bigtravelbuzzHonolulu is the capital city of the state of Hawaii and located on the island of Oahu. It is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning beaches, historical landmarks, and vibrant cultural scene. Here are some of the top attractions in Honolulu:
Waikiki Beach: One of the most famous beaches in the world, Waikiki is known for its soft white sand and crystal-clear waters. It is a great place for swimming, sunbathing, and water activities such as surfing and paddleboarding.
Pearl Harbor: A National Historic Landmark, Pearl Harbor is the site of the infamous 1941 attack that brought the United States into World War II. Visitors can pay their respects at the USS Arizona Memorial and explore other exhibits and memorials.
Diamond Head State Monument: Located at the eastern end of Waikiki, Diamond Head is a volcanic crater that offers breathtaking views of the city and the ocean. Visitors can hike to the summit for panoramic views.
Iolani Palace: The only royal palace in the United States, Iolani Palace was the residence of Hawaii’s last monarchs before the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom in 1893. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the history and architecture of the palace.
Honolulu Museum of Art: The largest art museum in the state of Hawaii, the Honolulu Museum of Art features a diverse collection of art from around the world, including traditional Hawaiian art and contemporary works.
Chinatown: Located in downtown Honolulu, Chinatown is a bustling neighborhood with a rich cultural history. Visitors can explore the markets, restaurants, and historical buildings in the area.
Bishop Museum: Dedicated to preserving and sharing the history and culture of Hawaii and the Pacific, the Bishop Museum features exhibits on natural history, science, and culture.
These are just a few of the many attractions and activities available in Honolulu. With its rich history, diverse culture, and natural beauty, Honolulu is a must-see destination for visitors to Hawaii.
Best Time To Visit Honolulu
The best time to visit Honolulu is during the shoulder season from mid-April to early June or from September to mid-December when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are smaller. During these months, the temperatures are warm, and there is less humidity, making it a great time for outdoor activities such as hiking and sightseeing.
Another advantage of visiting during the shoulder season is that hotels and flights are generally cheaper than during the peak season, which runs from mid-December to March. However, keep in mind that prices may be higher during major events such as the Honolulu Marathon in December and the Honolulu Festival in March.
If you are planning to visit Honolulu during the peak season, be prepared for larger crowds and higher prices. The weather during this time is generally warm and sunny, making it a great time for beach activities and water sports. Just be sure to book your accommodations and activities well in advance to ensure availability.
Overall, Honolulu can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences and travel goals. If you’re looking for smaller crowds and lower prices, the shoulder season is a great option, but if you’re looking for the liveliest atmosphere and the best beach weather, the peak season is the way to go.
Things to Do in Honolulu
Honolulu, the capital city of Hawaii, offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors. Here are some of the top things to do in Honolulu:
Visit Waikiki Beach: One of the most famous beaches in the world, Waikiki Beach is a must-visit destination in Honolulu. It is a great place for swimming, sunbathing, and water activities such as surfing and paddleboarding.
Explore Pearl Harbor: A National Historic Landmark, Pearl Harbor is the site of the infamous 1941 attack that brought the United States into World War II. Visitors can pay their respects at the USS Arizona Memorial and explore other exhibits and memorials.
Hike Diamond Head: Located at the eastern end of Waikiki, Diamond Head is a volcanic crater that offers breathtaking views of the city and the ocean. Visitors can hike to the summit for panoramic views.
Visit the Honolulu Museum of Art: The largest art museum in the state of Hawaii, the Honolulu Museum of Art features a diverse collection of art from around the world, including traditional Hawaiian art and contemporary works.
Explore Iolani Palace: The only royal palace in the United States, Iolani Palace was the residence of Hawaii’s last monarchs before the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom in 1893. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the history and architecture of the palace.
Visit the Bishop Museum: Dedicated to preserving and sharing the history and culture of Hawaii and the Pacific, the Bishop Museum features exhibits on natural history, science, and culture.
Stroll Through Chinatown: Located in downtown Honolulu, Chinatown is a bustling neighborhood with a rich cultural history. Visitors can explore the markets, restaurants, and historical buildings in the area.
Visit the Honolulu Zoo: Located in Waikiki, the Honolulu Zoo is home to over 900 animals from around the world, including elephants, tigers, and giraffes.
Enjoy Traditional Hawaiian Culture: Attend a Hawaiian Luau, watch a hula performance, or learn about traditional Hawaiian crafts such as lei making and ukulele playing.
