Salaam, individual explorers! Prepare to jump into the lively and spellbinding city of Honolulu, Hello, where an overflow of energizing undertakings and encounters look for you.
There are numerous Things to Do in Honolulu that will pique your sense of adventure and leave you with cherished memories in this bustling metropolis on the island of Oahu. From sun-splashed sea shores and notorious milestones to divine cooking and vivid social experiences, Honolulu has everything.
So get your sunscreen, put on your salaam soul, and we should investigate the charming miracles that make Honolulu a must-visit objective.
Prepare to submerge yourself in the energy of this lively city and reveal the unlikely treasures that anticipate everywhere. Are you up to it? We should leave on an extraordinary excursion through the amazing Activities in Honolulu!
So in this article, I will share the famous with high rating tourist attractions in Honolulu, Hawaii.
1. Pacific Aviation Museum Pearl Harbor
One of the most famous events in Hawaii is undoubtedly the Pearl Harbor attack during World War II, which I’m sure many of you have learned about in middle school history.
The Pearl Harbor National Memorial is a place of remembrance for aviation history and significant artifacts from the Pacific War.
Here, you can see many important items from the WWII era, including aircraft, ammunition, photographs, and equipment. If you want to gain a deeper understanding of the history of the Pacific War, visiting the Pearl Harbor National Memorial is a must-do when in Hawaii.
Furthermore, this area is home to four attractions: Pacific Aviation Museum, The USS Bowfin Submarine, The USS Arizona Memorial, and the USS Missouri Battleship, and.
I recommend dedicating a whole day to explore these attractions. It’s best to arrive here around 9:00 AM to avoid crowds, as it tends to get busier later in the day, and you may have to wait in line for entry.
- Estimate Time: 1 hr. It might need a whole day if adding the Pearl Harbor tour.
- Price: $25.99 USD (Only for aviation museum)
- Open Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Phone: (808) 441-1000
- Address: 319 Lexington Boulevard, Honolulu, Hawaii 96818
- Website: https://www.pearlharboraviationmuseum.org/
- Other Info:
I recommend using the Oahu Go City Pass for your visit to Pearl Harbor because it grants you access to attractions such as the USS Arizona Memorial, Pacific Aviation Museum, USS Missouri Battleship, and USS Bowfin Submarine. With this pass, you can conveniently access all these sites with a single ticket, making it a cost-effective option!
2. The USS Missouri Battleship Museum
One of the must-visit attractions during your trip to Hawaii is Pearl Harbor, and the USS Missouri Battleship is one of the most famous battleships of World War II. It holds significant historical importance as it was the site of Japan’s formal surrender, making it a symbolically significant warship in history.
The USS Missouri Battleship is a suitable attraction for everyone, and both adults and children will enjoy it. Exploring the living conditions of the crew and observing features like the ship’s artillery are always fascinating, no matter how many times you visit.
Additionally, guided tours are available at the site in multiple languages, including English, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Russian, Spanish, and more. It’s recommended to call and make a reservation in advance for these services, and they are included in the ticket price.
However, it’s worth noting that the accessibility may be less convenient for individuals with certain disabilities, as it involves navigating stairs and moving through relatively small compartments. Nevertheless, even experiencing the grandeur of the battleship from the deck alone is awe-inspiring. It’s a must-include itinerary when visiting Oahu Island.
- Estimate Time: 2-3 hrs. It might need a whole day if adding the Pearl Harbor tour.
- Price: $34.99 USD (for battleship tour)
- Open Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Phone: (808) 455-1600
- Address: 63 Cowpens St, Honolulu, HI 96818
- Website: https://ussmissouri.org/
- Other Info:
I recommend using the Oahu Go City Pass for your visit to Pearl Harbor because it grants you access to attractions such as the USS Arizona Memorial, Pacific Aviation Museum, USS Missouri Battleship, and USS Bowfin Submarine. With this pass, you can conveniently access all these sites with a single ticket, making it a cost-effective option!
3. The USS Bowfin Submarine Museum
It’s a super cool place! Also, it’s another tourist attraction at Pearl Harbor that I really love. Whether it’s the museum or the actual submarine tour, it offers information that you wouldn’t easily come across in your daily life. It showcases the internal structure of the submarine and provides insights into the overall living environment of the crew.
In addition, you can rent audio speaker guides, which are available in multiple languages like English, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, etc. to let you get detailed information about each facility and its historical significance. All up to you.
