Honolulu is a vibrant tropical capital and the first place in Hawaii where travelers arrive. And as always, tourists are wondering where to go and what to see within Honolulu. You will probably immediately think of the world-famous Waikiki, but the list of what Hawaii has to offer is much wider. The main thing is to choose the right way to explore it.
For example, you can rent a Jeep and drive around the island at your own pace, finding amazing sights along the way. Jeep rentals Honolulu make it possible to go wherever you want. Plus, it’s very cheap to rent a Jeep.
Yes, you will find many unique attractions in Honolulu if you have a car on hand. And if you still don’t know what to see when you arrive in Hawaii, check out our short but informative guide.
Honolulu Zoo
151 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816
The zoo is one of the main attractions of Honolulu. It’s home to over 1,500 animals from different habitats – from tropical rainforests to the African savannah. Komodo dragons and, of course, numerous monkeys are a special pleasure for the kids. Sumatran tigers are also very popular.
In addition to popularizing animals, the zoo also functions as a research center. Its second task is conservating and reproducing rare and endangered animals. Now, 28 species of rare animals live and breed in the zoo. Admission is $14 for adults and $10 for kids.
Pearl Harbor
Waipio Point Access Road, Honolulu, HI 96818
Probably many have seen the Hollywood blockbuster called Pearl Harbor. It tells about the tragedy that occurred at the naval base and allows you to imagine what happened in this place many years ago. This crushing defeat forced the American government to fight the Nazis and their allies more decisively.
Yes, this was a difficult moment in the history of Hawaii, and you can pay tribute to those events. Therefore, be sure to visit the USS Arizona Battleship Memorial to honor the memory of the sailors who died during World War II and touch the great American history. Admission is free.
Waikiki Aquarium
2777 Kalakaua Avenue Honolulu, HI 96815, United States
Waikiki Aquarium recently celebrated its centenary. On a relatively small area, it hosts at least 500 species of all kinds of Pacific flora and fauna. Here you can explore a huge coral reef with all its inhabitants – fish, huge octopuses, terrible sharks, giant sea turtles, and other marine creatures.
The price of an entrance ticket for adults is $9, while a single ticket for 5-12-year-old kids is $2. Children under 4 years old have free access.
Iolani Palace
364 South King Street, Honolulu, HI 96804
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Appeared in the middle of the 19th century, this marvelous building is considered to be the only royal palace in the entire United States. The king lived there with his family many years ago.
Unlike striking in their wealth and grandeur European palaces, the Hawaiian palace doesn’t shine with special sophistication and overwhelm with its size. Instead, it looks rather modest. After the overthrow of the monarchy, the island government stayed in the building and made fateful decisions for 80 years. Since 1978, the authorities allowed ordinary tourists to access the emperor’s chambers.
Diamond Head Volcano Crater
Diamond Head Road, Honolulu, HI 96815
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The crater of the dormant volcano is undoubtedly the hallmark of Honolulu. According to scientists, the last volcanic eruption took place about 150,000 years ago, and, nevertheless, no one guarantees that the eruption will not happen again.
Around the perimeter of the giant crater, you will find viewing platforms that offer breathtaking panoramas of the city and its wonderful surroundings. If you go up to the crater by car, then you will have to pay $5, if on foot – $1. For an additional fee, the guides will show you the place where once the bloodthirsty locals sacrificed their fellow tribesmen.
Waikiki Beach
2335 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu
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Almost every visitor to Honolulu hurries to visit this beach after checking in a hotel. So, it’s impossible not to mention Waikiki when talking about Hawaii. It starts just outside the city limits and represents a three-mile strip of the cleanest sandy beaches on the shores of the well-heated Pacific Ocean. If you suddenly get tired of basking under the gentle sun, take up a more active holiday. For example, you can rent scuba gear to get to know the local inhabitants of the deep sea, or a surfboard to ride the wave.
As Hawaii’s largest city, Honolulu has a lot to offer travelers. The list of its attractions is quite wide. It includes many natural, architectural, historical sites, and entertainment venues. So, plan your vacation soon and see you in Hawaii!
