Things to Do in Honolulu

Honolulu is the capital of the state of Hawaii. It is located on Oahu, the third-largest of the Hawaiian Islands. Honolulu is a popular tourist destination with miles of hotels and resorts. The weather is a near-perfect 75 to 85 degrees all year long, making it a terrific place to experience the many activities that keep vacationers occupied.

Pearl Harbor

Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor, Photo by Marcia Frost

A visit to Pearl Harbor, the most popular attraction in Hawaii, is a must on a trip to Honolulu. This dedication to the spot that started the United State's involvement in World War II includes tours of the USS Arizona Memorial after visitors see a film on the Pearl Harbor attack.

Pearl Harbor
1 Arizona Memorial Place
Honolulu, HI 96818
[phone]
pearlharboroahu.com/

Beaches

Waikiki Beach, Photo by Marcia Frost

Honolulu has miles of beautiful beaches. Waikiki is the location of many of the island's hotels, and the Beach Walk is a mecca for shopping and restaurants. Waikiki also has one of the more popular beaches for snorkeling, surfing and swimming. Sandy Beach, Halona Beach Cove, Kuhio Beach and Makapuu Beach Park are also popular Honolulu beaches.

Beaches in Honolulu
honolulu.worldweb.com/SightsAttractions/Beaches/index.html

Iolani Palace

Iolani Palace counts as the only official home of royalty that ever existed within the United States. Tour the restored apartments of King Kalakaua and Queen Liliuokalani to hear the story of the overthrow of this Hawaiian monarchy. The palace also has special events, such as concerts and Garden Parties.

Iolani Palace
364 South King Street
Honolulu, HI 96813
[phone]
iolanipalace.org

Chinatown

Honolulu's Chinatown is packed full of exotic things to do. Visit the Izumo Taishakyo Mission Shrine or Kuan Yin Temple or enjoy the art scene, which comes especially alive on the first Friday of every month. There's a wide range of food in the endless restaurants and markets. At night, the clubs in the area are hopping, offering a variety of entertainment.

Honolulu's Chinatown
chinatownhi.com/

Hanauma Bay Marine Preserve

Hanauma Bay, Photo by Marcia Frost

A visit to Hanauma Bay is a trip to a lot more than an incredible beach (though it is a great snorkeling spot). This nature preserve is dedicated to the marine life and safeguarding it. To this end, there is an educational center with displays and information that encourages the protection of living reefs.

Hanauma Bay Marine Preserve
[phone]
honolulu.gov/parks/facility/hanaumabay/index.htm

References

• Hawaii's Official Tourism Site-Quick Facts on Oahu
• Hawaii's Official Tourism Site-Oahu Neighborhoods