The Bishop Museum is Hawaii's largest museum dedicated to the study and understanding of the native Hawaiian culture and history. The museum's collection includes various exhibits, demonstrations, and multimedia displays. Visitors can also explore the planetarium and the science adventure center.
Waikiki Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Hawaii, known for its crystal-clear waters, white sand, and perfect waves suitable for beginners and experienced surfers. Apart from swimming and surfing, visitors can also enjoy sunbathing, shopping, dining, and entertainment in the nearby area.
The Dole Plantation is a family-friendly destination featuring a plantation garden tour, a pineapple express train ride, a maze, and a garden center. Visitors can learn about the Hawaiian agriculture, history, and culture while enjoying the fresh air and scenic views.
The Iolani Palace is a historic landmark and the only royal palace in the United States. The palace served as the residence of the Hawaiian monarchs from 1882 until 1893 when the Hawaiian monarchy was overthrown. Visitors can now explore the palace's stunning architecture, furniture, and artifacts that reflect the royal Hawaiian lifestyle.
The Pearl Harbor National Memorial is a tribute to the events that led to the United States' entry into World War II. The memorial includes the USS Arizona Memorial, the Battleship Missouri Memorial, and the Pacific Aviation Museum. Visitors can pay their respects to the fallen heroes and learn about the history of the war.
Lanikai Beach is a picturesque beach that is ideal for snorkeling, kayaking, and swimming. It is known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, pristine sand, and stunning views of Moku Nui and Moku Iki islands.
The Polynesian Cultural Center is a unique attraction that showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Pacific Islands. The center features cultural demonstrations, performances, and hands-on activities that allow visitors to experience the customs, traditions, and history of Hawaii, Samoa, Fiji, Tahiti, Tonga, and Aotearoa (New Zealand).
Hanauma Bay is a nature reserve and a popular snorkeling spot that is home to a diverse range of marine life. Visitors can snorkel in the crystal-clear waters and explore the colorful coral reefs and fish. The bay also offers hiking trails, educational exhibits, and a stunning beach.
Duke's Waikiki is a beachfront restaurant named after the legendary Duke Kahanamoku, a Hawaiian surfing icon. The restaurant offers freshly caught seafood, island-inspired cuisine, and a tropical atmosphere. Visitors can relax and enjoy the delicious food while listening to live music and watching the sunset over Waikiki Beach.
As a family-friendly destination, Honolulu has various transportation options to get around, depending on your preference, budget, and time. The most popular transportation options include renting a car, taking a taxi or ride-sharing service, using public transportation, or joining a guided tour. Renting a car is recommended for convenience and flexibility, but it also incurs parking fees, insurance, and fuel costs. Taxis and ride-sharing services are widely available but can be costly, especially during peak travel times. Public transportation includes buses and trolleys, which are inexpensive but can be crowded and infrequent. Guided tours are a popular option for families, as they offer a hassle-free and informative experience, but they can be more expensive than self-guided exploration. The average cost of transportation in Honolulu is $2.75 per bus ride, $40-60 per day for car rental, $3.75 per mile for taxi, and $80-150 per person for guided tours.
If you have more time, consider adding visits to the Manoa Falls, Kualoa Ranch, Shangri La Museum of Islamic Art, or Chinatown. If you have less time, skip some of the attractions on this itinerary or shorten the duration of your visit. Make sure to pack comfortable shoes, sunscreen, water, and snacks for your exploration. Lastly, practice your "aloha spirit" by respecting the local customs, attitude, and environment.
Honolulu International Airport (HNL) is the main airport in Honolulu, located 5 miles northwest of the city center. It is the busiest airport in Hawaii, serving as a hub for various domestic and international airlines, including Hawaiian Airlines, United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, and Japan Airlines. Some of the popular non-stop routes from HNL include Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, Tokyo, Sydney, and Auckland. The airport offers various amenities and services, such as restaurants, shops, lounges, Wi-Fi, ATM, currency exchange, rental cars, taxis, shuttles, and public transportation.