A bustling tropical city dominated by swish skyscrapers and a thriving business district, Honolulu is an excellent destination for a lively city break, complete with buzzing nightlife, hip bars and fantastic eateries. Surrounded by lush mountains, Hawaii's biggest city is a popular pick for the start or end of many a Hawaiian adventure, and it’s a wonderful place to get a sense of the islands’ character. Accommodation options are wide-ranging, with chic city hotels, self-catering spots and beautiful resorts set along picturesque Waikiki Beach.
Begin your cultural explorations at ‘Iolani Palace, the only royal palace in the USA, before venturing to Bishop Museum, the Hawaii State Art Museum, Honolulu Museum of Art and the USS Arizona Memorial. Families will love the Honolulu Zoo and ambling through Queen Kapiolani Park. Ala Moana, the largest open-air shopping centre in the world, is great for a stroll, whilst the markets of Chinatown are a particular favourite of ours. Quirky little alleys where traders from across the globe once congregated are now home to artsy bars and an edgy evening scene.
If you’re dreaming of an expansive beach resort with heaps of activities, top-notch facilities and glamorous guest rooms, Waikiki Beach is the perfect choice. A huge expanse of golden sand framed by the ancient volcanic crater of Diamond Head at one end, the beach is also ideal for an early morning or evening surf or outrigger canoe trip.
For a more tranquil beach escape, venture across to the other side of Diamond Head, where there are fewer visitors and an abundance of spectacular scenery. Beyond the city centre, there are myriad hiking trails in Oahu's verdant mountains, lush flora at the Lyon Arboretum and amazing views from Pu’u ‘Ualala’a State Wayside Park. Many of Oahu’s volcanic craters and gullies are now superb diving sites — including Hanauma Bay. Don’t miss the chance to experience the region’s many wonders, both on land and at sea.
The best places to stay in Honolulu book up quickly during the school holidays in July and August, as well as over Christmas and New Year. Do organise your trip well in advance to guarantee a room at your top spot!
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Honolulu (Oahu)
A 1960s Hawaii vintage style boutique hotel, just 5 minutes from Waikiki Beach. Rooms are spacious and luxury with local eclectic artworks, ceiling fans, private balconies and walk-in showers. Lounge by the pool in a cabana and sip on creative cocktails. The restaurant serves delicious local fare.
Honolulu (Oahu)
A vibrant hotel set in Oahu's South Shore. Interiors champion a fresh, modern feel with colourful decor and cute Hawaiian touches — think surfboard style headboards and tropical flowers. All-day restaurant offers poke bowls plus there's a poolside speakeasy. A cool stay with a chic beachside vibe.
Honolulu (Oahu)
A contemporary boutique hotel, just 5 minutes from Waikiki beach. Spacious and contemporary rooms filled with creative artworks, stunning ocean views from private balconies and walk-in showers. Enjoy delicious Korean fare, relax by the pool in a private cabana and sip on innovative cocktails.
Honolulu (Oahu)
This chic hotel is nestled on the edge of Kapiolani Park, steps from spectacular Waikiki Beach. Guestrooms have traditional Hawaiian furniture in pastel palettes and regional art. The hotel's sleek swimming pool boasts unobstructed views of Diamond Head, the perfect place to rest and rejuvenate.
Honolulu (Oahu)
Contemporary beach resort with a lively Copacabana party-feel. Ocean views abound from the infinity pool, restaurants and room balconies. Interiors are fresh with clean lines, blonde woods and calming cream palette. The relaxed but upscale vibe suits sociable couples and families in equal measure.
Honolulu (Oahu)
High rise resort and contemporary luxury inside. Rooms are light, fully equipped with some offering sea views. Handful of restaurants, four bars, two spas and a nightclub when the day of relaxing is over. The perfect destination for a city breaks in the heart of Hawaii's capital.
Honolulu (Oahu)
Five star luxury in an unbeatable location on Waikiki Beach, overlooking Diamond Head. Rooms are contemporary, large and well equipped. Award winning restaurants on site offer a variety of cuisines & all feature locally sourced produce. Ideal for an active beach break, with city benefits too!
Honolulu (Oahu)
A five-star resort set in a discrete spot on a stretch of white sand beach. Well-appointed rooms have all the luxury trimmings - clean modern design, chaise longues, bathtubs, and goose-down duvets. Three restaurants offer up some serious fine-dining plus there's a spa and host of activities.
Honolulu (Oahu)
A luxury family-friendly resort, set in the glamorous neighbourhood of Waikiki Beach. Spacious and chic rooms with incredible views of the ocean and marble bathrooms. Indulge in Hawaiian spa treatments and relax by the rooftop infinity pool. Don't miss the one-of-a-kind Japanese tasting-menu.
