Curator’s statement
My love for Hawai’i started when I was traveling here for work as a flight attendant. I was very blessed to get a paid vacation to paradise every week! Since then, the spirit of Aloha captured my heart, and now I must visit 2–3 times a year.
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Things to do in Honolulu
Catamaran cruise
If you love hiking and the most gorgeous views, Diamondhead Crater is a must! Super easy to get to, there is a shuttle bus (trolley) that stops all around Waikiki and takes you to the entrance. From there, you take an amazing hike to the top of the crater.
Of course, the famous Waikiki Beach is a given. There is no other place that makes you feel like Hawai’i, surfers riding the waves from sunrise to sunset.
If you love history and museums, Pearl Harbor is the top of the list. They offer a wonderful tour that is very informative.
If you are a yogi like me, you can enjoy yoga under the palms in the park next to the ocean. It doesn’t get any better than that to start your morning off right!
Hilton Hawaiian Village offers water sports in their lagoon. Perfect for families with shopping and plenty of dining all around, making for a lovely afternoon.
Speaking of shopping, Waikiki has the best—every store you can imagine, from budget-friendly to luxe high-end department stores.
If you love being out on the water, you can take catamarans out for whale watching, sunset dinners, you name it! Sailing departures throughout the day. It’s absolutely beautiful out on the water with the Honolulu skyline as your backdrop.
Places to eat & drink in Honolulu
Matsumoto Shave Ice
Waikiki Brewing Company: Great food and great service.
Duke’s: Delicious Hawaiian/American cuisine. Hula Pie for dessert is a must! Location is right on the sand.
Leonard’s Bakery: Malasadas to die for. Custard or chocolate-filled, mango or coconut… you will love them!
Barefoot Beach Cafe: Exactly as it sounds, the best poke bowls and Pineapple Whip ever.
Kona Brewing Co: A short drive away. Beautiful setting in the marina, delicious food, and our favorite, Fire Rock on tap.
Matsumoto Shave Ice: If you are headed to the North Shore (only about a 40 minute drive), this is one of the most famous spots on the island. Been around for over 70 years!
Need to know
Get ready to relax… Hawaiian style! Take a deep breath and really settle in to the spirit of Aloha. You will never want to leave.
The airport is about 15–20 minutes from Waikiki, making it a quick and easy Uber ride. There is no need for a car as so much is within walking distance.
If you want to explore the rest of the island, there are tours available that stop at coffee and pineapple plantations, waterfalls, and stunning beaches along the way. You might even see some turtles!
Travel Advisor
Christa Negrete
Christa Negrete
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Honolulu page.