Honolulu Map With The Top Attractions in and Around The City

Searching for a Honolulu map? You’ve come to the right place. Just a little while back I was searching for the exact same thing but couldn’t quite find what I was looking for.

When taking a look at a map of Oahu, I couldn’t help but notice how so many of the island’s most famous attractions are located either in or just nearby Honolulu. Being the capital of both Oahu and Hawaii, Honolulu is by far the biggest urban area in The Aloha State.

This got me thinking: most visitors to Oahu no doubt spend a lot of, if not most, of their time in Honolulu, and a compact map of Honolulu might be quite helpful.

So I decided to create a simple illustrated Honolulu map including some of the city’s most popular attractions, along with a couple really scenic spots you may not have heard of.

With that out of the way, let’s dive into the map and a collection of the top Honolulu attractions!

Illustrated Honolulu Map of Attractions

Illustrated Honolulu map with top Honolulu attractions markedMap of Honolulu, Hawaii, showcasing the top attractions in and around the city

Not Sure Where To Stay in Honolulu?

There are tons of accommodation options in the city. We've included 3 great options for you to choose from. You can't go wrong with any of these. They're all located close to a number of the main sights.

➡️Vive Hotel Waikiki ⭐⭐⭐ ($) – A modern boutique hotel just a short walk from Waikiki Beach, offering contemporary rooms and personalized service.

➡️Lotus Honolulu at Diamond Head ⭐⭐⭐⭐ ($$) – A serene hotel near Diamond Head, with tranquil surroundings.

➡️Halekulani ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ($$$) – A luxury beachfront resort in Waikiki, renowned for its elegant accommodations and proximity to upscale shopping and dining.

Cultural and Historical Attractions

Pearl Harbor National Memorial

Without a doubt, the Pearl Harbor memorial is the most well-known and possibly most popular historical attraction in Honolulu. Americans will no doubt know the memorial honors the history of World War II in the Pacific and specifically commemorates the events of December 7, 1941. It’s a place of reflection and remembrance.

Visiting both the Pearl Harbor museums and grounds requires no entrance fee. Another option is to visit through a guided tour for a more complete experience.

Pearl Harbor USS Arizona National Memorial in Honolulu, Hawaii

The Pearl Harbor USS Arizona Memorial tour below is one of the most popular choices. It includes being led by a guide to the visitor’s center, where you watch a short film and then explore exhibits related to the events of December 7, 1941. This tour also includes your boat trip to the site of the memorial.

If you’d prefer a more thorough tour including the Battleship Missouri, this one might be best for you:

‘Iolani Palace

View of the front of the 'Iolani Palace in Honolulu, located in the central area of the city as seen in the map of Honolulu.

Going a bit further back in time, the ‘Iolani Palace was completed in 1882 and was the former residence of Hawaii’s royals. King Kalakaua and Queen Lili’uokalani were the last monarchs to live in the opulent 10-room house until the monarchy came to an end in 1893.

Today, it’s one of Hawaii’s most prominent historic landmarks and its beautifully restored rooms provide a glimpse into the rich cultural history of Hawaii.

Tickets are needed to visit and can be purchased online from the official ‘Iolani Palace website.

Bishop Museum

For anyone interested in both Hawaiian and Polynesian history, the Bishop Museum is a must-visit. Completed in 1889, the museum is home to one of the most extensive collections of Polynesian artifacts in the world.

Some of the highlights include royal family heirlooms, ancient tools, canoes, and exhibits on Hawaii’s volcanic origins. There’s also an interactive Science Adventure Center, with exhibits all about Hawaii’s unique geology and marine life.

You’ll need general admission tickets to visit the museum through one of the scheduled daily guided tours.

Hiking Trails and Other Outdoor Attractions

Diamond Head Crater

View of Diamond Head Crater and Honolulu from the window of an airplaneThe kind of view you can expect when flying out of Honolulu...

One of Oahu’s most iconic landmarks, the Diamond Head Crater is instantly recognizable in aerial photos of Honolulu. The hike to the summit doesn’t take too long (it’s only 0.8 miles/1.3 km) but it is quite steep, climbing through tunnels and staircases.

It’s definitely worth it though, because once you reach the top you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of both the city and the Pacific Ocean. The best times to do the hike are early in the morning and in the evening, to avoid the crowds and high temperatures.

The crater was originally formed by a volcanic eruption over 300,000 years ago, and in addition to a great viewpoint, has served as a historic military site, with remnants of bunkers and coastal defense systems.

An entry fee of $5 is required for non-residents, as well as a parking fee ($10 per vehicle). Reservations are required and can be made online through the Hawaii State Parks website.

You could also go with the tour below which costs a bit more, and includes your entry fee and round-trip transport from Waikiki hotels.

Manoa Falls

Just outside the hustle and bustle of Honolulu, lies a lush rainforest where you can find Manoa Falls, a 150-foot/15-metre waterfall accessible via a short, pleasant hike. The 1.6-mile/2.5 km round-trip trail winds its way through Oahu’s native tropical vegetation, which is incredibly green year-round thanks to the high rainfall in the area.

The spectacular Manoa Falls in a lush rainforest just outside of the city on the Honolulu map

Keep in mind that the trail can be slippery at times so proper hiking boots are recommended. Also, swimming in the pool below the waterfall is discouraged because there is a risk of bacterial infections.

If you’re a big nature lover or photographer, Manoa Falls makes for a fantastic experience.

Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden

A quiet road in Honolulu's Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden

Another peaceful escape from the city is the Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden, seen in the northern part of the Honolulu map. It’s made up of 400 acres at the foot of the Koʻolau Mountains.

