Things To Do
The Haiku Stairs / Stairway to Heaven
This section is written by Kendall because I must emphasize with all my heart that this is an ADVANCED hike, and Ollie's enthusiasm for it cannot be trusted. If you have any health issues at all, are afraid of heights, or generally doubt your ability to walk all day in the heat, this hike is not for you. Many of you have probably heard the wonderful story of our first trip to Hawai'i together, where we did this hike. It was one of the most beautiful views I've ever seen, but I am no beginner hiker and I literally cried on the way down because I was so terrified (I also had nightmares). It took us 8 hours roundtrip. Another bonus point is that the stairs themselves are ILLEGAL. So you do the hike (which is legal and hard), and you "must not" touch the stairs themselves because it's a $1,000 fine. Ok! I have given the information and obligatory disclosures. Go forth and make your choices.
Diamond Head Crater Trailhead
Reservations are required! The trail is paved and should take ~1.5 hours round trip. Pro tip: you cannot enter the park after 5 PM so if you opt for the final reservation of the day, you MUST get there at 4. A similar hike but does not require reservations is the Makapuu Lighthouse Trail.
Surfing
Waikiki is a really popular destination to take surf lessons, and then catch a beginner wave. A lot of people actually end up standing on their first try here! If you're interested in just watching, take a drive to the North Shore. The Banzai Pipeline is a famous surf beach where the waves can get to over 30 feet! Pop a squat and watch the pros. If you're lucky, there might be a competition going on.
Snorkeling
There are a lot of fantastic places to see sea critters around the island but a really famous one is Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve. We haven't actually done the snorkeling here yet but we've heard it's dope. It's in a crater!
Kailua Beach
Just a lovely beach on the eastern side of the island! Usually a little less crowded, and less touristy. The drive is also gorgeous.
Whale Watching
'Tis the season for whale migration! They like to make appearances closer to shore in the early morning and by sunset. If you do a coastal hike during those times, you can see them from the shore. The boat tours should be lit too.
Eat Some Local Favorites
SPAM MUSUBI! - It's actually quite good. Give it a try. Poke is a must - We have a rule that we must have as much poke as possible when on the island. The link is to one of our favorite spots in Waikiki. Kona Coffee - All hawaiian coffee is great but really try to get some of that good good Kona Coffee. Pricey but totally worth it!