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About this guide
Set along the sparkling shores of Oʻahu, the capital city of Honolulu, Hawaii, blends tropical beauty, deeply rooted moʻolelo traditions, and unforgettable island culture. From the golden sands of Waikiki Beach to the powerful legacy of Pearl Harbor, the city offers experiences for all kinds of travelers. The iconic Diamond Head rises above the skyline with sweeping ocean views as the city below celebrates Hawaiʻi’s rich heritage. With warm weather year-round, flavorful island cuisine, and a balance of outdoor adventure and urban energy, Honolulu is as captivating as it is relaxing.
- Best time to travel: December to March and June to August (peak season), September to November (shoulder season), April to May (off season)
- Time zone: Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time (HAST)
- Currency: US Dollar ($)
- Language(s): English, Hawaiian, Japanese
- Noteworthy: Honolulu Festival (March), King Kamehameha DayCelebration (June), Aloha Festivals (September)
- Best for: Pacific Island History, Island Getaway, Outdoor Adventures, Hawaiian Cuisine
Parlé: Key Phrases
- Aloha — Hello, goodbye, and love; the signature Hawaiian greeting
- Mahalo — Thank you
- Howzit? — Local way to say “How are you?”
- Da kine — A local slang phrase used to describe almost anything depending on context
- ʻOhana — Family, including close friends and community
- Pau hana — Finished with work / time to relax after work
Get Away: Getting To And Around Honolulu, Hawaii
By Air
Daniel K. Inouye International Airport serves as Hawaii’s primary international gateway with direct domestic and international flights from major cities worldwide. Upon arrival, travelers can easily access Waikīkī and surrounding neighborhoods through shuttles, taxis, public transit, and rental cars.
By Car
Renting a car offers more flexibility for exploring more of Oʻahu beyond Honolulu, including scenic coastal drives and beach towns. Traffic and parking can be limited in busy areas like Waikīkī, so most visitors choose to combine driving with public transit or walking.
By Public Transit
Honolulu’s public transit system, TheBus, is one of the most affordable and convenient ways to navigate around the city. Its extensive routes connect major attractions, shopping centers, beaches, and residential neighborhoods across the island.
Explore Honolulu, Hawaii, On Foot
Walkable areas like Waikīkī make it easy to explore Honolulu’s beaches, cafés, boutiques, and cultural landmarks at a more relaxed pace. Strolling along the waterfront, through tropical parks, or past open-air markets offers a scenic way to experience Honolulu’s laid-back island atmosphere.
Quick facts
Good For
Pacific Island History
Island Getaway
Outdoor Adventures
Hawaiian Cuisine
Keep in mind
- Honolulu Festival (March)
- King Kamehameha Day Celebration (June)
- Aloha Festivals (September)
Gourmet
Gourmet: Places To Eat In Honolulu, Hawaii
A local favorite since 1947, Highway Inn offers traditional Hawaiian cuisine with dishes like kalua pork, laulau, and poi. The restaurant's warm atmosphere and authentic flavors make it a must-visit for a true taste of Hawaii.
This Vietnamese-Hawaiian fusion restaurant in Chinatown features innovative dishes like pho French dip and Laotian fried chicken. The Pig And The Lady is celebrated for its creative menu and vibrant dining experience.
For the best poke bowls in Honolulu, head to Ono Seafood for fresh, flavorful Hawaiian cuisine. A popular choice for locals and visitors, his unassuming spot serves high-quality fish with a variety of toppings.
Heaven's Soul Food Cuisine brings a taste of Southern comfort to Honolulu with dishes like fried chicken, mac and cheese, and collard greens. The hearty, home-cooked meals offer a delicious change of pace from typical island fare.
Located on the waterfront, Nico's Pier 38 offers fresh seafood dishes focusing on local catches. Enjoy poke, grilled fish, and seafood platters while enjoying the harbor views.
Enjoy this mom-and-pop shop’s delicious offerings near the Ward Centre. Best known for its mouth-watering lobster roll, Fat Cheeks also serves various soups, salads, sides, and desserts.
Play
Play: Things To Do In Honolulu, Hawaii
Hike The Diamond Head, an extinct volcanic crater, for breathtaking views of Honolulu and the Pacific Ocean. The trail to the summit has well-maintained paths and suitable for most fitness levels.
Explore the historic site of Pearl Harbor, including the USS Arizona Memorial and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum. The tours provide a poignant insight into the events of World War II and its impact on Hawaii and the world.
Relax on the famous Waikiki Beach, known for its golden sands and clear waters. Whether swimming, surfing, or simply sunbathing, Waikiki offers a quintessential Hawaiian beach experience.
Visit Iolani Palace, the only royal palace in the United States, to learn about Hawaii’s monarchy and history. The beautifully restored palace offers guided tours that delve into the lives of Hawaii’s last reigning monarch.
Discover an impressive art collection from Asia, the Pacific, and the Americas at the Honolulu Museum of Art. The museum’s diverse exhibitions and beautiful courtyards make it a cultural gem in the heart of the city.
Experience the diverse marine life of Hanauma Bay, a protected nature reserve ideal for snorkeling. The clear, shallow waters are home to colorful coral reefs and a variety of fish species.
Take a scenic hike through the lush rainforest to Manoa Falls, a stunning 150-foot waterfall. Known as the filming location for Jurassic Park, the area is easy to navigate and offers an escape into nature.
Explore Honolulu’s Chinatown O'ahu Market, known for its busy markets, eclectic shops, and diverse dining options. The neighborhood’s vibrant atmosphere and cultural heritage make it a fascinating area to explore.
