The majority of travellers tend to gravitate towards Waikiki. This is where you will find many of Hawaii’s iconic stretches of sand, hotels, dining and nightlife. If you have little ones in tow, Diamond Head is well suited to families and offers plenty of family-friendly activities including the zoo and aquarium. Culture seekers will love Downtown and if you’re keen for a little retail therapy, Ala Moana is a shopper’s paradise.

Generally speaking lightweight clothing, a rain jacket for those unpredictable showers, comfortable shoes and swimmers will serve you well in Honolulu. Throw in a couple of party shirts and glamorous island ‘fits for bonus points and if you’re planning on doing some snorkelling, consider packing a pair of reef shoes.

Coming to Honalulu and not spending some time on Waikiki Beach would be like visiting Paris and skipping the Eiffel Tower. Honolulu Zoo is a popular attraction for visitors, as is climbing Diamond Head. Downtown Honolulu is great for getting your culture fix and no trip to Hawaii is complete without a trip to visit the Pearl Harbor National Memorial.

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Unless you’re keen to spend your entire vacation sipping cocktails by the pool (no judgement here, that sounds delightful), you will need a car. Waikiki is fairly walkable and there are some public transport options available, however if you’re keen to get out exploring, your own wheels are essential. Just be sure to check the T&C’s as there are some places that are on the no-go list.

The good news is that Hawaii enjoys year-round sunshine, so there’s really no bad time to visit. The high season stretches from December to April, and again from June to August, so expect it to be busy. For slightly less crowded beaches, aim for the shoulder season from November to December.

The beauty of a Honolulu vacation is that you can do as much or as little as you like. You could spend your entire vacation sipping cocktails by the pool, if you wish. Those who are keen to get out and about can check out the Pearl Harbour Memorial, hike to the top of Diamond Head for spectacular views over the island, get up close with animals of all kinds at Honolulu Zoo, snorkel, learn to surf, eat your way around the island – the options are endless!

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