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Need help planning a trip to Honolulu? You’ve come to the right place!
Honolulu is full of bucket-list experiences – so many that it’s challenging to figure out exactly what to do! But that’s why we’re here to help.
After visiting this island paradise multiple times, we’ve tried most of the big-ticket activities and put together a list of the top 15! Whether you want to relax on a boat, hike a volcano, catch a luau, or explore the whole island, we’ve got a little bit of everything included.
Keep reading to find out about my favorite activities in Honolulu!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Honolulu was this turtle snorkeling tour! Swimming with these iconic Hawaii creatures was a bucket-list experience, and the reef, tropical fish, and clear water were the cherry on top.
- Don't Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Things to do in Honolulu, Hawaii
- 1. Tour the entire island in one day
- 2. See a traditional Luau
- 3. Explore Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial
- 4. Go snorkeling with sea turtles
- 5. Take a Glass-Bottom boat to see wildlife
- 6. Relax on a sunset cruise
- 7. Go parasailing
- 8. Visit the famous Waikiki Beach
- 9. Take a helicopter flight over Oahu
- 10. See an amazing magic show
- 11. Hike the Diamond Head Crater
- 12. Go surfing
- 13. Paddle an Outrigger Canoe
- 14. Take the Waikiki Trolley
- 15. Tour the Waikiki Aquarium
- Where to Stay in Honolulu, Hawaii
- Thanks for reading!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Renting a Car in the USA
- AIRALO e-SIM Up To 15% Off With Code "DTRAVEL15"
- What’s an eSIM?
Things to do in Honolulu, Hawaii
1. Tour the entire island in one day
- Duration: 9 hours
- Time: 6:30 am
- Highlights: See Oahu’s most iconic sights with a professional guide, learn about the island’s culture and history, tour the Dole Plantation a macadamia nut farm and the North Shore
- Inclusions: Hotel pick-up/drop-off, professional guide, bottled water, snacks, air-conditioned transportation
- Rating: 5 stars (check the 17,300+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check the price here!
The first time we visited Oahu, there was so much to see and do that I wasn’t too sure how we were going to fit it all into one trip. Luckily, I found this full-day sightseeing tour of the island that helped tick a lot of things off my to-do list!
Exploring Oahu in a single day sounds ambitious, but this tour does it seamlessly! Plus, we were able to leave the driving to someone else – a huge advantage, especially with the traffic leaving Honolulu!
Some of my favorite stops were the Nu’uanu Pali Lookout, with its spectacular views, and the Halona Blowhole, which can shoot water up to 30 feet (9 meters) in the air! Tasting fresh pineapple at the Dole Plantation and macadamia nuts straight from the farm was definitely up there for me as well.
Although one of my favorite parts was simply wandering around the North Shore in the famous surf town of Haleiwa on our own. It was super relaxed and we got to grab a Shave Ice from Matsumoto’s (order the rainbow with vanilla ice cream – trust me!) and try the famous garlic shrimp at the food trucks this side of the island is known for.
We think this tour is perfect for first-time visitors who want to learn more about the island and see many of its iconic sights in a short amount of time. I mean, with 17,000+ 5-star reviews (see them here!), you know it’s got to be good!
Check availability and secure your spot in advance here!
2. See a traditional Luau
- Duration: 4 hours
- Time: 5 pm
- Highlights: Hands-on Polynesian cultural activities before the show, traditional Hawaiian and Polynesian buffet dinner, cultural dance performances from across Polynesia, and an epic fire-knife finale
- Inclusions: Round-trip transportation from Waikiki (optional), all-you-can-eat Polynesian buffet, pre-show cultural activities, live music and Polynesian dance show, professional photos
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 2,800+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
We’ve been to quite a few luaus in Hawaii and by far, the Mauka Warriors Luau stands out as our favorite! You can even opt to include transport from Waikiki like we did, so you don’t need to worry about driving or parking, which makes it really easy.
What we loved most was that the experience started before the show. We got to try fun cultural activities like getting a temporary Polynesian tattoo, weaving coconut leaf headbands, and watching a traditional cooking demonstration. It felt interactive and not just like we were just sitting down for a performance. After that, we enjoyed a buffet dinner with a mix of Hawaiian and Polynesian dishes, and everything we tried was tasty and filling – the kalua pork and the grilled pineapple were standouts for me!
