10 Awesome Things to Do in Honolulu Hawaii With Hidden Gems
Honolulu is the beating heart of Hawaii, a place where golden beaches meet emerald mountains, and modern city life flows effortlessly with island spirit. It’s the perfect destination for anyone seeking sunshine, adventure, culture, and relaxation all in one trip. From surfing world-famous waves to exploring lush jungle trails and historical landmarks, Honolulu offers something unforgettable for every kind of traveler and this guide to the 10 awesome things to do in Honolulu Hawaii will show you how to get most out of your trip there!
Overview
Located on the southeastern shore of Oahu, Honolulu is both the state capital and Hawaii’s most vibrant destination. The city is famous for Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head Crater, and Pearl Harbor, but its magic lies beyond the tourist hotspots, in the hidden hikes, scenic lookouts, and local eateries tucked between volcanic ridges and ocean shores. Whether you’re after a luxury getaway, a cultural escape, or a nature-filled adventure, Honolulu offers an experience unlike anywhere else in the world.
How to Get There
Honolulu is served by Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL), which receives nonstop flights from nearly every major U.S. city, as well as destinations across Asia, Australia, and the Pacific. Once you land, the best way to explore is by renting a car — it gives you the freedom to explore beaches, hiking trails, and small coastal towns beyond the city.
Public transportation (TheBus) is reliable for getting around Honolulu itself, and ride-shares are widely available. However, if you plan to see the island’s natural highlights, like Lanikai, Hanauma Bay, or the North Shore, a car rental is well worth it.
10 Best Things to Do in Honolulu, Hawaii
1. Waikiki Beach
No trip to Honolulu is complete without a day (or several) at Waikiki Beach. Known for its calm surf, soft golden sand, and iconic Diamond Head backdrop, it’s the city’s most famous stretch of coastline. You can take a surf lesson, go outrigger canoeing, or simply relax under a palm tree and watch the sunset paint the sky. In the evenings, street performers and live music fill Kalakaua Avenue with energy.
2. Diamond Head Crater
Hike to the top of this ancient volcanic crater for panoramic views of the Honolulu skyline and Pacific Ocean. The 1.6-mile round-trip trail is short but steep, featuring a series of switchbacks and stairs that lead to one of Oahu’s best viewpoints. Arrive early to avoid crowds and catch the soft morning light over Waikiki — it’s a photographer’s dream.
3. Pearl Harbor National Memorial
Step back in time at this deeply moving historic site. The USS Arizona Memorial honors the lives lost during the December 7, 1941 attack, while exhibits at the Battleship Missouri and Pacific Aviation Museum offer insight into World War II’s Pacific history. Plan to spend half a day here to explore the grounds and exhibits fully.
4. Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
Formed inside a volcanic crater, Hanauma Bay is one of Hawaii’s best snorkeling destinations. The shallow, turquoise waters are home to vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish. To protect this fragile ecosystem, reservations and an entry fee are required, and the preserve is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Bring reef-safe sunscreen and enjoy a peaceful underwater world just 25 minutes from Waikiki.
5. Manoa Falls Trail
Just minutes from downtown Honolulu lies this lush rainforest hike leading to a 150-foot waterfall. The trail is about 1.6 miles round-trip and winds through bamboo groves and tropical foliage. It’s best visited in the morning when the mist lingers through the valley, adding a touch of magic to your photos. Wear sturdy shoes — the path can be muddy after rain.
6. Iolani Palace
The only royal palace in the United States, Iolani Palace offers a rare glimpse into Hawaii’s royal past. Once home to King Kalākaua and Queen Liliʻuokalani, the palace is now a beautifully restored museum filled with elegant furnishings, historic artifacts, and guided tours that reveal the rich story of Hawaii’s monarchy and its cultural transformation.
7. Ala Moana Center
Honolulu isn’t just beaches — it’s also home to the largest open-air shopping mall in the world. Ala Moana Center offers everything from designer boutiques to local Hawaiian brands, plus a variety of restaurants and cultural performances. It’s a great place to cool off, grab a meal, and pick up souvenirs before heading back to the beach.
8. Koko Crater Railway Trail
For a heart-pounding workout and one of the best panoramic views on Oahu, climb the Koko Crater Railway Trail. The hike follows an old railway track straight up the crater — over 1,000 wooden steps in total. The challenge is steep, but the reward is a sweeping view of the coastline and Hanauma Bay from above.
9. Honolulu Museum of Art
Escape the crowds for an afternoon at the Honolulu Museum of Art, home to an impressive collection of Asian, Pacific, and Western art. The tranquil courtyards and galleries provide a perfect balance to the city’s energy. It’s a quiet spot for reflection and a great way to connect with Hawaii’s creative side.
