Here’s a collection of must-see spots in Honolulu on Oahu—from sightseeing and local eats to shopping and spiritual power spots.
This area is packed with places that are easy to access and absolutely worth visiting at least once!
Along with the famous landmarks, you’ll also find some lesser-known hidden gems, so there’s no shortage of things to discover.
Everything is listed in alphabetical order, so you can easily browse the table of contents to find places you want to visit or activities you’re interested in.
Popular Tourist Spots in Honolulu, Oahu
One of the biggest features of Honolulu is that many well-known attractions are located within a relatively close distance of each other!
In particular, the city has many important sites where you can learn about Hawaii’s history and culture, making indoor activities especially popular here.
Honolulu Museum of Art
The Honolulu Museum of Art is often called one of the most beautiful museums in the United States.
As an iconic Hawaiian museum, it houses around 50,000 works, including Monet’s Water Lilies and Picasso’s Cubist pieces, which are especially popular with visitors from Japan.
It began when Mrs. Charles Cook opened her private art collection to the public; today the museum is recognized as a historically significant building by the state of Hawaii.
The grounds include several gardens inspired by world landscapes, creating an exotic atmosphere that can make you forget you’re in Hawaii.
The beaches and shopping are great, but visiting places that reveal local culture and history is also a rewarding way to travel.
It may not be on many travelers’ must-see lists, but it’s a surprisingly impressive spot well worth a visit.
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Pali Lookout
Pali Lookout is one of Oahu’s top scenic viewpoints.
It’s a place that strongly reminds you that the Hawaiian Islands were formed by volcanoes!
Its official name is the Nuuanu Pali State Wayside lookout.
From the cliffside viewpoint you look down at the East Coast towns of Kailua and Kaneohe.
On clear days you can even see the neighboring island of Molokai.
The wind that blows at this lookout, whose name in Hawaiian means “cool cliff of the highlands,” is often so strong it feels like you’re leaning against a wall.
Even in summer there are many days when it feels cold, so I recommend bringing a light layer.
It’s an easy spot to stop by, so be sure to go see the spectacular view!
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The Kahala Hotel & Resort
The Kahala Hotel & Resort, a top-tier Hawaiian hotel favored by celebrities.
Located in the exclusive Kahala residential area, it is a hotel where numerous dignitaries—kings, presidents, prime ministers—as well as celebrities stay.
The lobby features a large chandelier, luxurious furnishings, and elegant displays from high-end brands.
Facilities are extensive, including a dolphin lagoon, a souvenir shop selling macadamia nut chocolates, and well-known restaurants such as Arancino and Plumeria Beach House.
Even if you are not staying here, you can tour the property, making it a pleasant sightseeing spot.
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Popular Eats in Honolulu, Oahu
Honolulu, the most populated area on Oahu, is also the island’s biggest food destination!
From famous restaurants to hidden local spots serving casual bites, you’ll find a wide variety of places to choose from—no matter what kind of food you’re in the mood for.
Popular Shopping Spots in Honolulu, Oahu
Honolulu is home to Hawaii’s largest shopping malls and farmers markets!
From souvenirs and Hawaii-exclusive items to brand-name goods, this area has just about anything you’re looking for.
Tamashiro Market
Tamashiro Market is a long-established supermarket where you can find some of the freshest seafood in Hawaii.
They pride themselves on freshness, even air-shipping lobsters and crabs directly from the US mainland to ensure top quality!
For their daily fish supply they use unique long-standing sourcing routes, not only buying from the wholesale market at Hawaii’s ports but also purchasing directly from local fishermen.
Whether it’s simple plate lunches or a wide variety of ingredients for cooking, everything is exceptionally fresh—the kind of quality that’s hard to find elsewhere in Hawaii.
It’s a bit off the beaten path, but the pink building and large crab sign make it easy to spot, so be sure to make the trip.
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Spiritual Power Spots in Honolulu, Oahu
Although not widely known, Honolulu has many hidden natural areas scattered throughout the region.
They’re relatively easy to access, and you’ll find plenty of spots that are surprisingly moving and well worth a visit.