The show itself was fantastic and covered dances and stories from across Polynesia. The finale is what had us on the edge of our seats, though. The fire dancers were incredible, easily the best we’ve seen, and we’ve been to several luaus over the years! The energy, skill, and choreography were on another level – they even lit the ground on fire! Honestly, we think that this is one of the best cultural experiences on the island and the thousands of glowing reviews certainly attest to that.
Book this authentic luau here, before it sells out!
3. Explore Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial
- Duration: 5 to 9 hours
- Time: 8 am
- Highlights: Visit Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial Center, learn about WWII history and watch a documentary on the infamous attack, drive by iconic landmarks in downtown Honolulu
- Inclusions: Hotel pick-up/drop-off, professional guide, national park fees, entry fees (depending on the option selected), bottled water
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check the 4,800+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check prices here!
Most people come to Hawaii to experience the pristine beaches and lush natural landscapes, but Oahu also has a lot of WWII history. We love to learn about the places we are visiting, so the last time we went to Honolulu, I made sure this Pearl Harbor tour was at the top of our itinerary!
From the moment I stepped onto the bus, I knew I was in for something special. Our guide provided insightful commentary as we drove past historical landmarks such as the Iolani Palace and Punchbowl National Cemetery, which serves as a tribute to those who served in the United States Armed Forces.
The real heart of the tour, though, was visiting Pearl Harbor. It was here that the infamous attack by Japan happened on December 7, 1941. We visited the USS Arizona Memorial and watched a short documentary on the attack.
The film gave me goosebumps, but stepping onto the memorial itself was a moment I’ll never forget. Standing above the sunken battleship, surrounded by the names of the fallen, was deeply moving.
We opted for the Deluxe upgrade of the tour, so the USS Missouri battleship was up next. Touring the “Mighty Mo,” where World War II officially ended, was fascinating. For aviation buffs, we highly recommend doing the Ultimate upgrade that also adds on a visit to the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum.
We love that this tour wasn’t just sightseeing but a journey through Honolulu’s history that left us in awe. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or just curious about Hawaii’s past, this experience is an absolute must-do – just look at the thousands of 5-star reviews here!
Book this popular tour here and access FREE cancellation 24 hours before you depart!
4. Go snorkeling with sea turtles
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: Multiple departure times throughout the day
- Highlights: Head to Waikiki’s famous Turtle Canyon to snorkel with Hawaiian green sea turtles, view a variety of other marine life, enjoy snacks on the boat
- Inclusions: Professional guide, snorkeling equipment, snacks, light refreshments
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check the 4,600+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check the price here!
We were super keen to spot some sea turtles on our latest trip to Oahu, so we booked this Waikiki snorkel excursion!
The experience started with a quick briefing from our guide, who made sure everyone felt confident in the water before we set off toward Turtle Canyon. All the snorkeling gear was provided, so you don’t have to worry about packing anything extra, which is a huge bonus!
As soon as I dipped below the surface, it felt like stepping into another world. Hawaiian green sea turtles (aka “honu”), glided gracefully around the reef, sometimes coming so close I could see the intricate patterns on their shells! Turtles here are pretty much guaranteed as they love this spot – we’ve seen some every time we’ve come by here.
And above water, the excitement didn’t stop! Spinner dolphins made a surprise appearance as we were having a snack on the boat. It was the perfect way to end this amazing 2-hour experience.
This tour is my all-time favorite activity in Oahu, and I’m not alone, as it has over 4,200 5-star reviews! It is only 2 hours long, so it’s easy to fit into any busy travel itinerary.
Check out the THOUSANDS of positive reviews and book this tour here!
5. Take a Glass-Bottom boat to see wildlife
- Duration: 1 hour
- Time: Multiple departures between 8:15 am and 4 pm
- Highlights: Cruise along Waikiki Beach toward Diamond Head, glass-bottom viewing ports to spot tropical fish and coral, chance to see turtles, dolphins, and humpback whales in season, great views of Honolulu’s skyline from the water
- Inclusions: 1-hour sightseeing cruise, experienced captain and crew, bottled water, shaded seating, restroom on board
- Rating: 4.6 stars (check 2,100+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
We loved this glass-bottom boat cruise and thought it was a super easy way to see marine life without getting in the water. The boat leaves right from Waikiki, so it’s perfect if you want a fun activity without committing to a long day tour.
