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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Denny's Restaurant
Casual diner chain dishing up classic American comfort fare, including all-day breakfast favorites.
via Google MapsRoberts Hawaii
Ruth's Chris Steak House
Outpost of upmarket steakhouse chain known for sizzling, butter-topped beef in an elegant setting
Sushi Spot Waikiki
Koko Marina Center
Shopping center with boutiques, restaurants, water sports, a movie theater & more.
via Google MapsDiamond Head
Iconic volcanic peak, home to hiking trails & remains of historical military fortifications.
via Google MapsHighway Inn Kaka'ako
Upbeat, casual spot dishing up an all-day menu of traditional Hawaiian fare for eat-in or takeout.
via Google MapsH2O Sports Hawaii
via Google MapsMacy's
Department store chain providing brand-name clothing, accessories, home furnishings & housewares.
Chart House Waikiki
Steaks & seafood headline at this laid-back option featuring nightly entertainment & marina views.
Steak Shack
Located close to the beach, this basic food stand serves breakfast & all-day steak plates.
House Without A Key
Live Hawaiian dancing & music under the stars paired with inventive island cocktails & pupus.
via Google MapsWhole Foods Market
Eco-minded chain with natural & organic grocery items, housewares & other products (most sell wine).
via Google MapsM.A.C. 24/7 Restaurant and Bar
Upscale hotel diner with modern American cuisine, eclectic entrees, jumbo pancakes, and a chic bar.
Waffle and Berry
Counter-service eatery in Ohana Hale Marketplace featuring made-to-order waffles and açai bowls.
via Google MapsSafeway
Longtime supermarket chain carrying brand-name & house-label groceries, plus a deli, bakery & more.
via Google MapsOno Seafood
Locals flock to this no-frills eatery for the variety of ahi poke & a chill, laid-back atmosphere.
via Google MapsDiamond Head State Monument
A historic hiking trail leads visitors to this iconic summit, with panoramic ocean & city views.
via Google MapsMcDonald's
Classic, long-running fast-food chain known for its burgers & fries.
Safeway
Longtime supermarket chain carrying brand-name & house-label groceries, plus a deli, bakery & more.