Honolulu
· US

Honolulu

Honolulu, Hawaii, United States

Aloha and Welcome to Honolulu: Where City Life Meets Island Paradise Honolulu, the vibrant capital of Hawaii on the island of Oahu, is a melting pot of cultures and experiences. More than just a tropical getaway, Honolul…

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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Honolulu.

Top Hotels in Honolulu

Top Flights to Honolulu

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Honolulu.

Tours

Pearl Harbor National Memorial

Visit the historical site of Pearl Harbor to learn about the events of World War II and pay respect to those who lost their lives.

Honolulu Museum of Art

Explore a vast collection of art spanning 5,000 years, from ancient times to modern pieces.

Iolani Palace Tour

Visit Iolani Palace, the official residence of Hawaii's monarchy, and learn about the rich history of the Hawaiian Kingdom.

Shopping

Ala Moana Center Shopping

Visit the world’s largest open-air shopping center, offering a variety of stores from luxury brands to local boutiques.

Kakaako Farmers Market

Experience the local flavors and produce at the Kakaako Farmers Market, featuring a variety of local vendors.

Outdoor

Diamond Head State Monument Hike

Experience panoramic views of Hawaii on a hike up Diamond Head, a volcanic tuff cone and a United States National Natural Monument.

Waikiki Beach Day

Relax on the famous Waikiki Beach, perfect for both sunbathing and water sports such as surfing and snorkeling.

Hanauma Bay Snorkeling

Enjoy snorkeling at Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, home to a diverse array of marine life.

Explore North Shore

Visit the North Shore of Oahu for a day of world-renowned surfing, local food trucks, and stunning beaches.

Manoa Falls Trail

Hike through a tropical rainforest to Manoa Falls, a stunning waterfall nestled in lush greenery.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers
Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Honolulu.

Currency
$ | USD | US Dollar
Population
Information not available.
Languages
English, Hawaiian
Average weather
Honolulu
Jan
sun
26°19°
Feb
sun
26°19°
Mar
sun
27°20°
Apr
sun
28°21°
May
sun
29°22°
Jun
sun
30°23°
Jul
sun
31°24°
Aug
sun
31°24°
Sep
sun
31°24°
Oct
sun
30°23°
Nov
sun
28°22°
Dec
sun
27°20°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Honolulu.

What people love

There are several pros to traveling to Honolulu, Hawaii. Here are some detailed points:

  1. Beautiful Beaches: Honolulu is home to some of the most stunning beaches in the world, including Waikiki Beach, Lanikai Beach, and Hanauma Bay. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling, surfing, and other water activities in the crystal-clear waters of the Pacific Ocean.

  2. Rich Culture: Honolulu has a rich cultural heritage influenced by Polynesian, Asian, and Western traditions. Visitors can explore historic sites such as Iolani Palace, Bishop Museum, and Pearl Harbor, providing insights into Hawaii's history and culture.

  3. Natural Beauty: Beyond its beaches, Honolulu boasts breathtaking natural beauty, including lush rainforests, volcanic craters, and scenic waterfalls. Popular attractions like Diamond Head Crater and Manoa Falls offer opportunities for hiking and exploring the island's diverse landscapes.

  4. Delicious Cuisine: Honolulu is a paradise for food lovers, offering a wide range of culinary delights influenced by diverse ethnic backgrounds. Visitors can savor fresh seafood, tropical fruits, traditional Hawaiian dishes, and fusion cuisine at local restaurants, food trucks, and markets.

  5. Outdoor Activities: Honolulu provides numerous outdoor activities for adventure seekers, such as snorkeling, scuba diving, hiking, surfing, and zip-lining. The warm climate and natural landscapes make it an ideal destination for those looking to experience the great outdoors.

  6. Warm Weather: Honolulu enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, making it an excellent destination for sun-seekers and beach enthusiasts. The pleasant weather allows visitors to enjoy outdoor activities and relax on the beaches at any time of the year.

Overall, traveling to Honolulu offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, and delicious cuisine, making it a popular destination for tourists from around the world.

What to know

Traveling to Honolulu, Hawaii, like any destination, may have some drawbacks. Here are some potential cons of traveling to Honolulu:

  1. Expensive: Honolulu is known to be an expensive destination, with high costs for accommodation, dining, and activities. Tourists may find that their budget does not stretch as far as in other locations.

  2. Crowds: Honolulu is a popular tourist destination, especially Waikiki Beach, so it can get crowded, particularly during peak tourist seasons. This may result in long lines at attractions and difficulty finding a quiet spot on the beach.

  3. Traffic: Honolulu has some of the worst traffic congestion in the United States. Getting around the city by car can be challenging, especially during rush hours. This may impact your ability to explore the city efficiently.

  4. Weather: While Honolulu is known for its beautiful weather, it also experiences occasional rain showers, especially during the winter months. Tropical storms and hurricanes can also be a concern, particularly during the hurricane season from June to November.

  5. Environmental Impact: The high number of tourists visiting Honolulu can have a negative impact on the environment, particularly on fragile ecosystems such as coral reefs and hiking trails. Responsible tourism practices are essential to help minimize this impact.

  6. Cultural Sensitivity: Honolulu is home to a rich Hawaiian culture that should be respected by visitors. It's essential to be aware of local customs and traditions to ensure a positive and respectful travel experience.

Remember that these cons should be considered alongside the numerous benefits and attractions that Honolulu has to offer. It's always a good idea to research and plan ahead to mitigate any potential drawbacks of your trip.

Honolulu, located on the island of Oahu in the state of Hawaii, has a rich history that dates back to ancient Polynesian settlers. The area was first settled by Polynesians between the 9th and 11th centuries, and evidence of their presence can still be seen in the form of ancient fishponds and heiaus (temples) scattered throughout the region.

In the late 18th century, Honolulu began to grow as a port town and trading center due to its strategic location in the central Pacific Ocean. The arrival of European explorers and traders further influenced the development of the city. In 1845, King Kamehameha III moved the capital of the Kingdom of Hawaii from Lahaina on Maui to Honolulu, solidifying its status as the political and economic center of the islands.

One of the most significant events in Honolulu's history was the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy in 1893, orchestrated by a group of American businessmen and supported by the United States government. This led to the annexation of Hawaii by the United States in 1898 and the eventual establishment of the Territory of Hawaii.

During World War II, Honolulu played a crucial role as a military hub for the United States in the Pacific theater. The bombing of Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, by the Japanese Imperial Navy had a profound impact on the city and marked the entry of the United States into World War II.

Today, Honolulu is a vibrant and diverse city known for its beautiful beaches, cultural attractions, and bustling downtown area. Some of the most iconic landmarks in Honolulu include:

  • Diamond Head: A volcanic tuff cone located near Waikiki Beach, offering panoramic views of the city and coastline.
  • Pearl Harbor: A historic site commemorating the attack on Pearl Harbor, including the USS Arizona Memorial and the Battleship Missouri.
  • Iolani Palace: The former royal residence of the Hawaiian monarchs, now a museum showcasing the history of the Hawaiian Kingdom.
  • Waikiki Beach: One of the most famous beaches in the world, known for its white sand, clear waters, and iconic Diamond Head backdrop.
  • Bishop Museum: A cultural institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history and heritage of Hawaii and the Pacific Islands.

Honolulu continues to be a popular tourist destination and a hub of cultural exchange in the Pacific region, with a diverse population that reflects its unique history and heritage.