The “glass bottom” is made up of large viewing ports in the deck, so you can look straight down into the water and spot fish and coral as you cruise along the coast toward Diamond Head. We saw loads of colorful tropical fish, and the crew pointed out turtles swimming right beside the boat!
We did this tour during peak whale season (January to March) and got incredibly lucky. Two humpback whales swam right in front of the boat, and we watched them surface for about 10 minutes. We were at a safe distance, but close enough to hear the water spraying from their blowholes, which was such a surreal experience. Even if you don’t catch whales, the views back toward Waikiki and the skyline from the water are just beautiful. Plus, the crew told us earlier that day that other tours had seen monk seals and dolphins!
The boat is comfortable with shaded seating and a small restroom, and the crew was friendly and knowledgeable, pointing out wildlife and sharing fun facts along the way. It’s a great option if you want something relaxed, family-friendly, and easy to fit into your Honolulu itinerary.
You can book this fun boat cruise here, with free cancellation!
Related Read: If you need some help planning your vacation, be sure to check out our 5-day Honolulu itinerary, which outlines all the highlights, hidden gems, and places to eat!
6. Relax on a sunset cruise
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: 5 pm
- Highlights: Cruise along Waikiki’s coast on a premium catamaran to watch the sunset, spot marine life like dolphins and whales, see iconic Waikiki landmarks from the water
- Inclusions: Experienced captain and crew, one alcoholic beverage
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check the 2,200+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check prices here!
There’s nothing in the world quite like a Hawaiian sunset, so we jumped at the chance to do this sunset catamaran cruise the last time we were in Honolulu. Watching the sun go down over the Waikiki coast was pure magic!
We set sail from Kewalo Harbor just as golden hour began and were welcomed on board with a premium cocktail. The catamaran itself was spacious and comfortable, with plenty of room to soak in the views along Waikiki’s iconic coastline.
As the sun dipped lower, the sky exploded into a masterpiece of color – deep oranges, soft pinks, and vivid purples all blending together. The silhouette of Diamond Head against this vibrant backdrop was like something out of a postcard.
But it wasn’t just the sunset that stole the show. We spotted playful dolphins jumping out of the water and from November to May, you might even catch sight of majestic humpback whales making their seasonal migration. The friendly crew also shared lots of interesting facts with us about the surrounding landmarks and marine life, which really enhanced the experience
The cruise includes one complimentary cocktail, and any additional drinks cost $8 USD, which is pretty reasonable. You can also upgrade to the VIP experience which includes a souvenir cup and allows you to board the boat first to get a good seat.
Click here to reserve your spot on this premium sunset cruise!
7. Go parasailing
- Duration: 1 hour
- Time: Multiple departure times throughout the day
- Highlights: Soaring above the water, the scenic views, encouraging crew
- Inclusions: Parasailing experience, experienced crew, fuel surcharge
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check the 7,600+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check prices here!
If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush with unbeatable views, this parasailing adventure from Waikiki is the way to go! Dan and I recently took to the skies the last time we were in Oahu, and it was nothing short of epic.
We started at Kewalo Basin Harbor, where we got a quick safety briefing, then were strapped into a harness and ready for takeoff. As the boat sped up, we were gently lifted into the air and were soon soaring 700 feet (213 meters) above the crystal-clear waters of Oahu’s southern coast.
The views of the city from above were absolutely breathtaking. We could see Diamond Head in the distance, and the turquoise ocean stretched all around us. It honestly feels like you’re flying!
For those wanting to crank up the adventure, there’s an option to upgrade to an 800-foot (244 meter) or 1,000-foot (305 meter) line, but 700 feet was plenty thrilling for me.
If you’re traveling with someone who wants to go parasailing, but it’s not really your thing, you can book to go on the boat as an observer only for a reduced rate. No matter what option you choose, make sure you bring some extra cash along if you want to buy the photo and GoPro packages.
