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Honolulu – a brief overview
Honolulu. The name alone is enough to conjure up images of white sands, lei garlands and days spent doing little more than wandering from swimming pool to cocktail bar and back again. The reality isn’t always too far removed from the cliché, particularly in the ever-popular beach neighbourhood of Waikiki, but the city itself is the economic centre of the archipelago, as well as its capital, so there are plenty of museums and smart hotels to complement the sun loungers and music joints.
Sitting in the south of the dramatic island of Oahu, it’s a far remove from most American cities – in more ways than one.
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Top 10 sights in Honolulu

Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum
Honolulu, HI 96817
USA
Tel: +1 808 847 3511
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Opening times:
Wed-Mon 0900-1700
Where to come to delve into the rainbow world of Hawaiian culture and history, with exhibits spanning everything from the scientific and educational to stories of Pacific traditions and immigration.
Kawaiaha’o Church
Honolulu, HI 96813
USA
Tel: +1 808 469 3000
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One of the longest-standing Christian places of worship on the archipelago – and often referred to as Hawaii’s Westminster Abbey – this stone church remains a US National Historic Landmark.
Hawaiian Mission Houses
Honolulu, HI 96813
USA
Tel: +1 808 447 3910
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Opening times:
Tue-Sat 1000-1600
A gem of an attraction for history buffs, with three restored houses (two of which are the oldest in Hawaii) giving insight into life on the islands in the 19th century.
Kuhio Beach Park
Honolulu, HI 96815
USA
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Arguably the best public beach park in town, it’s well suited to everyone from surfers and swimmers to those who would rather pass the time of day catching rays or watching hula-dancing.
Honolulu Museum of Art
Honolulu, HI 96814
USA
Tel: +1 808 532 8700
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Opening times:
Tue-Sat 1000-1630
Sun 1300-1700
With a vast collection of works spanning different periods of the state’s history, with local artists appearing alongside heavyweights such as Gauguin and Picasso. It’s spread across several venues.
Waikiki Aquarium
Honolulu, HI 96815
USA
Tel: +1 808 923 9741
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Opening times:
Daily 0900-1630
The second oldest public aquarium in the entire USA, this still-popular attraction does a good job of showcasing the colour and variety of the marine life that populates Hawaii’s reefs.
Hawaii Children’s Discovery Center
Honolulu, HI 96813
USA
Tel: +1 808 524 5437
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Opening times:
Tue-Fri 0900-1300
Sat-Sun 1000-1500
A good option for those days when the sun might not be shining (perish the thought), this interactive centre-cum-museum has myriad activities and distractions for younger visitors.
US Hawaii Army Museum
Honolulu, HI 96815
USA
Tel: +1 808 955 9552
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Opening times:
Tue-Sat 0900-1700
Occupying a former military installation, this museum gives the chance to see helicopters, tanks, weapons and now-deserted bunkers, while giving information about the archipelago’s sometimes troubled past.
Iolani Palace
Honolulu, HI 96813
USA
Tel: +1 808 522 0832
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Opening times:
Mon-Sat 0900-1600
Visit the country’s only royal palace, which has been open as a museum for more than 35 years – the interiors have been lovingly restored to their former glories.
USS Bowfin
Honolulu, HI 96818
USA
Tel: +1 808 423 1341
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Opening times:
Daily 0700-1700
Ported in Pearl Harbor, this WWII submarine was put into service exactly a year after the notorious attack on the area and remains open to the public as an eye-opening historical artefact.
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Country Information
Country overview
From its vast plains, snow-covered mountains, deep forests and strange rock formations, to soaring skyscrapers and a thunderous cultural scene, the USA is a collage of extremes. Nothing can prepare you for your first glimpse of Manhattan’s unforgettable skyline, your first ride in a yellow cab, the ubiquitous hamburger joints, yawning expanses of prairie, the sweet strains of New Orleans jazz, or the neon-lit excesses of Las Vegas.
Marvel at the thunderous spectacle of Niagara Falls in northern New York, or seek an antidote to urban chaos amidst the flat farmland of the Midwest. Then there are the black hills of South Dakota, the dramatic mountain and ocean landscape of California’s Pacific Coast Highway and the world-famous Grand Canyon.
