Honolulu is the capital and largest city of Hawaii. Located on the island of Oʻahu, it serves as the cultural, economic, and governmental heart of the state. It is known for its tropical climate, iconic beaches, and role in U.S. military and Pacific history.
Overview
- Population: ~345,000 (over 1 million in the island-wide metro area)
- Nickname: The Crossroads of the Pacific
- Founded: Became capital of the Kingdom of Hawaii in 1845
- Geography: Situated on the southeastern coast of Oʻahu in the Central Pacific
Landmarks and Attractions
- Waikīkī Beach – world-famous beachfront district
- Diamond Head crater and hiking trail
- ʻIolani Palace – former royal residence
- Pearl Harbor National Memorial and USS Arizona
- Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
- Bishop Museum and Honolulu Museum of Art
Economy
Honolulu’s economy is driven by:
- Tourism – a global vacation hotspot
- Military and defense – home to Pacific Command
- Government and education
- Shipping and inter-island logistics
Culture and Lifestyle
- Strong Native Hawaiian traditions and language preservation
- Blend of Polynesian, Asian, and Western cultures
- Laid-back island lifestyle with deep respect for ʻāina (land) and ʻohana (family)
- Hosts hula festivals, surfing competitions, and Hawaiian music events
Education and Research
- University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa
- Centers for marine biology, volcanology, and astronomy
- Cultural institutions preserving Hawaiian heritage
Transportation
- Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL)
- TheBus – award-winning public transit system
- Newly developed Skyline rail system
- Honolulu Harbor – major Pacific shipping port
Fun Facts
- Honolulu is the most remote major city on Earth — over 2,300 miles from the U.S. mainland
- The only royal palace on U.S. soil is in Honolulu
- Surfing, once banned by missionaries, originated in ancient Hawaii and thrives here today