At least once in your life, you should go to Honolulu, Hawaii. For the best travel experience in Honolulu, Hawaii, check out our curated list of things to do in Honolulu, Hawaii, and the best places to visit in Honolulu, Hawaii, below. We at Wondrous Drifter, a Web 3.0 travel startup, have big plans to shake things up in the travel business.
Table Of Content
- Aloha Tower
- Chinatown
- Corsair Wreck Dive Site
- Diamond Head
- Halona Blowhole
- Hanauma Bay
- Honolulu Museum of Art
- Honolulu Zoo
- Kaka’ako
- Kuhio Beach Park
- Kualoa Ranch
- Leonard’s Bakery
- Magic Island
- Manoa Falls
- Pearl Harbor
- Polynesian Cultural Center
- Royal Hawaiian Center
- Sans Souci Beach Park
- Shark’s Cove
- Waikiki
- Volunteer At Animal Shelters
Aloha Tower
Hawaiian way of saying welcome is by a 184-foot-tall lighthouse.
Since it was built in the early 1900s, the Aloha Tower, a 184-foot lighthouse in Honolulu Harbor, has welcomed millions of sailors and other travelers.
The tower gave light to soldiers during World War II, which is essential to the community.
The Aloha Tower is Hawaii’s version of the Statue of Liberty. It is a well-known landmark.
It has a gothic style, and when the outside lights go out and the inside lights come on, it looks like something from a scary monster story.
Aloha Tower is now more of a tourist attraction than a lighthouse, but that doesn’t mean it’s no longer a lighthouse.
For the best views of Honolulu’s coast, visitors may climb up to the 124th floor of the tower, where restaurants and shops can be found.
You can find things to do in the Aloha Tower Marketplace like a shopping mall and a restaurant.
If you’re visiting Hawaii, make sure you hop on to Aloha Tower.
Address: 155 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA
Chinatown
The Chinatown is one of the top attractions in Hawaii.
Experience the vibrant neighborhood of Honolulu by visiting the famous Chinatown.
One of the oldest Chinatowns in Hawaii is located in the “Chinatown Historic District,” one of Honolulu’s four great districts.
Anywhere you look, you’ll see Chinese culture filling the spot.
It is an incredible mix of historical attractions and modern-day shopping and entertainment.
There are 10 acres of kiosks, markets, and shops, making it one of the largest shopping malls in the world.
If you want to try Chinese food, try their local delicacies, such as lazi ji (steamed buns) and dazhu gansi (tofu soup).
Craving for sour spices? The mini-malls of their open-air markets offer food that is also good for your health.
In addition, fish, fresh meat, and produce from the Oahu Market draw locals who appreciate the variety among the lei stands, noodle manufacturers, and hole-in-the-wall cafes.
Several ancient buildings on the second floor are also a must-see in the area.
You may also check out their souvenir shops and grab a lucky charm.
Address: Chinatown Cultural Plaza, 100 N Beretania St
Corsair Wreck Dive Site
Divers looking for a thrill should try Corsair Wreck Dive Site in Honolulu, Hawaii.
The place is a well-known diving area among snorkelers and scuba divers to the site; they have either brought in fish and coral or built artificial wrecks.
It’s on the southeast coast of Oahu, about three miles south of the Hawaii Kai Marina.
If you have the skills and want to see what’s left of a WWII plane underwater, Corsair Wreck Dive Site is one of the best non-touristy things to do in Hawaii.
Divers and photographers come to this place because an authentic World War II plane is underwater.
It’s on the southeast coast of Oahu, about three miles south of the Hawaii Kai Marina.
It is 115 feet below the ground and can only be reached by boat and tour from a port in Honolulu.
The site is only for advanced divers due to its strong current.
Stingrays, garden eels, and jacks also wander around the World War II Plane crash.
Bring your snorkeling gear with you and try out the challenge at Corsair Wreck Dive Site.
Address: Honolulu, Hawaii, 96825 United States
Deciding to travel to Hawaii? You cannot miss out on visiting Waikiki and Maui. Bust into the unique things to do in Waikiki, Hawaii, and the best things to do in Maui, Hawaii!
Diamond Head
The most famous volcanic crater in the world can only be found in Honolulu.
Diamond Head is a unique crater that was made 300,000 years ago.
Native Hawaiians called it L’ahi, named after British sailors from the 1800s, which means “Tuna Brow” because it looks like a fin,
In the 19th century, sailors named it Diamond Head because they thought the bright calcite crystals were diamonds.
The historic mountain was once the coastal defense on the island’s east side.
