Top Things to Do in Waikiki When It Rains: Indoor Fun, Culture, and Unique Local Spots
The Hawaiian Islands have year-round spectacular weather but every once in a while there are rainy days!
Have no fear, a little break from the sunshine is a good thing, and there’s more to do on Waikiki than just go to the beach.
In this FIRST CABIN INTERNATIONAL HAWAII post, we’re sharing our top things to do on a rainy day in Hawaii Nei.
Food & Beverage Adventures on a Rainy Day in Waikiki
Manoa Chocolate Tour
333 Uluniu St #103
Go on a bean-to-bar journey and learn about handcrafted chocolate.
Manoa Chocolate has been striving to make the world’s most delicious chocolate using ethically sourced cacao beans since 2010.
The Chocolate Tasting Room and Natural Wine Bar in Kailua offers factory tours, educational experiences, live music, and tastings with Chocolate Sommeliers.
Tour the chocolate farm on the North Shore, and while you’re up there, check out the neighboring farms like Hua Orchards and Sweet Land Farm!
Kohana Rum Tasting
92-1770 Kunia Rd #221
Sip on the locally produced Hawaiian agricole rum at the Kohana Rum Tasting Room.
Visit the distillery for rum tastings and explore the sugarcane garden and barrel house.
Tours run daily and walk-ins are welcome.
After the rum tour head over to the Dole Plantation or the Waikele Premium Outlets for a little shopping.
Art & Culture Experiences on a Rainy Day in Waikiki
Bishop Museum
1525 Bernice St
One of the state’s best museums showcases over 25 million artifacts, a planetarium, and a science adventure center.
Spend the day on these beautiful grounds while learning about Hawaii’s fascinating history and culture at this historic museum.
Check out the calendar for current events.
Honolulu Museum of Art
900 S. Beretania St
Located in Honolulu, the HoMA is less than 10 minutes from Waikiki Beach and offers guided tours, art classes, and special events.
Walk through the beautiful halls to admire modern and contemporary art exhibits.
Afterward, sit down for lunch at the cafe and shop in the local gift shop.
Enjoy live music and art experiences while stargazing from the courtyard on Friday nights.
Shangri La Museum of Islamic Art, Culture & Design
4055 Pāpū Circle
This beautiful space boasts exquisite architecture and art in a gorgeous oceanfront estate.
Doris Duke’s curated masterpiece features impressive tilework, architecture, textiles, ceramics, and Islamic Art.
There are over 4,500 pieces from Morocco, Egypt, Syria, Spain, Iran, Central Asia, and India.
The calendar showcases special events, talks, panel discussions, and performances.
’Iolani Palace
364 S. King St
In the heart of downtown Honolulu is the spectacular ‘Iolani Palace.
Visit the home of Hawaii’s last reigning monarchs which was built in 1882.
Learn about this piece of Hawaiian royal heritage with a guided or self-led tour of the restored palace and grounds.
The calendar of events includes upcoming happenings such as live band performances.
Pearl Harbor
Pearl Harbor
Honor the past with the historic and powerful tour at the National Memorial Museum while learning about the December 7, 1941 attacks.
Pearl Harbor offers programs and events for both kids and adults. This impactful experience and guided tour is a highlight for many of O’ahu’s visitors.
Reservations are highly recommended.
Polynesian Cultural Center
55-370 Kamehameha Hwy
Located on the North Shore, the PCC is perfect for an all-day adventure.
Tour the six villages representing unique Polynesian cultures.
There are three action-packed experiences: a basic tour, a luau dinner, or the evening show with over 100 performers showcasing dances and songs from around the Pacific.
Shopping & Entertaining Excursions Near Waikiki
Ala Moana Mall
1450 Ala Moana Blvd
Shop until you drop at the world’s largest open-air outdoor mall with over 350 stores, designer shops, various dining options, and daily hula shows.
There’s an indoor bowling alley and arcade at Lucky Strike. Afterward, head over to the hip neighborhood of Kaka’ako for street art, more shopping, and excellent dining.
Movie Museum
3566 Harding Ave
Tucked in the eclectic neighborhood of Kaimuki, the Movie Museum is a small, locally run movie theater with leather recliner chairs.
Bring your own food and beverages, kick back, and watch an $8 film.
Check out the movie calendar for the current month’s curated selection of films that change daily.
International Marketplace
2330 Kalākaua Ave
Spend your rainy day shopping and dining in the heart of Waikiki.
The renovated International Marketplace boasts over 90 stores and dining options including 8 open-air restaurants.
Visit the website for the current schedule of live music, performances, and fun things to do, like learning how to make a lei!
Waikiki Aquarium
2777 Kalākaua Ave
Explore the second-oldest aquarium in the United States right in Waikiki.
The aquarium has a coral reef exhibit, educational experiences, and endangered Hawaiian monk seals.
The marine wildlife program offers insightful exhibits about the fish and coral reefs that are found in the surrounding Hawaiian waters.
Thrilling Adventures in Waikiki for a Rainy Day
Waikiki Gun Club
2142 Kalākaua Ave 2nd Floor
Try something exhilarating on a rainy day at the Waikiki Gun Club.
Whether you’re an experienced shooter or it’s your first time holding a firearm, the professional staff is ready to help with a successful shooting experience.
Take aim and fire at the longest indoor shooting range in Waikiki with an extensive selection of firearms.
Bang bang!
Manu Kai Catamaran
Departs from Duke’s Restaurant or the Kewalo Basin Harbor.
A little rain doesn’t need to ruin a good time! Get out on the water with a boat cruise.
The Manu Kai Catamaran offers one or two-hour long tours, rain or shine. There are complimentary beverages, fun, and adventure waiting for you!
The Best Things to Do on A Rainy Day in Waikiki
Although the weather is usually great in the islands, sometimes it rains!
Don’t worry because there are plenty of things to do in Waikiki and the surrounding areas on rainy days.
As always, the staff here at FIRST CABIN INTERNATIONAL HAWAII is here to help answer your questions and help you have the best vacation in Waikiki Beach.
