of Hawaiian royalty and foreign influence on the island.
Lanikai Beach: One of the best beaches in the world
Although not located in the center of Honolulu, Lanikai Beach deserves a special mention. Located just 30 minutes away by car, this beach is considered one of the most beautiful in the world thanks to its white sand, crystal-clear waters and tranquility.
Lanikai is the ideal place for swimming, kayaking or simply relaxing in a heavenly setting. From here, you can see the famous Mokulua Islands, two islets that add a spectacular touch to the landscape.
Ala Moana Center: Shopping and Entertainment
For those who enjoy shopping, Ala Moana Center is heaven. It is the largest open-air mall in the world, with an impressive variety of stores ranging from luxury brands to local boutiques.
In addition to shopping, Ala Moana Center offers cultural performances, top-notch restaurants and a prime location next to Ala Moana Beach Park , another great place to relax and enjoy the beach.
Manoa Falls: A Spectacular Waterfall
Nature lovers can't miss the hike to Manoa Falls , a 46-meter-high waterfall located in a lush tropical valley. The trail leading to the waterfall is accessible to most visitors and passes through a forest of bamboo and giant ferns, creating a magical atmosphere.
It's a perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Oahu. In addition, this area has been the setting for movies and series such as Jurassic Park and Lost .
