Things to Do

12 Most Popular Fun Things to do in Honolulu Hawaii

Do scroll down to find out must do things in Honolulu (Photo Courtesy: 🇺🇸Roy E.🇵🇭)
Source : instagram

Things to do in Honolulu Hawaii are

  1. Paradise Cove Luau
  2. Lolani Palace  
  3.  Ala Moana Center
  4. Helicopter Ride
  5. Dole Plantation. 

Honolulu is already known for its water activities, friendliness, natural beauty, and memorable getaways. There are numerous activities to do in the area which makes vacation planning more hectic.

For sure, choosing a particular activity that offers gratis services and fun at the same time is a hassle, but the burden on your shoulder is lifted as we have found interesting places in Hawaii that will create a lifetime of memories without recking your wallet.

Discover the hidden gems of Honolulu Hawaii on a captivating tour, where you'll encounter charming eateries, local delights, and the beauty of the landscape.

With 12 exotic locations to choose from, you have the opportunity to explore the diverse culture and scenic beauty that Honolulu has to offer.

Whether you're a gallivanter or a connoisseur who knows exactly what you want, need not worry as these tours will take your journey like no other. Enjoy everything The Aloha State has to offer and more with your loved ones or by yourself.

1. Enjoy The Traditional Paradise Cove Luau

Traditional Paradise Cove Luau is a must to experience Hawaiian culture. 
Source : instagram

Traditional Paradise Cove Luau is a must to experience Hawaiian culture. It is worth every penny, to watch the cultural event as one gets to experience the cultural diversity, food, dance, live shows, and many more.

Located at the beautiful Ko Olina Resort on Oahu, Paradise Cove Luau features brilliant seaside luau. They put on a show with hula & fire dancers. 

But before you reach the destination, you must purchase a ticket that comes with a "Cove Card" which costs $12 per adult and $8 per youth/child. The card can be further used to buy beverages and Cove Marketplace merchandise.

2. See the Iconic Lolani Palace

Lolani Palace opened to the public as a museum in 1978.
Source : instagram

Iolani Palace is a National Historic Landmark and the official state residence of royalty opened in 1879. Built by architects Charles J. Wall, Thomas J. Baker, and Isaac Moore, the American Florentine-style palace gives a glimpse of Hawaii's rich culture and architecture.

Iolani Palace Things To Do

  • Take a self-guided tour of the historic palace.
  • Hear stories of the lavish royal events that took place here.
  • Experience Hawaiian history and culture.
  • See the royal jewels in the museum.

3. Buy Some Souvenir At The Ala Moana Center

Ala Moana is one of the best places to shop for souvenirs
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Ala Moana, the world's largest open-air shopping centre is one of the best places to shop for souvenirs. It features over 290 stores and 70 eateries, four department stores, and many Hawai'i retailers.

Things To Do In Ala Moana

  • Spend a day exploring a million stores inside the mall.
  • People watch and enjoy a meal at the on-site eateries.
  • Hang loose and enjoy the local ukulele players and hula dancers.
  • Buy clothes and other gift items for people back home.

4. Take A Helicopter Ride Over Honolulu

Take A Helicopter Ride Over Honolulu Hawaii For An Ariel View
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Experience a thrilling helicopter ride in Hawaii that includes views of Waikiki Beach, Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial. Explore Kaneohe Bay and the hidden gems of Ka’a’awa Valley and Sacred Falls during the helicopter ride.

The Honolulu heli offers an 18-minute, a 30-minute, and a 60 minutes tour depending on the requirements of the visitor. Through the helicopter ride, you can get a bird's eye view of the hidden rainforests, historic sites, and lush valleys. 

These companies proffer thrill-seeking door-off adventures which will remain intact in your memories for a lifetime.

5. Visit Dole Plantation For Pineapple Varieties

When in Hawaii, do not forget to visit Dole Plantation to taste the ripe tropical Pineapple
Source : unsplash

One of the top things to do in Oahu is visit Dole Plantation, a pineapple plantation. Spread across 3-acre land of pineapple maze, it was established in 1950.

With the most giant maze in the world and train rides, it is a perfect spot for families. So, what are you waiting for, grab your phone and book a ticket to Hawaii and spend a fun weekend with you kids and loved ones in Honolulu.

Are you wondering what to do in Dole Plantation?

If you are confused about what to do on the plantation, here is a list of things that might be fun to do 

  • Take a narrated Pineapple Express train and enjoy the beauty of the North Shore.
  • Learn the story of James Drummond Dole and his agricultural empire.
  • Stroll through the gorgeous landscape on the plantation.
  • Ride the Ohana Express.
  • Feed the koi fish.

6. Enjoy Snorkeling with Sea Turtles on the North Shore

Swimming with sea Turtles is one of the perks of visting Hawaii
Source : instagram

There are hundreds of things to do in Honolulu Waikiki Beach. It is well known that Hawaii has earned its name for its deep blue oceans and lush greenery.

So, if you're on a trip to Honolulu, do make plans to watch turtles this year with your loved ones. If not plan a summer vacation with your spouse or family as it is a great time to see green turtles swim across the ocean as they love sunbathing just like we humans do!

