Best of Honolulu
Beyond Waikiki: ridgeline hikes, tide pools, and local plate lunch.
The shoulder seasons bring great weather, thinner crowds, and better prices. Winter is a little wetter and the December holidays are the busiest, priciest stretch.
Day 1 · Waikiki Welcome & Sunset
- 1Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon
Paddleboard or kayak in calm waters, perfect for beginners.
- 2International Market Place
Browse unique shops and enjoy a meal in a beautiful open-air setting.
- 3Waikiki Beach
Walk along the iconic shoreline and catch a stunning sunset.
Day 2 · Diamond Head & Kaimuki Charm
- 1Diamond Head State Monument
Hike to the summit for panoramic views of Waikiki and the coastline.
- 2Kaimuki Superette
Grab a delicious and fresh farm-to-table breakfast or lunch.
- 3Kaimuki Town
Explore the charming local boutiques and eateries of this historic neighborhood.
Day 3 · North Shore Surf & Sunset
- 1Waimea Bay Beach Park
Watch big wave surfers in winter or swim in calm waters during summer.
- 2Banzai Pipeline (Ehukai Beach Park)
Witness legendary surf breaks; best for experienced surfers to watch.
- 3Giovanni's Shrimp Truck
Taste the iconic garlic shrimp that's a North Shore staple.
- 4Sunset Beach
Enjoy a picturesque sunset over the Pacific Ocean.
Day 4 · Manoa Rainforest & Local Bites
- 1Manoa Falls Trail
Easy hike through a lush rainforest to a beautiful waterfall.
- 2Manoa Marketplace
Discover local shops and diverse food options in this community hub.
- 3Helena's Hawaiian Food
Savor authentic Hawaiian dishes; a beloved local institution.
Day 5 · Coastal Views & Kailua Town
- 1Makapuʻu Lighthouse Trail
Paved trail to a lighthouse with stunning ocean views and whale watching in winter.
- 2Makapuʻu Tide Pools
Explore natural ocean pools at low tide; wear water shoes and be cautious.
- 3Kailua Beach Park
Relax on one of Oahu's most beautiful beaches, great for swimming and kayaking.
- 4Lanikai Pillbox Hike (Kaiwa Ridge Trail)
Moderate hike for incredible views of Lanikai Beach and the Mokulua Islands.
Day 6 · Pearl Harbor & Downtown History
- 1Pearl Harbor National Memorial
Reflect on history at the USS Arizona Memorial and museums.
- 2Iolani Palace
Explore the only official residence of royalty in the United States.
- 3Chinatown, Honolulu
Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, art, and food scene of this historic district.
Day 7 · Leeward Coast Beauty
- 1Ko Olina Lagoons
Swim and relax in a series of man-made, protected lagoons.
- 2Ka'ena Point State Park (West Side)
Hike or bike to the undeveloped westernmost tip of Oahu for wild coastline views.
- 3Monkeypod Kitchen Ko Olina
Enjoy a farm-to-table meal with live music in a relaxed setting.
Day 8 · Central Oahu & Dole Whip
- 1Dole Plantation
Get a Dole Whip and explore tropical gardens and pineapple fields. Watch out for the tourist trap at the end with souvenirs and tours.
- 2Hawaii Plantation Village
Step back in time to learn about Hawaii's diverse plantation history.
- 3Green World Coffee Farms
Sample locally grown coffee and learn about the coffee-making process.
Day 9 · East Oahu Beaches & Food Trucks
- 1Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
Snorkel in a protected marine sanctuary (reservations often required).
- 2Sandy Beach Park
Watch bodyboarders and bodysurfers; powerful shore break, swim with caution.
- 3Koko Head Cafe (Kaimuki)
Enjoy a delicious brunch with a local twist by Chef Lee Anne Wong.
- 4Leonard's Bakery Malasadas
Indulge in hot, fresh Portuguese doughnuts, a beloved local treat.
Day 10 · Waikiki Leisure & Farewell
- 1Kapiʻolani Regional Park
Relax in this large urban park, often with local events and views of Diamond Head.
- 2Honolulu Zoo
Visit diverse animals and lush exhibits in a family-friendly setting.
- 3Ala Moana Center
Last-minute souvenir shopping or a final meal at one of the many restaurants.
Make it your own
Start from this curated plan — Runes copies it into your trips so you can tweak dates, budget, pace, and stops. Personalized to your style soon.