Upper Manoa

SuburbHonolulu, Hawaii

Upper Manoa is a SUB AREA in Honolulu, Hawaii.

Upper Manoa is a lush, residential neighborhood nestled in the hills above Honolulu, offering a serene escape from the city's bustle. Known for its frequent rain showers that nourish emerald foliage and vibrant flowers, this area is a paradise for nature lovers. The famous Manoa Falls trail leads through a bamboo forest to a stunning 150-foot waterfall, while the nearby Lyon Arboretum showcases tropical plants. Upper Manoa's cool, misty climate provides a refreshing contrast to Waikiki's heat. Visitors can explore historic homes, enjoy local eateries, and hike the Judd Trail. It's a perfect base for those seeking tranquility and authentic island life, with easy access to Honolulu's attractions.

Best time to visit Upper Manoa

The best time to visit is April to October for drier weather and sunny days. November to March is rainier but still warm, with fewer crowds and lower prices. Upper Manoa is lush year-round, but the drier months offer better hiking conditions.

October

Now

Right now

Condition
Overcast
Temperature
25°
Feels like
25°
Humidity
67%
Wind
16 km/h
Precipitation
0 mm

Typical for October

Weather
Warm 23-29°C, less rain

Travel notes

Crowds
Moderate
Prices
Moderate

Nice weather

Weather from Open-Meteo

Know before you go

Getting there

HNL

Daniel K. Inouye International Airport

International

8 km away

Getting around

"Public bus (TheBus) serves Upper Manoa with routes to Honolulu and Waikiki. Rideshares like Uber and Lyft are available. Renting a car is convenient but parking can be tight. Walking is pleasant for short distances, but hills can be steep. Taxis are limited."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

30 Mbps

Mobile data

Excellent

WiFi

Available in cafes and some vacation rentals

Local SIM

Local SIM at airport from $5 (e.g., T-Mobile, Verizon)

Stay safe

Overall

8/10

Scam risk low; occasional parking or rental scams.

Night safety

7/10

Scam risk low; occasional parking or rental scams.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

6/10

"Upper Manoa is generally safe, with low crime rates. Petty theft can occur, so lock vehicles and secure valuables. Some hiking trails can be slippery after rain; wear proper footwear. Flash floods are possible during heavy rain. Avoid hiking alone at dusk. Overall, it's a safe area for tourists."

Entry and health

Health information

"No special vaccinations required for Hawaii. Tap water is safe to drink. Be aware of sun exposure and stay hydrated. Mosquitoes can be present; use repellent. Medical facilities are available in Honolulu, including urgent care clinics and hospitals like Queen's Medical Center. Travel insurance is recommended."

Culture

Local customs

"Hawaii has a strong aloha spirit; greet with a smile and be respectful. Remove shoes before entering homes. Dress casually but modestly; beachwear is for the beach. Tipping is customary (15-20% at restaurants). Respect sacred sites and nature; don't take rocks or sand."
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Costs and practicals

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$10-15 | a local plate lunch costs ~$10-15

Hotels

$150-250 | mid-range hotels or vacation rentals $150-250/night

Local transport

$2.75 | TheBus fare is $2.75 per ride

Cost notes

Upper Manoa has limited lodging; most visitors stay in Honolulu.

Timezone

Pacific/Honolulu
Local time 17:35

More facts

Population

3,345

Type

Suburb

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Manoa Upper Falls

SuburbNatureHikingFamily-FriendlyScenic