I suggest starting with the museum on the right side as you enter. Here, you can familiarize yourself with the structure of the submarine and learn about how the United States utilized submarines to win World War II. Additionally, you can even experience simulating the use of sonar to locate other vessels, which both adults and children will find fascinating.
- Estimate Time: 1-2 hrs. It might need a whole day if adding the Pearl Harbor tour.
- Price: $21.99 USD
- Open Time: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Phone: 808-423-1341
- Address: 11 Arizona Memorial Dr, Honolulu, HI 96818
- Website: https://www.bowfin.org/
- Other Info:
I recommend using the Oahu Go City Pass for your visit to Pearl Harbor because it grants you access to attractions such as the USS Arizona Memorial, Pacific Aviation Museum, USS Missouri Battleship, and USS Bowfin Submarine. With this pass, you can conveniently access all these sites with a single ticket, making it a cost-effective option!
4. The USS Arizona Memorial
On December 7, 1941, it was World War II, Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor and sank many warships, the USS Arizona is one of the most iconic warships which sank by Japanese fighters, Pearl Harbor Attack resulting in the loss of nearly 2,500 lives, includes mostly American servicemen. The remains of the USS Arizona were not removed or cleaned up, and now it rests at Pearl Harbor in Oahu, Hawaii, serving as a memorial for people to reflect upon the history, experience, and honor the fallen.
If you’re on a Hawaii vacation, I strongly recommend this attraction. It not only serves as a reminder of how fortunate we are to live in the present era but also highlights the sacrifices and struggles made by countless individuals for the sake of peace. It is not just a lesson for Americans; it is essential for everyone to recognize that the current environment is a result of the sacrifices made by our predecessors.
- Estimate Time: 1 hr. Depends on the amount of people lines.
- Price: Free.
- Open Time: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Phone: (808) 422-3399
- Address: 1 Arizona Memorial Pl, Honolulu, HI 96818
- Website: https://www.nps.gov/perl/planyourvisit/basicinfo.htm
- Other Info:
I recommend using the Oahu Go City Pass for your visit to Pearl Harbor because it grants you access to attractions such as the USS Arizona Memorial, Pacific Aviation Museum, USS Missouri Battleship, and USS Bowfin Submarine. With this pass, you can conveniently access all these sites with a single ticket, making it a cost-effective option!
5. Aloha Stadium Swap Meet
At the Swap Meet, you can find many unique items, and local residents also come to sell some second-hand goods. If you are a long-term resident of Hawaii, it’s worth checking out to see if there are any valuable items to discover.
The Swap Meet is not open every day. It operates on three days a week (Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday) from around 6:00 AM to 3:00 PM. I recommend going early because it gets hotter around noon. Usually, after finishing shopping at around 8-9 AM, people head to the Waikele Shopping Outlet to enjoy some air-conditioned shopping, making it a full day of shopping itinerary.
Check the location on Google Map
6. Punchbowl Crater
Punchbowl Crater is another famous tourist attraction that many people go to visit. Besides Pearl Harbor, I recommend this tourist place that you may add to your day trip itinerary for Hawaii vacation.
It’s a significant memorial burial ground near Honolulu and It is situated in the crater of an extinct volcano known as Puowaina, meaning “Hill of Sacrifice” in Hawaiian, which means it serves as a reminder of the price of freedom and the bravery of those who defended America.
Anyone who visits here to pay respects, honor the fallen, and gain a deeper understanding of the sacrifices made by the American military throughout history.
If you want to know this location, you may check-in at National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific.
Check the location on Google Map
7. Manoa Falls Hiking Trail
Manoa, as we know the famous natural attraction in the mountain, Manoa Falls is the most significant place that you have to arrive at! How do you get there? Just through the Manoa Hiking Trail by hiking. You can enjoy the evergreen place, fresh air, and finally the Manoa Falls cooling water.
The Manoa hiking trail is approximately 1.6 miles (2.6 km), it’s not a long trail & not a difficult hike so you can enjoy the smoothie walking. If you hike on the trail, you will find various special plants and rainforest around, with the fresh air that makes you chill.
In addition, Cascading from a height of about 150 feet (46 meters) formed the Manoa Falls incredible architecture, such as a small valley.
The falls with the small lake view and the mountain, all the natural cooling surround you once you arrive at the falls. Would you like to enjoy hiking with the falls? Add this to your itinerary.
