Honolulu Travel Guide

Part of our Hawaii guide.

Honolulu is a city on the island of Oʻahu — one of Hawaii’s four main islands, along with Maui, Kauaʻi, and the Big Island (Hawaiʻi). It is the state’s capital and largest city, and its name means “sheltered bay.”

Top Things to Do in Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii, USA

Honolulu mixes nature, culture, sports, and shopping. Its beaches are among the most visited in the state, and the city also holds museums and historical monuments. Hawaii is made up of around 137 islands in the Pacific Ocean, with four main islands — Maui, the Big Island, Kauaʻi, and Oʻahu.

What Flights Have A Stopover In Honolulu

A stopover is a deliberate break in a long-haul flight where you spend a few days in a city before continuing to your final destination. Many airlines allow stopovers in Honolulu at no extra airfare. Check with your carrier for current stopover policies and eligible routes.

10 Best Local Eateries In Honolulu, Hawaii

Honolulu’s culinary scene reflects its mix of cultures — from traditional Hawaiian dishes to international flavors. The city’s local eateries range from plate-lunch counters to family-run bakeries. For a deeper look at what locals recommend, see our travel tips and local favorites in Hawaii guide.

Helena’s Hawaiian Food — known for kalua pig and pipikaula short ribs.
Ono Seafood — fresh poke bowls, often with ahi and limu.
Rainbow Drive-In — a classic for loco moco and plate lunches.
Sidestreet Inn — Korean-style fried chicken and soju.
Marukame Udon — hand-pulled udon noodles served in broth.
Fumi’s Kahuku Shrimp — garlic shrimp from a North Shore food truck.
Koko Head Café — brunch dishes with local ingredients.
Poke Bar — build-your-own poke bowls.
Mitsuwa Marketplace — Japanese grocery with a hot-food counter.
Leonard’s Bakery — malasadas (Portuguese doughnuts) filled with custard.

11 Relaxing Retreats To Enjoy In Honolulu, Hawaii

Honolulu offers urban amenities alongside beaches and tropical landscapes. These retreats focus on quiet and rejuvenation:

Kahala Hotel & Resort — a beachfront property with a dolphin lagoon.
Halekulani — a Waikiki hotel known for its orchid pool.
Lotus Honolulu at Diamond Head — smaller hotel near Kapiolani Park.
The Royal Hawaiian — a historic pink hotel on Waikiki Beach.
Moana Surfrider — a Westin property dating to 1901.
‘Alohilani Resort — features a two-story aquarium in the lobby.
Prince Waikiki — overlooks the Ala Wai Yacht Harbor.
Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa — near Diamond Head.
Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort — oceanfront with cultural programs.
Sheraton Waikiki — large resort with multiple pools.
Trump International Hotel Waikiki — all-suite hotel with a spa.

9 Family-Friendly Activities In Honolulu, Hawaii

Honolulu’s beaches, parks, and cultural sites suit families with children of all ages. Options include the Waikiki Aquarium, the Honolulu Zoo, and the Bishop Museum, which covers Hawaiian history and natural science. For more ideas, check our guide to beaches in Hawaii and hiking and the outdoors in Hawaii.

Waikiki Beach — calm waters for beginner snorkeling and paddleboarding.
Diamond Head State Monument — a short hike with views of the city.
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve — a marine sanctuary for snorkeling (reservations required).
Polynesian Cultural Center — interactive villages and evening show.
Iolani Palace — the only royal palace in the United States.
Kualoa Ranch — ATV tours, horseback riding, and movie-set tours.
Sea Life Park — dolphin encounters and bird shows.
Magic Island — a lagoon with a playground and picnic areas.
Byodo-In Temple — a replica of a Japanese temple set against the Ko‘olau Mountains.

12 Vibrant Festivals/Events To Attend In Honolulu, Hawaii

Honolulu hosts festivals throughout the year that celebrate its cultural traditions, arts, and food. The city’s event calendar includes the Honolulu Festival (March), the King Kamehameha Day Parade (June), and the Hawaii Food & Wine Festival (fall). For timing, note that is peak tourist season in Hawaii runs from mid-December through March and again in June–August, so book early for events during those months.

Honolulu Festival — cultural performances and a parade.
Prince Lot Hula Festival — hula performances at Moanalua Gardens.
King Kamehameha Day Parade — floral floats and pa‘u riders.
Pan-Pacific Festival — Japanese taiko drumming and dance.
Hawaii Food & Wine Festival — chef tastings and farm tours.
Aloha Festivals — month-long series of concerts and block parties.
Honolulu Marathon — held in December, draws runners from around the world.
Vans Triple Crown of Surfing — professional surf competition on the North Shore.
Honolulu Pride Parade — LGBTQ+ celebration in October.
New Year’s Eve Fireworks — shows at Waikiki Beach and Aloha Tower.
Spam Jam — a street festival in Waikiki celebrating Spam-based dishes.
Honolulu City Lights — holiday decorations at Honolulu Hale.