The Best of Honolulu: Your Ultimate Hawaiian Travel Guide
What if I said there was a Hawaiian paradise with everything you could want – brilliant blue waters, lush rainforests, towering waterfalls – and it was all just steps from a cosmopolitan city center pulsing with unbeatable food, shopping, and nightlife? You’d want to know more, right?
So, Honolulu is one of those rare destinations that truly has its all-natural beauty, rich cultural traditions, endless outdoor adventures, and a world-class culinary and arts scene that will leave you amazed.
And this article would be your handy guide to exploring the real, authentic Honolulu – stuff you won’t find in any book. Trust me, by the end you’ll be ready to pack your bags and experience it all for yourself!
So why wait? Let’s get started.
How to Get To Honolulu?
There are two main ways to get to Honolulu: by air and by sea.
By Air
The vast majority of visitors arrive in Honolulu by airplane. Honolulu International Airport (HNL) is the main gateway to Oahu and the entire Hawaiian island chain.
Several airlines offer nonstop flights to Honolulu from major cities across the United States, Canada, and Asia. Flight time from Los Angeles is around 6 hours, while a flight from New York City can take up to 11 hours.
Sea Travel
Cruising in Honolulu is a less common but equally rewarding way to experience the beauty of Hawaii. Cruise ships typically depart from the mainland United States, such as California or Washington, and make stops at several Hawaiian islands, including Oahu.
Cruises to Honolulu can last from a few days to a week or more. They offer a variety of activities and amenities, such as swimming pools, restaurants, entertainment venues, and shore excursions.
Top Things to Do and Places to Visit in Honolulu
Hike the Diamond Head Crater
Kick off your trip with a thrilling hike up Diamond Head Crater, a dormant volcano overlooking Waikiki. The 1.5-mile roundtrip trek takes you through a historic military lookout and rewards you with panoramic views of the city and coastline.
Pro tip: Aim for an early morning hike to avoid crowds and soak up the breathtaking sunrise over the Pacific Ocean.
Explore the USS Arizona Memorial
Pearl Harbor National Memorial Park is a poignant reminder of World War II history. Here, you can pay your respects at the USS Arizona Memorial, a floating structure built directly above the sunken battleship where many American sailors lost their lives.
This free experience includes a short ferry ride to the memorial and a narrated tour about the events of December 7th, 1941.
Visit Waikiki Beach
Waikiki Beach is a must-visit in Honolulu, famous for its golden sands and crystal-clear waters. This iconic stretch of coastline offers perfect conditions for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing.
Rent a surfboard or take a lesson to ride the gentle waves. After a day in the sun, explore the numerous beachside restaurants and shops along Kalakaua Avenue. Don’t forget to catch a stunning sunset over the Pacific Ocean, which is a daily spectacle that never disappoints.
Iolani Palace
Step back into the era of Hawaiian royalty at Iolani Palace, the former royal residence of Hawaii’s last reigning monarchs. This National Historic Landmark in downtown Honolulu is an impressive sight, with its ornate blend of Hawaiian and European architectural styles.
Highlights of the guided tour include the lavishly decorated throne room, the iconic blue room, and the beautiful gardens once strolled by royals like King Kalakaua and Queen Liliuokalani. It’s a must-see piece of living history that provides fascinating insight into Hawaii’s proud heritage and cultural traditions.
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
For an unforgettable snorkeling experience, head to Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve. This protected marine life conservation area is home to vibrant coral reefs and many tropical fish.
Before snorkeling, visitors must watch an educational video about preserving the bay’s ecosystem. The calm, clear waters make it an excellent spot for beginners and families. Arrive early to secure parking and enjoy the bay before it gets crowded.
Manoa Falls
A hike to Manoa Falls is perfect for nature enthusiasts looking to explore Honolulu’s lush rainforest. The trail is relatively easy, winding through a tropical forest filled with bamboo, wild ginger, and lush greenery.
The reward at the end is a stunning 150-foot waterfall that cascades into a tranquil pool. Wear sturdy shoes, as the trail can be muddy, and bring insect repellent to ward off mosquitoes. Early morning hikes are ideal for enjoying the serenity and avoiding midday heat.
Bishop Museum
The Bishop Museum offers a deep dive into Hawaii’s rich cultural and natural history. With extensive exhibits on Hawaiian artifacts, Polynesian navigation, and the islands’ unique ecosystems, it’s a fascinating stop for all ages.
The museum’s planetarium showcases Hawaiian astronomy and offers a variety of shows about the night sky. Special exhibits and interactive displays keep things engaging, making it a great educational outing for families and history buffs alike.
Honolulu’s Food Scene
Honolulu’s food scene is a melting pot, blending diverse influences from Hawaii’s unique multi-ethnic culture. Here are some of the must-try culinary highlights
HawaiianPlate Lunch
No visit to Honolulu is complete without sampling a classic Hawaiian plate lunch. These generous portions of protein, rice, and macaroni salad provide a tasty snapshot of the island’s local comfort foods.
Malasadas
These Portuguese doughnuts brought by early immigrants have become a beloved Hawaiian treat. Picture pillowy balls of dough tossed in sugar and filled with delectable fruit or chocolate flavors. The best malasadas are hot and crispy on the outside yet light and airy inside.
Shrimp Trucks
You haven’t experienced true Hawaiian shrimp until you’ve visited one of the iconic North Shore shrimp trucks. These unassuming food trucks parked along Kamehameha Highway serve fresh-off-the-boat seafood in addictively delicious garlic shrimp plates and scampi.
Best Hotels To Stay in
Honolulu offers a stunning selection of high-end hotels boasting luxurious amenities, impeccable service, and prime locations. Here are some of the top picks.
This iconic beachfront property is renowned for its unparalleled service, luxurious accommodations, and breathtaking ocean views. You can indulge in pampering spa treatments, savor exquisite cuisine at award-winning restaurants, or simply relax by the infinity pool overlooking Waikiki Beach.
Nestled on a secluded beachfront estate, this luxurious property offers a serene atmosphere, exceptional service, and stunning ocean views. You can enjoy world-class dining, various water activities, and a relaxing spa experience.
Experience true luxury at the Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina. This sprawling beachfront resort has multiple pools, a lazy river, a luxurious spa, and exceptional dining options. Spacious guest rooms and private lanais are a plus.
How to Get Around?
Honolulu offers a variety of transportation options to suit every budget and style. The reliable and affordable The Bus service covers most of the island, although journeys might take a bit longer. For more convenience, ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft provide door-to-door service, while taxis offer a familiar and comfortable, if pricier, alternative.
Renting a car allows you to explore Oahu at your own pace, but remember to factor in parking costs and traffic. Biking around Waikiki is a fun and eco-friendly option, ideal for navigating the flat, compact area. Alternatively, the hop-on, hop-off Waikiki Trolley allows you to explore key attractions effortlessly.
Best time to Visit Honolulu
The best time to visit Honolulu is during the spring months of April and May. This sweet spot offers ideal weather conditions with daily highs around 80°F and lower humidity levels before summer’s peak heat and rainfall.
Hotel rates are also lower compared to the winter holidays and summer peak. Crowds are manageable, the ocean waters are sublime for swimming and beach time, and you can catch the tail end of whale watching season.
Long Story Short
At the end of the day, Honolulu packs a serious punch. This vibrant city has everything you need to go full-on vacation mode.
From hanging ten to chilling with a beachside, Honolulu lets you embrace the island spirit. Once you experience that aloha vibe for yourself, you’ll be hooked. So what are you waiting for? Get a taste of paradise already – Honolulu’s magical memories are calling your name!
