Honolulu, HI Hotels

Every neighbourhood in Honolulu has its own favourite beach with its own distinct character. Surfer boys and bronzed babes abound at Sandy Beach, while Hanauma Bay is snorkelling nirvana. The biggest tourist attractions are a more solemn affair, so pay your respects at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacificand be on your way. If there’s one thing you won’t be doing in Honolulu, it’s lamenting.

Honolulu’s Top 10

Honolulu History

• USS Arizona Memorial – An interesting and grim attraction for those interested in military history.
• Pearl Harbor – The site of the infamous Japanese bombing during World War II.
• Iolani Palace – The former home of the king and queen has the history of the island painted on its walls.
• National Cemetery of the Pacific – This military cemetery is located in one of Honolulu’s many craters.
• Shangri La – The former home of Doris Duke, this Honolulu landmark was built in the 1930s.

Honolulu Art & Culture

• Plantation Village – This traditional Honolulu village has homes open for public viewing.
• Mission Houses Museum – A great place to learn about the rich culture and history of Honolulu.
• Queen Emma Summer Palace – This palace was converted into a history museum.
• Hawaii State Capitol – This unique Honolulu building allows people to take self-guided tours.
• Chinatown – This district in Honolulu offers great food and a look at the diverse culture of the island.

Honolulu Shopping

• Ala Moana Center – One of the best places for all types of shopping on the island of Oahu.
• Waikele Outlet Mall – Find discounts on famous brands while shopping in over 50 stores.
• Chinatown Lei Stands – The best place to find great bargains on leis and flowers while in Honolulu.
• Hilo Hatties – This unique store is the best place in Honolulu for all your island apparel.
• ABC Stores – Located nearly everywhere in Honolulu, this chain is a wonderful place to buy souvenirs.

Gay & Lesbian Honolulu

• Rainbow Film Festival – This annual May festival features films by gay and lesbian filmmakers.
• Aloha Lambda Weddings – Organizes gay and lesbian commitment ceremonies while on Honolulu.
• Gay and Lesbian Community Center – Offers services and programs to meet the needs of the gay and lesbian community.
• Odyssey Hawaii Magazine – This publication lists all the happenings at gay and lesbian nightspots.
• Long Yang Club – This club holds monthly gatherings for those sick of the bar scene.

Honolulu Outdoor

• Honolulu Zoo –Take a nice stroll while looking at some of the unique wildlife at this outdoor zoo.
• Hanauma Bay Marine Reserve – One of the best places for snorkelling enthusiasts in Honolulu.
• Lanakai Pillboxes Hike – This Honolulu hike offers some of the best views of the island.
• Sea Life Park – This water park offers dolphin shows and a chance to swim with these mammals while in Honolulu.
• Aloha Beach Service – This private beach is a great place to learn how to surf.

Honolulu Sport

• Jet ski, parasail or do other adventurous activities in Honolulu with Aloha Parasail.
• Play beach volleyball or go for a slide at Hawaii Wet N’ Wild.
• Swim in perfect waters and play on the pristine beaches at Ko ‘Olina Lagoons.
• Take a wild ride on a banana boat, a six-person inflatable craft.
• Play golf in absolutely beautiful settings at the Ala Wai Golf Course.

Honolulu Events

In the last weekend in January, the Ala Wai Challenge brings competitors from around the Hawaiian Islands to compete in sports from canoe racing to spear throwing. Best viewed from a distance.

Participants come from as far as Japan to ear their hula-hooping laurels at the King Kamehameha Hula Competition in June.

It may attract the best local and international musicians each year, but July’s Hawaii International Jazz Festival is just as famous for its beautiful sunset concerts.

The annual Hawaii State Fair brings a bit of homely Americana to the tropical islands in August.

New Year’s Eve sees Honolulu’s streets jam-packed with parades and partying. Apparently there are quieter options, too – but why would you want them?

When To Go

Mid-December to April is the busiest period.

Hurricane season is between June and November, but there hasn’t been a major storm for over 15 years.

Winter brings the biggest waves and is the time for the more adventurous surfer.

Getting Around

Buses are very reliable and are readily available.

The taxi service in Honolulu is impeccable, and the drivers always know the best bars and the quietest beaches.

Trams or trolleys are slow enough to allow you to take in (or take photos of) the passing city.

Honolulu Information

Attractions & Activities

Restaurant & Nightlife

Climate

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