8. Iolani Palace
Iolani Palace, located on the island of Oahu in Hawaii, was built in 1879. It is one of the most significant cultural and historical legacies in Hawaii, showcasing the history and culture of the Hawaiian Kingdom.
This place was once the official residence of Queen Liliuokalani, the last reigning monarch of the Hawaiian Kingdom. However, in 1893, the monarchy was overthrown, and the palace served as a military site until the World War II era. It was later recognized and restored as a historical museum.
At Iolani Palace, visitors can explore various rooms and gardens, gaining insights into the lifestyle, cultural traditions, and political system of the Hawaiian monarchy.
Additionally, I personally enjoy taking walks there as the environment is truly fantastic, allowing for a great sense of relaxation for the mind, body, and soul.
- Estimate Time: 2 hrs.
- Price: $26.95 USD
- Open Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Phone: +1808-522-0822
- Address: 364 S King St, Honolulu, HI 96813
- Website: http://www.iolanipalace.org/
- Other Info:
I recommend using the Oahu Go City Pass for your visit to Pearl Harbor because it lets you access many places in the palace. Also you can request other language guides.
9. Bishop Museum
One of the popular historical and cultural sites in Hawaii is the Bishop Museum. It stands out from other cultural attractions.
If you have already visited Iolani Palace and the Polynesian Cultural Center and have an interest in items, musical instruments, weapons, or various artifacts from those places, the Bishop Museum will provide explanations for everything.
It showcases various elements of Hawaiian culture and traditional life, with guided tours available in multiple languages, including Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and English.
In addition, the museum houses an observatory that offers astronomical observations and educational activities, allowing visitors to observe the stars in the Hawaiian skies.
The staff will teach you how to identify stars and determine directions, which I find fascinating and unforgettable for both adults and children. Below is an instructional image for star identification.
- Estimate Time: 2-3 hrs
- Price: $28.95 USD
- Open Time: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Phone: +1808-847-3511
- Address: 1525 Bernice St, Honolulu, HI 96817
- Website: http://www.bishopmuseum.org/
- Other Info:
I recommend using the Oahu Go City Pass for your visit to Oahu. This all-day access pass allows you to explore many attractions, and it offers great value for money.
10. Star of Honolulu Cruise Tour
As Hawaii is an island region, experiencing a yacht dining excursion is a must. There are several yacht dining options available on Oahu, but in terms of value for money, I highly recommend the Star of Honolulu.
The Star of Honolulu is one of the largest yachts on Oahu, featuring four decks, including a 360-degree panoramic observation deck on the top floor.
There are three dining options available: the Five-Star Lobster Dinner (located on the third deck), the Three-Star Alaskan King Crab Dinner (located on the first deck), and the Buffet Dinner (located on the second deck).
I suggest going for the Lobster Dinner as it offers a significant upgrade in both ambiance and food quality for only a slightly higher price.
When I went with my aunt last time, we initially ordered the Alaskan King Crab Dinner, but after checking out the upper deck, we noticed a noticeable difference.
In addition, the Star of Honolulu offers a variety of tour and activity options, such as whale and dolphin watching or private/group charter services. If you have specific activities or group reservations in mind, I suggest calling them to inquire. Here’s an video show you the dinner cruise and what the food looks like:
“Regardless of who you’re here with on your trip to Hawaii today, the Star of Honolulu can be arranged as your evening dinner excursion. Personally, I find it quite worthwhile.”
- Estimate Time: 3 hrs
- Price: $172 USD up (Friday might be more expensive because of firework show)
- Open Time: 5:30 PM departure
- Phone: +1808-983-7730
- Address: Pier 8, Aloha Tower Marketplace, 1 Aloha Tower Dr, Honolulu, HI 96813
- Website: https://www.starofhonolulu.com/
11. Diamond Head
If you’re staying in Waikiki while visiting Hawaii, when facing the ocean, you’ll notice a mountain on your left, and that’s Diamond Head. It is one of the famous hiking spots in Hawaii, and it give you a 360-degree panoramic view from the summit and the opportunity to explore the World War II-era bunkers, what a fascinating place. The scenery is truly spectacular.
The Diamond Head trail is approximately 1.6 kilometers long. If you rent a car, I suggest going early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the cooling. If you arrive closer to noon, you may encounter challenges such as limited parking, hot weather, and a crowded trail, which could make it difficult to take pictures and fully appreciate the surroundings. So, it’s the best place to go as early as possible for your Hawaii vacation experience.
