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 Waterfront Shopping & Dining |
1 Aloha Tower Dr Downtown Waterfront Honolulu, HI 96813 United States +1 808 528 5700 / +1 808 566 2337 http://www.alohatower.com info@alohatower.com |
Since 1925 this tower has welcomed people of all nations to Honolulu. It's an imposing structure, nearly 200 feet tall, but its Spanish architecture and bronze embellishments make it much more attractive than the average skyscraper. The wonderful Aloha Tower Marketplace is open daily. Located on Honolulu's historic waterfront, this unique open-air festival marketplace offers over 70 distinctive shops, award-winning restaurants and free nightly entertainment. For shopping, check out Crazy Fish, Black Pearl Gallery, Out of the West, Pipe Dreams, Stone Gear, and Mag-Neat-O. For food/snacks, check out Chai's Island Bistro, Don Ho's Island Grill, Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurant, Hong Kong Harbour View Seafood Restaurant, and Bad Ass Coffee Company. Indulge in exquisite island cuisine from the simple to the sublime including steak and seafood, Italian, Mexican, Japanese, Chinese, and Pacific Rim specialties. Find the perfect gift from the vast array of stores offering island treasures, such as Kona coffee, koa wood accessories, local artwork, jewelry, furnishings, and apparel for the whole family. Free historical tours offered in Japanese and English. The tower is located next to the Hawaii Maritime Museum. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: 808Talk.com |
 Photo: Paul and Shelly |
 Historic battleship from WWII |
Pearl Harbor (P.O. Box 6339) Honolulu, HI 96818 United States +1 808 973 2494 http://www.ussmissouri.com/ bigmo@ussmissouri.org |
Stand on the deck of this imposing old structure that has been painstakingly cared for and extensively renovated. The "Mighty Mo" is where General Douglas MacArthur proclaimed the end of World War II in September of 1945 in Tokyo Bay. The great vintage battleship now sits at permanent anchor across from the Arizona Memorial in Pearl Harbor. Admission: USD16 Adults, USD7 Children ages 4-12. Adult admission for guided tours starts at USD22. Visit the Arizona Memorial first to get a sense of the complete story. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Harley Brown |
 Photo: Julie McNeil |
 Photo: Skyring |
 Museum of Honolulu |
1525 Bernice Street Honolulu, HI 96817 United States +1 808 847 3511 http://www.bishopmuseum.org membership@bishopmuseum.org |
This museum provides a fascinating look into Hawaii's colorful past. Founded in 1889 by Charles Reed Bishop for his wife, the last descendant of the Kamehameha family, the museum has multiple permanent and special exhibits. From diverse subjects including Hawaiian royalty to hands on science exhibits to contemporary works by native American artists, it contains an array of artifacts. Guided tours and presentations are offered in English and Japanese daily. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Leslie Kalohi |
 Photo: `Ilikini |
 Photo: F.Chin/triscribe.com |
 Photo: tomusan |
 Photo: meredith anderson  |
 Photo: liz_leipzig |
 Photo: Charles O'Rourke |
 Photo: Brittany Bounds |
 Photo: Carlo T Gomez |
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Memorial to WWII submarines |
11 Arizona Memorial Drive Honolulu, HI 96818 United States +1 808 423 1341 http://www.bowfin.org/ info@bowfin.org |
This Pearl Harbor memorial park is dedicated to World War II submarines and their valiant crews. The park takes its name from a particularly distinguished sub, the USS Bowfin SS-287. Tour the narrow corridors and compartments where the crew worked, ate, and slept on nine hazardous missions. In addition to the Bowfin exhibit, there is a waterfront memorial. Also visit the Battleship Arizona and Missouri memorials. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
 Island-style cooking |
1 Aloha Tower Dr (Aloha Tower Marketplace) Honolulu, HI 96813 United States +1 808 585 0011 http://www.chaisislandbistro.com/ chai@chaisislandbistro.com |
Fresh seafood and produce are prepared with Pacific Rim flair at this waterfront gem located at Aloha Tower Marketplace. The Asian-style Osso Bucco with Kabocha Pumpkin is truly a culinary work of fusion art. You will not go wrong with the Bistro Bouillabaisse, the house specialty. For an appetizer, try the Kataifi and Macadamia Nut Encrusted Jumbo Black Tiger Prawns. As day turns into evening, some of the most famous names in Hawaiian music set up a tiny stage on the restaurant courtyard. The haunting harmonies of their voices float away into the Hawaiian dusk, bringing a feeling of peace to anyone lucky enough to be here for it. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Donna S Nakasue |
 The best of the newest |