To reach the top of the crater, visitors must climb 560 feet from the bottom, about a mile.
You can see a broad view of the land, sea, and sky around you.
Hikers enjoy the breathtaking views of Diamond Head, the Pacific Ocean, and Waikiki Beach will make you feel like you’re on the top of the world.
Spend every moment of your trip thrilled by the view of Diamond Head.
Address: 18th Ave., Waikiki, Honolulu, Oahu, HI 96815, USA
Halona Blowhole
A hidden gem in Honolulu, perfect to discover its wonders.
The Halona Blowhole, at its most dangerous, is on the Big Island of Hawaii.
Divers can be carried out to sea by the strong currents under the cliffs, and the term “blowhole” comes from the waves that crash into the rock formations.
When the water is pushed past the rocks, it becomes like a geyser.
The flowing geyser is a natural wonder of Hawaii. Over the years, it has been in several music videos, movies, and TV shows.
The water rises even higher than usual, and the tides are more vital than usual when hot and windy. Hence, the best time to visit the Halona Blowhole is during the summer.
The Cove is right in the path of the annual migration of humpback whales, sea turtles, and birds that lay eggs, so you will never get bored visiting Halona Blowhole.
Even though it’s not in many Honolulu travel guides, the Halona Blowhole is still one of the best places to visit.
It’s beneficial if you’re looking for things to do besides the usual tourist spots.
The beautiful scenery around the geyser is a must-see spot when you’re in the place.
Address: Halona Blow HoleHonolulu, HI 96825, USA
Have the intention to visit Hawaii? Kauai and Oahu are places you should not miss when in this state! Check out the best things to do in Kauai, Hawaii, and the best things to do in Oahu, Hawaii.
Hanauma Bay
Chill out and enjoy your lemonade at Honolulu’s tropical island.
One of the reasons why more than a million people visit the Bay every year is its preservation.
It is a nature preserve and marine education center where tourists may learn about how delicate marine life is and the best way to enjoy it without scaring the fish or hurting the corals.
The sand is full of seashells and pieces of coral, and the water is clear as glass.
It is full of marine life, from schools of parrotfish and sea turtles that can be seen.
At Hanauma Bay, people can do many things; you can swim, dive, surf, snorkel, or chill out under an umbrella with a good book and a fruity drink.
It’s a popular place for tourists to visit in Honolulu. Still, erosion and the movement of marine life have made it hard to enjoy.
Because of this, the Bay is closed every Tuesday to keep people around it safe.
The best time to visit the place is during the weekend, so bring your snorkeling gear, a defogger for your mask, and vinyl acetate fins.
Address: 100 Hanauma Bay Drive, Ueber Kalanianaole Highway, Honolulu, Oahu, HI 96825
Honolulu Museum of Art
The largest private museum with over 50,000 pieces of art is a must-see place in Hawaii.
Anna Rice Cooke started it in 1922, and it first opened its doors in 1927.
It has one of the country’s best art collections from the Pacific Rim and Asia.
One of the ten best Asian art collections in the country is in one of the country’s 48 galleries of art from 5,000 years ago.
The museum has works by Warhol, Picasso, Monet, Van Gogh, Hokusai, and Gauguin, which are considered its most important pieces.
The museum is also home to the Robert Allerton Art Research Library, the Honolulu Museum of Art School, and the Doris Duke Theater, with a wide range of performances and events.
On a good weekend, you can do printmaking workshops, watch movies, and take pottery classes with other people who want to become artists.
Dolls with hand-painted faces for your knitting are also available in the museum.
See the Honolulu Museum of Art’s amazing collections from different eras and cultures.
Address: 900 S Beretania St, Honolulu, Oahu, HI 96814-1495, USA
Honolulu Zoo
Honolulu Zoo is home to about 1,000 species of animals and is a great place to spend time with your family!
It is the only zoo in the United States that started when King David Kalakaua gave royal land to the public in 1876 is an excellent place to learn about the history and spend time with animals.
The zoo stretches for about 42-acre, where many of the animals in the Honolulu Zoo are unique and rare.
Tourists can get close to everything from poisonous tree frogs to giant lions.
Some animals are orangutans, elephants, komodo dragons, birds, reptiles, and many African animals.
Visitors can also participate in several special events and educational programs at the zoo.
The Honolulu Zoo is open every day except Christmas, so bringing younger kids there is a good idea.
There are camps and holiday celebrations for every season.
A hot breakfast awaits after spending the night at the zoo and the following day, there are the “Snooze at the Zoo” program and “Twilight Tours.”
