The end of the year and the beginning of a new one are such lovely times to visit Honolulu! To prove our point, we’ve compiled a fun list of the top 10 things to do in Honolulu during the fall and winter.
In the fall, or what we call the “shoulder season,” you’ll find fewer tourists, which means more space for you to explore and enjoy everything the city offers. The temperatures cool down, making it perfect for outdoor adventures.
Winter brings its own set of exciting activities, from whale watching to hiking to catching waves. In addition to these perks of visiting in the later months, you'll also get to experience many unique festivals and events leading all the way up to Christmas!
And, with a vacation rental from Marina Hawaii Vacations, you’ll have a central location for all the excitement! So if this sounds like a dream come true, read on for some of our top suggestions!
1. Waikiki Beach
Located right near our vacation rentals is the world-famous Waikiki Beach. More than 4 million tourists come to Waikiki Beach every year, but the benefit of visiting in the fall is that it’s the off-season, and fewer folks are dotting the shore. So, lie out, relax, jump in the waves, or take a surfing lesson!
Does it cost anything to go to Waikiki Beach?
No! Visitors and locals all enjoy free admission to the beach.
2. Snorkel at Hanauma Bay
One of the most beautiful experiences in Honolulu is visiting Hanauma Bay, a volcanic cone harboring a vibrant coral reef and diverse marine life. Fall is a great time to explore, with fewer crowds, making it ideal for snorkeling and easier to secure a reservation!
- Reservations: Yes - A limited number of visitors are permitted each day, so reservations are required.
- Entrance Fee: $25
- Parking Lot Fee: $3.00
- Snorkel Gear Rentals: $25
- Location: Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, 7455 Kalanianaole Hwy, Honolulu, Hawaii
3. Hike the Diamond Head and Manoa Falls Trails
With the cooler temperatures, hiking becomes an even more enjoyable experience! Honolulu is home to several stunning hikes that will take your breath away.
Diamond Head State Monument
Diamond Head State Monument is a unique crater that was formed over 300,000 years ago during a volcanic eruption. The 0.8-mile hike takes you to the summit, which overlooks Honolulu and provides gorgeous views.
- Reservations: Yes
- Entrance Fee: $5
- Parking Fee: $25
- Location: 4204 Diamond Head Rd, Honolulu, Hawaii
Manoa Falls Trail
Manoa Falls Trail is a lush trail that winds through rainforest and ends at the base of a 150-foot waterfall. It also served as a filming location for Jurassic Park and Lost, making it a must for TV and film fans!
- Reservations: No
- Entrance Fee: No
- Parking Fee: $5
4. Whale Watching
Did you know winter is the best time for whale watching? That’s because over 15,000 Humpback whales migrate from Alaska to Hawaii starting in December! If you want to see these majestic creatures, it is the perfect time!
Some of our favorite whale watching companies include:
5. Honolulu Ghost Tours
October means it’s time for some spooky, scary fun - just in time for Halloween! Honolulu is jam-packed with history, and wherever you find history, you find ghost tours! We’ve compiled a couple of our faves here.
Mysteries of Hawaii: Discover Honolulu's original ghost tours, where you’ll hear about Hawaii’s haunted history, making for a spine-tingling good time.
Honolulu Haunts: Join a Honolulu ghost tour and learn about the mythical Night Marchers (ancient warriors who roam the darkness) and explore haunted royal grounds. You’ll be sure to get goosebumps!
6. Pearl Harbor National Memorial
Visiting the Pearl Harbor National Memorial is essential for history buffs on vacation. It honors over 2,300 lives lost in the December 7, 1941, attack, which marked the United States’ entry into World War II. Plus, touring around the anniversary date makes the experience even more meaningful.
If you’re looking for a fantastic tour experience, we’ve teamed up with Adventure Tours to offer guided tours of Pearl Harbor!
- Reservations: No, for the Visitor Center. Yes, for the USS Arizona Memorial
- Location: Pearl Harbor National Memorial, 1 Arizona Memorial Place, Honolulu, Hawaii 96818
7. Authentic Tiki Bar Crawl
As days get shorter, it’s the perfect time to explore Honolulu’s nightlife and hunt down an authentic tiki bar. It’s also a great way to spend date night! Tiki drinks are known for their tropical flavors and colorful and elaborate presentations. Finding authentic Tiki drinks in Honolulu might be the tastiest jaunt on this list!
La Mariana Sailing Club
La Mariana Sailing Club has welcomed friends and visitors since 1955, making it the oldest tiki bar in Hawaii!
- Location: 50 Sand Island Access Rd, Honolulu, Hawaii 96819
Skull and Crown Trading Co.
