Cheap Flights To Honolulu

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Cheap Flights To Honolulu

Overview
When to Go
Airport Information
Weather
Things to Do
Local Attractions
Must See Sights
Insider Tips
Getting Around

Overview
Honolulu is the main hub of urban activity on the island of O'ahu, or what can be considered urban in a land of calming ocean breezes, swaying palm trees and a peaceful island demeanor. Locals and visitors alike flock to Honolulu when they're seeking exciting nightlife, glamorous shopping areas and a dose of culture in its ethnic enclaves.

Honolulu is a great place to start for those who have never visited the Hawaiian Islands and aren't sure of what kind of Hawaii experience they want. While the white beaches stretch out as far as the eye can see and warm waves beckon you to relax and splash around until the sun goes down, the city also provides renowned restaurants, designer boutiques and historical landmarks to please any type of traveler in your party.

Although Honolulu, the state's capital, has a powerful metropolitan aura about it, you'll still get a good sense of the islands' natural beauty. Just a short drive away from the center of downtown Honolulu takes you to Diamond Head, a challenging hike up a volcanic peak that ends in a breathtaking view that visitors often rave about for years afterwards.

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When to Go
High Season
Since the weather conditions are pretty amazing in Honolulu year-round, most people flock to this destination when they want to get away from the miserable weather at home. You'll find that hotel and flight rates are pricier in the winter months, from December until March or April.

Low Season
You'll find cheaper flights to Honolulu if you're more open-minded about when you want to go, and after all, temperatures can be about 10 degrees higher with less rainfall around August and September, making for better beach conditions.

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Airport Information
Honolulu International Airport (HNL)
Distance: 9 miles north of downtown Honolulu
Drive time: 13 minutes

Unless you're stopping by as part of a cruise, chances are that you'll arrive in Honolulu by air - it's on an island, after all. The good news is that you're more likely to find cheap airline deals to O'ahu rather than to the less populated islands of Maui or Kauai. Honolulu International Airport is the largest and busiest of all of the airports on the Hawaiian Islands, so you should be sure to leave time for unexpected delays or long lines, especially during high traffic morning or early afternoon hours.

You should also expect to have your luggage examined by the Department of Agriculture when you arrive and leave the island. Almost no fruits are allowed into the U.S. - certain pineapple, coconut and papaya products are exempt. Certain flowers, insects and animals are banned as well. Be sure to check on the airport website for specific restrictions.

You'll find major car rental services working out of the airport, as well as hotel shuttles and taxis. You can also hop on the aptly named public transportation system "The Bus," which has several lines that take you throughout Honolulu.

There are always cheap flights to Honolulu, Hawaii that can be found. You can get cheap airline tickets from Los Angeles to Honolulu International Airport (HNL) starting just under $300 US. Flying in from the east coast will cost a bit more. There are still cheap airline tickets available from New York to Honolulu starting just over $500 US.

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Weather
Like the rest of the United States, Honolulu's coldest months are usually in December or January. Unlike the rest of the world, however, these "cold months" can mean highs between 70F and 80F - not what most of us would consider to be a chilly winter. Honolulu's hottest months are between August and September, when the temperatures can reach above 90F.

You'll notice a tropical climate in Honolulu, with surprising rain bursts throughout the day, especially in the winter months. As long as you're flexible about your day, these warm, tropical showers shouldn't dampen your trip too much.

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Things to Do
Hit the Beach
The city boasts some of the most gorgeous beaches and pleasant weather in the world. The city actually only has one beach to offer, the Ala Moana Beach Park - but don't worry, it's huge. You'll find picnic areas, lifeguards and year-round activities fit for the whole family.

Chinatown and Downtown
Between trips to the beach, the city of Honolulu has plenty of other activities to offer. From the city's expansive Chinatown district, where you can pick up cheap and delicious dim sum, to the delightful mix of historic and modern in Honolulu's downtown area, you'll find that just a few hours of walking around the city will provide volumes in education about the city's culture.

Shopping
For the shopaholic travelers out there, Honolulu has plenty to offer as well. From traditional malls like the Aloha Tower Marketplace, you'll find everything you could ever want to take back to friends and family.

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Local Attractions
The 'Iolani Palace
Don't pass up the chance to see the only royal residence in the United States. The 'Iolani Palace, located in downtown Honolulu, is a breathtaking representation of the Hawaiian Kingdom's last two monarchs, King Kalakaua, who built the Palace in 1882, and his sister and successor, Queen Lili`uokalani. At the palace, you'll see the king and queen's thrones as well as the stunning architecture and grounds of the palace.

Foster Botanical Garden
On an island known for its natural beauty, it's a truly breathtaking experience to see all of Honolulu's most gorgeous flora in one place. The Foster Botanical Garden in Honolulu's Chinatown displays some of the areas most rare and near-extinct plants and trees, with guided tours available daily.

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Must See Sights
Pacific Aviation Museum
When it comes to history, there's no beating Pearl Harbor. The most visited attraction on O'ahu, Pearl Harbor offers several parts to take in: The USS Arizona memorial, the USS Missouri and the USS Bowfin submarine museum and park, as well as the Pacific Aviation Museum.

Kamehameha I Statue
To feel truly at one with the island, pay a visit to the Kamehameha I statue in downtown Honolulu on King Street. One of four versions, the statue represents the Hawaiian chief, known to some as the "Napoleon of the Pacific," who helped to bring the once-warring islands together to form a union. If you find yourself by the statue on June 11, the king's birthday, be sure to stop by for the parade to honor the chief and the impressive lei that is placed upon the statue.

Must Do: Luau
Don't let the cliche factor keep you from experiencing the magic of a luau. Although most take place outside of the city center, many hotels offer shuttle services and will book reservations for you. Once there, you'll be treated to scrumptious traditional Hawaiian food, usually buffet style, and a night of lively shows, including beautiful hula dancers and drummers. One of the most popular and highest rated is the Paradise Cove Luau set on the western shores of Oahu.

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Insider Tips

Decide how far you want to wander when you're on the island of O'ahu. If you plan on staying within Honolulu exclusively, you'll probably be fine with taxis and shuttles. However, if you plan on exploring the island more, you may want to consider renting a car for your convenience.

Keep an eye on traffic conditions as well. As relaxed as the people of Honolulu may seem, they live a city life like any other major metropolitan area. Rush hour traffic can add significant travel time.

Keep an eye on safety. Although almost all parts of Honolulu are completely safe to wander during daytime, it's important to know which parts of the city require caution once the sun goes down. A'ala Park in downtown Honolulu, for example, has a significant homeless population at night, so it's wise to ask around about areas like this and be extra careful.

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Getting Around
Again, it's important to lay out what it is you'd like to do during your time in Honolulu in order to plan your transportation accordingly. For the most part, you can get around the city center, beach and main attractions by taxis, hotel shuttles and on foot. Different hotels offer different shuttle services to airports and attractions like Pearl Harbor or the beach, so check in with them before deciding to rent a car.

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