As the primary gateway to the islands for many, Honolulu is often the first taste of Hawaii for eager visitors. And what a way to begin your Pacific Island adventure, with this exciting and alluring mix of gleaming high-rise buildings, glamorous shopping and a thriving nightlife married with incredible beaches, exhilarating hikes and breathtaking natural landscapes.
Though it can be tempting to never move from the soft sands of the iconic Waikiki Beach, the capital of O’ahu has much to offer visitors. Take at least a week to explore beyond Honolulu’s major attractions and get ready to fall in love with this beguiling city forever.
1. Savor the best views of the city from Diamond Head
If there’s one thing that’s synonymous with Hawaii, it’s volcanoes. And there’s an absolute beauty in Honolulu that offers incredible views of the entire region – bring a decent camera. Diamond Head State Monument was once used as a military observation point, and the trail created in 1908 to get to the crater rim is now one of the most popular attractions in Honolulu.
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Set your alarm clock for an early start to avoid the crowds and the heat. This is a moderately challenging trail that’s just under 2 miles in total and should take a little over an hour to complete, out and back. But most visitors take longer because the views from the top are hard to tear yourself away from. There are informative displays throughout and picnic areas and restrooms within the crater rim.
Planning tip: Though you’ll pass through a tunnel on your way to the top, there’s no shade on the summit. Bring a hat, sunscreen and plenty of water – you can refill your water bottle at the drinking fountains up top.
2. Eat, drink and be merry
If you’re planning to visit Hawaii in the fall, it’s worth timing your vacation in line with the Hawaii Food & Wine Festival (October 30th to November 2nd in 2025). Get to know the work of talented local chefs, Michelin-starred legends and well-known bartenders from O’ahu and beyond at several different events, all while devouring fresh, homegrown foods.
The focus is all about locally sourced produce and products – a true celebration of Hawaiian culture and entrepreneurship. Leaders in the hospitality industry flock here from all over the world to discover exciting new food trends and ingredients; arrive hungry and join them for four days of gastronomic delights.
Planning tip: If you’re curious about a culinary career, there are lots of expert-led workshops and classes that provide insight into the realities of training as a chef and running a successful kitchen.
3. Help keep this sacred land beautiful
Take some time out of your vacation to volunteer with Mālama Hawai‘i, a program that encourages travelers to learn about island culture and give back while doing something outside of the touristy norm. Many hotels are part of the statewide effort, including the Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa in Honolulu. Guests can learn about growing taro, one of the most important cultural foods, or help repair woven thatch homes in exchange for a discount on their accommodations.
Beyond the city, other Mālama Hawai’i activities include a helicopter tour with Paradise Helicopters, complete with a private landing and the chance to plant a native tree while learning how to heal the land. You can also join a 2-hour eco-adventure at Kualoa Ranch Private Nature Reserve, 4000 acres of land you might recognize from Jurassic Park, Jumanji and Godzilla. As part of a small group, you’ll hear about the importance of upland ahupua‘a streams, the dangers of micro-plastics and how to help protect the natural beauty of the islands.
4. Enjoy a local sweet treat that’s worth waiting for
Stopping by Holey Grail Donuts for a treat is an absolute must. If you have time to wait in line, that is. The popular eatery, created by brother-and-sister duo Nile and Hana Dreiling, often has a line because they make each piping-hot donut to order. What makes this $4.50 treat so special? Its base is made from taro, a native Hawaiian superfood that is pounded and fermented, giving the donuts a fluffy interior with a crisp exterior (since it’s fried in coconut oil).
The fun flavors change often, but be prepared for creative options like freshly picked lilikoi, dragonfruit lemonade and honey cream pineapple with Thai basil. Props to this clever farm-to-dough operation for making Instagram-worthy delicacies. If you’re on Kaua’i, you can also grab donuts at the original food truck.
Planning tip: Stop by after the morning rush to avoid spending too much time in line.
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5. Get caught up in creativity
Wander through exciting exhibits and rooms boasting staggering works of art at The Honolulu Museum of Art, home to pop-up installations and a summer nights program complete with a DJ and hands-on workshops. Grab a bite at the excellent on-site cafe or spread a blanket on the lawn to enjoy some live music. There are even late-night events every Friday that allow visitors to view the art after dark and stargaze in the courtyards.
The Capitol Modern, in the stately No. 1 Capitol District Building, is an awesome way to spend a morning or even most of the day. Admission is free, and there are hands-on activities throughout the year. If you’re in town on the first Friday of the month, pop by to enjoy live music in the sculpture garden and lots of family-friendly action until 9pm.
Detour: When you’re finished with the museums, take to the streets and find as many outdoor murals as possible; there are several blocks sporting colorful street art.
