planning a trip to waikiki hawaii

The 21 Best Things to Do in Waikiki

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Waikiki has been a popular destination for travelers since the 1800s. And while a lot has changed since it was used as a retreat for Hawaiian royalty, it still continues to attract people from all around the world for its beautiful beaches, fun outdoor activities, and vibrant city-like culture.

As the most visited part of any island in Hawaii, Waikiki has no shortage of things to do and see. Whether you’re here to sunbathe, shop, or surf, you’re in for an unforgettable vacation when you stay in Waikiki . 

But to help you narrow down your list of activities, we’ve put together a curated selection of tours, restaurants, and must-see sights. That way you can plan out your trip to make the most of your time in this tropical metropolitan paradise. 

Looking to book a great Waikiki tour? Here are the quick links for the tours that made this list: Head out on a relaxing and budget friendly sunset sail . Pick a Turtle Canyon snorkel tour and check out this incredible turtle cleaning station. Experience a real life submarine on the Atlantis XIV . Take flight and see Waikiki from above on an incredible Honolulu Helicopter Tour . Pick a Pearl Harbor tour that fits your groups needs, from full day, to private, to budget friendly. For non Hawaii residence, make reservations to hike Diamond Head

Visiting Waikiki: the FAQs

Where is waikiki.

Waikiki is located on the island of Oahu, which is the most populated island in the state of Hawaii. Sandwiched between the downtown city center of Honolulu and the legendary Diamond Head crater, Waikiki is nestled on the southeastern coast of the island.

It’s about a 15 to 20-minute drive from the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (Honolulu Airport), making it easy for incoming visitors to reach. From Waikiki, you can also reach the North Shore in 45 minutes, Pearl Harbor in 20 minutes, and Kailua in 25 minutes.

What is Waikiki best known for?

If you were to ask 100 people about what makes Waikiki so special, you’d likely receive 100 different answers. 

For some, it’s the sparkling Waikiki Beach, views of Diamond Head, and a pristine coastline that attracts snorkelers, swimmers, surfers, and boaters. But for others, it could be the glitzy resorts and shopping centers where you can purchase practically everything under the sun. 

And let’s not forget about the culture! As the epicenter of tourism in Hawaii, Waikiki is full of history and spirit. When you’re here, you can watch traditional hula dancing, learn about Hawaiian royalty, or even indulge in the delicious flavors of Hawaiian cuisine. 

So, there’s not really a simple answer to what Waikiki is known for. You’ll just have to go for yourself to find out!

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Is it worth it to go to Waikiki?

Waikiki is a special place unlike anywhere else in the Hawaiian islands. If you want a lively atmosphere with lots of dining, shopping, and activities, Waikiki can be an excellent spot for vacation. And although it’s very developed and big-city-like, it also has beautiful beaches and fun outdoor activities where you can be out in nature.

However, we understand that Waikiki isn’t for everyone. Those seeking a more peaceful or quiet vacation may find the hustle and bustle too much for their liking. Beaches, hotels, and sights can be very crowded, so it’s not the best destination if you are hoping for a relaxing getaway.

But even if Waikiki isn’t at the top of your vacation bucket list, we still believe that it’s worth seeing. There’s a fascinating history and culture that we think will pleasantly surprise you.

Is there a difference between Waikiki and Honolulu?

You might hear Waikiki and Honolulu being used interchangeably – but this is incorrect! Honolulu is a city and the county (it also happens to be the capital of Hawaii). Waikiki is a neighborhood in Honolulu and a famous tourist area. 

Is it easy to get around Waikiki without a car?

Waikiki is very walkable, so it’s definitely possible to get around without a car. It’s only a few blocks deep and roughly 2 miles long, with many of the main attractions (including hotels and restaurants) being located near the water. 

And generally speaking, you can easily get around all of Oahu without needing a car . With taxi, Uber, and public transportation, its possible to visit a lot of interesting sights and attractions. Many tours also include pickup and drop off in Waikiki, which can be helpful if you choose not to drive yourself.

The only exception is if you are staying in Ko Olina or the North Shore . Because these places are more secluded, it’s much more cost-efficient if you have a car you can use during your visit.

Related reads: The Ultimate Ko Olina Guide: What to Do, Where to Eat, Where to Stay The Best North Shore Oahu Hotels and Vacation Rentals 21 Amazing Things to Do on Oahu’s North Shore

Map of Things to Do in Waikiki

The Top 21 Things to Do in Waikiki

1. escape the crowds on waikiki beach.

Nearly half of all visitors to Oahu stay in Waikiki, so you can imagine how crowded it can get on the beach. While Waikiki Beach may not be the most off-the-beaten-path destination, it’s still possible to find some secluded spots (if you know where to look!).

You’ll find that the busiest sections of the beach are right in the middle in front of the Royal Hawaiian and Moana Surfrider hotels. Crowds tend to dissipate the further away from the center you go, so check here first if you are seeking peace and quiet.

We also recommend Kahanamoku Beach near the Hilton Lagoon or Queen’s Beach near Diamond Head. They are less crowded but still ideal for those wanting to be on this side of the coast.

Next to Queen’s Beach is Kuhio Beach, another one of our favorite spots. The water is very calm and shallow since it’s protected by the Waikiki Walkway, making it the perfect place for families and snorkelers.

2. Surf Waikiki Beach

As one of the top surfing destinations in the world, Waikiki is an awesome place to learn how to ride waves. But don’t be discouraged if you’ve never been on a board before. There are surf schools all along the coast where you can try this legendary sport for yourself.

When it comes to surf lessons, we highly recommend the Ohana Surf Project. They offer group, private, and semi-private classes for all skill levels – even beginners! So, even if you’re a first-timer, you can feel confident knowing you’re learning everything there is to know from your professional coach.

This is also an excellent activity for families, as they’re willing to teach kids as young as 2! However, kids under 12 will need to book a private lesson (or family lesson with one parent), and kids under 6 will likely need to share a board with the instructor. 

3. Friday Fireworks

If you’re in Waikiki on a Friday, then you won’t want to miss the weekly fireworks show. While fireworks are lit by the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort, anyone can come and enjoy the show for free. 

Just grab a spot on the beach, and you’ll have front-row seats to the amazing fireworks display. Things kick off at 7:45 PM sharp, so make sure you’re there on time. This has been a tradition for almost 35 years, and it is one of the best free things to do in Waikiki!

4. Acai Bowls at Tropical Tribe

When you’re craving a refreshing, sweet treat, stop by Tropical Tribe for a tasty (and healthy!) acai bowl. Tropical Tribe once started out as a lunch wagon, but due to overwhelming popularity, they finally opened a shop right in the heart of Waikiki. And now, they have three different locations in Hawaii!

Of course, the best thing to get here is an authentic Brazilian bowl, which is made with a blend of acai and guarana berries. You can then choose your favorite toppings like fruit, honey, and nuts, as well as any additional add-ons.

You can visit them in their Waikiki location or their Ala Moana location.

Waikiki: 2161 Kālia Rd Suite 110, Honolulu

Ala Moana: 1778 Ala Moana Blvd #101, Honolulu

5. Fresh Poke at Sato Seafood

Poke is one of those quintessential Hawaiian meals that you have to try at least once during your trip. You can find this mouthwatering raw fish dish everywhere – from fine dining restaurants to grocery store counters. However, we think the best poke on the island is right in Waikiki.

Sato Seafood is right behind the International Marketplace, so it’s easy to reach no matter where your hotel is. They specialize in all types of poke, although we highly recommend the Hawaiian Munchies (crispy garlic with soy glaze) or the Spicy Maui Maui (spicy mayo with chili oil).

They also have different bowls, rolls, and snackable appetizers, so make sure you come with an appetite!

Sato Seafood: 2310 Kūhiō Ave. #215, Honolulu

6. Go to a Japanese Noodle House

Hawaiian cuisine is strongly influenced by Japanese culture, which means there are some great Japanese restaurants located on the islands. Muragame Udon is one of the best, especially if you’re craving a big bowl of hot noodles.

All udon dishes are made to order, and you can even watch the chefs in action while you wait! You can’t go wrong with anything on their menu, but the Nikutama (udon with umami sauce) or the Curry (udon with curry sauce) are fan favorites. They also have rice bowls, salad, and crispy tempura treats too. 

Don’t be surprised if there’s a long line outside when you arrive. This place is very popular, but it’s well worth the wait. And because things are served cafeteria style, the line tends to go pretty fast, so you won’t have to wait too long to eat.

Marugame Udon: 2310 Kūhiō Ave., Honolulu

7. Enjoy a Free Hula Show 

If you don’t have the time or budget for a luau dinner, don’t fret. You can still watch this traditional Hawaiian dance at the Royal Hawaiian Center in Waikiki . In the middle of all the shops and restaurants is the Royal Grove, an outdoor space that puts on free live entertainment throughout the week.

On Tuesday evenings, the Kawika Trask Trio performs live, often with traditional hula dancers. And on Wednesdays, you can also watch the Puʻuhonua Performance, another luau-type performance. If you’re in town on the weekend, you can also watch the Hula Kahiko show on Saturday, which features dancers, music, and chanters.

In addition to the live performances, the Royal Hawaiian Center also has free hula dancing lessons (Tuesdays for adults and Thursdays for kids). Best of all, all these shows and classes are completely free.

8. Grab a Mai Tai

The Royal Hawaiian is arguably one of the most iconic hotels in Waikiki. With its pastel pink facade and nearly 100-year history, the hotel is a historic gem that is guaranteed to wow. 

However, you don’t have to be a guest to visit! Grab a seat at the Mai Tai Beach Bar and enjoy a refreshing tropical drink while you admire the crashing ocean waves of Waikiki Beach. 

As you can probably guess, their signature drink is a Mai Tai, a cocktail made with two types of rum, orange curocao, and juice. The hotel claims that it was the first place to serve the drink after it was brought over to Hawaii, so sipping on a Mai Tai is like taking a sip of history!

For the best views, make sure to come during sunset. The bar also has live music every night from 6 PM until 10 PM.

9. Visit the Honolulu Zoo

A trip to the Honolulu Zoo is one of the best family activities for animal lovers. Located inside ​​Kapiʻolani Regional Park (on the far eastern side of Waikiki by the slopes of Diamond Head), this 42-acre zoo has over 1,200 animals to see! 

From scaly reptiles and swinging primates to exotic birds and African savannah giants, a visit to the zoo is guaranteed to be an unforgettable excursion. 

If you want to make your visit even more memorable, we recommend booking a Twilight Tour. This two-hour walking tour takes place after the zoo closes to the public. You’ll get to see exhibits without the crowds, as well as a few nocturnal creatures that aren’t active during the day.

If you’re traveling with accessibility needs or mobility aids, Hawaii has your back and we’ve broken down what to expect and everything you need to know about accessibility in Hawaii.

10. Enjoy the Aquarium

A bit further down the coast from the Honolulu Zoo is the Waikiki Aquarium. Here, you can find all types of local and exotic marine life, like seahorses, parrotfish, and even green turtles!

While the aquarium is a bit on the small side (you should be able to go through the entire thing in under an hour), it’s still worth a visit to support the work the employees do for marine conservation. And a fun fact – the aquarium has been around since 1904, making it the second oldest of its kind in the entire United States!

11. Outrigger Canoe Ride

Outrigger canoes have been used in Hawaii for centuries, which is why they play an important role in the state’s history and culture. And while it may look complicated to paddle one across the rolling waves of Waikiki, it’s actually pretty easy (and super fun) once you get the hang of it!

Canoe rides are very safe, too, and a great activity for families since kids are usually welcomed aboard. Once you learn the basics of paddling, you’ll be taken out to the ocean, where you can put your knowledge to the test. You’ll also be with a captain every step of the way in case you need some assistance!

During the tour (most trips last around 30 – 40 minutes), you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of Diamond Head, Waikiki, and the beautiful Honolulu skyline. 

12. Sunset Sail

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for an excuse to get out on the water, a sunset sailing trip is guaranteed to be an exciting excursion. This 1-hour catamaran sail departs in front of the Moana Surfrider Hotel and lets you trade the bustle of Waikiki for the tranquility of the open ocean. 

Besides the panoramic views of Waikiki and Diamond Head, you’ll also get to see wildlife like sea turtles and dolphins. And if you happen to be in town from December to March, there’s also an opportunity to see humpback whales!

On board, you can purchase drinks like Mai Tais, beer, and soda. You’re allowed to bring your own food and drinks too, as long as they aren’t in glass containers. Unlike other sunset cruises, which are more expensive due to the open bar, this one is more affordable and great for couples or families on a budget. 

The sunset cruise leaves at 5:30pm, but if you prefer to go during the day, there are also several daytime sails available. 

13. Snorkel Turtle Canyon

Right off the coast of Waikiki is Turtle Canyon, one of the island’s most popular snorkeling destinations. It’s here where dozens of Hawaii Green Sea Turtles come to have fish remove potentially harmful algae, parasites, and barnacles from their shells. 

Watching the turtles at the turtle cleaning station is really a unique experience, although it can get quite busy with all the tour groups coming in and out. There are several different tours to choose from, although we recommend booking one that goes early in the morning when it’s less crowded.

One thing to keep in mind is that most tours depart from Kewalo Basin Harbor, which is approximately 10 minutes away from downtown Waikiki by car. 

14. Sunset Pupus at the House Without a Key

There are so many good restaurants in Waikiki, but we absolutely love the laid-back vibes at the House without a Key. This open-air lounge is located in the upscale Halekalani Hotel. Grab a seat and enjoy the picturesque ocean and sunset views while you snack on pupus (Hawaiian appetizers) and sip on delicious tropical cocktails.

If the views aren’t enticing enough, maybe the live entertainment will be! Every night, there’s live music and hula dancing to help create the perfect Hawaiian ambiance. 

House Without a Key: 2199 Kālia Rd, Honolulu, HI 96815

15. Hike Diamond Head

As one of the most recognizable landmarks in Oahu, Diamond Head is a must-visit for any hiking enthusiasts. From the summit of this volcanic crater, you’ll have unparalleled 360-degree views of the ocean, beaches, and city skyline.

Hiking the Diamond Head Summit Trail should only take you 2 hours (it’s 1.6 miles roundtrip). It’s of moderate difficulty considering the steep switchbacks and sets of stairs that wind up the slopes. 

If you are a non-Hawaii resident, advanced reservations are required to visit Diamond Head and the hiking trail. There’s also a small entrance fee as well as a charge for parking. However, you can walk from Waikiki (plan for at least an hour) if you’re feeling up for it.

16. Shop on Kalakaua Avenue

Stretching all the way from Ala Moana to Kapiʻolani Regional Park is Kalakaua Avenue, Honolulu’s premier shopping street. This lively thoroughfare is lined with shopping malls, luxury stores, and more restaurants and bars than you can count. 

Every visitor to Waikiki walks along this street at least once during their visit, as it’s the most lively part of the neighborhood. And while many of the shops are similar to what’s on the mainland, there are some cute souvenir shops to take a piece of Hawaii back home with you.

17. Rent Aquatic Trikes at the Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon

Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon is a manmade body of water on the western point of Waikiki Beach near the Hilton Hawaii Village . With calm and shallow waters, it’s a popular place for families or swimmers who aren’t quite daring enough to tackle the larger waves of the Pacific Ocean.

It also happens to be one of the only places where you can rent an Aqua Cycle, which is a three-wheeled water tricycle! By peddling, you can cruise around the lagoon while enjoying the nice views and marine life (there are lots of little fish swimming in the water).

Check out some of our favorite Waikiki accommodations with reviews! The Royal Hawaiian Hotel Review: stay at the pink palace (my absolute favorite Waikiki hotel) Moana Surfrider: the First Lady of Waikiki Beachcomber by Outrigger: our favorite value hotel in Waikiki

18. Ride in a Submarine

If you want to explore the ocean without getting wet, then book an underwater tour on the Atlantis XIV , a real life submarine! As you descend 100 feet below the ocean’s surface, you’ll come face-to-face with turtles, sharks, eels, and whatever else is lurking down there. 

To get to the submarine, you’ll take a small shuttle boat from the Hilton Hawaiian Village. This is an awesome excursion on its own, as you’ll be able to see Diamond Head, the Honolulu skyline, and even whales (if visiting in winter). 

From there, you’ll transfer to the submarine for your 45 to 50-minute-long dive. Unfortunately, this may not be an option for those with young kids, as all passengers need to be at least 36 inches tall. 

19. Enjoy a Luau

There’s a reason why Hawaiian luaus are popular with visitors. Not only do you get to learn about Polynesian history and culture, but you’ll also be treated to live entertainment and a delicious buffet feast. 

If you want to see a luau without leaving Waikiki, Queens Luau is your best bet. It’s not a luxury luau with ocean or sunset views (the show is inside the International Market Place Mall), but it’s an affordable option with pretty decent entertainment and food. 

Dinner starts at 6:00 PM, and the hula and fire knife dancing will follow at 6:45 PM. However, make sure to come early (doors open at 4:30 PM) so you can take part in the cultural activities beforehand.

If you’re looking for even more options, pick from the best luaus on Oahu (in our honest opinion).

20. Get a View From Above

There are so many wonderful places to soak in those gorgeous Hawaiian landscapes, but there’s no experience quite like seeing the island on a helicopter ride. With Honolulu Helicopter Tours , you can admire Oahu from high in the sky on one of the three different tour offerings.

The 18-minute and 30-minute tours are short jaunts over Waikiki, downtown Honolulu, Diamond Head, and the Diamond Head Lighthouse. However, you can also book the extended 60-minute flight, a circle island tour that also travels up the eastern coastline to the North Shore. 

All tours are private and, therefore, a bit on the pricier side. However, it’s really a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see Oahu from this perspective!

21. Head Out of Town on a Tour to Pearl Harbor

Although it’s technically not in Waikiki, Pearl Harbor is one of those things that every person should see at least once during their visit to Oahu. This historic attraction has four different museums that are worth visiting – the USS Arizona Memorial, the USS Bowfin Submarine, the USS Battleship Missouri, and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum.

If you are interested in visiting all of them, plan on spending a full day (9 to 12 hours) at Pearl Harbor. Some tours will include entrance to all four, while others will only make stops at one or two places. For the most flexibility, you can book a private tour, although this will be more expensive than a group tour.

You can check out a list of the best Pearl Harbor Tours here .

We strongly suggest reading through the exact itinerary for any tour you’re interested in. Not all companies include transportation to and from your hotel, so double-check the fine print if this is important to you. If you go with a larger group or bus tour, pickup will likely be at a set location in Waikiki. 

Related reads: 21 Amazing Things to Do on Oahu’s North Shore 7 Awesome Vacation Rentals in Waikiki: Pick The Right Place Book One of The 7 Best Snorkeling Tours on Oahu

The Best Oahu Itinerary

There’s a lot to consider when planning your trip to Oahu. Let’s narrow down your decisions to only the best with the Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary . The best restaurants, hotels and vacation rentals, beaches, things to do, and tours. We get specific , all the way down to where to park so you feel like a seasoned Hawaii traveler even if it’s your first time.

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I'm the co-founder, with my husband Jordan, of The Hawaii Vacation Guide. We have lived on Maui and Oahu and continue to travel, experience, and learn about the Hawaiian Islands. We travel with our kids, Henry and Edith. I am a planner! I love to plan trips from the mainland and island-hopping adventures, excursion days, and everything in-between. I spend a lot of my time in Hawai'i on a SUP and my favorite time of year in Hawai'i is whale season!

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Your Ultimate Guide for an Unforgettable First Time in Waikiki | Vacation-Waikiki.com

Waikiki is one of Hawaii’s most popular tourist destinations, especially for first-timers. If you’ve never visited Waikiki before, you likely have a few questions before booking your trip.

To answer all of your questions, we’ll cover a myriad of Waikiki-related subjects – how long to stay in Waikiki, when to visit the island, where to stay in Waikiki, how to get around the city, how to save money in Waikiki, popular activities, and more!

In order to guide your first experience in Waikiki, it’s important to clarify your intentions for the trip. You can begin planning after marking the following questions off your checklist.

The first question you should ask yourself will set the stage for your entire trip.

How long should you stay in Waikiki?

The answer to that question depends on what you want to see and do while in Waikiki. Those traveling on business are likely to plan a different type of stay than those who are traveling with loved ones. Regardless of your reason, most visitors who make Waikiki the crux of their trip stay for 7, 10 or 14 days.

If you stay in Waikiki for 7 days, stay in one location the entire time. If your trip will be longer, like 10 or 14 days, it might be worthwhile to try out multiple locations. Spend some time at a resort near the beach then some of your remaining vacation in the mountains, or even in Waikiki’s city center. If you’re planning on a two-week vacation, many people opt for day trips that let them explore the lesser-visited area surrounding Waikiki.

What month should I visit?

If you’re deciding which months to visit Waikiki, remember that there are only two real seasons in Hawaii. The summer season is called ‘Kau’. The winter season is called ‘Ho’oilo’. Waikiki’s winter season is normally the busiest as people attempt to escape the cold winters of their respective hometowns.

Many people agree that April to June or September to December are normally the best times to visit Waikiki. However, it’s important to remember that the word ‘best’ is subjective. The reason people believe that April to June and September to December are the most ideal months to visit lie in the fact that they are shoulder seasons.

Naturally, airfare and room rates will be cheaper and the city will be less crowded. Average temperatures during these time frames are nice enough for tourists to lounge at the beach without the Hawaiian sun’s intensity.

Waikiki and the whole island of Oahu host lots of cultural events from September to December. Examples include the Aloha Festivals, The Hawaii International Film Festival, and Moloka’i Hoe.

The peak of Waikiki’s summer season is from June to August. During these months, you’re significantly less likely to lose a day at the beach due to rain. Temperatures generally range from the 70s to 80s. You can expect hotels to charge more during this seasonal peak. If you need to guarantee availability, make sure you book your flights and rooms with plenty of time to spare.

If you’re visiting in this high season, you can expect hotels and condo chains to implement minimum nightly stay requirements. They will also have more stringent cancellation penalties. Airfare during the high season is often more expensive than other times of the year.

Rest assured that Waikiki will offer something different to tourists every month of the year. The rich culture of this city is on full display no matter the season. Expect to be impressed. If you want to experience Waikiki in it’s seasonal prime while the weather is perfect and cultural events are aplenty, chase that time frame. If you want a romantic getaway to have Waikiki to yourself, we recommend going in the months that are less busy.

What are the best ways to get to Hawaii? What are the best ways to get to Waikiki?

There are many different ways to travel to and around the Hawaiian Islands. No matter your budget or timeframe, you can find the right travel options for your stay in Waikiki. (Also see “ Where Should I Stay in Waikiki “)

The most common way to get to get to Hawaii is by plane. As the Hawaiian Islands are about 2,500 miles from California, plane travel is usually the quickest and cheapest option. If you are flying in from California, you can expect about a five and a half hour flight. However, if you are heading in from the Big Apple, make that 10 hours. International travel is much further, with flights from London taking up to 19 hours! Make sure you factor these flight times into your travel plans.

When flying into Hawaii, especially on an international flight, you can expect to arrive at the Honolulu International Airport. Honolulu is Hawaii’s capital city and is also the largest city on the Islands. Honolulu is located on the island of Oahu, so when traveling to Waikiki (also on Oahu), you can simply travel by car to arrive at your accommodations.

Oahu is a highly developed island. If you take a plane to Honolulu, there is a public transit system called TheBus that can take you around the entire island. Shuttles can be found around every corner at the Honolulu airport. The majority of Waikiki’s attractions can be found in a rather small radius so renting a car isn’t necessary if you plan to stay within the city for your trip.

If you don’t want to wait for a shuttle that leaves at a fixed time, Uber is a popular alternative for tourists in Hawaii. (Also see our BLOG post “ What is the best way to get from the airport “) Many people opt for a rental car, however. A 4×4 rental is the preferred option as many of the most spectacular drives are on rather rugged terrain. There’s no feeling that can compare to riding a Jeep around Hawaii while you listen to ‘Somewhere Over the Rainbow’.

However, if you are staying on any of the other islands like Maui or “The Big Island”, you will need to hop on a connecting flight or small seaplane to arrive at your final destination. In the opinion of many, Waikiki is the clear winner of Hawaiian vacation times. However, if you want to see all Hawaii has to offer, a cruise to the island chain might be a better fit for you.

