This updated guide highlights four accessible Honolulu attractions: the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor, family-friendly snorkeling at Hanauma Bay, the scenic Tantalus/Round Top Drive, and the historic Iolani Palace. Plan ahead for timed-entry tickets or reservations at some sites, bring reef-safe sunscreen for Hanauma Bay, and check tour schedules and fees before you go.

Overview

Honolulu offers accessible, family-friendly attractions that showcase Hawaiian history, natural beauty, and great city views. Here are four well-loved stops on Oʻahu that remain popular with visitors and locals.

USS Arizona Memorial and Pearl Harbor

Visit the Pearl Harbor National Memorial to see the USS Arizona Memorial, a solemn site that rests above the sunken battleship where 1,177 service members lost their lives on December 7, 1941. The memorial and visitor center convey the events of that day through exhibits and the brief boat ride to the site.

Timed-entry tickets are required for the Arizona Memorial; they are managed by the National Park Service, and nearby attractions such as the USS Missouri and USS Bowfin have separate admission or tour fees .

Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve

Hanauma Bay remains one of Oʻahu's best places for easy snorkeling and family beach time. The bay is a protected marine life conservation area with a large variety of reef fish and coral in a horseshoe-shaped cove.

Visitors must view a short educational orientation before entering the bay to help protect the reef and wildlife. The preserve limits daily visitor numbers and uses a reservation/entry system during peak periods to reduce crowding and environmental impact 1. Plan for early arrival and bring reef-safe sunscreen, reef-friendly swimwear, and basic snorkel gear (rentals are available nearby).

Scenic Drive: Tantalus and Round Top Drive

For a quick escape from the urban core, drive up Tantalus (Round Top Drive) for sweeping views over Honolulu and Diamond Head. The route winds through verdant, forested slopes and offers several roadside lookouts and picnic spots, including Puu Ualakaa State Park viewpoints.

This drive is especially pleasant around sunrise or sunset. Roads are public and free, but take care on narrow or winding stretches and watch for pedestrians and cyclists.

Iolani Palace

Iolani Palace, the former royal residence of the Hawaiian monarchy and the only official royal palace in the United States, showcases restored state rooms, furnishings, and historical exhibits.

Guided and self-guided tours are available; admission fees support preservation and programming 2. Tours provide context on the monarchy, the 1893 overthrow, and the palace's restoration.

Tips for Visiting

  • Book Pearl Harbor and Hanauma Bay reservations or timed tickets in advance during busy seasons.
  • Bring reef-safe sunscreen and follow marine-protection rules at Hanauma Bay.
  • Drive Tantalus slowly and use designated pullouts for photography.
  • Check current hours and tour schedules for Iolani Palace before you go 3.
  1. Confirm current ticketing process and whether USS Arizona Memorial timed-entry tickets are free or have fees; verify booking link/process.
  2. Verify admission fees, reservation requirements, operating hours, and closure days for Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve.
  3. Confirm admission fees, guided tour availability, and current opening days/hours for Iolani Palace.
  4. Check whether USS Missouri and USS Bowfin charge separate admission fees and current prices or reservation requirements.

FAQs about Honolulu Attractions

Do I need tickets to visit the USS Arizona Memorial?
Yes. The memorial uses timed-entry tickets managed through the National Park Service; nearby Pearl Harbor sites may have separate admissions or tour fees .
Can I snorkel at Hanauma Bay without a reservation?
Hanauma Bay uses an entry and education system and may require reservations or limit daily visitors during busy periods. You must view the required orientation before entering the water .
Is Tantalus Drive suitable for a rental car or tour?
Yes. Tantalus (Round Top Drive) is a public scenic route with lookout points and picnic areas. Drive carefully on winding sections and use pullouts for photos.
Are tours required at Iolani Palace?
Tours are not always required but are strongly recommended. The palace offers guided and self-guided options; admission fees support maintenance and programs .
What should families bring to Hanauma Bay?
Bring reef-safe sunscreen, swimwear, towels, water, and basic snorkel gear (or rent locally). Follow conservation rules to protect marine life.

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