Honolulu is the perfect destination for the tropical island getaway you’ve always dreamed of. Hawaii’s stunning state capital combines a delightful mix of culture, cuisine, language and history against the backdrop of one of the world’s most exquisite tropical islands. All of this topped off, of course, with the famous Hawaiian hospitality!You won’t have to wait long before you’re sporting a colourful lei around your neck and listening to strumming ukuleles with a cocktail in your hand. Honolulu is also the perfect base for visiting Hawaii’s world-famous beaches, with some of the Pacific’s most incredible coastlines within an easy ride of the city. Warm your bones on the beautiful white sands of Waikiki Beach, and take a dip in the cool, turquoise waters before dining out at one of the multitude of fine restaurants. If it’s great snorkelling you’re after then take a trip to Hanuama Bay Nature Reserve or Halona Beach, aptly known as Eternity Beach.Another unmissable outdoor highlight is a hike up the Diamond Head volcano. Don’t worry, it’s long extinct, and the views from the top will take your breath away! Honolulu may be a perfect holiday destination but it is also a thriving metropolis and home to over one million people of mostly Asian descent, making it a hotbed of culinary diversity. Foodies will find no shortage of deluxe fusion eateries and low-cost noodle joints but no trip to the city would be complete without sampling some of the local Polynesian delicacies. Laulau (pork wrapped in taro leaves) and poke (a raw fish salad) are just two of the incredible taste experiences waiting to be discovered.Downtown Honolulu also plays host to some of Hawaii’s most historic sites and best-loved cultural attractions. A stroll around this compact area is a joy, with art galleries, temples, cafés and night spots around every corner. The Ala Moana Center is particularly popular for its open-air stalls, while a visit to Iolani Palace, the U.S.’s only royal palace, is an interesting glimpse into Polynesian culture. For many visitors, the highlight of their stay is a trip to Pearl Harbor, scene of one of the most famous battles of World War II. The USS Arizona Memorial offers a poignant reminder of the site’s significance as well as views of the sunken ship.This city’s mesmerising blend of history, culture and rare, natural splendour will make your holiday in Honolulu the tropical trip of a lifetime.
Honolulu Travel Guide
Where to stay in Honolulu
Waikiki
Waikiki Beach Walk and Waikiki Beach are just a few worthwhile attractions to visit in Waikiki. Travellers also love the stunning beaches, island views and popular shops.
Ala Moana
If you're spending some time in Ala Moana, Ala Moana Center and Magic Island are top sights worth seeing.
Diamond Head - Kapahulu - St. Louis
If you're spending some time in Diamond Head - Kapahulu - St. Louis, Waikiki Beach and Ala Wai Golf Course are top sights worth seeing.
Western Honolulu
Known for its abundant dining options and waterfront views, there's plenty to explore in Western Honolulu. Top attractions like Honolulu Harbor and Navy Exchange Mall are major draws, and you can catch the metro at Hālawa / Aloha Stadium Station or Pouhala / Waipahu Transit Center Station to see more of the city.
Eastern Honolulu
The pristine beaches and ample dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Eastern Honolulu. A stop by Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve or Kahala Beach might round out your trip.
Downtown Honolulu
Unique features of Downtown Honolulu include the shopping and beaches. Make a stop by Honolulu Harbor or King Kamehameha Statue while you're exploring the area.
Reviewed on 11 May 2024
Reviewed on 10 May 2024
Reviewed on 10 May 2024
Reviewed on 25 Apr. 2024
Reviewed on 9 May 2024
Reviewed on 15 Mar. 2024
Popular places to visit
Waikiki Beach
Nowhere sums up the spirit of Hawaii more powerfully than its world-famous beach – so grab your swimming gear and prepare to be wowed by Waikiki!
Ala Moana Center
You can find the perfect gifts to bring home with a trip to Ala Moana Center, a popular shopping spot in Honolulu. Discover the area's beautiful sunsets or seek out its surfing spots.
International Market Place
You can browse for souvenirs with a trip to International Market Place, a favourite shopping spot in Honolulu. Wander the beautiful beaches or discover the area's beautiful sunsets.
Honolulu Harbor
Explore the waterfront in Honolulu with a trip to Honolulu Harbor. Amble around the area's beaches or visit its shops.
Royal Hawaiian Center
You can browse for souvenirs with a trip to Royal Hawaiian Center, a favourite shopping spot in Honolulu. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or discover the area's beautiful sunsets.
Honolulu Zoo
Make friends with the meerkats, chat with the cheetahs and play with the pot-bellied pigs at one of the island’s favourite destinations.
Reviews of Honolulu
3/5 - Okay
Over rated
5/5 - Excellent
Lovely place for a holiday.
5/5 - Excellent
Great holiday destination
5/5 - Excellent
I love how vibrant and relaxing it is to stay there with loads to see and do or just do nothing but swim and relax
3/5 - Okay
This time we found it has become very upmarket, very expensive and it has lost a lot of its character.
5/5 - Excellent
Loved it amazing place will return for sure
- Waikiki Beach
- Waikiki Beach Walk
- Ala Moana Center
- International Market Place
- Royal Hawaiian Center
- Honolulu Zoo
- Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
- University of Hawaii at Manoa
- Diamond Head
- USS Arizona Memorial
- Ala Moana Beach Park
- Iolani Palace
- Aloha Tower Marketplace
- Queen Kapiʻolani Regional Park
- Magic Island
- Bishop Museum
- Aloha Tower
- Pacific Aviation Museum Pearl Harbor
- Kahala Beach
- Duke Kahanamoku Beach
- USS Missouri Memorial