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Best of Honolulu

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

8 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 Views

  • 1
    Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon

    Relax on the calm waters or try stand-up paddleboarding in this iconic lagoon.

  • 2
    Waikiki Beach

    Take a surf lesson or simply enjoy the sun and sand at the world-famous beach.

  • 3
    Diamond Head State Monument

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

  • 4
    House Without A Key

    Enjoy a classic Hawaiian sunset experience with live music and hula.

Day 2 · Pearl Harbor & Downtown History

  • 1
    Pearl Harbor National Memorial

    A powerful and sobering tribute to a pivotal moment in history; book tickets in advance.

  • 2
    Iolani Palace

    The only official residence of royalty in the United States, offering a glimpse into Hawaiian monarchy.

  • 3
    Kamehameha I Statue

    Marvel at this impressive golden statue honoring Hawaii's greatest king.

  • 4
    Helena's Hawaiian Food

    Savor authentic, traditional Hawaiian plate lunch in a no-frills, local favorite spot.

Day 3 · Windward Coast & Local Flavors

  • 1
    Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden

    Drive through this stunning botanical garden with dramatic Koolau Mountain backdrops.

  • 2
    Kailua Beach Park

    Relax on the soft sand of one of Oahu's most beautiful beaches, perfect for swimming.

  • 3
    Lanikai Pillbox Trail (Kaiwa Ridge Hiking Trail)

    Hike this popular trail for iconic views of Lanikai's turquoise waters and the Mokulua Islands.

  • 4
    Over Easy

    Enjoy a delicious and popular brunch in Kailua known for its fresh, local ingredients.

Day 4 · North Shore Surf & Sunset

  • 1
    Dole Plantation

    Learn about Hawaii's pineapple history and enjoy a famous Dole Whip.

  • 2
    Waimea Bay Beach Park

    Witness big wave surfing in winter or jump off

  • 3
    Pupukea Beach Park (Shark's Cove)

    Snorkel in tide pools teeming with marine life; bring reef-safe sunscreen.

  • 4
    Giovanni's Shrimp Truck

    Indulge in classic garlic shrimp, a quintessential North Shore experience.

  • 5
    Sunset Beach

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

Day 5 · East Oahu Coastal Drive & Tide Pools

  • 1
    Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve

    Snorkel in this protected marine life conservation area; reservations often required.

  • 2
    Halona Blowhole Lookout

    Watch dramatic ocean geysers erupt from volcanic rock formations.

  • 3
    Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail

    Hike to the lighthouse for stunning coastal views and whale watching in season.

  • 4
    Makapuʻu Tide Pools

    Explore natural ocean pools at low tide, full of small marine animals (exercise caution).

Day 6 · Manōa Serenity & Local Eats

  • 1
    Manoa Falls Trail

    Hike through a lush rainforest to a beautiful 150-foot waterfall.

  • 2
    Lyon Arboretum

    Discover a stunning collection of tropical plants in a tranquil rainforest setting.

  • 3
    Leonard's Bakery

    Treat yourself to warm, fresh Malasadas, a local Portuguese-Hawaiian doughnut delicacy.

  • 4
    Rainbow Drive-In

    Experience a classic Hawaiian plate lunch institution, loved by locals for decades.

Day 7 · Kualoa Ranch & Polynesian Culture

  • 1
    Kualoa Ranch Private Nature Reserve

    Explore this stunning 'Jurassic Park' filming location with various tours and activities.

  • 2
    Polynesian Cultural Center

    Immerse yourself in the cultures of Polynesia through interactive exhibits and performances.

  • 3
    Laie Point State Wayside

    Enjoy picturesque coastal views and impressive sea arches (Puka Rock).

Day 8 · Leisurely Departure

  • 1
    Ala Moana Center

    Do some last-minute souvenir shopping or enjoy a meal at the world's largest open-air shopping center.

  • 2
    Magic Island

    Enjoy a final stroll, relax on the grass, or take in the views of Diamond Head and the Waikiki skyline.

  • 3
    Kona Brewing Company - Koko Marina Pub

    Enjoy a casual meal and local craft beers with waterfront views.

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.