15 top activities to enjoy in Honolulu, Hawaii

What makes O'ahu unique compared to other Hawaiian islands? It’s Honolulu, the only island with a true city vibe, featuring skyscrapers, a plethora of fine dining spots, and ample shopping options to fill your entire vacation. This means you’ll always have something to do. Plan for a full week to fully experience the city without rushing. While the iconic beaches are a must-see, there are countless other ways to savor Oahu's capital when you need a break from sunbathing. So grab your rental car—it’s essential for getting around—and start discovering Honolulu’s highlights, including Pearl Harbor, the hike up Diamond Head, and relaxing on Waikiki Beach.

1. Enjoy a picturesque hike

Rise early to tackle the Diamond Head hike before the crowds and heat arrive. The Diamond Head Crater Summit Trail is among Honolulu's top attractions, known for being surprisingly accessible even in athletic footwear. While some sections are steep, the panoramic views of Honolulu, Waikiki, and Hawaii Kai make the effort worthwhile. Remember to pack a hat, sunscreen, a fully charged phone, and plenty of water, as there is no shade along the trail.

2. Savor local cuisine and embrace the aloha spirit

If you’re in town during the fall, food lovers won’t want to miss the Hawaii Food & Wine Festival. This event showcases up-and-coming chefs from Honolulu, Michelin-starred talents, and renowned bartenders from Oahu and beyond, all while indulging in fresh, locally sourced dishes. This year's theme, “Taste Our Love for the Land,” emphasizes the importance of caring for the island and its natural resources. Engage in volunteer opportunities organized by local chefs through the Malama ‘Aina Program to deepen your understanding of island culture. Note: Events this year will take place outdoors in small groups.

3. Make a difference while on vacation 

Help preserve Oahu's beauty by volunteering with Malama Hawaii, a program that invites travelers to engage with island culture and contribute in ways beyond typical tourism. Many hotels, including the Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa in Honolulu, participate in this statewide initiative. Guests can learn about cultivating taro, a vital cultural crop, or assist in repairing traditional thatched homes in return for discounts. Beyond Honolulu, Malama Hawaii offers activities such as a helicopter tour with Paradise Helicopters, featuring a private landing and an opportunity to plant a native tree while discovering how to rejuvenate the land. Guests at Outrigger Hotels & Resorts can join a two-hour eco-adventure at Kualoa Ranch Private Nature Reserve, a 4000-acre site famous for its appearances in Jurassic Park, Jumanji, and Godzilla. In small groups, you’ll learn about the significance of upland ahupuaa streams, the threats posed by microplastics, and ways to protect the islands' natural beauty.

4. Treat yourself to a gourmet donut

A visit to Holey Grail Donuts is an absolute necessity—if you're willing to wait in line, that is. This beloved eatery, founded by sibling duo Nile and Hana Dreiling, often draws a crowd as each donut is made to order. What makes this $4 indulgence stand out? The dough is crafted from taro, a native Hawaiian superfood that’s pounded and fermented, resulting in a fluffy center with a crispy shell (fried in coconut oil). The flavors are frequently updated, featuring unique options like freshly harvested lilikoi, dragonfruit lemonade, and honey cream pineapple with Thai basil. Kudos to this innovative farm-to-dough operation for creating Instagram-ready treats. If you're on Kaua’i, you can also find donuts at their original food truck. Pro tip: Visit after the morning rush to skip the wait.

5. Get creative at a museum

Dive into a diverse array of artworks at The Honolulu Museum of Art, featuring pop-up installations, a range of exhibits, and a summer nights program complete with a DJ and interactive workshops. Enjoy a meal at the cafe or relax on the lawn with live music. The Hawaii State Art Museum, located in the impressive No. 1 Capitol District Building, is a fantastic way to spend your morning or afternoon. Admission is free, with hands-on activities available year-round. Pro tip: After your visit, lace up your walking shoes and hunt for as many outdoor murals as you can; several blocks boast vibrant street art.

6. Ride the waves and surf with a pro

If you're staying at Kaimana Beach Hotel, get ready to boast about your skills. You can take surf or stand-up paddleboard lessons from the 2018 ISA World Longboard Surfing Champion, Kai Sallas. He’ll guide you to a perfect beginner surf spot where the sport originated. For more experienced surfers, he’ll help elevate your skills to the next level.

7. Gather your own food

Become an ethnobotanist for a day with Dr. Nat Bletter, the founder of Madre Chocolate. Participate in his monthly foraging class offered by Slow Food O’ahu in Makiki, where you'll explore edible plants and learn about the slow food movement. Don’t forget to bring a bag and fork; you’ll get to savor a wild-plant salad featuring ingredients like nom nom fruit, pink peppercorns, macadamia nuts, and banana blossoms at the end.