91-1111 Geiger Rd Honolulu, HI 96706 United States +1 808 441 4653 |
When Coral Creek opened, Golf Digest named it one of Americas best new courses. Located on the Ewa Plain, it showcases some of Hawaii's most breathtaking natural wonders. Take a moment to notice the coral rock formations which are exposed on land and in the many lakes. The entire course is divided into flower neighborhoods, each of which feature a different color of tropical blooms. With a par-72 rating, the course is difficult but not impossible. A large driving range, expansive putting green and several practice bunkers round out the sport facilities. For post-game relaxation, check out the restaurant or browse the Pro Shop. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Hike a volcanic crater |
Diamond Head Road and 18th Avenue Honolulu, HI 96815 United States +1 808 587 0285 (State Parks) http://www.hawaii.gov/dlnr/dsp... |
This crater of an extinct volcano got its name when Western explorers mistook calcite crystals they found there for diamonds. The historic trail to the 761-foot summit starts inside the crater and is an easy, but steep, 45-minute hike to the top. Stay on the trail, wear appropriate footgear and sunscreen, take along water and bring a flashlight to light your way through the tunnels. Those who reach the summit are rewarded by a spectacular 360-degree view of O'ahu. The tunnel gates close promptly at 6p. Admission: USD1 per person, USD5 per vehicle. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: James Bynes |
 Photo: ElectricSprout |
 Honolulu's community theater |
520 Makapuu Avenue Honolulu, HI 96816 United States +1 808 733 0277 / +1 808 733 0274 (Box Office) http://www.diamondheadtheatre.... dht@diamondheadtheatre.com |
Community theater can be found on every Hawaiian island, but it rarely gets more lavish than this. Enthusiastic, full-scale productions of classics such as 'The King and I' are staged regularly. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Performing arts at the Academy |
900 South Beretania Street (Rear of Honolulu Academy of Arts) Honolulu, HI 96813 United States +1 808 532 8768 http://www.honoluluacademy.org/ |
The Honolulu Academy of Arts is an epicenter of culture in Honolulu; its theater has an ongoing program of international films, concerts and lectures. Special films are offered almost daily, and live performances and lectures are featured several times each month. Recent performances have included concerts by renowned keyboard artist Paul Badura-Skoda and a lecture series on Hawaii Opera Theatres performance of Tales of Hoffman by Offenbach. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Fun, personable beach luau |
91119 Olai Street (Exit #1) Honolulu, HI 96707 United States +1 808 949 6626 http://www.germainesluau.com/ |
The "Aloha Spirit" is very much in evidence at this friendly, entertaining luau. On Germaine's strip of beach, guests can dance the hula, sip free-flowing Mai Tais and Blue Hawaiians, and stuff themselves on a sumptuous buffet of Hawaiian and American favorites. At the dinner show, performers from varied South Pacific islands entertain the crowd with displays of skill and dexterity. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: JillHamiltonKrawczyk |
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Distinctive memorabilia |
1837 Kapiolani Boulevard Honolulu, HI 96826 United States +1 808 955 7383 http://www.hardrock.com/locati... honolulu_sales@hardrock.com |
Located just across from Hawaii's new Convention Center, this place rocks every night. Its decor is the same as its sister locations worldwide: rock memorabilia and lots of it. The management claims that more than 300 items decorate the spacious interior. The menu mostly offers burgers and sandwiches. Try the Broiled Tupelo Chicken; it's very tasty. The barbecued ribs are good too. Rock, reggae, soul or Hawaiian band take the stage from time to time. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: david |
 Photo: david |
 Highbrow culture |
987 Waimanu Street Honolulu, HI 96814 United States +1 808 596 7372 / +1 800 836 7372 http://www.hawaiiopera.org hotopera@hawaiiopera.org |
Opera is alive and well in Honolulu! Operas are performed in the modern, air-conditioned Neal Blaisdell Concert Hall, a comfortable facility with plush seating for 2,100 people. The Hawaii Opera Theatre (known as HOT) also hosts many events throughout the year, including concerts, educational programs and an annual ball. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Richie Yamashiroya |
 Photo: Alice Redona |
 Photo: christian razukas |
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Fine arts museum |
900 South Beretania Street Thomas Square Historic District Honolulu, HI 96814-1495 United States +1 808 532 8700 http://www.honoluluacademy.org/ tours@honoluluacademy.org |