Geography
Covering a large part of the North American continent, the USA shares borders with Canada to the north and Mexico to the south. The country has coasts on the Atlantic, Pacific and Arctic oceans, the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico. The State of Alaska, in the northwest corner of the US, is not part of the continental US; it is separated from the rest of the USA by Canada. Similarly, Hawaii is not part of the “lower 48” states; it lies in the central Pacific Ocean.
The country’s dependent territories are offshore and have distinct geographies of their own; the majority are islands.
The third-largest country in the world (after the Russian Federation and Canada), the USA has an enormous diversity of geographical features, including mountains, plains, and coastal zones. Though there are many cities that are densely populated with more manmade features than natural ones, there are also vast rural areas that are far more sparsely populated. The climate ranges from subtropical to arctic, with a corresponding breadth of flora and fauna.
General knowledge
Key facts
Population: 319 millions (estimate 2018)
Capital: Washington, DC.
Language
English, with significant Spanish-speaking minorities.
Currency
US Dollar (USD; symbol $) = 100 cents. Notes are in denominations of $100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1, though the $2 bill is rare and is not in high circulation. Coins are in denominations of $1, and 50, 25, 10, 5 and 1 cents.
Electricity
120 volts AC, 60Hz. Plugs have two flat pins with or without a third round grounding pin.
Public holidays
Below are listed public holidays for the January 2019 – December 2020 period.
Note: States can recognize other days as state holidays that are not federal holidays.
2019
New Year’s Day: 1 January 2019
Martin Luther King Day: 21 January 2019
President’s Day: 18 February 2019
Memorial Day: 27 May 2019
Independence Day: 4 July 2019
Labor Day: 2 September 2019
Columbus Day: 14 October 2019
Veterans Day: 11 November 2019
Thanksgiving Day: 28 November 2019
Christmas: 25 December 2019
2020
New Year’s Day: 1 January 2020
Martin Luther King Day: 20 January 2020
President’s Day: 17 February 2020
Memorial Day: 25 May 2020
Independence Day: 3 and 4 July 2020
Labor Day: 7 September 2020
Columbus Day: 12 October 2020
Veterans Day: 11 November 2020
Thanksgiving Day: 26 November 2020
Christmas: 25 December 2020
All information subject to change.
Flight and accommodation
Lufthansa pilot takes on Hawaiian triathlon for charity
Have you ever traveled abroad to push past your limits? Lufthansa co-pilot Lars Heurich hits Hawaii for his toughest challenge yet: running, swimming and cycling 514 km in 36 hours to raise 50,000 Euros for charity. Here’s one trip he’ll never forget.
The #inspiredby series takes you on a trip around the world. Experience the world from the perspective of artists, musicians, athletes and our very own crew, whether at work or play! See what impact and meaning traveling has for each of these individuals and let their stories inspire you.
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Nightlife in Honolulu
Honolulu knows how to party, and whether you’re after a sleek rooftop bar, a beachfront sundowner or a proper Hawaiian rump-shake, there are choices by the dozen.
You’ll generally find plenty of activity seven nights a week.
Mai Tai Bar
Honolulu, HI 96814
USA
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Sitting on top of the Ala Moana Mall, this lanai bar is great place to be at sunset.
Hawaii Theater Center
Honolulu, HI 96813
USA
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Built way back in 1922, this restored movie palace still stages a range of theatre and cultural events.
Hula’s Bar & Lei Stand
134 Kapahulu Ave
Honolulu, HI 96815
USA
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A famous gay-friendly beach bar and disco, with superb views over the Pacific.
Gordon Biersch Brewery
Honolulu, HI 96813
USA
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Hawaii’s first brewpub, complete with ocean views and local music.
Nashville Waikiki
Honolulu, HI 96815
USA
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Something a little different – Hawaii’s very own country, western and classic rock saloon.
Flight and accommodation
Restaurants in Honolulu
It’s said by many that Honolulu feels more Asian than North American.
What’s certainly true is that the diverse cuisine on offer does credit to both continents, with food being one of the destination’s undisputed highlights.
La Mer
Honolulu, HI 96815
USA
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Price: Expensive
Fine dining at the Halekulani hotel, with dishes inspired by flavours from the south of France.
