Honolulu

The Ultimate Guide to Traveling in Honolulu

Table of Contents

  1. Places to Visit
  2. Activities and Adventures
  3. Food and Drink
  4. Accommodations
  5. Things to Know
  6. Transportation
  7. Tips and Tricks
  8. Other Things to Do

Places to Visit

Honolulu, the capital city of Hawaii, is a paradise for travelers. From beautiful beaches to historic landmarks, there’s no shortage of exciting places to explore.

Beaches

  • Waikiki Beach: A iconic beach in the heart of Honolulu, known for its white sand and crystal-clear waters.
  • Hanauma Bay: A protected marine sanctuary and one of the best snorkeling spots in Hawaii.
  • Kailua Beach: A quieter beach on the windward coast, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

Historic Landmarks

  • Iolani Palace: The only royal palace in the United States, built in 1882 for King Kalakaua.
  • Pearl Harbor: A historic naval base where the USS Arizona Memorial is located.
  • Bishop Museum: A museum showcasing Hawaiian history and culture.

Other Attractions

  • Diamond Head State Monument: An ancient volcano and one of Hawaii’s most iconic landmarks.
  • Hawaii Children’s Discovery Center: A interactive children’s museum with hands-on exhibits.
  • Honolulu Zoo: A 42-acre zoo featuring a variety of animals, including monkeys, giraffes, and lions.

Activities and Adventures

From surfing to hiking, there are plenty of exciting activities to enjoy in Honolulu.

Water Sports

  • Surfing: Catch waves at Waikiki Beach or take a lesson from one of the many surf schools.
  • Snorkeling: Explore Hanauma Bay or other nearby snorkeling spots.
  • Kayaking: Paddle through calm waters and explore hidden coves.

Land Activities

  • Hiking: Discover hidden waterfalls, scenic views, and historic sites on hiking trails throughout Honolulu.
  • Golfing: Tee off at one of the many golf courses in the area.
  • Shopping: Visit iconic shopping centers like Ala Moana Center or Royal Hawaiian Center.

Food and Drink

Honolulu is a melting pot of cuisines, with a focus on fresh seafood, local produce, and traditional Hawaiian dishes.

Restaurants

  • The Pig and The Lady: A popular restaurant serving creative Vietnamese cuisine.
  • Alan Wong’s Honolulu: A renowned chef’s restaurant offering modern Hawaiian cuisine.
  • Ono Seafood: A casual eatery serving fresh poke bowls and other seafood delicacies.

Food Trucks

  • Honolulu’s Best Food Truck: Try traditional Hawaiian dishes like laulau, kalua pig, or haupia (coconut milk dessert).
  • Aloha Shave Ice: Enjoy a refreshing shave ice with unique flavors and toppings.

Accommodations

From luxury resorts to budget-friendly hostels, Honolulu has a wide range of accommodations to suit every traveler’s needs.

Luxury Resorts

  • The Royal Hawaiian Hotel: A historic hotel located on Waikiki Beach.
  • The Moana Surfrider Hotel: A luxurious hotel with stunning ocean views.
  • The Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina: An upscale resort with private beaches and amenities.

Budget-Friendly Options

  • Hostel Honolulu: A social hostel with dorms and private rooms.
  • Guest House Waikiki: A budget-friendly guest house with shared facilities.
  • Hotel Renew: A boutique hotel with modern rooms and a rooftop pool.

Things to Know

Before traveling to Honolulu, here are some essential things to know:

Weather

  • Hurricane season: Avoid visiting from June to November when hurricane season is active.
  • Heat and humidity: Be prepared for hot temperatures and high humidity throughout the year.

Culture

  • Respect local customs: Learn about Hawaiian culture and traditions, especially when visiting sacred sites or participating in ceremonies.
  • Use of sunscreen: Protect yourself with sunscreen and sun hats to avoid skin damage from the strong Hawaiian sun.

Safety

  • Be aware of your surroundings: Keep an eye on your belongings and be mindful of pickpocketing and scams.
  • Swim safely: Check rip currents, warning flags, and lifeguards before swimming at beaches.

Transportation

Getting around Honolulu is relatively easy, with a range of transportation options available.

Public Transportation

  • TheBus: A public bus system that covers most areas in Honolulu.
  • Honolulu Airport Shuttle: A convenient service connecting the airport to Waikiki Beach and other nearby hotels.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing

  • Taxis: Available at airports, hotels, and designated taxi stands.
  • Uber and Lyft: Ride-sharing services operating throughout Honolulu.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some insider tips to enhance your experience in Honolulu:

Book Early

  • Hotel bookings: Secure accommodations early, especially during peak travel seasons (December to April).
  • Restaurant reservations: Make dining reservations for popular restaurants at least a week in advance.

Be Prepared

  • Sunscreen and sun hats: Protect yourself from the strong Hawaiian sun.
  • Swimwear and towels: Bring your own swim gear or rent them at beaches.

Respect Local Environment

  • Recycle and reduce waste: Help preserve Hawaii’s natural beauty by minimizing waste and participating in local recycling programs.
  • Protect marine life: Avoid touching or standing on coral reefs, and never feed fish or other wildlife.

Other Things to Do

Beyond the main attractions and activities, there are plenty of hidden gems to explore in Honolulu:

Visit Local Markets

  • Honolulu Fish Auction Market: Watch fishermen auction off fresh seafood.
  • KCC Farmers’ Market: Explore local produce, artisanal goods, and food vendors.

Attend Cultural Events

  • Merrie Monarch Festival: A prestigious hula dance competition showcasing traditional Hawaiian dance.
  • Prince Jonah Kuhio Day: Celebrate the life of a Hawaiian prince with cultural performances and festivities.

With this comprehensive guide, you’re ready to explore the beauty and magic of Honolulu!