These are just a few of the many activities and attractions available in Honolulu. With its rich history, diverse culture, and natural beauty, Honolulu is a must-visit destination for visitors to Hawaii.
How to get around in Honolulu
Honolulu offers several transportation options for getting around the city, including:
TheBus: TheBus is Honolulu’s public bus system and is an affordable way to get around the city. It covers the entire island of Oahu and offers several routes to popular tourist destinations.
Taxis and Ridesharing: Taxis and ridesharing services such as Uber and Lyft are also available in Honolulu. Taxis can be found at taxi stands throughout the city, while ridesharing services can be accessed through mobile apps.
Rental Cars: Rental cars are available at the Honolulu International Airport and throughout the city. However, be aware that parking in Honolulu can be difficult and expensive.
Biki: Biki is a bike-sharing program that allows visitors to rent bikes from various locations throughout the city. It is a great way to explore Honolulu’s downtown area and beachfront.
Waikiki Trolley: The Waikiki Trolley offers several routes to popular tourist destinations in and around Honolulu, including Pearl Harbor and Diamond Head. It is a great option for visitors who want to see the sights without worrying about driving or parking.
Overall, there are several transportation options available in Honolulu, and visitors can choose the one that best suits their needs and budget.
Where to eat in Honolulu
Honolulu is known for its diverse food scene, with a variety of restaurants serving up delicious dishes from around the world. Here are some of the top places to eat in Honolulu:
Alan Wong’s: One of the most well-known restaurants in Honolulu, Alan Wong’s serves up contemporary Hawaiian cuisine using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Marukame Udon: This popular Japanese restaurant serves up freshly made udon noodles in a variety of delicious soups and toppings.
Helena’s Hawaiian Food: For a taste of traditional Hawaiian cuisine, check out Helena’s Hawaiian Food. The restaurant serves up classic dishes such as kalua pig, poi, and lomi salmon.
Roy’s Waikiki: Chef Roy Yamaguchi’s flagship restaurant, Roy’s Waikiki, serves up Pacific Rim cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood.
The Pig & The Lady: This Vietnamese restaurant in Honolulu’s Chinatown serves up delicious dishes such as pho, banh mi sandwiches, and noodle bowls.
Musubi Cafe Iyasume: For a quick and delicious bite, check out Musubi Cafe Iyasume, which serves up a variety of musubi (a type of Japanese rice ball) with different fillings.
Hula Grill Waikiki: Located right on Waikiki Beach, Hula Grill Waikiki offers stunning ocean views and a menu of fresh, island-inspired cuisine.
Koko Head Cafe: This popular brunch spot serves up creative takes on classic breakfast dishes, such as a kimchi bacon cheddar scone and a breakfast bibimbap.
The Street, A Michael Mina Social House: This food hall in the International Market Place features a variety of vendors serving up everything from sushi to pizza.
These are just a few of the many great places to eat in Honolulu. With its diverse food scene and abundance of fresh, locally sourced ingredients, Honolulu is a food lover’s paradise.
Famous street stalls in Honolulu
Honolulu has a vibrant street food scene, and there are several famous street stalls that you won’t want to miss. Here are some of the most popular street stalls in Honolulu:
Leonard’s Bakery: This famous bakery is known for its delicious malasadas, which are Portuguese donuts covered in sugar and often filled with cream or other tasty fillings.
Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck: Located on Oahu’s North Shore, Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck serves up buttery, garlicky shrimp scampi that is a must-try for seafood lovers.
Ono Seafood: This casual seafood spot in Honolulu’s Kapahulu neighborhood is famous for its poke, a traditional Hawaiian dish made with raw fish and other toppings.
Rainbow Drive-In: This iconic Honolulu drive-in has been serving up local favorites since 1961, including the famous “plate lunch” of rice, macaroni salad, and a choice of meat or seafood.
Da Spot: This health-focused restaurant in Honolulu’s Kapahulu neighborhood serves up a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes, including delicious acai bowls.
Hanauma Bay Snack Bar: Located at Hanauma Bay, a popular snorkeling spot, this snack bar serves up tasty burgers, hot dogs, and other beachside snacks.
Shimazu Shave Ice: This family-owned shave ice stand has been serving up refreshing treats since 1969, with a variety of flavors and toppings to choose from.
These are just a few of the many great street stalls and food trucks in Honolulu. Whether you’re in the mood for sweet treats, savory seafood, or local favorites, there’s something for everyone in Honolulu’s street food scene.