Make sure to make a reservation when you’re planning to visit the zoo!
Address: 151 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, Hawai’i 96815
Kaka’ako
Craving for bubble tea? Hop on to Kaka’ako and grab a bubble tea while enjoying other things in the destination.
Kaka’ako is a place for people who love following art and cultural trends.
In this lively neighborhood, young people get together for outdoor concerts and food truck competitions.
However, if you’d look back at Kaka’ako’s history, today is nothing like its past.
It was an industrial ghost town with many empty warehouses and auto shops.
Until then, graffiti artists didn’t have much to work on within the city.
As artists moved into the area, people became more interested in it again, and trendy boutiques did the same.
Every corner of the town has a microbrewery, bar, or cafe, so you’ll never run out of things to do.
Try attending POW! POW! Every February, Hawai’i, where hundreds of artists globally attend, uses Honolulu’s neighborhood as its canvas for murals and street art.
Kaka’ako Farmers sell goods at a discounted price, such as locally grown fruits and vegetables, coffee, and fresh bread every week.
If you love to drink beer, enjoy a night out in Kaka’ako, for they have several pubs, museums, and breweries.
Shopping and eating in the place is also favorite thing for most tourists.
You can do several things in Kaka’ako, so make sure to visit the place!
Address: Kaka’ako Honolulu, HI, USA.
Kuhio Beach Park
Kuhio Beach Park is where you can lie down on a beach towel without worrying about crowded people.
It has the best spot for people who would like to spend their time peacefully.
It is known for its calm water and easygoing vibe.
Kuhio Beach got its name in honor of Prince Jonah Kuhio, which means flower from the wreath of heaven.
It is a popular place to surf and bodyboard in Queens neighborhood and Waikiki’s canoes.
Inside this beach park, you can find a lot of local landmarks.
Locals believe that the Wizard Stones of Kapaemahu have the power to make people better. The statues of Prince Kuhio and Duke Kahanamoku tell the story of Hawaii.
Some of the things to see in the park are the Prince Kuhio Statue, the Duke Kahanamoku Statue, and the Stones of Kapaemahu.
The park also has a Sean Browne sculpture of the Olympic swimmer, surfer, and canoeist.
Add Kuhio beach to your bucket list and enjoy the beach with your family.
Address: Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, Oahu, HI 96815, USA
Kualoa Ranch
If you’re a fan of Jurassic Park, you will surely love going to Kualoa Ranch.
It is one of the biggest and most well-known destinations in Hawai’i due to its family-friendly trips that you won’t find anywhere in the state.
Kualoa Ranch is a half-hour drive from Honolulu.
If you have a car, make sure you roll down your windows and enjoy the fresh air on your way.
The movie Jurassic Park was filmed in Kualoa Ranch, so it is popular among tourists.
You may have seen its cliffs, farms, and hills in shows like Lost and Hawaii Five-O, which use them as a background.
At Kualoa Ranch, you can zipline through the trees, ride an ATV, or take a tour in a Land Rover.
On vacation, you can also go kayaking or horseback riding.
There may be a bee colony in Kualoa’s “front-country” and tourist center, but tourism hasn’t changed the natural landscape or taken away from its importance.
Plan your trip, and don’t miss the opportunity to see the famous Kualoa Ranch.
Address: 49-560 Kamehameha Hwy, Kaneohe, HI 96744, USA
Leonard’s Bakery
Hawaii isn’t just about breathtaking views but is also famous for its food.
Once you take a deep breath, you can see why Leonard’s Bakery is a local favorite.
It’s a small store with a candy-striped awning in an unattractive part of Honolulu, near a few other stores.
The only way to know what it’s like to live in Hawaii is to eat some malasadas and get sugar all over your face.
A malasada is a Portuguese-style doughnut fried, sugar-dusted doughnut without holes. This is one of the best places in town to get them.
Malasadas are a big part of the culture of Hawaii. Everyone loves them and has their favorite flavor or filling.
If you want to get a natural feel for the island, you must eat like a local.
Leonard’s Bakery is a great place to do something non-touristy in Honolulu to avoid crowds.
Drop by the place and grab yourself a malasada.
Address: 933 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816, USA
Magic Island
A place where the magic happens —is Honolulu’s Magic Island.
Magic Island is majestic, with a small crescent-shaped beach between downtown Honolulu and Waikiki Beach.
Even though it is called Magic Island, it is not an island.
It is an artificial peninsula near Honolulu next to Ala Moana Beach Park, a place to hang out.
The Magic Island Peninsula was made by dredging coral.
It was supposed to be the site of a new hotel, but the hotel was never built, so the peninsula became a park.
