OAHU, HAWAII
Oahu, known as “The Gathering Place,” is the vibrant heart of Hawaii. This island blends the energy of a bustling city with the serenity of beautiful beaches and lush landscapes. In Honolulu, you’ll find iconic sites like Waikiki Beach and the historic Pearl Harbor. Venture beyond the city, and you can hike the scenic trails of Diamond Head or surf the legendary North Shore waves. Oahu’s diverse culture, rich history, and natural beauty offer something for every traveler, making it a perfect destination for both adventure and relaxation.
HOTELS
Affordable Hotels
Luana Waikiki Hotel & Suites
Luana Waikiki Hotel & Suites, located just a short walk from Waikiki Beach in Honolulu, offers a comfortable and convenient stay for travelers looking to explore the vibrant area. The hotel combines modern amenities with Hawaiian-inspired decor, creating a relaxing atmosphere for both short and extended stays. With its central location, guests have easy access to shopping, dining, and the many attractions that Waikiki has to offer.
Accommodations at Luana Waikiki range from cozy studios to spacious one-bedroom suites, many of which feature kitchenettes or full kitchens, making it ideal for families and longer stays. Each room includes a private balcony, offering views of the city, park, or ocean. The hotel also features an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a complimentary shuttle service to nearby locations, enhancing your stay.
Luana Waikiki Hotel & Suites is perfect for travelers who want a blend of comfort, convenience, and value in a prime Waikiki location. Whether you’re exploring the nearby Ala Moana Center, relaxing on the beach, or enjoying the local dining scene, this hotel provides a great base for your Hawaiian vacation. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons.
The Twin Fin Hotel
The Twin Fin Hotel, located on the iconic Kalakaua Avenue in Waikiki, Honolulu, offers a vibrant and modern stay just steps away from Waikiki Beach. Formerly known as the Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel, The Twin Fin blends contemporary style with a laid-back surf culture vibe, making it a popular choice for both families and solo travelers looking to experience the best of Waikiki.
The hotel features a variety of rooms and suites, many with private lanais that provide stunning views of the Pacific Ocean or Diamond Head. Rooms are designed with a fresh, beach-inspired decor, ensuring a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere. The Twin Fin also offers convenient amenities, including an outdoor pool, fitness center, and on-site dining options, such as Tiki’s Grill & Bar, where you can enjoy Hawaiian-inspired cuisine with ocean views.
The Twin Fin Hotel is ideal for travelers seeking a fun and lively stay in the heart of Waikiki. Its prime location allows easy access to the beach, shopping, dining, and nightlife that Waikiki is famous for. Whether you’re catching waves, exploring local attractions, or simply soaking up the sun, The Twin Fin provides the perfect base for your Hawaiian adventure. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak seasons.
Luxury Resorts
The Ritz-Carlton Residences
The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach, offers a luxurious and refined experience in the heart of Honolulu. Located just a short walk from the iconic Waikiki Beach, these upscale residences combine the comforts of home with the impeccable service and amenities of The Ritz-Carlton brand. The sleek, modern design of the residences, paired with stunning ocean views, makes it a premier destination for those seeking an elevated stay in Waikiki.
Accommodations at The Ritz-Carlton Residences range from stylish studios to expansive multi-bedroom suites, all featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, gourmet kitchens, and spacious lanais that offer panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities, including two infinity pools, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a full-service spa. Dining options are exceptional, with restaurants like Sushi Sho, known for its exquisite Japanese cuisine, and La Vie, offering modern French fare.
Ideal for both short-term and extended stays, The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach, caters to travelers who value privacy, luxury, and convenience. Its central location provides easy access to Waikiki’s world-class shopping, dining, and attractions, while the serene ambiance and top-tier services ensure a peaceful retreat after a day of exploration.
Four Seasons Resort Oahu
Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina is a luxurious oceanfront retreat located on Oahu’s western coast, within the exclusive Ko Olina Resort community. This resort offers a perfect blend of relaxation and elegance, with stunning views, world-class amenities, and impeccable service. The serene setting makes it an ideal choice for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle while still enjoying the beauty of Hawaii.
Accommodations range from spacious guest rooms to opulent suites, all featuring modern Hawaiian decor, private lanais, and breathtaking views of the ocean, mountains, or gardens. Dining options are diverse, with Mina’s Fish House offering fresh, locally sourced seafood and Noe serving exquisite Italian cuisine with a Hawaiian twist. The resort’s activities include snorkeling in a private lagoon, lounging by the infinity pool, and indulging in treatments at the Naupaka Spa & Wellness Centre.
