What to do in Honolulu?

Hi there, What are some great tips for things to do in Honolulu? Thanks, Mich74

Hi Michel,

You can rent a car to drive around the island—it’s gorgeous, with stunning beaches and the most amazing waves I’ve ever seen. But there aren’t any nice cafés or restaurants to stop and eat. It’s better to do what the Americans do and bring your own picnic—there are plenty of great spots for that. Don’t miss a walk along Waikiki Beach. There’s also an American museum about the Pearl Harbor attack (which I didn’t visit) and Diamond Head, which is very popular with tourists. And I’m sure there’s plenty more—I’m just sharing my memories.

Hi Catherine, Thanks for your reply. Renting a car to tour the island with 8 people might not be too easy. We’ve got Pearl Harbor planned, and Waikiki, of course. We’re also heading to other islands—Hilo, Maui, Nawiliwili—maybe there’ll be lava flows.

If there are 8 of you, you can rent a suitable vehicle, like a minibus or a large car—that’s what we did when we were a big group too (12 of us), and we took 2 vehicles.

Depending on the company you go with, you might get to see lava flowing into the sea. I know HAL used to do that at one point, but I’m not sure if they still do.

For the other islands, we found local tour operators.

It's with NCL (Norwegian Cruise Line) with a free day in Honolulu on arrival and departure the next day.

Awesome! Hawaii is really great—I hope you’re staying a while before heading back?

No, after a few islands over there, we're heading back to France. The stay will happen before the cruise in the Leeward Islands 😉

It's gonna be a really nice cruise. 😎

Yeah, I think so too it’s so beautiful there

hi Mich

so I’ve got a little spot that’s surprising but fascinating... the Punchbowl Cemetery... located at the top of an old volcano just outside Honolulu. There’s a small hut at the entrance with war "heroes"’ portraits and their acts of bravery... and wow, the determination some of these guys had is really impressive!

It’s a beautiful place that makes you think... way less known than Pearl Harbor, of course... but Pearl Harbor is definitely a must-do too :)

Otherwise, Waikiki Beach and Honolulu just aren’t the kind of America I like... I preferred my stay in Kona on the Big Island a hundred times over ;-)

have a great trip

Hi there Thanks for your reply and the great tips! Mich74