Things to Do in Honolulu

The only royal palace on U.S. soil offers docent-led or audio tours through Kalākaua’s gilded halls and Liliʻuokalani’s private rooms. Frequently recommended by The New York Times and Condé Nast Traveler, it’s run by a local nonprofit and open Tuesday–Saturday.

Hawaiʻi’s premier cultural and natural history museum showcases voyaging, mele, and science alongside lively planetarium programs like The Stars Tonight and Navigating by the Stars. Covered widely by local press and beloved by educators, it’s a deep dive into place.

Family-run since 1946, Helena’s serves classics like pipikaula, squid lūʻau, and lau lau that earned a James Beard Foundation America’s Classics award. Often cited by The New York Times and Hawaiʻi Magazine, it remains the benchmark for kamaʻāina comfort food.

Andrew Le’s family restaurant blends Vietnamese flavors with island ingredients and draws raves from Eater and Food & Wine. As reported by Honolulu Magazine and Hawaiʻi Public Radio, the Chinatown space closes Aug. 22, 2025 to relocate to Kaimukī this fall.

Ed Kenney’s Kaimukī spot reimagines local food with paʻiʻai, lūʻau-laced porchetta, and a playful brunch. A steady pick on Eater’s Essential Honolulu lists and praised by local critics, it’s as neighborhood as it gets—book for dinner or weekend brunch.

Since 1952, this family bakery has powered Honolulu mornings with hot malasadas filled with haupia or dobash. A perennial favorite in travel coverage and reader polls, Leonard’s keeps it simple and local—go early or expect a cheerful line.

Run by the Tamashiro family for decades, this bright-pink Kalihi landmark is famed for fresh, auction-sourced seafood and one of Honolulu’s widest poke selections. Frequently praised by Honolulu Magazine and Eater, it’s where locals shop for the real deal.

Operated by the Hawaiʻi Farm Bureau, this Saturday morning market pairs farmers with small food makers—an essential stop noted by Eater and local guides. Arrive at opening for peak produce, short lines, and breakfast-on-the-go under Lēʻahi.

Since 1955, this locally run beachboy outfit has taught generations to surf and led outrigger canoe rides—a tradition highlighted by Hawaii Magazine. It’s a cultural experience and pure fun; reserve a canoe run or lesson right on the sand.

A community hub for Hawaiian language, history, and contemporary writing, hosting talks and workshops in Chinatown’s arts district. Sister to Nā Mea Hawaiʻi in Ward, it’s often cited by local cultural guides and is staffed by people who truly know the books.

An intimate, hands-on luau at historic Nutridge Estate above town, with imu demos, stories, and a locally minded feast. Frequently lauded by travelers and editors for authenticity and small group size, it runs most evenings with sunset views.

This nonprofit incubator anchors First Friday with local exhibits, performances, and pop-ups. Frequently highlighted by Condé Nast Traveler and First Friday organizers, it’s where you meet artists, see new work, and feel Chinatown’s creative pulse.