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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Taormina Sicilian Cuisine
Elegant, modern restaurant serving Southern Sicilian fare & an extensive wine selection.
Tantalus Lookout - Puu Ualakaa State Park
Scenic lookout featuring striking views of the Diamond Head volcano cone & the Waikiki skyline.
via Google MapsPearl Harbor Tours
Lānaʻi Lookout
Popular lookout point featuring panoramic views of the ocean, cliffs & neighboring islands.
King Kamehameha I Statue
Dedicated in 1883, this famous 18-ft bronze statue depicts the first king of the Hawaiian islands.
Ross Dress for Less
Retail chain selling brand-name clothing, shoes, accessories & housewares at discount prices.
Dolphins and You
The Magical Mystery Show!
Maguro Spot
Waikīkī Beach
Palm-lined beach overlooked by high-rise hotels, with a statue of surf legend Duke Paoa Kahanamoku.
Heavenly Island Lifestyle
Hawaiian fare made with local, organic ingredients in a cozy cafe with indoor and outdoor seating.
Cajun Crab Waikiki
Consolidated Theatres Ward with TITAN LUXE
Local cinema chain founded in 1917 featuring first-run films, 3D capabilities & bargain matinees.
Great Big Game Show Honolulu
Sweet E's Café
French toast & other breakfast/brunch dishes in a cozy space with comfy-chic decor.
via Google MapsTeddy's Bigger Burgers
Colorful Hawaii-based fast-food chain serving creative burgers, plus sandwiches, fries & ice cream.
KCC Farmers’ Market
Farmers' market bringing together produce, flowers & local food vendors on Saturdays.
Oahu Mexican Grill (OMG)
Casual, beachfront eatery featuring burritos, tacos, and other Mexican eats, plus slushie margaritas.
Moku Kitchen
Cool, creative eatery serving locally sourced, modern American fare & cocktails, plus live music.
Island Vintage Coffee Waikiki
Breakfast, homestyle meals, and healthy bowls served in a laid-back eatery.