You can find plant species here from tropical places all over the world. The misty mountain backdrop adds to the serene atmosphere and makes this a really picturesque spot on Oahu, great for a relaxing stroll or picnic.

The garden is open from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm and admission is free.

Koko Crater Railway Trail

Honolulu’s Koko Crater Railway Trail is often called the “Stairmaster from Hell,” and for good reason. The trail in east Honolulu challenges hikers with more than 1,000 steep railway-tie steps leading to a now defunct military lookout. As you can imagine, the ascent is grueling, but you are duly rewarded with an unparalleled 360-degree view of Hanauma Bay, Oahu’s eastern shoreline, and beyond.

As with pretty much all hikes in Hawaii, this one is best tackled early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat.

If you’re able to make it to the top for sunrise, you’re in for a real treat!

Infographic comparing the best Hawaiian Islands to visit
Infographic comparing the best Hawaiian Islands to visit

Oahu is known for its vibrant culture and iconic landmarks, but...

If you're looking for something a little different, maybe fewer crowds or more diverse hiking landscapes, another island may be the better choice for you. Or, you could always visit more than one! Take a look at our Best Hawaiian Island guide to help you decide.

Koko Crater Botanical Garden

Within the actual crater of the extinct volcano, lies the Koko Crater Botanical Garden. The variety of plants found here is very different to those at the Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden. A unique collection of drought-resistant plants, including both native Hawaiian species and exotic cacti call this botanical garden home.

The 2-mile/3 km loop trail winds its way through dryland forests, colorful floral displays, and a range of cacti and succulents. If you’re a plant lover like me, you will really enjoy this off-the-beaten-path botanical garden. Admission is free.

Makapuʻu Lighthouse Trail

The Makapu'u Lighthouse viewed from the trail on the map of Honolulu

This is an easy, paved hike northeast of the Koko Crater Botanical Garden on the map of Honolulu above. It's a good choice for people of all skill levels.

The 2-mile/3 km round-trip walk takes you to a lookout point with exquisite views of the rugged cliffs and the red-roofed Makapuʻu Lighthouse after which the trail is named. If you’re visiting in the winter, you may be lucky enough to spot humpback whales just off the coast.

Beaches

Waikiki Beach

Sunset at Waikiki Beach, Oahu

No trip to Honolulu can be considered complete without experiencing Waikiki Beach. This world-famous stretch of golden sand is so much more than just a beautiful beach, and it sure is beautiful! The whole Waikiki district is the heart of Honolulu, with its high-rise hotels, surf schools, and beachfront bars.

If you want to go for a surfing lesson, lounge back under a palm tree, or enjoy a mai tai at sunset, Waikiki is the place to be. Yes, the beach can get crowded, but its lively atmosphere is part of the charm.

Ala Moana Center

A short 1.5-mile/2.5km walk from Waikiki and you’re suddenly at the Ala Moana Center, the largest open-air shopping mall in the world. I didn’t quite realize just how big this place was at the time.

Because it's an open-air mall, it feels as if you’re walking through a busy main street or high street. With over 350 stores ranging from high-end brands to Hawaiian boutiques, it's a major hub for both luxury and local shopping.

Now, personally, I’m not a big shopper, but spending some time here is totally worth it even if you’re allergic to shopping. They’ve got a great dining scene at Ala Moana, as well as live performances at Centerstage, and a direct walkway to the Ala Moana Beach Park, making it more than just a retail destination.

You can browse through the Ala Moana website for a full list of stores and restaurants.

Hanauma Bay

Hanauma Bay, known for its pristine marine life and excellent snorkeling, in Honolulu, Hawaii

Hanauma Bay is an important marine life conservation area, as well as a snorkeling paradise home to vibrant coral reefs and an abundant range of tropical fish. It was actually formed within a volcanic crater, and thanks to the bay’s calm waters, is an ideal spot for beginner snorkelers.

It is a protected area though, and visitors are required to watch an educational video before entering. The number of daily visitors is also limited to preserve the ecosystem. Remember that only reef-safe (mineral) sunscreens are allowed in Hawaii so that marine life is not harmed.

It’s worth arriving early to secure a spot, and note that the bay is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays for conservation work.

Lanikai Beach

View of Lanikai Beach, Oahu, one of the best beaches with clear water in the world

A few miles north of the city on the Honolulu map, is Lanikai Beach. This is quite possibly the most beautiful beach in the whole of Hawaii. With its powdery white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters, Lanikai is regularly ranked among the world’s best beaches.

The beach is located in the residential area of Kailua, so it’s a more tranquil alternative to Waikiki. The view of the two Mokulua Islands offshore adds to the beauty of this place.

It’s best to visit in the early morning for fewer crowds and truly breathtaking sunrises.

Kailua Beach

Aerial view of the Kailua coastline, just oustide of Honolulu, Oahu

Just a short drive from Lanikai, Kailua Beach boasts soft sand, gentle waves, and excellent conditions for kayaking and windsurfing. The Kailua Beach Park has facilities like restrooms, picnic tables, and food trucks, so it’s a great spot for a day-long beach outing. With its laid-back vibe and natural beauty, Kailua Beach is a local favorite.

Take a look at our guide to the best secluded Oahu beaches for more inspiration.

And that brings this article to an end! If you found this Honolulu map and list of attractions useful, feel free to bookmark this page. Of course there are far more places to visit in and around Honolulu, but this collection of 14 attractions is probably enough to keep anyone busy for not one, but two or maybe even three trips to Hawaii’s vibrant capital.

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