Top 10 Must-Visit Attractions in Honolulu, Hawaii

Things to Do in Honolulu

Dreaming of a trip to Honolulu? Every time summer rolls around, I picture Hawaii — emerald water, swaying palms, and the sound of hula music. As the gateway to the paradise island of Oahu in the middle of the Pacific, Honolulu offers an incredible variety of things to do in Honolulu, from the dazzling sands of Waikiki Beach to a volcanic crater, a royal palace, and world-class surf breaks. It’s a perennial favorite for honeymoons and family vacations alike. So today, so that even first-time visitors to Hawaii can make the most of their trip, I’ve rounded up the 10 best things to do in Honolulu. Let’s count them down from number 10!

10. Lanikai Beach

True to its name — which means “heavenly sea” — Lanikai Beach in the Kailua area on Oahu’s east side is a stretch of flour-soft white sand and crystal-clear emerald water. It’s a hidden gem that consistently lands on lists of America’s most beautiful beaches. The scene created by the twin “Mokulua” islands rising just offshore is a postcard come to life. Unlike bustling Waikiki, it stays quiet, making it perfect for a peaceful swim or a paddle in a kayak. Just note that parking is limited, so it’s best to arrive early in the morning.

9. Byodo-In Temple

Nestled at the foot of lush green mountains, Byodo-In Temple was built in 1968 as a replica of the thousand-year-old Byodo-in in Uji, Kyoto, Japan. It commemorates the 100th anniversary of the first Japanese immigrants to Hawaii. The red temple, a koi-filled pond, and a softly ringing bell come together to create a serene atmosphere that feels like a trip to Japan itself. Set within the “Valley of the Temples,” it boasts beautiful mountain scenery, and since it welcomes visitors of any faith, it’s hugely popular as a photo spot. Legend says ringing the large bell at the entrance brings good fortune, so don’t forget to give it a try.

8. Polynesian Cultural Center

Opened in 1963, the Polynesian Cultural Center is a large theme park where you can experience the cultures of Hawaii, Samoa, Tonga, Tahiti, and other Polynesian islands all in one place. In each village you can watch and take part in traditional dances, fire shows, and canoe pageants, and in the evening a hearty luau (a traditional Hawaiian feast) and dazzling show await. There’s so much to see that a whole day can fly by, making the trip up to Laie on Oahu’s northeast side well worth it. Since what’s included — the luau and the evening show — varies by ticket type, check carefully when you book.

7. Kualoa Ranch

Famous as the filming location for countless Hollywood movies like “Jurassic Park” and “Godzilla,” Kualoa Ranch is a spectacular place of jagged green peaks and sweeping valleys. You can enjoy a range of activities here — ATVs, ziplines, horseback riding, and even a “movie tour” bus that visits the actual filming sites. Standing before this majestic scenery, you’ll instantly understand why so many films chose it as a backdrop. It runs on a reservation system, so I recommend planning ahead. Popular tours sell out fast, so book early during peak season.

6. Iolani Palace

Located in downtown Honolulu, Iolani Palace is the only genuine royal palace on American soil. Completed in 1882, it was the actual home of the Hawaiian Kingdom’s last king and queen, and it was a state-of-the-art building that had electricity and telephones even before the White House did. As you tour its opulent interior and royal artifacts, it hits home that Hawaii was once an independent kingdom of its own. If you’re curious about Hawaii’s deep history, this is a must-visit. The interior can only be seen on a guided tour, so allow a little extra time.

5. North Shore

Stretching along Oahu’s northern coast, the North Shore is a world-renowned mecca of surfing. In winter, house-sized waves pound spots like Waimea Bay, and legendary surf contests take place. In summer, by contrast, the waves calm down, making it great for snorkeling and swimming, and if you’re lucky you may spot a green sea turtle resting on the rocks along the shore. A plate of garlic shrimp from the area’s shrimp trucks is a local specialty too good to miss, so be sure to try it. It’s about an hour’s drive from the city, so it’s perfect to set aside a full day and make a road trip of it.

4. Hanauma Bay

A crescent-shaped bay formed when a volcanic crater collapsed, Hanauma Bay is regarded as Oahu’s finest snorkeling spot. The shallow, calm water is full of colorful coral and tropical fish, so the moment you put on a mask, an aquarium unfolds before your eyes. To protect nature, it limits daily entry to about 1,000 visitors and runs on advance reservations, so booking before you go is essential. You’ll also have to watch a short conservation video before entering, but that’s exactly why the water stays so pristine. Note that it’s closed on certain days of the week, so check ahead to avoid a wasted trip.

3. Pearl Harbor

Pearl Harbor is the historic site of the attack on December 7, 1941, that changed the course of World War II. The “USS Arizona Memorial,” built atop the battleship that sank that day, is still visited by countless people who come to honor the fallen. Standing on the white memorial floating above the water, you can’t help but feel a solemn reverence. You can also tour the related museums and a submarine exhibit, making it a special place that goes beyond sightseeing to reflect on history. Admission is free, but reservations are recommended. Security is strict and large bags aren’t allowed, so it’s easiest to bring as little as possible.

2. Diamond Head

Rising up behind Waikiki, Diamond Head is the volcanic crater that symbolizes Honolulu. A roughly 1.6-mile (2.6 km) round-trip trail leads to the summit; after passing through a dark 225-foot tunnel and a military bunker built in 1915, you reach the top, where a panorama of Waikiki Beach, the city, and the blue ocean spreads out before you. Climbing early in the morning is popular, as it’s cooler and you can catch the sunrise. It runs on advance reservations, so be sure to check before you visit. There’s almost no shade near the summit, so bring a hat, water, and comfortable shoes.

1. Waikiki Beach

The number-one of all things to do in Honolulu is, of course, a day at Waikiki Beach. The long golden sands set against Diamond Head are famous as the birthplace of modern surfing. Thanks to the gentle, warm waves, even beginners can learn to surf, and with hotels, shopping, and restaurants lining the shore, there’s never a dull moment all day long. A sunset under the palm trees and a hula performance complete the romance of a Hawaiian vacation. In the end, this is the spot where you’ll linger longest. On Friday nights, fireworks light up the water off the Hilton Hawaiian Village, so it’s worth timing your visit to catch them.

And that wraps up our Top 10 things to do in Honolulu — what did you think? With dazzling beaches, volcanoes, and Hawaii’s own history and culture, Oahu is so full of charm that even a stay of several days feels too short. Today’s ranking is my own subjective pick based on fame and accessibility, so please enjoy it as a fun reference for your trip planning rather than an official index. I hope your trip to Honolulu becomes a memory full of aloha, and I’ll be back soon with more great travel tips!