Parasailing is safe, exhilarating, and offers a perspective of Oahu you simply can’t get from the ground. If you don’t believe me, just have a look at the 7,000+ 5-star reviews!
Don’t miss out – secure this thrilling parasailing tour here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
8. Visit the famous Waikiki Beach
Waikiki Beach is the most famous beach in Hawaii, and it really does live up to the hype! I fell in love with this beach the first time I visited Hawaii as a kid, and it still has that magic every time I come back.
This is the classic postcard stretch of coastline with golden sand, turquoise water, and Diamond Head rising in the background. We do recommend coming early in the morning, though, as this way you can beat the crowds and enjoy the beach at its quietest.
The water here is shallow with gentle waves, so it’s great for swimming and playing in the surf. It’s also a great spot for beginners if you want to try surfing – we did this surfing lesson on a past trip, and that feeling of riding the waves is addictive!
This is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, so even if you’re short on time, this is one spot that you absolutely should not skip!
9. Take a helicopter flight over Oahu
- Duration: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Time: Multiple departure times throughout the day
- Highlights: Enjoying an exhilarating 50-minute “doors-off” helicopter flight over Oahu, see iconic landmarks and remote areas, learn about the island from your pilot’s commentary
- Inclusions: Expert pilot, open-door helicopter ride, local taxes
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check the 1,300+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check prices here!
We have been lucky enough to go on a few helicopter rides during our travels, but none have been as scenic as this helicopter flight over Oahu!
There is truly no better way to experience the vast beauty of this island than from the air, taking in views of the mountains, lush valleys, and waterfalls. We also flew over some of the island’s most iconic sights, like Pearl Harbor and the Halona Blowhole, while our pilot provided interesting commentary.
Our pilot even pointed out Ka’a’awa Valley – where Jurassic Park and many other Hollywood blockbusters were filmed. Even if you have seen these areas from the ground, seeing them from the sky offers a whole new perspective!
Oh, and the best thing about this experience? The helicopter had no doors! While this might freak some people out, don’t worry, you are safely strapped in. The lack of doors made the experience even more exciting and allowed us to have unobstructed views of the island and ocean below – keep your eyes peeled for any whales jumping in the distance!
And with only four guests allowed in each helicopter, everyone had a good view. If you want an even better view, though, you can upgrade to “first-class seating” where you are guaranteed to sit up front with the pilot.
Reserve this tour now and pay later when you book in advance here!
10. See an amazing magic show
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: 5 pm or 7:30 pm
- Highlights: Seeing world-class magicians and performers, intimate show setting, classic parlor magician, VIP options available
- Inclusions: Small group show, one complimentary alcoholic drink, front row seating (if VIP option selected), free valet parking
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 2,700+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check prices here!
After spending a day out in the sun, we needed an activity that’s a little different pace! Luckily, one of the best magic shows in the world happens to be in Honolulu – no joke! So we were eager to book these tickets to the Magic Mystery Show and it was truly as awesome as we thought it would be.
The Magic Mystery Show is a bit of a hidden gem. The magician, Shoot Ogawa, is genuinely impressive and is known as one of the best sleight-of-hand magicians in the world. The show is set in a Victorian-style parlor, which gives it a cool, old-school vibe, and the mix of magic and humor keeps it entertaining the whole time.
One thing we really loved about this experience was how intimate it was. We’ve been to big-stage shows before, and I must say, this smaller show setting was even more impressive because we were up close to the magic. Seeing a goldfish disappear right in front of your eyes is mind-blowing from the front row!
This also allowed the magician to interact with the audience, which made it much more personal. He really tried to include everyone in the show – I even got to take one of the disappearing cards home as a souvenir!
Overall, we loved this experience and thought it was such a fun night out in Honolulu. We aren’t the only ones who feel this way either – check out the 2,600+ 5-star reviews!
Don’t miss out – reserve tickets to this world-class magic show in advance here.
11. Hike the Diamond Head Crater
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: 6:20, 7:20, 8:20 am or 9:20
- Highlights: Hiking to the top of Diamond Head, self-guided tour so you can move at your own pace, morning hike to beat the crowds
- Inclusions: Hotel pickup/drop-off, private transportation, National Park fees
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 900+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: No
- Price: Check prices here!
