IO things to do in Honolulu
An insider’s guide to the palm-fringed Hawaiian capital
I Snorkel at Waikiki
Swim alongside green sea turtles on a dreamy snorkelling excursion from America’s most famous stretch of sand. Waikiki is Honolulu’s beating heart, but as soon as you put your head under the water, you’ll be in a world of your own. If you’re lucky, you may even spot a dolphin.
2 Visit Pearl Harbor
Japan’s surprise attack on Hawaii in 1941 was one of the pivotal moments of World War II, because it drew the United States into the fray. The museum provides visitors the opportunity to learn about the strike and dive into the stories of some of the 2403 people who lost their lives. While you’re here, it’s also worth visiting the USS Arizona and Battleship Missouri memorials.
3 Hike to Diamond Head
This popular trail takes you up to a dormant volcano crater, offering sweeping views of the city and the ocean. It’s short but steep – about 186m of elevation gain in a 2.5km-round trip – but it’s worth it to shake off the jet lag, get the blood pumping and work up a big appetite. You’re going to need it, because the city is home to some fabulous restaurants, street food, and markets.
4 Duke’s Beach House
Nothing says you’re on holiday like eating zesty fresh fish tacos while barefoot on the beach. Duke’s is a Hawaiian restaurant chain that has become an institution thanks to its beachfront locations, excellent seafood and live music. If you love surf’n’turf, this is the place to get it.
5 Visit Hanauma Bay
Just 20 minutes outside Honolulu is Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, a protected bay famous for its clear azure water. The shallow reef means it’s teeming with marine life, so allow at least two hours to swim and explore. Word to the wise, book your tickets online beforehand.
6 Explore Kapahulu
Situated right next to Waikiki, the bustling Kapahulu neighbourhood is the best place to find eclectic stores and boutique cafes. You can pick up everything from vintage aloha shirts to some of the city’s best eats. Dive into traditional Hawaiian comfort food with a plate lunch from Ono Hawaiian BBQ and don’t miss the malasada (fried dough) from Leonard’s Bakery.
7 Shop at Ala Moana
The world’s biggest outdoor shopping centre is just an eight-minute taxi ride from Waikiki. It’s home to about 290 shops and is the place you want to be if you love shopping for bargains on high-end labels. And you can check out a live hula show at 5pm every afternoon.
8 Dive into Chinatown
Honolulu has one of the oldest Chinatowns in the US. It stretches over 15 blocks and it’s where you’ll find exciting eats, as well as the open-air Oahu Market and the Hawaii Theatre. Foodies will love the spicy Vietnamese-American fusion dishes at The Pig and The Lady, and while you’re here, pick up a handmade jasmine lei from the family-owned Lin’s Lei Shop.
9 See Iolani Palace
This historical landmark was built in 1882 and was the home of five of Hawaii’s rulers, until the monarchy was overthrown. It came crashing down with Queen Lili‘uokalani, who was in her bedroom for eight months.
IO Eat fresh pineapple
The Dole Plantation, about 50 minutes fro Honolulu, is one of Oahu’s most famous attractions. It started as a fruit stand in 1950 and now has a Pineapple Express Train Tour, Plantation Garden Tour, Pineapple Garden Maze and incredible soft-serve ice cream.
Explore more touring and cruising at escape.com.au