Honolulu

Honolulu is the capital and largest city of the U.S. state of Hawaii, located on the southeast coast of the island of Oahu. It is the seat of government for the City and County of Honolulu, a consolidated city–county that covers most of the island. The city forms Hawaii’s main gateway and the state’s urban core, hosting government offices, financial institutions, universities, and a significant portion of the tourism industry. The population of the city is around 350,000, with a larger metropolitan area.

Key districts include Waikiki, known for its beaches and resort hotels, and downtown Honolulu, which houses Iolani Palace, the historic royal residence, and the Hawaii State Capitol. The Pearl Harbor national memorial complex lies nearby. Daniel K. Inouye International Airport serves as the primary air hub for Hawaii.

The site was settled by Polynesians centuries ago. In 1845 the capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom was moved to Honolulu. Following a sequence of political changes, Honolulu became the capital of the Territory of Hawaii after annexation by the United States in 1898 and later the state capital when Hawaii became a U.S. state in 1959.

The economy relies on tourism, government, military facilities, and education. The University of Hawaii at Manoa is based in Honolulu. The city hosts diverse cultural venues, museums, and festivals, and has a tropical climate with warm temperatures and seasonal trade winds.