There are major ports on most of the islands in Hawaii. Many cruises to Hawaii will schedule in time at each of the islands, so this option is a great way to “island-hop” with ultimate convenience! No need to plan a series of boats and small seaplanes to see all of the islands. Simply sit back and enjoy a Mai Tai, while the cruise handles everything for you.

If you don’t mind a “long commute” and would like to take your time getting to the Hawaiian Islands, you might try a cruise across the Pacific! Cruises to Hawaii can take anywhere from 5 days to several weeks. If you have the vacation time, this option is well-worth your saved up PTO.

These cruises are a perfect way to avoid a jet-lagged feeling. However, the time it requires to actually reach Hawaii makes this an alternative only to those who can afford lots of time off work.

Where to Stay in Waikiki

There are hundreds upon hundreds of hotels to choose from in Waikiki. Many people experience paralysis by analysis in their valiant attempts to choose the perfect accommodations. Again, the term ‘perfect accommodations’ is subjective depending on your tastes and preferences.

Have faith – because we have a comprehensive list of the best hotels in Waikiki. (Also see Whether you’re in search of a romantic, luxurious experience or you’re trying to find something large enough for the whole family, Waikiki certainly offers what you need. You just need to know where to look.

Waikiki is Hawaii’s oldest resort area. The region was once a highly contested land between the Hawaiian people and was originally used as the first surf spot for ancient Hawaiian kings. The first big resort, the Moana Surfrider, was built in 1901. It’s guaranteed that any young girl who is a Disney fan will love staying at a hotel with such a name.

Another resort with significant historical impact for Waikiki is the Royal Hawaiian Hotel. Both are a great choice. Now, some of the best hotels in town are the Queen Kapiolani, Outriggers, the Hyatt Regency, Waikiki Parc, and Waikiki Circle. Honestly, it’s hard to make a bad choice with Waikiki accommodations. Everything offers something unique and different.

Waikiki Parc and Waikiki Circle offer a boutique hotel experience smack dab in the middle of Waikiki’s Fort Derussy Beach Park. Hale Koa is another hotel nearby this location that comes highly recommended.

If beachside hotels aren’t your thing (we don’t judge) and you’re after a hotel that’s closer to Waikiki’s city center, look into the Pagoda Hotel. It’s a rather modest and cost-effective option that offers a unique experience. There is a floating restaurant in the middle of the hotel.

Prince Waikiki is an ideal option for those in pursuit of luxury. Rooms cost a bit more but you certainly get what you pay for. Imagine drinking a margarita next to the resort’s infinity pool as you overlook the crashing waves on the beach. It’s paradise.

The very first hotel in Waikiki was more of a guest house – a 19th century Airbnb, if you will. This little bed and breakfast was called ‘Sans Souci’ which is the French phrase meaning ‘without worries’. Tourism started growing and the construction of hotels began to rapidly expand a few years after Sans Souci became popular.

As is the case with any large tourism city, an increase in the number of hotels means you’ll find cheaper prices to attract your business. Cheap hotels can be found with the right filter settings. The beauty of a cost-effective room in Waikiki is that you don’t have to sacrifice luxury. While some rooms are certainly nicer than others, the magic of this city is in the beauty offered from every vantage point. You don’t need a 6 or 7 figure salary to experience the splendor and extravagant living that Waikiki offers tourists.

Cost of vacation/Saving money

Many people are curious about the cost of their trip to Waikiki. Your costs are entirely dependent on the type of adventure you seek. Whether you’re a backpacker, honeymooner, or after a relaxing family vacation, Waikiki offers a vast array of pricing options to suit your budget. (Also see “What Does It Cost To Visit Waikiki” )

For those trying to be frugal, we recommend alternatives to the hotel experience. Couch surfing, Airbnb, and hostels are the best way to save money in Waikiki. While you’re certainly sacrificing the luxury of a fancier trip, these cost-effective alternatives offer an exciting trip for those on a budget. Plus, there’s a certain gravitas one holds when knowing they’re having a similar experience as others for a much cheaper price.

Some of Hawaii’s best restaurants are in Waikiki. It’s tempting to spend a pretty penny dining in this food mecca, but cheap options are available if you know where to look. After all, local Hawaiians aren’t eating at boutique fusion restaurants every single day. It wouldn’t possibly be affordable. Follow the locals – cheap eats offer the best and most authentic experiences for your taste buds. (Also see “ How To Eat Cheaply In Waikiki “)

You’ll find major chains all across Waikiki. If you have kids who are picky eaters, these eateries can be a sight for sore eyes. After all, who wouldn’t wear a Hard Rock Waikiki shirt? It’s a safe bet that every resort will also offer a (sometimes pricey) restaurant experience. Most of the local cheap eats can be found on the outskirts of the city. The roads from Waikiki back to the Honolulu airport offer a lot of cheap eats, too.

As a general rule of thumb, it’s important to know that Hawaiians are some of the most friendly people in the entire world. Southern hospitality is blended with an exotic lifestyle in Waikiki – and the smiles on the faces of those around you will prove it. Ask one of the friendly locals for their favorite spot. Many are happy to share their culture and will appreciate that you sought out advice from them.

There are tons of local hot spots and food trucks/stands available for your selection. (Also see “ The Best Food Trucks In Waikiki “). Most locals eat at Karai Crab, Uncle Bo’s, and Rainbow Drive Inn. Some of the other popular food options for those on a budget are Cuckoo Coconuts, Musubi Cafe, and Waikiki Beachside Kitchen. Blue Ocean Hawaii is a great place if you’re after cheap but delicious seafood. Go to Henry’s Place if you’re in need of a sweet treat. (Also see “ Where Do The Locals Eat In Waikiki “)

Activities around Waikiki

Waikiki Beach is known as the most fun beach in Hawaii. The best activities in Waikiki are concentrated in or around the vicinity of the city. When you come to visit this dreamlike beach paradise, you certainly won’t have to go on a long trek to find activities worth pursuing. The most popular activities in Waikiki are relaxing beachside, paddle boarding, surfing, snorkeling, jet-skiing, parasailing, riding aqua cycles, practicing yoga, hula dancing, canoe racing, and volleyball! (Also see “ What To Do In Waikiki “)

There are 5 beaches in Hawaii and each stretch of sand offers something slightly different. The names of the beaches of Waikiki are Queen’s Beach, Kuhio Beach, Gray’s Beach, Fort DeRussy Beach, and Kahanamoku Beach. Break out your Kindle, lather on some sunscreen, grab a cold coconut to drink and sit back for an extraordinarily relaxing afternoon.

The Waikiki skyline is definitely different than the average American skyline. While there are plenty of tall resorts, hotels, and even skyscrapers, the skyline here is special because of a geological feature called ‘Diamond Head’. This volcanic cone in the backdrop of your Waikiki beach Instagram pictures is sure to be a hit. You can even climb the mountain if you are feeling particularly athletic.

Whether you’re an experienced surfer or looking to learn, Waikiki is an ideal place to refine your surfing skills. After all, that’s part of the founding story of this great land. Rental shops and surf instructors can be found around every corner. Surfing is like golf… it’s only really fun if you’re good at it. If you don’t fall into the ‘succesful surfer’ category, look into renting paddle boards. The relatively new and popular sport of paddle-boarding is a great way to explore the water. Some tourists even chose to ride their paddle boards in the breaking waves.

Surf shops aren’t the only rental stores in town. Even more prevalent than board rentals are snorkel/scuba rentals in Waikiki. This is one of the city’s main attractions, and understandably so. After a few seconds underwater, you’re instantly transported to a different world. Bright colors and huge schools of tropical fish are around every turn.

You can also rent an experience. If you thought the view from the beach was nice, just wait until you see Waikiki Beach from a parasail. We also recommend renting a jet-ski by the hour. Just make sure you steer clear of the crowds! If you’re feeling like something new, try out an aqua-bike. These goofy ways to navigate the water will definitely make for a great and memorable photograph. There are also a number of great yoga options available. If you’re in search of an authentic cultural experience, look no further than a hula dance. Hula dancing has a vast history in Hawaii and you’ll be remiss if you pass on your opportunity to see such a show. Let the liquid courage from your mai tais show off your newly tanned skin!

Hula shows typically incorporate fire twirling. Imagine a baton twirler who looks like Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson dipping the ends of his baton into a fire. Fire twirling sounds dangerous (and it probably is for those actually holding the fire), but you’re in great hands with the Waikiki professionals who do this for a living. The Molokai Hoe Canoe Race is a spectacle that only comes once a year. These canoe races date back to 1910 and 1920. It’s one of the largest cultural events Hawaii has to offer. While you might not be competing, it will still surely be a fantastic experience to see this beach city come alive during the annual tradition.

If you are in Waikiki during the rainy season, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the number of activities available to you. Located right on Waikiki Beach is the Waikiki Aquarium. For those that don’t snorkel, this is a perfect alternative to get up close and personal with the fish. This center is actually the second oldest aquarium in the United States.

Another great option for those interesting in seeing the incredible underwater wildlife of Waikiki is to hop aboard one of the Atlantis Submarine tours. This company allows you to access the world’s largest recreational submarine. It’s a great alternative for those who won’t or can’t scuba dive.

If you’re in search of something culturally interesting, we recommend the Iolani Palace. It’s important to recognize the vast history that existed in Hawaii before it became a member of the United States. The Iolani Palace is the only royal palace located inside the US and was originally home to the former king of Hawaii.

Hawaii has had significant cultural happenings since joining the United States, as well. You can tour the U.S. Army Museum of Hawaii in Waikiki. The building is located near Fort DeRussy and is the perfect outing for military buffs who want to learn more about the island’s history during World War I.

Pearl Harbor is actually located only 30 minutes from the center of Waikiki. This world-famous landmark is known for changing US history forever. There are five separate historical sites related to Pearl Harbor and it’s recommended that visitors spend 1-2 hours at each spot.

If you have a car, the Pearl Harbor exhibits are all easy to access. A quick drive around the outskirts of town can lead you to some absolutely stunning locations. Take a day trip to any beach and you’ll feel happy to get away from the crowds. That being said, no beach compares to any of the 5 beaches that sit on Waikiki’s edge.

If your interest in culture leans more towards art than history, then you have to check out the Epic Aloha Art Museum. Epic Aloha is a series of twelve interactive art installations that allow the viewers to become immersed in a truly unique Hawaiian experience. You can find this building at the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort. Make sure that you book in advance.

Waikiki is the ultimate destination for those in need of pampering. The Na Ho’ola Spa is a perfect way to feel treated like Hawaiian royalty. Na Ho’ola roughly translates to ‘many healers’ in the Hawaiian language. Try the ‘lomi lomi’ treatment and thank us later. Massages, saunas, and much more are all offered here. Treat yourself! Luxury Row is the best place in Waikiki to shop until you drop. This high-end shopping experience is a great option for rainy days. Even if it’s out of your budget, it can be fun to walk the strip and peer into these designer stores.

If you have kids, there are lots of activities meant for families. (Also see “ A Moms guide to Waikiki ” and “ Kid Friendly Things To Do In Waikiki “). Escape rooms have become increasingly popular in the past few years and are available in Waikiki if you book ahead of time. However, after a long plane ride with children to Hawaii, you might already feel as though you’ve checked this one off the list.

All in all, there’s an abundance of activities for absolutely anyone. Waikiki offers something no matter your personality type, price range, or age. Even if rain is stopping tourists from enjoying the beach, it’s impossible to be bored in this paradise on Earth.

Waikiki is a dream. No matter when you visit, how you get there, what you spend, or what you do, we can personally guarantee that you’ll have a trip you remember for the rest of your entire life. Have fun!

Related Questions :

What are things one must do in Waikiki?

If you visit Waikiki, you can’t leave without seeing the beautiful beaches or aquatic life offered just beyond the sand. Visit Pearl Harbor, ride in the Atlantis Submarine, and eat at a luau – these are mandatory for anyone looking to have a once in a lifetime experience in Waikiki.

Things to see in Waikiki

Waikiki is a sight for sore eyes. No matter where you look, you’ll find something captivating, mesmerizing, or plain jaw-dropping. Most people choose to see Pearl Harbor. If you want a more relaxing experience, try to dolphin-watch. A Hula dancing show with a drink in hand is the perfect sight after a long day.

Foster Daly

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The Perfect Oahu Itinerary | 3, 5, and 7 Days (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

Wondering the best way to spend up to 1 week on Oahu? Our Oahu itinerary includes all the best attractions and sights around this stunning Hawaiian island!

The most visited of the Hawaiian Islands , Oahu, is referred to as the “Gathering Place” for obvious reasons. 

Home to world-famous beaches, like Waikiki Beach on the South Shore or the iconic surf beaches of the North Shore, Oahu is notorious for its towering waves that reach over 30 feet in the winter.

These waves, particularly those on the North Shore, lure in surfers worldwide to show off their skills and bravery to conquer these impressive waves.

And though the crystal clear blue waters and white-sand beaches of Oahu are famous, drawing in millions of visitors every year, there is more to the third largest of the Hawaiian Islands than its beaches. 

Oahu is full of history, culture, and traditions, which can be experienced in most of its top attractions.

Another impactful reason why Oahu attracts millions of visitors each year is that it was the place of the World War II Pearl Harbor attack, resulting in multiple memorials established on the still active military base on Ford Island. 

To experience the best attractions during your trip, use our crafted Oahu itinerary for three, five, and seven days on the island.

Our itinerary for Oahu covers the best things to do, and allows you the flexibility to spend anywhere from 3 days to one week in this tropical paradise!

Table of Contents

Day 1 Morning – Sunset Beach

Day 1 afternoon – turtle bay , day 1 evening – polynesian cultural center , day 2 morning – shark’s cove, day 2 afternoon – waimea valley, day 2 evening – waimea bay , day 3 morning – laniakea beach , day 3 afternoon – haleiwa surf town , day 3 evening – dole plantation , day 4 morning – pearl harbor national memorial , day 4 afternoon – ford island, day 4 evening – hilton hawaiian village waikiki beach resort, day 5 morning – waikiki beach , day 5 afternoon – hike diamond head state monument, day 5 evening – hanauma bay , day 6 morning – sea life park hawaii, day 6 afternoon – lanikai beach , day 6 evening – kailua beach , day 7 morning – kaneohe bay , day 7 afternoon – kualoa regional park , day 7 evening – kualoa ranch , when is the best time to visit oahu, hawaii, getting around oahu, hawaii, best hostel in oahu, best mid-range hotel in oahu, best luxury hotel in oahu, how to spend up to 7 days in oahu itinerary.

From catching waves on the North Shore or the South Shore to learning about Polynesian culture, there are plenty of popular things to do in Oahu.

Our itinerary for Oahu is designed to establish a core three-day itinerary that can be extended to five and seven days for a fulfilling and memorable experience on this breathtaking island! 

Check out our ultimate guide to the 25 best things to do in Hawaii for more ideas!

Core 3-Day Oahu Itinerary

This Oahu itinerary is the core of any trip to the tropical paradise of this Hawaiian Island. Three days is the minimum recommended time to be spent in Oahu, and we’ve curated this itinerary so you can make the most out of your trip during your three days on the island! 

Day 1 in Oahu

Start your first day in Oahu by hitting the refreshing clear blue waters of Sunset Beach on the North Shore for a swim.

Then, check out Turtle Bay for sightings of endangered species of green sea turtles and Hawaiian monk seals. Finally, end the day with an exceptional cultural experience at the Polynesian Cultural Center, voted the top attraction on Oahu! 

A two-mile stretch of sandy heaven on the North Shore of Oahu, Sunset Beach is a legendary surfing spot for its massive waves in the winter.

Big wave surfing is a hit here, so if you’re visiting during the winter, watching these courageous and experienced surfers hit these dangerously large waves can be worth the watch! 

During the summer, the waves at Sunset Beach are much flatter and safe for swimming and snorkeling in. And, if you time it right, you can bask in the most vibrant and colorful sunsets at Sunset Beach, hence the name. 

Read Next: Don’t plan your time in the Hawaiian Islands without or Hawaiian itinerary guide.

Named after the green sea turtles that once fed in the bay, Turtle Bay is on the north shore of Oahu, located between Kuilima Point and Protection Point. 

The picturesque scenery here is unforgettable, with its clear blue waters and white sands. Nearby is the luxurious Turtle Bay Resort , set on 850 acres with views of Kuilima Cove. At Turtle Bay Resort, guests can access snorkeling, swimming, cultural lessons, hiking trails, and more! 

While visiting Turtle Bay, there is a chance you may spot humpback whales, turtles, and Hawaiian monk seals while savoring the impeccable wild coastline views. 

Located on the north shore of Oahu, the Polynesian Cultural Center has been consistently voted the island’s #1 attraction!

A living museum, the center’s six Polynesian villages, and performances bring the Polynesian spirit to life for visitors to experience the rich history and culture of the Pacific Islands.

Visitors to the Polynesian Cultural Center can wander the 42 acres of tropical land filled with interactive activities as natives demonstrate the beauty of tradition, arts, and crafts.

Then, end the day enjoying an authentic Polynesian lūʻau for an exceptionally memorable first day on the island!

• Address: 55-370 Kamehameha Hwy, Laie, HI 96762
• Phone Number: (800) 367-7060
• Hours:   12:30 PM – 9 PM (Monday-Tuesday, Thursday-Saturday), Closed (Wednesday, Sunday)

Visiting another Hawaiian Island? Check out our list of the best things to do in Maui !

Day 2 in Oahu

Start day two of your itinerary for Oahu with snorkeling at one of the top diving destinations in the world: Shark’s Cove. Walk amongst history and encompassing natural beauty at the sacred Waimea Valley.

Go cliff diving in the summer at Waimea Bay between swimming in the water and lazing in the sun! 

Featured as one of the Top Twelve Shore Dives In The World by Scuba Diving Magazine, Shark’s Cove is a must-visit on the north shore of Oahu if you want an unrivaled snorkeling and diving experience!

Shark’s Cove is a small section of Pupukea Beach Park, the bottom of its blue waters creating small caves for marine habitats to prosper or hide.

The walls of the cliffs forming the cove are a calm pool for fish to swim in, away from the threat of the open water. This continues to the Pupukea tide pools on the south side of Sharks Cove, a popular spot for families to take their kids to explore the waters. 

Read Next: Read this post so that you don’t miss out on all of the best places to visit in Hawaii .

Waimea Valley is a vital part of Hawaiian history, representing Hawaii’s culture, tradition, and spirituality.

The mission of Hi’ipaka is to share and celebrate the living representation of the Hawaiian culture of Waimea Valley with the world. 

Acting as a botanical garden and sacred historical site, Waimea Valley is a unique experience you should not pass up. It features some of the best waterfalls in Hawaii, some of which are safe to swim at while savoring the lush nature of Oahu’s forests.

Waimea Falls is one of the most notorious hikes, easy for families to trek, and one of the spots to go swimming as the sound of the rushing waterfall fills the background. 

• Address: Haleiwa, HI 96712
• Phone Number: (808) 638-7766
• Hours: 9 AM – 4 PM (Tuesday-Sunday), Closed (Monday)

On Oahu’s north shore, Waimea Bay is legendary for its 30-foot waves that attract surfers worldwide to surf during winter!

The most popular spot for watching these surfers hit the waves is at Banzai Pipeline and Sunset Beach. However, in the summer at Waimea Bay, the waters are much more tranquil, perfect for swimming, diving, and snorkeling.

You’ll even notice daring cliff divers launch off the massive half-submerged rock on the shore into the water below! 

Read Next: Be sure to add these great things to do in Oahu while you’re there!

Day 3 in Oahu

Laze in the sun with massive sea turtles at Laniakea Beach while basking in the breathtaking coastal views. Grab a shaved ice and go shopping in a historic surf town.

Try the world-famous Dole soft serve and find your way out of the maze at Dole Plantation. Day 3 of your itinerary for Oahu is going to be action-packed!

Translating to the “wide sky,” Laniakea Beach’s breathtaking scenery is a wondrous sight, even with the turtles lazing about on its sands.

Laniakea Beach is most commonly called “Turtle Beach” because of all the turtles seen at this Oahu beach. 

Many people come to this glorious beach to observe the giant sea turtles as they cuddle in the sand and soak in the sun’s warming rays. It’s a highlight of any Hawaiian vacation!

Picnicking and setting up on the sand to relish the beautiful sights is common at Laniakea Beach. However, the water is known for being a bit rough, so proceeding with caution is important! 

A historical and cultural hub spot, Haleʻiwa is a charming surf town on Oahu’s North Shore.

Throughout Haleʻiwa are cute boutiques, quality restaurants, historic plantation buildings, unique surf shops, and defining art galleries. 

Numerous food trucks serve delicacies like fresh shrimp and shave ice for a refreshing snack before surfers hit the water and visitors take on the town for fun finds. Shave ice is a classic Hawaiian treat, so definitely try some while visiting Hawaii!

The town of Haleʻiwa is included in the Seven Mile Miracle of Hawaii, one of the most revered concentrated stretches of surf breaks known on the planet. 

A historic pineapple plantation, the Dole Plantation is one of the best attractions on the island of Oahu, drawing in over a million visitors every year!

Home to the world’s largest maze in 2008, the Pineapple Garden Maze at the Dole Plantation features almost three miles of winding paths across three acres of land. The maze is made up of 14,000 native Hawaiian plants.

The plantation started as a fruit stand in 1950 and has since solidified itself as one of the top Oahu attractions, serving up its world-famous Dole Soft Serve. 

• Address: 64-1550 Kamehameha Hwy, Wahiawa, HI 96786
• Phone Number: (808) 621-8408
• Hours: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM (Daily)

Read next: The 21 Best Things To Do In Kauai, Hawaii

5 Day Oahu Itinerary

Are you looking for a 5-day Oahu itinerary? If you decide to extend your Oahu vacation, simply add the five-day itinerary to the core three-day itinerary for a memorable and fulfilling trip!

Day 4 in Oahu

Today, head to the South Shore of the island to learn about the impactful history of Oahu and the United States at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial.

Then, visit the active military base and home of history at Ford Island. Finally, check out the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort, where non-guests can enjoy the saltwater lagoon and hit the beach for a day of family fun! 

The location of one of the most impactful moments in United States history, the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, is where the attack on Pearl Harbor by Japanese Forces in World War II occurred.

The memorial preserves the USS Arizona Memorial, the ship that sank after being hit by a missile and then bombs. 

Visiting Pearl Harbor and its museums is free, though reservations are recommended as it can get crowded at these popular attractions.

This Pearl Harbor, Arizona Memorial & Honolulu City Tour guides you through downtown Honolulu while learning in-depth educational facts about the historical sites and memorials. 

• Address: 1 Arizona Memorial Pl, Honolulu, HI 96818
• Phone Number: (808) 422-3399
• Hours : 7 AM – 5 PM (Daily)

An islet located in the center of Pearl Harbor, Ford Island , is used by the United States Navy for battle simulations and training. The native name of the island is Mokuʻumeʻume, though Ford Island has been called Little Goats Island, Rabbit Island, and Marin’s Island. 

Ford Island is an active military base and home to the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, the Battleship Missouri Memorial, the USS Oklahoma Memorial, and the USS Utah Memorial.

A visit here is full of history, having been named on the National Register of Historic Places and a National Historic Landmark. 

An upscale resort settled on 22 acres that stretches across Waikiki Beach, Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort features a spa, five pools, a saltwater lagoon, an oceanfront steakhouse, and 20 restaurants. 

Whether you stay at this classy hotel or not is up to you, but guests and visitors alike can hit up the resort’s saltwater lagoon – Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon. The five-acre lagoon is perfect for lazing in the water or on beach chairs and trying stand-up paddle yoga.

Outside the resort is Duke Kahanamoku Beach, where visitors can take surf lessons or savor the immaculate vibes of soaking up the sun while sipping on a refreshing pina colada! 

• Address: 2005 Kālia Rd, Honolulu, HI 96815
• Phone Number: (808) 949-4321

Here is our full list of the best things to do in Honolulu if you find yourself with extra time!

Day 5 in Oahu

Learn how to surf at one of the world’s most famous beaches, and then try hiking Diamond Head State Monument for a fun day out in nature. Finally, snorkel your way through the magical waters of Hanauma Bay, stock full of vibrant colored marine life! 

Drawing millions of visitors every year, Waikiki Beach is by far one of the most famous beaches in the world!

Visitors to Waikiki Beach are welcomed by the iconic statue of surfing legend and father, Duke Kahanamoku.

This beach, in particular, is notorious for being an excellent location for learning how to surf and paddle on authentic Hawaiian canoes due to its lasting wave breaks. From Waikiki Beach are inspiring observational points of Diamond Head and the sea. 