Perfect for couples, families, and those seeking a luxurious escape, Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina provides an unforgettable Hawaiian experience. The combination of beautiful surroundings and the renowned service of the Four Seasons brand ensures a memorable stay. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons.
The Laylow, Autograph Collection
The Laylow, Autograph Collection, is a chic, mid-century modern hotel located in the heart of Waikiki, Honolulu. Combining vintage Hawaiian charm with contemporary style, The Laylow offers a unique and stylish retreat just steps away from the vibrant energy of Waikiki Beach and its surrounding attractions. The hotel’s laid-back atmosphere, coupled with its trendy design, makes it a popular choice for both leisure travelers and those seeking a hip, urban escape.
Accommodations at The Laylow feature retro-inspired decor with modern amenities, including private lanais, plush bedding, and spacious bathrooms. The hotel’s centerpiece is its lush open-air lanai, where guests can relax by the saltwater pool, enjoy handcrafted cocktails, and savor island-inspired cuisine at the hotel’s signature restaurant, Hideout. The ambiance is further enhanced by nightly live music and the surrounding tropical greenery.
Ideal for travelers looking to experience the best of Waikiki in a cool, contemporary setting, The Laylow, Autograph Collection, offers a refreshing take on Hawaiian hospitality. With its central location, guests have easy access to Waikiki’s famous beaches, shopping, dining, and nightlife, all while enjoying the unique vibe that The Laylow provides.
Activities
Shark Cage Diving in Oahu
Shark cage diving in Oahu offers an adrenaline-pumping adventure that lets you get up close and personal with some of the ocean’s most fascinating predators. Located off the North Shore of Oahu, these tours provide a unique opportunity to safely observe sharks in their natural habitat. As you descend into the cage, you’ll be surrounded by clear blue waters where you can watch Galapagos sharks, sandbar sharks, and sometimes even tiger sharks swimming just inches away.
The experience typically lasts about 2 to 3 hours, including a boat ride to the dive site, where you’ll receive a safety briefing and gear. No scuba certification is required, as you remain at the water’s surface, breathing through a snorkel while the cage keeps you secure. The thrill of seeing these majestic creatures up close, combined with the stunning views of Oahu’s coastline, makes this a must-do for adventure seekers.
Shark cage diving in Oahu is perfect for those looking for a thrilling and memorable experience. It’s an exciting way to learn about marine life and gain a new perspective on sharks, often misunderstood but vital to the ocean’s ecosystem. Due to the popularity of this adventure, booking in advance is highly recommended.
Polynesian Cultural Center
The Polynesian Cultural Center in Oahu, Hawaii, is a premier destination for experiencing the rich cultures of the Pacific Islands. Located on the North Shore of Oahu, this expansive cultural park offers visitors an immersive journey through the traditions, arts, and customs of Polynesia, including Hawaii, Samoa, Fiji, Tahiti, Tonga, and Aotearoa (New Zealand). The center is designed to provide an authentic and interactive experience, making it a must-visit for those interested in learning more about Polynesian heritage.
Throughout the day, visitors can explore six distinct villages, each representing a different Polynesian culture. In these villages, you can participate in traditional activities like coconut husking, fire-making, hula dancing, and outrigger canoeing. The center also features a lively marketplace, where you can shop for handmade crafts and enjoy local delicacies. As the sun sets, the experience culminates in the award-winning evening show, “Hā: Breath of Life,” a spectacular performance that combines music, dance, and storytelling to celebrate the Polynesian spirit.
Ideal for families, cultural enthusiasts, and anyone looking to gain a deeper understanding of the Pacific Islands, the Polynesian Cultural Center offers a full day of entertainment and education. Whether you’re participating in hands-on activities or simply enjoying the vibrant atmosphere, the center provides a memorable and enriching experience. Due to its popularity, purchasing tickets in advance is recommended, especially for the evening show and the popular luau dinner experience.
Oahu Dolphin Watching and Snorkeling Tour
An Oahu Dolphin Watching and Snorkeling Tour offers a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty and marine life of Hawaii. Departing from the western or southern coasts of Oahu, these tours provide the opportunity to observe playful dolphins in their natural habitat, often including Hawaiian spinner dolphins known for their acrobatic displays. As you cruise along the coast, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the island’s landscape while learning about the local marine ecosystem from knowledgeable guides.