Alan Wong’s Honolulu
Honolulu, HI 96826
USA
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Price: Expensive
Run by a celebrity chef, this gives an inventive take on Hawaiian cuisine.
Steak Shack
Honolulu, HI 96815
USA
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Price: Moderate
All-day steak plates close to the beach – what’s not to love?
Lucky Belly
Honolulu, HI 96817
USA
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Price: Moderate
A ramen restaurant with wooden, unfussy interiors and legions of fans.
Marukame Udon
Honolulu, HI 96815
USA
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Price: Cheap
More noodle goodness here, now with a Fort Street Mall location to complement its Waikiki outlet.
Flight and accommodation
Calendar of events
Cherry Blossom Festival
20 March – 14 April 2019
Website
Venue: Various venues and locations in Honolulu
Honolulu’s Cherry Blossom Festival was first held in 1949 and has been celebrating Japanese culture and heritage on Hawaii each year ever since. Events take place in various locations over a two-month period leading up to the festival finale: the grand Festival Ball where the Cherry Blossom Festival Queen will be crowned. Other events include heritage displays, fashion shows, a golf tournament, traditional Japanese musical performances and numerous cultural displays and exhibitions which celebrate Japanese culture, customs and heritage.
Honolulu Festival
8 – 10 March 2019
Website
Venue: Various venues and locations in Honolulu
With an eclectic programme of cultural events, the Honolulu Festival is a weekend of entertainment and educational activities aimed at promoting understanding and integration between the people of Hawaii and the Asia-Pacific region. During the festival visitors can take their pick from live music, dancing, art exhibitions, film screenings, lectures, school visits and a colourful street parade. This is arguably Hawaii’s biggest and best-loved cultural festival.
Lei Day Celebration
1 May 2019
Venue: Various venues
Hawaii’s most emblematic symbol is without doubt the lei – a garland of flowers, given as an expression of welcome and hospitality. May Day is dedicated to the lei and the traditions associated with it. The first Lei Day was held in 1927. From small beginnings it has grown into an event celebrated across the islands, but especially in Honolulu on Oahu. Events on this day include pageants and competitions for both lei queen and the making of the lei itself.
Pan-Pacific Festival
June 2019
Website
Venue: Various venues and locations in Honolulu
A fusion of Pan-Pacific cultures, this popular festival is a weekend of events ranging from a block party to a fun half marathon. But the main event is the colourful parade that starts at Fort DeRussy and then heads through town down Kalakaua Avenue, through the heart of Waikiki and ends at Kapiolani Park. Over 1,000 marchers, floats and bands participate in the parade and the streets are lined with cheering spectators. Another popular event that attracts big crowds is the Hula Festival, which is held in the Ala Moana Shopping Center and offers visitors a great introduction to this traditional Hawaiian dance.
Aloha Festivals
September 2019
Website
Venue: Various venues and locations throughout the Hawaiian Islands
The Aloha Festivals take place across six of the islands, celebrating Hawaii’s music, dance and history. More than 300 events make up the festivals and help to preserve the unique island traditions. On each island, celebrations commence with “Oahu”, where a king, queen, prince, princess and attendants are chosen, all of them of Hawaiian descent. The investitures are wonderfully evocative occasions of much colour and ceremony including the blowing of conch shells and waving of feather standards. Aloha Festivals incorporate the strong Pacific, Asian and Western cultural influences on the islands, epitomised by everything from Japanese Bon Dance to the traditional hula. Music, song, dance, traditional rituals and pageantry in native costume, floral parades, sports and competitions are among the many events.
All information subject to change. Please check the dates on the relevant event organizer’s website.
Flight and accommodation
Hotels in Honolulu
It’s little surprise that the majority of tourist hotels in Honolulu tend to be congregated around Waikiki, where the Hawaiian lifestyle of legend is at its most apparent.
There are good options for all budgets.
Halekulani
Honolulu, HI 96815
USA
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Category: Expensive
One of the best known luxury hotels in Hawaii, with a beach location.
Trump Hotel Waikiki Beach Walk
Honolulu, HI 96815
USA
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Category: Expensive
A five-star, 462-room property with all the usual luxury trimmings.