Consider this Waikiki snorkel and sailing adventure to cruise on a catamaran, whale watch, go snorkeling, and sail the waters for a rejuvenating experience!  

Diamond Head is a volcanic cone on Oahu, and its ridgeline is likened to a tuna fish’s dorsal fin, hence its Hawaiian name Lēʻahi (brow of the tuna).

When British soldiers traveled to the surrounding location in the 19th century, they mistakenly believed the calcite crystals on one of the nearby beaches were diamonds, hence its name, Diamond Head. 

The Diamond Head State Monument is accessible by a hiking trail that traverses a scenic path up to the 300,000-year-old volcanic crater. From this spot, hikers can relish the breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the island of Oahu.

This Diamond Head Sunrise Hike takes you up to breathe in the panoramic views atop Diamond Head as the sun rises, then savor a refreshing acai bowl and sweet treat for a rewarding delight!

Home to a prosperous marine ecosystem, Hanauma Bay was formed within a volcanic cone. The marine embayment is part of a tuff ring, its waters thriving with tropical fish, playful dolphins, and gentle sea turtles. 

Snorkeling and swimming are popular activities within Hanauma Bay, thanks to the safe swimming waters and optimal marine life sightings.

There is a rental shop for renting out snorkel gear, picnic tables, restrooms, showers, locker rentals, a gift shop, and a food concession stand, making it easy to spend a whole day scouring the waters of Hanauma Bay!

7-Day Oahu Itinerary

Our 3-day itinerary is the core of any trip to Oahu for a fantastic start to your vacation on the island. However, if you plan on staying longer, our 7 day Oahu itinerary compiles even more top attractions.

With 7 days on Oahu, you’ll have more time to explore the rugged Windward Coast, which is often overlooked by the Oahu North Shore and South Shore. Get ready to have the trip of a lifetime with our 7-day Oahu itinerary!

Day 6 in Oahu

For day 6 in Oahu, you’ll head to the Windward Coast, a dramatic and beautiful corner of the East Coast of the island. Visit Sea Life Park and hit up the two top-ranked beaches, Lanikai Beach and Kailua Beach, for a breathtaking experience in a tropical paradise!

Located on Oahu’s Windward Coast, Sea Life Park is an aquarium, bird sanctuary, and marine mammal park all in one.

Then, take your pick between two of the world’s most pristine beaches, Lanikai Beach and Kailua Beach, nestled conveniently next door to one another, to savor the undeniable beauty of Oahu! 

At Sea Life Park, visitors can experience the magic of many beautiful marine creatures that focuses on conservation and education. This is a great activity for the whole family!

• Address: 41-202 Kalanianaʻole Hwy, Waimanalo Beach, HI 96795
• Phone Number: (808) 259-2500
• Hours: 10 AM – 4 PM (Daily)

You need to have at least a few relaxing beach days while visiting Oahu! Also known as Kaʻōhao Beach, Lanikai Beach is nestled on the east shore of Oahu.

Representing Oahu as one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, Lanikai Beach is frequently ranked as one of the best beaches across the globe!

The cool blue waters are a sight for sore eyes, the sand soft to the touch. Experience a bit of heaven at Lanikai Beach while savoring the breathtaking ocean views! 

One of the other top-ranking beaches on Oahu, Kailua Beach, is an absolute stunner next to Lanikai Beach! The two beaches are within walking distance of one another, so you can get a taste of both worlds at these top-ranked beaches.

Kailua Beach hosts a longer stretch of sand than Lanikai Beach, perfect for settling down in the sand and basking in the awe-inspiring views of the turquoise waters and mountain backdrops. 

Day 7 in Oahu

Picture the iconic sights of Kaneohe Bay before you as you explore the waters of this enriching location on Oahu.

Then, sink your toes into the sand and kayak to an island of legends at Kualoa Regional Park. Finally, to end this 7-day Oahu itinerary, visit the iconic filming locations of the famous Jurassic Park movies at Kualoa Ranch!

The largest sheltered body of water of the main Hawaiian Islands, Kaneohe Bay, is established by a reef. It homes a sandbar and five islands, including the well-loved Coconut Island. These qualities have made Kaneohe Bay a popular boating, fishing, and kayaking spot. 

The stunning blue waters of Kaneohe Bay make for an impactful picture. In fact, Kaneohe Bay has been the backdrop for quite a few famous movies, including Adam Sandler’s 50 First Dates . Surrounding the bay is the Ko’olau Mountain range, establishing an iconic backdrop. 

Settled on Kāneʻohe Bay, Kualoa Regional Park sprawls across 153 acres, its beachfront area set within sight of the island of Mokoli’i.

This island is featured in ancient legends and is said to be the tail of the creature slain by the goddess Pele. As a result, many come to Koʻolau Range to kayak to the island from the beachy shore.

It has a long stretch of grassy space that separates it from the Kamehameha Highway, so visitors of the park can simmer in the crash of the waves at the beach. 

• Address: 49-479 Kamehameha Hwy, Kaneohe, HI 96744
• Phone Number: (808) 768-8974
• Hours: 7 AM – 8 PM (Daily)

Famous for being the filming location of the Jurassic Park series, the 4,000-acre Kualoa Ranch is a private nature reserve and working cattle ranch overflowing with thriving nature. 

On Kualoa Ranch’s Jurassic Adventure Tour, guests are taken on an adventure of the iconic film sites within the Hakipu’u, Kualoa, and Ka’a’awa Valleys.

The tour takes visitors to the authentic dinosaur cages used for the movies and sightings of the Indominus Rex paddock and its 60-foot walls! 

• Address: Kaneohe, HI 96744
• Phone Number: (808) 237-7321
• Hours : 7:30 AM – 6 PM (Daily)

Read next: 21 Best Things To Do In Waikiki, Hawaii

Oahu, Hawaii Travel Guide

Now that you know all about the wonders of Oahu, you can plan some of the logistics! From getting a rental car, to planning the best time to visit, to booking a hotel or vacation rental, here are some travel tips for visiting Oahu!

The best time to visit Oahu is in the off-season when tourist crowds aren’t so large, and weather conditions are still ideal for adventuring the island’s great outdoors.

We recommend visiting in April, May, September, and October. These months are also the cheapest months to visit, so look out for some great deals during your stay! 

If you’re visiting the island for those iconic surf breaks, you’ll want to visit in winter. This is when the waves are at their biggest and best! But remember, these waves are for experienced surfers only. If you’re a beginner surfer, you can learn to surf on small waves at any time of year.

When traveling around Oahu, a rental car is the best way to get around. You have the freedom to go wherever, whenever.

But if you don’t want to rent a car, Oahu’s bus system is one of the best in the United States and is one of the cheapest transportation methods on the island (minus walking, but that can only get you so far!). 

There’s also this Honolulu Airport private transfer for when you fly in or out of Honolulu Airport. The transfer can fit up to 14 passengers in the private van, perfect for big groups or families visiting the island. 

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

Where to Stay in Oahu, Hawaii

If you’re wondering where to stay in Oahu, there are great options for every budget! Waikiki is the most popular area to stay with the most options, and it’s near the airport. From here you can rent a car or book tours to the rest of the attractions on Oahu!

Offering a range of selections, The Beach Waikiki Hostel by ALOH has pickings for private bedrooms and dorm rooms during your stay in Oahu. Only two blocks from the famous Waikiki Beach, this hostel is a great stay featuring fun and welcoming vibes with a desirable location near Oahu’s best attractions.

Boasting a desirable location, Waikiki Central Hotel is within walking distance of top Oahu activities, such as the US Army Museum of Hawaii, Waikiki Beach, and Kuhio Beach. From the rooms, guests have balcony views of the city from above while savoring their relaxing stay on the island. 

Only three miles from Diamond Head, ESPACIO The Jewel of Waikiki is a luxurious and elegant hotel perfect for living the lavish life in paradise on Oahu. Guests can access desirable amenities and accommodations, including airport transfers, the hotel’s spa, the resort pool, and a Japanese-French restaurant. 

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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The Perfect Oahu Itinerary: How to Make the Most of 5 Days in Oahu

last Updated: April 24, 2024 hawaii oahu

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

Headed off to Hawaii and looking for the perfect Oahu itinerary? Keep reading for a fun-filled 5 days in Oahu, which will cover everything you need to know and then some! Soft sandy beaches, that cool island breeze, and of course a few mai tais await! Pack your bags, we’re off to Oahu!

Ohhh — Hawaii. A place we love and frequent quite often. I mean, how could we not living so close by in San Francisco (ok, so it is a 5 hour flight, but who’s counting).

Oahu is the most touristy island in Hawaii (and also the most visited!), but we still love it! It’s a complete island paradise full of over 125 beaches, famous world-class surf, the bustling city of Honolulu, and a unique Polynesian history. From the waterfalls, snorkeling, and waves to hip nightlife, trendy eats, and modern shopping, we just can’t get enough of the third largest island in Hawaii.

The island is home to the state’s capital and largest city, Honolulu. Because of this, Oahu is a blend of buzzy city life and beachy island oasis. Don’t miss the North Shore — we love it up there! There’s truly something for everyone — super soft sand, delicious malasadas, easy (and strenuous) hiking opportunities, and action-packed adventures for those thrill-seekers.

You’ll see after reading through this Oahu itinerary that it’s nearly impossible to get bored here. And if you’re a photographer or just love getting fun IG pics, don’t miss out on these Oahu photo spots ! The island is oh so colorful — I had such a hard time putting my camera away!

Yes, we love Maui the most , but Oahu will always be memorable to us (for a few reasons!). We spent my 30th birthday skydiving on the north shore (STILL cannot believe we did that), and my husband even ran his first-ever Hawaiian marathon on Oahu (he’s since ran marathons on Kauai and Maui )! Me? I don’t run, I just welcome him at the finish line with malasadas.

→ Read Next: The Ultimate Hawaii Bucket List (with over 200 things to do on the islands!)

So what are you waiting for? Grab a mai tai and let’s dig in! I’ve got a full Oahu itinerary planned out, plus all the logistics you need to plan your trip.

Oahu Itinerary in a Nutshell

• Day 1 : Pearl Harbor + Honolulu 
• Day 2 : Diamond Head + Waikiki
• Day 3 : Hanauma Bay Snorkeling + Southeast Oahu 
• Day 4 : Pillbox Hike + Lanikai Beach + More
• Day 5 : North Shore + Dole Plantation

About this Oahu Itinerary: You can easily change around any of the days (for example, day 2 of this Oahu itinerary on your actual day 4, etc), as there’s not really a rhyme or reason why I chose this specific order. I did however (carefully) group each day’s activities, so you’ll wanna keep those together for less driving and maximum island time. 🙂

Island Hopping in Hawaii: Planning on doing some island hopping? Check out these additional resources:

• The Perfect 5 Day Maui Itinerary
• 3 Days in Kauai (well worth a few days!)
• 10 Days in Hawaii (ultimate island-hopping resource)
• The Ultimate Hawaii Bucket List 
• 25+ Places to Eat in Oahu (foodies trip, anyone?!)

Where is Oahu?

Oahu is one of the main islands of Hawaii, located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. It’s the second farthest from the mainland, between the islands of Kauai (the farthest) and Maui/Molokai.

Everyone always talks about Honolulu and Waikiki, and yup — those are both on the island of Oahu!

Logistics for your 5 Day Oahu Itinerary

How to get to oahu.

Oahu is in fact an island, so you’ll obviously need to fly there! When you fly into Oahu, you’ll be heading into Honolulu International Airport (code HNL) . Make sure to look out the window as you arrive — the turquoise waters will blow you away before you even touch land!

Thankfully, there’s tons of nonstop flights from the mainland headed to Honolulu International, Hawaii’s largest airport. And because of this, you may be able to find slightly cheaper tickets than to the neighboring islands of Maui and Kauai.

Flight Time: No matter where you’re coming from, it’ll take a while to get to Hawaii (flying across the Pacific takes time!)

Flights from SFO (San Francisco) to Oahu are roughly 5 hours, 20 minutes, with the flight from LAX (Los Angeles) being slightly longer at 5 hours, 40 minutes. 

Obviously, if you’re coming from elsewhere on the mainland, flight times will vary!

Psst → the flight home will always be at least an hour shorter due to wind patterns.

Flight Prices: I normally find flights from the West Coast to Hawaii for approximately $450, although I’ve seen them offered as low as in the $300’s roundtrip. 

And now with nonstops from Southwest in the picture, I can sometimes find flights from SFO to Honolulu for as low as $200 round trip. If you ever see one of those babies, snag them right up (they don’t stay around for long).

Should you stop on the West Coast of the mainland first? Well, that’s entirely up to you, but I’d highly recommend it! Not only will you possibly save a few pennies on the flights, but you can spend a few days in California (while adjusting to the West Coast time zone, ultimately helping with jet lag in Hawaii) and get two trips outta one!

How to Get Around Oahu

If you’re just planning on staying within the city (Honolulu), you can easily get by with walking and taking the trolley. 

BUT — don’t spend all your time in Honolulu! Promise me you’ll venture out to other parts of the island! Doing so means you’ll need to get around some other way. 

If you plan to explore the North Shore (a must), relax at Lanikai Beach, and/or watch the sunset at the Tantalus Lookout (our favorite) with ease, public transport just won’t cut it. Planning on following this Oahu itinerary? You’ll undoubtedly need to rent a car.

Renting a Car:

Most people who come to Oahu rent a car. The island is pretty spread out (besides the bustling city of Honolulu), so you’ll want an easy way to get around. Driving in Oahu is easy, although you will experience some traffic in the busier tourist seasons and during morning and evening rush hour. Remember – people live here, meaning people go to work each and every day! 

There’s tons of rental car agencies with pickups directly at the airport. Do note that parking can be somewhat of an issue in Honolulu, so you’ll wanna make sure your hotel has a spot/lot for you.

→ I like to search via this site in order to compare rental companies to see who has the best price. Feeling a bit extra? Splurge on a convertible or an open-air jeep – this is Hawaii afterall! Treat yo-self! 

Public Transportation on Oahu:

The Bus: Thankfully, Oahu has an excellent bus system, aptly named “ The Bus ”! Couldn’t be easier than that, right? Although it mostly services Honolulu (so yes, Waikiki’s included), the bus system has lines extending out to almost every major town on the island. HOWEVER, it’ll take ridiculously longer to get from place to place using The Bus vs. your own rental car. 

And just to note, some bus stops only see buses once an hour on Sundays, holidays, and in less traveled areas. With that being said, if you don’t wanna rely on the bus (and possibly wait around for an hour), just rent a car.

• One way fares are $2.75, while a 1-day pass will put you back $5.50. 

Waikiki Trolley: Hands up if you like an easy hop-on, hop-off bus! If you’re looking for a super easy way to see oh so much of the city, the Waikiki Trolley might just be perfect for you. The Trolley can also take you to other spots like Pearl Harbor, Diamond Head, and Ala Moana. Some bus lines can get crowded though, so you may have to wait for the next bus (wasting precious vacation time).

Ride Shares on Oahu: Yes, Uber and Lyft have made their way to Honolulu! If you’re not renting a car, I recommend using Uber or Lyft to get you from the airport to your hotel. In addition, do note that Uber/Lyfts are typically not available in every part of the island, only the more touristy areas. Plan to use it for short trips around Honolulu, but don’t rely on it for longer rides.

When to Visit Oahu: Crowds and Weather

It’s honestly never a bad time to plan an Oahu itinerary — the island has a year-round tropical climate afterall! Meaning, the weather’s pretty much almost perfect all the time. Temps range from 80°F during the coldest months, while the warmest months don’t go past ~88°F or so. See, I told you — pretty darn perfect!

Expect temps to be a tad chillier at night once the sun goes down. Nothing a light jacket can’t fix!

But with all this being said, Oahu does have two distinct seasons: rainy season (winter) and dry season (summer). Don’t worry — both are warm and tropical, but if you HATE the rain (like me), stay away from the rainy season. It can rain any time of year, but it’s way more wet and windy in the winter. But it doesn’t rain every day (or all day, either), so you’ll still get lots of sunny, dry days in winter.

Surprisingly, despite the rain, the highest tourist season is during the winter! Must be because everyone’s looking for a little respite from their actual freezing/snowy winter on the mainland. 

If I had to pick when to visit Oahu, I’d choose the shoulder seasons of mid-April to early June or between September and mid-December. You’ll likely be able to find some deals on airfare and hotel rates, it’ll be way less crowded (although, when is Hawaii not crowded?), and there’s lots of fun local festivals going on! 

A little more in-depth here:

Winter: Rainy Season (November to March) — While winter is considered the rainy season, it thankfully doesn’t rain every single day. Sometimes there’s short spurts of rain (and then sunshine and rainbows), while other days it might rain heavily for an extended amount of time. 

If you don’t want rain, stay away from December through February, as it’s the rainiest time (although the rain typically falls overnight). Mid January through mid-April has the coldest ocean temps, so just be aware if you plan to do some snorkeling.

Summer: Dry Season (April to October) — Summer is dry season, with June through August being the driest (no rain over here!). You’ll find the warmest ocean temps in August through early November, so forget about that wetsuit!

Microclimates: Regardless of the season, you won’t find rain on the entire island. Like San Francisco, Oahu has microclimates, meaning different areas of the island experience different rain patterns and weather. If it’s raining where you’re at, it might make sense to head to the other coast to escape the rain! In general, it’s typically drier on the Leeward Coast (west) and wetter and greener on the Windward Coast (east). 

Where to Stay in Oahu

Oahu is divided into a few main regions, being Honolulu/Waikiki, the North Shore, Leeward Coast, Central Oahu, and Windward Coast. Visitors primarily stay in Waikiki, the Leeward Coast, or the North Shore.

Most of the island’s hotel rooms are found in Waikiki (Honolulu), so naturally, that’s where most visitors book when planning their Oahu itinerary! However, like any big tourist city, there’s both pros and cons of staying here:

Pros of staying in Waikiki:

• There’s lots to do here! Beaches, museums, historic and cultural sites, animal attractions, etc. Lots of shopping and tons of restaurants, too!
• You don’t need a car to explore Waikiki and most of the city is pretty walkable! There’s even shuttles from the airport right to Waikiki.
• Hotel prices are competitive and you may be able to snag a cheap hotel room. Since this is a city with tons of hotels, there’s more to choose from.
• Getting around is easy with the trolley and TheBus.

Cons of staying in Waikiki:

• It’s super crowded, especially on the beach. And yes, this also means there’s lots of traffic while driving in the area as well.
• Parking fees at the resorts in Waikiki are astronomical — some even charge as much as $45 per day to park overnight.
• You might end up staying in the city your whole 5 days in Oahu, instead of feeling like you had a truly relaxing beach vacation.
• Most of the beach resorts in Waikiki charge a daily resort fee, adding to the overall nightly expense. Be sure to look out for these before booking! The Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort is actually one of the only beach resorts that doesn’t charge this pesky fee.

Recommended Hotels in Waikiki

• The Royal Hawaiian : Have you ever seen photos of an iconic pink hotel right on the water in Oahu? That’s this one! It’s even been nicknamed the Pink Palace of the Pacific — and it’s easy to see why! Although we’ve never stayed, we’ve wandered the grounds, snuck a peek at the (gorgeous) pool area, had a few mai tais at the bar, and even indulged in pineapple scones for breakfast one morning. To say we’re dying to stay here is a massive understatement! It’s a little pricey so would make for a perfect birthday or anniversary trip!
• The Laylow, Autograph Collection :   What’s better than a chic hotel with a mid-century vintage Hawaiian vibe?! Spoiler alert — not much. The place is super trendy and I’ve heard the on-site bar/restaurant, The Hideout, is amazing! I’ve been wanting to stay here as soon as it opened. Can you blame me?
• The Modern Honolulu : Another trendy hotel right on the waterfront with a cool retro and modern vibe at the same time. I wanna stay here to check out the sleek rooms!

• Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club : A mid priced island-chic designer boutique that’s actually one of Waikiki’s most popular places to stay. Surfjack really plays up the 1960’s Hawaiian beach culture. Plus, the pool is super fun and Olive & Oliver (located within the hotel) serves up great coffee and is 100% instagrammable!
• Sheraton Waikiki : Your standard chain hotel, taken up a few notches! The Sheraton’s located right on Waikiki Beach, has three restaurants, a spa, and a gorgeous infinity pool (plus another with a waterslide!!!). All in all, a great location and stay.
• Moana Surfrider : Being the oldest hotel in Waikiki (open since 1901!), Moana Surfrider definitely deserves a spot on this list. Perfect location and I’d definitely pay a bit more for an oceanview!

A Note on AirBnbs in Waikiki (and Oahu in General)

We used to LOVE staying in AirBnbs  — up until kinda recently honestly. For quite a few reasons, actually:

• The fees have become astronomical.  A cleaning fee. A host fee. A myriad of other fees. Once you add them all up, that inexpensive Airbnb stay isn’t so cheap anymore. I’ve seen stays double in price due to fees.
• Super confusing cancellation policies.  Just look at the policies — they’re all so wacky and extra confusing! In this day and age, we only book accommodation we can cancel super easily without penalties. I’ve even messaged Airbnb hosts to confirm cancellation polices (which seemed too good to be true) and they’ve said the ones on their page are not correct? Hmm… that sounds super tricky to me and not something I wanna deal with in case I do need to cancel.
• Managed by non-locals.  Most (not all) Oahu Airbnb properties are managed by people on the mainland — not Hawaii itself. This means you’re not supporting the Hawaiian economy, but those with additional properties who don’t even live in Hawaii.

With all this being said, I recommend staying in a hotel instead. This is what we’ve been doing for all our recent trips. By doing so, you’re actually supporting the local economy! Think of all the locals who work in hotels — from the management and front desk staff to the cleaning staff and kitchen staff. These people rely on jobs in Oahu itself.

If you do feel the need to book an AirBnb (I get it, sometimes it’s the better choice for you and your family), PLEASE find a property that is managed by a local on the island itself. Thank you. ?

Other Places to Stay in Oahu

West Side of Oahu (Leeward Coast) : Found on the western coast of Oahu, you’re going to find sunnier and drier weather than other parts of the island. If you’re looking to sunbathe and improve your tan, this is the place for you.

Recommended hotels: Four Seasons Resort at Ko Olina (one of the best luxury resorts in all of Hawaii), Marriott’s Ko Olina Beach Club (poolside bar, anyone?!), and of course we can’t forget the Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina (absolutely amazing for families with kids!). 

North Coast : Oahu’s chilled out surf town, with laid back vibes and pristine beaches. This scenic area is much quieter than bustling Waikiki, so consider a stay here if you’re looking to slow down a little. 

Recommended hotels: There’s not tons of options here, but the Turtle Bay Resort is great for couples looking for a truly relaxing getaway, and I’ve heard the Courtyard by Marriott North Shore is a great pick as well (come for the lagoon-style pool, stay for the modern amenities).

Oahu Packing List

When packing for your trip, you wanna make sure you’ve got all the right clothing and gear for everything you’ve planned for your Oahu itinerary. Think about the activities you’ll be doing, and prepare for those! 

Everyone will need their typical everyday clothing (shorts, t-shirts, tank tops, etc). A few pairs of shoes is a good idea — I recommend bringing a pair of flip flops, sandals, dressy shoes (for a nice dinner out), and sneakers/hiking boots if you’re planning on doing some hiking.

Women’s Packing List: You’ll obviously need all your favorite beach attire, including bathing suits (buy a few new ones!), beach cover-ups, loose cotton dresses, a cute sun hat, casual and dressy sandals, 

Psst: Women — If you’re planning on taking a surf lesson, be sure to pack a bathing suit that stays put and has good support. You don’t wanna fall out if you accidentally wipe out! :p

Men’s Packing List:  Be cool and casual during the day (my husband loves short sleeve button downs for a more polished look), but be sure to check the dress code for any restaurants you really wanna go to. Men might need pants and dress shoes to enter.

