Honolulu, Hawaii

The capital and major port city of Honolulu is known for its vibrant culture, splendid natural beauty, and rich history. The city is also known for its laid-back, relaxed atmosphere, making it one of the best places to experience the Aloha spirit and enjoy the island lifestyle. Honolulu is a popular port city, with one official port, the Honolulu Harbor. The city has numerous beautiful beaches, mountains, and lush landscapes, offering a great opportunity for outdoor activities. From exploring poignant and somber sites like Pearl Harbor National Memorial to natural wonders like Diamond Head and world-famous beach, the Waikiki Beach, and scenic hikes to Manoa Falls, makes Honolulu one of the best cruising destinations. Let us find out the top attractions of Honolulu and learn why they are famous.

Most Popular Itineraries

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    4 Nights Pacific Coastal Cruise

    Zaandam

    $280
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    7 Nights Caribbean

    Norwegian Getaway

    $650
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    10 Nights Alaska Cruise

    Majestic Princess

    $3999
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    3 Nights Bahamas Cruise

    Allure of the Seas

    $400
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    5 Nights Bahamas Cruise

    Carnival Conquest

    $600
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    10 Nights Mediterranean

    Silver Moon

    $4111

Honolulu's Top Attractions and Activities

Waikiki Beach

Globally known for its stunning views, soft white sand, clear turquoise waters, and numerous water-based sports, Waikiki Beach is one of the best places to relax, unwind, and soak in some sun. This beach in the city offers numerous activities for visitors. Hike to Diamond Head for panoramic views, explore the beach on foot, and enjoy shopping, dining, and entertainment. The beach offers an excellent opportunity to partake in numerous water activities such as surfing, snorkeling, paddleboarding, kayaking, and swimming.

 

Pearl Harbor National Memorial

Visit this historic site commemorating the popular event of December 7, 1941, and the beginning of World War II. Explore the visitor center, featuring exhibit galleries including Road to War, explaining the events leading to the Great War, and Attack, displaying artifacts, photographs, and personal accounts of survivors. This historic site consists of the USS Arizona Memorial, USS Oklahoma Memorial, USS Utah Memorial, and Mooring Quays, making it one of the most visited shore excursions, especially for those docking in Honolulu Harbor.

 

Downtown Honolulu

Visit this historic and government center of Honolulu for a blend of history, culture, shopping, and dining experience. Downtown, explore the rich history and architecture of historic buildings, temples, and landmarks that showcase Hawaii's diverse heritage. Explore landmarks such as Lolani Palace, King Kamehameha Statue, and Hawaii State Capitol. Lastly, experience Hawaiian Arts & Culture at Hawaii Theatre Center, Honolulu Museum of Art, and Kawaianha'o Church.

 

Tongass National Forest

Visit the largest national forest in the United States, Tongass National Forest. This forest is a significant wildlife haven, especially for coastal brown bears and salmon. This forest is known for its stunning scenery, with its numerous glaciers and old-growth forests. The forest is also famous as a carbon sink, as it stores a vast amount of carbon dioxide, playing an impactful role in climate change. At this spot, travelers will have the opportunity for numerous recreational activities like hiking, fishing, bear viewing, and exploring the vast land. 

 

Honolulu Zoo

Home to over 1,230 animals, this zoo is a popular attraction in Waikiki where travelers can explore the unique blend of wildlife, conservation, and family-friendly activities. Here, visitors can explore the animal exhibits and see giraffes, zebras, and lions at African Savana, orangutans, tigers, and exotic birds at Asian and American Tropical Forests. Travelers can also attend special events and educational programs at Zoo camps, Night Zo tours, and Holiday and Seasonal Events.

 

Diamond Head

Known for its iconic Carter profile, breathtaking views, and history, Diamond Head is a popular hiking destination, a notable landmark, and a state monument. Visitors can go on popular hiking trails that lead to the summit, offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, Waikiki, and the surroundings. This spot is also ideal for picnics, photography, sightseeing, and witnessing breathtaking sunrises and sunsets. Visit this spot in the city to be one with nature.

The Best Time to Cruise to Honolulu

Waikiki Beach

Globally known for its stunning views, soft white sand, clear turquoise waters, and numerous water-based sports, Waikiki Beach is one of the best places to relax, unwind, and soak in some sun. This beach in the city offers numerous activities for visitors. Hike to Diamond Head for panoramic views, explore the beach on foot, and enjoy shopping, dining, and entertainment. The beach offers an excellent opportunity to partake in numerous water activities such as surfing, snorkeling, paddleboarding, kayaking, and swimming.

 

Pearl Harbor National Memorial

Visit this historic site commemorating the popular event of December 7, 1941, and the beginning of World War II. Explore the visitor center, featuring exhibit galleries including Road to War, explaining the events leading to the Great War, and Attack, displaying artifacts, photographs, and personal accounts of survivors. This historic site consists of the USS Arizona Memorial, USS Oklahoma Memorial, USS Utah Memorial, and Mooring Quays, making it one of the most visited shore excursions, especially for those docking in Honolulu Harbor.

 

Downtown Honolulu

Visit this historic and government center of Honolulu for a blend of history, culture, shopping, and dining experience. Downtown, explore the rich history and architecture of historic buildings, temples, and landmarks that showcase Hawaii's diverse heritage. Explore landmarks such as Lolani Palace, King Kamehameha Statue, and Hawaii State Capitol. Lastly, experience Hawaiian Arts & Culture at Hawaii Theatre Center, Honolulu Museum of Art, and Kawaianha'o Church.

 

Tongass National Forest

Visit the largest national forest in the United States, Tongass National Forest. This forest is a significant wildlife haven, especially for coastal brown bears and salmon. This forest is known for its stunning scenery, with its numerous glaciers and old-growth forests. The forest is also famous as a carbon sink, as it stores a vast amount of carbon dioxide, playing an impactful role in climate change. At this spot, travelers will have the opportunity for numerous recreational activities like hiking, fishing, bear viewing, and exploring the vast land. 

 

Honolulu Zoo

Home to over 1,230 animals, this zoo is a popular attraction in Waikiki where travelers can explore the unique blend of wildlife, conservation, and family-friendly activities. Here, visitors can explore the animal exhibits and see giraffes, zebras, and lions at African Savana, orangutans, tigers, and exotic birds at Asian and American Tropical Forests. Travelers can also attend special events and educational programs at Zoo camps, Night Zo tours, and Holiday and Seasonal Events.

 

Diamond Head

Known for its iconic Carter profile, breathtaking views, and history, Diamond Head is a popular hiking destination, a notable landmark, and a state monument. Visitors can go on popular hiking trails that lead to the summit, offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, Waikiki, and the surroundings. This spot is also ideal for picnics, photography, sightseeing, and witnessing breathtaking sunrises and sunsets. Visit this spot in the city to be one with nature.