It’s no secret that Honolulu is a dream destination for so many people. From the gorgeous beaches to the surf scene to the cultural experiences of Honolulu and Waikiki, there is an experience waiting for every type of traveler on this beautiful island state. To get the best out of your Hawaiian adventure, the best place to book your stay is with Marina Hawaii Vacations, a vacation rental company renting condo units in primarily three different properties, the Ilikai Tower, Ilikai Marina, and Discovery Bay, with options for every type of vacationer. While there is plenty to do in Honolulu, Oahu during your vacation, there are also plenty of free things to do that will help you make the most of your experience. From gorgeous hikes and beaches to historic sites, there are plenty of completely free things to do in Honolulu.
Hike in Diamond Head
Of everything there is to experience on this island, one of the most famous free things to do in Honolulu is to hike up the famous crater, Diamond Head to see the sunrise. Hawaiian sunrises can’t be beaten, and the best way to see them is from points of higher elevation, like this iconic spot upon the dormant volcano and former military base. The hike itself is two hours and 1.8 miles long, and the views from the top are better than any other spot on the island. Once you make it to the top, you’ll be greeted by expansive views of Waikiki, and of course, if you’re early enough, the rising sun.
As of May 12th, 2022 all out-of-state visitors must have an advanced reservation to enter Diamond Head State Monument. The reservation system will activate on April 28th, 2022 allowing for reservations to be made 14 days in advance. Click here to reserve.
Experience the Beach and the Surf at Waimea Bay
Waimea Bay, which is located along Oahu’s gorgeous North Shore, is one of the most famous beaches in the world. From the magnificent horizon to the enormous waves, simply sitting on this beach is a must-do experience, and one of the best free things to do near Honolulu. Here, you’ll be able to watch surfers take on huge waves, and even swim in the ocean yourself!
Visit Pearl Harbor
One of the most important free things to do in Honolulu is visiting USS Arizona Memorial Park and Pearl Harbor. Here, you’ll be able to learn about one of the most pivotal moments in United States history through exploring the museum and the designated National Historic Site. You’ll also have the chance to take a ferry ride over to see the memorial. While visiting a historic monument might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you picture your Hawaiian adventure, it truly is one of the most important things to experience while you’re in Honolulu, allowing you to get a sense of the deep history of Hawaii and the United States.
Explore the Nature Reserve and Wildlife at Ka’ena Point
While it’s a bit further away, Ka’ena Point is a gorgeous nature reserve featuring hiking trails, beautiful coastline views, and a chance to see wildlife. While you can drive to the nature reserve, Ka’ena Point itself must be hiked to, although you can hike to it from either side of the sanctuary. While you’re there, make sure to keep your eye out for wildlife such as albatross, and even monk seals, who might be out there enjoying the sun and sand themselves.
Watch a Traditional Hula Dance in Waikiki
If you’re looking for that picture-perfect Hawaii experience, look no further. Every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, Waikiki’s Kuhio Beach hosts a sunset hula show. The show is as traditional as it gets and guests often spread out around the beach to experience its local magic, making this one of the best free things to do in Honolulu.
Free Things to Do in Honolulu
Hawaii is a magical vacation spot, featuring a little something for everyone, and in addition, there are plenty of free things to do in Honolulu that will make your experience even more fruitful. From exploring Hawaii’s wilderness on the trails to learning about its history, the opportunities are truly endless when it comes to free things to do in Honolulu. Your stay with Marina Hawaii Vacations will surely be a special one, as you spend your hotel downtime staring at those beautiful Hawaiian ocean views and relaxing in one of their many beautiful condominium accommodations soaking up the sun, sea, and sand.
Pearl Harbor is one of Hawaii’s most well known historical military bases in America. Millions of people visit Pearl Harbor every year to learn about the history and experience the sights that allow you to catch a glimpse of the past through museums and monuments. When you take a Hawaii vacation with us at Marina Hawaii Vacations, take a day to explore this historical area and discover all there is to know about this famous site.