Other Miscellaneous Items to Pack for Oahu

• Polarized sunglasses (better for blocking out the harsh UV rays)
• Beach bag and/or backpack : make sure it’s large enough to fit a beach towel or two!
• Hat/s : The sun is strong here! I love taking a wide-brimmed sun hat for the beach and a fun trucker hat when hiking.
• If your Oahu itinerary includes a bunch of snorkeling around the island, you’ll probably save some cash by bringing your own mask and snorkel .
• A waterproof kindle or other e-reader for reading at the beach (I’d be worried a physical book may accidentally get wet!)
• Your hotel may give you towels, but we love traveling with a sand-free beach mat
• Reusable water bottle : better for the environment and a must for hiking!
• Reef Safe sunscreen (always use when in the water, as other sunscreen is harmful to marine life): We love ThinkSport (make sure the bottles are less than 3.4 ounces if you’re bringing them in your carryon)! Don’t forget about SLP lip balm as well!
• Aloe Vera Gel : always have some handy in case you get a sunburn; aloe will give the burn some much-needed relief
• Dramamine : This will help with motion sickness if you’re planning to do a snorkeling or boat tour (the waves can get rough!).
• Underwater camera : All my underwater photography tips and gear here . I’d check out an underwater phone case , too.
• Portable battery charger : Charge your phone on the go and never run out of a charge
• Noise-cancelling headphones : Great for both the plane and the beach! I’m obsessed with my AirPods and Noah loves his Bose Quiet Comforts .
• Tote bag : Plastic bags are banned in Oahu, so bring your own for shopping! I love this collapsible reusable tote bag (hardly takes up any room in your suitcase).

Other Important Things to Keep in Mind

• Never take shells or sand home: You may be surprised, but it’s actually against state law to take sand from any beach in Hawaii. Leave the sand at the beach for everyone to enjoy. If you don’t abide by the laws, you could see a hefty fine of upwards of $100,000. Yup — they’re serious over here. And while you’re at it, don’t bring home any shells or rocks either.
• Respect wildlife: Like in Maui, PLEASE keep wildlife WILD. NEVER attempt to chase/touch/pet/feed ANY wild animal. This can potentially do harm to these beloved creatures, and possibly cause unnecessary distress. And remember, always wear reef-safe sunscreen .

• Respect the local culture: It comes as no surprise that the majority of Hawaii’s diverse population lives on Oahu. The locals take great pride in their deep culture, values, and traditions of the Native Hawaiian people. A real fusion of East and West cultures. Respect it. 
• Forgo the straw and plastic bag: Hawaii is leading the way in becoming more self-sustaining. Do your part and don’t make it any harder for them. This means use less throw-away plastics (better for sea life anyways), don’t waste water, and recycle the best you can. The islands will love you for it!

Oahu vs. Honolulu vs. Waikiki

Just to make sure we’re all on the same page, as mentioned before, Honolulu and Waikiki are located on Oahu. And Waikiki is actually part of Honolulu! To make things super simple (because I understand it can get confusing if you haven’t been to the island before):

• Honolulu is a city on Oahu
• Waikiki is a beachfront neighborhood within the city of Honolulu

Kinda like how San Francisco is a city in California and The Mission is a neighborhood in San Francisco! 🙂 Or for all you East Coasters out there, how like NYC is a city in New York and the Upper East Side is a neighborhood in NYC. 🙂

5 Day Oahu Itinerary

Day 1: pearl harbor and downtown honolulu.

Morning: Pay Your Respects at Pearl Harbor

You simply cannot visit Honolulu without paying your respects at Pearl Harbor. It’s easily Hawaii’s top tourist attraction, with millions of people visiting each year! Make sure to add Pearl Harbor to your Oahu itinerary — it’ll be somber yet beautiful for sure.

What’s the significance of Pearl Harbor you ask? I’m sure you heard of it, but don’t worry — we’re not all history majors (I probably should have paid better attention in US History class). 

Pearl Harbor was the scene of the devastating Japanese air attack on December 7, 1941, which catapulted the US into World War II. More than 2,400 Americans died on this day, while another 1,000 were wounded. I highly recommend you take the time to visit this historical Hawaiian naval base; granted, your visit will undoubtedly be a heavy one. Visit the landmarks and memorials, and be sure to soak in a bit of history.

Most people probably don’t realize this, but there’s actually four Historic Sites of Pearl Harbor open for visitors. It’s way more than just the memorial above the sunken ship of the USS Arizona.

• USS Arizona Memorial
• USS Bowfin submarine
• Battleship Missouri Memorial
• USS Oklahoma Memorial and Pacific Aviation Museum

However, if you don’t have 6 hours or so, you’ll wanna prioritize the USS Arizona Memorial (the most popular memorial at Pearl Harbor).

Look below the water’s surface and you’ll be able to see the rusty USS Arizona — yes, the actual ship from the 40s is still at the bottom of the harbor. You may even see droplets of oil leaking out of the ship — we saw swirls of oil and honestly couldn’t believe it. There’s also a room in the back dedicated to those who lost their lives on the USS Arizona, with names engraved.

Wanna make sure you don’t miss out on any important history? Sign up for a narrated audio tour of Pearl Harbor here ! Or, if you want to combine Pearl Harbor with a tour around the island, this Oahu and Pearl Harbor Sightseeing Tour may be just perfect for you.

A few important tips:

• Go early. The earlier the better. Pearl Harbor gets especially crowded on weekends and during prime tourist season. 
• Dress with respect. Remember, this is in fact a memorial. Leave the skimpy skirts and tops at home. Don’t even think about wearing a bikini here. You don’t have to dress formal per say, just be tasteful. You’re not going to the beach.
• Leave your things in the car/hotel. When visiting Pearl Harbor, you’ll need to go through security, and you cannot bring any bags with you.

Afternoon: Downtown Honolulu

Next up, spend some time in and around downtown Honolulu! This is where you’ll find all those skyscrapers and the lavish Iolani Palace. Downtown Honolulu is Oahu’s bustling political and business hub, but don’t fret → there’s actually lots to see! My top recommendations (all easily walkable):

• Arvo Cafe for Brunch/Lunch : Ohhh, we love this cute little plant-filled coffee shop! Don’t miss the loaded avocado toast, halloumi burger, a lavender latte, and some fresh squeezed OJ! Make sure to go here first thing after Pearl Harbor since they close at 2pm. 
• Walk Around Kakaako and Look for Street Art : There’s a whole bunch of murals in this hip little area, with many claiming Kakaako to be Honolulu’s trendiest district. The murals get refreshed during the Pow Wow Street Art Festival every February, so you never know what you’ll find! We loved wandering around finding all the colors and taking fun photos!

• Iolani Palace and King Kamehameha Statue : Opulent, grand, and spectacularly unique. Iolani Palace is the former home of the 19th century monarch, with a museum and optional tours. Learn all about the life of the King and Hawaiian history in general. A must-do on this Oahu itinerary for history lovers! Don’t miss the King Kamehameha Statue (featured in Hawaii 5-0!) right across the street.
• Aloha Tower and Marketplace : Head up to the 10th floor observation deck (for free!) for perfect views of Honolulu Harbor and the Ko’olau Mountain Range. The building actually used to be a lighthouse . You can have your first acai or shave ice here at HItalian (highly recommended).
• Washington Place : More history here (built in 1847), and home to Hawaii’s rulers, past and present. Starting with Queen Lili’uokalani, and now the official residence of the state’s governor. Free tours are offered, but even just a look outside at the colonial mansion is worth a few minutes!
• Foster Botanical Garden : Who doesn’t love a botanical garden? It’s small, but a great respite from the busy city! Relax and enjoy the sounds of nature, and check out the Cannonball Tree and rainbow eucalyptus (a must if you’re not visiting the Road to Hana on Maui )!

Other things to do in Downtown Honolulu: 

• The Friends of Falls of Clyde (Maritime Museum)
• The Cathedral of St. Andrew (Episcopal Church with stained glass windows)
• Point Panic (great ocean views)
• Kuan Yin Temple (Buddhist temple with beautiful gardens)
• Eternal Flame Memorial (dedication to the people of Hawaii that have served in the US Armed Forces)

Night: Waikiki Sunset Cruise

It’s your first day of this Oahu itinerary — don’t miss your first Hawaiian sunset! Psst: they’re absolutely remarkable. And seeing the sunset from the water with the gentle rocking of the boat is oh so relaxing!

Unless you’ve got a friend with a boat (ha!), you’ll need to book yourself on a tour. I highly recommend this Sunset Cocktail Boat Cruise (who doesn’t like hanging out on a 53-foot catamaran?!).

Savor freshly prepared “pupus” (appetizers) like avocado poke and taro rolls with lilikoi butter (yummm) and sip on tropical Hawaiian cocktails, all while admiring Hawaii’s beautiful coastline. Book sunset cruise here .

Grab dinner afterwards in Waikiki. Some of our favorite spots:

• Marukame Udon (always a long line but well worth the wait for these Japanese noodles)
• Roy’s (for a bomb ass special occasion dinner – get the lilikoi cheesecake, always)
• Dukes Waikiki (come for the fish tacos, stay for the hula pie, and sit in the sand)
• Chef Chai (for some top-notch Asian Fusion)
• Yard House (a high-end sports bar with lots of beers on tap)
• Paia Fish Market Waikiki (the BEST fish tacos on the island)

Day 2: Diamond Head Hike and Waikiki Beach

Morning: Diamond Head Crater Hike

Does climbing up an extinct Hawaiian volcanic crater sound like your kinda morning? You’re in luck, because we’re headed off to Diamond Head, the world’s most famous crater. Honestly, even if you’re more of a “lay-on-the-beach-sip-mai-tai’s” kinda girl (or guy!), get your butt up and do it anyways. :p

You’ll thank me once you reach the summit — all your huffing and puffing will be rewarded with panoramic 360-degree views of Waikiki Beach and all of Honolulu. The views are downright STUNNING (think emerald green mountains against sparkling aquamarine water), making for the perfect early morning adventure before hitting the beach. 

Although the hike is only about 1.6 miles round trip, you’ll find lots of windy, rocky, uneven and narrow trails. Oh, and expect some steep stairs as well. Makes sense – you’re climbing up 500 feet to the top of a crater! 

If you’d feel more confident with a guide, don’t fret! You can easily join a Diamond Head Crater Morning Adventure Hike . You’ll even learn about Hawaiian history, volcanic formation, and bird and plant species from your guide. The tour is super highly rated and you’ll be done before lunch time! Read reviews and book guided hike here .

Plan for about 2-3 hours, depending on how much time you want at the top and how skilled of a hiker you are. Definitely start early — you’ll avoid the lines and crowds on the stairs (it gets busy and the stairs are narrow).

Make sure to take lots of water (and a hat and sunscreen)– the sun is strong here! While it’s a super popular hike and honestly not all that difficult (even with all the stairs), it can be taxing in the heat. I didn’t hydrate nearly enough and honestly almost passed out!

→ Note the entrance fee is $5 per car or $1 per individual walk-in — all paid in cash.

Afternoon: Beach and Explore Waikiki

After that early morning hike, fuel up with some acai at da Cove Health Bar and Cafe. If you need something with a bit more substance (or just wanna try all the things), head to Rainbow Drive-In for a Hawaiian plate lunch!

Finally — beach time! Waikiki Beach is one of the most famous beaches in all of Hawaii, and for good reason! 2 miles of soft, white sand, alongside the highrises and backed by palms, make up one of the busiest and most cosmopolitan areas on Oahu. There’s parasailing, boogie boarding, surfing, canoeing, and lots of people watching over here! Or find some sand and just relax with a good book.

Once you’ve had enough of the beach, go for some mai tais at The Royal Hawaiian (our favorite spot!), grab some banana ice cream in a papaya boat at Banan , get a shave ice or two at Waiola Shave Ice , and pose for a pic with the Duke Kahanamoku statue (he’s only “the father of modern surfing”, so, no big deal). :p

But whatever you do, don’t miss indulging in a few malasadas at Leonard’s Bakery . From passionfruit to custard, I always suggest you order a plain glazed, the macadamia nut (my personal fave), a chocolate filled, and one flavor of the day. We’ve been to Oahu more times than I can count, and still dream about the Portuguese donuts once we’re back home in San Francisco . We’ve even toyed with the idea of shipping a box to our house!

Night: Tantalus Lookout for Sunset 

Head up to Tantalus Lookout at Puu Ualakaa State Park for sunset! It’s quite the panoramic show and only about 15 minutes from Waikiki. You can even see striking views of Diamond Head and the Waikiki skyline. Come a bit early (the parking lot isn’t huge), set up a blanket on the grassy lawn, and watch the sky change colors. 

Note that you’ll need to drive up a windy mountain road to get here, so be especially careful on your way back down in the dark. Take it slow!

Day 3: Hanauma Bay Snorkeling + East Oahu

Morning: Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve Snorkeling

First up on day 3 of this Oahu itinerary – snorkeling in the clear, cool waters of Hanauma Bay! Throw on your plastic fins and snorkel, and get ready to see the underwater world teeming with sea life!

Imagine snorkeling in an aquarium – that’s what it feels like over at Hanauma Bay! This pristine and protected marine ecosystem (former volcanic crater) is full of beautiful coral reefs, loads of tropical fish (like the ridiculously colorful parrotfish!), and other sea life. You may even spot a harmless reef shark and/or a green sea turtle if you’re lucky! And it’s great for both beginning and avid snorkelers. 

Before snorkeling in Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, you’ll need to watch a short video in the marine education system. You’ll learn about the marine life, preservation of the park, and rules and safety while snorkeling.

Just remember — you are NOT allowed to touch or walk on any coral (it’s actually a law here in Hawaii!) and NEVER mistreat the marine animals (no chasing/petting/feeding/etc). Also – be sure to have reef safe sunscreen , as other sunscreens are not allowed in the bay.

Some logistics to help plan your visit:

• Hanauma Bay is closed every Monday and Tuesday to help repair the ecosystem and conserve the reef. This is great because it means the fish and bay have 2 days of undisturbed rest!
• Open 8am to 4pm, with no entry after 2pm (night snorkeling was discontinued years ago). Get here early to ensure a parking spot.
• No walk-ins allowed; you must arrive by vehicle
• Entrance fee is $12 per person (with locals and kids free), plus a $3 parking fee
• There is NO rental equipment at the bay, so be sure to bring your own snorkel gear. We like renting from Snorkel Bob’s in Honolulu.

Afternoon: East Oahu

You’ve got quite a few options after snorkeling, all on the east side of Oahu within easy driving distance of Hanauma Bay.

A few ideas:

• If you’re feeling famished and need a quick pick-me-up, head on over to Teddy’s Bigger Burgers (a colorful spot for some creative burgers), Fatboy’s Hawaii Kai (for some poke bowls and plate lunches) and/or Island Brew Coffeehouse (for some high quality Hawaiian coffee and light bites with a view)!
• China Walls and Spitting Cave : Such beautiful views of the Pacific here, with lots of ledges and cliffs making for interesting photography. You may even catch some cliff-jumpers here! Be extra careful during high tide. Worth a quick stop. A great spot for sunset if you’re not interested in a luau.
• Lanai Lookout : Another popular lookout point with panoramic views of the ocean, cliffs, and even neighboring islands! A great place to sit and just watch the waves. Add this to your Oahu itinerary for great views with little effort (my kinda experience :p).

• Koko Crater Railway Trailhead: Put on your hiking boots, it’s hiking time! This steep hike is actually an abandoned railroad track on Koko Crater, with over 1,000 uneven steps (straight up the hill — a great leg workout). There’s little shade, so make sure you slather on the sunscreen, wear a hat, and bring plenty of water. Although I’ve never done this hike myself, I’ve heard that the views from the top are more than worth it! Plan 2-3 hours or so for the hike up and back down.
• Halona Blowhole Lookout and Beach Cove : Wanna watch water shoot 30 feet into the air from a lava tube? Head over to the Halona Blowhole Lookout. It’s absolutely insane. And once you’re done at the blowhole, walk down a short trail to Halona Beach Cove. Don’t miss the secret cave, swimming in the scenic cove, and watching the little crabs on the rocks. 

• Makapu’u Beach and Makapu’u Tide Pools: Another long stretch of white sand, perfect for surfers in the winter (with a strong rip curl) and calm waters for wading around in the summer. Head north a bit to check out the tide pools formed from black lava at the Makapu’u Tide Pools.
• Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail and Lookout: A pretty easy trail to the historic red-roofed lighthouse (built in 1909), being only 2 miles roundtrip. On a clear day, you may even see Moloka’i and Lana’i! And if you’re visiting in winter (November – April), be on the lookout for migrating humpback whales from the trail!

Night: Luau and Dinner

You can’t come all the way to Hawaii and not include a luau on your Oahu itinerary! Luau’s are grand celebrations of food, music, and culture, so what better way to end the night. There’s a whole slew of options to choose from, but no matter which you pick, you’ll be dining on a kalua pig cooked in an imu (oven in the earth), haupia (coconut pudding), and poi (Hawaiian taro). And of course throwing back a few too many cocktails. 😉

Some luaus to choose from: 

• Paradise Cove Luau
• Ka Moana Luau (only luau on the East Side of Oahu)
• Germaine’s Luau
• Diamond Head Luau (farm to table!)
• Polynesian Cultural Center (a favorite of many!)

Day 4: Pillbox Hike and Lanikai Beach

Morning: Pillbox Hike and Lanikai Beach

Pillbox Hike: Wake up early again, we’re going hiking! While not one of the longest trails, the Pillbox hike may be one of the prettiest and historic on this Oahu itinerary. During your trek you’ll stumble upon two colorful and graffiti-covered military bunkers, and witness a stunning panoramic view of Lanikai Beach. And when I say stunning, I mean stunning .

We honestly couldn’t believe just how spectacular the views were — tons of swaying palm trees, crystal clear turquoise water, of course the two mokes (those pointed rocks you see in the photos) jutting out of the water. Once you reach the pillbox, you’ll be rewarded with 360° degree views of all of Lanikai Beach and West Oahu.

Be prepared for some climbing, and I hope your sense of direction is good – we attempted this hike and for some reason couldn’t even figure out which trail we should be on! Although it apparently only takes about 15-20 minutes to reach the first pillbox, prepare for a steep and slippery incline. There’s even ropes at various spots to help with the climbing.

Lanikai Beach: Once you’re done with your sweaty morning hike, off to the beach it is! If you looked up the definition of a white-sand beach, the first thing that would pop up is a photo of Lanikai! Bleached sand, translucent waters, picturesque palm trees – it’s one of those places perfectly crafted for postcards. And you get to visit!

Change into your swimsuit and spend the afternoon dozing on the coast, or taming your adventurous side with kayaking and scuba diving. Just remember there’s very little shade, so don’t forget your sunscreen!

Late Afternoon:  Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden and Byodo-In Temple

Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden: How does 400 acres of tropical plants sound? Honestly – it’s one of the best places in Oahu to see tons of flora and fauna. It’s huge, gorgeous, and not too crowded! And it’s FREE! Don’t miss the lake, the lush lookout points, and unique plant species everywhere (there’s even guava and cacao)! You may even feel like you’re on the Na Pali coastline in Kauai for a hot second! Kinda makes you feel like you’re walking through Jurassic Park.

The Byodo-In Temple: Missing Japan ? Head to this replica of an elaborate and historic Japanese Buddhist temple. There’s manicured gardens, tranquil meditation sites, and even a lovely koi pond. Look out for the black swans and peacocks! And it’s only $5 per person for entry.

Night: Haleiwa Joe’s Haiku Gardens for Dinner

You gotta include at least one special dinner on your Oahu itinerary. And not only does the restaurant overlook the beautiful Haiku Gardens and pond, but the food is phenomenal, too!

My recommendation: Go on the earlier side, put your name down, and walk around the gardens while you wait for your table. You’ll feel like you’re eating dinner in Jurassic Park!

Definitely get the prime rib if it isn’t sold out (it’s popular for a reason!).

Psst — there’s actually another location of Haleiwa Joe’s in the actual town of Haleiwa, but I recommend the Kaneohe location at Haiku Gardens instead (the scenery is much more lush and memorable).

Day 5: North Shore + Dole Plantation

We’re getting out of Honolulu again — plan to spend the entire day on the North Shore ! There’s honestly so much to do! Do note the North Shore is about 45 minutes from Honolulu, so you’ll wanna get an early start if you wanna see and do lots on this list!

The things to do/see/eat on the North Shore are kinda broken up into two main areas: Haleiwa and the Pupukea area. They’re only about 15 minutes apart, so don’t feel bad if you’re zigzagging a bit.

Read Next: All My Favorites on Oahu’s North Shore (plus everything you need to know)

Here’s my top recommendations:

Dole Plantation Extra Add-On : On your way to Haleiwa from Honolulu, you’ll pass by the Dole Plantation. Make a short stop here to look around the gardens, walk through the maze, and of course have an early-morning pineapple dole whip — beware, it’s pretty sweet! There’s also tons of pineapple treats for purchase (for now or to save for later!). Plan to get here when they open (10am, closed on Wednesdays) so you have the rest of the day to explore the North Shore.

Breakfast : If you’re skipping the Dole Plantation, have some breakfast at either Kono’s Northshore Haleiwa or The Sunrise Shack. Both great options! Make a quick stop at the North Shore Marketplace if you wanna do a bit of shopping!

Relax at Laniakea Beach: Beach time! And get ready — because we’re off to see the sea turtles! If snorkeling isn’t your thing, you can thankfully still see some of these gentle giants on shore just basking in the sun here at Laniakea Beach on Oahu’s North Shore. 

The Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles have been frequenting these sands for decades, so do your part and respect them and their land. It’s illegal to chase, injure, hunt, touch, hold, or harass them in any way. Admire them from afar (use your zoom lens to take photos).

Back to Haleiwa for lunch and a snack : Honestly, even if you’re not terribly hungry, you gotta check out at least 1-2 of these spots. One of my favorite things on the north shore is all the amazing food options, so make some room and indulge a bit!

• Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck: I betcha know what you’re coming here for, haha. This parking lot establishment is known to be crazy, chaotic, and downright busy, and this seems to deter a few people. BUT the lines will still be long and some even wait for up to an hour and a half. And yes — the shrimp is that good, although we’ve heard it’s not as good as it used to be back in the day.
• Haleiwa Beach House : Another casual seafood restaurant, but expect some more elevated dishes like surf ‘n’ turf, pupu platters, and colorful cocktails! And plus, it’s located right on the waterfront, making for great lunch views.

• Matsumoto Shave Ice : This place is kinda an institution around here on the North Shore. Yes, it’s a very popular spot and may in fact be wildly crowded, but the shave ice is worth it. I promise x 1000. Always get some ice cream and a snow cap (my favorite).
• Haleiwa Bowls : Grab an acai bowl from this little thatched kiosk. There’s juices, smoothies, and even cold-brew coffee if you need a little kick of caffeine.

Tidepooling and snorkeling at Shark’s Cove: This rocky coastal area is great for exploring, whether you’re tidepooling and/or snorkeling. I recommend bringing some water shoes as the rocks getting in and out of the water can be quite slippery and sharp!

Watch the sunset at Sunset Beach: It’s one of the best beaches on the island for sunset! It’s popular but there’s lots of space for everyone. And if you really wanna take your sunset to the next level, grab some pie at Ted’s Bakery (we love the chocolate haupia pie the most!).

Psst: If you’re an adrenaline junkie, you may wanna consider going skydiving at the Pacific Skydiving Center (we did this for my 30th birthday!) or even shark cage diving (which we did on my 34th birthday!) today. Both start early near Oahu’s North Shore, so you’ll still have some time for other nearby activities.

I hope this helped you plan out your 5 day Oahu itinerary! Get ready to sip some mai tais and sit in the sun! Bring me back a malasada — pretty please! 🙂

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1 Week in Hawaii: The Perfect Oahu Itinerary for Your First Visit

Do you dream of palm trees, turquoise waters perfect for snorkeling, scuba diving, and surfing? Of eating tropical fruits, fresh seafood, and rainbow shave ice? I know I do, which I was I was thrilled to finally visited Hawaii in conjunction with my trip to Fiji and Tonga . Not only was it perfect for breaking up a long, long, long, long, flight but it also made for a really fun travel destination. Considering heading here yourself? Here’s how to spend 1 week in Hawaii and my picks for the ultimate Oahu itinerary for first time visitors.

psst: Looking for a travel credit card with lots of perks (like lounge access) that will also allow you to earn points for travel? This is what I use and recommend. 

Getting to Hawaii

For those who live under a rock, Hawaii is an island. Actually, I’m lying. Hawaii is a state that is made up of a number of islands. You can get here by boat (normally a cruise unless you are a master sailor in which case- can we be friends?), but most people will arrive by plane. In my experience in planning my own trip to Hawaii, the cheapest (and fastest) airport to fly into was Honolulu Airport on Oahu. This is the island that I stayed on and will use for the basis of this 1 week in Hawaii article. While you can island hop, it can be expensive and if you only have one week in Hawaii then you may as well set up a base on one island and explore. There’s more than enough to see and do on Oahu and I’m sharing my favourites in this Oahu itinerary.

