The 10 things to do in Honolulu

Visit Honolulu: What are the best things to do and see in the Hawaiian capital?

Welcome to Hawaii! This State of the United States has become synonymous with paradise and is part of these destinations that make travellers dream of all horizons only when evoking their name. Discovery by James Cook In 1778, the Hawaii archipelago was blotti in the heart of the Pacific Ocean, between the United States and the Japan . It is composed of 137 islands, but only five of them are most commonly visited, including the main, Oahu, which houses the capital, Honolulu .

This fascinating city, the birthplace of Barrack Obama, is renowned for its warm and sparkling waters, its vast golden sand beaches and its historic and picturesque cultural sites. The capital concentrates 75% of Hawaii’s population. So she's very urbanized! But just a few kilometers away to find the idyllic landscapes of the archipelago.

Are you wondering what to do in Honolulu? This is it!

1. Pearl Harbor

What to do in Honolulu first? Unquestionably, Pearl Harbor , site of the terrible Japanese air attack of 1941 that led the United States in the Second World War. Direction Oahu, just 20 minutes from Honolulu: on site relive a key moment of American history in the time of a cultural visit on this ancient military base, today a place of recollection and history.

Also discover the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum and the USS Arizona Memorial, an immersive dive in the skin of the young American soldiers, attacked by surprise by the Japanese in the morning of December 7.

2. Waikiki Beach

Because of its unparalleled beauty, the beach Waikiki is one of the most famous in the world. Nestled in the middle of impressive skyscrapers, surrounded by white sand banks that stretch over three kilometers, it is renowned for being the rendezvous of surfers.

During the day, you will be able to explore luxury shopping malls, take one surf lessons , opt for one cocktail cruise or go observe turtles and whales .

The area is also animated at night, with its cocktail bars on the waterfront, its gastronomic restaurants and the Hula dance shows organized in Kuhio Beach .

3. Diamond Head

Known of the inhabitants under the name “Le’ahi” (the tuna dorsal) the Diamond Head is an extinct volcanic crater. A true emblem of Hawaii, one recognizes his silhouette on the photos, one sees it from several shores and one can climb to admire Honolulu from high (count 3h walk).

The best is to opt for one Morning hiking and admire the sunrise. You won't regret it!

4. Hanauma Bay

Are you wondering what to do in Honolulu? Don't miss the visit Hanauma Bay ! Located less than 30 minutes from downtown Honolulu, it is one of the most beautiful beaches in Hawaii.

Famous for its rich and abundant marine life, give yourself without hesitation practice of snorkeling and swim with fish, turtles or octopuses while enjoying all the riches of the Hawaiian coasts.

5. The Palace ‘Iolani

Only and unique royal palace of Hawaii and all the United States, the palace ‘Iolani is a public monument and the old residence of the last Hawaiian sovereigns.

You will discover the time of a guided tour , the history of the Hawaiian kingdom through the years in this museum registered in the national register of historic sites of the United States. A real historical and cultural discovery not to be missed.

6. The Polynesian Cultural Centre

This lively and interactive museum, which occupies a space of 16 hectares, is one of the privileged places of Hawaii to discover the islands of Polynesia and their influence on the “Aloha State”.

Many activities, presentations and shows are proposed by the Polynesian cultural centre .

7. Manoa Falls

If you are told that the path that leads to Manoa Falls was the location of some scenes from Jurassic Park or the Lost series, and you're already wearing the picture, right?

Unbelievable tropical Jungle, 45m high waterfall (Baignade not recommended because of a very harmful bacteria): it’s an absolutely amazing scenery that offers you during this hiking to the Manoa Falls , in the heart of lush vegetation.

8. Kalakaua Avenue and the Ala Moana Center

Shopping fans won't be left in Honolulu! Kalakaua Avenue along the beach of Waikiki and has countless shops and restaurants for all tastes.

It is also in Honolulu that you will find the largest "open" shopping centre in the world: the Ala Moana Center . Whether in good weather or rainy weather, the Ala Moana Center is very popular for its hundreds of shops in an open sky centre, but which protects you in case of rain. You will also find a great "food court".

9. Bishop Museum

If there is a museum that you have to do in Honolulu, it is the Natural and Cultural History Museum of the State of Hawaii, otherwise called the Bishop Museum . He was founded in 1889 by Charles Reed Bishop for his late wife, the Princess Bernice Pauahi Paki , which was none other than the last descendant of the royal family Kamehameha.

You can admire a sumptuous collection of Hawaiian objects, but also a large collection of American insects: 13.5 million specimens, nothing but that!

10. See also in Honolulu

• If you come with children, why don't you go for a walk? Zoo d’Honolulu or to theWaikiki aquarium ?
• Queen Kapientreolani Regional Park. Located at the east end of Waikīkī, it is the largest and second oldest public park in Hawaii!
• Other beautiful hiking tours: Koko Trail, Makapu’u Point and Kalauao
• The Foster Botanical Garden for a peaceful ride
• The Punchbowl National Cemetery where the deaths of the Pacific War and Korea are buried
• The Botanical Garden Ho
• plantation Dole, the largest pineapple plantation in the world, 30 minutes from Honolulu

How to go to Honolulu?

Honolulu International Airport (HNL) is Hawaii’s largest airport and serves as an entry point for most tourists who travel to Hawaii. There is no direct flight from Paris to Honolulu. No matter which airline you choose, your flight from Paris to Honolulu will be 1 or 2 stops. You can count about 7:00. Visit our partner's website Ulysses to find a flight at the best price.

Once on site, you should know that Honolulu Airport is only 8 kilometres northwest of the city. To get to the city centre, you can opt for the bus service that provides the connection throughout the day (one shuttle every 30 minutes – $9 the ticket). You will also find taxis or can rent a car at the airport for greater freedom of movement throughout your stay.

Where to stay in Honolulu?

If you choose to visit Honolulu, it is essential to choose where to stay. You can read our article about neighbourhoods where to stay in Honolulu . You will find the best tips to find out where to stay and choose your accommodation. You can also find a cheap hotel in Honolulu by looking for this Compare hotels .

Don't delay and go to this dream destination in the heart of the Pacific! Are you still wondering what to do in Honolulu? Aloha!