Skull and Crown Trading Co. is a Chinatown cocktail bar that brings a charming mix of mystery and enchantment! It serves up classic tiki drinks along with some unique signature cocktails that are sure to impress.
- Location: 62 N Hotel St, Honolulu, Hawaii 96817
8. Festivals!
Fall brings a slew of festivals to Honolulu. These assorted celebrations center on Hawaiian culture, diversity, food, wine, and more! If you want to immerse yourself in Hawaii's traditions, lifestyle, and heritage, these festivals are wonderful portals into this magical place.
Aloha Festivals
Aloha Festivals are multicultural festivals held every September since 1946 in Hawaii. They feature parades, cultural displays, and Hawaii’s largest annual block party in Waikiki.
- When: September 6-27, 2025
Honolulu Pride
Each October, Honolulu Pride honors the LGBTQIA community’s strength, perseverance, and joy. Celebrate in paradise!
- When: October 16-18, 2025
- Location: This festival happens all over the city!
- Fee: The parade is free! Otherwise, each event has its own fee. Check the website for details.
Hawaii Food and Wine Festival
Hawaii's largest food and wine festival features global tastemakers, including Michelin-starred chefs and renowned winemakers, showcasing the best ingredients Hawaii has to offer!
- When: October 30 – November 2, 2025
- Fee: You can buy tickets for each event separately
- Location: This festival happens all around the city!
9. Honolulu City Lights
Every December, Honolulu City Lights transforms the city into a magical winter wonderland! You’ll find a stunning 55-foot illuminated Cook Pine tree, cheerful giant holiday figures, enchanting lighted tunnels, and beautifully lit trees everywhere you look.
- When: Opening night is Saturday, November 29, 2025. It is then open daily from 8 AM to 10 PM through December.
- Fee: Free!
- Location: Frank F. Fasi Civic Grounds 650 S King St, Honolulu, Hawaii 96813
10. Museums
If you’d prefer to stroll indoors, learn, and contemplate, you should explore Honolulu’s many museums! The city's incredible variety of museums showcases everything from art to history and unique collections. There's something for everyone to enjoy!
Honolulu Museum of Art
The Honolulu Museum of Art showcases an impressive collection of over 55,000 artworks, including pieces by Monet and van Gogh. It also proudly highlights the talents of local Hawaiian artists, making it a great place to explore both famous and homegrown art!
Admission:
- Adults: $25
- Children: Free
Location: The Honolulu Museum of Art, 900 South Beretania Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96814
Iolani Palace
Did you know that the Iolani Palace is the only royal residence in the United States? It is! It was built in 1882 by King Kalakaua and was home to the last monarchs in Hawaii. It is a special place honoring Hawaii’s incredible history.
- Admission: $26.95-$32.95 (depending on which tour you take)
- Location: 364 South King Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96813
Bishop Museum
Last on our list is the Bishop Museum. This is Hawaii's largest museum, focused on natural and cultural history and with extensive Hawaiian and Pacific collections. If you have been craving to learn more about native Hawaiian heritage, this is the place to go!
Admission:
- Adult: $38.95
- Senior: $35.95
- Youth: $30.95
Location: 1525 Bernice Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96817
Book Your Fall or Winter Vacation Today!
Featured Rental: Ilikai Tower 1216
Now that you're acquainted with the top 10 things to do in Honolulu during the fall and winter, escape to the heart of Hawaii with Marina Hawaii Vacations. Our rentals are located just a stone’s throw from the famous Waikiki Beach, offering the ultimate convenience.
There are just so many reasons to book with us! First, our oceanfront condos have amenities such as full kitchens, private lanais, pools, and fitness centers. Second, you will receive personal support from our on-site team, who are available to assist you at any time of day. Finally, in addition to the lower rates you'll see this time of year, if you book directly with us, you’ll avoid those pesky third-party fees you would incur if you booked with Airbnb or VRBO! Now those are some great perks!
So, if you’re ready for your Hawaii vacation, browse our vacation rentals and book your unforgettable island escape to experience the aloha spirit! Explore our rentals today!
See All Honolulu Vacation Rentals
FAQ's: Things to Do in Honolulu in Fall and Winter
Which of these activities are family-friendly?
With the exception of a tiki bar crawl, all of these activities are family-friendly. Use your discretion when it comes to outdoor activities and ghost tours, though; you know your kids best! For more tips on traveling with kids, check out our ultimate mom's guide!
Which of these activities are free?
Visiting Waikiki Beach, stopping by the Pearl Harbor Visitors Center, attending the Honolulu Pride Parade, and viewing the Honolulu City Lights are all free! Additionally, hiking the Manoa Falls Trail is free, but parking is $5.