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 Wonders & Sunset Views
- 1Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon
Relax on the calm waters or try stand-up paddleboarding in this iconic lagoon.
- 2Waikiki Beach
Take a surf lesson or simply enjoy the sun and sand at the world-famous beach.
- 3Diamond Head State Monument
Hike to the summit for panoramic views of Waikiki and the coastline.
- 4House Without A Key
Enjoy a classic Hawaiian sunset experience with live music and hula.
Day 2 · Pearl Harbor & Downtown History
- 1Pearl Harbor National Memorial
A powerful and sobering tribute to a pivotal moment in history; book tickets in advance.
- 2Iolani Palace
The only official residence of royalty in the United States, offering a glimpse into Hawaiian monarchy.
- 3Kamehameha I Statue
Marvel at this impressive golden statue honoring Hawaii's greatest king.
- 4Helena's Hawaiian Food
Savor authentic, traditional Hawaiian plate lunch in a no-frills, local favorite spot.
Day 3 · Windward Coast & Local Flavors
- 1Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden
Drive through this stunning botanical garden with dramatic Koolau Mountain backdrops.
- 2Kailua Beach Park
Relax on the soft sand of one of Oahu's most beautiful beaches, perfect for swimming.
- 3Lanikai Pillbox Trail (Kaiwa Ridge Hiking Trail)
Hike this popular trail for iconic views of Lanikai's turquoise waters and the Mokulua Islands.
- 4Over Easy
Enjoy a delicious and popular brunch in Kailua known for its fresh, local ingredients.
Day 4 · North Shore Surf & Sunset
- 1Dole Plantation
Learn about Hawaii's pineapple history and enjoy a famous Dole Whip.
- 2Waimea Bay Beach Park
Witness big wave surfing in winter or jump off
- 3Pupukea Beach Park (Shark's Cove)
Snorkel in tide pools teeming with marine life; bring reef-safe sunscreen.
- 4Giovanni's Shrimp Truck
Indulge in classic garlic shrimp, a quintessential North Shore experience.
- 5Sunset Beach
Watch world-class surfers and enjoy a spectacular North Shore sunset.
Day 5 · East Oahu Coastal Drive & Tide Pools
- 1Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
Snorkel in this protected marine life conservation area; reservations often required.
- 2Halona Blowhole Lookout
Watch dramatic ocean geysers erupt from volcanic rock formations.
- 3Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail
Hike to the lighthouse for stunning coastal views and whale watching in season.
- 4Makapuʻu Tide Pools
Explore natural ocean pools at low tide, full of small marine animals (exercise caution).
Day 6 · Manōa Serenity & Local Eats
- 1Manoa Falls Trail
Hike through a lush rainforest to a beautiful 150-foot waterfall.
- 2Lyon Arboretum
Discover a stunning collection of tropical plants in a tranquil rainforest setting.
- 3Leonard's Bakery
Treat yourself to warm, fresh Malasadas, a local Portuguese-Hawaiian doughnut delicacy.
- 4Rainbow Drive-In
Experience a classic Hawaiian plate lunch institution, loved by locals for decades.
Day 7 · Kualoa Ranch & Polynesian Culture
- 1Kualoa Ranch Private Nature Reserve
Explore this stunning 'Jurassic Park' filming location with various tours and activities.
- 2Polynesian Cultural Center
Immerse yourself in the cultures of Polynesia through interactive exhibits and performances.
- 3Laie Point State Wayside
Enjoy picturesque coastal views and impressive sea arches (Puka Rock).
Day 8 · Leisurely Departure
- 1Ala Moana Center
Do some last-minute souvenir shopping or enjoy a meal at the world's largest open-air shopping center.
- 2Magic Island
Enjoy a final stroll, relax on the grass, or take in the views of Diamond Head and the Waikiki skyline.
- 3Kona 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.