Top Ten Things to Do When Visiting Honolulu for the First Time

Visiting Honolulu for the first time will certainly be an exciting experience filled with breathtaking scenery, rich culture, and memorable activities. As the capital of Hawaii, Honolulu offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and urban excitement. Visitors are often captivated by the iconic Waikiki Beach, where turquoise waters meet soft, golden sands, providing a perfect setting for surfing, sunbathing, or simply relaxing.

A must-see attraction is Diamond Head State Monument; hiking to the summit rewards you with panoramic views of Honolulu and the Pacific Ocean. History enthusiasts should visit Pearl Harbor to see the USS Arizona Memorial and learn about the pivotal events of World War II. For a taste of Hawaiian culture, attending a traditional luau offers authentic performances, music, and local cuisine. Nature lovers will enjoy exploring the lush trails to Manoa Falls or snorkeling at Hanauma Bay, home to vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish.

Shopping and dining along Kalakaua Avenue showcase the city’s vibrant energy, while evening cruises or helicopter tours provide stunning aerial perspectives of the island’s landscapes. Don’t forget to indulge in local flavors like poke bowls, shaved ice, and fresh tropical fruits. Overall, Honolulu offers a perfect blend of adventure, history, and relaxation, making it an ideal destination for first-time visitors eager to experience the true spirit of Hawaii.

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1. Snorkel With the Sea Turtles in Oahu’s Turtle Canyon

One of the most exciting things about Hawaii is its marine life, and if you come away from a visit to our nation’s 50th state without experiencing some of that, then you’ve really missed out. Among the most beloved of Hawaii’s marine animals are its green sea turtles, and on Oahu you can snorkel with them in Turtle Canyon, a nature reserve about a mile and a half off the coast from Waikiki Beach. Several tour operators offer excursions out to Turtle Canyon by boat, and while there you can experience not only the majestic sea turtles, but beautiful coral reefs and vibrant tropical fish as well.

2. Hike to the Top of Diamond Head

Feeling adventurous? A hike to the top of Diamond Head is a favorite among many visitors to Oahu. The crater of this extinct volcano was formed from a single explosion about 300,000 years ago, and is today a national landmark and popular tourist destination. The trail to the top of Diamond Head starts out as a paved concrete path, but does have sections of more rugged terrain as you move towards the top. When you get there, though, the views are amazing, and even waiting a bit for that perfect photo op is worth it. A few things to note – because of Diamond Head’s popularity as a must-visit spot it’ll be crowded, especially at peak times. Also, advance reservations (and payment) are required for non-residents for both entry and parking. Total hike time for this 1.8-mile round-trip hike is about 1.5 to 2 hours.

3. Immerse Yourself In Hawaiian Culture at a Luau

A luau is a fantastic way to dive into Hawaiian culture, and it’s not difficult to find one when you visit Honolulu. This traditional feast is full of delicious food, music, and dance. You’ll get to experience the warm hospitality of the islands while you enjoy local dishes like poi, kalua pig, and haupia. Live Hawaiian music sets the mood, with ukulele, guitar, and hula dancers adding to the fun. Dancers tell stories through movement, connecting you to the island’s history. Luaus also often encourage audience participation: you can learn a hula dance or even try your hand at lei-making as part of the luau experience. Whichever luau you choose, you’ll be happy you added this authentic Hawaiian celebration to your visit to the island.

4. Sunbathe and Swim at the World-Famous Waikiki Beach

No visit to Honolulu would be complete without a day spent sunbathing and swimming at the famous Waikiki Beach. The options are limitless at this iconic location – book a surf lesson or canoe ride, rent an umbrella and lounge from one of the bordering hotels, have lunch on the patio at Duke’s, enjoy a beautiful sunset right there on the sand – and that just scratches the surface. Because many of the hotels in Honolulu are located close to Waikiki, you’ll likely have plenty of opportunities to enjoy the popular spot, and it’s one you don’t want to miss!

5. Visit the Pearl Harbor USS Arizona Memorial

Visiting the USS Arizona Memorial in Pearl Harbor is a moving experience that offers a poignant reminder of history and sacrifice. Located over the sunken battleship USS Arizona, which was destroyed during the attack on December 7, 1941, the memorial is accessible via a short boat ride from the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. As you approach the memorial, you are struck by its simple yet powerful design, which spans the sunken hull and provides a space for reflection. Walking across the memorial, you can read the names of the 1,177 crew members who lost their lives aboard the Arizona, feeling a deep sense of respect and solemnity. The memorial also features a wall of honor and a museum that displays artifacts, photographs, and exhibits about the attack and its significance in American history. It’s an essential visit for anyone interested in history, patriotism, and remembrance.

6. Parasail Above the Scenic Coast of Oahu

If floating through the air at eight to ten stories high doesn’t make your stomach drop or give you hives, then you’ll definitely want to book a parasailing trip while you’re in Honolulu. There’s a special quiet you experience when you’re that high in the sky with just your parachute, and the views are incredible. It’s a fantastic way to see parts of the island you’d never otherwise see, and a memory that you’ll carry with you for a lifetime. The excursion will set you back $75 to $100, depending on how high you want to go, and how long you want to stay out, but the cost is worth it.

7. Take a Sunset Sail or Dinner Cruise

What better way to take in the beauty of Honolulu than with a sunset dinner cruise? Combining stunning views of Diamond Head and the Waikiki skyline along with luxurious relaxation, a sunset dinner cruise in Honolulu offers an unforgettable experience. The cruises typically feature gourmet gourmet dining with fresh local seafood, tropical fruits, and delicious desserts, paired with live Hawaiian music and entertainment. The warm ocean breeze and vibrant colors of the sunset create a magical atmosphere perfect for romantic evenings or memorable moments with friends and family. It’s a serene way to enjoy Honolulu’s natural beauty and vibrant culture from the comfort of a cruise ship.

8. Enjoy the Natural Beauty of the Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve

Located about 30 minutes from Honolulu, the Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is a must-see destination for snorkelers and beach lovers. Formed within a volcanic cone, the preserve is a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and observing marine life. Renowned for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs, the bay provides a perfect habitat for diverse marine life. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling among colorful fish, sea turtles, and other marine creatures in a protected environment. The scenic beauty of the crescent-shaped bay, surrounded by lush mountains, adds to its allure. The preserve is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, and advance reservations (and payment) are required, so you’ll want to plan ahead for this one.

9. Visit the Only Royal Palace in the United States

Iolani Palace in Honolulu is a historic landmark and the only royal palace on U.S. soil, serving as the former residence of Hawaiian monarchy. Built in 1882, it showcases unique American Florentine architecture with its grand courtyards, intricate ironwork, and opulent interiors. The palace symbolizes Hawaii’s rich history and sovereignty, having been the site of significant events, including the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom. Today, Iolani Palace functions as a museum, offering guided tours that highlight its regal past, stunning architecture, and cultural significance. It stands as a proud reminder of Hawaii’s royal heritage and resilience.

10. Hop on an All-Day Bus Tour Around the Island

Taking an all-day bus tour around the island of Oahu is a fantastic way to sit back and relax while taking in some of the island’s most popular and scenic sights like Pearl Harbor, Dole Plantation, Kualoa Ranch, Hanauma Bay, and Diamond Head. You can enjoy panoramic views from scenic lookouts, learn about Hawaiian culture at historic landmarks, and visit popular spots like Waimea Bay and the North Shore. There are many different tour options available, so whether your interests include shopping and dining out, or scenic vistas and nature experiences, you’re sure to find one that meets your needs perfectly. The best part is that you don’t have to worry about doing the driving, and can focus instead on soaking in the island experience.