Top 10 Things to Do in Honolulu
As someone who has been to Honolulu multiple times, I can confidently say that there is no shortage of things to do in this beautiful city. From the stunning beaches to the delicious food, there is something for everyone. In this article, I will be sharing my top 10 things to do in Honolulu.
1. Visit Waikiki Beach
No trip to Honolulu would be complete without a visit to Waikiki Beach. This iconic beach is known for its soft sand, crystal clear water, and stunning views of Diamond Head. I personally love to grab a shaved ice from one of the vendors and relax on the beach for hours.
2. Hike Diamond Head
If you’re looking for a bit of adventure, I highly recommend hiking Diamond Head. The hike is relatively easy and the views from the top are absolutely breathtaking. Plus, you’ll get a great workout in!
3. Explore Pearl Harbor
Pearl Harbor is a must-visit for any history buff. Take a tour of the USS Arizona Memorial and learn about the events that led up to the attack on Pearl Harbor. It’s a sobering experience, but one that is incredibly important.
4. Eat Malasadas from Leonard’s Bakery
If you have a sweet tooth, you absolutely cannot miss out on the malasadas from Leonard’s Bakery. These Portuguese donuts are fried to perfection and filled with delicious custard or other sweet fillings. Trust me, they are worth the calories.
5. Snorkel at Hanauma Bay
Hanauma Bay is hands down one of the best places to snorkel in Honolulu. The water is crystal clear and there are tons of colorful fish and other sea creatures to see. Just make sure to arrive early, as it can get crowded.
6. Visit the Honolulu Museum of Art
The Honolulu Museum of Art is a great place to spend a few hours on a rainy day. The museum has an impressive collection of Asian art, as well as works by local Hawaiian artists. Plus, they often have interesting temporary exhibits.
7. Take a Surf Lesson
Surfing is a big part of Hawaiian culture, so why not try it out for yourself? There are plenty of surf schools in Honolulu that offer lessons for all skill levels. It’s a great way to get out of your comfort zone and have some fun.
8. Take a Sunset Cruise
Watching the sunset over the ocean is a must-do in Honolulu. There are plenty of sunset cruises available that will take you out on the water and provide you with stunning views of the sunset. Some even come with dinner and drinks!
9. Visit the North Shore
The North Shore of Oahu is known for its world-class surf breaks and laid-back vibe. It’s a bit of a drive from Honolulu, but it’s worth it to see the stunning beaches and watch the surfers catch some waves.
10. Try Shave Ice from Matsumoto’s
Last but not least, you have to try the shave ice from Matsumoto’s in Haleiwa. This small town on the North Shore is known for its delicious shave ice, and Matsumoto’s is the best of the best. Trust me, it’s the perfect way to cool off on a hot day.
Curiosities, Top Statistics, and Facts about Top 10 Things to Do in Honolulu:
- Waikiki Beach is one of the most famous beaches in the world.
- Diamond Head is a volcanic crater that is over 300,000 years old.
- The USS Arizona Memorial was built over the remains of the sunken battleship.
- Leonard’s Bakery has been around since 1952 and is a Honolulu institution.
- Hanauma Bay is a popular spot for snorkeling, but it is also a protected marine life conservation area.
- The Honolulu Museum of Art has over 50,000 works of art in its collection.
- The North Shore of Oahu is home to some of the biggest surf competitions in the world.
- Shave ice is a popular Hawaiian treat that dates back to the 19th century.
FAQs
What is the best time of year to visit Honolulu?
The best time to visit Honolulu is from mid-April to early June or from September to mid-December. These are the shoulder seasons, which means there are fewer crowds and lower prices.
Do I need a rental car in Honolulu?
It depends on what you want to do. If you plan on staying in Waikiki and doing mostly touristy things, you can get by without a car. However, if you want to explore the rest of the island, a rental car is highly recommended.
What is the dress code in Honolulu?
Honolulu is a pretty casual place, so you can get away with wearing shorts and a t-shirt in most places. However, if you plan on going to a nice restaurant or attending a luau, you may want to dress up a bit.
Is Honolulu expensive?
Compared to other cities in the United States, Honolulu can be quite expensive. However, there are ways to save money, such as staying in a budget hotel or eating at local food trucks.
What should I pack for a trip to Honolulu?
You’ll want to pack plenty of sunscreen, a swimsuit, comfortable walking shoes, and lightweight clothing. It’s also a good idea to bring a reusable water bottle, as it can get hot and humid.