Top Rated Attractions in Honolulu

Head to the Sheraton Moana Surfrider Hotel's private beach to show off your amateur surfing skills. And no harm if you stumble and fall, as only beginners are around for company. You can rent a surfboard from the Aloha Beach Service, who also provide a bodyguard, just in case you lose your balance while trying to impress! But if you are a complete novice, enroll yourself in the private or group classes on offer. Go for canoe rides, if surfing has failed to excite you—equipment is rented out for that too. Also on rent are beach chairs and umbrellas.

While it's almost become too popular with yacht owners, and as a result is beginning to suffer from over-congestion, this harbor is a favorite scenic spot. Views of the Ala Wai Harbor are a coveted feature for downtown restaurants and hotels. From the harbor one can see the Diamond Head or the endless blue Pacific Ocean. If you want a little more action, head over to Kaiser's Bowl and watch the surfers do their thing. The Waikiki Trolley makes regular stops here.

Though not as famous or touristy as Waikiki, Kapahulu is a nice stop to stroll, eat and shop. This small strip of a neighborhood is dominated by its namesake avenue. It is the hub of restaurants, souvenir shops, food shops, aloha shirt boutiques, knickknacks and antiques. This is the place to find everything related to the Hawaiian culture. Foodies will just love this place as it offers a wide range of eateries for various palates. From celebrity chefs to regional cooks, you have it all at this lovely spot.

For people who want to bring a piece of Hawai'i back to the mainland but don't have the money for an original Wyland painting, there's this place. All kinds of special arts and crafts from the islands are for sale at affordable prices. Choose from reproduced watercolors, maps of the islands, black and white photos of famous surfers of old, or other island themed works. Lots of three-dimensional art is also available. Candles, glassware and sculptures are displayed on the shelves.

The Republik is a multi-purpose venue that doubles up as a nightclub with live music and art gallery. This nightspot that showcases a wide variety of events and performances, including rrt exhibitions, concerts, and much more are regularly organised here throughout the year.

While the name might make one think of gas stations, this place is actually a shell-shaped structure that has nothing to do with petrol or quick marts. Waikiki Shell is technically a part of the Neal S. Blaisdell Center and is located at the foot of Diamond Head, in a picturesque garden setting. There are concerts, political rallies and corporate parties hosted here.