The impressive holdings of Hawaii's fine arts museum include one of the nation's finest collections of Asian art as well as a 17,000-piece collection of graphic arts and artifacts from Hawaiian and other ancient civilizations around the world. Italian Renaissance and American works are also on exhibit. Guided tours are available. The 290-seat Academy Theatre presents more than 400 programs annually. A restaurant and gift shop is also onsite. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Scott Waterman |
 Photo: Alice Kitajima |
 Photo: Michael Fricano II |
 Photo: Andrew Semansco |
 Classic entertainment |
650 Iwilei Road, #202 (Dole Cannery) Honolulu, HI 96817 United States +1 808 524 0815 http://www.honolulusymphony.com |
The symphony's unique position in a community melded of Western and Eastern culture, it concentrates on musical works that represent a broad spectrum of sounds, styles and influences. Every year, the orchestra presents four major concert series including the Halekulani Classical Masterworks and the Honolulu Pops. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Definitive open air market |
2863 Kalakaua Ave Honolulu, HI 96815 United States |
A huge 100-year-old banyan tree sits in the middle of this open-air shopping mall in Waikiki. It opened in 1956 and is still a popular shopping stop. Shops sell Aloha shirts, diamonds, pearls, woodcarvings, gold, kites, tapestries and surf equipment. You can find some interesting things at a reasonable cost at this reasonable place. There's an international food court on the premises. On the second level you'll also find a surprisingly good Hawaiian art co-op gallery. Live Hawaiian entertainment is presented free of charge every Friday and Saturday evening. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Chelsea |
 Photo: Sam Posnick |
 Photo: Alex Avriette |
 Photo: Jeffrey Villamin |
 Photo: Kevin & Aubrey Mesia |
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Magic, music and dance |
2300 Kalakaua Avenue (Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel) Honolulu, HI 96815-2938 United States +1 808 971 4321 / +1 877 971 4321 http://www.magic-of-polynesia.... |
In this long-running magic extravaganza, master illusionist John Hirokawa headlines an evening of great music, entertainment and animated special effects. Performed in the 700-seat showroom in the Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel, this show has across-the-board appeal, attracting visitors and Honolulu residents. Shows start at 6:30pm and 8:45pm. The price is USD39 for the show only, USD67 with dinner. Call for reservations. (Note: headliner Hirokawa is replaced by an understudy on Sunday and Monday.) Call for reservations. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Broadway plays |
2833 East Manoa Road Honolulu, HI 96822 United States +1 808 988 6131 http://www.manoavalleytheatre.com mvtbus@hawaii.rr.com |
Local talent presents the latest and greatest Broadway and off-Broadway plays year-round at this small Manoa theater. While the shows aren't Broadway quality, they're performed with zeal and imbued with local flavor. Past productions have included 'Of Mice and Men', 'Tommy', 'Side Show' and 'The Complete History of America' (Abridged). Call for timings and ticket prices. The box office is open on weekends when shows are on. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Crissy T. Kawamoto |
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Relics of the missionary past |
553 South King Street Between Alapai & Punchbowl Honolulu, HI 96813-3002 United States +1 808 531 0481 http://www.missionhouses.org/ info@missionhouses.org |
Protestant missionaries established their headquarters on this site in 1820. The prim New England-style white Frame House dates to 1821. The Coral House, so named because it was built from blocks of coral, houses the original iron and mahogany printing press. Descendants of the state's missionary families operate the museum. Museum tours are given daily. On Kama`aina Days "living history" guides dressed in period costume demonstrate 19th-century life in Hawaii. Check website for details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Performance Venue |
777 Ward Avenue Honolulu, HI 96814 United States +1 808 591 2211 |
For large events, this complex is surely Honolulu's most popular entertainment venue. It is comprised of three sections: the sophisticated Concert Hall, the newly renovated Exhibition Hall and the versatile Arena, which can seat more than 5,000 people. Through the years the Center has hosted thousands of events, from the Hawaii State Opera to Stars on Ice to Van Halen. With its prime location, extensive facilities and cutting-edge sound and light equipment, it's no wonder that Blaisdell Center is a favorite venue for local, national and international performers. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Maureen Davis |
