Come to the iconic Waikiki Beach and soak up the sunshine on its golden sand. Take surfing lessons, rent a canoe or paddleboard, or simply relax by the seaside. There are also family-friendly facilities to change and refresh.
Get ready for an insightful experience at the Iolani Palace, the only royal palace in the United States. Visitors can learn the history of the Hawaiian monarchy, admire the stunning architecture and decor, and wander through the lovely gardens.
Feel the adrenaline rush as you zip through the trees on Kualoa Ranch. All tour guides are knowledgeable and friendly, and they ensure your safety at all times. You can also saddle up for a horseback ride or ATV adventure and see where famous movies were filmed.
Pay tribute to the tragic events that occurred on December 7, 1941, at Pearl Harbor. The memorial tour includes the USS Arizona Memorial, the Battleship Missouri Memorial, and the Pacific Aviation Museum.
Spend a fun day with your family at the Honolulu Zoo. This 42-acre zoo houses over 1,200 animals and offers educational programs. Rent a stroller or wagon for your little ones, and don't miss the giraffes or the invertebrate exhibit.
Challenge your family with an adventurous trek to the top of Diamond Head. This volcanic crater offers scenic views of Oahu's south coast and Honolulu's skyline. Bring suitable footwear, sunscreen, and water bottles, as the trail can be steep and strenuous.
Immerse yourselves in Islamic art and culture at the Shangri La Museum. You can join guided tours, view the vast collection of decorative arts, and admire the stunning architecture and views of the ocean. Make advance online reservations for this popular attraction.
Relax in the picturesque paradise of Lanikai Beach, with its powdery white sand and clear blue water. This beach is perfect for water activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, or stand-up paddleboarding, all of which you can rent on site. Remember to respect the environment and stay on the shoreline.
Experience Hawaiian culture firsthand by attending a traditional luau. There are various places in Honolulu that offer this celebrated dining entertainment, with fire dancers, hula performances, and fresh island cuisine. Check with your hotel concierge and reserve tickets in advance.
Finish your family vacation with some shopping at Ala Moana Center, the largest open-air mall in America. There are over 350 stores across four levels, with designer brands, food courts, movie theaters, and kid-friendly play areas. You can also catch the daily hula show or Japanese tea ceremony.
Public transportation can be unreliable, so it’s better to rent a car or hire a shuttle service to move around easily. Expect to pay around $30-50 per day for a rental car, and factor in the daily parking costs, which range from $5 to $20 depending on the location. Take note of the rush hours, as traffic can be heavy, especially on the weekdays. If you prefer, you can also hire a private driver or join a guided tour, which cost more but give you a stress-free experience with expert narration.
If you have more time, consider taking a day trip to the North Shore and watch professional surfers break the waves or visit the Polynesian Cultural Center to learn about the Pacific Islander’s history and traditions. For less stress, you can also cut a few activities or merge them if they are located near each other, depending on your family's interests.
Honolulu International Airport (HNL) is the primary airport serving Honolulu and the state of Hawaii. It's located 3 miles (5 km) northwest of downtown`s financial center. It's accessible by taxi or ride-share services, public transit (with connections), or car rentals available at the airport. There are ATMs, restaurants, coffee shops, baggage storage, and parking facilities in the terminal, with free Wi-Fi throughout. Security can take a while, so arrive 2 hours before your domestic departure and 3 hours before your international departure.