Honolulu, the capital city of Hawaii, is a tropical paradise that paints a unique blend of rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and a laid-back island vibe.
Among its myriad attractions, the city is home to a network of streets that serve as the lifelines of urban life, each with its own character and charm.
In this article, I will walk you through some of the most popular streets in Honolulu, delving into the history, culture, and attractions that make them integral to the fabric of this Pacific metropolis.
Kalakaua Avenue
Kalakaua Avenue is first up on our list, and everyone’s favorite in Honolulu,. No exploration of Honolulu’s popular streets would be complete without a stroll down Kalakaua Avenue.
This bustling thoroughfare, often referred to as the “Rodeo Drive of the Pacific,” runs through the heart of Waikiki, the city’s famous tourist district. This avenue was named after King Kalakaua, who was the last king of the Hawaiian kingdom.
Lined with an array of upscale shops, trendy boutiques, and gourmet restaurants, Kalakaua Avenue is a shopping and dining haven. You can bring your own vehicle here, but for longer and free parking, you’ll need to park near Ali’i Drive or Front Street.
The avenue also hosts various events, including parades, festivals, and the iconic Honolulu City Lights celebration during the holiday season.
Perfect For: Budget exploring, Shopping, Family outings, Photo sessions.
Kuhio Avenue
If you are on a budget, Kuhio Avenue is a must-visit destination. It is a popular street in Honolulu, Hawaii, especially for tourists.
It’s a competitor to Kalakaua Ave, situated near the beach. Kuhio Avenue is great for people on a budget because you can find cheaper shopping, eating, and places to stay. Even though you won’t have an ocean view, hotels here cost much less than those on Kalakaua Ave.
Some big projects have made Kuhio Avenue more exciting. One of the most important is the International Market Place, which covers 4.5 acres. You can start your walk at the David Kalākaua Statue and see statues of Hawaiian royalty like Princess Kaʻiulani and King Kalākaua along the way.
It’s honestly a nice place to explore!
Perfect For: Budget exploration, Dining, Shopping.
Ala Moana Boulevard
Stretching along the southern shore of Oahu, Ala Moana Boulevard is a scenic coastal route that connects Waikiki to downtown Honolulu.
This street offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and is home to the Ala Moana Beach Park, a popular spot for visitors and locals alike.
The boulevard also hosts the Ala Moana Center, one of the largest open-air shopping malls in the world. From luxurious brands to local boutiques, Ala Moana Boulevard seamlessly blends retail therapy with the natural beauty of the Hawaiian coastline.
Perfect For: Shopping, Family outing.
Kapiolani Boulevard
Now, for those looking for a balance between the liveliness of Waikiki and the local flavor of Honolulu, Kapiolani Boulevard offers the perfect blend.
Kapiolani Boulevard has an impressive walk score, making it a Walker’s Paradise where you can accomplish daily needs without needing a car.
This dynamic street serves as a way to Waikiki and is known for its diverse culinary scene, featuring a wide range of eateries offering everything from traditional Hawaiian cuisine to international flavors.
It is also home to the Neal S. Blaisdell Center, a multi-purpose arena that hosts concerts, events, and performances, contributing to the street’s cultural vibrancy.
To spend some more time, you can visit the Kapiolani Regional Park, that situated 2.4 miles from Kapi’olani Boulevard.
Kapiolani Park holds the title of being one of the largest and the second oldest public park on the island of Oʻahu, with Honolulu Zoo and Waikiki Shell situated inside it.
Perfect For: Leisure walk, Hawaiian cuisine, Culture exploration.
International Market Place
To experience the traditional Hawaiian culture and enjoy The International Market Place, Honolulu is a vibrant and iconic destination. This place blends cultural heritage, shopping, dining, and entertainment in the heart of Waikiki.
The International Market Place is a fancy shopping center in Waikiki. It has fancy stores, including brands like Rolex, Michael Kors, and more.
There are also multiple dining options with food from around the world. You can also take part in events where you can make flower necklaces. The mall is right in the middle of Waikiki and is well-liked for its pretty tropical plants and amazing views.
This is an open-air shopping center and a renowned marketplace that has undergone significant transformations throughout its history while also preserving its historical charm.
Perfect For: Family outings, Shopping, Dining, Historical exploration.
King Street
Though I’ve placed it quite later in this list, King Street remains one of the two main streets in central Honolulu, Hawaii.