1 Week in Hawaii: Getting around Oahu

As is the case with all Hawaiian Islands, the easiest way to get around is to rent a car. It allows you the most freedom and takes away any stress or time limits. That being said, I know that renting a car isn’t always an option, especially for those travelling solo to Hawaii  like I did. Don’t worry though, you won’t be stuck. There are ways to get around both Honolulu and the island.

In terms of Honolulu area, if you want the easy tourist route that hits the popular spots, consider getting tickets for the Waikiki Trolley which is a hop on hop off bus. You can get 1,4, or 7 day passes here.

You can also use the local bus system which is creatively called ‘The Bus’. The Bus is pretty good for getting around Downtown Honolulu, Waikiki, and the nearby areas such as Pearl Harbour or Hanauma Bay. Your best bet is to buy daily passes as it’s the same price for that as it is for 2 trips. Buses can be cramped and busy, but the drivers are friendly and it is cheap.

The same bus service works on the whole island, however, these journeys tend to be pretty long. I originally thought I’d take the bus up to the North Shore for a day trip but that wasn’t really realistic when I timed it out. I could have gone and spent a night somewhere there, but The Bus also isn’t ideal for carting your luggage around either.

If you do want to explore more of the island, your best bet is to book day trips- there are lots of good ones that I’ll share later. Or, you could hire a taxi or private transfer to take you. Taxis and private hires aren’t cheap but, let’s be honest, nothing is in Hawaii.

Pssst. Looking to save money on your vacation? Check out my article on how to explore Hawaii on a budget.

Where to Stay in Waikiki for 1 Week in Hawaii

For my one week in Hawaii, I chose to base myself in Waikiki then relied on day trips and The Bus to get around for site seeing and tours. While I didn’t necessarily love that the Hawaii I experienced was a big city, I also recognized that without renting a car, it really is the best bet.

Honolulu is surprisingly big and it does take a while to get around. Since I’m a beach girl I chose to stay in Waikiki which I actually really liked. Cute shops, cool restaurants and bars, and gorgeous stretches of beach made it the ideal place to stay for a beach vacation. I definitely recommend choosing this part of Oahu as a base for your stay.

Need some recommendations?

If you are on a tight budget or looking to meet people you can try  hostel. Honolulu has a couple and I stayed in one in Waikiki but it wasn’t great. It was pretty dirty, the staff was unfriendly, and it was so loud. So I can’t really recommend it. 

That being said, there are some nice more affordable hotel options. Try the Surfjack Hotel. I stayed here for a couple nights at the end of my trip because I needed some privacy. It was about a 10-15-minute walk to Waikiki Beach and had a cool on-site pool. Rooms were spacious and kind of funky- definitely fit the island vibe. Another favourite is the Royal Hawaiian which you may recognize as the pink hotel on Waikiki Beach. Other popular picks include the Waikiki Beachcomber by Outrigger and the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki.

Or, if you are really looking to splurge then try the Moana Surf Rider hotel . It’s THE hotel to stay at in Waikiki and you can’t beat the location. I walked by a few times and definitely wished I had a bigger budget so I could stay there.

The Best Things to do in Oahu: My Oahu Itinerary Favourites

Considering that Oahu is a pretty small island, it sure has a lot to see and do. Some is free, some is pricey (but worth it) so my biggest word of advice to is do a bit of planning ahead of time and figure out what it is you really want to see and do. A lot of the day trips and tours fill up quickly so your best bet is to book your spot in advance. With that in mind, here are my favourite attractions and things to do in Oahu that you should definitely consider adding to your Oahu itinerary.

Snorkelling at Hanauma Bay, Oahu’s Top Snorkel Site

Oahu has no shortage of snorkeling spots but for those looking for a beautiful, easy spot to get to without having to hire a guide or take a tour, I recommend Hanauma Bay. It’s an easy bus ride from Waikiki and has a beautiful beach with a restaurant and change rooms on site making it perfect for a day trip. Hamauma Bay can get busy and crowded (especially on holidays and weekends) but I still thought it was worth it. While I didn’t see any of the Hawaiian green sea turtles, the snorkeling offered plenty of multi-coloured corals and some bright reef fish plus the beach was gorgeous.

Please note that there is a small fee to enter and I do recommend bringing your own snorkel gear. I absolutely loved it here and came twice during my 1 week in Hawaii. 

Watch the Surfers at Waikiki Beach

Waikiki Beach is the busiest beach in Oahu, but you can’t leave the island without spending a little bit of time here whether it’s for swimming, or watching the sunset. The surfers here riding the waves are a pretty iconic site and, for those interested, you can even take some lessons or just rent a board.  

Friday Night Fireworks in Waikiki

If you have 1 week in Hawaii, then you will likely be in Oahu for the Friday night fireworks in Waikiki. They aren’t particularily special fireworks per say, but I’m a sucker for fireworks any day so seeing these were pretty fun. I watched from the beach, though you need to be pretty selective about where you go because some of the beach hotels block the view. You can also watch from the water if you book a boat tour.

Circle Island Tour of Oahu

If you don’t plan on renting a car and exploring the island on your own, then definitely take a full day circle island tour. There are dozens of operators for this, though some of the stops on this 1-day itinerary differ a little bit. The one I did went to a coffee farm, the Dole Plantation for pineapples (where I had my first ever Dole whip- so good!),Waimea Bay, Haleiwa Town, the famous North Shore food trucks, and even a cocktail stop. We had a TON of fun and I loved being able to get out of the city and see the sites with a local.

Want to book a circle island tour? Try this one.

Spot the Wild Dolphins of Hawaii

Oahu is known for it’s spinner dolphins which are beautiful to see out in the water. Prior to 2021, you could actually swim with them. However, while some people and businesses allowed you to swim with the dolphins in Hawaii ethically and responsibly, some didn’t. Sadly, it got to the point where laws had to be put into place to stay away from the dolphins for their safety and protection. While you can no longer swim with the dolphins in Hawaii, you can still go out and search for them in an ethical and responsible manner. This tour offers dolphin viewing as well as snorkel stops and, depending on the time of year, maybe some whale sightings.  

Whale Watching in Hawaii (Winter Only)

Love whales? Me too. Hawaii is one of the best places to see humpback whales, especially on the North Shore. However, it is a seasonal activity that can only be done in the winter months. Whale season in Hawaii runs from November until May with the best viewings from January until March. While you can’t swim with the humpback whales in Hawaii ( you can in Tonga  and French Polynesia ) the whale watching tours are a great way to see them up close.

Book your whale watching tour in Hawaii here.

Shopping in Waikiki

Shopping may not seem like one of the top things to do in Hawaii but I happened to be there a couple months before Christmas so I had a lot of fun checking out the shops in Waikiki and finding fun and unique things for friends and family back home- especially the women I was shopping for. From spa and bath products to unique beachy jewelry and more, there was lots to choose from. I might have even picked up a couple of fun things for myself (no regrets). 

Take a Hike

Oahu has tons of hiking trails, a couple of which are just outside Waikiki and can easily be reached by public transit. Perhaps the most popular hike is Diamond Head which offers a scenic overlook over Waikiki and the ocean. Just make sure you check opening and closing times ahead of time, we tried to go for sunset only to discover it was closed.

Another really popular hike in Oahu is Koko Head Crater. This hike is made up of over 1200 ‘stairs’ formed by old train tracks. You should probably be a comfortable hiker to tackle this one as it can be a bit precarious at points but the viewpoint at the top makes it look like it’s worth it.

Perhaps the most iconic hike in Oahu is the Stairway to Heaven or the Haiku stairs. If you use Instagram no doubt you’ve seen several travel ‘influencers’ posting shots from this hike. Well, guess what? This hike is actually illegal and as of 2019 comes with a hefty fine of nearly $1000. The stairs are now considered to be too dangerous and there have been several deaths here. So, do yourself a favour, and skip this one during your 1 week in Hawaii. 

Step into the Scenes of Your Favourite Movies

Oahu is a popular filming locations for several well-known movies including the latest Jumagi, the Jurassic Park series, Forgetting Sarah Marshall, Pearl Harbour, Blue Crush, and many more. If you are a big movie fan in general, or love one of these specific movies then you may be interested in heading to the scenes where they were filmed.

Perhaps the most popular filming location in Hawaii is Kualoa Ranch which was the filming location for one of my favourites: Jurassic Park (love me some dinosaurs). A visit here does have to booked as part of a tour, but it’s a fun way to spend a day.

Another fun place to stop if you are renting a car is Turtle Bay Resort. You don’t have to stay here to visit (though it is beautiful and if you have the budget you may want to), but it’s worth popping into the bar to have a drink and check out the beach views. This is where Forgetting Sarah Marshall was filmed so you’ll probably recognize a lot of the scenery.

Learn about the History of Pearl Harbor

You can’t come to Hawaii without knowing a bit of history behind Pearl Harbor; home of the infamous bombing that kickstarted WWII. Pearl Harbor takes nearly an hour to get to by bus from Waikiki (so time your visit accordingly) and is comprised of several museums. Admission to the USS Arizona Memorial is free, though tickets are limited so I do recommend taking advantage of the book 1 day in advance option online. Booking opens at 7am for next day tours and costs $1.50USD to reserve your spot. These tickets are limited so get them while they last. You can get them here.

You can also visit with a guide to see other parts of Pearl Harbor as well. Take a look at this tour.

Embrace the Island Life

Hawaii may be part of the USA, but it has its own culture and plenty of cool things to see, do, learn about, and try.

One of the best ways to enjoy your 1 week in Hawaii is to make sure you try plenty of local food. If you love seafood and fresh fruit, you’ll be in heaven in Hawaii. Two of my Hawaiian favourites are poke bowls and rainbow shave ice, but there’s way more to try. Even if you don’t consider yourself to be experimental with food, do yourself a favour and pick one local spot for a meal rather than joining the massive queue at The Cheesecake Factory. 

Another fun way to get your Aloha on is to join a Luau. Now, you need to know going in that these cater to tourists. It’s not a local thing that you happen to stumble upon. Oh, and they tend to come with hefty pricetags. But, you’ll get a pretty lei, a delicious meal, and an impressive show that makes for a fun night out. Book your Luau tickets here. 

You can also learn more about the Hawaiian culture. The Polynesian Cultural Centre is a popular place to visit. There are six Polynesian villages to explore. You can also stay the evening and take part in their Luau. 

Uncover the Royal History of Hawaii

Did you know that Hawaii had a royal family? Before it became part of the USA, Hawaii was a kingdom that was ruled by it’s own monarchs. In fact, Hawaii is the only place in the USA that has  a real royal palace.

The Iolani Palace was finished in 1882 and served as the home for the last king of Hawaii. Funnily enough, this palace actually received electricity before the White House. Today, travellers to Hawaii can visit this Iolani Palace and take a tour to discovery the history of Hawaii and it’s royal heritage.

For those interested in Hawaii’s history and culture, another must during your 1 week in Hawaii is the Polynesian Cultural Centre. It’s one of the top-rated places to visit in Oahu and and offers some great experiences. There are multiple ticket options depending on the type of visit you wish to have. You can learn more here .

Must Pack Items for 1 Week in Hawaii

Packing for a tropical vacation isn’t too tricky, but there are definitely a few must-have items that I strongly recommend you bring with you. One, because you’ll want them and two, because you’ll save yourself some money by bringing rather than having to buy while you are there. Here are my suggestions on what to pack for Hawaii.

• Dry bag: Perfect for keeping your clothing/towel/electronics dry for any beach days or time spent out on a boat. Get some here.
• A quick dry towel. Some resorts/hotels will give you beach towels but they tend to either be small or thick and slow to dry. I’m a big fan of this brand of quick dry towel for travel- plus they are big and perfect to dry off or use as a beach blanket. Take a look at these ones.
• Reef-safe sunscreen. Sunscreen is a must and a reef safe brand is the way to go. Especially since Hawaii is banning any non-reef-safe sunscreens. There are a few brands but I’m a big supporter of Stream 2 Sea products  which have been tried and tested.
• I suggest bringing your own mask and snorkel because there are so many places around the island that you may want your own rather than relying on rental. Check out this set.
• Good swimming gear! If you are a woman, check my list of tried and tested size-inclusive brands that I love for travel and the ocean here.

Final Tips for Your Oahu Itinerary

Oahu is a lot of fun and a great destination to choose for your one week in Hawaii. Whether you are looking for adventure, culture, or just a laid back vacation, you’ll find what you are looking for on this tropical island. Just remember that Hawaii is a dream destination for many, so for the best deals and to avoid disappointment, your best bet is to book things (hotels, tours, etc.) in advance to avoid disappointment!

Ready to Book Your Trip?

Don’t forget travel insurance!

Please do not travel without travel insurance! I’ve had to use it multiple times throughout my travels and it has saved me thousands of dollars. You can learn more about travel insurance  here . If you are looking for a provider I love and recommend  SafetyWing . For Canadian readers, take a look at  SoNomad.

Book your accommodation

I love and recommend  booking.com  for accommodation. They have a range of hostels, guesthouses, hotels, and resorts. Plus, the platform has a great loyalty program that means the more you book, the more you can save. 

Book your tours

My go-to tour provider that I love to recommend is  GetYourGuide . They have options all over the world and partner with local companies for everything from day trips to food experiences and even airport transfers. 

Get connected

If you want to have data while travelling for online maps or any other needs, an esim is one of the easiest solutions. I’m a big fan of Airalo and have used their sim cards around the world from Brazil to Uzbekistan, Greece to the USA. It’s really easy- you download the app, pick what country you want an esim for, and after you purchase it follow the installation instructions. You can use promo code HANNAH3326 to save $3USD on your next esim purchase. 

Not sure what to pack?

I have destination-specific guides for some countries but you can also check my  travel essentials  and  camera gear  if you are looking for some ideas. 

Looking for a travel buddy?

Check out my group trips!

Am a vet from World War 2, 91 years old, is this two big of a trip for us to make. If you have some good idears, for a trip like this for 10 days. [email protected] let me know.

Hey Stanley, this itinerary might be a bit busy/adventurous. But you may enjoy aspects of it. Hawaii is beautiful and has lots to offer

[…] get it. My first trip to Hawaii I spent about 1 week in Oahu and struggled to pick a place to stay. Did I want to stay downtown? By the beach? Away from Honolulu […]

We’re about 70 and like short and not too strenuous hikes, are there places for that?

I only know of the bigger/trickier hikes. Diamond Head might be an option but the path is quite uneven so depends on your comfort level. Maybe do a bit of research into it. If you ask locally, there might be other suggestions too!

Can you please tell me where those Aloha/Mahalo benches are located?

They were up at the north shore in Haleiwa 🙂

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How to Plan a Trip to Oahu

Oahu, affectionately referred to as the ‘Heart of Hawaii’, is a vibrant blend of natural beauty, adventure, and rich cultural heritage. If three words were to capture the essence of Oahu, they would be: enchanting, dynamic, and historic. This island paradise is a tropical tapestry of lush rainforests, ethereal waterfalls, and pristine beaches that are a surfer’s dream. Yet, Oahu’s charm extends far beyond its natural allure. The island pulses with a dynamic urban scene, a buzzing nightlife, and a mosaic of cuisines that will make foodies swoon. Delve a bit deeper, and Oahu reveals its historical side, with sites chronicling everything from ancient Hawaiian history to Pearl Harbor . Brimming with wonder and excitement, Oahu invites you to immerse yourself in its unique island magic.

Geography & Climate

Embracing a tropical climate, Oahu treats you to warm weather throughout the year, with average temperatures hovering between 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. While the winter months from November to April can bring some rain and slightly cooler weather, it’s typically followed by stunning rainbows—a sweet treat from Mother Nature herself! So, whether you’re lazing on the glistening beaches or exploring the verdant hiking trails, Oahu’s geography and climate is a slice of paradise waiting to be discovered!

Culture & People

Oahu’s culture is a lively meander through the island’s rich history, its warm-hearted people, and their unwavering love for the land and each other. Here, you’ll find a blend of both ancient and modern Hawaii. You’ll hear the strumming of the ukulele, see graceful hula dancers, and witness the cultural importance of surfing to the locals. The ‘Aloha Spirit’ isn’t just a saying, it’s a way of life here, one that respects and honors the land (or ‘aina) and one another. Get ready to indulge in the island’s diverse food scene, deeply rooted in the fusion of different cultures that call Oahu home. Don your lei, get ready for a luau, and let’s dive into the vibrant culture that awaits you!

How to Plan Your Oahu Trip

Booking flight tickets: Best deals and recommended airlines

To make the most of your Oahu adventure, planning your flight is key. With plenty of airlines flying to this tropical paradise, you have numerous options to consider. Major airlines such as Hawaiian Airlines, American Airlines, Delta, and United offer regular flights to Oahu.

Hawaiian Airlines, being the largest airline in Hawaii, offers the most comprehensive schedule, so you’re likely to find a flight that suits your timing perfectly. For budget-conscious travelers, airlines like Southwest and JetBlue often have impressive deals. The best time to book a flight to Oahu is typically during the shoulder seasons — spring (April to mid-June) and fall (September to mid-December). Airfare during these periods can be significantly cheaper than during the peak tourist seasons of summer and winter.

Before booking, always compare prices with online travel agencies. They provide a great overview of different airlines and prices, allowing you to snag the best deal. But remember, once you find a good deal, check the airline’s direct website. Sometimes, they offer even better rates or additional perks for booking directly. Signing up for fare alerts can also help you get the best deals. Websites let you set up price alerts for your desired destination and will notify you when fares drop.

Preparing Your Budget

When planning your trip to Oahu, a key factor you’ll need to consider is your budget. Oahu, like any other tourist destination, can be as expensive or as budget-friendly as you make it, but having a clear idea of the potential costs can help you plan better.

The average daily cost for a trip to Oahu is around $60 per person for meals and $40 for local transportation. Consider additional costs such as accommodation, which can range from $60 to $1000 per night depending on your preference for luxury or budget hotels.

For activities, budget around $60 to $350 per person per day if you plan to explore attractions.

Don’t forget to account for incidental costs like shopping, tips and additional expenses that may crop up. It’s always a good idea to add a buffer of around 10-15% to your budget to manage any unexpected costs. By doing some research and setting a realistic budget, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable Oahu vacation.

Learn More: How Much does a Trip to Oahu Cost?

Best Time to Visit 

Weather and Climate Considerations

he weather in Oahu is nothing short of delightful, embodying the island’s tropical charm. With a year-round warm climate, Oahu is a year-round destination. There are two main seasons: the “Kau” (summer) from May to October and the “Hooilo” (winter) from November to April. Even during winter, the weather is relatively mild and pleasantly warm. Rainfall is a bit higher during the winter months and mostly occurs overnight. You’ll also want to keep in mind that different parts of the island can have different weather patterns, with the Windward (east) side receiving more rainfall than the Leeward (west) side. Be prepared for the occasional downpour and remember, it’s all part of the tropical experience!

Peak Tourist Seasons vs Off-peak

When it comes to visiting Oahu, understanding the difference between peak tourist seasons and off-peak times can significantly influence your travel experience. Peak tourist seasons in Oahu are during the summer months June to August) and winter holidays (mid-December to early January), when the island’s warm weather provides a great getaway from colder climates. However, these times are often crowded, and prices for flights and accommodations tend to be higher.

On the other hand, the off-peak seasons—spring (April to early June) and fall (September to mid-December)—offer a more relaxed atmosphere, with fewer tourists and often lower prices. While the weather can be slightly more unpredictable, with occasional rain showers, these periods still offer plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures. The choice ultimately depends on your preferences for crowd size, cost, and weather.

Learn More: Travel to Hawaii in the Off-Season

Accommodations in Oahu

Where to Stay

Choosing the right area to stay in Oahu can truly make or break your Hawaiian adventure! If you’re a beach bum at heart or a night owl who loves the hustle and bustle, Waikiki, with its world-famous beach and buzzing nightlife, is your go-to spot. On the other hand, if you’re seeking serenity away from the crowds, North Shore offers a peaceful trip back in time with its laid-back charm and world-class surf spots. For history buffs, staying in Pearl Harbor provides easy access to the USS Arizona Memorial and the Pearl Harbor National Monument. Be sure to choose a location that matches your vacation vibe!

Hotel Recommendations for Different Budgets

Whether you’re a budget-conscious traveler or someone ready to splurge for an unforgettable tropical getaway, Oahu has a wide range of accommodations to suit every pocket.

Budget-Friendly

• Polynesian Hostel Beach Club: This vibrant hostel offers the most affordable and comfortable stay, perfect for backpackers and solo travelers.
• Ewa Hotel Waikiki : A budget hotel, located a stone’s throw away from Waikiki Beach.
• Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach : Located in the heart of Waikiki, this resort offers comfortable rooms and stunning views without breaking the bank.
• Hyatt Place Waikiki Beach : Enjoy a spacious room and amenities like a pool and 24/7 dining, all for a reasonable price.
• The Royal Hawaiian : Known as the “Pink Palace of the Pacific,” this iconic luxury resort promises an unforgettable stay.
• Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina : This five-star resort offers world-class service, stunning rooms, and access to some of Oahu’s best golf courses and fine dining.

Eating and Dining in Oahu

When in Oahu, prepare for a culinary adventure! The island offers a multitude of dining options that cater to all palates and budgets. For the foodies out there, you’re in for a treat! The island’s culinary scene is a melting pot of cultures, combining Hawaiian, Asian, and American influences.

If you’re looking for an upscale dining experience, head to Waikiki which houses some of the finest restaurants on the island. Here, you can indulge in exquisitely prepared dishes while enjoying breathtaking views of the ocean. For a more casual and rugged taste of local fare, visit the numerous food trucks scattered around the island, especially on the North Shore. They serve everything from fresh seafood, grilled meats to a variety of fusion cuisine.

Don’t forget to visit a luau for a traditional Hawaiian feast served alongside a vibrant performance of Polynesian music and hula dancing. Eating in Oahu is not just about filling your stomach, it’s about immersing yourself in the island’s rich cultural heritage and traditions. So, dig in and bon appétit!

Local Delicacies to Try

Tasting the local cuisine of a region is like a journey into the heart of its culture, and Oahu is no different. Here are a few local delicacies you should not miss:

• Poke: A traditional Hawaiian dish made with raw, diced, and marinated fish, usually Ahi Tuna. It’s a beloved local favorite.
• Spam Musubi: This sushi-style treat is a popular snack and consists of a slice of grilled Spam on top of a block of rice, wrapped together with nori.
• Shave Ice: A classic Hawaiian dessert, it’s a mountain of finely shaved ice drenched in sweet fruit syrups. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream at the bottom for an extra special treat.
• Loco Moco: A hearty local dish that consists of rice topped with a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and brown gravy.
• Malasada: These Portuguese doughnuts, brought to the islands by immigrants, are fluffy, sugar-coated, and often filled with tropical custards.

Give these dishes a go to truly experience the flavors of Oahu!

Must-Visit Attractions

A trip to Oahu is incomplete without a visit to its iconic Pearl Harbor, where you can pay homage to the lives lost during the tragic event that propelled the U.S. into World War II. Be sure to also visit the historic Iolani Palace , the only royal palace in the U.S., to get a glimpse of Hawaii’s royal past.

Next on your list should be Waikiki Beach , the world-famous hotspot known for its golden sand, crystal-clear waters, and lush palm trees. Waikiki is not just a beach but a hub of activities, shopping, dining, and nightlife.

Nature enthusiasts must not miss out on hiking the Diamond Head State Monument , a dormant volcano offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Honolulu. Lastly, step into the surfer’s paradise at North Shore , famous for its massive waves and being the home to international surfing competitions. Whether you’re a surfer or not, the breathtaking beauty of North Shore is a sight to behold!

Outdoor Activities to Try

Time to get your adventure hat on! Unleash your inner thrill-seeker with Oahu’s diverse range of outdoor activities. Ready to ride the waves? Trade your flip-flops for a surfboard and get ready to surf the North Shore , world-renowned for its magnificent swells. If you’re more of a landlubber, lace up your hiking boots and conquer the Diamond Head trail. It’s a bit of a climb, but the panoramic views at the summit are worth every step.

