Honolulu, United States

Honolulu sits roughly equidistant from the US mainland and much of East Asia, which has long made it a practical refueling and meeting point across the Pacific, alongside its own considerable beach and volcanic scenery. Waikiki's dense hotel strip contrasts with quieter, more local neighborhoods just outside it.

Top attractions

• •Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head crater, a short hike above the city
• •Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial
• •The Bishop Museum for Hawaiian history and culture
• •Hanauma Bay for snorkeling (reservations required, with a visitor cap)
• •The Ala Moana Center and adjacent beach park

Practical tips

• •Honolulu's Skyline rail now reaches a station beside the airport terminals (HNL), though it doesn't yet extend to Waikiki — a bus or taxi covers the last stretch into town.
• •Hawaii has its own strong customs around respecting the land and culture — treat sacred sites and local etiquette with real care, not just as photo backdrops.
• •Reef-safe sunscreen is required at some protected snorkeling and swimming spots, including Hanauma Bay.

Frequently asked questions