Honolulu or the “Big Pineapple” as the people call it, is the capital city of Hawaii. It is one of those places that gives you that vacation feeling the moment you arrive. If you want to witness vibrant city life with a little hint of history then this beautiful city in Hawaii just might be for you. It brings in the chill “Aloha” atmosphere with it. This place also one of the best beaches in Hawaii for swimming and surfing. If you are someone who is interested in and looking for an adventure then you need to look no further than Honolulu. And if you were searching for “Top things to do in Honolulu,” then you don’t need to look any further than this article.
Top 7 Best Things To Do In Honolulu
1. Relax at the Waikiki Beach
You can’t really go to Honolulu and not spend some quality time at Waikiki Beach. Waikiki Beach is the heart of the city’s coastal life. If you want to spend some relaxation time and haven’t got a plan then this place is just for you. You can watch the surfers glide across the wavy sea or you can just sit under a palm tree to relax and watch the pretty sunset. The Wikiki Beach is an easy place to spend hours without a plan.
Things You can do here
- You can get some beginner-friendly surfing lessons
- You can swim or relax by the shore
- Try to watch the sunset over the Pacific
- Beachfront dining is a must-try
2. Hike up Diamond Head State Monument
If you want to visit a place that will absolutely stun you and leave you speechless then go to the Diamond Head State Monument. The whole place is a volcanic crater and that is why it offers the most iconic hike in Honolulu. The hiking trail goes through a lot of stairs and tunnels which makes you put in extra effort to complete the hike. Effort just enough to feel rewarding. When you reach the top the view of Wikiki beach and the ocean makes all the extra efforts worth it.
Things You can do here
- You can hike to the summit viewpoint
- Taking photos of the Honolulu skyline is a must
- You can also learn about its volcanic history
- You can explore the crater surroundings
Pro tip – visit early in the morning to avoid the crowd.
3. Visit Pearl Harbor National Memorial
Pearl Harbor offers a powerful glimpse into our history. If you visit the USS Arizona Memorial then you may find it to be quite a moving experience. Especially because it was built in memory of the 1,177 crewmen who lost their lives during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor during World war 2. The site has museums, exhibits and preserved landmarks. And all of them together give context to one of the most important moments in U.S. history.
Things You can do here
- You should definitely visit the USS Arizona Memorial to pay tribute to all who lost their lives
- You can explore museum exhibits
- You can take a tour of the USS Missouri Battleship
- You can also watch historical documentaries
4. Explore Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
Hanauma Bay can make you feel like you have suddenly stepped into an aquarium made by Mother Nature. It is one of the best spots for snorkeling in Hawaii. And what makes it one of the best is its clear water that is full of colorful marine life. The Hanauma Bay is a protected area which means its environment is well-preserved. Here you feel more connected with nature and the waves.
Things You can do here
- You can go snorkeling with tropical fish
- You can relax on the beach
- You can take beautiful photos from above
- Or you can learn about the marine conservation
Pro tip – Due to it being a protected area, entry is limited. Make sure you make an early entrance.
5. Walk Through Iolani Palace
Iolani Palace gives you a completely different side of Honolulu. A side that has royal history. It’s the only royal palace in the whole entirety of the United States. Walking through it can give you a glimpse into Hawaii’s royal past. The architecture and the furniture here tell a story that feels grand and somehow still personal.
Things You can do here
- You should take a proper guided palace tour
- You can explore historic rooms and halls
- You can learn about the Hawaiian monarchy
- Witness the beautiful architecture of the place
6. Discover Manoa Falls
Tired of beaches? Then try something different and refreshing. At Manoa Falls the trail takes you through a beautiful and lush rainforest with a bit of mist in the air. Hiking here gives you a beautiful experience as it’s not a very hard terrain so first timers can have a good time here. And the waterfall at the end adds a rewarding finish to the walk.
Things You can do here
- You can hike through the rainforest trail
- Enjoy a peaceful walk away from crowds
- You can visit the waterfall viewpoint
- Take a lot of photos of the nature
7. Drive Along the Windward Coast of Oahu
One of the best things to do in Honolulu, Hawaii, is to leave the city for some time and explore the coastlines. The windward side of Oahu has some of the most scenic views you’ll find. Lush green mountains on one side and turquoise colored ocean on the other. The atmosphere here is pretty laid-back. This place is famous for water sports.
Things You can do here
- You can take a scenic coastal drive
- You can stop and have fun at Lanikai or Kailua Beach
- You should definitely try local food stops along the way
- Here you can enjoy less crowded beaches
Experience Local Food in Honolulu
Food is a big part of Honolulu’s experience and trying local dishes is easily one of the most enjoyable things to do in here. You can taste a lot of different flavours here. Flavors from Hawaii, Japan, the Philippines and more. The food here is delicious an shoul be tasted at least once.
What to try
- You should try fresh poke bowls
- You should definitely try the food at local food trucks
- You should also try its famous shaved ice desserts
Final Thoughts
When it comes to the best things to do in Honolulu for first timers the key is to try all the places all. Spend time at the beach but also explore a bit of history and hike into nature. Eat a lot of tasty food and experience the Hawaiian culture. If you are a first-timer in Hawaii and want to explore everything that Honolulu has to offer then you should book our Hawaii charter bus services right now so that you can relax and leave the travelling part to us.