Visit Honolulu

There’s a reason why more than seven million people visit Hawaii each year – it’s a tropical adventure for every taste. Nature lovers will enjoy wonders like Diamond Head and first class surfing off the North Shore while serenity seekers will find a paradise of white sandy beaches.

Listen as Anne McDermott talks to Bruce Fisher of  hawaii-aloha.com about what islands to visit and why.

And Honolulu, located on the island of Oahu, is the gateway to these delights – a city steeped in history, that also offers visitors a lively mix of big city sophistication and a casual Aloha spirit. Few tourists can resist returning to Hawaii – again and again.

Flights to Honolulu

Flying to Honolulu is simple and so is finding cheap flights to Honolulu.

Honolulu International Airport (HNL): Honolulu’s airport is one of the busiest in the U.S. with more than 20 million visitors a year; it is the main aviation gateway to all the Hawaiian Islands. The facility is served by more than 20 U.S. and international carriers, and is a hub for islands-based Hawaiian Airlines and Go!

Attractions in Honolulu

There’s no way to do justice to the all that Honolulu offers in these short entries, so be sure to check the links below for more.

Diamond Head – Early British sailors mistook sparkling stones in this edifice for diamonds, but this is actually what’s left of an old volcanic eruption; hike to the edge of the crater’s rim and have a camera with you because the views of Honolulu, Waikiki Beach and the surrounding countryside are spectacular.

The USS Arizona Memorial – This is the resting place of more than 1,100 sailors who were killed when the Arizona was attacked by the Japanese in Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941. The sunken remains of this battleship are now a National Historic Landmark that is viewed by more than a million people a year.

‘Iolani Palace – The only royal residence used by a reigning monarch in the United States, ‘Iolani Palace was home to King Kalākaua and Queen Liliʻuokalani. Since 1978, it has been open to the public as a museum; its location in downtown Honolulu makes for easy access.

Waikiki Beach – A beautiful stretch of white sand with warm, clear water revered by sunbathers and surfers alike. Purists may carp that that events like Waikiki surfing competitions and hulu exhibitions in the shadow of all those resort hotels make this beach too “touristy” for some tastes, but that doesn’t stop million from enjoying it year after year. Bring your sunscreen.

Shopping and Restaurants in Honolulu

Dining: Fresh fish and excellent local chefs with international reputations fuel the Honolulu restaurant scene and neighborhood hangouts offer flavorful pupu platters. Top it off with a “shave ice” – a local favorite.

Shopping: Open air malls and outlet stores vie with designer boutiques and check out Hawaiian crafts for sale throughout the city. Browse the surf shops for local specialties.

Smart Tip

Fly from Honolulu’s airport to all other Hawaiian hotspots; Maui, Hilo and Lanai are all just a 30 minute flight away.

More Information on Honolulu

Get all the details on Honolulu and Hawaii favorites plus lesser known attractions and tips for tourists.

The Islands of Hawaii – This guide has it all: attractions, dining, shopping, hotels and more, plus useful visitor information.

Visit Oahu – Keep up with the latest events and festivals; this site will even help you plan a wedding in Hawaii.

World Guides: Honolulu – Includes tourism information plus maps, weather and more.