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
Add Your
Event
Share your event with the community.
Never Miss Out
Get the best events and local picks straight to your inbox.
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Things to do in Honolulu
Promote your
Business
Get featured and grow your business.
Add your
Event
Share your event with the community.
via Google MapsKahala Mall
Mall with boutiques, gift shops, eateries, salons & services, plus a movie theater & events.
via Google MapsLiliha Bakery
Bakery & diner since 1950, popular for its breakfasts, comfort food & coco puffs.
Duke Paoa Kahanamoku Statue
This 9-foot bronze sculpture honors the Hawaiian Olympic champion & father of international surfing.
via Google MapsDenny's Restaurant
Casual diner chain dishing up classic American comfort fare, including all-day breakfast favorites.
Liliha Bakery Nimitz
Bakery & diner since 1950, popular for its breakfasts, comfort food & coco puffs.
Paia Fish Market Waikiki
Kona Coffee Purveyors
A stylish spot for artisan Kona coffee and b. patisserie baked goods.
Queens Waikiki Luau
Eggs 'n Things Saratoga
Casual eatery with traditional breakfast/brunch staples featuring area-sourced ingredients & syrups.
USS Arizona Memorial
Maui Brewing Co. Waikiki
Star of Honolulu
Ka Moana Luau
Unique oceanfront dinner theater luau with Polynesian dancers & a tropical-themed buffet.
Waikiki Brewing Company - Waikiki
Pizzas, wings & BBQ whipped up in a laid-back venue with a lively bar & a 7-barrel brewery.
HawaiiTours.com
via Google MapsDFS Waikiki
Retail chain offering a selection of duty-free goods such as handbags, fragrances & more.
Waikiki Shopping Plaza
6-floor mall for international & Hawaiian designer clothing, jewelry & gifts, with a food court.
Wolfgang's Steakhouse Waikiki
Upscale chophouse chain serving dry-aged steaks, seafood & wine in an elegant setting.
DECK. at Queen Kapiʻolani Hotel
Upscale New American fare & craft cocktails served in a stylish, open-air space with a deck & views.
Barefoot Beach Cafe @ Queen's Surf Beach
Outdoor cafe has Hawaiian plates & standard American fare, plus live music & a weekend beach BBQ.