C + J
Favorite Bites + Places
Ahi and Vegetable - Kapalama
This cozy spot offers a delightful mix of fresh seafood and Japanese-inspired dishes, with a tempting AYCE (All You Can Eat) option for those who want to really dig in! They’re open daily from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, so you can easily drop by whenever you’re in the mood for something delicious.
Nico's Kailua
This restaurant offers a delightful mix of fresh seafood, local favorites, and a range of mouthwatering appetizers. The cozy atmosphere, with a beautiful view of the Kawainui Canal, makes it the perfect place to unwind. If you’re planning a visit, Sundays are extra special—though it gets a little busy, the Prime Rib special is a must-try! They’re open Tuesday to Saturday from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM, and Sundays from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
Gen Korean BBQ House
Gen Korean BBQ House is located on the fourth floor of Ala Moana Center, and it's open daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Whether you're a BBQ enthusiast or just looking to try something new, you'll find a delicious variety of traditional Korean BBQ options in a cozy, modern setting. Plus, with plenty of parking available, getting here is a breeze!
Hy's Steak House
This restaurant is a renowned steakhouse located at 2440 Kūhiō Avenue in Honolulu, Hawaii, in the heart of Waikīkī. Situated just a short distance from Waikīkī Beach, it offers an elegant dining experience with a classic English-style interior. Their hours of operation are Sunday to Saturday from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm.
Marugame Udon
Marugame Udon is a cozy Japanese fast-casual spot known for its delicious, handcrafted hot and cold udon noodles, crispy tempura, and refreshing beverages. Located just a few blocks from Waikīkī Beach and right across from the International Marketplace, it’s the perfect place to stop by after a day of exploring. They’re open daily from 10:00 AM to 9:30 PM, so you can enjoy a tasty meal anytime!
Kokonuts Shave Ice & Snacks
Kokonuts Shave Ice & Snacks is a local favorite, serving classic Hawaiian shaved ice and other delicious treats. Located in the Koko Marina Center on the east side of Oahu, it's about a 20-minute drive from Waikīkī. Their acai bowls are truly the BEST and our favorite! And if you have a sweet tooth, don’t forget to add some mochi balls with your acai bowl.
Leonard's Bakery
The bakery’s famous malasadas are served fresh and hot, with a variety of flavors including classic sugar, cinnamon sugar, and delicious filled options like custard, chocolate, haupia (coconut), guava, and macadamia nut. Each bite gives you the perfect mix of a crispy outside and a soft, chewy inside. While the parking lot can get crowded, the mouthwatering malasadas make it all worthwhile. Our personal favorites? The plain malasada and the custard-filled one—absolutely unbeatable! They are open daily from 5:30 AM to 7:00 PM making it perfect for any short stop throughout the day.
Liliha Bakery
Nestled on North Kuakini Street, this cozy spot has a welcoming diner feel and is famous for its delicious local dishes. You can't go wrong with their iconic Coco Puffs—fluffy cream puffs filled with chocolate pudding and topped with a heavenly chantilly frosting. And don’t miss the buttery rolls, especially when you spread on their homemade raspberry jam! Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet or a comforting local dish like loco moco, Liliha Bakery has it all. It can get a little busy, and parking might be a challenge, but trust us, it’s totally worth the visit. They’re open every day from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Moonga Asian Bistro
Moonga Asian Bistro in Kaneohe is a lively spot that blends the flavors of Thai, Chinese, and Japanese cuisines into a delicious dining experience. Located at 46-018 Kamehameha Hwy, the bistro offers a diverse menu with favorites like Drunken Noodles, Pad Thai, General Tso’s Chicken, and creative sushi rolls such as the Playboy and Shrek rolls. With its modern and inviting atmosphere, it's the perfect place for both casual meals and special occasions. Check out their website for more information on hours of operations!
Hau Tree
The menu features fresh, locally sourced dishes, from delicious brunch options like eggs Benedict and avocado toast to fresh seafood dinners. If you’re lucky, you can catch a beautiful sunset while you enjoy your meal. It’s a great spot for both daytime and evening dining, and they even host live music and special events, so there’s always something exciting going on. Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, to make sure you get a spot in this popular beachside restaurant!Hau Tree Restaurant is open daily for brunch from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM (Monday–Thursday) or 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM (Friday–Sunday), dinner from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, and the bar from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM. They also offer happy hour (Pau Hana) Tuesday to Thursday from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM, with bar bites available from 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM.
Timmy T's Gourmet Grinders Sandwich Shop
A beloved local sandwich shop located in Old Kailua Town. This sandwich shop has become a go-to spot for both locals and visitors seeking fresh, flavorful sandwiches in a casual, friendly setting. We love their Hawaiian sweet roll bread and recommend trying the ‘Club Kailua’.
