50 Awesome Things to Do in Honolulu, Hawaii (According to a Waikiki Resident!)
Visiting Oahu and looking for fun things to do near Waikiki? From waterfall hikes to craft cocktails, here’s your must-do list for Honolulu!
If you’re visiting Honolulu and looking for fun things to do nearby (or maybe something delicious to eat), you’ve come to the right place.
I’ve already shared some of my favorite places around the island of Oahu.
Read More: The Ultimate Oahu Bucket List: 50 Fun Things to See, Do & Eat🍍🌺🏖️
But not everyone visiting Oahu wants to spend hours driving around the island on their vacation (perhaps you’ve already noticed the traffic?).
Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you choose to book through these links, I receive a small commission, which I will likely blow on mai tais, poke, and shave ice. All of this internet voodoo takes place at no additional cost to you.
Sometimes you just want to stay close to the action. And that’s exactly what I’m covering today.
In this post, I’m drilling down on the very best things to do within the city limits of Honolulu. That’s actually a pretty large area, including everything from Salt Lake in the west to Hawaii Kai in the east, with plenty of amazing spots right here in the heart of Waikiki (where I live).
Whether you’re looking for a waterfall hike or a tropical craft cocktail, you’ll find it here.
The best part? If you’re staying in Waikiki, many of the places on my list are walkable, a short Uber ride away, or accessible by TheBus or trolley.
So if you’re visiting Oahu with limited time, or you’d rather skip renting a car, there are still plenty of fantastic things to see, do, and eat.
And yes, I said eat (that’s the best part!).
Because Honolulu isn’t just packed with great attractions. It’s also one of the best foodie destinations in the Pacific. From legendary shave ice and fresh poke to beachfront mai tais and some of the best Japanese food outside of Japan.
For ease of consumption, I’ve broken down my top 50 list into two parts: fun activities and delicious food and drink experiences.
Now, let’s dive in!
Fun Things to See & Do in Honolulu
1. Visit Pearl Harbor
A visit to the Pearl Harbor National Memorial is one of the most meaningful experiences in Hawaii. Many visitors to Hawaii stop in Honolulu for a day or two just to see Pearl Harbor.
The memorial honors the lives lost during the Pearl Harbor attack on December 7, 1941, and offers powerful exhibits that bring this pivotal moment in history to life.
Don’t miss the boat ride to the USS Arizona Memorial (which requires a reservation), where you can see the sunken battleship still resting beneath the water.
Read More: The 7 Absolute Best Things to Do on Oahu (if time is short!)
2. Hike Diamond Head Crater
Diamond Head is Honolulu’s most famous hike, and the sunrise views from the summit are unforgettable.
The short but steep trail climbs inside the crater of an ancient volcanic cone before rewarding hikers with sweeping views of Waikiki and the Pacific Ocean. Even if you don’t go for sunrise, I recommend a morning hike to avoid the heat.
And don’t forget, you need a reservation for this hike!
Read More: Diamond Head Crater is Oahu’s Most Iconic Hike (But You Need a Reservation!) ⛰️🌈
3. Explore the Bishop Museum
The Bishop Museum is the best place in Hawaii to learn about Hawaiian history and Polynesian culture. Its fascinating exhibits cover everything from ancient navigation and royal artifacts to volcanic science and native wildlife.
If you want to understand the deeper story of the islands, this is the place to start.
Read More: Oahu’s Bishop Museum is a Cultural Gem in the Heart of Honolulu🏛️
4. Visit Iolani Palace
Located in downtown Honolulu, Iolani Palace is the only royal palace in the United States. Once home to Hawaii’s last reigning monarchs, King Kalakaua and Queen Liliuokalani, the beautifully restored building offers a glimpse into the islands’ royal past.
Touring the palace provides an eye-opening look at Hawaii’s history before it became a U.S. territory.
Read More: Iolani Palace: Why America’s Only Royal Palace is a Must-See in Honolulu👑
5. Shop Til You Drop in Waikiki
Waikiki is one of the best shopping districts in Hawaii. You’ll find everything from luxury brands to local boutiques at places like International Market Place, Royal Hawaiian Center, and Ala Moana Shopping Center.
