Hickam Housing HawaiiATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Hickam Housing, Hawaii.
1. Hickam Beach
ON-BASE TROPICAL PARADISE
Hickam Beach offers military families access to a great beach experience without leaving the base, allowing visitors to escape the crowds at nearby Waikiki. Visitors can learn how to surf, play beach volleyball, or simply relax under the tropical sun with amenities including party pavilions for rent, restrooms, and showers. Lifeguards are stationed on the beach during weekends, and a surf shack provides affordable beach equipment rentals.
2. Honeymoon Beach
PRIVATE SECLUDED LAGOON
Honeymoon Beach is a private lagoon located just off Hickam Beach that can be rented for gatherings of up to 150 people. The secluded area comes with a lifeguard and picnic facilities, with alcohol permits available through the Hickam Harbor office. Rentals are available for up to five hours between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., with controlled gate access for privacy and security.
3. Hickam Harbor
WATER RECREATION HUB
Hickam Harbor serves as the central location for various water activities including sailing, watercraft rentals, swimming, and sunbathing. Visitors can enjoy picnicking facilities and participate in organized recreation activities and tours. The harbor offers a comprehensive outdoor experience for military personnel and their families.
4. Hickam Heritage Trail
HISTORICAL WALKING TOUR
The Hickam Heritage Trail offers a two-hour self-guided walking tour of Hickam's historical landmarks, starting and finishing at the JBPH-H Library. The trail showcases the base's architectural integrity and planning concepts from the 1930s, providing valuable insights into military lifestyle and mission from that era. Visitors can explore this National Historic Landmark District while learning about its significance to Hawaii's military history.
5. Pearl Harbor National Memorial
HISTORIC WWII SITE
Pearl Harbor National Memorial commemorates one of the most pivotal moments in US history, the December 7, 1941 attack that propelled America into World War II. Visitors can explore the USS Arizona Memorial, USS Bowfin Submarine Museum, and the Battleship Missouri Memorial. The site offers moving exhibits, historical artifacts, and educational programs that honor those who served and sacrificed.
6. Waikiki Beach
ICONIC HAWAIIAN SHORELINE
Waikiki Beach is a world-famous two-mile stretch of white sand coastline that attracts visitors from around the globe. The beach offers opportunities for surfing, swimming, canoe paddling, and sunbathing against the backdrop of Diamond Head crater. Bordered by hotels, restaurants, and shopping, Waikiki provides a complete Hawaiian vacation experience just minutes from Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam.
7. Ala Moana Shopping Center
PREMIER SHOPPING DESTINATION
Ala Moana Shopping Center is one of the world's largest open-air shopping centers, featuring over 350 stores and restaurants. Shoppers can find everything from luxury brands to local specialty items across its expansive four-level complex. The center also hosts regular cultural events, Hawaiian entertainment, and has a beautiful center stage area.
8. North Shore
LEGENDARY SURF PARADISE
The North Shore of Oahu is renowned worldwide for its legendary surf breaks and laid-back beach town atmosphere. During winter months, professional surfers flock to beaches like Pipeline, Sunset Beach, and Waimea Bay to ride waves that can reach 30 feet high. Visitors can enjoy watching surf competitions, exploring charming Haleiwa Town, and sampling fresh Hawaiian shrimp from the famous food trucks.
9. Diamond Head State Monument
ICONIC VOLCANIC CRATER
Diamond Head State Monument features a 760-foot tuff crater that is one of Hawaii's most recognized landmarks. Hikers can follow a 0.8-mile trail to the summit, where panoramic views of Waikiki and the Pacific Ocean await. The site holds historical significance as a military lookout point and features bunkers and a navigational lighthouse.
10. Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
PROTECTED MARINE SANCTUARY
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is a protected marine life conservation area formed within a volcanic crater that offers some of Hawaii's best snorkeling. Visitors can swim among colorful coral reefs teeming with more than 400 species of fish, including Hawaii's state fish, the humuhumunukunukuapua'a. The preserve includes educational programs about marine conservation and requires first-time visitors to watch an informational video before entering the bay.
11. Polynesian Cultural Center
LIVING POLYNESIAN MUSEUM
The Polynesian Cultural Center showcases the cultures of six Pacific Island nations through interactive exhibits, demonstrations, and performances. Visitors can paddle canoes, learn traditional crafts, taste authentic cuisine, and watch the spectacular evening show 'Hā: Breath of Life' featuring over 100 performers. The 42-acre facility allows guests to experience the rich heritage of Polynesia in one location.
12. Iolani Palace
AMERICA'S ONLY ROYAL PALACE
Iolani Palace is the only royal palace on U.S. soil and served as the official residence of Hawaii's monarchy from 1882 to 1893. The meticulously restored palace features original furnishings, royal artifacts, and innovative amenities that were ahead of their time, including electricity and telephones. Guided tours offer insights into Hawaii's royal heritage and the complex history of the Hawaiian Kingdom's overthrow.
13. Leonard's Bakery
FAMOUS PORTUGUESE MALASADAS
Leonard's Bakery has been a beloved Honolulu institution since 1952, famous for introducing malasadas—Portuguese fried dough treats—to Hawaii. The bakery offers these delicious pastries in various flavors, including original sugar, cinnamon sugar, and filled options like custard and chocolate. Visitors often line up around the block for these warm, fresh treats that represent Hawaii's multicultural food heritage.
14. Giovanni's Shrimp Truck
ICONIC NORTH SHORE EATERY
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck is a legendary North Shore food destination known for its garlic shrimp plates served from a white truck covered in visitors' signatures. The simple menu focuses on perfectly prepared shrimp dishes, particularly the signature Shrimp Scampi, smothered in garlic and butter. This no-frills roadside attraction has become an essential culinary stop for both tourists and locals exploring Oahu's North Shore.
15. Kualoa Ranch
JURASSIC PARK FILMING LOCATION
Kualoa Ranch is a 4,000-acre working cattle ranch and popular film location featured in movies such as Jurassic Park, Jumanji, and 50 First Dates. Visitors can explore the stunning landscape through various tours including ATV adventures, horseback riding, zipline experiences, and movie site tours. The ranch offers breathtaking views of the Koolau mountain range and Kaneohe Bay while showcasing Hawaii's natural beauty and agricultural heritage.