8. Embrace boho-chic with a flower crown

Floral crowns have a rich tradition in Hawaii. Paiko, a botanical boutique in Kaka’ako, pays tribute to the beloved fashion piece known as the haku lei.

Join a private 2-hour flower crown-making session where you’ll create a tropical crown adorned with fresh blooms (think anthuriums and orchids) and beautiful greenery (like ferns and eucalyptus). All plant materials are sourced locally, with a minimum of six and a maximum of 20 guests. Throughout the year, you can also attend classes on succulents, bonsai shaping, and the ancient Hawaiian art of weaving coconut fronds, known as ulana lau niu. Plus, there's a DIY bar where you can pot your own plants! Don't forget to check out gifts like coconut planters, locally made soaps, and jewelry. Happy Haku also offers private and group crown-making sessions.

9. Enjoy a boat cruise on the ocean

Do you recall the first season of The White Lotus when the guests enjoy an ocean cruise to the resort? You and your friends can embark on the same vintage yacht, The Vida Mia. Step aboard this 1929 commuter yacht at the Waikiki marina for a 90-minute cruise. The morning sunrise cruise features Hawaiian coffee, fruit, and pastries, while sunset excursions may include fireworks, cocktails, or live music. Regardless of the time, you’ll appreciate Vida Mia’s beautiful teak wood, stained glass details, and the charming porcelain bathtub below deck. Enjoy stunning ocean views, snap photos of Diamond Head State Monument, and keep an eye out for sea turtles or whales.

10. Indulge in shave ice

What you might know as a snow cone or snowball back home is called shave ice in Honolulu. Popular flavors include tropical lilikoi, melon, guava, and mango, alongside unique pan-Asian options like salted plum, chewy mochi, and sweet red beans. There’s no shortage of shave ice shops in Honolulu, but our top picks are the original Waiola Shave Ice located in a family-owned convenience store in McCully and Lahaina Shave Ice near the Waikiki Beach Walk.

11. Discover Shangri La

Doris Duke, a late philanthropist, is renowned for her many achievements, including being a talented surfer and once the richest young heiress in the world. During her honeymoon, she fell in love with Islamic and Moorish design, creating a tribute at her home known as Shangri La. She invested $1.4 million in the 1930s (equivalent to around $30 million today) on stained glass, tiles, mosaic floors, gardens, fountains, carvings, and artwork for her magnificent 14,000 square foot estate overlooking the ocean. The mother-of-pearl inlaid bedroom alone is worth the visit. The overall beauty of the estate is breathtaking, making it one of Honolulu's top attractions. Be sure to reserve your $25 ticket for a guided tour through the Honolulu Museum of Art as soon as possible.

12. Explore the farmer’s market

Oahu boasts an abundance of incredible produce and local treats. You can find them all in one spot at the Kaka’ako Farmers Market, held every Saturday from 8 am to noon where Ala Moana meets Fisherman’s Wharf. It’s the perfect spot for refreshing iced slushies made with local honey, fresh-pressed sugar cane juice, sushi, poke bowls, barbecue, beautiful flowers, baked goods, and all the fruits, greens, and veggies you’ll need for smoothies and healthy meals throughout the week.

13. Pay a visit to the Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor

The attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, was one of the most catastrophic events in US history. The Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor effectively commemorates this tragedy by sharing the stories of various individuals who lived and worked in the area. Many of them emigrated from places like China and Japan, experiencing profound changes in their lives due to the bombing. After a brief introduction, you’ll board a ferry to the monument located at sea where the USS Arizona rests. Make sure to allow ample time for the whole experience and bring a jacket, as it can be windy out on the water.

14. Enjoy brunch with pink pancakes

Since 1927, The Royal Hawaiian Resort has stood as one of the most iconic hotels in Waikiki. Its unique Spanish-Moorish architecture is striking, but the standout feature is undoubtedly its blush pink facade, earning it the nickname the Pink Palace of the Pacific. You'll find plenty of Instagram-worthy spots, from the vintage rockers with pink cushions by the lobby to the elegant arches of the main corridor. However, our favorite place is the terrace adorned with pink and white umbrellas, where brunch is served. The eggs Benedict and bloody Marys are heavenly, but don’t miss the signature rosy pancakes infused with berries and drizzled with maple syrup.

15. Unwind on Waikiki Beach

After a few days of adventure in Honolulu, you’ll crave some relaxation by the beach. Waikiki was favored by the Hawaiian royal family in the 1800s, and over time, it has become renowned for its beauty and tranquil waters along the Pacific. The Moana Hotel played a pivotal role in developing Waikiki into a globally recognized beach, shopping, and hotel destination. This area is also the birthplace of modern surfing, so expect to see many enthusiasts catching waves. Grab your beach blanket, swimsuit, and sunscreen, and head to the sandy shores.

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