Things To Do

Leonard's Malasada Mobile

If you have a sweet tooth, if you don't have a sweet tooth, doesn't matter. You need to try malasadas and if you're going to try malasadas, you might as well try the best. Leonards Malasadas has multiple locations, this one is probably the closest one to the wedding venue but if you’re out venturing closer to another location, be sure to hit them up. They are similar to donuts but a thousand times better.

Kailua/Lanikai Beach

This is the beach Jasmine grew up going to and the picture does it justice, but let's just say...#nofilter. This is the beach you want to visit if you're looking for relaxation or family fun--soft, clean sand; warm, calm, clear water.

Matsumoto Shave Ice

Shave ice is another must--again, it doesn't even matter if you like sweets, you HAVE to try shave ice. Matsumotos Shave Ice is a long-standing fav but there's hot competition in Haleiwa so wherever the line is shorter is probably fine...but we'll be waiting in line at Matsumotos...just saying. Oh, and we'll be getting li hing mui, coconut and lilikoi syrup on ours, but you do you ;P

Waimea Bay Beach

This was Jasmine's favorite beach growing up because of the big waves. There have been times we'd go to this beach and be unable to go in because the waves are TOO big, but this probably won't be a problem in May, since it goes flat in the summer months. Either way, this is a great beach option that is in Haleiwa and therefore, near the wedding venue. Oh, and once again...#nofilter

Waimea Falls

Practically across the street from Waimea Bay Beach is Waimea Valley/Waimea Falls. It’s one of those touristy things (ahem, you have to pay admission to go) but it's a nice place to go to get some true Hawaii vibes--local plants, trailers, a pretty waterfall...you get it.

Sandy Beach

When the waves are not at Waimea Bay Beach, they are at Sandy Beach--AKA Sandys--so this is prob your best bet for waves in May. We'll be on the North Shore for the wedding and this is the southern shore of Oahu but definitely worth the trip. Maybe even spend part of your trip on this side of the island. When Jasmine came to this end of the island with her family, they'd grab sub sandwiches from the local grocery store--Foodland to curb hunger while at the beach. While you're at Foodland, grab some tako (marinated octopus) and/or poke (marinated tuna sashimi), as well.

Hanauma Bay

Look at that picture... do you SEE all that coral reef?! Hit this place up to see the island ocean life in its true habitat. You have to pay to go here though--$25 per person (plus $3 for parking), but it really is amazing if you're interested in snorkeling. You can rent the snorkeling equipment too--$20 for a standard set. Note: Hanauma Bay is only open Wednesday to Sunday. Online reservations are required. They can be made two days in advance at 7AM Hawaii time and sell out FAST! They also sell a limited number day of in person walk in tickets when the park opens at 6:45AM. https://pros6.hnl.info/hanauma-bay

Pearl Harbor National Memorial

Reservations are released daily at 3 p.m. Hawaii time in two windows: 24-hours and 8-weeks in advance. https://www.recreation.gov/ticket/233338/ticket/16

Diamond Head Crater

If hiking is your thing, the Diamond Head Crater is a popular and safe option with beautiful views at the summit. Entry is $5 per person plus $10 for parking. Reservations are required (but not as difficult as Hanauma Bay or USS Arizona) and can be made online up to 30 days in advance. https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/parks/oahu/diamond-head-state-monument/

Nu‘uanu Pali

If you want to see this beautiful view in real life, go here... look out for chicken wandering around all willy nilly. The wind tunnel is an experience too.

Ala Moana Center

Oh my gawww, this mall was huge back in my day and now this place is MASSIVE. It has AAAALL the stores you could spend the entire day here and still not see all this shopping center has to offer. Some things you don't want to miss are the Hawaiian cultural performances they hold throughout the day, the food court has some nice local specialties and then there is everything else...look at a directory and do some googling before you go so you don't get overwhelmed.

Wet 'n' Wild Hawaii

Whether you're looking for a family activity or just something other than the beach to do, this water park is a lot of fun.

Haleiwa Joe's

The food and drinks are fantastic the ambiance is nicer, steakhouse vibe but nothing too stuffy. You can dress up or down and still feel comfortable here. They are known for their prime-rib which is HUGE, but I've been told they often sell out.

Dole Plantation

Waiahole Poi Factory

For the best authentic Hawaiian cuisine, this is the place to go. Its a VERY casual setting. Definitely a take-out restaurant where you'll see people eating from their trunk, but it's the best. My favorite is the pork laula, Ben really loves the kalua pig. I personally do not like poi, but the aside, everything is DELISH and true to Hawaiian food and culture. Enjoy!