Honolulu-4-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Waikiki Beach

  • Morning: Arrive at Honolulu International Airport (HNL) and take a taxi or Uber to your hotel.
  • 10:00 AM: Check-in at the Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa, a historic hotel located on Kalākaua Avenue in Waikiki.
  • 11:30 AM: Head to Waikīkī Beach for some sun and fun. You can rent a beach umbrella or lounge chair and enjoy the warm sand and crystal-clear waters.
  • 1:00 PM: Grab lunch at The Crab Shack, a casual eatery serving fresh seafood and Hawaiian-style dishes.
  • 3:00 PM: Visit the Honolulu Zoo, home to over 100 species of animals, including monkeys, tigers, and sea lions.
  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Alan Wong’s Honolulu, a renowned restaurant offering contemporary Hawaiian cuisine.

Day 2: Pearl Harbor and Diamond Head

  • 8:00 AM: Start the day with breakfast at Koko Head Cafe, a popular spot for breakfast and brunch.
  • 9:30 AM: Take a ferry to Pearl Harbor, where you can visit the USS Arizona Memorial, the Pacific Aviation Museum, and other historic sites.
  • 12:00 PM: Grab lunch at The Beachhouse Restaurant, located on the beach in Waikiki.
  • 2:00 PM: Hike up Diamond Head State Monument, an iconic volcanic crater that offers breathtaking views of Honolulu and the ocean.
  • 5:00 PM: Visit the Waikīkī Aquarium, home to a diverse collection of marine life from around the world.

Day 3: North Shore

  • 9:00 AM: Drive to the North Shore (approximately 45 minutes), known for its famous surf beaches and lush scenery.
  • 10:30 AM: Visit the Dole Plantation, where you can take a tour of the pineapple fields and try some fresh pineapple treats.
  • 12:00 PM: Grab lunch at Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck, a popular food truck serving Hawaiian-style seafood dishes.
  • 2:00 PM: Explore the charming town of Haleiwa, with its surf shops, art galleries, and restaurants.
  • 5:00 PM: Visit the Sunset Beach, a beautiful spot to watch the sunset.

Day 4: Manoa Falls and Nuuanu Pali

  • 9:00 AM: Take a hike to Manoa Falls, a stunning 150-foot waterfall located in a lush tropical rainforest.
  • 11:30 AM: Visit the Nuuanu Pali State Park, which offers breathtaking views of the coastline, ocean, and surrounding landscape.
  • 1:00 PM: Grab lunch at The Pig and The Lady, a popular restaurant serving creative Vietnamese cuisine.
  • 3:00 PM: Return to your hotel for some relaxation time before departing.

Things to Know:

  • Be sure to pack light, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes for outdoor activities.
  • Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting sacred sites like Pearl Harbor and Diamond Head.
  • Try some of Hawaii’s famous fresh fruits, such as pineapples, papayas, and mangoes.

Transportation:

  • Taxi and Uber services are widely available in Honolulu.
  • You can also rent a car or take public transportation to get around the island.

Tips:

  • Book your hotel and restaurant reservations well in advance to avoid availability issues.
  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions, especially during peak tourist season.
  • Take advantage of free Wi-Fi at many hotels and restaurants to stay connected with friends and family back home.

Other Interests:

  • Visit the Bishop Museum, the largest museum in Hawaii, which offers a wealth of information on Hawaiian history and culture.
  • Attend a traditional Hawaiian hula dance performance or learn some basic hula moves yourself.
  • Take a surfing or paddleboarding lesson to experience the thrill of riding the waves.