Gay Hawaii
Bars & Clubs
Restaurants
Hotels
Shops
Arts
Beaches
Articles
Events

Iolani Palace

(4 Ratings)
Absolutely not to be missed! If you only do one guided tour in Oahu, this is the one!
This is the only royal palace in the USA used as an official residence by a reigning monarch. The basement has a photographic display of the Palace, the Hawaiian crown jewels, orders and decorations given by the monarchs, and regalia worn by the high chiefs of the islands. Taking the guided tour is highly recommended - it's fascinating!


Your support makes our travel guides possible

We believe that LGBTQ+ people deserve safe vacations that allow them to be their authentic selves. That's why our City Guides aren't locked behind a paywall. Can you contribute today?

Cancel anytime · Proudly LGBTQ+ owned and operated

Reviews

BBUC
BBUC first review First to Review
Over a year ago

Only Royal Palace in the US

Iolani Palace was a royal palace where the Hawaiian Monarchy lived and reigned until overthrown by the US Government. King Kalakau had it built it was completed in 1892 and the last reigning monarch who lived there was Queen Lili'Uokalani who was placed under house arrest and forced to turned over the Islands to US control as battleships were staged off shore pointed at the island. This palace is magnificent, beautiful, many of the objects belonging to the place were sold or auctioned after the takeover and have since reclaimed, however there are many still to be found or located. Out of respect you are asked to where appropriate attire when visiting, where booties to protect the wood floors. I would recommend the guided tour or audio since there is so much history to learn from what was once a great monarchy. Recently a movie was released name Princess Ka'iulani, in the movie you will see many scenes with the palace.


Other Arts & Culture in Waikiki

Hawaii Opera Theatre

Opera with passion
Waikiki

National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific

An epic and beautiful tribute to our fighting forces.
Waikiki

Bishop Museum

One of the finest museums for Pacific Island culture.
Waikiki

Honolulu Zoo

An impressive menagerie, plus extensive collection of flora and fauna.
Waikiki

Waikiki Shell

Book tickets to see live shows like the locals do!
Waikiki

USS Missouri

See the celebrated USS Missouri (BB-63)
Waikiki

USS Arizona Memorial

See the final resting spot of the USS Arizona, sunk in the attack on Pearl Harbor.
Waikiki

USS Bowfin Submarine Museum

See the inside of a WW2 submarine and learn about our combat history
Waikiki

Restaurants in Waikiki

Eggs 'N Things

Breakfast all day, local style!
Waikiki

Siam Square

Waikiki's favorite Thai restaurant
Waikiki

Orchids

A nice medium between fancy and casual
Waikiki

House Without a Key

Outdoor sunset entertainment
Waikiki

LuLu's Waikiki

A tourist-friendly, family spot
Waikiki

Gay Hawaii
Bars & Clubs
Restaurants
Hotels
Shops
Arts
Beaches
Articles
Events