The beach is the main attraction. Huge rocks protect it from the worst waves, so the water is usually calm and moderate.
The beach is safe from waves because of a granite wall, so it’s a great place to swim.
Unfortunately, the bottom is rocky, the sand isn’t as refined as Ala Moana Beach, and big waves easily wash over the rock barrier.
Still, the beach is a popular place for picnics, running, and surfing, and behind the shore, there is a nice grassy area with picnic tables and trees.
You can even take a sand yoga session!
Put on your flip-flops and wander around several restaurants, movie theaters, and stores from Magic Island.
Spend the day at the beach, and relax with a shrimp platter, the locals’ favorite dish when the sun goes down.
Address: 1201 Ala Moana Blvd, At the end of Ala Moana Beach Park, Honolulu, Oahu, HI 96814-4205, USA
Manoa Falls
Grab your hiking boots and take a 45-minute hike up the mountain for Manoa Falls will leave you mesmerized with its picturesque view.
The Lyon Arboretum is a 194-acre rainforest botanical garden and is about a 150-foot waterfall with a sparkling granite pool.
It has the most extensive collections of palms in a botanical garden. It has over 5,000 tropical species from Hawaii and Polynesia.
A tribe of ancient Hawaiian warriors called Nightmarchers still live in the area.
Manoa Falls has appeared in famous films such as The Hunger Games: Catching Fire and Jurassic Park.
The greenhouse has been established as an active research facility to preserve Florida’s tropical forests.
As beautiful as it may seem, the small pool below the overhanging cliff might appear inviting. Still, it is dangerous to swim in due to rocks falling from the cliff and bacteria from the water.
However, tourists may enjoy the refreshing air around the area.
It frequently rains in the rainforest, so make sure to bring rain gear with you and bug spray.
Bring your cameras with you and take selfies on the Manoa Falls.
Address: End of Manoa Road, Honolulu, Oahu, HI 96822, USA
Pearl Harbor
The Pearl Harbor is one of the best things to do in Hawaii.
Pay your respect to individuals who have sacrificed their lives during WWII.
In the heart of Honolulu’s sparkling beaches and resorts, there lurks a somber shadow known as Pearl Harbor.
The site of the infamous Japanese attack in December 1941 killed 2,403 people and forced the United States into WWII.
Pearl Harbor is both a National Historic Landmark and a functioning military installation.
It can be challenging to be presented with such a tragic past, but you’ll regret not visiting Pearl Harbor while in Honolulu.
The memorial floats above the submerged remnants of the USS Arizona, which was destroyed on December 7, 1941, along with 1,177 crew members.
The USS Bowfin Submarine, one of the few World War II combat submarines to survive, is a delightful historical sight that WWII enthusiasts will enjoy.
This ship, also known as the “Pearl Harbor Avenger,” sank 44 enemy vessels.
Enjoy a self-guided tour of the museum and learn more about its history.
Address: 1 Arizona Memorial Place, Honolulu, Hawaii
Polynesian Cultural Center
Don’t mistake this place for a boring museum— it has an amusement park on its own.
Visitors can do fun-filled activities like dancing the hula or throwing spears.
The main attraction at the cultural center is an authentic Hawaiian luau with live entertainment.
Some of the most popular things to do are visiting a Tonga village by watching a Maori warrior dance, canoeing, and fishing with actual Tahitian gear.
Polynesian Cultural Center is split into six parts, each representing a different island in the Polynesian archipelago, such as Samoa, Hawaii, or Fiji.
Each island has its activities and history from its home countries to share.
Some activities include Samoa villagers walking barefoot up to 40 feet high coconut palm trees.
Visitors can paddle a canoe down the lagoon while painted drummers play music in the Tonga village.
Dances and games include using poi balls in the settlements of Aotearoa.
If you’re in Honolulu, don’t miss the Polynesian Culture Center.
Address: 55-370 Kamehameha Hwy, Laie, HI 96762, USA
Royal Hawaiian Center
It is a haven for all shopping enthusiasts due to its architectural design and a great selection of high-end shops.
If you’re going to Honolulu, you’ll want to know where the best shopping is.
There are other shopping centers in the city besides the Royal Hawaiian Center.
We’ve already talked about the Ala Moana Center, Hawaii’s biggest mall.
But the Royal Hawaiian Center is not the same as its counterpart, which is bigger than life: It focuses on luxury brands.
High-end is the word that best describes the Royal Hawaiian Center.
From expensive stores to five-star restaurants, everything is full of wealth.