- Estimate Time: 3-4 hrs
- Price: $5 USD entry fee; $10 for car parking fee.
- Open Time: 6:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Phone: +1808-587-0300
- Address: Honolulu, HI 96815
- Website: https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/parks/oahu/diamond-head-state-monument/
- Other Info:
I recommend going early because Diamond Head is a highly popular tourist attraction. Once it’s past 10 o’clock, it gets extremely crowded, and finding parking becomes very challenging. If you’re staying near Waikiki, I suggest taking the Trolley or the “Ding Ding” car to get there. This way, you can enjoy the scenic views along the way as well.
12. Koko Head Hiking Trail
This is interesting. I recommend this tourist attraction as Koko Head Crater, which is at the top of the Koko volcanic area. Before you reach the top, you have to hike through a special trail, that is, a railway trail.
The Koko Crater Railway is no longer working for the train, so you don’t need to worry about the train going through. Basically, it is a hiking trail with the old railway which was left by military supplies, so you are hiking on the railway but no train here. The trail has about 1048 steps, not quite long, and not difficult to hike, so it’s a smoothie hike activity for you.
Until Koko Head, where you can enjoy the wide sight view of the ocean. When you see all the aqua around you, the top sight combines with the seaside and sunshine. How do you feel about that?
If you go to Koko Head before sunset time, that’s not burning and a bit cool for you. When you arrive at the top and find the platform and sit down and see the wide view, that is a fulfilling hiking tour, and you can take a photo with this ocean view at the top!
Get the location on Google Map>>
13. Hanauma Bay
If you’re looking to go snorkeling in Oahu, you must visit the famous Hanauma Bay. It not only features a unique bay formation but also tends to have sunny weather and calm waters on the east coast, making it an ideal destination for couples, families, and individuals alike. The marine life in the bay is incredibly rich, with coral reefs, various tropical fish, and even octopuses. I have even seen sea turtles here!
Additionally, Hanauma Bay offers excellent facilities and vendors. You’ll find amenities such as locker rentals, dining areas, and equipment rentals for beach activities. It’s definitely a must-visit destination when you’re in Hawaii.
- Estimate Time: 3 hrs
- Price: $25 USD (Free for child below age 12); $3 for car parking fee.
- Open Time: 6:45 AM – 4:00PM, and must have check-in before 1:30 PM (Closed on Mon & Tue)
- Phone: +1808-768-6861
- Address: 100 Hanauma Bay Rd, Honolulu, HI 96825
- Website: http://www.honolulu.gov/parks-hbay/home.html
- Other Info:
If you’re driving, I recommend arriving early as parking spaces at Hanauma Bay can be limited and fill up quickly. If you find that there are no available parking spots, you can drop off the passengers at the entrance and then proceed to park at Koko Marina Shopping Center before making your way back on foot. Furthermore, I suggest considering bringing your own packed lunch or snacks from places like Zippy’s, as the food inside Hanauma Bay can be quite expensive. This way, you can save some money and have the convenience of enjoying your own food during your visit.
14. Spitting Cave
If you love natural scenery and enjoy watching sunsets, then you definitely shouldn’t miss Spitting Cave. It’s a popular spot for romantic dates, and during high school, people would come here for dates during the day or night. Especially in the late afternoon when the sun is about to set, there are usually more people because the sunset here is absolutely breathtaking!
This attraction is located between small hills in a residential area. I wouldn’t recommend bringing young children here, especially those who tend to be uncontrollable and run around. Some of the cliffs here are quite high, so it’s important to be constantly vigilant and keep an eye on your child’s every move.
- Estimate Time: 0.5-1 hr
- Price: Free.
- Open Time: 24 hrs (Highly recommend go for sunset)
- Address: 7 Lumahai St, Honolulu, HI 96825
Due to my content schedule, I will add more content in this article and keep updating consistently. Thank you for reading and apologize for your inconvenience.
People Also Interested On These Topics:
- Ultimate Oahu Travel Guide (Hawaii Vacation Planner)
- Best Oahu 3 Day Itinerary with City Pass Ticket (Budget Trip)
- Top Tourist Attractions in Oahu, Hawaii
- 10 Best Hotels in Honolulu, Hawaii (High-Quality)
- 20 Best Restaurants in Oahu, Hawaii (My Bucket List)