A Weekend in Paradise: Honolulu Travel Guide
Experience paradise in Honolulu, where every day feels like a dream.
22 April 2023
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
Honolulu is a paradise for tourists with its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and warm weather. Visitors can soak up the Hawaiian culture by taking hula dance lessons, watching a traditional luau, or indulging in local cuisine such as poke and shave ice. The city also offers numerous attractions like the Pearl Harbor memorial, the Diamond Head hike, and the famous Waikiki Beach.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information
- Stay at: The Surfjack Hotel and Swim Club a boutique hotel with a retro-chic aesthetic, featuring a pool and restaurant.
- Start your day at Waikiki Beach, soak up the sun, try your hand at surfing, or simply take a dip in the ocean.
- Grab lunch at Marukame Udon for freshly made noodles, tempura and musubi in a fun atmosphere.
- Head to Ala Moana Center for some retail therapy the largest mall in Hawaii with over 350 shops, restaurants and a farmers market.
- Enjoy dinner at House Without a Key, located in the iconic Halekulani Hotel a beachside setting with live music and hula dancers.
- End your night at Duke's Waikiki, a lively bar and restaurant with ocean views and tropical drinks.
- Start your day at Diamond Head State Monument a scenic trail hike through a historic crater with panoramic views of Honolulu.
- Grab breakfast at Koko Head Cafe, known for delicious brunch and bold flavors.
- Visit Pearl Harbor and USS Arizona Memorial, a poignant tribute to those lost during the Pearl Harbor attack.
- Walk through Iolani Palace, the only royal palace in the United States, and learn about Hawaiian history.
- End your day with a sunset cocktail at the famous Mai Tai Bar on Waikiki Beach, with views of Diamond Head and the ocean.
- Honolulu is a city filled with culture, history, and natural beauty. You'll find something for everyone, whether you're a beach bum or history buff. With two days in Honolulu, you can enjoy a perfect blend of both.
Length of stay
Type of trip
How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Honolulu, United States by plane is to fly to Honolulu International Airport (HNL) from major airports such as Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), San Francisco International Airport (SFO), or Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA).
Car
The best way to get to Honolulu is by renting a car on arrival at Honolulu International Airport (HNL). Public transport is not widely available and a car is the most convenient way to access the main tourist areas.
Train
There are no train services that connect to Honolulu as it is an island and does not have a railway system.
Boat
The best way to get to Honolulu by boat is to take a cruise from the mainland United States or other international ports. Several major cruise liners, such as Royal Caribbean International, offer services to Honolulu Port.
Bus
There is no bus service that connects to Honolulu as it is an island and does not have any road connections.