Kakaako is one of Honolulu’s most vibrant neighborhoods. You can find this hidden gem just minutes from Waikiki, filled with bold street art, local eats, and great photo ops.
Kakaako Arts District
Near Downtown
Found between Waikiki & Downtown.
Constant change
The murals in Kakaako are refreshed.
All ages & Abilities
Everybody loves a Kakaako trip.
Various choices
See as we drive or stop & explore.
Sample local flavor
Variety of food & refreshment options.
Tour Guide & Founder
Over the last decade guiding guests in Kakaako, Iʻve seen a lot of changes. But the Hawaiian cultural themes, marine life, and large-scale portraits created by local and international artists are always a treat.
Tour Guide & Founder
Over the last decade guiding guests in Kakaako, Iʻve seen a lot of changes. But the Hawaiian cultural themes, marine life, and large-scale portraits created by local and international artists are always a treat.
Kakaako street art district
Kakaako is a local favorite for families, photographers, and art lovers. Bold murals, food trucks, and small local shops make it a fun stop for anyone exploring beyond the usual sights.
Popular photo areas include murals near SALT, Cooke Street, Auahi Street, and Coral Street. It’s an easy addition to nearby Downtown.
Visit highlights like the royal Iolani Palace or Chinatown, then head to Kakaako. TV fans might recognize scenes from Hawaii Five-0 or Magnum P.I.
Kakaako Street Art Tour
Found just a few blocks from the King Kamehameha Statue, Kakaako offers a unique window into modern Hawaiian culture. The SALT district serves as the neighborhood’s gathering place for food, art, events, and local businesses.
| Detail | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Site Type | ✓ Outdoor street art district and mural zone |
| Experience | ✓ Large-scale murals, urban art, and photography |
| Visit Style | ✓ Drive through or self-guided walking exploration |
| Complexity | ✓ Easy grid-style, paved accessible streets |
| Time Needed | ✓ Approximately 30–90 minutes on foot |
| Best Use Case | ✓ Photography, casual strolls, and creative exploration |
| Peak Conditions | ✓ Best lighting for photos mid-morning or late afternoon |
- Operating Hours: Businesses from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm
- Road Closures: Some filming and street festivals
- Special Events: Often found at SALT or nearby spots
- Parking Costs: There are fees to park at in Kakaako
- SALT Address: 691 Auahi St, Honolulu, HI 96813
- From Waikiki: 15-25 minute drive, 30-45 minutes by bus
- From Ko Olina: 45 min - 1 hr drive, 2 hr bus (transfer)
- From Turtle Bay: 90 minute drive, 3 hr bus (Transfer)
Similar activities & places
From vivid murals to great coffee, Kakaako adds color and character to your time in historic downtown Honolulu. So it is a perfect way to experience the creativity of modern Hawaii. Especially when paired with local bites or a visit to other historic gems nearby.
But wait, there’s more. Click the button to discover even more historic Downtown location.
These are the top nearby activities and location options available on this featured tour.
Kakaako in Honolulu
Kakaako is easily accessible and can be explored as a walking tour or a quick scenic drive as part of a private Pearl Harbor tour. The area is flat and walkable, with plenty of spots to grab refreshments and public parking nearby.
Pearl Harbor Tour
-
Group rates from
$799
- Pearl Harbor National Memorial
- 2-3 exhibits + City or visit all
- 9 hour custom private tour
Oahu Transfer Tour
- Up to 7 guests w/ luggage
- Choose from any tour route
- 9 hour custom private tour
About the Kakaako area
Looking for that cool, creative side of Oahu? Kakaako is where modern Hawaii meets urban street culture and itʻs just a few blocks from the Aloha Tower Marketplace. There is something new to discover every time you visit. Scroll down for quick answers to common visitor questions.
Where is Kakaako and how do you get there?
What makes Kakaako different from other places?
What are the hours and best times to visit Kakaako?
Do you need a reservation or permit for the district?
Are there rules or restrictions to know at Kakaako?
Interested in exploring more of Oahu’s creative side? We’ll help you build the perfect itinerary, from street art to studio stops and everything in between. We can combine your visit to Kakaako with other cultural gems around Honolulu, like the Bishop Museum in Kalihi.
Explore Routes
Pick from iconic destinations like Pearl Harbor, the North Shore, or a majestic Circle Island adventure to perfect your getaway!
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Enjoy a half-day excursion or a full-day adventure. You can go all out with a sunrise-to-sunset tour and make the most of your day.
Must See Stops
Customize your private tour with family favorites, local cuisine, shopping, hiking, and visits to some of the best island beaches.
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Want to make the most of your visit? Head to the Things to Do in Oahu Blog for route ideas, photo tips, and local favorites that go beyond the usual guidebooks.
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We’ve brought guests from around the world through this neighborhood. Itʻs next to the cruise terminals and not far from the airport. Plus, the Childrenʻs Discovery Center is located just a few blocks away.
More tours for Downtown Honolulu
From massive portraits and ocean-inspired scenes to abstract patterns and political art, each mural tells its own story. This neighborhood is an easy addition to nearly any custom Oahu private tour. Combined with the area’s trendy cafes, breweries, and shops, it’s a great way to experience the Honoluluʻs modern urban vibe.
Pearl Harbor Tour
-
Group rates from
$699
- Pearl Harbor National Memorial
- 1 Memorial + City or 2 Memorials
- 6 hour custom private tour
Circle Island Tour
-
Group rates from
$799
- Circle the Koolau Mountains
- 1-2 activities + 3-5 photo stops
- 9 hour custom private tour
Oahu Transfer Tour
- Up to 7 people w/ their bags
- Choose any routes or location
- 12 hour custom private tour
Need help choosing the right mix of sightseeing and relaxation? Try our tour match quiz or scroll down to customize your own perfect day on Oahu.
