The allure of Hawaiʻi’s swaying palm trees, glistening waters, warm sunshine and rich culture have drawn travelers to the Aloha State since the turn of the 20th century. In fact, the Hawaiʻi Bureau of Information began promoting tourism in 1892, and it worked: Adventurers sailed to the islands and stayed in new hotels, including the Moana Hotel (now the Moana Surfrider), the “First Lady of Waikiki,” built in 1901.

By 1941 a record 31,846 visitors arrived on the islands. Fast forward more than 80 years, and 9.64 million people visited the Hawaiian Islands in 2025; 5.67 million of them on Oʻahu, the most populated of the island chain with just more than 876,000 residents. The island is home not only to Honolulu, the state capital, but also popular destinations such as Waikīkī, Diamond Head and Pearl Harbor. It also serves as an important business, financial and education center and a major transportation hub with its port and international airport.

All of this makes Oʻahu and Honolulu a dynamic destination, one that continues to evolve to meet the needs of its residents and those who visit the city and island.

“Over the past several years, I have seen Honolulu become more focused, more resilient and more forward-thinking,” said Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi. “We have made real progress modernizing how the city operates, investing in long-overdue infrastructure, and tackling the challenges like housing, homelessness and public safety with a stronger sense of urgency and coordination.

Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman © Courtesy of Outrigger Resorts & Hotels

“At the same time, there has been a renewed appreciation for community. Residents are more engaged in shaping the future of their neighborhoods, and that connection between government and community has helped us move forward together.”

Travelers are more engaged, too, according to Monica Salter, vice president, Global Communications and Social Responsibility, Outrigger Hospitality Group. “Honolulu has evolved with intention; in recent years the focus has shifted from volume-driven tourism to a more values-led visitor economy,” said Salter. “The conversation is now centered on culture, environmental stewardship and community impact. It’s less about how many visitors we welcome and more about how we welcome them.”

For example, she noted in Waikīkī design and dining have become more rooted in place. “The generic ‘tropical’ aesthetic has shifted to authentic Hawaiian materials, local artisans and storytelling that reflects the history of this land,” said Salter. “Hawai‘i-based chefs and restaurateurs are shaping a culinary scene that feels distinctly local. Neighborhoods like Kakaʻako have developed a creative, entrepreneurial energy, while citywide investment reflects a long-term commitment to safeguarding what makes Honolulu special.”

Part of that citywide investment involves updates to Honolulu’s public transportation system, including Skyline, a rail system connecting the city. A 5-mile expansion began operations in October 2025, adding four new stations to the route, including one at Daniel K. Inouye Honolulu International Airport. Visitors can also ride TheBus’ new W Line with frequent, limited- stop service between the airport and the beaches of Waikīkī.

“The expansion of Skyline is transforming how people think about transportation and development across O‘ahu,” said Blangiardi. “We are seeing new affordable and workforce housing projects moving forward; revitalization efforts in neighborhoods like downtown and Iwilei; and continued investments in parks, cultural spaces and community programs.

© Courtesy of Outrigger Resorts & Hotels

“What excites me most is the momentum,” he continued. “There is a growing sense that Honolulu is evolving into a more connected, livable and sustainable city while still holding onto the aloha spirit that defines us.”

Looking ahead, Blangiardi believes Honolulu is entering a period of thoughtful growth with continued investment in housing, especially transit-oriented communities connected to Skyline, along with improvements to parks, public spaces and core infrastructure that make everyday life better for residents.

“Our goal is to grow in a way that preserves what makes Honolulu special while creating more opportunity for local families to live, work and thrive here,” he said. “The future is about balance, honoring our culture and environment while embracing innovation and smarter urban planning.”

Additionally, Outrigger Hospitality Group’s Salter thinks Honolulu’s next chapter will be defined by stewardship and sophistication, and that regenerative tourism will continue to guide development with coral reef preservation, shoreline restoration and climate resilience at the forefront.

“Sustainability here is not a trend; it’s a necessity that informs infrastructure, policy and hospitality operations,” she said. She also hopes the visitor experience will become more seamless. “Ideally, technology will enhance airport arrivals and hotel stays, but in balance with the warmth of Hawaiian hospitality,” said Salter. “Waikīkī, in particular, is evolving beyond its traditional beach identity into a more complete urban resort district that integrates arts, culinary depth and walkability.”

As far as what he recommends visitors do when they come to Honolulu, Blangiardi shares what he suggests to his friends and family. “I always tell visitors to slow down and truly experience the beauty of this place and all it has to offer,” he said. “Whether it’s the ocean, the mountains, the food, or the strong sense of community, Hawai‘i has a way of helping you reset and reconnect with what matters most.

“There is an old Hawai‘i Visitors Bureau tagline that says it perfectly: ‘You come for the beauty, but you stay for the people.’ That spirit of aloha is what makes Honolulu unforgettable.”

SCENIC DRIVES
Sitting on the south side of the island, Honolulu offers a good place to begin plenty of scenic drives around O‘ahu. Driving around the island’s circumference of about 180 miles takes about eight hours without stops … but you will definitely want to stop along the way. Instead, choose one destination and make the most of it; just be sure to fill up on gas before hitting the road, as stations may be infrequent.

O‘ahu’s North Shore is known for its massive surf breaks in the winter months, but its coastline is worth a visit any time of year. Follow H-2 from Honolulu through the middle of the island for the most direct route. Once you’ve arrived on the North Shore, take time to explore the 7 miles of legendary shoreline and Hale‘iwa, a chill surf town with shops, boutiques, art galleries and laid-back restaurants, including Matsumoto’s for shaved ice.

To get the lay of O‘ahu’s land, head east from Honolulu for the island’s Windward Coast. Along this coastline you will see deep valleys, towering cliffs, waterfalls and plenty of quiet beaches. For a bit of cinematic adventure, stop by Kualoa Ranch, the filming location of Jurassic Park and Lost, among other movies and TV shows.