Honolulu-7-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Honolulu

  • Morning: Arrive at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) and take a taxi or Uber to your hotel
  • Afternoon: Check-in to the Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa, a historic hotel located on Waikiki Beach
  • Evening:
    • Head to Kalakaua Avenue, also known as “The Strip”, for dinner and people-watching. Try Helena’s Hawaiian Food, a local institution serving traditional dishes like laulau and kalua pig.
    • Take a sunset stroll along Waikiki Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world
  • Tips:
    • Be prepared for crowds and traffic on Kalakaua Avenue
    • Don’t forget sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun

Day 2: Pearl Harbor and USS Arizona Memorial

  • Morning: Take a taxi or drive to Pearl Harbor (about 30 minutes)
  • 9:00 AM: Visit the USS Arizona Memorial, a moving tribute to the lives lost during the attack on December 7, 1941
  • 12:00 PM: Have lunch at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, which offers a variety of food options
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the Pacific Aviation Museum, which showcases historic aircraft and shares stories of Pacific aviation history
    • Explore the USS Missouri Battleship Memorial Museum, where you can see the deck where Japan signed the surrender documents ending WWII
  • Evening: Head back to Waikiki for dinner at The Beachhouse Restaurant, offering oceanfront views and fresh seafood
  • Things to Know:
    • Book tickets to the USS Arizona Memorial in advance to avoid long wait times
    • Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking

Day 3: Diamond Head and Waikiki

  • Morning: Take a taxi or drive to Diamond Head State Monument (about 20 minutes)
  • 8:00 AM: Hike up the iconic volcano for stunning views of Honolulu and the ocean
  • 11:00 AM: Visit the Waikiki Aquarium, showcasing Hawaii’s marine life, including sharks, rays, and colorful fish
  • 12:00 PM: Have lunch at Ono Seafood, a popular spot for poke bowls and other local dishes
  • Afternoon:
    • Relax on Waikiki Beach or take a leisurely walk along the beachfront promenade
    • Visit the Royal Hawaiian Center, showcasing Hawaii’s history, art, and culture
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at The Pig and The Lady, serving creative Vietnamese cuisine

Day 4: North Shore

  • Morning: Drive to the North Shore (about 1 hour), famous for its surfing beaches and lush scenery
  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Dole Plantation, where you can take a tour of the pineapple fields and try some fresh pineapple treats
  • 12:00 PM: Have lunch at Kua ‘Aina, a local favorite serving burgers, sandwiches, and salads
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the famous surf spot, Sunset Beach, and watch the surfers in action
    • Stop by the Polynesian Cultural Center, showcasing the art, music, and dance of Pacific Island cultures
  • Evening: Head back to Waikiki for dinner at The Crab Shack, offering seafood and live music

Day 5: Nuuanu Pali and Tantalus

  • Morning: Drive to the Nuuanu Pali Lookout (about 45 minutes), offering breathtaking views of the coastline and valleys below
  • 9:00 AM: Take a short hike down to the lookout for stunning views of the ocean and surrounding landscape
  • 12:00 PM: Have lunch at The Tantalus Cafe, serving sandwiches, salads, and snacks with great views
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the Hawaii Pacific University Art Gallery, showcasing local art and culture
    • Explore the Kaka’ako Farmers Market, where you can find fresh produce, crafts, and street food
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at The Piggy Back Cafe, serving creative Hawaiian cuisine

Day 6: Luau and Hula Show

  • Morning: Drive to the Gertrude’s Luau (about 30 minutes), a popular spot for traditional Hawaiian cuisine and entertainment
  • 12:00 PM: Attend the luau, which includes a buffet lunch, live music, and a hula show featuring local dancers
  • Afternoon:
    • Learn about traditional Hawaiian crafts and art at the luau’s craft fair
    • Take part in a hands-on workshop to learn how to make traditional Hawaiian instruments or dance moves
  • Evening: End your trip with dinner at The Halekulani Hotel, offering upscale dining with stunning ocean views

Day 7: Departure

  • Morning: Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or exploring the local markets
  • Afternoon: Return to the airport and depart from Honolulu, bringing back memories of your amazing trip to Hawaii!