It’s a bustling area filled with historic sites, dining options, and nightlife. This well-known street has been a central hub in Honolulu for many years, featuring a blend of historical landmarks, restaurants, cafes, shops, boutiques, and family-friendly attractions.
It’s worth a wander for its eclectic collection of stately government edifices. The main highlight of this street is Iolani Palace, the luxurious 19th-century home of the last Hawaiian monarchs.
Next door is the Hawaii State Library, a striking early 20th-century building home to half a million books. The Honolulu City Hall, the Kawaiahaʻo Church, and the Aliʻiolani Hale are also worth a look. The Hawaii Pacific University and Aloha Tower mark the southern end.
While you’re still downtown, take the time to check out Bishop Street, the city’s central financial hub. In the whole of Honolulu, it’s this place where you can see suits and ties outnumbering boardshorts and plastic leis – it’s mostly a locals-only affair.
Perfect For: Family outing, Photo session, Historical exploration.
Queen Street
Now, it’s time for some business! Queen Street is the one place in Honolulu that you can’t visit unless you have a reason to be here. It can be pretty easy to ignore this street, especially among famous streets like King Street or Ala Moana Boulevard.
When talking about the distance, Queen Street is a short road, only 1.4 miles long. It’s a back street, useful for quickly getting between Ala Moana Center and downtown. While coming here, don’t bother to bring your car as you may not find any ideal parking space here. And even if you do, you still might have to walk.
You can pretty much walk to any place on Queen Street if you put your mind to it. The street is worth exploring and learning more about it. Coming to its name, Queen Street got its name from Queen Kalama, who was married to King Kamehameha III. Back in 1843, it was the street closest to the shoreline.
Queen Street is known as a street that preserves the city’s architectural heritage. It is lined with charming buildings that date back to the 19th century, exuding a nostalgic atmosphere.
It is home to the Hawaii State Capitol, Aliiolani Hale, and the Kawaiahao Church, all of which contribute to the street’s significance in Hawaiian history and culture.
As you walk down Queen Street, you’ll find yourself immersed in the stories of the past, beautifully juxtaposed against the modern urban landscape. If you want to take a piece of Hawaii home, don’t forget to visit the souvenir shops here.
Perfect For: Historical exploration, Walking around, Photo session.
Bishop Street
Moving away from the glitz of Waikiki, Bishop Street stands as the financial heart of Honolulu. Located in the downtown business district, this street is filled with towering skyscrapers that house the headquarters of major financial institutions and corporate offices.
The historic Iolani Palace, the only royal palace in the United States, is also located nearby, adding a touch of regality to the area. Bishop Street encapsulates the city’s economic pulse and provides a stark contrast to the leisurely beach culture found in other parts of Honolulu.
Perfect For: Experiencing Hawaii royalty, Family outings, Photo sessions.
North Beretania Street
North Beretania Street runs through the heart of Honolulu’s Chinatown. It is a vibrant neighborhood spanning 15 blocks, packed with Asian restaurants and shops.
As per my knowledge and the stories I’ve heard, Chinese immigrants were the pioneers of this street who arrived in Hawaii during the 19th century to work on sugar plantations. Once their contracts were completed, they started a thriving merchant community in this lively district.
Over the years, Chinatown has evolved into a melting pot, welcoming people from various Asian backgrounds, including Japanese, Malaysians, Koreans, Filipinos, and Vietnamese.
Despite enduring two separate fires that destroyed many original structures, Chinatown still retains its original Far Eastern allure.
The Chinatown Cultural Plaza stands as the main focal point, offering a blend of flavorful Asian cuisines, vendors selling fragrant incense, and stalls offering herbal teas. Also, when you’re here, be sure not to overlook the vibrant Buddhist shrines, contributing to the lively atmosphere of the area.
Perfect For: Asian culture exploration, Photo session, Family outing, Trying Asian cuisine.
Chinatown
Now, since I’ve mentioned Chinatown, you’ll be curious to know what exactly this place is. Honolulu’s Chinatown centered around Maunakea Street, is a cultural kaleidoscope where history, art, and cuisine converge.
Chinatown is a historic district providing a delightful way to spend your afternoon. It’s an excellent blend of the old and the new, where traditional markets coexist with stylish art galleries.
You can take a leisurely stroll through Maunakea Marketplace, where you can discover exotic fruits and traditional herbs and even observe the making of noodles.
See people-watching and enjoying at River Street Pedestrian Mall and capture a photo of the iconic Hawaii Theater nearby.
