Honolulu

Modern skyscrapers meet ancient volcanoes in Hawaii’s capital, where natural beauty, culture, and endless surprises await

Dive into Honolulu’s highlights to find a cosmopolitan capital city that pulses with a unique energy and is the perfect place to start a Pacific island adventure.

Morning.

On an early-morning walk along Ala Wai Canal you’ll see the sun rising over the majestic Ko‘olau Mountains, turning the glassy water a warm rainbow of reds and golds. The iconic silhouette of the long-extinct volcano Diamond Head, or Lē‘ahi, rises like a protective sentinel beyond. At Halekulani Bakery try the kouign amann – caramelized, buttery pastry parcels. Nibble on your heavenly pastry with your toes in the sands of this Oahu paradise.

Afternoon.

Marugame Udon is a casual spot serving housemade noodles with customizable tempura; the broths are rich, the noodles chewy, and the flavors bright. The line moves fast, so don’t be put off. Beat the tropical heat at Waiola Shave Ice. Order like a local: mochi balls, sweet azuki beans, vanilla ice cream, and condensed milk drizzled over the fluffiest shave ice.

Evening.

Watch the sun set behind Lē‘ahi from Morimoto Asia Waikīkī’s open-air patio overlooking shimmering water. It’s elevated but approachable, perfect for early dinner or happy hour. Catch ‘Auana, Cirque du Soleil’s new show inspired by native Hawaiian culture and island landscapes.

Morning.

Start the day with a sunrise private canoe experience. Book an outrigger canoe or catamaran ride and you might spot Hawaiian green sea turtles bobbing in the water or an endangered monk seal near a southern beach. When the sun is up, head to local creative hub Kaimukī, a destination for chefs and artists to converge. Brunch at Koko Head Cafe, led by local chef Lee Anne Wong, is unforgettable. Try cornflake French toast (sweet bread crusted in cornflakes with candied bacon and gelato) or the savory don buri chen – five-spice pork belly, miso chicharron, scrambled eggs, sushi rice, and pickles. Book a lei-making class at high-end lifestyle store Island-Boy, and browse Red Pineapple, a relaxed boutique where island style meets urban chic with ocean-inspired jewelry, botanical perfumes, handmade prints, and elegant small-batch gifts.

Afternoon.

Venture east through the Ko‘olau Mountain jungles to the lush windward side. The Lanikai Pillbox Hike offers a short trek to panoramic views of turquoise Lanikai Beach and the twin Mokulua Islands.

Evening.

Step back into old Hawaii with retro charm and island classics at Buzz’s Original Steak House near the beach. 
Order steak or fresh fish – and definitely a mai tai.

Morning.

Stay close to Waikīkī with breakfast at Lulu’s, where the vibe is casual and tables are open-air with water views. Go all out with poke and banana mochi pancakes (made with chewy mochi flour) topped with coconut haupia syrup, a must-try Hawaiian delicacy.

Afternoon.

Perched on a rocky outcrop by the sea, Shangri La, the former estate of heiress Doris Duke, houses a deeply personal yet museum-grade collection of thousands of pieces spanning centuries. This museum of Islamic art and architecture sits amid tranquil pools, tiled courtyards, and unforgettable ocean views.

Evening.

The vibrant neighborhood of Kaka‘ako is where warehouses become galleries and murals bloom overnight in a  blend of art, food, and design. The sweet treats at Lonohana Estate Chocolate are not to be missed and you can shop for stylish accessories at Jana Lam Hawaii. Sip a sunset cocktail on the lawn at House Without A Key, where the century-old kiawe tree frames local musicians and hula dancers. End the day sampling the fine-dining seafood menu at UMI by Vikram Garg, an award-winning chef who has created a love letter to the sea, with thoughtful flavors and elegant presentation.