Quick Link to:
Transportation
- Rideshare: If you are looking for a convenient way to get around the island, using Lyft or Uber is an option.
- The Bus: For a better price, the local bus system on Oahu can take you pretty much everywhere you want to go. A one way fare will only run you a mere $2.50. It may take you longer to get from point A to point B but you will get to take in the sights, see how the locals get around, and maybe even get to have some great conversations with the friendly Hawaiians.
To-Do
There is so much to do in Honolulu it is just not possible to list everything. Here are a few things that we have gotten to experience there that were super fun!
- Waikiki: Although it is probably the most “touristy” area, this neighborhood is the place where all of the best shopping is located. Also you can find Waikiki beach here, but best avoid it unless you are looking for the most crowded beach.
- Parasailing: If you have never done it and are afraid to, please just do it!! It is such an amazing experience, and if you are afraid of heights, you will still love it! You do not even think about being up that high and you are totally secured in a harness, attached to the boat. It is not going to be like Jurassic Park, where you fly off the back of the boat and into a dinosaur infested land… We recommend Paradise Watersports. They were very professional, friendly, and made us feel at ease. They take some pretty great pictures of your experience that you can purchase (totally worth the money). There are different packages to chose from-if you want to be higher in the air as well as stay up there longer, taking in the beautiful views. The pricing is pretty steep considering it is only minutes of experience but it is so well worth it.
- Dole Plantation: The Pineapple is absolutely delicious and it is free admission to the plantation. If you are missing that Dole whip you didn’t get a chance to get at Disneyland, they have it here starting at $5.50.
- Snorkeling: We recommend Hanauma Bay for some great snorkeling. Keep in mind they are closed on Tuesdays so don’t schedule it for that day, but any other day you can venture on down to the picturesque waters for a swim. There is a great option to do the Hanauma Bay Snorkel Tour if you don’t want to find your own way there and are looking for a little structure. It is 4 1/2 hours long and it includes transportation to and from the Waikiki area and the fins and snorkel with complete instructions. It is only $25 so for us it was definitely worth it! Just a note-it does not include the $7.50 entrance fee to the park (kids 12 and under are FREE). If you do not wish to do the tour, the snorkel and fins are available for rent for $20.
- Pearl Harbor: This is definitely worth the time, especially if you are a history fanatic. Doors open at 7am and it is recommended to get there early to take advantage of the free admission, which are on a first come, first serve basis. If you want to plan ahead, you can visit recreation.gov and pay $1.5o fee to reserve tickets up to 2 months before your visit or from 7am local time the day before your visit. You would then pick up your reserved tickets at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center desk.
- Waikiki Aquarium: Admission is $12 for adults and although it is not the biggest aquarium we have ever been to, it is very cool and centrally located so you will not need the whole day to see everything here. The exhibits feature coral, Hawaiian fish, giant clams, ocean aquaculture, Hawaiian monk seals, and more.
- Diamond Head State Monument: If you’re looking for a moderately difficult hike with great views, definitely check out Diamond Head. It is a $1 admission if you are walking into the park and more if you are driving and parking.
Food
- Hula Grill Waikiki: One of our favorite places to eat, this restaurant has fresh seafood and a fantastic view! They are in the heart of Waikiki so it is in the center of everything.
- South Shore Grill: This taco shack has some pretty delicious tacos so it’s definitely worth a stop in for some lunch. 2 tacos with a drink came out to $12 and it was very quickly made.
- Island Vintage Shaved Ice: After eating lunch, make sure to stop by this shaved ice shop to get a tasty treat. There are many places that sell it but this is the best one in our opinion. It is such a refreshing treat on a hot day in Hawai’i.
- Magnolia Ice Cream: If you are looking for something a little creamer than shaved ice, you can get some ice cream from Magnolia.
- Leonard’s Bakery: This bakery is known around the island since 1952 for their delicious Malasadas, which is a Portuguese doughnut without a hole. They are absolutely delicious and would challenge any doughnut for being the best! They also have an assortment of fresh baked bread, cookies, cakes, pies, and various pastries.
- Zippy’s: This restaurant is one that you will be able to find pretty easy on the island of Oahu, as there are several locations for this Hawaiian chain restaurant. Although it is a chain, you should really not miss a visit. Think Hawaiian home cooking for this restaurant as their menu features a range of different items, with their famous chili being the most popular. If you are adventurous with food, you can try their oxtail soup or spam musubi.
