Honolulu: Ghosts of Old Honolulu Walking Tour

If you’re into spooky stories and Hawaiian history, this Ghosts of Old Honolulu Walking Tour might just be a highlight of your trip. Voted Best Ghost Tour in the Nation by USA Today’s 10Best Reader’s Choice Awards two years running, it’s clear that many travelers find it a memorable way to explore Honolulu’s eerie side. While it’s a short experience, lasting about an hour and a half, it packs in enough chilling tales and local legends to keep you engaged.

What really draws us in is the expert storytelling of Lopaka Kapanui, known as the Ghost Guy—a native Hawaiian storyteller who makes each story come alive. Plus, the focus on true documented hauntings and paranormal activity gives the stories a sense of authenticity rather than just ghostly folklore. The other thing we like is the accessible meeting point at the Kamehameha Statue, which makes it easy to slot in after a day of sightseeing.

However, a potential consideration is that this is primarily a walking tour with no motorized transportation, so if you’re not comfortable on your feet or have mobility issues, it’s worth noting. Also, it’s a tour that’s best suited for those interested in Hawaiian legends, ghost stories, and history—not necessarily for kids who might find the stories too spooky. Still, if ghost tales and local lore are your thing, this tour could be a real treat.

This experience is perfect for history buffs, fans of paranormal tales, or those curious about Honolulu’s haunted corners. It’s also a good choice if you’re looking for a reasonably priced activity that blends entertainment with cultural storytelling.

Key Points

• Voted Best in the Nation: Recognized by USA Today’s 10Best Awards twice.
• Expert Storytelling: Led by Lopaka Kapanui, a well-known local storyteller.
• Authentic Accounts: Focuses on true hauntings and paranormal sightings.
• Accessible & Convenient: Starts at the Kamehameha Statue, easy to find.
• Short & Sweet: 1.5 hours, perfect for an evening activity.
• Cultural & Historical Insight: Combines ghost stories with Hawaiian legends and history.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Haunted Tour Experience

Walking into the tour, you’re greeted at the Kamehameha Statue in downtown Honolulu—an iconic spot that’s easy to locate and a fitting starting point for exploring the city’s ghostly tales. From here, the tour winds through several haunted spots around the area, giving you a taste of Honolulu’s darker past.

The Stories and Locations

One of the best parts of this tour is the narrative style of Lopaka Kapanui. His storytelling weaves Hawaiian legends with true accounts of hauntings, creating a compelling narrative that’s both entertaining and educational. For example, you’ll hear about the Royal Palace’s ghostly echoes, a place that’s unique as the only royal residence in the United States. The stories are dramatized but rooted in documented accounts, which adds a layer of credibility.

Another stop takes you to the Hawaii Supreme Court Building, where ghostly activity is said to linger, especially with the spirits of former staff. The tour also explores the King Kalakaua Building, home to the Downtown Post Office, where spirits like Benedict Westkaemper are rumored to still roam. These locations aren’t just spooky—they’re steeped in Hawaii’s history and emotional stories that leave a lasting impression.

What You Can Expect During the Tour

The tour is approximately 90 minutes long and covers about half a mile—so it’s quite manageable in terms of physical effort. Expect to walk through well-lit streets, but be prepared for some uneven sidewalks or areas where you might want to watch your footing. High heels aren’t recommended, and a sweater or jacket is suggested since the evening temperatures can drop.

Cameras are encouraged, so bring your phone or camera to snap the interesting sights and maybe catch a ghostly shadow or two, if you’re lucky. The guide’s storytelling style keeps everyone engaged, and many reviews praise Lopaka Kapanui as a knowledgeable and captivating guide.

The Value of the Tour

At $28 per person, the tour is quite reasonable considering the amount of storytelling, local insights, and the fact that it’s led by a native Hawaiian-owned business. You’re not just paying for ghost stories but also for a cultural experience that enriches your understanding of Honolulu’s history and legends.

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What the Reviews Say

While only four reviews are on record, they’re overwhelmingly positive. One reviewer raved, “The tour was fantastic,” highlighting the guide’s engaging storytelling. The fact that it’s been recognized as the best ghost tour in the country indicates consistent quality.

Some reviews mention how the stories are true and documented, which makes the experience even more intriguing. The emotional and historical underpinnings of the stories mean you’re learning about real places with genuine histories, not just ghost tales for entertainment.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re fascinated by ghost stories, Hawaiian lore, or history, this tour is a great pick. It’s especially suited to those who enjoy storytelling and are open to a little spooky fun. It’s not designed to be a fright fest, but the stories are authentic and atmospheric enough to give you some chills.

Keep in mind it’s a walking tour, so if you have mobility issues or prefer air-conditioned comfort, it might not be perfect. Also, if you’re traveling with very young kids who might find ghost stories too scary, consider whether the stories might be a little too intense.

This experience is best suited for adults or older teenagers interested in local legends, paranormal activity, and Hawaiian culture. It’s a fun way to see a different side of Honolulu that most visitors overlook.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s primarily geared toward adults and older teens interested in ghost stories and history. While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, you might find it suitable for older children, but consider their comfort with spooky tales.

Does the tour run in all weather conditions?
Most likely, yes, since it’s an outdoor walking tour. However, it’s good to check if there’s a weather cancellation policy or plan to bring an umbrella or rain jacket just in case.

Are there any physical requirements?
The tour covers about half a mile on foot and lasts 90 minutes. Comfortable shoes are recommended, and high heels are discouraged to prevent discomfort or accidents.

Can I take photos during the tour?
Absolutely! Cameras are welcomed, and many participants like to snap shots of the streets, historic buildings, or even any ghostly shadows they might sense.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is conducted in English, which is perfect if you’re a native speaker or comfortable with the language.

How do I find the meeting spot?
You’ll meet at the Kamehameha Statue in Downtown Honolulu, with parking on S. King and Punchbowl Streets being free after 6 pm—perfect for an evening activity.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a distinctive activity that combines Hawaiian history, local legends, and a dash of the supernatural, the Honolulu Ghosts of Old Honolulu Walking Tour offers a memorable way to spend an evening. It’s affordable, well-rated, and led by a storyteller who truly knows how to make these tales come alive. While it’s not a long or physically demanding experience, it’s packed with stories that can send shivers down your spine and deepen your appreciation for Honolulu’s layered past.

For history enthusiasts, paranormal fans, or travelers keen to explore a different side of Hawaii, this tour hits the mark. Just be prepared for a few spooky stories, some walking, and a lot of local flavor.

Happy haunting!

You can check availability for your dates here: