Honolulu & Waikiki: Overview

Hawaii's cultural and state capital is a cosmopolitan brew frothed with surf.

Despite Honolulu's skyscrapers and traffic jams, it's one of the most laid-back urban centers in America. Add sandy beaches, waving palms and the balmy weather of Waikiki and you've got a great mix of sun-fun and culture, best enjoyed with a multiethnic plate lunch.

It might be part of the USA, but tropical Honolulu is more laid-back than any mainland capital. With its blend of sunny charm and legislative gravitas, the downtown area is surprisingly fascinating to explore - make the effort to drag yourself away from the Gidget-and-mai-tai scene of Waikiki.

Travel Warning: Carry-on Baggage Restrictions

Restrictions on airline carry-on baggage are in place throughout the US. For details check the Transport Security Administration website.

severity: Mid-level alert

Fast Facts

Population

400,000

Currency

Name: US Dollar
Code: USD
Symbol: US$

Electrical Plugs

American-style plug with two parallel flat blades above a circular grounding pin Japanese-style plug with two parallel flat blades
110V 60Hz

Languages Spoken

Essential: English

Time Zones

GMT/UTC -10 (Hawaiian Time)

Country Dialing Code

+1

Weights & Measures

Imperial

USA - Free Guidebook Chapter

USA - Pick & Mix Chapters

Download the free Getting Started chapter or buy individual chapters from our USA guide, in our online Shop.
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