Honolulu is authentic, unexpected, and cosmopolitan. Home to the majority of the population of the island of Oahu, the Hawaiian state capital boasts a dizzying blend of Victorian-era architecture, historic pan-Asian alleyways, and palm-lined seafront. This is a city where you can choose your own adventure: spend days sightseeing, embarking on epic hikes, or lazing on Ala Moana Beach. At night, head to Chinatown to grab a bite to eat and experience this area’s eclectic art and nightlife, or visit the upscale cocktail bars of Waikiki.
A defining feature of Honolulu, striking Diamond Head is a 300,000-year-old volcanic crater that overlooks the city. Follow the trail right to the edge of the crater to enjoy jaw-dropping views overlooking the sparkling Pacific Ocean and Honolulu itself. The round trip on foot takes approximately two hours - the trail isn’t long but is steep and uneven in places.
History buffs should visit the Pearl Harbor National Memorial to pay their respects to the 1,177 sailors and Marines killed during the Japanese surprise attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. At this free museum, visitors learn about one of the most pivotal moments in US history, and the subsequent entry of the US into World War II.
The protected marine life conservation area of Hanauma Bay - voted the Best Beach in the US in 2016 - is an underwater wildlife paradise. Originally formed within a volcanic cone, this Bay was used by Hawaiian Royalty for fishing and recreation for many years. Grab a snorkel to explore the coral and hundreds of tropical fish and marine animals.
Oahu is not a large island: if you rent a car from Honolulu Airport car rental and head north, you’ll arrive on the North Shore in around 40 minutes. This legendary surf mecca is home to seven miles of glorious beaches. Watch the pros compete in winter, or hop on a board yourself to enjoy summer’s gentler waves. This super relaxed destination is also home to the charming surf town of Haleiwa, and the old plantation town of Kahuku.
Looking for a slower pace of life on Oahu? The Windward Coast is the answer. With sparkling turquoise oceans against the sky, this destination - a 30-minute drive from Honolulu - boasts some of the most stunning natural beauty on the island. After renting a car from Honolulu Airport, plan a road trip that takes in Windward Coast attractions including the serene Valley of the Temples, the island of Mokolii, and Kualoa Ranch. Stop at the ranch’s scenic valley for horseback riding and ziplining.
The sundrenched Leeward Coast lies at the foot of the Waianae mountain range - utilize a Honolulu car rental and you’ll be able to reach it in a 45-minute drive. This side of the island is less developed than the capital city, swapping urban bustle for picturesque towns and off-the-beaten-track beaches. Highlights include the Paradise Cove Luau, the sacred Kaena Point, and Makaha Beach - one of the first spots surfers began big wave surfing.
A convertible is ideal for enjoying Oahu’s scenery and sunshine.
Honolulu Airport
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July, with 323 hours on average.
December, with 96.5 mm on average.
Honolulu Festival, Punahou Carnival, Space Jam