You can easily reach this area by taking the Waikiki Trolley tour or joining a Hawaii food walking tour led by an expert who will guide you to all the must-try eateries in the vicinity.
This bustling neighborhood showcases a mix of Chinese, Japanese, Filipino, and other Asian influences, creating a vibrant and eclectic atmosphere.
Perfect For: Asian cuisine, Art exploration, Historical exploration, Photo session.
Waialae Avenue
Waialae Ave. Honolulu, HI, is a place where I like going frequently. The avenue is close to the Polynesian Residences. If you are staying in this area, you can have quite a nice time strolling around.
Waialae Avenue is the main street in Kaimuki, which can be quite intriguing. Some of the places that stand out here are Kahala Mall, Zippy’s Kahala, Kaimuki Community Park, Long’s Drugs, City Mill, Okata Bento, Jamaican Irie Jerk, City Mall, and Kaimuki Grill.
Exploring this area will surely get you away from the urban hustle and immerse you in the laid-back charm of Waialae Avenue in Kaimuki. The area boasts a unique character, with tree-lined streets, eclectic boutiques, and a mix of local eateries.
Waialae Avenue is a haven for food enthusiasts, featuring a diverse array of dining options, from traditional Hawaiian plate lunches to innovative fusion cuisine.
The historic art-deco-style Waialae Theatre adds a touch of nostalgia to the area, creating a delightful blend of old and new.
Perfect For: Casual outing, Modern & Ancient Hawaii exploration, Photo session.
Royal Hawaiian Center
Located in Waikiki, the Royal Hawaiian Center is a huge shopping center close to the beach. Due to its easy access, this makes it a convenient stop for those exploring the famous shoreline. It is also within walking distance of other popular attractions in the area.
Here, you can find and shop from various luxury stores such as Hermes, Valentino, and Fendi. If you want to take with you some local attires or fashion elements, there are local boutiques also available.
The center has more than 100 eateries and shops to explore (make sure to keep aside one full day). It’s undoubtedly a famous destination for the residents of Hawaii and tourists alike to tour around the place shopping and eating.
Perfect For: Family outings, Shopping, Dining, Experiencing the culture, Entertainment options.
Kapahulu Avenue
Situated five minutes away from the eastern end of Waikiki, Kapahulu Avenue is the gateway to one of Honolulu’s most iconic landmarks, Diamond Head.
This eclectic street is a melting pot of local culture, where you can find a huge variety of cuisine from all around the world. The street features a mix of traditional Hawaiian eateries, modern cafes, and quirky boutiques.
Kapahulu Avenue is known for its diverse culinary offerings, including the famous Leonard’s Bakery, renowned for its malasadas, a Portuguese doughnut delicacy. As you explore Kapahulu Avenue, you’ll experience the authentic flavors of Honolulu away from the bustling tourist hubs.
Whether you’re craving sushi, gourmet burgers, Japanese, Chinese, Thai, or a generous serving of Hawaiian food, Kapahulu has it all. With a range of dining options, from upscale restaurants to quick bites, you’ll definitely want to bring your appetite on your next trip to Kapahulu.
Perfect For: Family & friends outing, Dining.
Kailua Farmer’s Market
Whether you reside in Hawaii or are just visiting, Kailua’s Farmers Market is the best place to get your organic and fresh fruits and vegetables for a healthy lifestyle.
The Kailua Farmers’ Market is a weekly market where you can buy fresh local fruits, vegetables, meat, and seafood. The market is open on Thursdays from 4PM to 7:30PM.
You can shop from this market that runs all year long. The main focus of the vendors selling here is to offer locally grown produce from Hawaii. And TBH, during my stay here, I try to buy stuff from this local market rather than from supermarkets.
But the best part about this market is that other than food items, you can also enjoy live Hawaiian music, making your walk even more enjoyable.
The market offers a good variety of food and drink options, as well as vendors selling produce, tea, and honey. You’ll find ample parking space so you can come here in your own vehicle also. If you’re in the area, I highly recommend a visit to this market.
Perfect For: Shopping for fresh fruits and veggies, Enjoying live music.
Waikiki Beach Walk
The Waikiki Beach Walk is basically a shopping mall, which is a great destination featuring numerous boutiques and restaurants. It hosts weekly yoga, hula dance, and concerts.
The Waikiki Beach Walk has a variety of shops, world-class restaurants for a quick bite, and resorts on the streets leading to the actual beachfront, just a few blocks away.
