Honolulu Attractions ~ Best of Oahu

There are some great Honolulu Attractions to discover, experience, and remember when visiting Oahu!  From the simple pleasures of visiting the Waikiki Aquarium and the Honolulu Zoo, to swimming with the many colorful Hanauma Bay Oahu fish, there are some wonderful Honolulu Attractions worth discovering.  Once you’ve had enough sun and sand and need a little break, you can mozy on down to Pearl Harbor, the Iolani Palace Honolulu , and the Bishop Museum Hawaii.

Living Hawaii ~ Animals and Marine Life

Honolulu Zoo

Another great family attraction is the popular Honolulu Zoo.  You may forget for a moment that you are actually in Hawaii once you step into the zoo and into the African Savannah, or the Reptile Garden, and a bird sanctuary.  Don’t forget to take the kids to the Keiki (kid) section of the zoo.

The monkeys, elephants, giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, lions, alligators, tropical birds and many other zoo members will be waiting to greet you with aloha!

The Honolulu Zoo is located just after the long stretch of Waikiki Hotels, and just before you enter Kapiolani Park.

Waikiki Aquarium

Originally built in 1904 and remains as today’s 3rd oldest Aquarium in the world, the Waikiki Aquarium still attracts big crowds everyday–both local and visitors. 

This Honolulu attraction hosts an impressive 3,500 species of Hawaiian marine life and fish, including monk seals, octopus, squid, reef sharks, jelly fish, crabs, and hundreds of colorful reef fish.

The Waikiki Aquarium is located across from Kapiolani Park next door to the Waikiki Natatorium War Memorial and San Souci Beach.  It’s a fun activity for the whole family!

Hanauma Bay Oahu

I can’t recommend a better way to view Oahu’s colorful array of tropical fish, than jumping right into the water with them!

The volcanic crater that once exploded into a crescent moon-shaped beach, is home to hundreds of Hanauma Bay fish and marine life.

Hanauma Bay Oahu is located just a half hour outside of Waikiki.  It’s worth an early start to beat the crowds that seek this popular Honolulu attraction daily.

History of Oahu and the Hawaiian Islands

Visiting Pearl Harbor Honolulu

You will be inclined to take a moment of respect and honor to credit the WWII soldiers who perished during the battle that took place at Pearl Harbor Honolulu – a moment  in history that sent shockwaves around the world.

The Arizona Memorial and the Missouri Battleship monuments have a powerful presence that will leave you in awe and full of emotion.

Visiting Pearl Harbor Honolulu is a great half to full day excursion – one that you should plan accordingly and start very early in the morning.  It is an amazing lesson in history for the entire family.  

Bishop Museum Honolulu

Built in the late 1800’s the Bishop Museum Honolulu has an amazing collection and preservation of the Hawaiian Islands and the Polynesian culture.

The newly renovated great hall is an interactive experience with an active erupting volcano, an ancient cave to explore, an impressive collection of shark skeletons, hula demonstrations and fun workshops…and much much more.

Located just 15 minutes outside of Waikiki, the Bishop Museum Honolulu
is a fun, educational, and life enriching experience for the whole family.

Iolani Palace Honolulu

This amazing National Historic Landmark in downtown Honolulu was originally built by King Kalakaua in 1882.  It became the official residence of Hawaii's intriguing monarchy.  King Kalakaua and his sister, Queen Lili'uokalani, who later became his successor, enjoyed this opulent and grand  palace as their official residence.  Ironically, and shortly after it was built, Hawaii's monarchy was ended and Queen Lili'uokalani was imprisoned in her very own Iolani Palace.

The Iolani Palace was lovingly and meticulously restored to its former glory so you can enjoy a piece of Hawaii's royal heritage!

I recommend taking a guided docent tour, which you can schedule ahead of your visit.  The tour is inexpensive and fascinating to listen to, as you walk the Koa wood floors and explore the grand halls and rooms that are full of Hawaiian history.

Honolulu Neighborhoods

Chinatown Honolulu

The Chinatown Honolulu area itself has become a Honolulu attraction with the surge of new Hawaiian art galleries, boutique shops, dynamic restaurant, bars and clubs.  

This is an evolving area where new hip life is starting to occupy the century old buildings.  Mixed in with the old farmers market stalls, beautiful flower lei stands and rustic character of the surrounding buildings, Chinatown Honolulu has become a new Oahu destination worth a visit.

Waikiki Hawaii

 I’m sure you don’t need me to tell you that Waikiki Hawaii is one of the most popular Honolulu attractions and perhaps the most well-known, but I would love to take a moment to point out a few unique points of interest in this bustling city.  

Grab a Puka Dog while visiting the International Market Place, take a stroll along Waikiki Beach and check out the old surf racks with hundreds of vintage surfboards.  Perhaps you might be inspired to take surf lessons and experience some of the most gentle and consistent beginner's waves in Oahu.  Don't forget to check out some of the bigger main attractions like the Honolulu Zoo and the Waikiki Aquarium with the family.

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