Best Things to do in Honolulu
All pictures are my own unless otherwise noted/sourced; do not use without permission.
Honolulu is a vibrant island city with stunning natural beauty, but it can feel very busy, especially around Waikiki Beach. The Waikiki area is crowded and energetic, almost like the Las Vegas Strip set along the beach. However, once you get outside the main city and explore the outskirts and more remote beaches, the atmosphere shifts to a quieter, more tropical vibe.
The beaches are undeniably beautiful, with clear turquoise-blue water and classic island scenery. Honolulu also offers plenty of scenic hikes with incredible views, making it a great destination for outdoor lovers. Food options are abundant as well, so you’ll never run out of places to grab a bite.
Overall, while the natural beauty and activities are impressive, the busy city feel can take away from the experience if you’re looking for something more peaceful.
This guide features some of the top things to do in Honolulu.
International Marketplace
The International Market Place is situated just a short walk from Kalakaua Avenue. Although it used to highlight traditional and local merchants, the mall now caters largely to high-end shoppers. Its elegant outdoor setting, combined with beautifully maintained greenery and a large banyan tree centerpiece, makes it an enjoyable place to stroll and browse if you’re in the area.
Shop at Kalakaua Avenue (Waikiki’s main shopping street)
This shopping street in Waikiki is the lively core of the district. It stretches along Waikiki Beach, and features a mix of luxury boutiques, well-known retailers, souvenir stores, shopping centers such as the Royal Hawaiian Center, and a wide variety of restaurants, making it a prime destination for visitors and shoppers alike. The area is packed with hotels, so walking over to Kalakaua Avenue couldn’t be more convenient.
One of my favorite shops is the Musubi Café. We always stop here for quick bites!
Farmers Markets
Checking out a farmer’s market is a delightful way to enjoy local produce, colorful flowers, and handcrafted items. There are a few in the Honolulu area worth checking out:
Honolulu Farmers Market
Wednesdays, 4pm-7pm
777 Ward Ave.
Honolulu, HI 96814
Arena Parking Lot (In between Ward Ave. & Kapiolani Blvd.)
Parking: Free parking in Blaisdell parking lot
Hyatt’s Farmers Market
Mondays & Wednesdays, 4pm-8pm
Hyatt Regency Waikīkī Beach Resort and Spa
2424 Kalākaua Ave. (Ground Floor Atrium)
Honolulu, HI 96815
Kapiʻolani Community College Farmers Market
Saturdays, 7:30am-11am
4303 Diamond Head Rd,
Honolulu, HI 96816
Shave Ice: A Must-Try Treat
There are many shave ice spots to choose from, but Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice is my favorite. Unlike typical shops that taste like mainland versions, Ululani uses only pure cane sugar and high-quality fruit purees, often fresh. After experiencing that, I can’t enjoy regular shave ice the same way—it’s just not comparable.
Please give it a try! It is soooo good!
Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice
909 Kapahulu Ave unit 4
Honolulu, HI 96816
Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden
This 400-acre garden, framed by the stunning Koolau Mountain Range, is a must-see for nature lovers. It’s designed more like a drive-through park, featuring eight tropical gardens, each highlighting unique plants and foliage. You’ll find several nature trails ideal for birdwatching and enjoying the tranquility, along with numerous pull-offs for pictures or picnics.
Best of all, it is free to visit!
Lyon Arboretum
Nestled in Manoa Valley, the Lyon Arboretum is part of the University of Hawaii and spans nearly 200 acres. With over seven miles of trails, it’s home to a wide variety of tropical and subtropical plants, waterfalls, and serene natural spots, perfect for a scenic stroll.
What really stood out to me was the sprawling Banyan trees with aerial roots. It was so magical!
For more updates and or information, please go HERE.
Hours:
Monday-Friday, 9am-3pm
Closed on weekends and for State and Federal Holidays.
Cost:
Free; donations are appreciated (suggestion of $10 per person)
Parking: No reservations required. Parking is first-come, first-served. If the lot is full, there is a paid parking lot at Paradise Park, located before Lyon.
Hanauma Bay
Hanauma Bay is a protected marine sanctuary and top snorkeling spot, with stunning views from afar.
To manage crowds, a reservation system now restricts the number of daily visitors. Tickets become available 48 hours ahead at 7am HST and tend to sell out fast.
You can make a reservation HERE.
If you weren’t able to reserve a ticket, you can try to get walk-in tickets the day of. Try arriving at 6:45am for walk-ins. Keep in mind walk-in tickets are limited, and full party presence is required.
Snorkeling equipment rental is also available once you arrive.
Note: don’t forget to bring reef-safe sunscreen!
During our visit in 2021 or 2022, the corals were brown and dead, and fish were scarce. It was disappointing for us, though I’m sure some people have had more positive experiences.