Doesn't matter which beach you choose to go to, there will be plenty of opportunities to observe the sea turtle in their natural habitat. You can snorkel along with them on the ocean or watch them in the comfort of your boat.

Some of the best places to see turtles in Hawaii are

  • Laniakea Beach
  • Fort DeRussy Beach
  • Electric Beach
  • Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
  • Makua Beach
  • Haleiwa Beach
  • Waikiki Beach

7. Munch On Some Malasadas at Leonardʻs Bakery

Have you tried fluffy malasadas in Hawaii yet??
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Leonardʻs Bakery is a local fixture that has been active since 1952. The bakery is famous for selling malasadas (Portuguese doughnuts), bread, pastries & other sweets.

These no-hole doughnuts are like doughier beignets jam-packed with flavours and rich in texture. If you have not tried the goodness yet, you can eat it as it is or fill it up with custards or local fruit jams for a sweeter taste.

Details about the bakery

  • Service options: Takeaway · No dine-in · No delivery
  • Address: 933 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816, United States
  • Hours: 5:30 AM- 7 PM
  • Menu: places.singleplatform.com
  • Phone: +1 808-737-5591

8. Try The Famous Spam Musubi At Ma'Ona Musubi

Hawaii's Famous Spam Musubi At Ma'Ona Musubi
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Ma'Ona Musubi is one of the places to go Honolulu. A Japanese restaurant, Ma' Ona serves onigirazu (sandwich-style musubi) & donburi (rice bowls).

Spam Musubi looks simple but it tastes amazing. You can have it as a breakfast, lunch or even snack to fulfil your savoury cravings. Making spam musubi is simple, you need some spam slices, rice, and nori.

First, you have to grill the meat and block it on either side with sticky white rice and wrap it together with nori in the tradition of Japanese onigiri. And the traditional musubi is ready.

Details about the restaurant

  • Service options: Dine-in · Takeaway · Delivery
  • Address: 921 Alakea St, Honolulu, HI 96813, United States
  • Hours:
  • Phone: +1 808-536-8009
  • Order: grubhub.com, doordash.com, seamless.com

9. Nocturnal Adventures Hawaii

Go nighttime boating to watch the fireworks this summer with your loved ones
Source : facebook

Feel The Profound Connection With Nature with Nocturnal Adventures Hawaii, which is among the best attractions in Honolulu Hawaii.

Nocturnal is a new startup company that has introduced a unique water activity in the area. While people were only enjoying the daytime water activities in Hawaii, the company took a new step by introducing a brand new night/evening water sport.

Their sea activities include nighttime outdoor activities that are both educational as well as entertaining. Furthermore, they specialize in evening boat rides and paddle boarding to watch the fireworks.

But the fun doesn't end there, you can also try evening snorkelling, surfing, and beach workouts with your family and friends.

10. Try The Hawaiian Special Shave Ice

Hawaiian Special Shave Ice At Matsumoto's
Source : instagram

Japan's original ice desert, shave ice was introduced in Hawaii during the plantation era. Trying the delicacy is a fun thing to do in Honolulu Hawaii.

To make this fun Hawaiian dessert, all you need is some crushed ice, which should be almost powdery and some sugar, fruit, or chocolate syrups of your choice.

Now shape the snow powder into a ball and top it with your desired syrup.

But, it's not done yet, you can also have the snow cone with a scoop of ice cream, toasted coconut, condensed milk, or Li Hing Mui powder and voila your snow cones aka shaved ice is ready to be served!!!

11. Go Dolphin Watching and Snorkeling

Snorkelling is way fun when cutest dolphins cross your path
Source : facebook

Are you wondering what to see in Honolulu?? If yes, your quest is now over as we have found a perfect day sport for you in Honolulu Hawaii.

Once you enter and watch the world of Dolphins, you will discover an unforgettable creature in its natural habitat. To begin the fun, you can take a cruise or boat along the west coast of Oahu or Maui, and watch the smooth skin flippers dancing on the blue ocean.

If you want to explore some more, grab a set of snorkelling gear and dive into the ocean to swim alongside dolphins, colourful fishes and turtles.

On the bright side, you do not have to worry about your safety,  as there are trained guides, lifesavers, and free divers for any emergency available on the cruise.

Highlights

  • Watch dolphins from your boat 
  • Enjoy stand-up paddling, kayaking, and snorkelling
  • Partake onboard entertainment like Hula dance and traditional "E Ho Mai" ceremony
  • Snorkel in pristine waters 

12. Have You Tried Submarine Scooter Adventure??

Try the new Submarine Scooter Adventure for a better aquatic life experience
Source : tripadvisor

Ride a self-propelled underwater scooter to uncover the majestic marine life of Honolulu during a day's voyage. The ride allows you to observe marine animals like sea turtles, tropical fishes, dolphins and many more.

It is a perfect family activity for nature lovers and aquatic life fanatics. And yes, you do need prior experience to ride this underwater scooter.

If you are wondering how to get an electric scooter for yourself, the answer is simple, all you have to do is set out to the nearest beach and board a power catamaran that passes Diamond Head Crater on the way to your dive spot.