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Best of Honolulu

Beyond Waikiki: ridgeline hikes, tide pools, and local plate lunch.

10 daysLocal favorites
Best time to visit: April to June, September to November

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

  • 1
    Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon

    Paddleboard or kayak in calm waters, perfect for beginners.

  • 2
    International Market Place

    Browse unique shops and enjoy a meal in a beautiful open-air setting.

  • 3
    Waikiki Beach

    Walk along the iconic shoreline and catch a stunning sunset.

Day 2 · Diamond Head & Kaimuki Charm

  • 1
    Diamond Head State Monument

    Hike to the summit for panoramic views of Waikiki and the coastline.

  • 2
    Kaimuki Superette

    Grab a delicious and fresh farm-to-table breakfast or lunch.

  • 3
    Kaimuki Town

    Explore the charming local boutiques and eateries of this historic neighborhood.

Day 3 · North Shore Surf & Sunset

  • 1
    Waimea Bay Beach Park

    Watch big wave surfers in winter or swim in calm waters during summer.

  • 2
    Banzai Pipeline (Ehukai Beach Park)

    Witness legendary surf breaks; best for experienced surfers to watch.

  • 3
    Giovanni's Shrimp Truck

    Taste the iconic garlic shrimp that's a North Shore staple.

  • 4
    Sunset Beach

    Enjoy a picturesque sunset over the Pacific Ocean.

Day 4 · Manoa Rainforest & Local Bites

  • 1
    Manoa Falls Trail

    Easy hike through a lush rainforest to a beautiful waterfall.

  • 2
    Manoa Marketplace

    Discover local shops and diverse food options in this community hub.

  • 3
    Helena's Hawaiian Food

    Savor authentic Hawaiian dishes; a beloved local institution.

Day 5 · Coastal Views & Kailua Town

  • 1
    Makapuʻu Lighthouse Trail

    Paved trail to a lighthouse with stunning ocean views and whale watching in winter.

  • 2
    Makapuʻu Tide Pools

    Explore natural ocean pools at low tide; wear water shoes and be cautious.

  • 3
    Kailua Beach Park

    Relax on one of Oahu's most beautiful beaches, great for swimming and kayaking.

  • 4
    Lanikai Pillbox Hike (Kaiwa Ridge Trail)

    Moderate hike for incredible views of Lanikai Beach and the Mokulua Islands.

Day 6 · Pearl Harbor & Downtown History

  • 1
    Pearl Harbor National Memorial

    Reflect on history at the USS Arizona Memorial and museums.

  • 2
    Iolani Palace

    Explore the only official residence of royalty in the United States.

  • 3
    Chinatown, Honolulu

    Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, art, and food scene of this historic district.

Day 7 · Leeward Coast Beauty

  • 1
    Ko Olina Lagoons

    Swim and relax in a series of man-made, protected lagoons.

  • 2
    Ka'ena Point State Park (West Side)

    Hike or bike to the undeveloped westernmost tip of Oahu for wild coastline views.

  • 3
    Monkeypod Kitchen Ko Olina

    Enjoy a farm-to-table meal with live music in a relaxed setting.

Day 8 · Central Oahu & Dole Whip

  • 1
    Dole 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.

  • 2
    Hawaii Plantation Village

    Step back in time to learn about Hawaii's diverse plantation history.

  • 3
    Green World Coffee Farms

    Sample locally grown coffee and learn about the coffee-making process.

Day 9 · East Oahu Beaches & Food Trucks

  • 1
    Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve

    Snorkel in a protected marine sanctuary (reservations often required).

  • 2
    Sandy Beach Park

    Watch bodyboarders and bodysurfers; powerful shore break, swim with caution.

  • 3
    Koko Head Cafe (Kaimuki)

    Enjoy a delicious brunch with a local twist by Chef Lee Anne Wong.

  • 4
    Leonard's Bakery Malasadas

    Indulge in hot, fresh Portuguese doughnuts, a beloved local treat.

Day 10 · Waikiki Leisure & Farewell

  • 1
    Kapiʻolani Regional Park

    Relax in this large urban park, often with local events and views of Diamond Head.

  • 2
    Honolulu Zoo

    Visit diverse animals and lush exhibits in a family-friendly setting.

  • 3
    Ala 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.