For underwater enthusiasts, snorkeling in the crystal clear waters of Hanauma Bay offers an unforgettable glimpse into Hawaii’s vibrant marine life. Don’t forget to say Aloha to the charming Hawaiian green sea turtles ! Whatever your adventure level, Oahu has an outdoor activity that will leave you with fun-filled memories and incredible stories to tell.

How Long Should You Stay

Wave goodbye to those quick weekend getaways and ride the waves of a real vacation! On Oahu, there’s such a wealth of sun-soaked beaches, tropical adventures, and vibrant culture, that a week would be your absolute minimum to start soaking it all up. For the full island experience – and trust us, you don’t want to miss a thing – we recommend planning a stay of at least 10 to 14 days. This gives you ample time to explore the bustling city life of Honolulu, embark on breathtaking hikes, bask in the sun on the North Shore, and still have plenty of time for those precious moments of doing absolutely nothing but enjoying the island vibes!

What to Pack Based on the Time of Year

When planning your packing list for Oahu, it’s essential to take into account the time of year.

• Spring and Summer (March through August): During these months, Oahu enjoys warm weather and lots of sunshine. Pack light, breathable clothing, swimwear, a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, and a pair of sunglasses. Don’t forget your flip-flops for the beach and comfortable shoes for exploring and hiking.
• Fall and Winter (September through February): While Oahu’s winters are mild, the evenings can get a bit cooler and there can be some rain. In addition to your summer clothing, pack a light sweater or jacket, a rain jacket, and waterproof shoes. If you’re planning on hiking, consider moisture-wicking clothes and a pair of sturdy hiking boots.

Regardless of when you visit, a reusable water bottle and a backpack for day trips are must-haves. Also, remember to leave space in your suitcase for all the wonderful souvenirs you’ll find! Happy packing!

Getting Around Oahu

Public Transportation

Public transportation in Oahu is managed by TheBus, an extensive system that reaches most parts of the island. It’s an affordable and eco-friendly choice but may require some strategizing to match bus schedules with your itinerary.

Car, Bike, and Scooter Rentals

Renting a car offers greater flexibility and convenience, allowing you to explore the island at your own pace. However, it’s worth noting that parking can sometimes be challenging, especially in busy areas like Waikiki, and the cost of gas and rental fees can add up. Ultimately, the choice depends on your personal preferences, budget, and comfort with driving in a new environment.

If you’re looking for a breezy, fun way to explore Oahu, renting a bike or scooter is your ticket to adventure! With the wind in your hair and the island’s beauty surrounding you, it’s an unforgettable experience. For shorter distances, bikes are perfect. They offer a slow-paced ride allowing you to immerse fully in the island’s scenic beauty. Scooters, on the other hand, are great for longer distances. They give you the freedom to zip around different sights without spending too much time or energy. Remember to always wear a helmet and follow local traffic laws. Now, get ready to pedal (or scoot) your way to an epic Oahu adventure!

Taking a Tour

How about immersing yourself in the vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes of Oahu with a guided tour? Yep, that’s right! Tours are a fantastic way to see the island’s key highlights without the stress of planning everything yourself. Experience the cinematic landscapes of the Kualoa Ranch , feel the solemn history of Pearl Harbor , or perhaps, if you’re feeling adventurous, tour the rugged terrain of Diamond Head by hiking to its peak. Not only will you have a fun-filled day, but you’ll also learn about the island’s rich history and unique ecosystem from knowledgeable local guides. Remember, there’s an Oahu tour for every kind of traveler!

Exploring Oahu on Foot

The island is simply teeming with scenic walking trails, cozy neighborhood sidewalks, and bustling city streets that invite you to explore at your own pace. From the tranquil paths of Waimea Valley to the vibrant thrum of Honolulu’s downtown, there’s no shortage of sights to see. Feel the grainy sand between your toes as you stroll along the iconic Waikiki Beach, or wander through the aromatic stalls of Chinatown ‘s open-air markets. Step back into history with in the serene beauty of the Byodo-In Temple . On foot, you’ll experience the pulse of the island, the warmth of its people, and the beating heart of its Aloha spirit. Remember to pack comfortable shoes, stay hydrated, and be ready to surrender to the island’s magic.

Using Ride-sharing Apps

Surf’s up, but not sure how to get to the beach. No worries. Oahu is well-served by various ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft, making it super easy to zip around the island without breaking a sweat. It’s as simple as downloading the app, entering your location and your destination, and voila! You’re off to soak up the sun, explore the alluring landscapes, or head downtown for some shopping and shave ice. Remember, peak times may lead to surge pricing, so plan your rides accordingly.

General Travel Tips

• Check Your Travel Documents: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date. Don’t forget to check if you need any visas to enter Hawaii.
• Pack Smart: Traveling light can make your journey smoother. Use packing cubes to organize your clothes, carry travel-size toiletries, and remember the TSA’s 3-1-1 rule for liquids in your carry-on.
• Stay Hydrated: Oahu can get quite hot, especially during summer days. Ensure you carry bottled water with you at all times to stay hydrated. Many areas offer refill stations, so think about the environment and bring a reusable bottle with you. Plus, it’s a small step towards sustainable travel.
• Take Lots of Photos But Also Live in the Moment: Document your memories but remember to also take time to soak in the beauty around you Take the Road Less Traveled. Venture off the beaten path and explore the lesser-known treasures of Oahu for a truly unique experience. Oahu is full of natural wonders that deserve your undivided attention; don’t just experience them through your camera lens!
• Embrace the Aloha Spirit: Remember, you’re in the land of Aloha! Be respectful to the locals, their culture, and their environment. Treat everyone you meet with kindness and respect- it’s the Hawaiian way!

The Islands are Waiting to Share Their Secrets!

You are just a hula dance away! Take some time to simply breathe in the salt air, listen to the gentle rustle of palm trees, and let the island’s tranquil rhythms seep into your soul. As the sun sets on your Oahu adventure, don’t forget to commemorate your trip with a traditional lei, a symbol of the Aloha spirit that you’ve embraced throughout your stay. Mahalo for joining us on this journey, and we hope your trip is filled with Aloha spirit, unforgettable sunsets, and the warmest of memories. Happy traveling!

A writer whose words flow where the mountains meet the sea.

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Planning a Trip to Hawaii: DOs and DON’Ts (2024)

This page contains affiliate links. Please read our disclosure for more info.

Planning a trip to Hawaii is something many people dream of. With its stunning beaches, dramatic volcanic landscapes, and lush green hills, it’s one of the most beautiful places we’ve visited but also the most expensive.

While we do think the islands are worth the high price, to make the most of your stay, it’s essential to plan in advance.

In this post, we share our top Hawaii travel tips to show you how to plan a trip to Hawaii that’s perfect for you.

We’ll cover how many days you need in Hawaii, which island to visit, where to stay, the top activities, what you must book in advance, and everything else you need to know.

Video: Hawaii Travel Tips

How long to stay in hawaii, best island to visit in hawaii, best time to visit hawaii, planning a trip to hawaii: before you arrive, when you are in hawaii, what to pack for hawaii, is hawaii worth it, more hawaii posts, maui travel update 2024.

Since November 1, 2023, West Maui has been open for travel again (except most of Lahaina, which will remain closed indefinitely) after the devastating wildfire in Lahaina in August 2023.

Visitors to Maui are now encouraged, but please be mindful and respectful of the tragedy that everyone on the island has been impacted by.

Travel to other islands in Hawaii is unaffected.

If you’d like to donate money to support Maui’s recovery, consider the Hawaii Community Foundation’s Maui Strong Fund .

For more information about the ongoing situation, see the Hawaii Tourism Authority website .

Back to Contents

The average stay in Hawaii is about 7 days. I think this is a good minimum time for a trip, although 10-14 days is better if you want to visit multiple islands.

Some visitors do visit Hawaii for 4-5 days, but it’s a long way from the US mainland (or anywhere!) for a short trip, and you’ll spend the first few days adjusting to the time zone change. That said, if it’s all you can manage, it’s better than no time in Hawaii!

If you have a week for your Hawaii vacation, I recommend choosing just one island to visit. See below to find the best Hawaiian island for you.

If you have 10 days in Hawaii, I recommend starting with 3 days in Oahu and then visiting Maui or Kauai for a week.

Choosing the best island to visit is one of the most challenging parts of planning a trip to Hawaii. They are all diverse with lots to offer, so it just depends what you are looking for.

Most visitors to Hawaii visit one of these four islands:

Oahu is by far the most visited and developed Hawaiian island. It’s home to the large city of Honolulu, which includes the famous and very crowded Waikiki Beach (where most visitor accommodation is located).

Oahu offers the most choice of shopping, dining, and nightlife, so if you want to combine city and beach life, this is the best island for you.

It’s also by far the easiest place to manage without renting a car (although I still recommend it). If you stay in Waikiki, you can walk to the beach and many shops, restaurants, and activities.

You can also take tours, Ubers, or the Trolley Bus to nearby attractions including the Pearl Harbour memorial.

Oahu’s North Shore offers a much more relaxed vibe with beautiful beaches and huge waves for surfing in the winter.

Oahu is easy to fit into Hawaii vacations as Honolulu International Airport offers the most flights from the mainland US and international destinations.

Our favourite activities in Oahu are:

• Taking a helicopter ride around the island for stunning views. We recommend the one hour doors off tour with Rainbow Helicopters from Honolulu.
• Snorkelling at Hanauma Bay (be sure to book).
• Relaxing on the Windward Coast beaches especially Waimānalo and Kailua.

See our 7 Day Oahu itinerary for many more tips.

Where to stay in Oahu: Turtle Bay Resort on the North Shore is our favourite place we’ve stayed in all of Hawaii! It is seriously dreamy with incredible ocean views, isolated beaches (with turtles!), stylish rooms, and plenty to do. It feels a world away from Waikiki.

Maui is the second most visited island and is a popular honeymoon destination.

It has gorgeous beaches, world-class whale watching, and the Road to Hana drive where you can see waterfalls, bamboo forest, and black sand beaches.

You can also watch the sun rise above a volcanic crater and visit wineries and lavender farms in Upcountry.

There’s a wide range of resorts, dining, shopping, and activities as well as natural attractions.

Our favourite activities in Maui are:

• Staying overnight in Hana (we love Hana Kai Condos ) to explore popular sights like Waianapanapa without the crowds.
• Whale watching from Lahaina. We saw an incredible amount of humpbacks on our small group boat trip with Makai Adventures (up and running in a new location).
• Relaxing on the beaches of West Maui (with turtle sightings!).

See our Maui itinerary for more tips.

Where to stay in Maui: Kahana Reef has affordable, oceanfront condos on the west coast. We saw whales, turtles, and incredible sunsets from our lanai.

The Big Island (officially called Hawaii) is the youngest Hawaiian island, so it’s not as green as the other islands and has more lava landscapes.

If you want to see an active volcano, this is the island to visit.

It’s the largest island with diverse landscapes from white sand beaches to snow-capped volcanoes.

Our favourite activities on the Big Island are:

• Night snorkel with manta rays. We got incredibly close to these magnificent and huge creatures on our manta trip with Sea Quest .
• Snorkelling at Kealakekua Bay and Two Step .
• Kilauea Iki Trail  – Hiking into a volcanic caldera in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

See our guide to the best things to do on the Big Island for more tips.

Where to Stay on the Big Island: You’ll want to divide your time between the west and east on this large island. Our favourite area was Volcano, where we adored this peaceful cabin in the rainforest . It’s very different from the rest of Hawaii.

Known as The Garden Isle, Kauai is the most lush and green of the islands.

Kauai has become more popular, but it isn’t as developed as Maui or Oahu.

The jagged green cliffs of the stunning Napali Coast are the big draw, but there are also lovely beaches, waterfalls, hiking trails, and multi-coloured canyons.

Our favourite activities in Kauai are:

• Admiring Kauai from above – Our Kauai doors off helicopter ride was spectacular.
• Sailing the Napali Coast – The massive sea cliffs are stunning and we saw whales, dolphins and turtles on the way.
• Seeing turtles and seals on Poipu Beach .

See our post on the best things to do on Kauai for many more.

Where to stay in Kauai: We loved our condo at Kiahuna Plantation on a beautiful beach in Poipu.

Less Visited Hawaiian Islands

If you are looking to get off the beaten track, you could consider visiting one of these smaller, much less visited islands (we haven’t made it to either yet but hope to next time):

• Molokai – Known as The Friendly Isle, on Molokai you’ll find a slow pace of life and more native Hawaiians, but less choice of accommodation and activities. It’s also home to the leper colony of Kalaupapa, which I became fascinated with after reading a couple of these Hawaii books .
• Lana’i – For many years Lana’i was a pineapple plantation and it’s now home to a few luxury resorts like the stunning Four Seasons Lana’i . If you want to enjoy the secluded beaches without the high price tag, the ferry from Lahaina on Maui only takes an hour, so you could visit on a day trip.

Which Side of the Island?

The character of each island also depends on which part you visit.

All the islands have a rainy side where the scenery is lush and green and a dry side where you’ll usually get more sun.

They are both worth visiting, which is why we split our island stays between two or three locations.

Where We Visited in Hawaii

We had 3.5 weeks on our first Hawaiian vacation (in January/February) and divided our time between Kauai and Maui, with one night in Honolulu before our onward flight.

There’s so much to do on each island that we’re glad we didn’t try to add in an extra island.

On our second 3 week Hawaii trip (in October), we spent a week on Oahu (but could have stayed longer) and two weeks on the Big Island.

We love all four of the major Hawaii islands, but our personal favourite is Kauai for the rugged green mountains and more laidback vibe.

There’s no bad time to visit Hawaii as it’s warm year-round, with daytime temperatures rarely dropping below 75ºF (24ºC), even in winter. Each season has its pros and cons.

To See Humpback Whales—Visit in Winter

We were astounded by how many whales we saw in Maui in February. January to March are the best months for whale watching, but you might see a few from November to May.

Winter weather in Hawaii is cooler and rainier than the rest of the year, but we still had mostly sunny days. The ocean is warm enough to swim year-round.

Winter is also the best time for serious surfers, with huge swells on the north shores (especially Oahu).

Christmas and New Year are some of the busiest times on the islands, so avoid them if you are on a budget (and book well in advance).

To Save Money—Visit in the Off-Season

In the spring (April and May) and autumn (September to mid-November), the islands are less crowded (relatively), prices are lower, and the weather is generally good. It can be very rainy on Kauai in April, though. 

For Snorkelling—Visit in Summer

The summer, from June to September, is the best time for snorkelling in Hawaii. The ocean is clearer, calmer, and warmer.

The shoulder months can be good, too—we found snorkelling better in October than in February. This does vary by island.

• Save up – Hawaii is expensive and you’ll enjoy it more if you aren’t worrying about every penny. On our first trip, we spent $267 per person per day (travelling as a couple), including everything except flights from the mainland US. You could spend less by travelling in the off-season, choosing non-beachfront accommodation, and skipping pricey tours. You could also spend a lot more by staying in luxury resorts and eating out for every meal.

• Book your accommodation far in advance – Especially if you are travelling in the high season, want an ocean view, or are travelling to places like Hana or Upcountry on Maui where accommodation is limited. You can search for resorts and hotels on Booking and vacation rentals on Vrbo .
• Consider a condo rather than a resort – For families, stays of a week or more, and for those on a budget, renting a condo with a kitchen is a great way to save money. There are many to choose from and some have resort facilities like pools and beachfront locations. We mostly stay in condos and Kiahuna Plantation on Poipu Beach in Kauai is one of our favourites. Vrbo is a great way to find condos.
• Split your stay – If you want the classic Hawaiian resort experience but can’t afford it for your whole trip, divide your time between a condo and a resort. We did this in Oahu—staying in a condo in Waikiki for 4 nights while we explored the south, then relaxing at gorgeous Turtle Bay Resort on the North Shore for the last 3 nights.

• Camp if you are on a tight budget – It’s not for everyone, but if you don’t mind roughing it, camping is the cheapest way to experience Hawaii. There are some beautiful campsites at beaches and state parks, although you usually need to get permits in advance. See this guide to camping in Hawaii for more tips.
• Search on Kiwi or Skyscanner for the best flight deals – You need to get on a plane to reach Hawaii. The cheapest rates will be from Los Angeles or other West Coast USA cities. Southwest now flies to Hawaii at low rates. You can also get affordable flights from Canada and Japan to Honolulu.
• Fly in and out of different islands – Maximise your time on the islands by flying into one island (such as Kauai) and out of another (such as Maui). I was surprised by how many affordable direct flights there are from the US mainland to places other than Honolulu.
• Rent a car – It’s the best way to see Hawaii and often there’s no other way to reach parts of the islands. At busy times rental cars can run out, so book far in advance. We use Booking.com Car Rentals to find the best deal and just book the cheapest economy car.
• Travel between islands by plane – There are no ferries between islands (except from Maui to Lana’i) so you’ll need to hop on an interisland flight. Most are operated by Hawaiian Airlines and are affordable and short (20 to 50 minutes).
• Consider splitting your time between two or three locations on each island – If you want to do a lot of exploring, this will help avoid long drives to attractions. We’ve done this on all four main islands and it worked out well.

• Book Haleakala sunrise in advance – If you want to see Maui’s most popular sunrise, you must book up to 60 days in advance . If you miss out, try again two days before when more tickets are released.
• Make reservations for some state parks – Non-Hawaii residents need to book in advance for certain parks and pay an entrance and parking fee. These include Haena State Park in Kauai, Waianapanapa State Park on the Road to Hana in Maui, ‘Iao Valley in Maui, and Diamond Head in Oahu. Time slots are released 30 days in advance. Book as soon as possible as they do sell out.
• Pack a sweater – While most of the time you’ll only need summer clothes, it can get chilly on morning boat trips or if you go to higher elevations (like Upcountry in Maui or Waimea Canyon on Kauai) especially in the winter. Sunrise at Haleakala, Maui and sunset at Mauna Kea on the Big Island are freezing and you’ll appreciate as many layers as possible. See the end of this post for more tips on what to pack for Hawaii. 
• Learn a few Hawaiian words – Even if it’s just Aloha (hello and goodbye but also love and compassion) and Mahalo (thank you). I picked up vocabulary by reading the astounding novel Shark Dialogues by Kiana Davenport (which I highly recommend every visitor reads).
• Book restaurants in advance – Upscale restaurants do fill up, so make reservations for anywhere you definitely want to eat (including at resorts). A few weeks in advance should be fine but places like Duke’s on Waikiki Beach book up months ahead. People tend to eat early in Hawaii (around 6pm) so it’s easier to get later reservations.
• Bring cash for tipping – While you can add a tip to your credit card in restaurants, it’s important to have cash for tour guides, valets, and resort staff. If you’re not American, familiarise yourself with tipping etiquette. We tipped 20% in restaurants and sit down bars, $10-20 per person for tours (including for helicopter pilots), $5 for valet attendants (when the car was returned), and around $2-3 a day for hotel housekeeping.
• Plan to visit more than one island per week – You’ll spend too much of your precious Hawaii vacation time travelling and there’s so much to do on each island. While interisland flight times are short, airport security queues can be long (especially out of Honolulu) or flights delayed.
• Forget hidden fees – The listed price for hotels and resorts is rarely what you’ll actually pay. You’ll have to add tax and often a resort fee, cleaning fee (for condos), and parking charge. Check the final total price when comparing accommodation options.
• Visit during holidays – Try to avoid the busiest times of year, especially Christmas and New Year when crowds and prices soar. Thanksgiving week is another busy period. Avoid special events like Iron Man on the Big Island in October. If you must visit then, book far in advance.
• Stay on the beach (maybe) – If you are on a tight budget, you’ll save by staying a short walk or drive from the beach. That said, we often splurge on beachfront accommodation and love it.

• Read novels set in Hawaii – Learn more about Hawaii’s fascinating culture and turbulent history by reading one of these books about Hawaii while you relax on the beach.
• Schedule your most important activities early – Weather can change and cancel activities like boat trips and helicopter rides, so make sure you’ll have time to reschedule.
• Book Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve on Oahu two days in advance – If you want to snorkel at this popular beach, you must make a reservation here at exactly 7am Hawaii Standard Time two days before your visit. Slots sell out in minutes. Tickets are $25. It’s closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

• Use reef-safe sunscreen – Hawaii has banned the sale of sunscreen that uses coral-harming chemicals (oxybenzone and octinoxate). You need a product that uses zinc oxide instead, like this Raw Elements sunscreen . Honestly, it’s a pain to apply, but it’s surprisingly water resistant, and it’s worth it to protect the reefs. Longs Drugs and ABC Stores are good places to pick up all your beach supplies on the islands.

• Wear a rashguard – Even better than sunscreen is to protect your skin by wearing a rashguard in the water, especially when snorkelling.

• Sign up to the Snorkel Report on Maui – You’ll get an email every morning with tips on the best beaches to visit that day. They also rent inexpensive snorkelling and beach gear.
• Check the Hawaii Beach Safety website – To find out which beaches are safe for swimming or best for surfing.
• Go whale watching – It was one of our favourite experiences in Hawaii. We chose a small boat trip with Makai Adventures from Lahaina in Maui and loved it so much we went twice. You can see whales on most of the islands— search for whale watching trips in Hawaii here .
• Hike – All the islands have beautiful trails from easy coastal walks to challenging multi-day treks. It’s a great free way to enjoy the beauty of the islands.

• Rent a Tommy Bahama beach chair and umbrella – Our condos came with these, but you can rent them on the islands inexpensively. They have backpack straps for easy carrying and make beach hopping much more comfortable.
• Bring or rent snorkel gear – If you have space in your luggage, bring your own snorkel and mask. If not, rent it for the length of your stay from a service like Snorkel Bob’s (as we did on the Big Island). I appreciated being able to take a look at the reef whenever we went to the beach.
• Visit a farmer’s market – The fresh produce is usually cheaper and better quality than the supermarkets and there are lots of tasty treats and foodie souvenirs to enjoy.
• Cool off with shave ice – This delicious icy treat is so much better than we expected. Add a scoop of macadamia ice cream on the bottom for maximum tastiness. Our favourites are Waikomo Shave Ice on Kauai and Original Big Island Shave Ice Co on the Big Island.

• Enjoy a Mai Tai on the beach – Touristy yes, but it’s a classic Hawaii experience and these tasty rum cocktails come in cool Tiki glasses.
• Try Li Hing Mui – This dried plum is sweet, salty, and sour. It’s very popular in Hawaii (originating from China), and you can find them whole for snacking (a bit much for me) or as a flavour for many treats. It’s my new favourite shave ice flavour (especially combined with lilikoi/passionfruit and pineapple).
• Drive the Road to Hana on Maui – Most people do this in one day, but we loved spending a few nights in Hana to explore without the crowds.

• Eat all the banana bread – Especially in the Hana area, homemade banana bread sold at farm stalls is so good.
• Indulge in chocolate-covered macadamia nuts – We were addicted to the ones by Moana Loa.
• Let local drivers pass you – They know the winding roads better than you and drive at a faster pace, so pull over and let them pass.
• See Kauai from above – Our doors-off helicopter trip on Kauai was mind-blowing and it’s the best island for a scenic flight. Our Oahu helicopter tour was also amazing. Search for scenic helicopter flights on other Hawaiian islands here .

• Eat in restaurants for every meal – Restaurants are expensive and by self-catering in our condo we saved a huge amount of money. Even if you don’t have a kitchen, you can pick up a pre-made picnic lunch from a supermarket and enjoy it on the beach. Some of our tastiest meals were from food trucks which are far cheaper than restaurants. Hana in Maui and Hanalei in Kauai had the best selection of trucks.
• Underestimate the ocean – Conditions can be dangerous and change quickly and drownings do happen. If you’re not sure it’s safe, don’t swim.
• Turn your back on the ocean – Huge waves can come out of nowhere when you are swimming or even walking along the shore.
• Fight a rip current –  If you get caught in a current, keep calm, float, and wave for help. Go with the current and conserve your energy.
• Touch sea turtles or monk seals – You are likely to come across wildlife on the beaches, but it’s illegal to get too close or touch them.
• Feed fish or other wild animals.