Even if you’re just window shopping, it’s a fun way to spend an afternoon.
6. Take a Sunset Catamaran Cruise
Few experiences capture the magic of Waikiki like a sunset cruise along the coast. Nightly sunset mai tai cruises depart directly from Waikiki Beach and glide past Diamond Head as the sky turns shades of orange and pink. Enjoy the ride with a mai tai while the sun dips below the horizon.
One of the best sunset cruises is Moana’s Sunset Cocktail Cruise.
7. Watch the Friday Night Fireworks
Every Friday night, the sky above Waikiki lights up with fireworks launched from the Hilton Hawaiian Village. It’s a free show that locals and visitors alike love to watch from the beach.
Grab a spot along Duke Kahanamoku Beach or Fort Derussy Beach Park just after sunset on Friday evening for the best view.
Read More: Waikiki’s Friday Night Fireworks (where to watch by land, sea, or air!)🎆
8. Hike to Manoa Falls
Just a short drive from Waikiki, the Manoa Falls Trail leads through a lush rainforest to a beautiful 150-foot waterfall. The trail is relatively easy and shaded by towering tropical trees.
It’s one of the best ways to experience Oahu’s jungle scenery without venturing far from Honolulu.
Read More: The Everything Guide to Manoa Falls: Oahu’s Jungle Waterfall Hike💦
9. Take a Scenic Helicopter Flight
If you want to see Oahu from a completely different perspective, a helicopter tour is hard to beat. Flights soar over Waikiki, Diamond Head, and the island’s dramatic mountain ridges and waterfalls. It’s an unforgettable way to appreciate the island’s natural beauty.
Tip: The Magnum Helicopter tour is one of Oahu’s best!
10. See the Halona Blowhole
Located along Oahu’s scenic southeastern coastline, the Halona Blowhole is a powerful ocean geyser created by lava tubes in the rock. When the surf is strong, water shoots high into the air through the opening.
The surrounding views of rugged cliffs and turquoise water are stunning. Don’t miss Halona Cove next door. It’s the famous beach featured in the movie, “From Here to Eternity.”
Read More: Why the Halona Blowhole is a Must-See on Oahu’s Loveliest Coast
11. Learn to Surf on Waikiki Beach
Waikiki is one of the best places in the world to learn how to surf. The waves here are gentle and rolling, which makes them ideal for beginners. Surfing lessons with a local instructor will have you standing up on your board in no time.
Tip: This 90-minute group surf lesson in Waikiki is a great introduction to the sport.
12. The Surfboard Walking Tour
This quirky self-guided tour leads you to a series of decorative surfboards placed throughout Waikiki. Each board celebrates a different aspect of Hawaiian culture or surfing history.
It’s a fun way to explore the neighborhood while learning something new. It’s also one of the best free things to do in Honolulu.
Read More: Hawaii On a Budget? Here Are 25 Awesome Free Things to Do on Oahu🌺
13. Visit the HOMA & Shangri La
The Honolulu Museum of Art (HOMA) is home to an impressive collection spanning Asian, European, and Hawaiian works. And while I love art, the real reason I visited this Honolulu museum was the opportunity to see the famous home of Doris Duke, Shangri La.
Once home to the famous heiress, this stunning oceanfront estate is now the Shangri La Museum of Islamic Art. The estate showcases Doris Duke’s incredible collection of Islamic art collected during her travels. It’s only possible to visit the estate via a pre-booked shuttle from HOMA.
Together, HOMA and Shagri La make a fascinating cultural outing in Honolulu.
Read More: From the Taj Mahal to Oahu: How to Visit Doris Duke’s Spectacular Shangri La
14. Visit the Pali Lookout
The Nuʻuanu Pali Lookout offers one of the most dramatic viewpoints on Oahu. From this windswept cliff, you’ll look out over the lush windward coast and towering green mountains. It’s also the historic site of a major battle in Hawaiian history.
