Historical Tour of Downtown Honolulu in Red Light District
Active
1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore Honolulu's mysterious past with the Red Light Tours, delving into the intriguing world of Hawaii's 1930s brothels. Uncover the tales of secret establishments, vibrant characters, and the allure that shaped the city's history. Guided by knowledgeable storytellers, this tour offers a unique glimpse into Honolulu's captivating and enigmatic underbelly.
Contact us for private tours of 4 or more visitors on days we are normally closed.
Available options
Historical Tour of Downtown Honolulu in Red Light District
What's included
Guests must be 21 or over to consume alcohol. We will stop at Smith’s Union Bar, the oldest bar in Honolulu for a toast to the fallen from the battleship Arizona.
Detailed itinerary
1
The tour begins at the Blaisdell Hotel. This is where the working girls checked in with the Chief of Police. The tour then continues through the historic red light district with stops at 6 former brothels where guests will learn the steamy history and stories of each building.
Our tour guide will meet you at the Old Blaisdell Hotel (1154 Fort Street Mall). This is a historical Redlight tour in Honolulu's Chinatown's heyday of prostitution from the the 1930s-1944. This is a short walking tour and is designed with all physical abilities in mind. We can accommodate visitors in wheelchairs for our earlier tours as the historic elevator stops running at 4:30 PM. The entire route is wheelchair friendly.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
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Tripadvisor
4.3
6 reviews
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Must be 21 to consume alcohol
Meeting point
Meet at 1154 Fort Street Mall. The Old Blaisdell Hotel. Look up above the trees and see a “Blaisdell Hotel” sign. There is a “jojos coffee sign” hanging over the black iron gate. We will meet you at the gate.
Important notes
Meet at the black gate with “Jojo Coffee” sign overhead
About Oahu
Oahu, known as 'The Gathering Place,' is the third-largest of the Hawaiian Islands and home to the state capital, Honolulu. It offers a unique blend of urban attractions, historical sites, and stunning natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a diverse Hawaiian experience.
Top Attractions
Waikiki Beach
Waikiki Beach is one of the most famous beaches in the world, known for its golden sand, clear waters, and vibrant atmosphere. It's perfect for swimming, surfing, and people-watching.
Beach
Half day to full day
Free
Pearl Harbor National Memorial
Pearl Harbor is a historic site that commemorates the attack on Pearl Harbor during World War II. Visitors can tour the USS Arizona Memorial, Battleship Missouri, and the Pacific Aviation Museum.
Historical
Half day to full day
Free to $2.00 for the USS Arizona Memorial program
Diamond Head State Monument
Diamond Head is an iconic volcanic crater offering stunning views of Honolulu and the Pacific Ocean. The hike to the summit is moderate and rewards visitors with breathtaking panoramic views.
Nature
2-3 hours
$5 per vehicle, $1 per pedestrian
Must-Try Local Dishes
Poke
A Hawaiian raw fish salad typically made with ahi tuna or salmon, soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions.
Lunch/Dinner
Can be made with cooked fish or tofu for a vegetarian/vegan option.
Loco Moco
A hearty dish consisting of white rice topped with a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and brown gravy.
Dinner
Can be made with a vegetarian patty or tofu.
Shave Ice
Finely shaved ice topped with flavored syrups and often served with a scoop of ice cream or sweetened condensed milk.
Dessert
Vegetarian and vegan-friendly.
Popular Activities
Hiking
Surfing
ATV tours
Zip-lining
Beach lounging
Spas
Sunset cruises
Luaus
Best Time to Visit
December to March
This is the peak tourist season due to the winter whale-watching season and the Christmas holidays. The weather is pleasant, with occasional rain showers.
20-30°C
68-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Hawaiian, Japanese, Chinese, Filipino
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
GMT-10:00 (Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Oahu is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates in tourist areas. However, visitors should always be aware of their surroundings and take basic safety precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services
- • Avoid leaving valuables unattended on the beach
- • Be aware of strong currents and rip tides when swimming
Getting there
By air
- Daniel K. Inouye International Airport • 5 km from Honolulu
By bus
Honolulu, Waikiki
Getting around
Public transport
The Bus system is affordable and covers most of Oahu, including major attractions and neighborhoods. Fares are $3 per ride, and day passes are available.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Waikiki
Honolulu
North Shore
Day trips
Kualoa Ranch
30 miles from Honolulu • Full day
Kualoa Ranch is a 4,000-acre nature reserve and working cattle ranch offering a variety of outdoor activities, including ATV tours, horseback riding, and movie site tours.
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
10 miles from Honolulu • Half day
Hanauma Bay is a marine life conservation district offering excellent snorkeling opportunities in a protected, pristine environment. The bay is home to a diverse range of marine life, including tropical fish, sea turtles, and dolphins.
Kualoa Ranch
30 miles from Honolulu • Full day
Kualoa Ranch is a 4,000-acre nature reserve and working cattle ranch offering a variety of outdoor activities, including ATV tours, horseback riding, and movie site tours.
Festivals
Honolulu Festival • March
Merrie Monarch Festival • April
Pro tips
- Visit popular attractions like Waikiki Beach and Pearl Harbor early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat
- Rent a car for at least a few days to explore the island's diverse landscapes and attractions
- Try local dishes like poke, loco moco, and shave ice for an authentic Hawaiian culinary experience
- Pack light, breathable clothing and reef-safe sunscreen to protect your skin and the environment
- Learn a few basic Hawaiian phrases to show respect for the local culture and enhance your travel experience
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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