Honolulu Haunts and Hauntings Ghost Tour

If you’re curious about the spooky stories behind Honolulu’s historic sites, this ghost tour promises a walk through the city’s haunted past. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews suggest that it offers an interesting mix of history, local legend, and ghostly lore. It’s a relatively short experience—about an hour—but packed with tales that might send a few shivers down your spine.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines historic landmarks with ghostly stories, giving you a sense of Honolulu’s layered past. Plus, many reviews praise the knowledge and storytelling skills of the guides, making the experience both entertaining and informative. On the flip side, some mention that certain guides could improve on clarity or storytelling depth, so be aware that the experience can vary depending on who’s leading.

A possible consideration is the duration and scope—this isn’t a tour where you step inside buildings or experience actual paranormal activity first-hand. Instead, it’s more about walking around and hearing stories, which some might find a little light on actual haunted encounters. Still, if you’re into history, architecture, and ghost stories, this could be a fun way to get a different perspective on Honolulu.

This experience suits those who enjoy urban ghost walks, are interested in local history, or simply want a fun, spooky evening activity. It’s particularly good if you’re looking for an affordable, accessible way to explore the city after dark without committing to a long tour.

Key Points

• Accessible and affordable at $24 per person, making it an easy add-on to your Hawaii itinerary
• Short and sweet, about 1 hour, ideal for travelers with limited time
• Knowledgeable guides with interesting storytelling skills, according to many travelers
• Focus on Honolulu landmarks like Iolani Palace and the Supreme Court with added spooky tales
• Varied reviews — some rave about the stories and atmosphere, others find the storytelling lacking
• No inside visits or paranormal activities, mainly walking and listening to stories

Inside the Tour: A Detailed Look at What to Expect

The tour starts at 447 S King St and takes you through some of Honolulu’s most iconic and historically significant locations. Here’s what you’ll likely encounter along the way:

Iolani Palace: The Spirit of a Queen

Our journey begins at the grounds of Iolani Palace, built around 1879. As the only royal palace in the U.S., it’s steeped in Hawaiian history. The palace is said to be sacred, and stories of Queen Liliuokalani’s lingering spirit watching over Honolulu make it a fitting start for a haunted tour. The last Queen fought fiercely for her land, and her presence is believed to still be felt here. Many visitors find the setting’s grandeur adds an extra layer of eeriness when paired with ghost stories.

Kauanonaula Street: Rain and Red Rainbows

Next, you’ll walk to a street intersection with a poetic name meaning “rain with the red rainbow.” While no major historic event is tied to this spot, it’s well known among ghost enthusiasts for frequent sightings and unexplained encounters. Stories from visitors often describe creepy feelings or sightings of shadowy figures, making it a popular stop for ghost hunters.

Historic Building with a White Kimono

Another interesting stop is an old building where multiple stories tell of a ghost dressed in white kimono haunting the premises. Some locals and workers have shared chilling tales of encounters, and a news article has even been written about the tragedies associated with this location. The stories are quite vivid, making it a highlight for anyone interested in ghostly legends.

Hawaii Supreme Court: Children’s Laughter and Lost Souls

The Supreme Court building, which opened in 1871, presents a fascinating blend of legal history and ghostly lore. Before it became a courthouse, it was an orphanage, and stories suggest that sitting under the banyan trees nearby can bring hearing the cheerful laughter of children. Meanwhile, others have reported encounters with spirits of those sentenced to death in the early 1900s, adding an intriguing mix of innocence and tragedy.

Oldest Cemetery in Hawaii

The oldest Christian cemetery, with over 296 gravestones, is considered haunted. Visitors frequently mention strange smells, whispers, and sightings of a young boy wandering among the graves. The fact that many believe there are more bodies beneath the surface adds to the cemetery’s eerie reputation.

Historic Missionary Homes

Finally, you’ll explore two of Hawaii’s oldest homes, built by missionaries from New England. Witnesses have shared stories of seeing missionary women dressed in long dresses and hearing children’s sounds echoing through these ancient walls. It’s a tangible glimpse into the early colonial days, with an added ghostly twist.

