Honolulu, in southeast Oahu, is Hawaii’s state capital. The imposing Aloha Tower lighthouse greets arriving visitors with its Gothic architecture, while Ala Moana Park, with its serene beach, offers a break from the city’s bustle. History is the everywhere here, and you can step into the past at iconic sights such as Pearl Harbor, or explore the restored 19th-century homes in the Mission Houses Museum.

Head to one of Honolulu’s beachfront cafes to sample pokē, a lightly spiced raw-fish salad, washed down with a freshly made tropical-fruit smoothie, before watching a smoldering sunset from an idyllic vantage point on palm-fringed Waikiki Beach.

What to see & do in Honolulu

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Things to do in Honolulu include an entire universe of experiences, from outdoor adventure, culinary tours, heritage sites, and eco-tourism to family fun, romance, sightseeing, and relaxation. You can tour a dormant volcano at Diamond Head or see the Iolani Palace, home of the last monarchs of Hawaii. To explore Polynesian culture, you can visit the Bishop Museum.See the iconic Pearl Harbor historic site and aviation museum. Relax along the...

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Where & what to eat in Honolulu

Food and dining in Honolulu opens the door to a rich fusion of multicultural influences. You can experience Hawaii's farm-to-table regional cuisine, head for a barefoot fish taco stand, and wander through surfer-friendly towns that focus on the freshest seafood dishes. Many of the restaurants here offer influences from China, Japan, the Philippines, and of course, American mainland culinary tradition to create a truly unique fusion of food and culture. Some...

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Where to shop & what to buy in Honolulu

  • 10 Best Places to Go Shopping in Honolulu

    Honolulu offers some of the best shopping experiences in Hawaii, whether you’re on the hunt for brand-name fashions or looking for unique local arts and crafts. Taking advantage of Honolulu’s mild tropical weather, many shopping malls have open-air layouts with lush gardens and rows of palms. Some malls are within easy reach of downtown Honolulu, while there are plenty of...

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Where to go & what to do at night in Honolulu

Nightlife in Honolulu seems to never end, as everything from craft-cocktail lounges to trendy nightclubs come to life after the sun sets. The iconic image of Hawaiian nightlife involves tiki bars, and, of course, these can be found on just about every corner, with the tropical cocktails and umbrellas to match. Check out places like the La Mariana Sailing Club and Arnold's Beach Bar for some of the more popular...

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