Activities to Do in Honolulu, Hawaii

Honolulu, Hawaii is home to some of the most beautiful beaches, stunning scenery, and diverse culture in the United States. From snorkeling and surfing to hiking and kayaking, Honolulu offers a wide array of activities for visitors to enjoy. With its wonderful climate and abundant natural resources, Honolulu is an ideal destination for travelers looking for a unique and exciting experience. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a little bit of both, Honolulu has something for everyone.

A Brief History of Honolulu

Honolulu is the capital city of the Hawaiian Islands and was once the capital of the Kingdom of Hawaii. It is the most populous city in the state and is located on the island of Oahu. The city was founded in 1820 by British merchant John Young and is home to the historical Iolani Palace, which served as the home of Hawaiian royalty until 1893.

Today, Honolulu is home to over 400,000 people and is the center of Hawaii’s economy and government. In addition to being a popular tourist destination, Honolulu is also a major shipping port and a center of commerce and industry. The city is home to numerous cultural attractions, including the Bishop Museum and the Waikiki Aquarium.

Things to Do in Honolulu

There are countless activities for visitors to enjoy in Honolulu. Here are some of the most popular things to do in Honolulu:

Snorkeling and Surfing at Waikiki Beach

One of the most popular activities in Honolulu is snorkeling and surfing at Waikiki Beach. Waikiki Beach is one of the most iconic beaches in Hawaii and is home to some of the best waves in the world. Experienced surfers can take on challenging waves while beginners can take advantage of the gentler swells. The warm waters at Waikiki Beach are also a great place to snorkel, as they are home to a variety of fish and other marine life.

Hiking at Diamond Head State Monument

Diamond Head State Monument is one of the most popular hikes in Honolulu. The trail is a steep one-mile hike up to the summit of Diamond Head, where visitors can enjoy stunning views of Waikiki Beach and the Pacific Ocean. Along the way, hikers can also explore various tunnels, bunkers, and lava tubes that were built for defense purposes by ancient Hawaiians.

Kayaking at Kailua Bay

Kailua Bay is one of the best places in Honolulu for kayaking. The bay is protected by a coral reef which provides calm waters perfect for paddling. Kailua Bay is also home to a variety of marine life and an abundance of tropical fish, making it a great spot for snorkeling as well.

Exploring Chinatown

Honolulu’s Chinatown is a vibrant neighborhood full of shops, restaurants, galleries, and temples. Visitors can explore Chinatown’s colorful streets, browse through the markets, sample some of the delicious local cuisine, or explore one of the many temples scattered throughout the area. Chinatown is also home to many historic buildings, giving visitors a glimpse into Honolulu’s past.

Visiting Pearl Harbor

No trip to Honolulu would be complete without a visit to Pearl Harbor. This historic site is home to the USS Arizona Memorial, which commemorates those who lost their lives during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941. Visitors can also explore the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum or take a boat tour around Pearl Harbor’s other historic sites.

Attending a Luau

A visit to Honolulu would not be complete without attending a luau, which is a traditional Hawaiian feast accompanied by live music and hula dancing. Luaus are typically held outdoors and feature an array of island-style dishes such as poi (a traditional dish made from taro root), kalua pork (slow-roasted pork), lomi salmon (salmon with tomatoes and onions), laulau (meat wrapped in taro leaves), and more.

Tours in Honolulu

In addition to all these amazing activities, visitors to Honolulu can also take part in some amazing tours that will give them an even deeper insight into the city’s culture and history. Here are two popular tours that are sure to make your visit to Honolulu even more memorable:

Oahu Circle Island Tour

The Oahu Circle Island Tour is a great way to explore some of Oahu’s most breathtaking sights. The tour begins with a drive around the island’s south shore where you will see views of Diamond Head, Waikiki Beach, Hanauma Bay, Koko Head crater, Kahala Beach Park, and more. You will then head north along Oahu’s north shore where you will have time to stop at some of Hawaii’s most famous beaches such as Waimea Bay and Sunset Beach. The tour will also take you through charming towns such as Haleiwa and Laie before heading back to Waikiki. You can book an Oahu Circle Island Tour with Viator for an unforgettable experience!

Pearl Harbor and USS Arizona Memorial Tour

The Pearl Harbor and USS Arizona Memorial Tour is one of the most popular tours in Honolulu as it allows visitors to gain an understanding of this historic site and pay respect to those who lost their lives on December 7th 1941. The tour begins with a short movie about Pearl Harbor followed by a visit to the USS Arizona Memorial with its stunning views over Pearl Harbor. After exploring the memorial visitors will then head out on a narrated boat tour around Pearl Harbor which will take them past some of its most famous memorials such as Battleship Row, Ford Island, Fort Kamehameha, and more. You can book a Pearl Harbor and USS Arizona Memorial Tour with GetYourGuide for an unforgettable experience!

Conclusion

Honolulu is an amazing destination with plenty to offer visitors. From snorkeling and surfing at Waikiki Beach to hiking at Diamond Head State Monument and kayaking at Kailua Bay there’s something for everyone in this beautiful city. Visitors can also explore Chinatown’s vibrant streets or attend a traditional luau before visiting Pearl Harbor for some history lessons. And don’t forget to book a tour with Viator or GetYourGuide for an even more memorable experience!