Read More: Haunted Hawaiian Legends Meet Epic Views at Oahu’s Nu’uanu Pali Lookout
15. Stroll the Foster Botanical Garden
Tucked away in downtown Honolulu, Foster Botanical Garden is a peaceful oasis filled with towering tropical trees and rare plants. The gardens date back to the mid-1800s and feature beautiful walking paths and historic specimens.
It’s a quiet escape from the city’s busy streets and a great place to learn about Hawaiian flowers.
Read More: A Visitor’s Guide to Hawaiian Flowers (What to Look for & Where to See Them!)🌸
16. Spot a Turtle and a Monk Seal
Wildlife sightings happen surprisingly often in Waikiki. One of my favorite spots is the jetty near Steak Shack, where Hawaiian green sea turtles frequently surface in the water. Take a stroll down the jetty and keep an eye out on both sides of the water, chances are you’ll spot a turtle.
If you’re lucky, you might even see a Hawaiian monk seal lounging on the beach next to the jetty (like the one in this photo!).
17. Wander the KCC Farmers Market
Held Saturday mornings near Diamond Head, the KCC Farmers Market is a favorite with both locals and visitors. Vendors sell fresh produce, tropical fruit, baked goods, and plenty of local specialties. Arrive early because the best treats tend to sell out quickly.
Read More: Eat, Drink, & Shop Local at Oahu’s Weekly KCC Farmers’ Market 🚜🍍🍅
18. Snorkel at Hanauma Bay
Hanauma Bay is one of the most famous snorkeling spots in Hawaii. The protected marine reserve is home to colorful tropical fish and coral reefs just offshore.
It’s an easy place for beginners to experience Hawaii’s underwater world. This is another Honolulu must-do that requires a reservation.
Read More: The Foolproof Guide to Oahu’s Hanauma Bay for Snorkeling 🤿
19. Catch a Festival in Waikiki
Waikiki hosts festivals year-round, celebrating Hawaiian culture, music, and food. Events like the Waikiki Spam Jam, Honolulu Festival, and Lei Day bring Kalakaua Avenue to life with performances and local vendors. If your visit lines up with one, don’t miss it.
Read More: 15 Fabulous Festivals Found Only in Hawaii (Yes, #3 is a real thing) 🤙🌺
20. Visit the Waikiki Aquarium
The Waikiki Aquarium sits right on the shoreline at the edge of Waikiki Beach. Inside, you’ll find exhibits featuring coral reefs, tropical fish, and native Hawaiian marine life.
It’s small but beautifully curated. The majority of the exhibits are indoors, so if you catch a rainy day during your visit, it’ll keep the kiddos busy for an hour or two.
21. Winter Whale Watching
Between December and April, humpback whales migrate through Hawaiian waters. Boat tours departing from Honolulu offer a chance to see these incredible animals breaching and splashing just offshore. It’s one of the most exciting seasonal experiences in Hawaii.
Tip: This 2-Hour Whale Watching Trip from Honolulu is a great way to get out on the water and look for whales during the winter months.
22. Visit Punchbowl
The National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, located inside an extinct volcanic crater, is one of the most peaceful places in Honolulu.
The memorial honors American service members who fought in the Pacific. It’s a serene place to visit, and the views overlooking the city are also spectacular.
Read More: Take Time to Pause and Reflect at Oahu’s Serene Punchbowl Cemetery
23. See the View at Tantalus Lookout
Tantalus Lookout is one of the best places in Honolulu to watch the sunset over the city. From the top, you’ll see Waikiki’s skyline, Diamond Head, and the coastline stretching into the distance. It’s especially beautiful at dusk when the lights begin to sparkle.
Read More: With Panoramic Views Over Honolulu, the Tantalus Lookout is an Oahu Must See!
24. Hike the Koko Head Crater
The Koko Head Stairs climb more than 1,000 steps up the side of an old railway track. It’s a challenging workout, but the panoramic views from the summit are worth it.
This is not one of Oahu’s easy hikes, and it’s definitely not a good one for kids. But if you’re looking for a great workout with spectacular views, you’ll love this hike.