The History Of Pearl Harbor
December 7th, 1941 was the day that set a chain of events into motion during World War II as Pearl Harbor was sent under fire. People across the world had their eyes on the base as tragedy struck. You can still find pieces of history left behind to honor those who fell in the events that unfolded in the Harbor. However, Pearl Harbor is now recognized as a place where all of those who were affected, their families, and those who simply wish to learn about that historical day can learn about the events that occurred and commemorate those who aided in bringing peace between Japan and America once again.
More Than A Historical Sight
Pearl Harbor is still an active military base and also has several sights that people can gain insight on the past events that have taken place there. It is easy to spend a full day here because of the Pacific Aviation Museum on Ford Island, tours of the USS Missouri, the USS Oklahoma Memorial, the USS Arizona Memorial, and the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. Schedule tours and purchase tickets ahead of time to plan your visit and spend the day learning about World War II history. Get a first-hand glimpse into history through the stories of those who survived and various pieces of history that remain on display for visitors to view during their Hawaii Vacation. Pearl Harbor is full of fantastic educational opportunities and is a one of a kind experience.
Plan Your Own Experience
Whether you wish to attend a guided tour or explore on your own self-guided tour, Pearl Harbor is a sight that you will not want to miss on your Hawaii Vacation. The next time you stay with us at Marina Hawaii Vacations, be sure to add Pearl Harbor to your itinerary as this must-see holds an important piece of our history and is well worth a visit. Discover this National Historic Landmark and uncover the intriguing history of Pearl Harbor.
When it comes to finding a fantastic brew during your stay at our Marina Hawaii Vacation rentals, you will not need to go too far. While being located on the culturally rich island of Oahu, we have a few suggestions on where to find the best Hawaii breweries. Get ready to quench your thirst with some of the best craft brews and Oahu breweries on your Hawaii vacation!
Lanikai Brewing Company
The island way of life in Hawaii is heavily geared towards being green and recycling and reusing as much as possible to keep waste out of our beautiful ocean waters. At Lanikai Brewing Company, not only will you be able to find delicious island-inspired brews, the company actively participates in the efforts to use natural products and reusing all of the tools after each batch of tasty beverages is created. Local farmers are offered the pallets, spent grains, packaging and other items while the business also donates to beach cleanup efforts and utilizes reusable energy. At Lanikai Brewing Co., you can sip on your favorite brews while also helping them give back to the community and Mother Nature.
Beer Lab Hawaii
For a few unique tastes in Oahu breweries, stop in at Beer Lab HI. This stop specializes in small batch brewing so that each beer is crafted a little differently to offer various flavorings for a unique experience every time. Beer Lab Hawaii is, however, a BYOF or bring your own food establishment. Though this sets them apart from many of the other Hawaii breweries, it allows the team to put all of their focus into flavorful beverages.
Maui Brewing Company
If you enjoy pairing a delectable meal with a cool thirst-quenching beverage, then the Maui Brewing Company is the place to be! Discover an array of handcrafted dishes that will leave your mouth watering and the perfect brew to accompany each bite. All of the produce that is used is locally sourced to create culinary specialties for every guest. You can choose from 36 different craft draft beers as well as a full menu of island-inspired cuisine.
Brewseum Hawaii
For an experience that you won’t find anywhere else, you can take a walk through history and sip on a cold one. The Brewseum was initially the final stop on a tour of the WWII Military Base. However, that came to an end on the 75th anniversary of the Pearl Harbor attack and has since then been a museum and brewpub combination. Discover various WWII military items, historical Hawaiian relics, and some of the original brews of the islands.
When you stay with us at Marina Hawaii Vacations, take some time to test out some of the best Oahu breweries. Whether you stop in at one of these well-loved brew hubs or another hidden-gem that you come across, a visit to a local brewery is the best way to get a taste of the good life. Raise a glass to island life and have fun exploring the best Hawaii breweries.