Honolulu, USA

Travel Guide: Honolulu, USA

Introduction

Honolulu, the capital city of Hawaii, is a tropical paradise known for its stunning beaches, lush greenery, and rich cultural heritage. As a popular tourist destination, Honolulu offers a wide range of activities, attractions, and experiences that cater to diverse interests and preferences.

Places to Visit

1. Pearl Harbor and USS Arizona Memorial

  • Address: 1239 Shipwreck Lane, Honolulu, HI 96818
  • Phone: (808) 453-5810
  • Hours: 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Admission: $15 Adults; Free for Children under 3 years old

The USS Arizona Memorial is a poignant tribute to the lives lost during the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941. Take a boat tour to the memorial, and be sure to visit the USS Missouri Battleship Museum.

2. Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve

  • Address: 745 Kapwaihapa Road, Honolulu, HI 96825
  • Phone: (808) 397-5840
  • Hours: 6:00 AM - 4:30 PM
  • Admission: $12 Adults; Free for Children under 13 years old

Explore the underwater world of Hanauma Bay, a protected marine sanctuary and one of the best snorkeling spots in Hawaii. Be sure to book your tickets in advance.

3. Diamond Head State Monument

  • Address: 1 Stewardshire Drive, Honolulu, HI 96825
  • Phone: (808) 587-0065
  • Hours: 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM
  • Admission: $10 Adults; Free for Children under 3 years old

Climb to the summit of Diamond Head, an iconic volcanic crater and one of Hawaii’s most recognizable landmarks. Enjoy breathtaking views of Honolulu and the ocean.

4. Waikiki Beach

  • Address: Kalakaua Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96815
  • Phone: (808) 924-1047
  • Hours: 24/7

Waikiki Beach is a lively stretch of coastline lined with high-rise hotels, restaurants, and shops. Enjoy the sun, sand, and surf, or take a stroll along the beachfront promenade.

5. Nuuanu Pali State Park

  • Address: 41-162 Kalanianaole Highway, Honolulu, HI 96825
  • Phone: (808) 587-0065
  • Hours: 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM
  • Admission: $10 Adults; Free for Children under 3 years old

Explore the rugged coastline and lush tropical forests of Nuuanu Pali State Park. Be sure to visit the Nuuanu Pali Lookout, a stunning viewpoint with breathtaking views.

Activities

1. Surfing and Beach Activities

  • Visit Duke’s Waikiki, a surf school and beach bar that offers surfing lessons and rentals.
  • Take a surfboard or paddleboard lesson from one of the many local instructors.
  • Enjoy beach activities like swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.

2. Outdoor Adventures

  • Go hiking in the lush tropical forests of Manoa Falls or Waimea Valley.
  • Explore the beautiful coastline on a kayak or stand-up paddleboard tour.
  • Take a helicopter tour for a bird’s-eye view of Honolulu and the surrounding islands.

3. Cultural Experiences

  • Visit the Bishop Museum, one of Hawaii’s largest and most comprehensive museums.
  • Attend a traditional Hawaiian luau, which includes food, music, and dancing.
  • Learn about Hawaiian history and culture at the Polynesian Cultural Center.

Where to Eat

1. Traditional Hawaiian Cuisine

  • Visit Helena’s Hawaiian Food, a local institution that serves traditional Hawaiian dishes like laulau and kalua pig.
  • Try some poke bowls at Ono Seafood, a popular spot for fresh and sustainable seafood.
  • Enjoy some shaved ice at Giovanni’s Shave Ice, a Honolulu favorite.

2. International Cuisine

  • Visit Alan Wong’s Honolulu, a renowned restaurant that serves modern Hawaiian cuisine with international flavors.
  • Try some Japanese food at Sushi Sasabune, a highly-rated sushi spot.
  • Enjoy some Italian food at Bistro Walk on the Beach, a beachfront restaurant with stunning views.

