Skip to content
Back to Explore Honolulu, HI

Best of Honolulu

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

5 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 Wonders & Sunset Serenity

  • 1
    Waikiki Beach

    Start with classic Honolulu: iconic views, gentle waves perfect for a first surf lesson.

  • 2
    Duke Kahanamoku Statue

    Pay homage to the father of modern surfing and Olympic medalist.

  • 3
    Diamond Head State Monument

    Hike to the summit for panoramic views of Waikiki and the coastline. Go early to beat the heat and crowds.

  • 4
    Merriman's Honolulu

    Enjoy a farm-to-table dinner with stunning ocean views at this upscale local favorite.

Day 2 · Historic Pearl Harbor & Downtown Delights

  • 1
    Pearl Harbor National Memorial

    A sobering and essential historical experience. Book tickets well in advance.

  • 2
    Iolani Palace

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

  • 3
    Honolulu Chinatown

    Wander through historic streets, discover unique shops, and sample diverse Asian cuisine.

  • 4
    The Pig and the Lady

    Modern Vietnamese cuisine in Chinatown, known for its creative dishes and vibrant atmosphere.

Day 3 · Windward Coast & Natural Beauty

  • 1
    Lanikai Pillbox Hike (Kaiwa Ridge Trai)

    A moderate hike with Instagram-worthy views of Mokulua Islands and Lanikai Beach.

  • 2
    Lanikai Beach

    Relax on one of the world's most beautiful beaches, known for its powdery sand and turquoise water.

  • 3
    Kailua Beach Park

    Another stunning beach, popular for kayaking and paddleboarding.

  • 4
    Helena's Hawaiian Food

    Authentic, traditional Hawaiian plate lunch in a no-frills, beloved local spot.

  • 5
    Leonard's Bakery

    Grab some famous malasadas (Portuguese donuts) for a sweet treat.

Day 4 · North Shore Surf & Sunset Vibes

  • 1
    Dole Plantation

    A fun stop for pineapple treats and souvenirs, but can be touristy. Consider if time allows.

  • 2
    Waimea Bay Beach Park

    Famous surf spot in winter, calm swimming and rock jumping in summer. A true North Shore icon.

  • 3
    Pupukea Beach Park (Shark's Cove)

    Excellent snorkeling and tide pooling, especially in calmer months. Look for the food trucks nearby.

  • 4
    Giovanni's Shrimp Truck

    Savor classic garlic shrimp from one of the North Shore's most famous food trucks.

  • 5
    Sunset Beach

    Watch world-class surfers and enjoy a breathtaking North Shore sunset.

Day 5 · East Oahuʻs Coastal Gems

  • 1
    Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trai

    An easy paved walk to a great viewpoint, with potential for whale watching in winter.

  • 2
    Makapuʻu Tide Pools

    Discover fascinating marine life in natural ocean pools (check tide charts for safety).

  • 3
    Sandy Beach Park

    Known for powerful shore break, popular with local bodyboarders (caution advised for swimming).

  • 4
    Koko Head District Park

    For the adventurous, hike the Koko Head Crater Trail for intense views and a great workout.

  • 5
    Roy's Ko Olina

    End your trip with upscale Hawaiian fusion cuisine in a beautiful setting.

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.