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
Open in MapsActivity
Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon
Paddleboard or kayak in calm waters, perfect for beginners.
Shopping
International Market Place
Browse unique shops and enjoy a meal in a beautiful open-air setting.
Sightseeing
Waikiki Beach
Walk along the iconic shoreline and catch a stunning sunset.
Day 2·Diamond Head & Kaimuki Charm
Open in MapsSightseeing
Diamond Head State Monument
Hike to the summit for panoramic views of Waikiki and the coastline.
Food
Kaimuki Superette
Grab a delicious and fresh farm-to-table breakfast or lunch.
Shopping
Kaimuki Town
Explore the charming local boutiques and eateries of this historic neighborhood.
Day 3·North Shore Surf & Sunset
Open in MapsSightseeing
Waimea Bay Beach Park
Watch big wave surfers in winter or swim in calm waters during summer.
Sightseeing
Banzai Pipeline (Ehukai Beach Park)
Witness legendary surf breaks; best for experienced surfers to watch.
Food
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck
Taste the iconic garlic shrimp that's a North Shore staple.
Sightseeing
Sunset Beach
Enjoy a picturesque sunset over the Pacific Ocean.
Day 4·Manoa Rainforest & Local Bites
Open in MapsActivity
Manoa Falls Trail
Easy hike through a lush rainforest to a beautiful waterfall.
Shopping
Manoa Marketplace
Discover local shops and diverse food options in this community hub.
Food
Helena's Hawaiian Food
Savor authentic Hawaiian dishes; a beloved local institution.
Day 5·Coastal Views & Kailua Town
Open in MapsSightseeing
Makapuʻu Lighthouse Trail
Paved trail to a lighthouse with stunning ocean views and whale watching in winter.
Activity
Makapuʻu Tide Pools
Explore natural ocean pools at low tide; wear water shoes and be cautious.
Rest
Kailua Beach Park
Relax on one of Oahu's most beautiful beaches, great for swimming and kayaking.
Activity
Lanikai Pillbox Hike (Kaiwa Ridge Trail)
Moderate hike for incredible views of Lanikai Beach and the Mokulua Islands.
Day 6·Pearl Harbor & Downtown History
Open in MapsSightseeing
Pearl Harbor National Memorial
Reflect on history at the USS Arizona Memorial and museums.
Sightseeing
Iolani Palace
Explore the only official residence of royalty in the United States.
Sightseeing
Chinatown, Honolulu
Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, art, and food scene of this historic district.
Day 7·Leeward Coast Beauty
Open in MapsRest
Ko Olina Lagoons
Swim and relax in a series of man-made, protected lagoons.
Activity
Ka'ena Point State Park (West Side)
Hike or bike to the undeveloped westernmost tip of Oahu for wild coastline views.
Food
Monkeypod Kitchen Ko Olina
Enjoy a farm-to-table meal with live music in a relaxed setting.
Day 8·Central Oahu & Dole Whip
Open in MapsActivity
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.
Sightseeing
Hawaii Plantation Village
Step back in time to learn about Hawaii's diverse plantation history.
Food
Green World Coffee Farms
Sample locally grown coffee and learn about the coffee-making process.
Day 9·East Oahu Beaches & Food Trucks
Open in MapsActivity
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
Snorkel in a protected marine sanctuary (reservations often required).
Rest
Sandy Beach Park
Watch bodyboarders and bodysurfers; powerful shore break, swim with caution.
Food
Koko Head Cafe (Kaimuki)
Enjoy a delicious brunch with a local twist by Chef Lee Anne Wong.
Food
Leonard's Bakery Malasadas
Indulge in hot, fresh Portuguese doughnuts, a beloved local treat.
Day 10·Waikiki Leisure & Farewell
Open in MapsRest
Kapiʻolani Regional Park
Relax in this large urban park, often with local events and views of Diamond Head.
Sightseeing
Honolulu Zoo
Visit diverse animals and lush exhibits in a family-friendly setting.
Shopping
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.