3. Breakfast and Brunch

  • Visit The Crab Shack, a popular breakfast spot that serves fresh seafood and eggs.
  • Try some breakfast burritos at The Breakfast Club, a trendy spot for morning eats.
  • Enjoy some brunch at The Pig & The Lady, a Vietnamese-French fusion restaurant.

Where to Stay

1. Luxury Hotels

  • Visit the Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina, a luxurious beachfront resort with stunning views and top-notch amenities.
  • Try the Royal Hawaiian, a historic luxury hotel that offers elegant accommodations and exceptional service.
  • Enjoy some of the best dining and entertainment options at the Moana Surfrider, a luxurious beachfront hotel.

2. Mid-Range Hotels

  • Visit the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort, a comfortable mid-range hotel with modern amenities and great views.
  • Try the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa, a convenient mid-range hotel that offers great dining options and beautiful beaches.
  • Enjoy some of the best surfing and beach activities at the Turtle Bay Resort, a mid-range hotel with stunning ocean views.

3. Budget-Friendly Options

  • Visit the Hostel World Bazaar Waikiki, a budget-friendly hostel with shared rooms and common spaces.
  • Try the Waikiki Beachside Accommodations, a budget-friendly hotel that offers simple but clean and comfortable accommodations.
  • Enjoy some of the best budget-friendly options at the Ilikai Hotel & Suites, a budget-friendly hotel with modern amenities and stunning ocean views.

Things to Know

1. Weather

  • Honolulu has a tropical climate with high temperatures and humidity throughout the year.
  • Be sure to pack light and breathable clothing, as well as sunscreen and sunhats for outdoor activities.
  • Enjoy the beautiful weather and take advantage of outdoor activities like surfing and snorkeling.

2. Transportation

  • Visit the Honolulu International Airport, a major airport that offers flights from around the world.
  • Use public transportation or ride-sharing services to get around town, as parking can be limited in some areas.
  • Enjoy some of the best scenic views on a bike tour or by renting a car and exploring the island.

3. Safety

  • Be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions when walking alone at night.
  • Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps to get around town, as some unlicensed taxis may operate in Honolulu.
  • Enjoy some of the best security options at luxury hotels and resorts, which often have 24-hour security and on-site amenities.

Tips

1. Be Respectful

  • Visit local museums and cultural centers to learn about Hawaiian history and culture.
  • Attend traditional Hawaiian events and festivals to experience local traditions and customs.
  • Enjoy some of the best local cuisine at family-owned restaurants and food trucks.

2. Be Prepared

  • Pack light and breathable clothing, as well as sunscreen and sunhats for outdoor activities.
  • Bring comfortable shoes for walking and hiking in Honolulu’s beautiful tropical forests.
  • Enjoy some of the best outdoor activities like surfing and snorkeling with proper gear and knowledge.

3. Have Fun!

  • Visit some of Honolulu’s most iconic landmarks, such as Pearl Harbor and Diamond Head State Monument.
  • Take a surfboard or paddleboard lesson from one of the many local instructors.
  • Enjoy some of the best local cuisine at family-owned restaurants and food trucks.

Additional Information

1. Emergency Services

  • Visit the Honolulu Police Department website for information on emergency services, such as police and fire stations.
  • Call 911 in case of a medical or life-threatening emergency.
  • Enjoy some of the best security options at luxury hotels and resorts, which often have 24-hour security and on-site amenities.

2. Tourist Information

  • Visit the Hawaii Tourism Authority website for information on tourist attractions, events, and activities.
  • Call the Honolulu Visitor Information Center for help planning your trip or answering questions about local attractions.
  • Enjoy some of the best local cuisine at family-owned restaurants and food trucks.

3. Local Events

  • Attend traditional Hawaiian events and festivals to experience local traditions and customs.
  • Visit the Honolulu Festival website for information on upcoming events and performances.
  • Enjoy some of the best live music and entertainment options in Honolulu’s many bars, clubs, and restaurants.