Where to stay in Honolulu
Luxury accommodation
Honolulu is home to a variety of luxurious accommodations, ranging from beachfront resorts to urban hotels. Here are some of the top luxury accommodations in Honolulu:
The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort: Located on Waikiki Beach, the Royal Hawaiian is one of Honolulu’s most iconic and historic hotels. The resort features elegant rooms and suites, a private beach, and a variety of restaurants and bars.
Halekulani: This luxurious beachfront resort features elegant rooms and suites, a spa, a fitness center, and a variety of dining options, including the renowned La Mer restaurant.
The Kahala Hotel & Resort: Located just outside of Waikiki, the Kahala Hotel & Resort is a secluded oasis that offers a private beach, a spa, a fitness center, and several restaurants and bars.
Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina: This luxury resort is located on the west coast of Oahu, away from the hustle and bustle of Waikiki. The resort features spacious rooms and suites, several restaurants and bars, a spa, and a golf course.
Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa: Another historic Waikiki hotel, the Moana Surfrider features elegant rooms and suites, a private beach, a spa, and several restaurants and bars.
Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa: This family-friendly resort is located on the west coast of Oahu and features spacious rooms and suites, a water park, a spa, and a variety of dining options.
These are just a few of the many luxurious accommodations available in Honolulu. With so many options to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect place to stay for your Hawaiian vacation.
Where to stay in Honolulu
Budget accommodation
If you’re looking for budget accommodations in Honolulu, there are several options available, including hostels, budget hotels, and vacation rentals. Here are some of the top budget accommodations in Honolulu:
The Beach Waikiki Boutique Hostel: This budget-friendly hostel is located just a block from Waikiki Beach and offers dormitory-style rooms and private rooms. The hostel features a communal kitchen, a rooftop terrace, and a variety of social events.
Vive Hotel Waikiki: This budget hotel is located in the heart of Waikiki and offers comfortable rooms and suites at an affordable price. The hotel features a rooftop pool, a fitness center, and a continental breakfast.
Polynesian Hostel Beach Club: Located just steps from Waikiki Beach, this hostel offers dormitory-style rooms and private rooms at an affordable price. The hostel features a communal kitchen, a rooftop terrace, and a variety of social events.
Aqua Ohia Waikiki Studio Suites: This budget hotel is located just a block from Waikiki Beach and offers comfortable studio suites at an affordable price. The hotel features a rooftop pool and sundeck, a fitness center, and a variety of dining options nearby.
Airbnb: There are many vacation rentals available in Honolulu through Airbnb, ranging from private rooms to entire apartments or homes. This can be a great option for budget-conscious travelers who want more space and privacy than a hostel or hotel.
These are just a few of the many budget accommodations available in Honolulu. With a little research, you’re sure to find the perfect place to stay that fits your budget and needs.
Travel Tips Honolulu
Here are some travel tips for visiting Honolulu:
Plan ahead: Honolulu is a popular tourist destination, especially during peak season, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead and book accommodations, tours, and activities in advance to avoid disappointment.
Pack appropriately: The weather in Honolulu is warm and humid year-round, so be sure to pack light, breathable clothing, as well as comfortable shoes for walking and hiking. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
Rent a car: While it’s possible to get around Honolulu using public transportation, renting a car can give you more flexibility and freedom to explore the island at your own pace.
Respect local culture: Hawaii has a rich and unique culture, so it’s important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. Learn about Hawaiian history and culture before you go, and be mindful of local customs, such as removing your shoes before entering someone’s home.
Try the local cuisine: Honolulu has a diverse and delicious food scene, so be sure to try some of the local cuisine, such as poke (raw fish salad), loco moco (a Hawaiian dish made with rice, a hamburger patty, gravy, and a fried egg), and shaved ice (a popular Hawaiian dessert).
Explore beyond Waikiki: While Waikiki is a popular tourist destination, there’s much more to see and do on the island of Oahu. Be sure to explore other areas, such as the North Shore, Kailua, and downtown Honolulu.
Be mindful of the environment: Hawaii is home to many unique and fragile ecosystems, so be sure to be mindful of the environment and practice responsible tourism. Don’t litter, stay on designated trails, and avoid touching or disturbing wildlife.
These are just a few tips for visiting Honolulu. With a little planning and preparation, you’re sure to have a wonderful time exploring this beautiful city and the island of Oahu.