Things to do in Honolulu
Honolulu mixes city energy with island nature. You can hike a volcanic crater, tour historic sites from WWII, or simply settle into Waikiki for beach t…
Honolulu mixes city energy with island nature. You can hike a volcanic crater, tour historic sites from WWII, or simply settle into Waikiki for beach time and plate lunches. The range is wide—from museums and palaces to farmers’ markets and late-night clubs—so there’s usually something to match your mood.
Start with the classics: Diamond Head Crater Trailhead rewards hikers with panoramic views, while Pearl Harbor National Memorial and the USS Missouri (BB-63) - Battleship Museum bring history to life. For families, Honolulu Zoo and Waikiki Aquarium are easy wins, and Lucky Strike Honolulu adds bowling and arcades. Food is a highlight—Rainbow Drive-In serves iconic plate lunches, Nico’s Pier 38 focuses on local seafood, and Duke’s Waikiki offers beachfront dining. Shopping ranges from Ala Moana Center’s four levels to the open-air Waikiki Beach Walk. When the sun goes down, Blue Note Hawaii books jazz and blues, and spots like The District keep the nightlife going.
Frequently asked questions about Honolulu
What are the best outdoor things to do in Honolulu?▾
Diamond Head Crater Trailhead is the most famous hike, with a steady climb to sweeping views of the coast. For something less crowded, Mānoa Falls Trail leads through a rainforest to a waterfall, and Tantalus Lookout - Puu Ualakaa State Park offers skyline views without much effort. Ala Moana Regional Park has calm surf and plenty of grass for a picnic.
What can families do together in Honolulu?▾
The Honolulu Zoo spans 42 acres and has over 900 animals, and the Waikiki Aquarium showcases more than 3,000 marine creatures. For active fun, Lucky Strike Honolulu combines bowling with arcades, and Jungle Fun Island is built around kids’ games and prizes. Many restaurants, like Duke’s Waikiki and Rainbow Drive-In, welcome children.
Where can I get local Hawaiian food in Honolulu?▾
Rainbow Drive-In is a long-running spot for plate lunches—think BBQ, mahi mahi, and chili dogs. Nico’s Pier 38 focuses on locally sourced seafood with a French-Hawaiian twist, and Duke’s Waikiki serves surf ’n’ turf right on the beach. For a special evening, Ka Moana Luau combines Polynesian dancing with a buffet.
What historical sites should I visit in Honolulu?▾
Pearl Harbor National Memorial covers the 1941 attack on the harbor. The USS Missouri (BB-63) - Battleship Museum is where Japan’s surrender was signed, and Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum displays WWII aircraft. In town, Iolani Palace was home to Hawaii’s last monarchs, and the King Kamehameha I Statue honors the first king.
Are there good options for a night out in Honolulu?▾
Blue Note Hawaii brings in jazz, blues, and local acts with dinner service. For dancing, The District has three bars and a large dance floor, while Play Bar Night Club Waikiki keeps things simple with hip-hop and a full bar. If you prefer something low-key, Tikis Grill & Bar pairs tiki cocktails with live music and ocean views.
Upcoming events
Lady Cougar Volleyball @ McKinley
HOCO Assembly & Game
A Day
Football vs. Kaimukī @ Kaiser *HOCO*
HOCO Dance
Cross Country @ Kalani
Air Rifle vs. Kalani
Soft Tennis vs. Roosevelt & Kailua
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Things to do in Honolulu
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USS Missouri (BB-63) - Battleship Museum
Storied battleship, site of the official Japanese surrender in WWII, hosting exhibits, tours & more.
Diamond Head State Monument
A trail leads visitors to the summit of this volcanic tuff cone & former fort with panoramic views.
Pearl Harbor National Memorial
Site commemorating the 1941 Pearl Harbor attack, featuring USS Arizona Memorial, museum & galleries.
Walmart
Earls Kitchen + Bar - Waikiki
Sleek, upscale chain serving gourmet burgers, global comfort food, cocktails, wines & beers.
Leonard's Bakery
Local fixture since 1952 for malasadas (Portuguese donuts), breads, pastries & other sweets.
Diamond Head Crater Trailhead
Extinct volcano is a popular hiking destination with a rugged trail leading to panoramic views.
Marugame Udon
Guests order at the counter at this casual Japanese restaurant specializing in noodle soup.
Tikis Grill & Bar
Lively oceanfront restaurant featuring signature tiki cocktails along with live music.
Pearl Harbor Historic Sites Visitor Center
This still-active naval base is known for the 1941 attack by Japan that brought the U.S. into WWII.
Duke's Waikiki
Popular option known for its beachfront location, surf 'n' turf, tiki vibe & umbrella drinks.
Rainbow Drive-In
Iconic counter-serve spot for Hawaiian plate lunches features BBQ, mahi mahi, chili dogs & more.
International Market Place
Mall with high-end retail shops & a global food court, as well as events such as live music & hula.
Nico's Pier 38
Large waterside hub showcasing locally sourced seafood & dishes mixing French & Hawaiian styles.
Honolulu Zoo
Popular spot for families spanning 42 acres with lush gardens & over 900 animals.
Koko Head District Park
Sprawling collection of sports fields, gardens, picnic areas & stairs climbing a volcanic crater.
Don Quijote Honolulu
Convenience store with groceries & household items, plus take-out sushi & other prepared foods.
The Escape Game Honolulu
Royal Hawaiian Center
Upmarket retailer specializing in fine jewelry, gifts & luxury timepieces in classic designs.
Ala Moana Center
Upscale, four-level shopping mall with department stores, boutiques, a food court & restaurants.