If you find yourself with a long layover in Honolulu, just remember, there are worse things. But layovers can be a drag, especially when all you want to do is get to Maui and snorkel, golf, whale watch, or enjoy some amazing Hawaiian cuisine. Instead of mindlessly sitting in some terminal at the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport—also known as Honolulu International Airport—waiting for your next flight, take advantage of what Honolulu has to offer.
We’ve pulled together some of the top places to visit during your long layover, including some spots to eat, shop, and explore. It’s a great way to make your trip that much more memorable.
Top Places to Visit During a Layover
Diamond Head Market & Grill
This local favorite offers a variety of Hawaiian comfort food, including plate lunches, poke bowls, and burgers. It’s a casual atmosphere with friendly service providing a wonderful local lunch. With a 4.5 Google star rating and over 2,000 reviews, Diamond Head Market & Grill is a great spot to get lunch and still have time for other activities.
Distance from Daniel K. Inouye International Airport: Around 15 to 20 minutes
Leonard’s Bakery
Leonard’s Bakery is known for their malasadas (Portuguese doughnuts), breads, and pastries. Leonard’s Bakery is a must-visit for any food lover. The bakery has been serving up delicious treats since 1952 and has been a staple shop in Honolulu. With over 11,000 reviews on Google, Leonard’s holds a 4.6 Google star rating as a highly rated place on the island.
Distance from Daniel K. Inouye International Airport: Around 15 minutes
ʻIolani Palace
This historic palace was the official residence of Hawai’i’s monarchy and is beautifully preserved with cultural artifacts. Open Tuesday through Saturday, the palace offers guided and self-guided tours that last around 60 to 90 minutes. If you do choose to tour this wonderful landmark, you have to reserve your tickets in advance. If your layover allows, ʻIolani Palace is a brilliant reminder of the history of the Hawaiian monarchy and the island.
Distance from Daniel K. Inouye International Airport: Around 15 to 20 minutes
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
For nature lovers, Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is a marine life conservation district home to some of the amazing wildlife of Hawai’i. With a $25 dollar entry fee to the park, it is open from Wednesday to Sunday, from 6:45 a.m. until 4 p.m. You can use a ride sharing service or drive on your own, which will cost $3 (parking does fill up quickly so keep that in mind).
Before you enter the park, all visitors must watch a 9-minute video about conservation and safety rules, so factor that into your time as well. Depending on how much time you have, you can lounge among nature or walk around, offering a nice excuse to get out and see a natural wonder on the island.
Distance from Daniel K. Inouye International Airport: Around 30 to 40 minutes
Waikīkī Beach Walk
We can’t forget about shopping and the Waikīkī Beach Walk is the ultimate place to do it. An open-air, two-level shopping mall with stores and restaurants is the best way to kill time while waiting out your layover. Along with award-winning places to dine and unique local spots to shop, the mall also has weekly activities and performances providing a full entertainment experience. The Waikīkī Beach Walk is open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. every day.
Distance from Daniel K. Inouye International Airport: Around 20 to 30 minutes
Practical Tips for a Layover in Honolulu
There are a few things to consider as you prepare for your layover in Honolulu. Knowing how much time you have in between flights is crucial. It is practical to get around depending on where you’re heading. If you don’t have enough time or desire to rent a car, some places do have bus or shuttle access from the airport. Ride-sharing is also a viable option and provides a more direct route. Once you’re back at the airport, security is fairly efficient. It does depend on the time of day and time of year you’re traveling so plan accordingly.
If any activities or reservations need to be made in advance, you’ll definitely want to do that to avoid any booking issues once you’re actually in Honolulu. If there are any packing or transportation considerations to take care of, working that out before your trip is definitely advised. (And please pack reef-safe sunscreen regardless of what you do to protect the environment.)
Once you land in Maui, come see us at the Maui Ocean Center. In the spirit of booking in advance, get your tickets today so when you arrive, all you have to worry about is having fun.
When traveling to Maui there will never be a shortage of things and places to see. Make sure you’re always abiding by local and cultural laws when exploring the natural beauty of Maui and most importantly, relax! That’s what you came to do after all.
