Things To Do

Places/Activities

Waikiki Shopping

The shopping area in Waikiki is a vibrant mix of luxury stores, local boutiques, and trendy shops. You can explore popular spots like the International Market Place or the Royal Hawaiian Center, both offering a variety of high-end brands, unique Hawaiian souvenirs, and delicious dining options. It’s the perfect place to shop, relax, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Diamond Head Crater Trailhead

The Diamond Head hike is a short 1.6-mile trail that takes you to the top of the famous crater, offering amazing views of Waikiki and the ocean. The hike is moderately easy, with some uphill sections, but nothing too challenging. Just be sure to make a reservation in advance, as they’re required to hike!

Surfing - Moniz Family Surf

We had an amazing time surfing with Moniz Family Surf! We went twice and had a blast each time, even though we’re still beginners. The instructors made it easy to enjoy, no matter our skill level. Whether you book with them or another surf school in Waikiki, we’re sure you’ll have a great time and catch some waves!

Kualoa Ranch (Jurassic Valley)

Whether you’re looking for a place to enjoy nature, explore the island on a horseback ride, or learn about the culture of Hawaii and its people, Kualoa Ranch has it all. It's also famous for its iconic filming locations from blockbuster movies like Jurassic Park, offering an unforgettable experience for movie fans and nature lovers alike. From scenic views to rich history, Kualoa Ranch is a must-visit destination on Oahu.

Ko Olina

Ko Olina Lagoon 1 is a beautiful, calm beach that's perfect for families. The protected lagoon has clear, shallow water, making it a safe and relaxing spot for all ages. It’s located right by the Disney Resort, offering a peaceful escape with stunning views.

Haleiwa

This cute beach town is one of our favorite places to visit while were in the North Shore! From its renowned beaches and local cuisine to shops, activities, accommodations, and so much more. Make sure to stop by our favorite food truck, Haleiwa No.7!

Polynesian Cultural Center

The Polynesian Cultural Center is a fun and educational spot where you can explore the cultures of the Pacific Islands like Hawaii, Fiji, and Samoa. It’s perfect for families, with interactive exhibits, live performances, and activities for all ages. We loved it when we went—it was such a memorable experience!

Kailua Beach Park

Kailua Beach Park is a stunning spot with soft sand, clear blue water, and plenty of space to relax or enjoy water activities. It's where we had one of our favorite dates, and it’s perfect for a peaceful day at the beach with beautiful views.

Waimea Valley

Waimea Valley is a gorgeous spot on Oahu, known for its lush gardens, peaceful hiking trails, and the stunning Waimea Falls. As a plant lover, I especially enjoyed the incredible variety of tropical plants along the trails. We loved our visit—it's a relaxing, beautiful place to explore, and the waterfall at the end of the hike is the perfect reward. It’s great for families and nature lovers alike!

Waimea Bay Beach

Waimea Bay is our favorite beach on the island—it’s simply breathtaking. The crystal-clear water, golden sand, and dramatic cliffs make it the perfect place to relax and enjoy Oahu’s beauty. In September, the waves are usually calmer, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling. However, do keep in mind that parking can be limited, especially during peak times, so it’s a good idea to arrive early or be prepared to park a little farther away. But once you’re there, the stunning views are well worth it!

Food Recommendations

Tsurutontan Waikiki

Tsurutontan is our favorite udon restaurant in Hawaii! The noodles are super fresh, and the broths are full of flavor. They have a great variety of dishes, so there’s something for everyone. The atmosphere is cozy, and we always enjoy our meals there. We definitely recommend it if you're in the mood for great udon!

Marugame Udon

Marugame Udon is a famous spot in Hawaii, loved by both tourists and locals for its delicious, freshly made udon noodles and customizable toppings like tempura and tofu. It's also very affordable, offering a satisfying meal without the high price tag. Just be ready for long lines, especially during peak times, but it’s definitely worth the wait!

Maguro Brothers Hawaii Waikiki

Maguro Brothers is a must-visit spot for fresh, high-quality poke and sushi on Oahu. Known for their delicious tuna bowls and variety of fresh fish, it’s a great place to enjoy a simple, yet flavorful meal. Whether you're grabbing something to go or enjoying it on-site, it’s a favorite for seafood lovers!

Island Vintage Shave Ice

Island Vintage Shave Ice has our favorite shave ice on the island. The natural flavors make it extra special, and we recommend adding condensed milk and mochi! It's also right near the hotels in Waikiki, so it's an easy stop whenever you're craving a sweet treat.

Matcha Cafe Maiko

Even though we have this in Philly, it's still the best Matcha, in my opinion!

SKY Waikiki Raw & Bar

Sky Waikiki is a stylish rooftop bar offering stunning views of Waikiki and the ocean. With a relaxed atmosphere, it's the perfect spot to enjoy craft cocktails, small bites, and breathtaking sunsets. Whether you're looking to unwind or enjoy a night out, Sky Waikiki is a popular destination for both locals and visitors.

Leonard's Bakery

Leonard's Bakery is famous for its delicious malasadas—Portuguese donuts filled with sweet, fluffy goodness. The warm, sugar-coated treats are a must-try, and they also offer other tasty pastries. Leonard's has a few locations around the island, making it easy to grab a fresh malasada wherever you are! It's a local favorite and a perfect stop for a sweet treat.

Zippy's

Zippy’s is a local favorite with locations all over the island, known for its delicious comfort food served any time of day. With its classic diner vibes, it’s the perfect spot for a casual meal, whether you're craving breakfast, lunch, or dinner. We highly recommend trying the Zip Pac—it’s a great combination of flavors and one of their signature dishes!

Haleiwa No7 Food Truck

Haleiwa No7 is our favorite food truck, and we stop here every time we're in the North Shore. They have the best poke, plus other delicious Japanese dishes like rice bowls and katsu. It's always fresh and tasty, and we highly recommend it!

The Sunrise Shack

Sunrise Shack serves up some of the best acai bowls and smoothies on the island, and it’s definitely one of our favorites! They’ve got a few locations, including one in Waikiki, but the original, iconic shack is on the North Shore. If you’re looking for a refreshing, healthy treat, it’s a must-try stop while you’re in the area.

North Shore Tacos at Sharks Cove

We make it a point to stop at the North Shore Taco Truck every time we're in the area. Their fish tacos are a personal favorite and always incredibly fresh and flavorful. It's the perfect casual spot to grab a bite while enjoying the laid-back vibe of the North Shore. Whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch or a snack after the beach, we highly recommend giving it a try!