There’s plenty to see and do in Hawaii’s capital. With much of it outdoors, it’s the perfect getaway. Make the most of your time here by putting these items on your to-do list. 

1. Waikiki Beaches

Perhaps the most popular draw to Honolulu, Waikiki is a neighborhood that’s full of beautiful beaches. Take your pick—any of them are perfectly lovely for sunbathing, paddle boarding, or surfing—and if you really want the vacation experience, book one of the many hotels right on the ocean.

2. Manoa Falls

Towering at 100 feet tall, this beautiful waterfall is a must-see when in Honolulu. You’ll have to hike there, but that’s half the fun—and the scenery along the way is just as picture-perfect as the falls.

3. Honolulu Museum of Art 

View this post on Instagram

Big news: HoMA will reopen to the public on Thursday, July 16! With our local community in mind, we're introducing new social distancing and safety measures, new evening hours on the weekends, and free admission to all Hawai‘i residents on Friday evenings through September 11. The HoMA Café will be open for dine-in service, and will offer grab-and-go menu items to be enjoyed in the museum's courtyards. And in case you haven’t yet experienced the landmark exhibition, we're thrilled to announce the extension of "30 Americans," featuring works by 30 renowned contemporary artists connected through their African American cultural history. The exhibition will will remain on view through September 6. To say it's a must-see is an understatement. We can't wait to welcome you back. More details at honolulumuseum.org, or at bit.ly/HoMAreopening.

A post shared by Honolulu Museum of Art (@honolulumuseum) on

Artwork may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Honolulu, but the collection here is worth a look. With works from native Hawaiian artists along with European, American, and Japanese pieces, there’s quite an impressive amount of art for those looking to get their culture fix in between beach trips.

4. Merriman’s

You’re sure to work up an appetite after all of your explorations, and Merriman’s is one of the best spots around for upscale meals like lobster pot pie, diver sea scallops, and macadamia nut-encrusted fish. Make sure to start things off with a Mai Tai cocktail–they’re famous for them here.

5. Water Sports

You can’t go to Hawaii and not try your hand at surfing, snorkeling, or diving. Well, you could, but you’d be missing out. Lessons and experiences are available at just about every area beach, including Kahanamoku and Kaimana.

6. Iolani Palace

History buffs will love this 19-century residence, the home of the Hawaiian monarchy until it was overthrown near the turn of the century. Guided and self tours are available to get a taste of how royalty lived back in the day.

7. Honolulu Zoo

Whether you have kids or you’re just young at heart, you’ll have a blast at the Honolulu Zoo. With many indigenous Hawaiian species, plus unique creatures like the Japanese Giant Salamander, Aardvark, and King Vultures, it’s a one-of-a-kind zoo experience.