Although it’s not right on the beach, this beach walk is a must-experience stroll in Waikiki, running along the soft sandy Royal-Moana Beachfront, bordered by nostalgic and historic resorts.
Kick off your shoes or sandals and feel the therapeutic and gentle massage of the sand beneath your toes and arches as you connect with Mother Earth.
Here, you can enjoy the rhythmic splash of the ocean waves on your feet and legs before taking a refreshing dip.
Throughout the walk, you’ll be treated to fantastic views of Diamond Head, clouds, ocean waves, and fellow beachgoers, creating a memorable experience from sunrise to sunset.
Perfect For: Leisure walking, Hawaiian experience, Beach walking, Photo session.
Ala Moana Park Drive
Yes, I may have mentioned Ala Moana, but this is something different. Ala Moana Park Drive encircles Ala Moana Park, the most preferred local hangout and family-friendly recreational space.
Residents of Honolulu enjoy having barbecues at the shady picnic area, and active visitors can make use of facilities like tennis courts and a yacht club.
If shopping and dining are on your agenda, the vast Ala Moana Center is conveniently located next to the park. Make sure to step off the road to stroll along the golden sands of Ala Moana Beach before taking a side trip to Magic Island, a beautiful artificial peninsula.
Its pristine, sheltered lagoon offers calm waters for kids to play in, and there’s plenty of green grass to spend a leisurely day.
Perfect For: Beach walking, Shopping, Family outing.
Merchant Streets
Merchant Street is like an outdoor museum that gives you a peek into Honolulu’s fascinating architectural past. This area used to be the financial center of the city, and it still showcases the impressive buildings from the 19th and 20th centuries.
Here, you can see some of the famous historic places of unique styles like Italianate, Mission Revival, and Richardsonian Romanesque.
As you walk around, you can learn about the changes that took place in Honolulu, with century-old buildings standing next to modern high-rises.
There are many charming old buildings to explore, but two stand out – the Melchers Building and the Kamehameha V Post Office. They’re worth checking out if you’re interested in the history and architecture of the area. I assure you, you’ll get really good vibes here!
Perfect For: Historical exploration, Architectural exploration, Photo session.
Nu’uanu Avenue
Yes, Honolulu, Hawaii, may be known for its stunning views, but what it’s also known for is its high-lifestyle with a cool vibe.
Nu’uanu Avenue is right in the heart of Honolulu’s arts district and is a cool area that shows off the city’s creative and bohemian side.
In the past, it was popular with a lot of crime happening around. But with time it’s now become one of the trendiest parts of the city. You’ll find beautiful art galleries, stylish boutiques, and trendy cafes.
If you’re into live shows, the Hawaii Theatre Center is the place to go. For community arts, you can check out the ARTS at Marks Garage.
If high tea is something that excites you, enjoy it at Tea at 1024. It’s a bit of a Honolulu tradition with its Victorian-era decorations, quirky dishes, and delicious scones.
If you happen to be there on the first Friday of the month, make sure not to miss the artsy street party. It’s an open-air event with performances, promotions, and lots of late-night fun.
Perfect For: Family & friends outings, Nightlife, Dining, Entertainment options.
FAQs
How does Kuhio Avenue differ from Kalakaua Avenue in Waikiki?
Kuhio Avenue offers a slightly more relaxed vibe. It features hotels, shops, and eateries, providing a lively yet less hectic and more budget friendly atmosphere compared to Kalakaua.
Is it easy to get around these popular streets?
Yes, these streets are generally pedestrian-friendly, and there are also public transportation options available. Many visitors enjoy walking to explore the vibrant surroundings.
Can you tell me more about Waikiki Beach Walk?
Waikiki Beach Walk is a lively pedestrian-friendly street featuring shops, restaurants, and entertainment. It’s adjacent to Waikiki Beach and provides a fantastic blend of beach vibes and urban experiences.
Explore Every Nook And Corner Of Honolulu!
All these popular streets mentioned here offer a diverse and captivating glimpse into the heart and soul of this Pacific paradise. Whether it is the glamorous shopping districts of Kalakaua Avenue or the historical charm of Queen Street and the cultural richness of Chinatown, each street contributes to the vibrant tapestry that defines Honolulu. From the bustling urban energy to the serene coastal views, each of these streets unveils a unique essence of Honolulu, where tradition and modernity seamlessly coexist in a tropical haven.