The tour typically includes a stop at a prime snorkeling spot, where you can dive into the crystal-clear waters to explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, sea turtles, and other marine life. Snorkeling gear is usually provided, and some tours even offer the chance to swim alongside the dolphins, making the experience even more memorable.
Ideal for families, couples, and anyone who loves the ocean, the Oahu Dolphin Watching and Snorkeling Tour combines the excitement of wildlife observation with the relaxation of snorkeling in Hawaii’s beautiful waters. To ensure a spot on this popular excursion, it’s a good idea to book your tour in advance.
Oahu Submarine Adventure
The Oahu Submarine Adventure offers a unique and exciting way to explore the underwater world of Hawaii without getting wet. This tour takes you aboard a state-of-the-art submarine, where you’ll descend to depths of up to 100 feet below the surface to discover the vibrant marine life and stunning coral reefs that surround the island. As you cruise along the ocean floor, large viewing windows provide an up-close view of colorful tropical fish, sea turtles, and other fascinating marine creatures.
The submarine tour typically lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours, including the boat ride to and from the dive site. The experience is both educational and thrilling, with knowledgeable guides on board to share interesting facts about the underwater ecosystem and the history of the area. The tour often passes by shipwrecks and artificial reefs, adding to the adventure and giving you a glimpse of the diverse habitats that exist just off Oahu’s coast.
The Oahu Submarine Adventure is perfect for families, couples, and anyone looking for a unique way to experience Hawaii’s underwater beauty. It’s an ideal activity for those who may not be comfortable snorkeling or diving but still want to see the incredible marine life that the island has to offer. Due to its popularity, booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Dive with Manta Rays
Diving with Manta Rays in Oahu offers a thrilling and unforgettable underwater experience. These gentle giants, with wingspans reaching up to 16 feet, are known for their graceful movements as they glide through the ocean. This unique dive typically takes place at night, when the manta rays come out to feed on plankton, which are attracted to the lights set up by the dive guides. The experience of seeing these magnificent creatures up close, illuminated against the dark ocean, is nothing short of magical.
The dive usually lasts about 1 to 2 hours, including the briefing and the dive itself. It’s suitable for both certified divers and snorkelers, as the manta rays often swim close to the surface. The dive guides are experienced and knowledgeable, ensuring your safety while enhancing your experience with interesting facts about manta rays and the marine environment. For those who are snorkeling, you’ll float on the surface, holding onto a raft or a light board, while the manta rays perform their mesmerizing ballet below.
Ideal for adventure seekers and marine life enthusiasts, the Manta Ray Dive in Oahu offers a rare opportunity to encounter these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. It’s an experience that leaves a lasting impression, combining the thrill of diving with the awe of observing one of the ocean’s most fascinating animals. Due to the specific conditions required for this dive, booking in advance is essential to secure your spot on this popular adventure.
RESTAURANTS
Alan Wong’s Honolulu
Alan Wong’s Honolulu is a celebrated restaurant that has played a significant role in defining Hawaii’s modern culinary scene. Located in the heart of Honolulu, this upscale dining establishment is known for its innovative fusion of Hawaiian and Asian flavors, masterfully crafted by Chef Alan Wong, one of Hawaii’s most renowned chefs. The restaurant offers a refined yet welcoming atmosphere, making it a top choice for both locals and visitors looking for a memorable dining experience.
The menu at Alan Wong’s Honolulu showcases the best of Hawaii’s local ingredients, including fresh seafood, farm-to-table produce, and unique regional specialties. Signature dishes often include items like the famous “Ginger-Crusted Onaga” (long-tail red snapper) and “Poke-Pines,” a playful take on traditional poke served in a crispy cone. The presentation of each dish reflects both artistry and a deep respect for the flavors of the islands. The restaurant also features an extensive wine list, carefully curated to complement the diverse menu.
Alan Wong’s Honolulu is perfect for food enthusiasts, couples, and anyone looking to experience the pinnacle of Hawaiian cuisine. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a night of fine dining, this restaurant promises an unforgettable culinary journey. Due to its popularity, reservations are highly recommended, particularly for dinner.
La Mer
La Mer, located at the Halekulani Hotel in Waikiki, is one of Hawaii’s most prestigious dining establishments, offering an exquisite fine dining experience with stunning ocean views. This award-winning restaurant specializes in French cuisine with a subtle Hawaiian twist, reflecting the flavors and ingredients of the islands while maintaining the elegance and precision of classic French culinary techniques. The setting at La Mer is both luxurious and romantic, with its open-air dining room overlooking the Pacific Ocean, making it an ideal spot for a special evening.
The menu at La Mer is a testament to refined taste and creativity, featuring dishes crafted from the finest local and imported ingredients. Signature offerings might include selections like the “Foie Gras with Pineapple Chutney” or the “Maine Lobster with Lilikoi Butter,” each prepared with the utmost care and presented with artistic flair. The restaurant also boasts an extensive wine list, with selections from around the world, expertly chosen to pair with the menu’s offerings.
La Mer is perfect for those seeking an exceptional dining experience in Waikiki, whether for a romantic dinner, a celebration, or simply an indulgent night out. The impeccable service, combined with the restaurant’s sophisticated ambiance and world-class cuisine, ensures a memorable experience. Due to its exclusivity and popularity, reservations are essential, especially for prime dining times.
53 By The Sea
53 By The Sea is a premier fine dining restaurant in Honolulu, offering a luxurious experience with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the iconic Diamond Head. Located on the waterfront, just minutes from Waikiki, the restaurant is known for its stunning architecture, elegant ambiance, and menu that beautifully blends Italian and Mediterranean flavors with a touch of island influence. The grand staircase, high ceilings, and floor-to-ceiling windows create a sophisticated setting that’s perfect for special occasions.
The menu at 53 By The Sea features a variety of meticulously prepared dishes, emphasizing fresh, local ingredients and high-quality seafood. Signature dishes might include options like seared scallops, wagyu beef, and house-made pasta, all presented with an artistic flair. The restaurant also offers an extensive wine list and handcrafted cocktails, designed to complement the flavors of the menu and enhance the dining experience.
53 By The Sea is ideal for couples, celebrations, or anyone looking to enjoy a memorable dining experience in Honolulu. The combination of exquisite cuisine, impeccable service, and breathtaking views makes it a standout destination for fine dining. Reservations are highly recommended, especially for sunset dining, to fully enjoy the stunning ocean views that the restaurant is famous for.
Marugame Udon
Marugame Udon in Waikiki is a popular and casual dining spot known for its authentic, freshly made udon noodles and tempura. Located on Kuhio Avenue, this fast-casual restaurant offers a unique dining experience where guests can watch as skilled chefs prepare the udon noodles right in front of them, ensuring each bowl is fresh and full of flavor. The restaurant’s efficient, cafeteria-style setup allows diners to customize their meals by choosing from a variety of udon dishes and an array of tempura and side options.
The menu at Marugame Udon features a range of udon noodle dishes, from traditional favorites like Beef Udon and Kake Udon to more unique offerings such as Curry Udon. Guests can also add toppings like soft-boiled eggs, green onions, and tempura flakes to enhance their meal. The tempura selection is another highlight, with crispy, golden-brown options like shrimp, vegetables, and chicken that perfectly complement the udon.
Marugame Udon is perfect for anyone looking for a quick, delicious, and affordable meal in Waikiki. The restaurant’s popularity often results in lines, but the fast-moving service ensures you won’t wait long to enjoy your meal. Whether you’re grabbing a bite after a day at the beach or looking for a casual dinner, Marugame Udon offers a satisfying and authentic taste of Japanese cuisine in a friendly, laid-back atmosphere.
Senia
Senia, located in Chinatown, Honolulu, is a critically acclaimed restaurant that offers a refined dining experience blending contemporary American cuisine with local Hawaiian ingredients. Co-founded by chefs Chris Kajioka and Anthony Rush, Senia has quickly become one of Honolulu’s most celebrated dining destinations, known for its inventive dishes and meticulous attention to detail. The restaurant’s atmosphere is both sophisticated and welcoming, with an open kitchen design that allows diners to watch the culinary team in action.
The menu at Senia features a range of dishes that showcase the chefs’ creativity and commitment to using the finest local ingredients. Options might include dishes like the signature “Mosaic of Pig’s Head,” house-made pastas, or the “Smoked Ahi Toast.” For those seeking a truly immersive experience, Senia offers a Chef’s Counter tasting menu, where diners can enjoy a multi-course meal that highlights the best of what the kitchen has to offer. Each dish is thoughtfully paired with selections from the restaurant’s extensive wine list.
Senia is perfect for food enthusiasts, couples, or anyone looking to experience innovative cuisine in a stylish setting. Whether you’re enjoying the à la carte menu in the main dining room or opting for the Chef’s Counter, Senia provides a memorable culinary journey. Due to its popularity and the intimate nature of the space, reservations are highly recommended, particularly for the Chef’s Counter experience.