Visit Downtown Honolulu

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

Once an industrial area, Kakaako has transformed into an outdoor art gallery thanks to events like POW! WOW! Hawaii. An annual international mural festival brings artists to paint new works on neighborhood walls each year. Whether you walk or drive through, the murals make a striking impression.

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.

More information about

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.

Whether you’re hunting for the perfect photo or local flavors, there’s something for every taste. It’s an easy addition to nearby Downtown.

Visit highlights like Iolani Palace, Aloha Tower, or Chinatown, then head to Kakaako. TV fans might recognize scenes from Hawaii Five-0 or Magnum P.I.

Featured excursions for

Kakaako in Honolulu

Kakaako is easily accessible and can be explored as a walking tour or a quick scenic drive as part of Your Private Tours. The area is flat and walkable, with plenty of spots to grab refreshments and public parking nearby.

Pearl Harbor Tour

Oahu Transfer Tour

Frequent questions

About the Kakaako area

Looking for that cool, creative side of Oahu? Kakaako is where modern Hawaii meets urban street culture. There is something new to discover every time you visit. Scroll down for quick answers to common visitor questions.
Kakaako is located just west of Waikiki and adjacent to Downtown Honolulu. The murals are concentrated around the SALT at Our Kakaako complex and the surrounding warehouse blocks. It’s an easy stop by car or on foot as part of your private tour.
Unlike traditional museums, Kakaako is living, breathing street art. The area is free to explore, constantly evolving, and integrated into the city’s daily life. Each visit offers something different, and you’ll find some of the island’s best local eats and drinks along the way.
Technically Kakaako is open 24/7 since the murals are outdoors, but daytime visits are ideal for viewing and photography. Early mornings or late afternoons offer great lighting and fewer crowds. Most shops and eateries are open daily from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm. So if youʻre still up, itʻs a good idea to head to Waikiki afterwards.
No tickets or permits are needed to explore the Kakaako murals. It’s a public district, free and open to all. Some local businesses and restaurants may require reservations during busy times.
Respect the artwork and local businesses. No tagging, climbing, or blocking traffic for photos. Keep the area clean, and be aware that while most murals are accessible, some are on private property and should be viewed from a respectful distance.
Want more in Downtown?

Similar activities & places

From vivid murals to great coffee, Kakaako adds color and character to your time in 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.

Top tour featuring Kakaako

Related excursions & Tours

More ways to experience Kakaako

Want to combine Kakaako with a cultural tour of Honolulu or a film location tour? We’ll help you build the perfect itinerary, from street art to studio stops and everything in between.

Pearl Harbor Tour

Circle Island Tour

Oahu Transfer Tour

Interested in exploring more of Oahu’s creative side? We can combine your visit to Kakaako with other cultural gems around Honolulu, like the Bishop Museum or Iolani Palace.

Choose Route

Pick from iconic destinations like Pearl Harbor, the North Shore, or a majestic Circle Island adventure to perfect your getaway!

Plan By Time

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.

Tour Locations

Customize your private tour with family favorites, local cuisine, shopping, hiking, and visits to some of the islands best beaches.

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More ideas from Halia Private Tours

Everyone comes away from Kakaako seeing Honolulu in a new light. Whether through the art, the flavors, or the creative local energy. It’s where stories are told on walls and in every poke plate.

Want to make the most of your visit? Head to the blog for route ideas, photo tips, and local favorites that go beyond the usual guidebooks. Perfect for curious travelers on the island.

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We’ve brought guests from around the world to the Bishop Museum, and the stories often stay with them long after the tour ends. Which is one of the things we love most about our job.
Halia Private tours

More tours for Downtown Honolulu

From massive portraits and ocean-inspired scenes to abstract patterns and political art, each mural tells its own story. Combined with the area’s trendy cafes, breweries, and shops, it’s a great way to experience Oahu’s modern, urban vibe.

Oahu Combo Tour

Positive impact tour

Oahu Specialty Tour

Need help choosing the right mix of sightseeing and relaxation? Try our tour quiz or scroll down to customize your own perfect day on Oahu.