Hours:
Wednesday-Sunday: 6:45am - 3:30pm
Closed Christmas
Closed New Year's Day
Cost:
Adult Non-Resident Ticket: $25
Adult Active Duty U.S. Military Ticket: Free
Child Ticket: Free
Beaches You Can’t Miss
Waikiki Beach
Waikiki Beach is a world-renowned beach in the heart of Oahu, offering stunning views of Diamond Head. The beach extends for two miles, bordered by soft white sand. It’s a major tourist hub, surrounded by shops, restaurants, and hotels, and its gentle waves make it a popular spot for surfing.
Be aware that this area is very busy and crowded. It’s not our favorite beach, as there are better options outside the city, but if you’re in Honolulu, it’s still worth a visit.
Kailua Beach
As the name suggests, Kailua Beach is located in Kailua and boasts soft white sand and clear turquoise water, with a scenic mountain backdrop. It offers a laid-back island vibe, in contrast to the crowded Waikiki Beach. Kailua beach’s gentle waves make it ideal for families with young children. This beach is perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, or simply strolling along the shore.
There are limited parking and public restrooms and shower facilities available.
Lanikai Beach
Lanikai beach, located in Kailua, is a picturesque beach with white sand and turquoise water. It is well known for its calm, shallow, and stunning views of the Mokulua Islands. People come here to swim, snorkel, and kayak. However, due to its location, it is a great spot for watching sunrise.
Keep in mind parking is limited, and there’s no public restrooms.
Ko Olina Lagoons
The Ko Olina Lagoons in Kapolei are an enjoyable escape featuring four interconnected man-made lagoons. With calm, crystal-clear waters, and shallow depths, they’re perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and or family-friendly fun. Lagoon 4 is the main public beach, so while more parking is available here, spaces are limited and tend to fill up quickly
The area offers a host of amenities, from restrooms and showers to picturesque walking paths connecting all four lagoons, while nearby restaurants and shops make it easy to grab a bite or explore.
Trails Worth Trekking
Kuliʻouʻou Ridge Trail
Distance: 4.3 miles roundtrip
Difficulty: Moderate
The Kuliʻouʻou Ridge Trail winds through diverse habitats and native plants as it climbs along the ridge.
Halfway through the hike, you will arrive at a covered picnic bench. The trail gets steeper after this, with steep inclines and stairs as you hike closer to the summit.
At the summit, you’re rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and sparkling ocean. The warm island sun, the refreshing breeze, and the stunning view – this is one of those moments you just don’t forget.
Please note:
• this trail gets wet and slippery, especially after rain, so good shoes are a must
• bring bug spray
• there is no trailhead parking so most people park in the surrounding neighborhood; please be courteous and considerate of the residents
• be sure to bring plenty of water and some shade; the scorching sun and high humidity can make the hike tough
• plan for at least half a day; this hike took us longer than expected, though we might just be on the slower side
Manoa Falls Trail
Distance: 1.8 miles roundtrip
Difficulty: Moderate
The Manoa Falls Trail is a moderately challenging hike that leads to the base of the breathtaking Manoa Falls. Along the way, you'll meander through vibrant tropical rainforest, where scenes reminiscent of Jurassic Park and LOST come to life, bringing you to the waterfall at the trail’s end.
There is a small parking fee, but the hike is totally worth it! The trail is gorgeous and lush from start to finish, not to mention it’s not a very long hike at all!
Please note:
• this trail gets wet and slippery, especially after rain, so good shoes are a must
• bring bug spray
• swimming at the base of Manoa falls is prohibited
• due to frequent rainfall, always check the forecast and flash flood conditions before heading out
• start early to avoid crowds
Lanikai Pillbox Trail
Distance: 1.7 miles roundtrip
Difficulty: Moderate
The Lanikai Pillbox Trail follows the Ka’iwa Ridge, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Lanikai and Kailua. While the hike is relatively short, some sections are steep and slippery, requiring scrambling and light rock climbing. Fortunately, ropes at the start help with the more challenging parts.
Please note:
good shoes are a must
best not to hike in the rain or following recent rainfall
bring shade and lots of water
parking is limited
Diamond Head Crater Summit Trail
Distance: 1.5 miles roundtrip
Difficulty: Moderate
If you’re looking for a classic Oahu adventure, hiking to the top of Diamond Head is a must. The trail leads you up the crater to breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline, mountains, and Honolulu cityscape. The climb is steep in spots, but the payoff at the top is well worth it.
Before you go, make a reservation online first (entry is $5 per person); reservations can be made up to 30 days in advance HERE.
At the trailhead, you’ll find restrooms, a water bottle filling station, and a visitor center where you can pick up souvenirs or grab essentials for the hike.
The last time we visited, before the reservation system was in place, the trail was packed even in the early morning, and we couldn’t find a parking. Next time, we’re definitely planning ahead to secure a reservation!