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One of Honolulu's best |
Reservations Office: 1860 Ala Moana Boulevard Suite 401 Honolulu, HI 96815 United States +1 808 842 7911 http://www.paradisecovehawaii.com info@paradisecove.com |
While the competition for "Best Luau" is tough in the Hawaiian Islands, this spectacular event might deserve the title. It takes place on 12 acres of gorgeous beachfront property in Western O'ahu. Guests are shuttled to the cove during the day and, upon arrival, are invited to participate in authentic Hawaiian games and activities. At sunset the roasted pig is brought forth, and guests can heap their plates and settle down to watch the show. Hawaii's history is told through music and dance. Call or check the web site for prices and reservations. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tom Bishop |
 Photo: Brian |
 Photo: James Ethan Sullivan |
 Photo: Holly A. Moore |
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Not-so-hidden treasure |
900 South Beretania St (in the Honolulu Academy of Arts) Honolulu, HI 96814 United States +1 808 532 8734 |
Located inside the prestigious Honolulu Academy of Arts, this cafe is an attraction in its own right. The serene, shaded patio provides an escape from downtown Honolulu, while the healthy, inexpensive menu is great for lunch. The volunteer staff is low-key and friendly. The short menu changes often, but it always offers a variety of soups, salads and sandwiches. The vegetables and the bread are always fresh and delicious. If you eat here, you'll be helping a good cause. All profits from the restaurant go toward the Academy. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Most famous site |
1 Arizona Memorial Place Honolulu, HI 96818 United States +1 808 422 2771 http://www.nps.gov/usar/ph_his... |
The tragic occurrences and subsequent world-changing events associated with this naval base make it a crucial part of American history and heritage. While the harbor is quite large, the Visitor's Center and Arizona Memorial are the hubs of tourism. Both places are free to enter, and both draw huge crowds. Several tours are available through activity brokers or tour companies. To reach Pearl Harbor from Waikiki Beach, take Nimitz Highway past the airport to Highway 99, and continue past the naval community. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: April Guenther |
 Photo: Gail Evans |
 Photo: Gail Evans |
 Photo: Lee Braverman |
 Nightclub near downtown |
805 Pohukaina Street Honolulu, HI 96814 United States +1 808 589 1999 http://www.pipelinecafe.net/ |
Patrons of most Waikiki clubs tend to be tourists, with the occasional local straying in to see how the other half bops. The reverse is true at this place. Neither its location nor its exterior are overly impressive. However, with a gaudy front and lots of space inside to boogie, it is a fun, high-energy place. One can take in a sports event on many large screens and dance to an eclectic mix of Jawaiian, hip-hop, R&B and rock. Live bands play occasionally. After 8p, no open-toed shoes or tank tops are allowed. There are Happy Hour specials Monday through Saturday and nightly drink specials starting at 9p. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mark Ramelb |
 Photo: Aaron Eskaran |
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Movie memorabilia cafe |
2155 Kalakaua Avenue Honolulu, HI 96815 United States +1 808 924 7877 http://www.planethollywood.com/ |
This worldwide chain of theme restaurants is a bit hit-and-miss, but the Waikiki location is a winner, especially with Waikiki visitors. Browse tons of Tinseltown memorabilia and choose from a great menu of entrees ranging from meats to seafood. The Caesar Salad is especially good, and the tempting dessert offerings are numerous. The full bar has a decent beer selection and an unremarkable wine list. There is live music and dancing every Friday and Saturday evening starting at 9p. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Island theme park |
55-370 Kamehameha Highway Laie Honolulu, HI 96762 United States +1 808 293 3333 / +1 800 367 7060 http://www.polynesia.com/ internetrez@polynesia.com |
One of Hawaii's top visitor attractions, this tropical 42-acre site showcases seven Polynesian regions: Fiji, Hawai'i, the Marquesas, New Zealand, Samoa, Tahiti and Tonga. Visitors enjoy frequent crafts demonstrations, musical performances, games and more. The famous Canoe Pageant reenacts the myths and legends of Polynesia through song and dance, all atop floating canoes. A spectacular show, Horizons, is presented nightly. There's also an IMAX theater. Entertainment packages start at USD54 for adults, USD37 for children ages 5-11. Shuttle bus transportation from Waikiki hotels is available for an extra charge. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tommy Gooch |