Go early before the sun gets too intense. Like Diamond Head, this is a popular sunrise hike.
Read More: Koko Head Hike: Oahu’s Grueling Stairmaster to Heaven
25. Visit the Honolulu Zoo
Located right at the edge of Waikiki, the Honolulu Zoo is home to animals from around the world. The spacious grounds feature everything from giraffes and lions to native Hawaiian birds. It’s a fun stop for families visiting Waikiki and the only place to see Hawaii’s state bird (the Nene) on Oahu.
Now, let’s switch to my favorite subject…food!
And more importantly, drinks.
Delicious Things to Eat & Drink in Honolulu
26. Malasadas at Leonard’s Bakery
Leonard’s Bakery has been serving its famous malasadas since 1952. These Portuguese-style donuts are fried until golden and rolled in sugar, creating a warm, fluffy treat. They’re made to order and served fresh from the fryer.
Malasadas from Leonard’s are my favorite sweet treat on Oahu and a must-try in Honolulu!
Read More: Why You Need Malasadas in Hawaii (& Where to Find Them)
27. Dinner at Duke’s
Dedicated to the father of modern surfing, Duke’s Waikiki is one of the most iconic beachfront restaurants in Hawaii. Live music, ocean views, and classic island dishes make it a favorite for visitors and locals alike.
Come for the mai tais, stay for the Hula Pie.
28. Mai Tai at the Royal Hawaiian
Sipping a mai tai at the Mai Tai Bar at the legendary Royal Hawaiian Hotel is a classic Waikiki experience. The legendary “Pink Palace of the Pacific” has one of the most beautiful beachfront settings in Honolulu.
It’s the home of the Hawaiian version of the Mai Tai and the perfect spot to relax with Hawaii’s iconic tropical cocktail and watch the waves.
29. Breakfast at Aloha Kitchen
Aloha Kitchen is one of the best spots for breakfast in Waikiki. The fluffy soufflé pancakes and hearty loco moco are especially popular. Expect a line in the morning, but it moves quickly.
This is my favorite place for breakfast in Waikiki (it helps that it’s in my neighborhood!).
Read More: 7 Best Breakfast Spots in Waikiki (according to a local!)
30. Acai Bowl at Island Vintage
Island Vintage Coffee is famous for its beautifully crafted acai bowls. Loaded with fresh fruit, granola, and honey, they’re the perfect tropical breakfast. The Royal Hawaiian Center location often has a line, but it’s worth the wait.
My favorite bowl here is the Lilikoi Moana Acai Bowl.
31. Steak Plate at Steak Shack
Steak Shack is a hidden gem right on Waikiki Beach. Their garlic steak plates are simple, affordable, and incredibly flavorful.
Grab one to go and enjoy it with your toes in the sand or at the nearby picnic tables overlooking the ocean.
32. Ice Cream at Lappert’s
Lappert’s is known for its rich, locally inspired ice cream flavors. You’ll find tropical ingredients like macadamia nuts, coconut, and Kona coffee. My top pick here is the “Nene Tracks.”
It’s the best ice cream in Hawaii and a sweet treat after a day at the beach.
Read More: Oahu’s Sweet 16: From Waikiki to the North Shore, Don’t Miss These Hawaiian Treats 🍧🍦🍩
33. Loco Moco at Liliha Bakery
Liliha Bakery’s famous loco moco is Hawaiian comfort food at its finest. The dish layers rice, a hamburger patty, fried egg, and rich gravy into one delicious plate. It’s a local favorite for a reason.
And while Liliha’s popularity means you’ll find several locations around the island, the loco moco at the original location (515 N Kuakini Street) just tastes better.
Come for the loco moco, but don’t leave without a box of Coco Puffs.
34. Cocktails at Bar Leather Apron
Bar Leather Apron is one of Honolulu’s most acclaimed cocktail bars. The drinks are beautifully crafted with premium spirits and creative flavors. It’s an intimate spot perfect for a sophisticated night out.