Coconut Waikiki Hotel
Honolulu, HI 96815
USA
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Category: Moderate
A much-praised boutique hotel with a pool, fitness centre and free continental breakfast.
The Modern Honolulu
Honolulu, HI 96815
USA
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Category: Moderate
Previously voted Hawaii’s best boutique hotel, this is a chic place to stay.
Castle Waikiki Grand Hotel
Honolulu, HI 96815
USA
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Category: Cheap
A nicely situated budget option, with easy access to the beach and Honolulu Zoo.
Flight and accommodation
Best time to visit
Today: Monday, 09.12.2019 02:00 UTC

partly cloudy
temperature
22°C
wind direction
northwestwind speed
3.125 mphhumidity
83%7 days forecast
Monday
09.12.2019
29°C / 23°C
Tuesday
10.12.2019
29°C / 24°C
Wednesday
11.12.2019
29°C / 24°C
Thursday
12.12.2019
27°C / 24°C
Friday
13.12.2019
26°C / 23°C
Saturday
14.12.2019
27°C / 23°C
Sunday
15.12.2019
27°C / 23°C
Climate & best time to visit the USA
The United States has varied weather conditions, and the best time to visit depends both upon the location and the season. Spring (March, April, May) and autumn (September and October) are generally cooler, more comfortable times to visit. Summer months – June, July, and August – are generally hot regardless of the region, but winter temperatures (November-February) can vary substantially depending upon the part of the US you are visiting. The southern part of the country tends to be warmer in the winter than the north. The general climate of the continental US is temperate, but keep in mind that Hawaii is tropical and Alaska is arctic. Many of the country’s dependent territories, such as Guam, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands, are also tropical.
Summer is considered the peak tourist season throughout the country; other popular travel times are major American holidays, especially Thanksgiving and Christmas, as well as Easter Week and the school holiday known as Spring Break. Certain destinations, such as New York, are perennial favourites and are busy year-round; even when the weather may not be pleasant, these destinations have particular attractions or experiences that always draw travellers. In some parts of the country, travel services may be limited during the low or off-season, largely due to weather conditions.
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
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Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
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absolute max | absolute min | Ø absolute max | Ø absolute min | relative humidity | Ø precipitation | days with deposit > 1mm | sunshine duration | |
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Jan | 30 °C | 11 °C | 26 °C | 18 °C | 75 % | 96 mm | 7 | 6.8 h |
Feb | 31 °C | 11 °C | 26 °C | 18 °C | 72 % | 69 mm | 5 | 7.3 h |
Mar | 31 °C | 12 °C | 27 °C | 19 °C | 69 % | 88 mm | 7 | 8.2 h |
Apr | 31 °C | 13 °C | 28 °C | 20 °C | 68 % | 38 mm | 6 | 8.3 h |
May | 32 °C | 15 °C | 29 °C | 21 °C | 66 % | 31 mm | 3 | 8.9 h |
Jun | 32 °C | 18 °C | 30 °C | 22 °C | 65 % | 12 mm | 2 | 9.3 h |
Jul | 33 °C | 19 °C | 30 °C | 22 °C | 65 % | 14 mm | 3 | 9.6 h |
Aug | 33 °C | 19 °C | 31 °C | 23 °C | 66 % | 15 mm | 2 | 9.6 h |
Sep | 33 °C | 18 °C | 31 °C | 22 °C | 66 % | 16 mm | 3 | 9.2 h |
Oct | 34 °C | 17 °C | 30 °C | 22 °C | 67 % | 48 mm | 5 | 7.9 h |
Nov | 32 °C | 14 °C | 28 °C | 20 °C | 71 % | 82 mm | 6 | 6.8 h |
Dec | 31 °C | 12 °C | 27 °C | 19 °C | 73 % | 87 mm | 7 | 6.4 h |
year | 34 °C | 11 °C | 29 °C | 20 °C | 69 % | 596 mm | 56 | 8.2 h |
Flight and accommodation
Phone calls & Internet
Telephone/Mobile Telephone
Dialing Code: +1
Telephone
Public telephones have become a rarity, but can still be found here and there. They take coins, telephone cards and credit cards. If you are planning to make regular use of public phones, it’s best to purchase a prepaid calling card from one of the many U.S. providers.