 Photo: Tommy Gooch |
 Photo: Justin Cheng |
 Photo: Carol Smiley |
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Elegant once-a-week luau |
2259 Kalakaua Avenue Royal Hawaiian Hotel Honolulu, HI 96815 United States +1 808 349 7888 / +1 888 349 7888 (Toll Free) / +1 808 923 7311 (Hotel) http://www.royalhawaiianluau.org/ |
The elegant old Royal Hawaiian, one of Honolulu's premier hotels, features one of Hawaii's best luaus every Monday evening. The festivities start with a mai-tai and a fresh flower lei greeting on the hotel's oceanfront. It is followed by Hula lessons and traditional Hawaiian feasting. The evening continues with a top-notch roster of entertainment that includes spectacular dancers, singers and comedians. The luau costs lesser for hotel guests. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Sue Rhodes |
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Three blocks, four floors |
2201 Kalakaua Avenue, Suite A500 Honolulu, HI 96815 United States +1 808 922 0588 http://www.royalhawaiianshoppi... info@RoyalHawaiianShoppingCenter.com |
With more than 150 specialty stores and restaurants, this is truly a one-of-a-kind complex. The only one larger in Honolulu is the Ala Moana Center, and some people say that Royal Hawaiian is beginning to outgrow its famous neighbor. Designer boutiques include Bulgari, Celine and Cartier. Specialty stores such as the Ukulele House 2 carry local merchandise. With more than a dozen restaurants and informal eateries to choose from, you'll never go hungry. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Hiroshi Mori |
 Another Era of Luxury |
2259 Kalakaua Avenue Honolulu, HI 96815 United States +1 808 923 7311 http://www.royal-hawaiian.com/ |
The so-called "Pink Palace of the Pacific" opened its doors in 1927 and has been a favorite for the international set ever since. Although there have been many renovations in its more than 70 years of operation, the hotel and grounds have remained graceful, relaxed and very Hawaiian. In one wing, each room comes with a private lanai, canopied bed and Queen Anne-style writing desk. The most luxurious accommodations, the Prestige Suites, are truly magnificent. This is one of two original Waikiki hotels, and it still retains the feeling of Old Waikiki. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: John Blanchart |
 Photo: Alex Yamane |
 Photo: looking_for_a_cause_too |
 Photo: Janet Gyenes |
 Photo: lani02@sbcglobal.net |
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Last-minute for less |
Hc 1 Box 59 Honolulu, HI 96748 United States +1 808 922 2665 / +1 888 645 2665 http://www.stand-bygolf.com/ sbyglf@aol.com |
The equivalent of stand-by airfare, this activity broker offers cut-rate greens fees on courses around O'ahu to people who are willing to wait until the last minute to schedule a tee time. Most of the time you will not know where you are playing until one day in advance;or the same day. You can save anywhere from 25-50 percent by booking through this place. Note: It is sometimes possible to reserve more than a day in advance. Call for more information. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Private lanais |
2300 Kalakaua Avenue Honolulu, HI 96815 United States +1 808 922 4646 / +1 800 462 6262 (Toll Free) http://waikikibeachcomber.com |
Located only steps from Waikiki Beach, this place caters to people from all walks of life. The richly appointed rooms and suites all have private lanais, most with an ocean view. In addition to offering plenty of entertainment, the hotel aims to meet all the practical needs of short-term or long-term guests. A number of special packages are available. Hotel entertainment includes the ever-popular Don Ho show and the stunning, 'Magic of Polynesia' revue. Review © 2007, Wcities |
hotel availability |
 Photo: wcities |
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Glitzy club in Waikiki |
2255 Kuhio Avenue (Ground floor Waikiki Trade Center) Honolulu, HI 96815 United States +1 808 924 3939 |
If you like outrageous decor, check out this extravagant $7 million nightclub decked out like a high-tech Egyptian pharaoh's tomb. It is a lavish place that features state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems, a soundproof VIP room, dance-crazy DJs and live stage performances. Zanzabar's collection of Egyptian art is more substantial than some museum collections;and it is everywhere. The place caters mostly to the younger set, although, older folks have been known to stop by for the ambience and entertainment. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |