Before we dive into all the fun things I did on my trip to Honolulu, let me tell you: I’d been planning this trip for the longest time, and I just couldn’t figure out whether to go solo or with a friend. in this blog we will explain top things to do in Honolulu. Eventually, I did end up going on a solo trip to Honolulu. Needless to say, I was super pumped about having the best time of my life, and I was equally excited to tell you guys all about it. It’s always best to have your days planned out according to your preferences.
I personally am a deep diver, a curious cat when it comes to visiting new places. This was my very first time, and I am already planning on going back. There were so many new experiences that I got to have in this wonderful place. Here are my recommendations for things to do in Honolulu, not just as a solo traveller, but also if you are a couple or looking for family things to do in Honolulu.
I went to explore the captivating capital of Hawai’i in the most suggested month of May, people recommend visiting in cooler months of September and October, but it can rain quite alot so that was not my pick. I wanted to get the whole summer vibe for my basket list of fun things to do in Honolulu, Hawaii.
Exploring Waikiki
For fun things to do in honolulu hawaii, all I got is don’t miss going to Waikiki. But along with that, make sure you don’t stick it to. It can feel like checking every place off, but trust me, there’s more to see, so a day or two at Waikiki will get you well acquainted. Located on the island of Oahu, this is the most hyped neighborhood in Honolulu. This is a walkable place with beaches, along with luxury stores like Fendi and Sephora. It was unlike what I had imagined beach life to look like. But surely it was a lovely start, full of color and life. You can easily find fun family things to do in Honolulu here. Make sure to catch the hula performances and Hawaiian music in the evenings.
Hike at Diamond Head
3 miles east of Waikiki, you will find this well-maintained and laid out path where you can hike to Diamond Head. As you walk, you will find a reservation center. Make sure to get your tickets, or you can also get them pre-booked. It is one of the most popular tourist hikes in the region. It is actually a volcanic tuff, and you get to walk upto the highest point overlooking the whole of Waikiki. I met a lot of wonderful people on my way up and actually found some company. It was so much better to know other tourists, and in no time, I was there. And yes, it was breathtaking. If you love nature and hikes, this should be on your things to do in Honolulu for couples list.
Iolani Palace Guided Tour
Located in downtown Honolulu, this is the only royal palace in the United States. Making it distinct and unique in itself, I love all this art and history, so this had me excited. You can definitely check this out for family things to do in Honolulu. This palace served as the official residence of Hawaiian monarchs King Kalākaua and Queen Liliʻuokalani. This will make you see Hawai as not just a tourist spot but home to islanders and their struggles and growth.
Snorkel at Hanauma Bay
If you are a water baby like me, this is going to be so peaceful and calming. I highly recommend to Snorkel if you are looking for things to do in Honolulu for first timers. Here, the marine life is well preserved in the volcanic crater, from coral reefs to hundreds of tropical fish species, you will be left speechless. If I could, I would go back to snorkeling every day. Make sure to visit this place early in the morning, while it is less crowded.
Walk the Makapuʻu Lighthouse Trail
For things to do in Honolulu for couples, take a romantic walk at the Makapuʻu Lighthouse Trail. On Oahu’s southeastern coastline, this 2-mile round-trip trail offers a retreat away from the bustle of the city. Deep blue Pacific Ocean, strong breeze, and uninterrupted views. This simple yet soulful walk will give you lasting memories.
Visit the Honolulu Museum of Art
Family things to do in Honolulu are incomplete without a visit to this Art Museum. A collection of over 50,000 works. From Asian, Korean to American and modern art pieces, you will enjoy not just art but the layout of open courtyards as well. I took my time at this museum, immersing myself in pure creativity. You can do this alone or with your partner if you both appreciate art, making it one of the things to do in Honolulu for couples.
Valley of the Temples
Continuing my cultural insight, I went to this rather less touristy place, at least for when I was there, not many people were in my sight. This was home to Byodo-In Temple, a replica of a 950-year-old Buddhist temple in Japan. The valley was built to honor Japanese immigrants and promote cultural harmony. Strikingly different from the urban energy of Honolulu. If you like to take a step back, maybe meditate and feel calm, then include this in your list of things to do in Honolulu for first-timers.
Scenic Drive to Oahu’s North Shore
Take a drive about an hour from Honolulu and get transported to this scenic place. A must-do for things to do in Honolulu for couples. The water is calm during the summer months, but if you love surfing and that is what brings you to hawaii then make sure to visit the North Shore in the wintertime. For an authentic local experience, this was a sweet change from Waikiki. You will find a bunch of fun things to do in honolulu hawaii here. From local fruit vendors to quiet beaches. This one really had me wanting to move to Hawai’i.
Take a Food Tour
With the food, the whole experience of fun things to do in honolulu hawai will be left Half-done. You can take a Hawaiian food tour by bike, as I did, or go solo. Tasting the local food, talking to local food vendors, understanding the flavours has to be the most unique and wholesome thing you can do. You can also add this to things to do in Honolulu for first-timers for a complete experience.
Adventures In Hawaii
Whether you are looking for things to do in Honolulu for first-timers or as things to do in Hawaii for a seasonal traveller. Adventures in Hawaii are unmissable.
You can go for Surfing in Waikiki and Maui. Parasailing in Waikiki again and tubing at Kauaʻi offered exclusively by Kauaʻi Backcountry Adventures. Not to forget hiking, volcanic adventure at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park andhelicopter tours at Kauai and Oahu.
I have my itinerary planned for my next visit during the winter months. I would love to see how the island changes during the winter. If you are also planning a winter trip to Hawaii, make sure to avoid the holiday season as it can get crowded, especially on New Year’s.
FAQ
1. What are fun things to do in honolulu hawaii?
Adventure sports like surfing, tubing, and parasailing are a must when it comes to Honolulu.
2. What things to do in Honolulu?
You must visit the Ala Moana Beach Park, Waikiki Beach, and the North Shore.
3. What fun things to do in Honolulu?
Enjoy Waikiki Nightlife & Sunset Walks, food tours, and Snorkeling at Hanauma Bay.
4. What is the best time to visit Honululu Hawai?
The best time to visit Honolulu is from April to June and September to October for pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and better hotel rates.
5. What things to eat in Honolulu?
In Honolulu, try poke bowls, loco moco, spam musubi, shave ice, fresh pineapple, and traditional Hawaiian plate lunches.