• Trespass – Please respect private property. While all beaches are open to the public, they don’t all have public access routes.
• Litter – Don’t leave anything behind on beaches or hiking trails.
• Park illegally – Respect “no parking” signs and don’t stop on the side of the road. This has become a real problem on the Road to Hana in Maui in particular.
• Steal any rocks or sand .
• Touch or step on coral – Be mindful of where your fins are when snorkelling.
• Leave valuables in your car – And keep any luggage hidden out of sight in the trunk. Rent a mid-size car rather than a compact one (we found these didn’t have an enclosed trunk).
• Laugh at the hula – It’s not just a dance for tourists, but a serious part of local culture.
• Refuse a lei (flower garland) – It’s a symbol of affection and Aloha so wear it with gratitude and don’t take it off in front of the person who gave it to you.
• Wear shoes into someone’s house .
• Rush – Don’t feel the pressure to do everything. Make sure you allow time just to relax by the pool or on the beach. Slow down and enjoy these beautiful islands.

The weather is warm year-round in Hawaii so pack lightweight summer clothes—shorts, t-shirts, dresses, a couple of bathing suits, and a beach cover-up. 

I’m a big fan of PrAna for summer dresses and swimwear. 

There’s no need to pack formal clothes as Hawaii is very casual. 

I do recommend packing one set of warmer clothes for visiting places at higher elevations or boat trips in winter. A pair of jeans or leggings plus a lightweight fleece or sweater should be fine. 

If you are planning on sunrise at Haleakala in Maui or stargazing at Mauna Kea on the Big Island, it can be freezing, so add more layers and perhaps a packable down jacket if you have one (I like the Patagonia Nano Puff Hoody). 

We spend most of our time in Hawaii wearing hiking sandals—they are perfect for beaches and hikes. Many beaches have rough access trails so you’ll appreciate something more than flip-flops.

We both love Teva sandals which are very comfortable for hiking and most models are waterproof so are great for kayaking. Simon likes the Teva Fi Lite sandals and I have the Teva Verra sandals .

I also had a pair of ballet flats for a dressier option for the evenings. My current favourites are the super comfy Allbirds Tree Breezers —see my Allbirds flats review for details. 

For running, I wear the light, breathable Allbirds Tree Dashers .  

Other Useful Items

• Reef-safe sunscreen – Avoid sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate which have been banned in Hawaii. 
• Reusable shopping bags – Plastic bags are banned on the islands.
• Spices – If you are self-catering, you’ll save money by bringing a small amount of spices with you. We bought some at the bulk-buy section of a supermarket on the mainland.
• Water bottle – Avoid creating plastic waste by packing a reusable water bottle. We like the Vapur water bottle as it’s light and packs flat when empty. 
• Packable daypack – These backpacks fit in your luggage on the trip over and are useful for hikes and exploring. 
• Packing cubes – We swear by these as they keep your clothes organised and easy to find in your luggage. 
• Quick-dry beach towel – These lightweight towels dry faster than traditional towels and sand shakes off them more easily. 
• Compact binoculars – There’s so much wildlife to see in Hawaii including whales, dolphins, seals, turtles, and birds. The tiny Olympus 8 x 21 RCII waterproof binoculars were ideal for getting a closer look.

Yes, I think Hawaii is well worth visiting! While it is expensive and can be crowded, there’s something about that stunning scenery and relaxing vibe that entices many of us to visit again and again.

I hope this blog post helps you with how to plan a trip to Hawaii. Let me know if you have any questions and share your Hawaii travel tips in the comments below.

We share more of our Hawaii tips in these posts:

• The Perfect 7 Day Oahu Itinerary
• A Doors Off Oahu Helicopter Tour: Everything You Need to Know
• 25 Best Things to Do in Maui
• The Ultimate Maui Itinerary: The Best of Maui in 7 to 14 Days
• 17 Stunning Road to Hana Stops & Why You Should Stay in Hana, Maui
• Where to Stay in Kauai: The Best Areas and Hotels
• 17 Unmissable Things to Do in Kauai
• A Doors Off Helicopter Tour on Kauai: Is It Worth it?
• 14 Best Beaches in Kauai
• 23 Unmissable Things to Do on the Big Island
• 9 Best Books About Hawaii to Read Before You Visit

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16 Comments

Your review made no mention of exploring the art museum & palace.

These 2 spots are essential visits in Oahu. Exploring how Hawaiian islands last provincial part of royal hawaiian culture just before annexation to the United States as a territory, and later a state is fascinating. The art museum and also Duke Mansion have extremely rare & valuable originals of some of the most revered artists in varying mediums. Picasso, Monet, Rembrant, Matisse, Van gough, O’keife. Really disappointing it is not even mentioned here. I have visited Hawaiian Island more than 10 + times. They are essential stops.

Reply ↓

Thanks for the suggestions, Susanne. Everyone has different priorities, and for us, with limited time in Honolulu, we preferred to focus on the amazing outdoor attractions.

I do think it’s important to learn about Hawaii’s history and culture so I’ve read a lot of books about it.

This is so helpful and thorough! I have been clicking back and forth to different articles. Thank you for putting your time in to such a great resource.

I’m glad you found it useful! Thanks Jennifer for the kind words!

Hi!! Do you have any recommendations on phone/data plans for internationals?💕

We’re currently in the US and are using T Mobile. Simon got an unlimited data plan for $50 a month and bought the SIM in advance from SIM Corner while we were in New Zealand (they ship from various countries).

That was useful as it meant we had the SIM as soon as we arrived (most airports don’t seem to have places to buy SIMs).

I just went into a T-Mobile shop to buy mine and got the cheapest plan of $15 for 2.5GB data valid for 30 days. Plus $10 for the SIM card. All plans have unlimited domestic talk and text.

If you look in the trucks at Farmers Markets….many of the boxes are from COSTCO. If you plan to self-cater, shop at COSTCO first and then Walmart if the island your visiting has one.

Do you know if the Covid restrictions would prevent people from renting a car and doing their own circle tour. These tours are outrageously expensive for only 15 mins at each location. I could easily just use our rental car and take our time seeing what we want to see. So my question is will the State of Hawaii only allow these pricey tours right now because of Covid? For example, I don’t want to drive to see the Halona Blowhole only to find out we can’t get near it because of certain restrictions.

You are allowed to rent a car (as long as you don’t have to quarantine which you shouldn’t if you get a test before arrival) so there’s no reason not to drive yourself. There is high demand for car rentals in Hawaii at the moment (many rental companies sold off cars last year) so book as far in advance as possible.

Hi! Thank you for this article it was very helpful. For the sunrise mountain in Maui, I saw the reservations is per car. Do you drive all the way up or hike? I will be traveling with some older people (70+), so trying to understand the feasibility? Thank you!

Yes, it is per car. You drive all the way up and don’t have to walk more than a few minutes from the carpark to the viewpoint. There are optional hiking trails around for post-sunrise, but it’s still stunning without any walking.

Thank you for the tips to “Bring reusable shopping bags” and “Schedule your most important activities early”. Very good points to keep in mind.

I love that Hawaii has so many places that offer to rent (folding) beach chairs! I find that option sorely missing from the islands in the Caribbean. In fact, I ended up buying an inexpensive beach chair from Wal-mart when we were in Puerto Rico this past winter.

What about tent camping, is that not a viable alternative to the high priced lodging?

Yes, that’s definitely the cheapest way to experience Hawaii. It’s not our thing, although we saw the campsite at Waianapanapa State Park on Maui and you can’t beat the location!

I’ve lived on Kauai for over 40 years. While I agree with nearly everything you say in this excellent article, there was one glaring error that any Kauai resident could confirm. Although visiting off season is, indeed, (somewhat) cheaper and certainly less crowded, the weather in April on Kauai (and generally March) is far from excellent. Many, many visitors to Kauai have had their vacations ruined by our relentless April rains (in fact, much of the north shore is still closed from catastrophic rains over a year ago, and a couple of years before that it rained for nearly 40 straight days (okay, maybe not, but any local will swear by it…). April is by far the worst possible month to visit Kauai and it does your readers a digs-service to urge them to do so.

Thanks for the information Bill. I will update the post.

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How to spend the ultimate weekend on Oʻahu, Hawaii

Apr 25, 2024 • 7 min read

Make the most of a short visit to O'ahu, Hawaii, with this itinerary © Pgiam / Getty Images

There’s a reason why Oʻahu is nicknamed the Gathering Place – it’s the Hawaiian island that has everything.

Here you'll enjoy buzzy restaurants, golden beaches , luxe resorts, historic sites, walkable neighborhoods, trendy boutiques and hiking trails with breathtaking panoramic views.

Born and raised on the island, Oʻahu is more than just my home. It’s where I surfed my first wave, where I fell in love with hiking, where I always want to come back to after traveling elsewhere. It combines the excitement of city life with the laid-back island vibe of sunny beaches, verdant mountains and mai tais by the pool.

A long weekend may not be enough – but it’s a start. First, here are some quick tips to help you plan:

• When to arrive: Arriving on a Thursday morning is perfect. That way you’ll have a full day to rest and unwind before an extended 3-day weekend.
• How to get from the airport: It's best to rent a car at the airport. You’ll need one to explore the entire island (the  public bus system is great, with stops all over Oʻahu, but it’s faster to get around in a rental car). Rideshare is available, too; the average cost from the airport to Waikiki (about 9 miles) is $30.
• Getting around: The city bus has routes all over the island, with stops at the most popular visitor attractions on Oʻahu. The Waikiki Trolley offers limited routes, the farthest to Sea Life Park, about 15 miles from Waikiki. The  city’s only bikeshare program is available in urban Honolulu . To see all of Oʻahu, though, you’ll need a rental car.
• Where to stay: Of all the islands, Oʻahu has the most diverse range of accommodations, from budget-friendly  Hotel Renew in Waikiki to the luxe  Four Seasons Resort Oʻahu in Ko ʻOlina on the island’s west side. It’s the only island with a  Disney-themed hotel , complete with water slides and character-filled breakfast experiences.
• What to pack: Bring casual beachwear, something warm just in case, shoes you can walk and hike in, something dressy for dinner, swimwear, flip flops (we call them slippers) and reef-safe sunscreen.

Want to spend time on the beach? Here's our guide to the best in Hawaii

Morning: Assuming you’re staying in Waikiki, wake up and head out early. Grab a bullet coffee or acai bowl at Sunrise Shack , a cute North Shore-based cafe started by surfers with a location in the Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort . If you’re looking for a casual breakfast, head to Heavenly Island Lifestyle Waikiki ; this laid-back spot has a variety of brunch dishes, from sweet bread French toast with local honey and fruits to a spicy tomato shakshuka. Morning is the best time to walk along Waikiki Beach and watch surfers nab early waves.

How to spend the day: Waikiki is the birthplace of surfing – and it also happens to be the best place on the island to learn the sport. Book with locally owned Waikīkī Beach Services for a 75-minute lesson in the friendly waves where Native Hawaiian Olympians Duke Kahanamoku and Carissa Moore both grew up surfing. Or jump in an outrigger canoe – an important part of Hawaiʻi’s rich culture – to catch waves. This is the only place on the island where you can experience outrigger canoe surfing.

My go-to, post-surf lunch spot is Rainbow Drive-In on Kapahulu Ave. This local favorite, around for more than 60 years, serves hearty plate lunches and slush floats, which I highly recommend. For something lighter, get an ahi poke (cubed raw fish) bowl from nearby  ʻOno Seafood . Try the boiled peanuts – it’s a local specialty.

Dinner: Sip on handcrafted cocktails at sunset at Hau Tree , the oceanfront restaurant at the revamped Kaimana Beach Hotel. Share a bunch of small plates or splurge on the housemade pasta or fresh fish entrées. If you want to get out of Waikiki, Chinatown – about 4 miles west – boasts some of the island’s best restaurants, including Fête Hawaiʻi , a hip bistro with great cocktails and dishes inspired by French, Italian, Korean and Hawaiʻi flavors. In 2022, chef-owner Robynne Maii was the first female chef from Hawaii to win the prestigious James Beard Award, the state’s first in nearly 20 years. I’m obsessed with the Chaz burger, local-style carbonara and the Rocky Road to Hana ice cream. Reservations are required.

After dark: Oʻahu is the only Hawaiian island with a robust nightlife, and Waikiki is a great spot to find live music. Located in the Outrigger Waikīkī Beach Resort, Blue Note Hawaii is an intimate venue – just 326 seats with a full-service restaurant and bar – that hosts a range of musical and comedy talents, from LeeAnn Rimes to Rob Schneider. Halekūlani’s House Without a Key offers traditional hula and live Hawaiian music until 10pm.

Morning: Get an early start with a 30-mile drive to the North Shore along the Kamehameha Highway (that means heading east toward Kahuku.) The drive is part of the experience. This two-lane highway hugs the coastline, passing through rural towns, past roadside farm stands and stretches of empty beaches. Stop for a Spam musubi (block of rice with a slice of fried Spam on top, wrapped with a strip of nori) and butter mochi at the family-run Kaya’s Store in Hauʻula or a slice of chocolate- haupia (coconut) pie at Ted’s Bakery near Sunset Beach.

How to spend the day: If you’re on Oʻahu during the winter months, you’ll likely witness the spectacle surrounding the seasonal big waves. Beaches are packed with surfers and spectators, eager to catch the winter’s monster surf. During other times of the year, though, this stretch of coastline is quieter, the beaches less crowded. Laniakea Beach is a popular stop to see honu , or Hawaiian green sea turtles, basking on the beach (you have to stay at least 10ft away from them on land and in water). Or grab a snorkel – you can rent one from a surf shop – and hit Shark’s Cove, with natural rocky outcroppings that protect tide pools home to more than 70 fish species (this is a summer activity, as ocean conditions are calm). Feast on garlicky shrimp scampi from Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck or head to the roadside cafe at the family-run Kahuku Farms for a smoothie, slice of farm pizza or acai bowl, the ingredients of which are grown on-site.

Dinner: There’s nothing better than eating outdoors — except eating farm-to-table dishes crafted by James Beard Award-winning local chef Roy Yamaguchi. His restaurant, Roy’s Beach House at the recently updated Turtle Bay Resort , offers stunning ocean views and a menu that includes inventive sushi rolls, seafood and his signature molten chocolate cake. If you’re here on a Wednesday, the hotel’s Paniolo Lūʻau is worth checking out.

Like to walk? Here's our guide to the top hiking routes in Hawaii  

Morning: Catch the sunrise at the top of the Kaʻiwa Ridge Trail, better known as the Lanikai Pillbox Trail. It’s a 1-mile, mostly uphill trek to two concrete pillboxes built in early 1943. I park at Kailua Beach and walk to the trailhead, which is tucked away in a residential neighborhood. There’s no better view of the famous Nā Mokulua (“twin islands”) off Lanikai Beach. Then head to Over Easy , a casual family-run eatery that serves crispy-edged pancakes, Cinnamon Toast Crunch-crusted French Toast and (my favorite) potato ‘n‘ eggs.

How to spend the day: I regularly walk Kailua Beach , which stretches for 2.5 miles with views of Popoiʻa Island (aka Flat Island) and the Mokulua Islands. Enjoy a nice stroll or just sit and watch the action: kiteboarders, canoe paddlers, swimmers, folks walking their dogs. Stop at Kalapawai Market for a quick snack, sandwich or fish taco. This coastal town is very walkable, with cute boutiques, hip coffee shops and trendy restaurants all nearby. Treat yourself to shave ice at Island Snow Hawaiʻi ; the shop (which Hawaiʻi-born President Barack Obama frequents) boasts all-natural syrups in island flavors like lilikoʻi (passion fruit), guava, Kona coffee and dragon fruit. Then wander through the aisles of Bookends , a beloved new and used bookshop, where you can find beach (or airplane) reads for under $5. 

If you must now end your Oʻahu vacation, make the 30-minute drive from Kailua to the airport. If not, explore the rest of this beach town, to see what else Oʻahu has to offer. And trust me, there’s a lot more.

Keep planning your trip to Hawaii:

Figure out the best island for your trip Learn the best times to avoid the crowds Check out our first-timer's guide to  Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park

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How to Plan the Perfect Multi-island Trip to Hawaii

These eight tips will help you travel between Hawaii's islands with ease.

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The Hawaiian archipelago includes more than 100 islands, atolls, and islets. But if you’re planning a visit, don’t worry, as you need not plot a 100-island itinerary. With the majority of the islands uninhabited and inaccessible, you can focus on four of the eight largest islands: Kauai , Oahu , Maui , and the Island of Hawaii (often referred to as the Big Island), with the option to add on a few others.

Here are some tips for planning an epic multi-island trip to Hawaii .

Determine travel dates and destinations.

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Ideally, you should spend at least one week on each of the four islands. But if you don’t have a full month, plan for four to five days per island, then choose one or two regions within each. 

Make a list of things you want to do in order of importance. This will help you determine where to base yourself on each island and what to eliminate if needed. For example, if sleeping near an active volcano and night snorkeling with manta rays are two activities topping your list, book a couple of nights at the historic Volcano House — the only lodging within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park — on the Hilo side of the Island of Hawaii and a few nights at Mauna Kea Resort or The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort on the Kona side, where you can join a guided small group night snorkel with Manta Ray Advocates .

Don’t forget to factor in flight and drive times. Although some islands appear small on the map, weather, road conditions, and traffic can impact overall travel time. 

Also, consider when to go . Hawaii has microclimates, so weather can vary, but in general, summer is warm with minimal rainfall. This is ideal for beach lovers, but it’s also one of the peak travel times, with families visiting during summer break. Expect higher rates and larger crowds during this time, as well as the weeks surrounding major U.S. holidays such as Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s. 

You may find lower rates and thinner crowds during the winter (with the exception of the holiday season), but the colder months are generally wetter, so if you’re traveling to Hawaii from November through March, be prepared for cooler temperatures, rain, and possible road closures and activity cancellations. The shoulder seasons from March to May (excluding spring break and Easter) and September to October tend to have comfortable weather conditions and slightly fewer crowds than peak seasons.

Identify your travel style.

Some travelers crave leisurely days at the beach, while others prefer an action-packed itinerary. Some gravitate toward lively, larger cities, while others enjoy slower-paced small towns . Discuss your expectations and interests with your travel companions so you can hone in on the regions, tours, and hotels best suited to you.

Do your research. I often hear visitors comment that Oahu is "too busy," yet they haven't ventured beyond Honolulu. Honolulu is the capital city and home to about one million people, so yes, it’s busy. Find an oasis amidst the chaos: With convenient locations, Espacio and The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach are tranquil retreats in the city. Or, if you’re not interested in the urban experience at all, skip the capital and head elsewhere on Oahu . 

You might be tempted to schedule every hour of your itinerary in order to make the most of your trip, but don’t overbook. Allow time for rest, and aim for balance, so you don't wind up exhausted. Follow an active day of touring with some leisure time or a spa treatment.

Plan your route.

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Although you can start and end wherever you choose, it’s wise to look at flight schedules to plot an efficient route. Kauai is in the northwest, and the Island of Hawaii is in the southeast, so starting in Kauai and traveling southeast — to Oahu, Maui, and then the Island of Hawaii — makes sense logistically. It also provides variety, from the slower pace of Kauai to a mix of urban adventures and cruising the countryside on Oahu and Maui. You'll end with a bang on the Island of Hawaii, where you can feel the energy of volcanic activity. In this case, you’ll also be following the order in which the islands were formed, so it’s a great way to experience them from oldest to youngest and observe the geological evolution along the way. 

When booking flights, consider multicity rather than a round-trip option. If you’ll be traveling the Kauai to the Island of Hawaii route suggested above, you can arrive in Kauai, book onward interisland flights to Oahu, Maui, and the Island of Hawaii, then depart from Kona. Keep in mind that some interisland flights are not direct and may require a stopover in Honolulu or Kahului, for example, so be sure to check before booking. You can often secure direct interisland flights by choosing one that departs earlier in the day.

Enlist the help of experts.

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While you can travel around the islands on your own, we recommend booking some guided experiences. Native Hawaiian guides and cultural practitioners, in particular, offer personal stories and context that will give you an entirely different — and much richer — experience. Plus, by booking with Native Hawaiian experts, you’re supporting the perpetuation of Hawaiian culture. 

Many hotels, like ‘Alohilani Resort and Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa on Oahu and Ka’anapali Beach Hotel on Maui, are increasingly providing complimentary, Native Hawaiian-led activities that include hula, Hawaiian language lessons, lei-making sessions, and sunrise ceremonies. Other properties, like Timbers and Kukui’ula on Kauai, offer farm tours to acquaint guests (and their taste buds) with the abundance of plants and produce grown there. Some hotels, including Halekulani , provide private tours or discounted or free entrance to local sites of significance such as Bishop Museum , Iolani Palace , and Shangri La Museum of Islamic Art, Culture, and Design . Be sure to ask about these offerings prior to booking your hotels. 

When it comes to physical activities such as hiking, guided tours with reputable operators like Kauai Hiking Tours help ensure your safety. And in some cases, a guided tour can afford access to extraordinary places, like Hualalai crater, a sacred site located on private land that only two tour operators — Uluha'o O Hualalai and Hawaii Forest & Trail — have permission to reach. (For a beachside stay nearby, check out Four Seasons Resort Hualalai ).

Some expert-led trips from operators such as Kailani Tours can also help you maximize your time by bringing you to a variety of sites in one day, allowing you to enjoy the ride rather than worry about logistics and navigation. 

Make reservations.

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Many popular places such as Hanauma Bay on Oahu now require reservations, and popular tours, including sunrise at Haleakalā on Maui and sunset at Mauna Kea on the Island of Hawaii, often sell out, so it’s best to book as far in advance as possible. Arnott’s Adventures offers sunset and stargazing tours from Hilo, and if you’re on the Kona side, check out Hawaii Forest & Trail’s Summit & Stars Give Back Experience .

You should also secure dinner reservations so you don’t miss out on your top choices or waste time waiting for a table. And don’t forget car rentals for each island, too; these do sell out and — with the exception of Honolulu, where shuttles, public buses, and ride-share options are available — it can be difficult and expensive to get around without your own wheels. 

Pack your bags.

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One of the biggest mistakes people make when traveling to Hawaii is assuming it’s always sunny and warm. If you’re planning to visit multiple islands, you’ll likely encounter a variety of microclimates and changing weather conditions. Come prepared with layers and appropriate footwear for your activities, and always pack a rain jacket. And, of course, pack a Hawaiian shirt or two.

Bring binoculars, too, to get a better view of wildlife such as endemic birds and migrating whales, as well as dynamic landscapes. If you’re fortunate enough to witness volcanic activity, you’ll be happy to have these on hand for a close-up view of bubbling lava. Some tours do include outdoor gear and equipment; inquire when booking. 

Consider additional islands.

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If you have time and want to add another island to your trip, there are a few options available to visitors. You can take the ferry from Maui to Lanai for a day trip or spend a night or two and sink into that relaxed island life. 

If you’re interested in visiting Kalaupapa National Historical Park on Molokai, allow a few extra days. Keep in mind that flights to Molokai are limited, and as the island is home to vulnerable kupuna (elderly people), it's slowly reopening to visitors since the pandemic started.

If you prefer a private tour to a neighboring island, Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea can charter a yacht or helicopter from Maui to Lanai or Molokai. 

Although you’re not permitted to step ashore on Ni'ihau, the “Forbidden Island,” without an invitation, you can snorkel the waters nearby on a Holo Holo Charters Super Tour . 

Travel with aloha. 

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For you, Hawaii may be a dream destination. For those who live here, it's home and, for many, sacred. Travel with respect : Stay on marked trails, don’t enter private property, obey warnings (from posted signs, lifeguards, and law enforcement), and be mindful that the environment is fragile and the land has cultural, spiritual, and ecological significance.

Be flexible, too. Don’t be attached to a particular expectation or activity. Sometimes, plans change due to weather (like that time I flew to Kauai to see the famed cliffs of the Nā Pali Coast and colors of Waimea Canyon, only to find it all covered in clouds and fog). If you’re lucky enough to visit Hawaii, embrace the unexpected, stay present, and aim to enjoy the experience — rain or shine. 

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Going to Waikiki in January and looking for recommendations. - Hawaii Forum

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Going to Waikiki in January and looking for recommendations.

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2 replies to this topic

Sorry I don't know of any multi-bedroom suites from personal experience, but I'm hopefully others will be along with some suggestions.

Besides Pearl Harbor and a luau, here are some highlights on Oahu that people enjoy: Iolani Palace , Bishop Museum , Foster Botanical Garden, Byodo-In Temple , Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden, the KCC Saturday morning Farmer's Market, hike DiamondHead, North Shore circle drive, Honolulu Museum of Art, ShangriLa Estate tour, the Zoo, the Aquarium.

Happy planning! suze

Welcome to the forum!

