The Honolulu Hot List
A sprawling metropolis with seaside skyscrapers and a lively arts scene, Honolulu has become the Islands' mecca for gourmet munchies, music, and design.
Nicknamed "The Gathering Place", this vibrant city on the island of O‘ahu offers a unique experience of traditional Hawaiian culture that, over time, has been beautifully melded together with various international influences - making it a highly-sought out destination for travelers all over the world.
Whether you're looking to relax on the beach, immerse yourself in Hawaiian history and culture, or explore the hottest restaurants in town, Honolulu offers a little bit of everything for you to enjoy. To help you decide where to go next, we've put together a list of our favorite shops, food, and sights to see around town.
Places To Stay
Kaimana Beach Hotel
This recently renovated boutique hotel is locally-owned and super cool.
Laylow Waikiki
Off the beaten path of Kalākaua Avenue, this boutique hotel is perfect for the luxury shopaholic because of its close proximity to the International Market Place.
‘Alohilani Resort:
The pools in this hotel oasis are unmatched. They’re a favorite among visitors and locals alike.
Where To Eat
Kapa Hale
Chef Keaka Leeʻs modern interpretation of Hawai‘i Regional Cuisine using local produce and ingredients..
Miro Kaimuki
This French-inspired cuisine by local boy, Chef Chris Kajioka is c'est magnifique.
et al.
A full-service restaurant and bar located in Kahala MKT.
Papa Kurtʻs
This nostalgic saimin stand by chef Chris Kajioka is an ode to one of his and chef Mark Noguchiʻs mentors Kurt Hirabara.
Iliili Cash and Carry
The culinary homies that brought you the V-Lounge teamed up with Fittedʻs Keola Rapozo to bring you a legit pizza and hoagie spot.
The Daley Burger
Smash burgers made with grass-fed, local beef coupled with crinkle-cut fries will make want it on the daily.
Fort Ruger Market
Get the Simply Amazing Poke Bowl with fresh Ahi Ahh-Mazing Ginger Poke, Lechon‘ and Seaweed Salad over white rice then tell us “mahalo” later.
Merriman's Honolulu
The latest restaurant by Chef Peter Merriman has an incredible happy hour (3-4 p.m.). Go early then roll the good times through to an amazing dinner.
Where To Shop
OluKai, Hilton Hawaiian Village
Stop in and say 'aloha' to our OluKai ‘ohana! Shop Island-only exclusives and check out our store events calendar to participate in cultural activities like lei making and lauhala weaving.
Pua Hana
The sister shop to Paiko is the spot to get a beautiful bouquet or lei of tropical flowers in Kaimukī.
Everyday Better by Green Meadows
This econ-conscious sells homeware and gifts with old-fashioned sensibilities with a modern aesthetic.
Salvage Public
This Hawaiian-designed sportswear has a store in the South Shore Market in Ward.
Sig On Smith
Only open on Friday, this Aloha Shirt store in Chinatown has exclusive clothes by the legendary artist Sig Zane.
Fitted Hawai‘i
This is the coolest place to buy a hat in Hawai‘i, period.
What To See
‘Iolani Place
A restored icon of Hawaiian national identity that was once home to the royal family from King Kamehameha III to Queen Liliʻuokalani, and is t
he only royal palace on U.S. soil.
Chinatown
Head into Chinatown for some deliciously authentic dim sum and fresh lei around every corner.
Shangri La
Modernist design mingles with impressive Islamic décor from Middle Eastern and Indian artisans at this seaside estate of American tobacco heiress Doris Duke.
Bishop Museum
Step inside the world's largest collection of Polynesian cultural artifacts in the historic Kalihi district of Honolulu.
Where To Grab A Drink
Bar Leather Apron
A trendy, dimly lit bar in downtown Honolulu with speakeasy-vibes alongside exceptionally inventive craft cocktails.
Bevy
An artsy, industrial-chic locale that serves up bespoke craft cocktails and eclectic small plates in the vibrant neighborhood of Kaka‘ako.
Hideout at the Laylow
This open-air bar and lounge always has mesmerizing DJs coming through like Aloha Got Soul.
Hau Tree
Possibly the best brunch spot in Waikīkī right on Kaimana Beach. Need we say more?
Blind Ox
Speakeasy with craft cocktails and a great selection of whiskey.
Off The Wall Craft and Beer
Head here for the latest beers from a variety of local breweries with delicious pūpū.
Rigo
Tapas and vino like you were in Europe, but youʻre still in paradise.
