Hawaii is a good destination for having a relaxing holiday. It is low key, easy to get around and plenty of hotel options. There is still plenty to do though, so visitors should not think that they will get bored easily.

We chose to stay in the Trump International Hotel, just one street back from the beach. The hotel is outstanding, the rooms are spacious and well appointed and the staff are very friendly and welcoming. I know that visitors may well want something along the beachfront, but we would highly recommend this hotel.

One of the most iconic landmarks in Honolulu is the Royal Hawaiian Hotel (or the Pink Palace as some call it). You can wander through the hotel and check it out, but if you are tempted to dive into their beautiful pool it is for hotel guests only.

Take a visit to the Ala Moana Centre if you enjoy shopping. It is not too far from the major hotel area, and is the largest shopping centre in Hawaii. According to their website there are 358 stores of varying kinds, but I can assure you we have not been to every one of them. However, the shopping has always been good and they do have some great specials on a regular basis.

We did not pack a lot into our stay in Honolulu, but took advantage of the warm waters of the Pacific Ocean, and generally wandered around the shops. But, if you have not visited Honolulu before then there are some good attractions.

Travel Tips

  • Choose a hotel close to the beachfront if possible. You will enjoy being able to wander down to enjoy a swim, or sit at one of the many bars watching the sunset.
  • Take your snorkelling gear if you have some. When we swam in the ocean there were several large turtles swimming around.

Travel Alerts

  • We find Hawaii a very safe destination, so we have no travel alerts to share.

Travel Adventures

  • Pearl Harbour Aviation Museum – there are several tour options depending on what you wish to see, so best check out the website for the tour that suits you best.
  • Honolulu Beerworks – a little bit away from the centre of things, but if you enjoy craft beers you will enjoy a few hours at the beerworks.
  • National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific
  • Polynesian Cultural Centre – this is certainly worth a visit and there are several options to choose from.
  • Visit the Duke Kahanamoku memorial – the legendary father of modern surfing, his memorial is located on Waikiki Beach.
  • Diamond Head – for those who enjoy hiking and for those who are looking for some great shots overlooking Honolulu, you will enjoy a day at Diamond Head.
  • Snorkel at Hanauma Bay – a popular nature reserve on the southeast coast of the island. But it is a busy tourist spot so don’t be surprised at the number of swimmers. It takes about 1/2 hour to get there from Honolulu.