10 Fun Things to Do for Free in Honolulu

Honolulu is an incredible city that has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an exciting adventure, Honolulu has it all. The best part? You don’t have to break the bank to have fun. Here are 10 fun things to do for free in Honolulu.

1. Take a Walk on the Beach

Honolulu is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful stroll or a more energetic beach jog, Honolulu’s beaches are the perfect place to get some exercise and enjoy the fresh air. Plus, there’s no cost to access the beach!

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can explore the tide pools and rock formations along the shore. There are plenty of interesting creatures to observe, including sea stars, crabs, and even octopuses!

Don’t forget to take a few minutes to soak up the Hawaiian sun. There’s nothing like a beautiful sunset or a romantic walk on the beach to make your day complete.

2. Visit the Honolulu Zoo

The Honolulu Zoo is a great way to get up close and personal with some of the world’s most exotic animals. From tigers and lions to elephants and giraffes, the Honolulu Zoo is home to more than 1,200 animals from all over the world.

The best part is, admission to the Honolulu Zoo is free! You can take a leisurely stroll through the zoo and observe the animals in their natural habitat. You can also take advantage of the educational programs and interactive exhibits, which offer a unique and fun way to learn about the animals.

The Honolulu Zoo is open every day of the year, so you can plan your visit any time you like.

3. Enjoy a Picnic at Kahala Beach

Kahala Beach is one of Honolulu’s most popular beaches. It’s the perfect spot for a leisurely picnic or a romantic sunset dinner. The beach is surrounded by lush, tropical foliage and the sparkling blue waters of the Pacific Ocean.

Pack a picnic lunch and head to Kahala Beach for a relaxing day. You can sit back and enjoy the scenery, go for a swim, or take a leisurely stroll along the shore. And don’t forget to take a few minutes to watch the sun set over the horizon.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the waters around Kahala Beach. There’s nothing like an afternoon on the water to make you feel alive.

4. Explore the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific

The National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific is a powerful reminder of the sacrifice made by those who have served in the United States military. The cemetery is located in the Punchbowl crater and is home to more than 37,000 graves of those who have served in the US Armed Forces from World War I to the present day.

The cemetery is open to the public every day of the year, and admission is free. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the cemetery and read the stories of the fallen heroes. It’s a powerful and humbling experience that everyone should experience.

The cemetery also hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, including a Memorial Day ceremony and a Veterans Day flag ceremony. These events are free and open to the public.

5. Take a Hike on the Makapu’u Trail

The Makapu’u Trail is one of the most popular hiking trails in Honolulu. The 5-mile round-trip hike offers spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean, Koko Head, and the nearby islands. It’s a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the beauty of nature.

The trail is well-marked and easy to follow. You can take your time and stop along the way to take in the stunning views. Be sure to bring plenty of water and wear appropriate shoes for the hike.

The hike is free, but be sure to check the weather before you go. The trail can be slippery when wet, and it’s best to avoid hiking in the rain.

6. Enjoy the Views from Diamond Head

Diamond Head is one of the most iconic landmarks in Honolulu. The extinct volcano is a popular destination for hikers and sightseers alike. The hike to the top is fairly easy (just under a mile) and offers spectacular views of the city and the Pacific Ocean.

The best part is, admission to the park is free! You can explore the grounds and take in the stunning views at your own pace. Be sure to bring a camera to capture the breathtaking views from the summit.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take a guided tour of the interior of the volcano. The tour is offered on a first-come, first-served basis and is free of charge.

7. Watch a Free Movie in Waikiki

Waikiki is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Honolulu. Every Friday night, the Waikiki Beach Walk hosts a free movie night on its outdoor screen. You can bring your own snacks or purchase food from one of the nearby restaurants.

The movie lineup changes every week, so be sure to check the schedule before you go. There’s something for everyone, from family-friendly movies to classic films. It’s the perfect way to spend a Friday night in Waikiki.

If you’re looking for something a little more lively, you can also check out the free live music and hula performances on the Waikiki Beach Walk on Saturday nights.

8. Explore the Honolulu Museum of Art

The Honolulu Museum of Art is one of the most popular museums in the city. The museum features artwork from all over the world, including paintings, sculptures, and photography. It’s a great way to learn about different cultures and appreciate the beauty of art.

The best part is, admission to the museum is free! You can explore the galleries at your own pace and take in the incredible artwork. Be sure to check out the museum’s special exhibitions, which feature rotating works from all over the world.

The museum also offers free tours of the galleries and special events throughout the year. It’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon in Honolulu.

9. Take a Surf Lesson

Surfing is one of the most popular activities in Honolulu. If you’ve always wanted to try it, now is your chance! Many of the local surf shops offer free lessons for beginners. Just sign up and they will provide you with all the equipment you need.

The lessons usually last about two hours and are taught by experienced instructors. You’ll learn the basics of surfing, from paddling and popping up to safety tips and wave etiquette. After the lesson, you can rent a board and hit the waves!

Surfing is a great way to get some exercise and explore the waters of Honolulu. Plus, it’s a lot of fun!

10. Watch a Hula Show

Hula is a traditional Hawaiian dance that tells a story through movement and music. The Hula shows are a great way to learn about the culture and history of Hawaii. Plus, they’re a lot of fun to watch!

The best part is, many of the hula shows in Honolulu are free! You can find free shows at Waikiki Beach, Ala Moana Beach Park, and Kapiolani Park. You can also check out the free performances at the Hilton Hawaiian Village and the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center.

The shows are usually held in the evenings, so be sure to check the schedule before you go. It’s the perfect way to spend an evening in Honolulu.

Conclusion

Honolulu is an incredible city with something for everyone. From beach walks and hikes to hula shows and art galleries, there are plenty of free activities to enjoy in Honolulu. So don’t miss out! Get out and explore all that Honolulu has to offer.