Sushiman
A favorite of ours! This locally owned sushi spot in Hawaii Kai Towne Center is known for its fresh, affordable Japanese eats and laid-back, family-friendly vibe. If you’re craving an ahi bowl, their Crunch Don is a must-try—it’s a spicy ahi bowl topped with crispy tempura flakes that add the perfect crunch.
Koa Pancake House
Koa Pancake House in Hawaii Kai is open daily from 6:30 AM to 2:00 PM. This cozy spot offers a variety of breakfast and lunch options, including their famous pancakes, omelets, and loco moco. Whether you're craving a hearty meal to start your day or a satisfying lunch, Koa Pancake House provides a welcoming atmosphere and delicious food to enjoy.
Rainbow Drive-In
Rainbow Drive-In is a beloved local gem in Honolulu, Hawaii, known for its comforting Hawaiian plate lunches like loco moco, BBQ beef, and their famous mix plate. Their slush float is a sweet, chilly treat that's perfect for cooling down on a sunny day. They're open every day from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily!
China Walls
This is where it all started—and it still feels just as special every time we come back. It’s not the best place to swim, especially when the waves are up, but if you’re on the East side, it’s one of the dreamiest spots to watch the sunset. Trust us, grab an açaí bowl from Kokonuts in Koko Marina on your way. It’s the perfect little pre-sunset treat!
Hanauma Bay Ridge Trail
This easy-to-moderate paved hike on O‘ahu’s East side is a favorite for good reason! It’s a beautiful way to start your day—especially if you’re up early enough to catch the sunrise. We recommend heading out in the morning or late afternoon if you plan on going, since there’s little to no shade and it can get pretty toasty once the sun’s high.
Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail
A scenic, paved 2-mile round-trip hike on Oahu’s southeastern coast, offering stunning views of the ocean, offshore islets, and the historic 1909 lighthouse. This trail is an easy-to-moderate walk suitable for most people. From November to May, it’s a great spot for whale watching, and you might also see seabirds soaring overhead. Early mornings or late afternoons are best to beat the heat, as there’s little shade. Free parking is available at the trailhead as well!
Lanikai Pillbox Trail
The Lanikai Pillbox Trail (Kaʻiwa Ridge) is a short but moderately steep hike on Oahu's east side, offering incredible views of Lanikai Beach and the Mokulua Islands. It’s about 0.9 miles round trip with a 500-foot elevation gain. The trail has no shade, so it’s best to go early in the morning—sunrise is especially popular—or later in the afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds. Although, parking is limited, so many hikers park at Kailua Beach Park and walk to the trailhead.
Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden
Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden is a beautiful 400-acre oasis in Kāneʻohe, Oʻahu, filled with lush tropical plants from places like Africa, Hawaii, and Polynesia. It also has a beautiful view of the Koolau mountains. It’s the perfect spot for a peaceful walk around the lake, a relaxing picnic, or even a fun nature walk or art workshop. You are able to drive around the botanical gardens to explore different areas! The garden is open every day from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and the best part is, it’s free to visit!
Mānoa Falls Trail
Manoa Falls is a breathtaking 150-foot waterfall tucked away in the lush Manoa Valley on Oʻahu. This easy to moderate hike to the falls is a lovely 1.6-mile journey through a tropical rainforest, where you’ll be surrounded by vibrant greenery, bamboo groves, and peaceful nature. At the end of the trail, you’re rewarded with the stunning sight of the waterfall cascading into a small pool below—it's truly a magical spot to soak in the beauty of Oʻahu’s natural landscape. We recommend you wear bug spray as there are a lot of mosquitoes!
Waimānalo Beach Park
Waimanalo Beach Park is a tranquil retreat on Oʻahu’s windward coast, boasting soft white sands, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and stunning views of the Koʻolau mountain range. The beach stretches for about 3 miles, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or peaceful strolls along the shore. Lined with ironwood trees that provide natural shade and cooled by refreshing ocean breezes, it’s a favorite spot for both locals and visitors looking for a more serene, unspoiled beach experience.
Kailua Beach Park
Kailua Beach Park is a gorgeous spot on Oʻahu’s windward side, known for its soft white sand and clear, calm waters. It’s perfect for water activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and windsurfing, and is also great for families with shallow, safe areas for kids. The park offers amazing sunrises and a chance to explore nearby Flat Island or the Mokulua Islands. You’ll find picnic tables, BBQ grills, volleyball courts, and restrooms to make your visit comfortable. It’s just a 30-minute drive from Waikīkī, and nearby you can also check out Lanikai Beach and the Lanikai Pillbox Hike. Just be aware, parking can fill up fast, especially on weekends!
Diamond Head Lookout
Diamond Head Lookout is a breathtaking spot on the southeastern coast of Oʻahu, just outside Waikīkī. Located along the rim of the iconic Diamond Head Crater (Lēʻahi), it offers sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, Honolulu’s skyline, and the coastline. It's a perfect place to catch both sunrises and sunsets, or simply enjoy a scenic lunch with a view.