10 Fun Ways to Enjoy a Day in Honolulu

If you’re considering a Dinogo cruise to Hawaii, it’s likely that you’ll find yourself in Honolulu, located on the stunning island of Oahu. With its idyllic scenery, sandy beaches, exceptional dining, and rich historical sites, it's no wonder this capital city is among the world's top vacation hotspots. Make sure to explore this Pacific gem. Here are 10 enjoyable ways to spend a day in Honolulu.

1. Explore Pearl Harbor

Few historical sites resonate with Americans like Pearl Harbor in Honolulu. On that fateful day, 1,177 crew members of the USS Arizona lost their lives due to the attack by the Imperial Japanese Navy Air Service. Honor these brave souls at their memorial site aboard a Navy shuttle boat at Pearl Harbor. After your visit, take a scenic drive to Punchbowl Crater, home to the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific.

2. Explore Diamond Head

Honolulu’s Diamond Head Volcano, named for the glittering calcite crystals found in its lava rocks, is a favorite destination for both locals and visitors. The steep 0.8-mile hike to the summit offers multiple spots to pause and capture beautiful photos along the way.

During your hike, you’ll navigate steep staircases, traverse a lighted tunnel over 200 feet long, and finally reach the Fire Control Station, built at the summit in 1911. The breathtaking views of the mountains, ocean, and beaches make the trek absolutely worthwhile!

3. Unwind at Waikiki Beach

For many travelers, a getaway is all about soaking up the sun, and few beaches can compare to Waikiki Beach. Celebrated as the birthplace of surfing, Waikiki Beach stretches for two miles, ensuring you’ll find the perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and more.

You can rent a variety of boogie boards, surfboards, and stand-up paddleboards to enhance your beach experience. Additionally, numerous excellent restaurants and shops are just a short stroll away.

4. Explore the Polynesian Cultural Center

If you’re eager to delve into the rich heritage of ancient Pacific Island culture, there’s no better destination than the Polynesian Cultural Center, located just 32 miles north of Honolulu in Laie, Hawaii.

Highlights include seven authentic villages, mouthwatering island cuisine, and a variety of engaging demonstrations such as fire-making, Tongan drumming, coconut tree climbing, and traditional dances.

5. Discover Oahu’s North Shore

Few locations in Hawaii are as stunning as Oahu’s North Shore. A motor coach tour of this region features a journey through the Valley of the Temples and a stop at Byodo Temple, beautifully situated at the base of the Koolau Mountains.

Heading north to Kahuku, a stop at a local shrimp truck guarantees a tasty lunch, along with Hawaiian-style shaved ice for dessert. Other delightful sights along the route include Sunset Beach, Waimea Valley, Turtle Beach, the historic town of Haleiwa, and the famous Dole Pineapple Plantation.

6. Experience a Jeep Ride Through Jurassic Valley

While the Kualoa Ranch Private Nature Reserve offers a variety of activities, the raptor tour stands out as one of the most thrilling. With stunning ocean views and rugged mountain trails, there’s never a dull moment on this excursion.

For cinema enthusiasts, the picturesque Ka’a’awa Valley may seem recognizable, having served as the backdrop for several movies throughout the years.

7. Dive into the Ocean Depths with a Submarine

Picture yourself exploring the ocean from 100 feet beneath the surface. If you're spending a day in Honolulu, Hawaii, you can embark on a journey aboard an Atlantis passenger submarine. After a brief 15-minute boat ride, you'll board the sub, which boasts a spacious, air-conditioned interior complete with large viewing windows.

During this unique underwater adventure, you'll encounter a variety of marine life, a shipwreck, and a submerged airplane.

8. Enjoy a City Bus Tour

If you want to familiarize yourself with Honolulu in no time, join a bus tour of the city. With numerous significant landmarks along the way, it's an ideal activity for history enthusiasts.

Notable attractions include the stunning Iolani Palace, the official residence of Hawaii’s monarchs, and the iconic King Kamehameha statue.

Additional highlights consist of Honolulu City Hall, the state capitol building, and the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific located at Punchbowl Crater. You’ll also pass through vibrant Chinatown and view the Hawaiian Mission Houses, where Hawaii’s first Christian missionaries lived.

By the end of the tour, you’ll be amazed at the wealth of knowledge you’ve gained.

9. Explore Sea Life Park

Located just 18 miles east of Honolulu, Sea Life Park serves as a marine animal park and bird sanctuary. With seating in the open-air theater, you’ll enjoy watching dolphins perform tricks while soaking in stunning views of the Hawaiian coastline. For even more excitement at Sea Life Park, you can:

• Enjoy a sea lion performance
• Meet penguins and sea turtles
• Swim with dolphins or sea lions
• Get up close with sharks and rays

The park also features a variety of dining options, and you can find souvenirs at one of five delightful gift shops.

10. Experience an Authentic Hawaiian Luau

Among all the activities in Honolulu, nothing compares to a beach luau at sunset. At this traditional Hawaiian celebration, you’ll savor a buffet-style dinner featuring genuine island specialties like poi, Kalua pig, and poke.

For added enjoyment under the stars, you’ll witness a torch-lighting ceremony, listen to traditional Hawaiian melodies, and watch thrilling Samoan Fire Knife Dancers. By the end, you’ll leave with cherished memories and a lovely Hawaiian seashell lei.

If a Hawaiian cruise is on your agenda, you might be departing from or arriving at this stunning island capital. To ensure a delightful beginning or conclusion to your vacation, be sure to take some time to discover the city of Honolulu and its beautiful surroundings.