It’s tiny, so I recommend making a reservation. Especially if you want to secure one of the coveted bar seats to watch the highly-trained mixologists at work.
35. Shave Ice at Lahaina Shave Ice
No trip to Hawaii is complete without shave ice. Conveniently located right next to Steak Shack on Waikiki Beach, Lahaina Shave Ice piles fluffy ice high and tops it with colorful tropical syrups.
Add condensed milk or ice cream for the full experience.
36. Find the Green Lady Speakeasy
The Green Lady Cocktail Room is one of Waikiki’s most intriguing hidden bars. Tucked behind an unassuming entrance, this tiny speakeasy serves creative cocktails in a stylish, tiki setting.
Finding it is half the fun.
Hint: Check the White Sands Hotel and ask for Room 8 at the front desk.
Read More: These 7 Waikiki Boutique Hotels Are So Chic You’ll Forget You Saved a Fortune
37. Afternoon Tea at The Veranda
Afternoon tea at the historic Moana Surfrider Hotel is a timeless Waikiki tradition. Served on the veranda overlooking the ocean, the experience includes delicate pastries, finger sandwiches, and fine tea.
Yes, it’s a little pricey. But it feels like a wonderfully old-school Hawaiian experience.
38. Dinner at 53 By the Sea
When it comes to fine dining in Honolulu, 53 By the Sea is my favorite spot. With one of the most spectacular dining room views in Honolulu, it’s where we go for special occasions.
The elegant restaurant sits right on the waterfront with Diamond Head in the background. It’s a perfect choice for a special evening and one of my favorite restaurants in Waikiki.
Read More: From Casual Date Nights to Special Occasions, Here Are My 10 Favorite Restaurants on Oahu
39. Mai Tai at Monkeypod Kitchen
Monkeypod Kitchen is famous for its signature mai tai topped with honey-lilikoi foam. The delicious cocktail is one of the best in Hawaii, and I also consider it the best Mai Tai in Waikiki. Pair it with a hand-tossed pizza or fresh fish tacos.
Read More: The 5 Best Mai Tais in Waikiki (Do NOT Leave Hawaii Without Trying #3)
40. Udon at Marugame Udon
Marugame Udon is legendary for its handmade noodles and affordable prices. The cafeteria-style setup lets you pick your bowl and add tasty tempura on the side. A glass panel lets you watch your udon noodles being made by hand.
A line forms here every evening, but it moves quickly.
41. Happy Hour at Signature Prime
Located high above the city, Signature Prime Steak & Seafood offers incredible panoramic views. Their happy hour is one of the best deals in Honolulu. Watching the sunset from here is a treat.
Happy Hour starts promptly at 4:30pm. But get there early, there’s always a line for the best happy hour in Waikiki.
Read More: The 5 Best Happy Hours in Waikiki for Deals with a View 🍸
42. Craft Cocktails at Lava Lounge
Located inside Waikiki’s The Twin Fin Hotel, Lava Lounge is a tiny, unmarked bar known for its creative craft cocktails. The drinks are bold, inventive, and beautifully presented. Pictured here are the Finding Dory and the Purple Monarch (I’ll let you guess which is which!).
They open at 5pm every night, but don’t show up then unless you’ve booked their Mai Tai Class, which takes place daily from 5pm-6pm.
With just 12 seats, I recommend making a reservation, just to be safe. It’s a great spot for a pre-dinner or late-night drink in Waikiki.
43. Spam Musubi at Musubi Cafe
Spam musubi is one of Hawaii’s most beloved snacks. At Musubi Cafe Iyasume you’ll find dozens of creative versions of this rice-and-spam classic. It’s the perfect grab-and-go bite and you’ll find locations all over Waikiki and Honolulu.
44. Kalua Pig Plate at Highway Inn
Highway Inn has been serving traditional Hawaiian cuisine for decades. Their kalua pig plate is smoky, tender, and deeply flavorful. It’s one of the best places in Honolulu to try authentic Hawaiian food.
