Oahu Sightseeing – Downtown Honolulu

With so many places to visit on Oahu, finding the right mix of sites can be a challenge. You will want to make sure that you’re able to take in the best panoramic views of the island and the ocean, plus be able to see the historic sites that Oahu is famous for. Throughout Downtown Honolulu, there are numerous historic sites that tell the story of Hawaii. Structures that harken back to the days of Hawaii’s monarchy and the earliest arrivals from Europe are found within walking distance of each other, and are the places that you will just have to see when you’re here.

Oahu Sightseeing – Historic Downtown Honolulu
Iolani Palace
Probably the most widely recognized of the historic sites in downtown Honolulu, the Iolani Palace is the only royal palace in the United States. It is also the location of the illegal overthrow of the Kingdom of Hawaii and where Queen Liliuokalani was held as a prisoner. A tour of the Iolani Palace shows how stunning the interior of the palace is, and shares very interesting information, like the fact that Iolani Palace had electricity even before the White House.

Ali’Iolani Hale
 Found just across the street from Iolani Palace, Ali’iolani Hale is where you will find Oahu’s statue honoring King Kamehameha the Great. The building is a stunning structure and is currently the home of Hawaii’s Supreme Court. You might recognize the structure from Hawaii 5-0, in which it is used as the headquarters for the show.

Kawaiaha’o Chruch & Mission Houses
Just down King Street from Iolani Palace is the most famous church in Hawaii. Not only is it a beautiful structure, it is made entirely of coral that was quarried from Oahu’s South Shore. Learning about the construction of the church is mind-blowing, and if you have the chance to enter the building, definitely do so. The mission houses are found on the grounds of the church and are the same homes that were used by missionaries upon their arrival to Hawaii.

Punchbowl National Cemetery of the Pacific
Offering one of Oahu’s most amazing views, the Punchbowl National Cemetery of the Pacific is a military cemetery, the final resting place of soldiers from all branches of military, covering many wars. Murals at the cemetery depict many battles from World War II, the Korean War, and Vietnam, and the history that is found here is remarkable. Don’t forget to stop for pictures of Oahu as you exit.

Downtown Honolulu’s historic sites are can’t miss on your trip, and can be visited during the day, leaving time at night for your authentic Oahu luau. Hawaii’s history is very important, and a day spent discovering downtown Honolulu’s historic sites is a day well spent.

Due to the high volume of visitors traveling to Hawaii year round, our Oahu luaus and activities sell out quickly. In many cases, tours sell out weeks or months in advance. To ensure your spots on tour, we recommend reserving your tours today. Call our office or book online to take advantage of our low price guarantee today.