Car rental is also very expensive and you will need a minivan or large SUV. Check out discounthawaiicarrental.com for a quick view on rental costs. Some condo rentals will include a parking space and some won't, but no one rental will provide two spaces.

Under the best circumstances, I would estimate that your budget could JUST cover lodging and car rental . I am sure that others will also chime in with their advice.

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Best Places to Eat in Waikiki on a Budget

Are you planning a trip to oahu on a budget scroll to find out the best places to eat in waikiki on a budget.

Ready to chow down in Waikiki ?

If you’re looking for a delicious meal on a budget, Waikiki is the place to go. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or something to enjoy over a long period of time, there are plenty of places to choose from. 

We’ve got you covered with this guide of all the best places to eat on a budget. You won’t have to worry about breaking the bank while enjoying some of Hawaii’s most delicious food.

Here is your ultimate guide on finding all the best places to eat in Waikiki on a budget. 

Best Budget-Friendly Oahu Activities

• Mele Luau (you can skip dinner and just pay to watch the show at a fraction of the price)
• Glass Bottom Boat (this is cheaper than the submarine ride and still really cool)
• 2-Hour Whale Watching Tour (this is a short and affordable boat tour during winter months)
• Waikiki Snorkel with Turtles Cruise (this is one of the cheapest snorkeling tours on Oahu)
• Shaka Driving App (it’s like going on an island tour at a fraction of the price)

Best Budget-Friendly Oahu Hotels

• Aloha Suites Waikiki (this is on the quieter end of Waikiki near the Honolulu Zoo and Diamond Head)
• Waikiki Marina Resort (it’s right next to the Hilton Hawaiian Village and walkable to Ala Moana Center)
• Kailua Vacation Rental (this is perfect for those wanting to escape Waikiki for a quieter part of Oahu)

Want to Rent a Car in Hawaii?

One of the best places to rent a car in Hawaii is Discount Hawaii Car Rental because they get the best rates from top national companies like Alamo, Dollar, Thrifty, Avis, Enterprise, Budget, and Payless.

Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Oahu itinerary complete with daily schedules, fun activities, and travel hacks? Click the button below.

There are plenty of great ways to go to Oahu on a budget. There are plenty of free and cheap things to do on Oahu. One of the most important things to do is to find places to eat that are not expensive. 

Here are all the cheap places to eat in Waikiki. Here you will find plenty of local food as well as restaurants that taste great but are good for your budget too. 

1. Uncle Sharkii

My top pick for where to eat in Waikiki on a budget is Uncle Sharkii at the International Marketplace.

Co-founded by Hawaii local born and raised, Raymond Reyes, Uncle Sharkii is dedicated to offering its Signature Hawaiian® Poke Bowls, inspired by his upbringing growing up in Hawaii. 

Built on the principles of Ohana and creating a welcoming atmosphere for families, the menu caters to everyone, providing wholesome and appetizing options. Committed to ensuring access to nutritious and delicious food for all, Uncle Sharkii keeps its menu straightforward and wallet-friendly.

The Poke Bowls are generously filled with your choice of proteins, addressing the top concern of Poke Bowl fans: “How much fish is in my bowl?”

Alongside their mouth-watering Poke Bowls, Uncle Sharkii also serves Boba Milk Teas and Dole Soft Serve, culminating in an enjoyable and satisfying meal that’s perfect for budget travelers seeking an affordable yet healthy taste of Hawaii.

2. Gina’s Barbeque 

One of the best cheap eats in Honolulu is Gina’s Barbeque . It has been a Waikiki favorite for its delicious and affordable Hawaiian-inspired meals.

The majority of their menu includes plate lunches that will easily feed more than one person and comes with a main entree, 4 choices of side dishes, and 3 scoops of rice. These plate lunches typically cost around $13.

This restaurant offers a variety of dishes such as hamburgers, pork katsu, soups, BBQ chicken, fried chicken wings, and so much more! 

Gina’s Barbeque is located in Honolulu, right by Waikiki, and is open from 10:00 am to 8:45 pm every day. 

3. Cuckoo Coconuts Waikiki

Another one Honolulu cheap eats is Cuckoo Coconuts , located right in the middle of Waikiki. Here you will find an old-fashioned Tiki bar that serves tropical Hawaiian food with live music every single night. 

What sets this place apart is that it is all outdoors! You can enjoy the beauty of Hawaii and get some cheap food too. The most expensive meal on the menu costs $19, while the rest are around $10 to $14. 

From poke salad to coconut shrimp, teriyaki chicken, and Hawaiian-style fish and chips, there is something for everyone to enjoy during their vacation to Oahu. 

You will find Cuckoo Coconuts on Royal Hawaiian Ave. It is open every day from 5:00 pm to midnight. 

4. Marukame Udon

Marukame Udon is another one of the cheap places to eat on Oahu that you will enjoy. This is one of the best Japanese restaurants in Waikiki! 

You will find plenty of great udon bowls, or you can create your own! First, choose your udon bowl, add the toppings you want, and finish off by adding tempura if you wish! They also have delicious rice bowls available too. You can get an udon or rice bowl for around $8-15 here. 

This restaurant is open daily from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm and is located on Kuhio Ave in Waikiki.  

5. L&L Hawaiian Barbecue 

One of the local’s favorite cheap eats on Oahu is, of course, L&L Hawaiian Barbecue . It offers visitors a menu that features the best of Hawaii at an affordable price point. 

Get a BBQ beef bowl, chicken katsu, fried shrimp, loco moco, and other great Hawaiian foods you will absolutely love. Plate lunches range from $8 to $13, or you can order each item individually for less. 

There are multiple L&L restaurants all in the Waikiki area, including Ala Moana Beach Park – Diamond Head, Ala Wai, or Ala Moana Beach Park – Ewa. Most are open between 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, with some opening earlier or staying open later. 

6. Helena’s Hawaiian Food

Helena’s Hawaiian Food , another one of the cheap places to eat in Honolulu, has been open since 1946. It is well known by both the locals and tourists. Here you can find simple Hawaiian food that is very affordable and delicious. 

The best way to order here is by ordering what you want a la carte, not from getting a meal plate. Order a side of rice for $1.95, kalua pork for $7.15, and macaroni salad for $3.60, and you have a tasty traditional Hawaiian meal for $12.70! 

Choices range from beef stew, poi, Lomi Lomi, poke ahi, long rice chicken, opihi, and so much more. Enjoy all the Hawaiian classics at a reasonable price. 

Helena’s Hawaiian Food is located on School Street in Waikiki and is open Tuesday to Friday from 10:00 am to 7:30 pm. 

7. Nico’s Pier 38

One of the must-eat places in Oahu is Nico’s Pier 38 . The food here is mouth-watering and delicious, but it is only cheaper when you eat here for breakfast and lunch. Their dinner menu is well over $15, but you can find breakfast and lunch meals for $16 and under. 

For breakfast, enjoy some fish and eggs, fish omelet, pancakes, steak and eggs, or french toast. For dinner, you can grab orange fried chicken, beef stew, ahi poke salad, or garlic pesto shrimp. No matter what you eat here, it will be absolutely tasty and fresh! 

Nico’s Pier 38 is on Nimitz Highway. Their breakfast menu is available from 6:30 am to 10:00 am every day except Sunday. You can grab some lunch here from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm every day of the week. 

8. Musubi Cafe Iyasume

Located along the Waikiki Beach Walk, you will find Musubi Cafe Iyasume . It is another one of the best cheap eats in Oahu because everything you’ll find here is under $10! 

Here you will find tons of variations of a musubi. A musubi is a rice ball that has some sort of meat on top, usually spam in Hawaii, and wrapped in seaweed. It is a very popular snack or lunch food in Hawaii! 

While this may not entirely fill you up or be a fancy meal, you can grab 3 musubis to try out for only $8. They also have a combination menu which will give you a small lunch for only $9. It is a great option for those wanting to try local food but has a strict budget. 

You can find three different Musubi Cafe Iyasume along Waikiki! Each location is open anywhere from 7:00 am to 9:00 pm. 

9. Oahu Mexican Grill

If you are in the mood for some delicious Mexican food, try this inexpensive restaurant in Waikiki. The Oahu Mexican Grill only uses 100% grass-fed, all-natural beef and makes their salsas and guacamole fresh every day. This is what makes the food here absolutely incredible! 

You can get a huge burrito for only $12. Other items on the menu include chicken tacos, carnitas bowl, super nachos, salads, and more. Nothing on the menu is over $16, making it inexpensive but definitely tasty. It’s one of the best kid-friendly Oahu restaurants !

The Oahu Mexican Grill is located on Kalakaua Ave in Waikiki and is open every day from 7:00 am to 10:00 pm. 

10. Maguro Spot

Another one of the best cheap eats in Waikiki is Maguro Spot . It is a little hole in the wall but is definitely worth a visit. It has some of the best poke on the island, but it is very affordable! 

A small bowl of poke is $9, and an XL bowl is only $18! You can choose from a variety of options, including curry, poke, salmon, tuna, spicy garlic shrimp, and so much more. There are also a few side options as well. 

You will find this delicious poke spot on Kuhio Ave in Waikiki, and it is open every day except Sunday from 10:00 am to 8:30 pm.  

11. Steak Shack

Steak Shack is one of the best cheap restaurants in Honolulu and is perfect for couples who want to eat some delicious steak while on their vacation. You have the option of grabbing a steak plate or a chicken plate. 

The cheapest plate only costs $8.75, and the most expensive plate is $13.50, making it not only delicious and the best steak on the island but also the cheapest! Each plate comes with two scoops of rice and some organic greens. 

You can get some steak from Steak Shack every day from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm. You will find this restaurant on Kalia Rd. 

12. Rainbow Drive-In

You will find Rainbow Drive-In to be another one of the best cheap places to eat in Waikiki. This restaurant first opened in 1961 and served hearty portions for a very reasonable price, and they still continue that today! 

You can grab huge lunch plates for $8 to $12. They pride themselves on getting your food to you quickly, so this is a great place for when you are in a hurry. Try the Mahi Mahi, chili dog, BBQ beef, or hamburger steak plate. 

The Rainbow Drive-In, located on Kanaina Avenue, is open daily from 7:00 am to 9:00 pm. 

13. Teddy’s Bigger Burgers 

Another one of the best affordable restaurants in Waikiki is Teddy’s Bigger Burgers . Here you will find some delicious burgers that are humungous and cheap. 

Burgers range from $8 to $15, making them super affordable for anyone’s budget! Other than burgers, you will find chicken baskets, a salad, and side options as well. 

Teddy’s Bigger Burgers is open from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm every day of the week and is located on Beretania Ave. 

14. Topped Waikiki

One of Oahu’s cheap eats is Topped Waikiki . Here you will find tasty Korean food that you will love. 

From chicken bibimbap to kalbi steak and eggs, chicken mayo, shoyu chicken, and more, you will find something to satisfy your craving. Prices range from $8 to $16 at the most, making it super cheap and affordable. 

You will find Topped Waikiki on Royal Hawaiian Ave. It is open daily from 10:30 am to 10:00 pm. 

15. Me’s BBQ

From another Korean restaurant, head to Me’s BBQ . Here you will find another one of the best cheap restaurants in Waikiki filled with tasty food you will enjoy. 

Try the squid stir fry, fried fish, chicken katsu, kalbi steak, or other incredible options. Most items on the menu are between $6 and $18. You can get a filling breakfast here for only $7! 

Me’s BBQ is open Monday through Saturday from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm and is located on Uluniu Ave. 

Tips for Eating in Waikiki on a Budget

Waikiki is an amazing place to eat out, and there are many affordable restaurants available. However, it’s important to take some time to find the best eats in Waikiki that fit within your budget to get the most out of your money. 

Here are a few tips to help you have a wonderful Hawaii vacation on a budget: 

• If you don’t eat a lot of food for your meals, consider ordering from the Kids menu, often called the Keiki menu. They have a great proportion of food but always cost less than a regular plate. 
• Don’t be afraid to ask the locals for recommendations. They often know where to find delicious food that doesn’t cost too much money. 
• If you are on a very tight budget, you might want to go to the store, like Foodland, and get some food to make your own lunches or get the premade ones there. Those will most likely be cheaper than any place to eat. 
• Go to places during happy hour where they will have cheaper drinks and appetizers that work as meals. 
• If you plan to visit Honolulu on a budget, go to the farmer’s markets. Here you will find fresh produce to make your own meals as well as tons of vendors and food trucks that offer cheaper selections than most restaurants. 

Cheap Eats in Honolulu Wrap Up

Go to any of these places to eat in Waikiki on a budget to help you have a great vacation in Hawaii. These places will give you the best deals and the most delicious food too! You can’t go wrong with any of these Waikiki cheap eats. Try out as many as you can during your trip to see which one you like best! 

Looking for more Oahu travel resources? Check out the best things to do on Oahu on a budget , cheap places to stay on Oahu , beautiful beaches on Oahu , how to get to North Shore from Waikiki , and top Oahu waterfall hikes !

The post Best Places to Eat in Waikiki on a Budget appeared first on Hawaii Travel Spot .

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Hyatt Regency Waikiki Vs Hilton Hawaiian Village. Which Is Best?

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Hilton Hawaiian Village

When comparing Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort Vs. Hilton Hawaiian Village it is immediately worth mentioning that the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort is confusingly named as it isn’t actually on the beach. It’s across the road and down the street from the beach, and while some of the rooms have ocean views, you cannot avoid walking and crossing the road to get to the beach.

Hilton Hawaiian Village is a huge hotel that is set on the beach. Granted that your room may be set some way back from the beach and there may still be a walk to the beach, but most rooms are considerably closer to the beach if you stay at the Hilton Hawaiian Village, and there are no busy through roads to cross.

Neither hotel is our number one choice in Waikiki. If you can stretch to it we love the Halekulani and Royal Hawaiian in Waikiki and the Four Seasons Oahu beyond Waikiki.

Book your next Hyatt Hilton, Waldorf Astoria, LXR Hotel & Resorts, or Conrad stay via our luxury travel concierge , and we can secure you free loyalty-style benefits (on top of your own status and membership benefits), room upgrades and perks, for no extra cost.

Typically, our free Hilton Impresario client benefits include:

• Double Hilton Honors Points
• Complimentary breakfast for two
• $100 USD hotel credit per stay, or local currency equivalent
• Next category upgrade (subject to availability)
• Complimentary welcome gift

Four Seasons Oahu Vs. Ritz-Carlton Waikiki Vs. Halekulani Vs. Royal Hawaiian

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Which is the best hotel on Oahu Beach? Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina Vs. Ritz Carlton Waikiki Vs. Halekulani Vs Royal Hawaiian. These four hotels are in quite different locations. Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina is not in Waikiki or Honolulu. Four Seasons is in Ko Olina, which is a good hours drive from Honolulu, depending on traffic. So if you want to explore Honolulu and Waikiki, then Four Seasons isn't a great choice. What Four Seasons does have is larger grounds, a better beach, a more stylish pool area, and a fantastic tropical resort feel.

1. Location

The Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa is located just a short walk from Waikiki Beach, typically around 5-10 minutes depending on the exact location within Waikiki and the specific access point to the beach.

Unfortunately, this location is set back from the beach, so you have to cross roads to get to the beach. The location also means that none of the rooms have the same oceanfront views that you will get from some rooms at the Hilton Hawaiian Village as the building is set back from the beach.

The Hyatt Regency Waikiki is more central to the action, with attractions like the famous Dukes Waikiki restaurant and the International Market Place all within a few moments walk. All the major beachfront hotels, like the Halekulani and the Royal Hawaiian, are close to the The Hyatt Regency Waikiki and easy to walk to.

Hilton Hawaiian Village is Waikiki’s only true resort destination. It is located on the widest stretch of beach in Waikiki. This expansive resort is a destination in itself, with its own lagoon, multiple pools, and a variety of restaurants and shops on-site. It is some way from the center of Waikiki if you are walking.

You can take an open-air trolley around Waikiki for an easy way to get around from the Hilton Hawaiian Village, but if you want to pop out for a quick drink or bite at one of the main luxury hotels in Waikiki like the Halekulani, you are quite some walk from the action.

While both the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach and Hilton Hawaiian Village are great hotels, the Hyatt Regency Waikiki is not on the beach but is in the center of the action. The Hilton Hawaiian Village is right on the beach but further from the action.

The Royal Hawaiian or Pink Palace is a great choice for both beach and action. We also love the waterfront Halekulani. Although this hotel doesn’t have much beach, it is on the waterfront and has a magnificent pool and grounds.

If you want the best hotel on the island of Oahu, it has to be Four Seasons Oahu which is one of the best Four Seasons on Hawaii and is not to be missed. Four Seasons Oahu is not in or even near Waikiki but it is on a glorious beach in a beautiful setting.

What Is The Best Four Seasons Hotel In Hawaii?

Four Seasons has four hotels in Hawaii: Four Seasons Hualalai (on Big Island), Four Seasons Lanai, Four Seasons Maui at Wailea, and the Four Seasons Oahu at Ko Olina, which is the newest of the four. They are all gorgeous, and they are all pretty expensive. They all feature in our picks of the best Four Seasons hotels in the world. Four Seasons is a particularly outstanding hotel brand, and Four Seasons hotels are usually the best option in any resort area. My reviews of the Four Seasons hotels in Hawaii can be found below.

2. Accommodations

Hyatt Regency Waikiki features modern and comfortable guest rooms and suites, many with balconies offering ocean or city views, although the ocean views are set back from the beach as this resort is set behind the beach. The accommodations are well-appointed and designed for both leisure and business travelers. The grounds here are limited and rather concret-y set afew floors up.

Hilton Hawaiian Village offers a wide range of accommodations, including hotel rooms, suites, and villas spread across five towers and various low-rise buildings. Options range from standard guest rooms to luxurious suites with oceanfront views. And these really are oceanfront. This hotel is slap bang on the beach.

3. Amenities

Hyatt Regency Waikiki is smaller in scale compared to Hilton Hawaiian Village and offers amenities such as a pool, fitness center, on-site dining options, and a convenient location near Waikiki Beach.

Hilton Hawaiian Village boasts an extensive list of amenities, including multiple swimming pools, water slides, a saltwater lagoon, a full-service spa, a fitness center, a wide range of dining options, shopping boutiques, cultural activities, and water sports rentals. And let’s not forget that the entire resort is spread out along the beach.

10 Best Hilton Hotels In Hawaii

Which is the best Hilton hotel in Hawaii for a family vacation or a honeymoon? Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort vs. Grand Wailea Maui A Waldorf Astoria Resort vs. Hilton Waikoloa Village vs. Embassy Suites by Hilton. If you fly into Honolulu (HNL), you will probably head straight to the resort of Waikiki for your stay in Hawaii, but don't miss out on the other islands as there are some fantastic Hilton Honors hotels in Maui, Kauai, and Big Island too.

4. Atmosphere

There is less to the Hyatt Regency Waikiki. It lacks the resort vibe of the Hilton Hawaiian Village and is instead a well-located hotel near lots of things.

Hilton Hawaiian Village is a proper resort hotel, so much so that you don’t need to leave. It has a beach, tropical grounds, great bars and restaurants, and is known for its bustling and lively atmosphere.

This resort caters to families, couples, and travelers of all ages, and if you have kids, being right on the beach has to be a major advantage, and crossing busy roads to get to the beach has to be a major disadvantage. So the Hilton Hawaiian Village wins for families.

Best Hyatt Hotel In Hawaii: Andaz Maui Vs Grand Vs Regency Vs Centric

Which is the best Hyatt hotel in Hawaii for earning or spending your World Of Hyatt points? Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort vs. Grand Hyatt Kauai vs. Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa vs. Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa vs. Hyatt Centric and Hyatt Place Waikiki Beach? Best For Views: Hana-Maui Resort and Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa Ocean View Rooms (pictured above) Best For Beach: Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa and the Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort Best For Pools: Grand Hyatt Kauai followed by the Hyatt Regency Maui.

5. Conclusion

The Hilton Hawaiian Village is iconic for its rainbow tower and is the better hotel overall because we love the direct oceanfront access, the beachfront bars, the greenery (and penguins) in its tropical grounds, and the way the resort hugs the edge of the golden sand Waikiki beachfront with its calm waters.

We especially love the bar at the Hilton Hawaiian Village, which sits on the beach’s edge. It is the perfect place for a sundowner cocktail.

The Hyatt Regency Waikiki is set within the concrete jungle of Waikiki although it does have a club lounge.

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Top Things to do in Honolulu, Hawaii

Honolulu, Hawaii , is probably the island state's most famous city, renowned for its natural beauty and status as a hub of commerce. From 2023 to 2025, it features not only as a port of call in 12 Norwegian Cruise Line cruises but also as the main point of exploration in three cruisetours, which allow you to enjoy a longer and more immersive period in Hawaii's capital. There are plenty of things to see and do there, so we thought some guidance could be helpful. To that end, here are four of the top things to do when you're in Honolulu, Hawaii.

Ready to start planning? Explore all Honolulu cruises .

Visit Pearl Harbor

On Dec. 7, 1941, Pearl Harbor was the site of a devastating aerial attack that would launch the United States into World War II. Today, it remains an active military base but is also a National Historic Landmark as well as the site of the Pearl Harbor National Memorial.

The Pearl Harbor National Memorial combines the USS Arizona, USS Oklahoma, and USS Utah Memorials, which commemorate the lives lost on each of the naval battleships during the attack. Nearby are additional attractions: the USS Missouri Memorial, the USS Bowfin Museum, and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum. Altogether, Pearl Harbor serves as a one-stop education in one of the most important events in American and world history.

According to Pearl Harbor Historic Sites, you should plan to make a whole day of your visit if you want to enjoy the best experience. If you'd like to streamline your visit, consider our Pearl Harbor & Honolulu City, Pearl Harbor & USS Missouri, or Early Bird Pearl Harbor shore excursions.

Take in the North Shore

Lovers of beaches and water sports may want to head to Honolulu's North Shore, an extensive coastal area that comprises 51 beaches. As the North Shore Chamber of Commerce will tell you, this part of Hawaii is renowned for its beaches, bays, and surfing. From October to April, the swells can reach more than 30 feet, making the area an ideal host site for surfing competitions such as the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing and Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational.

The North Shore isn't just for surfers, either. Areas such as the Waimea Valley Trail, which leads to the 45-foot Waimea Falls, make it a terrific destination for hikers while the fauna in places such as Laniakea Beach and Shark's Cove means it's an attractive stop for wildlife enthusiasts as well.

If you do decide to visit the North Shore during your day at port, you may be interested to know that we have a shore excursion for that, too.

Check Out Bishop Museum

Bishop Museum is considered one of the finest showcases of Polynesian culture. It was founded in 1889 to display Hawaiian artifacts and royal family heirlooms belonging to Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop, but the museum's scope would later expand to include other items of cultural significance as well as specimens of natural history.

Within Bishop Museum, you'll find exhibitions such as Hawaiian Hall, a three-story exhibition that centers on subjects such as the Hawaiian gods and key historical events, and the J. Watumull Planetarium, an astronomy facility featuring a 50-foot full-dome theater. The museum also cycles through a variety of temporary exhibitions in areas such as art and interactive play.

Step Into the Past at 'Iolani Palace

'Iolani Palace, which also dates back to the 1880s, is a registered National Historic Landmark and the erstwhile home of Hawaii's last monarchs. As such, it's the only official state royal residence in the United States of America.

You have a wide range of tour options at 'Iolani Palace, including docent-led tours and self-guided audio tours. There are also specialty tours that center on specific themes. For example, the Kalākaua Legacy Tour delves into the life and legacy of Hawaii's last king, and the Fashion Fit for Royalty Tour showcases the wardrobes and jewelry of the royal family. Most of the tours follow a weekly schedule, but the docent-led tours (available on Wednesdays and Thursdays) require reservations.

RELATED CRUISES: 14-Day South Pacific From Honolulu to Papeete: Kauai, Maui & Moorea 14-Day South Pacific from Honolulu to Papeete: Bora Bora, Kauai, Kona & Maui 19-Day Hawaii from Vancouver to Honolulu: Ketchikan & Kauai

Plan Your Honolulu Adventure

We hope the recommendations provided here help you appreciate the immensity of Honolulu's natural beauty and the breadth of its cultural offerings. We hope, too, that you look into our Free at Sea deals to advantage of offers such as free excursions, free specialty dining, and open bars. If you'd like, you can sign up for our digital newsletter to get additional deals sent directly to your email.