45. Attend a Traditional Luau
A luau combines Hawaiian food, music, and dance into one unforgettable evening. Expect dishes like kalua pig, poi, and fresh seafood alongside fantastic hula performances. It’s a great way to experience Hawaiian culture and enjoy a terrific meal at the same time.
I’ll be honest, my favorite luaus on Oahu – Germaine’s Luau, the Toa Luau, and the Mauka Warriors Luau – are pretty far outside Honolulu.
But there are a few good options in Waikiki, like the Paina Waikiki Luau at Waikiki Beach Marriott and the Na Lei Aloha Luau: A Boutique Luau in Waikiki.
46. Fresh Poke at Mama Kim’s
You probably wouldn’t stumble across Mama Kim’s on your own. Most visitors to Honolulu don’t.
This casual poke bar is located in a small, easy-to-miss building off King Street in Honolulu. But locals know that Mama Kim’s is the place to go for affordable, incredibly fresh poke bowls.
Choose from a variety of fish and flavorful toppings. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that will keep you coming back.
47. Taro Donuts at Holey Grail
Holey Grail makes delicious Hawaiian-grown taro donuts cooked in Fera fruit oil, a unique palm fruit rich in healthy fats and antioxidants. The result is a light, flavorful treat topped with a rotating menu of island-inspired glazes.
The donuts are handmade and made-to-order, so expect to wait a few minutes for your order.
I first discovered Holey Grail on Kauai, and it was love at first bite. Thank goodness I later discovered that their flagship store is right here in Honolulu, just a mile from my house.
48. Hawaiian Hot Dog at Hula Dog
This popular Waikiki food truck serves Hawaiian hot dogs, a tropical twist on the classic dog. The sausages are grilled and tucked inside sweet bread with tropical relishes and sauces. It’s fun, messy, and delicious. Pair it with a lilikoi lemonade, and it’s one of the best cheap eats in Waikiki.
Read More: The 10 Best Cheap Eats in Waikiki (#1 is a beachfront gem!)
49. Mai Tai at La Mariana Sailing Club
La Mariana Sailing Club feels like stepping into old Hawaii. Fans of the Magnum P.I. reboot will want to check out this vintage Hawaiian tiki bar.
The inspiration for the bar in the series (run by Magnum’s pal Orville “Rick” Wright), this popular Oahu establishment has been serving delicious tiki drinks since 1957.
The mai tai is legendary, but the pupus (appetizers) are also terrific.
50. Off the Beaten Path Food Tour
Food tours are a great way to dive deeper into a city’s food scene. If you want to sample Honolulu’s diverse food scene, my favorite Honolulu food tour is the Off the Beaten Path Food Tour.
You’ll wander the city’s markets sampling everything from fresh poke and malasadas to local specialties you might not discover on your own. It’s one of the best ways to explore the city through food.
What’s on your Honolulu must-do list?
One of the things I love most about living in Waikiki is that there are so many fun activities and delicious food options within a compact radius.
Within just a few miles, you can hike an ancient volcanic crater, visit a royal palace, snorkel with tropical fish, sip a sunset mai tai, and end the evening with shave ice on the beach. Not many cities in the world can offer that kind of variety in such a small area.
If it’s your first time visiting Honolulu, start with a few of the iconic experiences like Diamond Head, Pearl Harbor, and Waikiki Beach. Then mix in some of the local food spots and hidden gems that make this city such a fun place to explore.
If you have enough time on your Oahu vacation, get out and explore more of this beautiful island (there is SO much to see!).
But if you’d rather stay close to Waikiki, you’ll quickly discover that Honolulu has more than enough to keep you busy.
And if you do decide to venture outside Honolulu, here are a few more awesome things to do:
15 Can’t-Miss Stops on a Day Trip to the Iconic North Shore of Oahu🤙🏄♂️
The 3 Best Tours at Kualoa Ranch (from an Oahu local who’s done them all!)
Escape the Oahu Crowds with a Visit to the Byodo-In Temple
How to Plan an Awesome Day Trip from Oahu to the Charming Island of Lanai✈️🐈🏖️
