Waikiki delivers all the Hawaiian dream ingredients without making you work for them. Surfers catch waves alongside floating first-timers while Diamond Head looms in the background like nature's perfect postcard prop. The bustling beach scene transitions seamlessly into shopping at Royal Hawaiian Centre and people-watching along Kalakaua Avenue, where island rhythms spill from open-air venues. Hotels range from glitzy high-rises to charming boutiques, with most offering spectacular ocean views. The area is wonderfully walkable, with endless dining options serving everything from poke bowls to sunset cocktails. Getting around is easy with frequent buses to city centre Honolulu, though the best of Waikiki sits right at your flip-flopped feet.
City centre Honolulu blends business buzz with rich history in Hawaii's dynamic capital. The iconic Iolani Palace stands as the only royal palace on US soil, while nearby Chinatown bursts with cultural energy, herb shops, and authentic Asian cuisine. Beaches border the district, and the harborfront offers scenic views perfect for afternoon strolls between museum visits and shopping stops. Finding a bite to eat is an adventure through global flavours, from quick plate lunches to upscale dining. Most visitors stay in nearby Waikiki and make day trips city centre, using the convenient bus system or walking the flat, navigable streets. Evenings quiet down as government buildings and businesses close, revealing a peaceful side to this urban core.
Ala Moana combines shopping paradise with oceanfront bliss in the heart of Honolulu. The massive open-air Ala Moana Centre buzzes with hundreds of stores, restaurants, and cultural performances under tropical breezes. Just steps away, Ala Moana Beach Park offers golden sands and a protected swimming lagoon at Magic Island. The waterfront promenade becomes a sunset-watcher's dream as day turns to evening. Accommodation range from upscale hotels to holiday condos, all with easy beach access. TheBus connects visitors to Waikiki and city centre, while the neighborhood's high walkability means you can ditch the car. For authentic local flavours, venture beyond the mall to discover nearby eateries serving everything from steaming pho to traditional Hawaiian plate lunches.
Diamond Head - Kapahulu - St. Louis delivers Honolulu's greatest hits without the tourist crowds. Hike the iconic volcanic crater for jaw-dropping ocean panoramas or lounge on peaceful Kaimana Beach where the locals swim. The area borders Kapiolani Park with its sprawling lawns and majestic banyan trees, while Kapahulu Avenue serves up authentic Hawaiian plate lunches and perfect shave ice. Find your home away from home in holiday rentals nestled among residential streets lined with tropical gardens. Getting around requires some planning with limited bus routes, but ride-sharing services are readily available. The peaceful area vibe means early evenings and quiet mornings – exactly what you need after a day conquering Diamond Head's summit trail.
Kaimuki serves up a perfect slice of authentic Honolulu life away from the tourist rush. The main strip on Waialae Avenue buzzes with artisan coffee shops, family-run plate lunch spots, and farm-to-table bistros dishing out innovative Hawaiian fusion cuisine. Diamond Head State Monument and the popular Kapi'olani Community College Farmers' Market are just minutes away. Colourful murals and vintage shopfronts create an Instagram-worthy backdrop for your explorations. Dining options range from $8 local plates to $40 chef-driven dinners, with most spots open from morning until 9pm. The area offers charming holiday rentals and boutique B&Bs instead of big hotels. Getting around is easy on foot along the compact main strip, though you might want a car for beach trips to nearby Kahala.
Whether you want to hunt for sand dollars or smell the fresh air, Waikiki Beach is one of the most popular seaside spots located 3.2 mi (5.1 km) from central Honolulu. Enjoy the sunset by the shore at Kuhio Beach, Sans Souci Beach, and Queens Beach, all 3 within a short walk.
If you want to give your credit card some exercise, head out to Ala Moana Center, a popular place for shoppers in Ala Moana. Hotels.com travellers also say the area is full of friendly people and that it has lots of nice beaches. It's also full of great shops and restaurants, so you can spend the afternoon having a wander. Splash some more cash at Ward Village Shops and Kaka‘ako Farmers’ Market.
Explore the great outdoors at Pearl Harbor, a popular spot to commune with nature in Western Honolulu. Stroll along the area's waterfront or simply savour its top-notch restaurants.
You can browse for souvenirs with a trip to Royal Hawaiian Center, a favourite shopping spot in Honolulu. Stroll along the seaside or discover the area's beautiful sunsets.
You can browse for souvenirs with a trip to International Market Place, a favourite shopping spot in Honolulu. Wander the beautiful beaches or discover the area's beautiful sunsets.
Soak up the sun on Waikiki Beach, then hike to Diamond Head's summit for breathtaking views. Pearl Harbor's USS Arizona Memorial and Iolani Palace offer glimpses into Hawaii's complex history.
Honolulu is a tropical locale known for its beaches, monuments and port. Simply book a local tour to enjoy your stay a little more. Travellers seeking the perfect souvenir may want to head to Ala Moana Center and Waikiki Beach Walk. Waikiki Beach and Honolulu Harbor are other popular sights to visit.