6. Learn the local art of flower crowns
Floral headdresses have a long history in Hawaii. Paiko, a botanical boutique in the Kaka’ako neighborhood, celebrates these works of art known as the haku lei. Sign up for a 2-hour private session where you can make a tropical crown full of fresh flowers (think anthuriums and orchids) and gorgeous foliage (ferns and eucalyptus). Plant materials are locally sourced, and the maximum class size is ten.
There are also classes about succulents, bonsai shaping and ulana lau niu, the Hawaiian ancient art of weaving coconut fronds. Pick up some gifts, like coconut planters, locally made soap and jewelry, while you’re there. The Happy Haku offers private and group crown-making sessions, too.
7. Carve the waves and surf with a pro
If you are staying near Kaimana Beach and fancy taking to the waves, you’re in luck. One of the best and most decorated surfers in the world, Kai Sallas, has his own surf school located next to the Kaimana Beach Hotel. Born and raised in Waikiki, Kai learned everything he knows in these waters and his school welcomes both experienced surfers and newbies to the sport.
In fact, he deliberately picked this location as the waves are much more welcoming to beginners and don’t have the intimidating crowds found in Waikiki. There are also SUP lessons for all if you’re not ready to surf just yet. Top bragging rights and a wonderful experience for the whole family.
8. Take to the sea on a vintage yacht
Follow in the footsteps of the cast of The White Lotus by setting sail on a vintage yacht from Waikiki – the Vida Mia. Unlike the characters in the celebrated TV series who encountered dubious fortunes, you can choose between several delightful cruise options, including a sunrise sailing with a delicious breakfast and freshly roasted coffee and a sunset adventure with a chef-prepared meal, cocktails and live entertainment.
No matter the time of day, Vida Mia’s gleaming expanses of teak wood, stained glass accents and the porcelain bathtub below deck are a delight to experience without breaking your budget. Take in breathtaking ocean and island views (the sailing routes glide past Diamond Head State Monument) and maybe even spot a sea turtle or a whale.
Planning tip: Celebrating a special occasion? You can hire the entire boat privately for a snorkel and swim package, which includes a full bar and catered lunch.
9. View Islamic art from around the globe at Shangri La
Doris Duke, the late heiress and philanthropist, was renowned for her wealth and influence, but also had a deep appreciation of Islamic art. While traveling the world on her honeymoon, she became enthralled by Islamic and Moorish design and spent a lot of time (and money) acquiring artwork, stained glass, mosaics, sculptures and much more.
The last stop on the honeymoon was Honolulu and Doris decided to stay, such was her love for the area. Work then began on a 14,000-sq-ft estate that overlooked the ocean with a key missive to her designers – her collection of Islamic art was to influence everything and the home would be a showcase for it. And so, Shangri La came to be and remains a stunning exhibition of Islamic art and culture, as well as one of the most popular attractions in Honolulu.
Planning tip: Visits to Shangri La are operated by the Honolulu Museum of Art and must be booked in advance. There are four tours daily on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays; this is a popular attraction and tickets get snapped up quickly.
10. Shop the farmer’s market
There’s no shortage of amazing produce and island delicacies on O’ahu, as well as local culinary talent. Take your tastebuds on an adventure at Kaka‘ako Farmers Market, which is packed with incredible vendors every Saturday from 8am to noon.
Arrive hungry – the market has everything from fresh fruit, seafood and meat to cooked dishes, baked goods and delicious drinks. It’s the perfect spot to hit up if you’re visiting on a budget and need to cater some of your own meals. Stock up on quality produce and enjoy picnics throughout the week. There are even lots of artisan stalls selling artwork, carvings, textiles and jewelery; perfect for original keepsakes to inspire memories of your trip to Hawaii.
11. Learn about a pivotal moment in US history at Pearl Harbor
The bombing of Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, was one of the most devastating attacks on US soil and marked the nation’s entry into WWII. Learn more about this pivotal day and the wide-reaching impact it had on the community at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial. There are two superb museums that outline the incidents that led to the bombing and what came after, including first-person testimony and detailed photographs.
Visitors can also take a boat ride to the USS Arizona Memorial, a structure that straddles the hull of the battleship and pays tribute to the lives lost that day. Various ticket options are available for all three sites and it’s worth setting aside several hours to explore the memorial as a whole.
12. Relax and enjoy the waves in Waikiki
After a few days of exploring all the wonderful attractions that Honolulu has to offer, it’s time for some rest and relaxation. Grab your swimsuit and head to Waikiki, which was the Hawaiian royal family’s favorite stretch of sand in the 1800s. It wasn’t long before stories about the beauty of this bay spread far and wide, and it’s now one of the most popular tourist spots in Hawaii.
Backed by international luxury hotels and restaurants, there is still a strong connection to Hawaiian culture here – stop by the beloved Duke Kahanamoku Statue to pay tribute to a local hero who brought home Hawaii’s first gold Olympic medal. As the godfather of modern surfing, Duke would approve of the masses that arrive here to make the most of the incredible waves. Unsurprisingly, this is an incredibly popular spot and not ideal for beginners.