We love an early morning hike and summiting Diamond Head is easily one of the best things to do in Honolulu. However, you now need a reservation to hike here and spots tend to fill up fast, so we booked this self guided tour that included transportation and entrance fees and it made our experience seamless!
Our driver, Tommy, picked us up from our hotel early in the morning and drove us right to the trailhead. We beat the crowds and the heat going first thing in the morning too!
Once we reached the trailhead, it took up about 45 minutes to get to the top. It’s a moderately challenging hike because of the incline (you’re climbing a volcano after all!), but the path is paved and easy to follow. Just make sure to wear proper hiking shoes – I attempted the hike in flip-flops once, and my shoe broke during the hike!
We appreciated that the hike itself was self-guided, so we didn’t have to wait for a group or try to keep up with a guide. We stopped plenty of times to take photos (okay – maybe it was to catch our breath!) and soon reached the summit!
The views always make it worth it and If you’re lucky, you may even see whales from up here! We think this hike is well worth it!
Check availability and book this hiking tour in advance
Related Read: Staying in Waikiki gives you easy access to many of the activities on our list! Our top 10 hotels in Waikiki can help you narrow down where to stay.
12. Go surfing
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Time: Multiple slots available from 8 am – 4 pm
- Highlights: Beginner-friendly surf lesson on Waikiki Beach, learn paddling and standing techniques, personalized instruction from a professional surf coach, ride gentle Waikiki waves with expert guidance
- Inclusions: Professional surf instructor, surfboard rental, basic safety and land instruction, time in the water practicing surfing
- Rating: 5.0 stars (check 175+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check prices here!
Taking a surf lesson in Waikiki is a classic Hawaii experience, and it’s one of the easiest places in the world to learn! Waikiki Beach is famous for its gentle, rolling waves, which are perfect for beginners, and there are tons of surf schools right along the shore.
We booked this small-group lesson with a pro instructor and had such a great time. It started with a quick lesson on the beach where he showed us how to paddle, pop up, and keep our balance on the board. Once we headed into the water, we were actually surprised by how fast everyone was standing up! Within a few minutes, our instructor had everyone catching waves and riding toward the beach.
The instructor was super encouraging and gave individual tips, which makes a big difference if you’re nervous or totally new to surfing. The boards were stable and easy to use, and the whole vibe was relaxed and fun rather than intense or competitive.
Even if you’ve never tried surfing before, this is a really approachable way to give it a go. It’s also just a fun way to spend a couple of hours on the beach doing something a bit more adventurous than lounging on a towel. And trust me, there’s nothing quite like the feeling of catching your first wave in Waikiki!
Book this beginner-friendly surf lesson on Waikiki Beach here!
13. Paddle an Outrigger Canoe
- Duration: 20 minutes
- Time: Multiple departures throughout the day
- Highlights: Ride waves in a traditional Hawaiian outrigger canoe, paddle with a small group and licensed captain, learn about the history of outrigger canoeing (once a sport of Hawaiian royalty), great views of Waikiki and Diamond Head from the water
- Inclusions: Licensed captain and guide, outrigger canoe and paddles, all taxes and fees
- Rating: 4.6 stars (check 100+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: No
- Price: Check price here!
Paddling an outrigger canoe in Waikiki was such a fun experience! An outrigger canoe is a traditional Hawaiian canoe with a long, narrow hull and a stabilizing float (called an “outrigger”) attached to the side. This extra float keeps the canoe balanced, especially when riding waves, and it’s been used in Polynesia for centuries for fishing, travel, and sport. In fact, it was once the official sport of the Hawaiian Royal Family!
Today, outrigger canoeing is a big part of Hawaiian culture. It feels like a mix between boating and surfing, in the best way. When you head to Waikiki Beach, you’ll see these long canoes riding the waves along Waikiki Beach, and we were so curious that we just had to try it for ourselves!
We went out with a small group and a licensed captain who did most of the steering while everyone else helped paddle. Once we were out past the break, we turned back toward the beach and waited for a wave to catch us. When a wave hits, the canoe starts gliding forward, and it seriously feels like a mini roller coaster, but with ocean views and Diamond Head in the background!
