Honolulu · TICKETS
This is the shortlist you would text a friend flying in: 10 tickets & entry passes worth the money, each with its price, its traveller verdict and the thing to know before you commit.
At 7:15 pm, Rock-A-Hula takes you through Hawaii’s musical story, from hapa-haole hula to modern pop. Expect live musicians, dancers, archival concert images, fire knife dancing, Elvis and Michael Jackson tributes, general seating, and a cast meet and greet afterward.
“The vocalist needed to be louder or the band needed to be softer. It was hard to hear the vocals. The venue is nice and everyone was very friendly.”
Spend one to eight hours exploring Bishop Museum’s Hawaiian Hall, Pacific Hall, planetarium, science center, and changing exhibits. Learn about Polynesian migration, traditional Hawaiian arts, island formation, and astronomy. General admission does not include planetarium shows, parking, or special exhibits.
“What an amazing find! We had recalcitrant weather one day, and looked for indoor things to do, and found this museum. A wonderful way to learn about modern efforts to revive traditional Hawaiian arts, learn about Hawaiian and Polynesian cultures, and experience other information. There wasn't enough time to do everything we wanted to do!”
Ride from Waikiki to Diamond Head with park admission and round-trip shuttle service included. You hike independently, not with a guide, and usually have time for photos, a treat, and a relaxed return. Drivers such as Matthew and Eric may add local tips along the way.
“This was a wonderful morning hike. I did not find the hike difficult, but future hikers should know the pathway is uneven, there are many stairs and one small tunnel about 250ft long (for those claustrophobic). It's important that people wear proper foot gear, not sandals and take a full bottle of water. The view is beautiful, and the hike can be completed in 25-40 mins to the top, depending on how many stops you take for photos.”
Start around 5:30 a.m. with hotel pickup, a drive to Diamond Head State Monument, and a self-guided 1.5-mile climb. Your entry reservation is arranged, and guides such as Jonah, Johnna, and Stephanie may provide local history, water, and flashlights before you hike at your own pace.
“We did the Diamond Head sunrise hike, and it was absolutely worth it. Starting in the dark was a little nerve-racking, and we needed flashlights for part of the hike. I was definitely out of breath halfway up since we are not hikers, but taking our time helped. The reward at the top was incredible—the sunrise was beautiful and the views were unforgettable. We were so glad we pushed ourselves to do it. Finishing the hike with fresh pineapple juice at the bottom was the perfect ending. Even if you’re not an experienced hiker, I highly recommend the sunrise hike. It’s challenging but doable, and such a memorable experience.”
You receive Hanauma Bay admission plus a mask, snorkel, fins, and floatation belt for one day. Arrange your preferred entry time and email in advance, then collect and return gear at the Watumull Building in Waikiki. Transportation is not included.
“Costó mucho encontrar el sitio donde alquilaban el equipo de snorkel. Las instucciones no eran claras”
Visit Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum on Ford Island with admission, shuttle service, and an audio tour in six languages. Walk through Hangars 37 and 79, see aircraft from WWII and Korea, spot attack damage, watch wartime footage, and speak with veteran volunteers.
“I enjoyed the audio self guided tour of the museum. It was very interesting and informative. Seeing the plans and the stories of the pilots made history come alive!!”
Spend an evening at Waikiki’s 750-seat Royal Hawaiian Theater with live Hawaiian music, hula, Tahitian and fire-knife dancing, plus Elvis and Michael Jackson tributes. Choose show-only tickets or add an upscale buffet with luau pork, roast beef, poke, vegetarian dishes, desserts, and Kona coffee.
“It’s so bad that almost funny. It’s not the traditional hula show not a musical. Elvis and micheal Jackson lookalike - and unfortunately not really good. People around seemed to have fun. I didn’t enjoy it. It was tacky and cringey.”
Spend a full day at Honolulu’s Bishop Museum, where Hawaiian royal objects, Pacific cultures, native species, geology exhibits, and lava pour demonstrations share one campus. Your $38 ticket covers Hawaiian and Pacific Hall, the Science and Adventure Center, the planetarium lobby, and possible 10am or 11am Hawaiian Hall tours.
“Friendly welcome and Lanakila Seniors really enjoyed their visit. Thanks so very much!”
Spend 10 hours at Pearl Harbor with an English-speaking guide, visiting the USS Arizona Memorial, USS Missouri, USS Bowfin, and Aviation Museum before a Honolulu and Punchbowl sightseeing drive. Guides Bill and Will are praised for clear, fact-filled commentary.
“The whole day was excellent. Bill was a great guide very knowledgeable.”
Spend 2.5 hours at Wet 'n' Wild Hawaii after a 45-minute Waikiki van ride. Ride Shaka and Tornado, relax at Lil Kahuna Beach or Hawaiian Waters, and use the included round-trip transfer. Food, drinks, lockers, and Da Flowrider cost extra.
“Great to do with teenage kids ! Loved the slides, could easily spend more time here . The transfer was great and efficient”
Pick a harbour, a coast road or a boat.
