Things To Do
Pearl Harbor National Memorial
At the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, learn about one of the most pivotal moments in US history: the attack on Pearl Harbor, and the subsequent entry of the United States into World War II.
Bishop Museum
Bishop Museum was founded in 1889 by Charles Reed Bishop in honor of his late wife, Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop, the last descendant of the royal Kamehameha family. The Museum was established to house the extensive collection of Hawaiian objects and royal family heirlooms of the Princess, and has expanded to include millions of objects, documents and photographs about Hawai‘i and other Pacific island cultures. Today, Bishop Museum is the largest museum in the state and the premier natural and cultural history institution in the Pacific, recognized throughout the world for its cultural collections, research projects, consulting services and public educational programs. It also has one of the largest natural history specimen collections in the world. Serving and representing the interests of Native Hawaiians is a primary purpose of the Museum.
Koko Head Hike
Steep, no-shade, climb to the top of Koko Head Crater that includes spectacular panoramic views of the east Honolulu shoreline, Hanauma Bay, and parts of Moloka'i. The 1,000+ step walking track consists of abandoned railroad ties that run along the crater's west side to the top of Koko Crater. The military used them previously during World War 2 as part of an incline tram to transport supplies to a lookout post at the summit. Halfway up, there is a "bridge" portion without ground beneath ~50 rail steps, but there is bypassing trail if you're scared. Just a short drive from Diamond Head and Waikiki, this popular hiking trail can be accessed at Koko Head. Bring water since this is a prime area for humidity and hot summer days. Visitors might also be interested in the Koko Crater Botanical Garden which can be accessed inside the crater. Visitors can drive around the crater to the opposite side to access the gardens.
Polynesian Cultural Center
Explore the rich heritage of the Pacific Islands. Wander through 42 acres of tropical splendor and enjoy the adventure of traditional hands-on activities. Dine like royalty at an authentic Polynesian lūʻau and top it off with the most spectacular evening show in the islands.
Kaneohe Sandbar
As the soothing sounds of live Hawaiian music fills the air, get ready for a Kaneohe Bay sandbar experience like no other. You will embark on a smooth sailing catamaran that will take you to one of the best spots on the Kaneohe Bay sandbar, and as the only full-size service ocean activity operator in the area, you can enjoy a wide array of activities including snorkeling, kayaking, and stand-up paddling, as well as upgraded adventure options like banana boat and bumper tube rides. These waters are filled with tropical fish, manta rays, and other sea creatures, and whether you decide to dive in or simply relax on the lounge, there is something for everyone!
Morimoto Asia Waikiki
One of our favorite restaurants in Waikiki. Great for a sunset dinner. We highly recommend the sticky ribs!
Manoa Falls Trail
A short hike to the base of Manoa Falls in the Manoa Valley in Honolulu, Oahu, the Manoa Falls Trail winds through a lush Hawaiian tropical rainforest filled with movie scene locations from Jurassic Park and LOST. The trail can be quite muddy, so proper closed toe footwear is recommended. Unfortunately, swimming is not allowed in the pool at the base of the waterfall but the views alone justify this easy hike. This area receives significant rainfall so check the weather before going to avoid flash floods. The trailhead is a short drive from downtown Honolulu and can be accessed at the end of Manoa Road. There is a fee to park. Visitors might also be interested in the nearby Lyon Arboretum and Botanical Garden which preserves endangered Hawaiian plant species.
Makapu‘u Point Lighthouse Trail
The Makapu'u Point trail, within Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline, offers outstanding views of Oahu's southeastern coastline, including Koko Head and Koko Crater. From the trail's destination at Makapu'u Head, hikers are rewarded with magnificent views of the windward coast and offshore islets, as well as the historic red-roofed Makapu'u Lighthouse built in 1909, which makes a stunning picture against the deep blue sea below (the lighthouse itself is off-limits). On a clear day, you may even see Molokai and Lanai. The offshore islets are wildlife sanctuaries for Hawaiian seabirds, such as the iwa, frigatebird, and tropicbird. This trail is an excellent place to view migrating humpback whales in season (November-May). Binoculars are suggested for viewing the whales and seabirds. A viewing scope and interpretive sign along the trail will help you view and identify the whales seen from this location.
Kalama Beach Park
Kalama's is a beautiful, classic tropical feeling beach near Kailua Beach Park in Kailua with fine powdery white sand. Kalama's gentle waves make it a great beach for beginner surfers and body boarders, and you won't find the same crowds here as you will at Kalama's neighboring beach, Kailua.
Sherwood Beach
Sherwood Beach is located in the town of Waimanalo about a 30-minute drive from Waikiki. This beach is known for its natural beauty, soft golden sands, and clear turquoise waters. The shore break is steeper here than in Kailua Bay making conditions more challenging. However, these same conditions are great for body boarding or body surfing! Access to Sherwood Beach is easy with three parking areas and two bathrooms with showers. It can get crowded on weekends and holidays, but you can simply walk 5 minutes up the beach towards Kailua for your own space.