This is a short activity, but it’s packed with adrenaline and laughs. We highly recommend it if you want something different from just swimming or lounging on the beach.
Book this fun outrigger canoe ride here!
14. Take the Waikiki Trolley
- Duration: 1, 4, or 7-day pass
- Time: Flexible, from 8:30 am onwards
- Highlights: Hop-on hop-off sightseeing around Waikiki and Honolulu, multiple routes including Diamond Head, Chinatown, and the North Shore coastline, scenic open-air trolley ride, freedom to explore at your own pace
- Inclusions: Unlimited hop-on hop-off trolley rides for the selected pass duration, access to multiple trolley routes, onboard narration and sightseeing transport
- Rating: 4.7 stars (check 4,700+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: No
- Price: Check prices here!
The Waikiki Trolley is a really convenient way to get around if you don’t want to rent a car or deal with Ubers everywhere. It works like a hop-on, hop-off bus, but with a fun, open-air trolley vibe, and it’s an affordable way to cover a lot of the main sights in Waikiki and Honolulu.
There are several different routes, and each one offers something different. The Blue Line is probably the most popular, as it offers ocean views and lots of coastal stops. It’s a really scenic route and perfect if you want beachy stops and nature.
The Red Line focuses more on history and culture, taking you through downtown Honolulu, Chinatown, and past landmarks like Iolani Palace, the Hawaii State Capitol, the King Kamehameha Statue, and Punchbowl Crater. If you’re into Hawaiian history, this is the route to take!
Then, the Pink Line is super handy for shopping and loops through a lot of Waikiki hotels. There’s also a Green Line that goes to Diamond Head and Kapiolani Park, which is perfect if you want to hike Diamond Head without worrying about parking.
And if you can’t decide, no worries! There are 1-, 4- and 7-day passes available, so you can enjoy all of the routes if you like. Each bus loop involves about 2 hours of travel time, but if you want to take your time and tick off lots of spots, it can easily become a full-day adventure.
Grab your trolley passes in advance here so you’re set to explore!
15. Tour the Waikiki Aquarium
Touring the Waikiki Aquarium is a really fun and affordable activity, especially if you want something easy to add to your itinerary. It’s located right by the beach in Kapiolani Park, so it’s simple to pair with a beach day or a walk along the shoreline.
The aquarium is on the smaller side, so you don’t need hours here. We spent about an hour walking around and felt like that was perfect. It’s great if you’re traveling with kids or just want a quick break from the sun.
We loved seeing the baby seahorses and colorful clown fish, plus the reef sharks and the tanks of jellyfish that reached up to the ceiling. One of the highlights for us was meeting the rescued monk seal named Hō‘ailona. Monk seals are native to Hawaii and pretty rare to see, so it was cool to learn more up close. We even got to watch a monk seal feeding – and hear Hō‘ailona bark at the trainer when she was out of fish for him, which made us laugh!
Overall, the Waikiki Aquarium is a nice, budget-friendly activity that doesn’t take up your whole day. We were surprised by how much we enjoyed it, and we always try to pop in.
Where to Stay in Honolulu, Hawaii
Now that you’re set to explore the best Honolulu has to offer, it’s time to find a great place to stay. Waikiki (the main neighborhood in Honolulu) is the obvious choice, but picking a hotel from the hundreds of choices can feel overwhelming. Luckily, we have standout picks for all budgets – including our favorite beachfront hotel where we stayed for our last trip!
All the hotels below are in Central Waikiki for that classic Hawaiian vacation vibe and put you close to the beach and the best restaurants and shopping. Our biggest tip is to book early – Waikiki is popular for a reason, and you don’t want to miss out on your top choice!
The Royal Hawaiian – $$$
If you’ve ever dreamed of staying in that famous pink hotel on Waikiki Beach, this is the one. The Royal Hawaiian is an icon, a Luxury Collection resort with its own stretch of sand and that “old Hawaii” glamour. Rooms are bright and tropical, with garden or ocean views, and the hotel’s location on Waikiki Beach makes it easy to enjoy Diamond Head views and live entertainment.
With a full-service spa, two gorgeous outdoor pools, and cultural activities, it’s a proper treat-yourself stay. Luxury like this doesn’t come cheap, but it’s definitely money well spent! Rooms here start from around $500 USD per night. Check staying here off your bucket list by booking here!