Mobile Telephone
Not all European cell phones work on the American network, since it requires a tri-band or quad-band device. Full network coverage is not always assured outside densely populated areas. Roaming charges are high here, so it is often cheaper to buy a SIM card from a U.S. provider. Low-cost prepaid SIM cards for making calls inside the country can be ordered online before you travel.
Internet
Free Internet access via Wi-Fi is possible in many busy tourist spots. When using unencrypted public Wi-Fi networks, it is not advisable to enter passwords, credit card details or banking credentials. We recommend using VPN app or security software to check Wi-Fi hotspots.
Flight and accommodation
Shopping in Honolulu
Key Areas
If you’re in search of high-end designer goods, Waikiki’s Luxury Row has an eye-popping range of premium outlets, from Chanel and Gucci to Bottega Veneta and Tiffany & Co. Close to Waikiki, meanwhile, the neighbourhood of Kapahulu has a number of smaller unique shops.
Markets
The Mahiku Farmers’ Market takes place several times weekly at different spots around the city – it’s a great place to try seasonal produce from the islands. You’ll also find plenty to tease your tastebuds at the daily Yama’s Fish Market (2332 Young Street), which despite its name sells everything from kalua pig to cookies.
Shopping Centres
Aloha Tower (1 Aloha Tower Drive) is a shopping and entertainment zone in downtown Honolulu, named after the landmark tower that still graces the skyline (it’s possible to climb it and take a view of the city). Elsewhere, the Ala Moana Center (1450 Ala Moana Boulevard) is the largest shopping centre in Hawaii.
Flight and accommodation
Traveller etiquette
Social Conventions
Americans are renowned for their openness and friendliness to visitors. The wide variety of national origins and the USA’s relatively short history has resulted in numerous cultural and traditional customs living alongside each other. In large cities, people of the same ethnic background often live within defined communities.
Shaking hands is the usual form of greeting in formal situations and in business meetings. As long as the fundamental rules of courtesy are observed, there need be no fear of offending anyone of any background.
Gifts are appreciated if one is invited to a private home.
As a rule, dress is casual. High-end restaurants, hotels and clubs may require more formal attire.
Smoking is increasingly unpopular in the US; it is essential to ask permission before lighting up. Smoking is not allowed on city transport and restricted or forbidden in public buildings in most states. There will be a posted notice where no smoking is requested. An increasing number of states (including California and New York) have banned smoking altogether in bars, restaurants and many public places.
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Health
Main emergency number: 911
Food & Drink
Food in the US is safe to eat, and the conditions under which food is prepared and served are regulated by city, state, and federal health and hygiene agencies. In many jurisdictions, it is mandatory for restaurants to have a certificate of health or hygiene, as well as the current grade they have been assigned, posted visibly.
Although America is famous for its fast food and obesity rates, the local and fresh food movement is very popular in many areas, especially cities, making it easy to eat healthy. A variety of options also makes it easy for people with special dietary needs to find food that suits them, whether their needs are due to health reasons or to religious requirements.
Tap water is considered safe to drink in the US and is often offered in restaurants before bottled water. Bottled water is available throughout the country, however, both in restaurants and shops, for those who prefer not to drink tap water.
Other Risks
The US is generally considered a safe destination for world visitors. Occasional outbreaks of disease, such as West Nile Virus (a mosquito-borne illness) and H1N1 have occurred in recent years, however. Frequent hand-washing and general practices of good hygiene are encouraged to protect oneself against all types of illness.
Another concern with regard to safety is the possibility of terrorist attacks such as the one that occurred on September 11, 2001. City, state, and federal agencies have stringent anti-terrorism practices in place, however, and direct threats are infrequent.
Flight and accommodation
Visa & Immigration
IATA Travel Centre
The IATA Travel Centre delivers accurate passport, visa and health requirement information at a glance. It is a trusted, centralized source for the latest international travel requirements. The IATA Travel Centre is the most accurate source available because it is based on a comprehensive database used by virtually every airline, and information is gathered from official sources worldwide, such as immigration and police authorities.