What the Reviews Say

Many reviews highlight the expertise and enthusiasm of guides like Maggie and Hope, who make the stories come alive even in a short time. Some travelers mention that the night setting and architecture create a perfect backdrop for spooky tales, especially when illuminated at night.

For example, one reviewer said, “Hope was so knowledgeable. Her pace felt natural throughout the tour so we didn’t feel rushed.” Another traveler praised the tour for “being deeply interesting,” especially noting how the guides shared stories that felt grounded in real incidents, with just a touch of flair.

A handful of reviews, however, point out inconsistent guide performance. One commented that the guide “did not tell the tales well,” and another felt the stories could have been elaborated on more. But overall, most guests enjoyed the mix of history and haunted tales—some even capturing images that seemed to show spirits or mysterious figures.

It’s worth noting that the tour is not a spooky, inside-the-building experience but rather a walk around outdoor sites and historic landmarks. Some visitors wished for more seating or places to wait between stops, especially during rainy weather or in the evening.

The Practicalities: What to Know Before You Go

• Price: At $24 per person, this tour is quite affordable considering the number of locations covered and the storytelling quality. Many reviews feel it offers good value for what you get, especially if you’re interested in local lore and history.
• Duration: Just about 1 hour, making it perfect for a quick evening activity without feeling like a major commitment.
• Group Size: The tour caps at 35 travelers, so it’s a relatively intimate group—though some reviews mention small groups, which can make the experience more personal.
• Meeting Point: The tour begins at 447 S King St, which is conveniently near public transportation options.
• Accessibility: Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level, as it involves walking around outdoor sites. No mention of transportation is included, so plan accordingly.
• Booking in advance: It’s generally booked about 23 days ahead, so if you’re planning around a specific date, it’s worth reserving early.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This ghost tour is best suited for history buffs, paranormal enthusiasts, or anyone interested in a fun, spooky evening walk. The stories are engaging, the settings atmospheric, and the price is reasonable for a short but memorable experience. If you’re looking for an inside look at haunted buildings or a detailed paranormal investigation, this might not be the right pick. But if you enjoy hearing stories, exploring historic sites at night, and soaking in the ambiance of Honolulu’s older streets, you’ll likely find this tour worth your time.

Travelers who appreciate guides with storytelling flair and an interest in local legends will find the tour particularly enjoyable. It’s flexible enough to fit into a relaxed Hawaiian itinerary, especially as an after-dinner activity. Just keep in mind that the ghost stories are mostly told from a storytelling perspective—no actual paranormal activity is guaranteed.

FAQs About the Honolulu Haunts and Hauntings Ghost Tour

Is this tour suitable for kids?
It’s generally suitable for those with a moderate physical fitness level, but the ghost stories are more atmospheric than frightening. It’s a walk around outdoor historic sites, so very young children should be supervised.

Does the tour go inside buildings?
No, this is primarily a walking outdoor tour. You won’t be entering buildings or seeing actual paranormal phenomena firsthand.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts about an hour, making it a quick yet engaging activity perfect for an evening outing.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers all fees and taxes, a professional guide, and the researched stories of hauntings and history. Food, drinks, tips, and transportation are not included.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as you’ll be on your feet for about an hour. Since it’s an evening tour, bring layers and maybe a flashlight or phone light, especially if the weather is unpredictable.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, the booking allows free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancelations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Wrapping It Up

If you’re after an affordable, atmospheric way to learn about Honolulu’s landmarks and enjoy some spooky stories, this ghost tour can be a fun addition to your Hawaiian adventures. It’s especially appealing if you love storytelling, historic architecture, and a touch of ghostly intrigue. While it’s not a high-adrenaline haunted house or paranormal investigation, it successfully blends local history with ghostly tales, making it a memorable, light-hearted experience.

For those who enjoy guided walks with knowledgeable storytellers and don’t mind a casual outdoor stroll, this tour offers a good balance of fun and education. Just keep expectations in check—this is more about stories and ambiance than actual ghostly encounters. Overall, it’s a charming way to explore Honolulu after dark and see some of the city’s historic sites in a completely different light.