10. Magic Island at Ala Moana Beach Park
End your trip with a classic Honolulu sunset at Magic Island — a manmade peninsula that offers incredible views of the ocean and Diamond Head. Locals gather here for picnics, paddleboarding, and evening strolls, making it the perfect place to soak in that final bit of aloha before heading home.
Hidden Gems
- Lanikai Pillbox Hike – A short yet breathtaking sunrise trek with postcard views of turquoise waters and the Mokulua Islands.
- Byodo-In Temple – A peaceful Buddhist temple in the Valley of the Temples, surrounded by koi ponds and lush gardens.
- China Walls – A local favorite cliffside lookout for sunsets and surf-watching.
- Kaimuki Neighborhood – An under-the-radar foodie district with some of Oahu’s best cafés and hole-in-the-wall eateries.
- Tantalus Lookout – Offers panoramic nighttime views of Honolulu’s glittering skyline and Diamond Head.
Even More Things to do
7-Day Itinerary (with Hidden Gems Included)
Day 1: Arrive in Honolulu → Relax at Waikiki Beach → Stroll Kalakaua Avenue
Day 2: Hike Diamond Head → Explore Iolani Palace → Sunset at Magic Island
Day 3: Snorkel at Hanauma Bay → Hike Koko Crater → Dinner at Ala Moana
Day 4: Day trip to Byodo-In Temple → Lanikai Pillbox Hike → Explore Kailua Town
Day 5: Visit Pearl Harbor → Lunch in Kaimuki → Evening walk in Waikiki
Day 6: Manoa Falls → Honolulu Museum of Art → Night view at Tantalus Lookout
Day 7: Morning swim → Ala Moana shopping → Depart with aloha
Best Times to Visit
Honolulu enjoys warm weather year-round, but the best months to visit are April through October, when the days are sunny, dry, and ideal for outdoor adventures. The winter months (November to March) bring slightly cooler temperatures, bigger surf, and fewer tourists — perfect for exploring without the crowds.
For budget-friendly travel and balanced weather, visit during the spring (April–May) or fall (September–October) shoulder seasons.
Packing List
- Light breathable clothing
- Swimsuits and rash guard
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Lightweight rain jacket
- Hiking sandals or shoes
- Sun hat and sunglasses
- Snorkeling mask (optional)
- Reusable water bottle
- Small daypack
Where to Stay
| Area | Check Hotels |
|---|---|
| Waikiki | Check Hotels |
| Downtown Honolulu | Check Hotels |
| Ala Moana | Check Hotels |
| Kailua | Check Hotels |
Budget Tips
- Travel off-season (spring or fall) for cheaper flights and hotel rates.
- Book local vacation rentals or smaller boutique hotels instead of beachfront resorts.
- Eat like a local, food trucks and plate lunch spots offer great meals for under $15.
- Take advantage of free attractions like beaches, hikes, and cultural sites.
- Skip paid tours for self-guided adventures; Honolulu’s top spots are easy to access with a rental car.
- Bring your own snorkel gear to save on rentals, and refill a reusable water bottle instead of buying bottled water daily.
Travel Tips
- Reserve in advance: Hanauma Bay and Diamond Head require reservations — book early.
- Start early: Honolulu’s top attractions get busy, and parking fills quickly.
- Drive defensively: Local drivers are patient — adopt the island pace.
- Stay connected safely: If you plan to use public Wi-Fi in cafés, hotels, or airports, protect your data and browsing activity with NordVPN. It keeps your connection secure and private, especially when booking hotels or checking flight details online.
- Respect the ʻāina (land): Follow “Leave No Trace” principles, avoid touching coral, and pack out all trash.
- Tipping: 15–20% is standard at restaurants and for tour guides.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Honolulu’s weather can change quickly, pack light rain gear.
- Avoid touching coral or marine life when snorkeling.
- Locals appreciate when visitors learn a few Hawaiian words like mahalo (thank you) or aloha (hello/love).
- Always use reef-safe sunscreen to protect Hawaii’s fragile marine ecosystem.
- Island time is real, everything moves a little slower, so relax and enjoy the pace.
Related
Final Thoughts
Honolulu is more than a tropical city, it’s a living expression of Hawaii’s spirit, where natural beauty, history, and modern culture unite. Between the sunrises atop Diamond Head, the calm waters of Waikiki, and the sacred serenity of Byodo-In Temple, every moment invites you to slow down and embrace the aloha lifestyle. Whether you’re here for a week or just a few days, Honolulu will capture your heart and leave you dreaming of the islands long after you’ve returned home.
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