Things to do in Waiahole

You know that you’re in Hawaii when you step onto the pristine white sand of world-famous Waikiki Beach. Dip your toes into the warm Pacific waters and watch the surfers show off their moves on the waves, or sit back in the shade of a palm tree and gaze up at the green slopes of Diamond Head.

One of the most infamous dates in American history is the December 7, 1941. At 7.55 a.m. Japanese aircraft made a surprise attack on the U.S. Navy's Pacific Fleet that led directly to America’s entry into World War II. Visit the memorials and museums of the naval base and see where the war with Japan started and ended.

Split your time in Waikiki between beach activities on the sand and non-beach activities at the Royal Hawaiian Center. Here you’ll find three buildings with a large selection of luxury brand stores, one-of-a-kind boutiques and more affordable shops to find the perfect clothing to wear on your vacation or items to take home as souvenirs or gifts. Dining options are almost unlimited too.

The curving green slopes of Diamond Head dominate the Honolulu skyline, a stunning backdrop that has become an iconic Hawaiian scene. Hike the 0.75-mile (1.1-kilometer) trail to the top, or simply enjoy a picnic at its base.

The colorful flamingos welcome you as soon as you enter the grounds of the Honolulu Zoo. Nearby, over 160 other species of tropical birds also show off their bright plumage. Continue on for close encounters with impressive giant reptiles such as Komodo dragons, crocodiles and iguanas, before visiting the giraffes, meerkats, cheetahs and aardvarks.