Honolulu 6 Day Itinerary

Honolulu, Oahu - 6-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Waikiki Exploration

Morning

  • Arrival: Arrive at Honolulu International Airport. The airport is well-connected to the city via public transportation.
  • Check-in: Stay at a hotel in Waikiki, such as the Royal Hawaiian (Moana Surfr) for its historical charm and central location.

Afternoon

  • Visit Pearl Harbor and USS Arizona Memorial: Start your day with a visit to Pearl Harbor. Be sure to book tickets in advance for the USS Arizona Memorial.
  • Lunch: Head to Duke’s Waikiki, named after Duke Kahanamoku, one of Hawaii’s most famous sons and a surfing legend.

Evening

  • Sunset View: Enjoy your first sunset view on the beach or at an overlooking spot like Queen’s Surf Beach. It’s perfect for watching the sky turn pink.
  • Dinner: Try The Crab Pot at Fort DeRussy Park for some local seafood, especially crab and other fresh catches.

Tips:

  • Always book tickets in advance to avoid long queues.
  • Pack light clothes and comfortable shoes for your day’s activities.
  • Don’t forget sunscreen (at least SPF 30), a hat, and sunglasses.

Day 2: Diamond Head State Monument

Morning

  • Hike Up Diamond Head: Start your day with a hike up one of Hawaii’s most iconic landmarks. The trail is about 1.6 miles round trip.
  • Breakfast/Lunch: After the hike, head to nearby restaurants like Helena’s Hawaiian Food for some traditional Hawaiian dishes.

Afternoon

  • Visit Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve: This protected marine sanctuary is a perfect place for snorkeling and seeing an array of tropical fish.
  • Dinner: Consider dining at Alan Wong’s Honolulu. It offers modern Hawaiian cuisine with dishes made from local ingredients.

Day 3: North Shore Adventure

Morning

  • Visit Dole Plantation: Start your day by visiting the famous Dole Plantation for a Pineapple Express tour or to simply enjoy some pineapple treats.
  • Lunch: Head to nearby Haleiwa, a charming town on Oahu’s North Shore known for its local food and art scene.

Afternoon

  • Beach Time: Relax at one of the many beaches along the North Shore. Some popular spots include Pipeline Beach and Sunset Beach.
  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at one of Haleiwa’s restaurants, such as Giovanni Pastrami for good Italian food in a small town setting.

Day 4: Historical Honolulu

Morning

  • Visit Iolani Palace: This former palace was the seat of government during Hawaii’s monarchy. It now serves as a museum showcasing Hawaiian history.
  • Lunch: Grab lunch at the Palace itself or head back to Waikiki for some more local food.

Afternoon

  • Bishop Museum: Visit the largest museum in Hawaii, focusing on Hawaiian culture and the natural world.
  • Dinner: Head to The Pig and The Lady in Honolulu’s Chinatown district. It offers modern Vietnamese cuisine with a twist.

Day 5: Outdoor Activities

Morning

  • Snorkeling at Shark’s Cove: This spot is great for snorkeling, especially after rain when the water is clearer.
  • Breakfast/Lunch: Pack lunch and enjoy it at one of the beaches or head back to Waikiki for some local food.

Afternoon

  • Luau Experience: If you’re interested in traditional Hawaiian culture, consider attending a luau. It’s an excellent way to experience Hawaiian hospitality.
  • Evening: End your day with a sunset view and perhaps some live music at a beachside spot.

Day 6: Last Day

Morning

  • Last Minute Shopping: If you haven’t already, spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or exploring any last-minute sights.
  • Lunch: Enjoy your last meal in Honolulu. Consider trying something new or revisiting one of your favorite spots.

Afternoon

  • Departure: Make sure to check out from your hotel and head back to the airport for your departure flight.

Tips and Things to Know

  • Be respectful of Hawaiian culture and traditions.
  • Hawaii is a paradise for nature lovers, but also has many historical sites that are worth visiting.
  • Always drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated in the tropical sun.
  • Pack light layers as it can get cooler at night.

Transportation

  • Public Transport: Use public transportation or walk/bike whenever possible. If you prefer not to, there’s also an airport shuttle service that’s convenient for getting around Honolulu.
  • Car Rental: Consider renting a car if you want more flexibility to explore the island. Be aware of traffic and parking in Waikiki.

Where to Stay

  • Waikiki Accommodations: Stay in Waikiki for its central location, accessibility to public transportation, and wide range of accommodations from budget-friendly options like Hostels to luxury hotels.
  • Other Areas: Consider staying in other areas if you prefer a more local experience or want to be closer to specific attractions.

Safety

  • Always check the weather forecast before going out.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure.
  • Respect the marine sanctuary rules while snorkeling.