At the Royal Hawaiian Center, you don’t have to spend a lot of money to have a good time.
It is one of the most popular places to visit in Honolulu because of how well it is designed, laid out, built, and feels.
You can do some window shopping as you wander through its halls, and you never know what you might find.
Go to a festival with dance, music, and other Hawaiian traditions, shop at 110 different stores, and eat at 30 different places.
Address: 2201 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA
Sans Souci Beach Park
Suppose you don’t seek thrilling activity and a relaxing one instead. In that case, Sans Souci Beach Park will give you the best relaxation in your life.
The French name San Souci means “without worry.” In 1884, the name changed to Kaimana Beach.
The clean and shallow waters will allow tourists to enjoy the beach.
Individuals who are not fans of cliff diving or wave skiing should visit the beach.
The waves aren’t too big, and there’s a lot of shade from the palm trees. It’s a great place to chill out in Honolulu.
Sans Souci Beach is great for families because the water is shallow, there is sand, and there aren’t any strong currents.
You can also go snorkeling there. You can swim or kayak to the Kapua Channel from the beach, leading to Old Man’s well-known surf spot.
Suppose you’re in Honolulu and looking for a beach close to the city. In that case, Sans Souci Beach, also called Kaimana Beach, is only 5.3 miles away.
They have all kinds of water sports such as kayaking, swimming, surfing, snorkeling, and fishing.
Be amazed by the beauty of nature and learn about the beach’s rich cultural history.
Address: 2863 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, Oahu, HI 96815-4016, USA
Shark’s Cove
If you’re scared of seeing a shark in Shark’s Cove, worry not because you’re more likely to meet a turtle on the spot rather than a shark.
Shark’s Cove is a lava-rock beach on Oahu’s North Shore.
The 1,200-foot-long coral reef in Hawaii makes it one of the most popular places to snorkel and scuba dive.
It stands out because of the beautiful underwater rock formations and the wide range of marine life.
The Cove’s name came from the reef’s shape, which looks like the body of a shark when viewed from above.
Reef and volcanic rock make up most of the 80-acre marine life conservation park, which is about the length and width of a football field.
Volcanic activity in the past made a vast network of caves that you can explore.
Divers of all skill levels can find something to do between 15 and 45 feet.
Visitors may dive and snorkel in the area to see darting fish up close.
Try their helicopter tour to appreciate Shark’s Cover beauty when visiting the area.
Address: Sharks Cove, Pupukea, HI 96712, USA.
Waikiki
The Waikiki is one of the best places to visit in Hawaii.
The most beautiful tropical island in Hawaii is where you need to be.
Waikiki is a well-known spot all over the world.
Kaanapali Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Waikiki.
It has a two-mile-long white sandy beach, tall palm trees, and a bright blue sea.
Some of the most popular things to do in the area are boogie boarding, swimming, tours on a catamaran or an outrigger canoe, and surfing.
Some of the beaches in Waikiki are Kuhio Beach, Queen Surf Beach, and Fort DeRussy Beach.
There are several high-end hotels, beach bars, restaurants, and shops right on the beach.
Colorful shops sell souvenirs and surfboards, but most of the buildings along the coast are tall.
You can go to the beach, learn how to make a lei, shop at open-air markets, or eat while watching fireworks over the ocean.
The best thing to do in Waikiki is to watch the sunset while eating or shopping.
The best time to visit Waikiki is during the spring because the Honolulu Festival is held during the season.
Don’t miss out on the chance to travel to Waikiki; plan your trips now!
Address: 2335 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA
Volunteer At Animal Shelters
Volunteer at a local animal shelter. Many animal shelters are run by groups that are non-profit in nature, so they depend on donations, gifts, and adoption fees to keep going. Any help you can give, whether it’s food, newspapers, or even your time, would be appreciated.
Do you know that rewarding and warm sensation you get when you realize that you have just done something selfless that will significantly brighten another person’s day? This is the prize you will receive each time you assist a shelter animal that is ill or in distress.
If you want to help animals, you might adopt or donate. There’s a simple method to help. Go to an animal shelter to volunteer. You can help with cleaning, grooming, advocacy, PR, and even photography.
Volunteering at a local animal shelter and giving back to the community is one of the most meaningful things you can do. Look at the list of animal shelters in Honolulu, Hawaii, to get started.
Traveling and having fun in the USA? You have to check out this page – the best states to visit in USA for the most fun and unusual travel ideas.
You haven’t made up your mind to go to Honolulu, Hawaii, yet, have you? Visit reasons to visit Honolulu, Hawaii, at least once in your lifetime here.