OUTRIGGER Waikiki Beach Resort – $$ (Where we stayed!)
The OUTRIGGER Waikiki Beach Resort is our favorite pick in Waikiki — we loved every minute of our stay! Located directly on Waikiki Beach, it’s steps from the sand and is home to the legendary Duke’s restaurant. We loved listening to the ocean from our balcony and watching the water turn golden at sunset. Plus, it was so easy for beach days since we went from our room to having our feet in the sand in two minutes!
Rooms come with air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, fridges, and coffee makers, so you’re set up for relaxed beach days and easy mornings. We also love the little extras like free water bottles and a beach bag, and daily cultural activities (think lei-making and ukulele lessons). It’s a brilliant all-rounder in Waikiki with rooms starting around $350 USD per night. See if there’s a room available for your trip here!
Hotel Renew – $
Hotel Renew is a budget-friendly gem just one block from Waikiki Beach. This modern boutique hotel is known for its calming vibe and thoughtful touches, like beach towels and gear for guests to borrow. The bright, clean rooms are simple but comfortable, with plush beds and a 50-inch flat-screen TV for cozy nights in. Some rooms even have a partial ocean view or a balcony—perfect for sipping a morning coffee before hitting the sand.
Rates at Hotel Renew typically start at around $150–$250 USD per night, making it a great option for budget travelers who still want comfort and a prime Waikiki location. Check availability and book Hotel Renew online in advance!
For even more options, check out all the hotels in Honolulu here.
Related Read: Once you have your base, make sure to check our guide on booking a shuttle from Honolulu Airport to your hotel – we always get one that includes a lei greeting!
Renting a Car in the USA
The United States is a vast country with diverse landscapes, from bustling cities to scenic national parks. While public transportation exists in major cities, renting a car is often the best way to explore the country’s wide-open spaces and hidden gems.
We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find the right vehicle for your needs, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in the USA
- Drive on the right: In the U.S., vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road, and the driver’s seat is on the left. If this is different than your home country, take some time to adjust before hitting busy streets!
- Know the local rules: Speed limits, road signs, and driving laws can differ between states. For example, turning right on red is generally allowed after a complete stop, unless a sign indicates otherwise. Always check the specific rules for the states you’ll be driving in.
- Add full insurance: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance, especially in the U.S., where long distances, varying road conditions, and unpredictable weather can lead to unexpected situations. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable!) to add this peace of mind when you book.
- Choose the right car: Consider the nature of your trip. For city driving, a compact car is convenient, while for road trips or national park visits, an SUV might be more comfortable. With Discover Cars, it’s easy to filter by vehicle type, transmission, fuel efficiency, and more to find the perfect fit.
What You Need to Rent a Car in the USA
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in English or uses a non-Roman alphabet. Some rental companies may require it, so it’s best to check in advance.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the USA on your own terms!
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What’s an eSIM?
An eSIM is a digital version of a SIM card. Instead of buying a little plastic chip and swapping it into your phone, you just download it. It connects your phone to a local network in whatever country you’re visiting — no stores, no waiting, and no fiddling with tiny cards.
In simple terms, it’s the easiest way to get data and stay connected while traveling.
We’ve tested a bunch of eSIMs over the years, and after a few frustrating experiences, we’ve found our favorite — Airalo. It’s fast, reliable, and incredibly easy to use. You can set it up in minutes (even my mom managed it solo on her first try!), and the prices are some of the best out there.
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Exploring the best of Honolulu is a must while you’re spending time on beautiful Oahu. I’ve been coming to this island since I was a kid and find something new I love with every trip. Whether you’re relaxing on the beach, watching whales or the sunset from a boat, taking in a luau, or snorkeling with turtles, there’s sure to be some unforgettable memories from your Hawaiian vacation.
Before you pack your bathing suit and sandals, have a look through all our Hawaii blogs! From the best tours on Maui to detailed Oahu itineraries, we cover all the islands with tips and tricks for each. So whether you’ll be island-hopping or know exactly where you’re spending your trip, you’ll find something helpful!
How to Spend ONE Day on the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii: Day Trip Itinerary