The allure of Hawaiʻi’s swaying palm trees, clear waters, warm sunshine and vibrant culture has drawn travelers to the Aloha State for well over a century. The Hawaiʻi Bureau of Information began promoting tourism in 1892, and its efforts helped turn the islands into a sought-after destination. Early visitors stayed at landmark properties such as the Moana Hotel (now the Moana Surfrider), the “First Lady of Waikiki,” which opened in 1901.
Visitor numbers have grown dramatically since those early days. By 1941, a record 31,846 visitors arrived on the islands. More recently, the Hawaiian Islands welcomed 9.64 million visitors in 2025, including 5.67 million to Oʻahu, the most populated island with just over 876,000 residents. Oʻahu is home to Honolulu, the state capital, as well as iconic destinations like Waikīkī, Diamond Head and Pearl Harbor. The island also functions as a regional center for business, finance, education and transportation, anchored by its port and international airport.
These factors make Oʻahu and Honolulu a dynamic, evolving destination that continues adapting to the needs of residents and visitors alike.
“Over the past several years, I have seen Honolulu become more focused, more resilient and more forward-thinking,” said Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi. “We have made real progress modernizing how the city operates, investing in long-overdue infrastructure, and tackling challenges like housing, homelessness and public safety with a stronger sense of urgency and coordination.”
Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman © Courtesy of Outrigger Resorts & Hotels
“At the same time, there has been a renewed appreciation for community. Residents are more engaged in shaping the future of their neighborhoods, and that connection between government and community has helped us move forward together.”
Travelers are becoming more intentional, too, according to Monica Salter, vice president of Global Communications and Social Responsibility for Outrigger Hospitality Group. “Honolulu has evolved with intention; in recent years the focus has shifted from volume-driven tourism to a more values-led visitor economy,” Salter said. “The conversation now centers on culture, environmental stewardship and community impact. It’s less about how many visitors we welcome and more about how we welcome them.”
In Waikīkī, design and dining increasingly reflect local identity. “The generic ‘tropical’ aesthetic has shifted to authentic Hawaiian materials, local artisans and storytelling that honors the history of this land,” Salter noted. Hawaiʻi-based chefs and restaurateurs are shaping a culinary scene that feels distinctly local. Neighborhoods like Kakaʻako have developed creative, entrepreneurial energy, while citywide investments signal a long-term commitment to preserving what makes Honolulu special.
Part of the city’s investment plan includes improvements to public transportation, such as Skyline, the rail system serving Honolulu. A five-mile expansion began operations in October 2025, adding four new stations to the line, including one at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport. Travelers can also use TheBus’ new W Line, offering more frequent, limited-stop service between the airport and Waikīkī’s beaches.
“The expansion of Skyline is transforming how people think about transportation and development across Oʻahu,” Blangiardi said. “We are seeing new affordable and workforce housing projects moving forward; revitalization efforts in neighborhoods like downtown and Iwilei; and continued investments in parks, cultural spaces and community programs.”
© Courtesy of Outrigger Resorts & Hotels
“What excites me most is the momentum,” he added. “There is a growing sense that Honolulu is evolving into a more connected, livable and sustainable city while still holding onto the aloha spirit that defines us.”
Looking ahead, Blangiardi expects Honolulu to enter a period of thoughtful growth, with continued investment in housing—especially transit-oriented developments near Skyline stations—along with enhancements to parks, public spaces and core infrastructure that improve daily life for residents.
“Our goal is to grow in a way that preserves what makes Honolulu special while creating more opportunities for local families to live, work and thrive here,” he said. “The future is about balance: honoring our culture and environment while embracing innovation and smarter urban planning.”
Salter envisions Honolulu’s next chapter as one defined by stewardship and sophistication, guided by regenerative tourism practices that prioritize coral reef protection, shoreline restoration and climate resilience.
“Sustainability here is not a trend; it’s a necessity that informs infrastructure, policy and hospitality operations,” she explained. She also anticipates technology will streamline traveler experiences—improving airport arrivals and hotel stays—while preserving the warmth of Hawaiian hospitality. “Waikīkī, in particular, is evolving beyond its traditional beach identity into a fuller urban resort district that integrates arts, deeper culinary offerings and enhanced walkability.”
When visitors ask what to do in Honolulu, Blangiardi gives the same advice he shares with friends and family: slow down and fully experience the island. “Whether it’s the ocean, the mountains, the food or the strong sense of community, Hawai‘i helps you reset and reconnect with what matters most,” he said. “There is an old Hawai‘i Visitors Bureau tagline that captures it perfectly: ‘You come for the beauty, but you stay for the people.’ That spirit of aloha is what makes Honolulu unforgettable.”
SCENIC DRIVES
Honolulu, situated on Oʻahu’s south shore, is an ideal starting point for many scenic drives around the island. Driving the full 180-mile circumference without stops takes roughly eight hours, but most travelers prefer to select one area to explore in depth. Be sure to fuel up before heading out, as gas stations can be infrequent in some stretches.
The North Shore is famous for its winter surf, but the coastline is rewarding year-round. The most direct route from Honolulu is via H-2 through the island’s interior. Once on the North Shore, explore seven miles of famed shoreline and spend time in Haleʻiwa, a relaxed surf town with shops, galleries and casual eateries—don’t miss Matsumoto’s for shaved ice.
To understand Oʻahu’s dramatic landscapes, head east from Honolulu to the Windward Coast. This coastline features deep valleys, towering cliffs, waterfalls and a string of serene beaches. Visit Kualoa Ranch for a cinematic sense of the island; the ranch has been a filming location for productions such as Jurassic Park and Lost, offering guided tours and outdoor experiences that showcase the island’s natural beauty.