Honolulu Hawaii – A Tourist Guide for First-Time Visitors

Honolulu, Hawaii is a paradise of beauty, culture, and adventure that draws millions of tourists each year. Located on the southeastern coast of the state of Hawaii, Honolulu is the capital city and cultural center of the island nation. With its lush landscape, warm beaches, and world-class attractions, Honolulu is the ideal destination for a first-time visitor in search of a true tropical paradise.

History and General Facts

Honolulu was first settled by the Polynesian voyagers of the ancient Hawaiian kingdom in the 13th century. The city quickly became a major trading hub for goods from all of the Hawaiian islands, and in 1845, King Kamehameha III declared it the capital of his kingdom.

Today, Honolulu is a bustling city with a population of over 350,000 people. It is the main port of entry for visitors to Hawaii, and is home to many of the state’s top attractions, including its famous Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head. The city also boasts some of the best restaurants, shopping, and nightlife in the entire country.

What to See in Honolulu

Honolulu has something for everyone to enjoy. From its historical sites to its natural wonders, there are plenty of activities to fill your days. Here are some of the top attractions that should not be missed.

Waikiki Beach

Waikiki Beach is one of the most iconic spots in Honolulu. This two-mile long stretch of white sand beach is located on the south shore of Oahu and is a popular spot for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. It is also home to a variety of restaurants, shops, and hotels that make it a great place to spend an afternoon exploring.

Diamond Head

The Diamond Head volcanic crater is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Honolulu. The crater was created over 300,000 years ago, and visitors can explore its trails and admire its stunning views of Waikiki Beach and the city skyline. A hike up to the summit is an adventure not to be missed.

Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve

The Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is one of the most beautiful spots on Oahu. This protected bay is home to a wide variety of marine life and offers visitors the chance to snorkel and explore its coral reefs up close. It is also ideal for swimming and relaxing on its white sand beaches.

Iolani Palace

Iolani Palace is the former home of Hawaii’s monarchy and is now a museum dedicated to preserving its history. Visitors can tour the palace’s grounds and explore its many grand rooms and artifacts that tell the story of Hawaii’s past rulers.

Bishop Museum

The Bishop Museum is one of Honolulu’s top cultural attractions. The museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts from Hawaiian history and culture, as well as interactive exhibits that bring its stories to life.

Honolulu Zoo

The Honolulu Zoo is one of the most popular destinations in the city. With more than 1,200 animals from around the world, it’s a great place to explore and learn about animal conservation and ecology.

Popular Tours in Honolulu

Honolulu offers many amazing tours for visitors to explore its unique attractions. Here are two popular tours that should not be missed:

Pearl Harbor & Arizona Memorial Tour

This tour takes visitors on a journey back in time to explore one of the most significant moments in American history – the attack on Pearl Harbor during World War II. Visitors will get to explore the USS Arizona Memorial, which honors those who died during the attack. They will also get to tour the Battleship Missouri Memorial, which was where Japan surrendered at the end of World War II, as well as visit other historical sites in Pearl Harbor before returning to Honolulu. Book a Pearl Harbor & Arizona Memorial Tour here.

Oahu Circle Island Tour

This tour takes visitors on a journey around Oahu to explore its many natural wonders. Stops include beautiful beaches such as Waimanalo Beach Park, Haleiwa Beach Park, and Lanikai Beach; historic sites such as Nuuanu Pali Lookout; and iconic attractions like Diamond Head and Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve. Book an Oahu Circle Island Tour here.

Conclusion

Honolulu, Hawaii is a paradise like no other with its lush landscape, warm beaches, and world-class attractions. From exploring Waikiki Beach to hiking Diamond Head or snorkeling Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, there are endless possibilities for how to spend your time in this vibrant city. Those looking to explore deeper can take a guided tour to discover even more hidden gems around Oahu that they may not have been able to find on their own. No matter how you choose to spend your time in Honolulu, there’s no doubt you’ll be sure to have an unforgettable experience!