Things To Do
Pearl Harbor Visitor Center
This one truly needs no explanation. A must visit, a moving experience full of history. Tickets can be purchased directly at the visitor center, online, or there are many tour guide options via Trip Advisor that provide transportation to and from Waikiki/hotels and a guaranteed ferry pass to the USS Arizona Memorial. These passes tend to sell out when directly purchased at the visitor center so it is recommend arriving early or buying ahead of time online.
Lanikai Pillbox Hike
This is a beautiful hike that can be completed in an hour or so on the east side of the island. It gives beautiful views of the Mokes Islands and the sea cliffs surrounding the east side of the island.
Koko Head Trailhead
This hike is considered a more challenging hike but the views are well worth the sweat!! The 1,000+ step walking track consists of abandoned railroad ties that run along the crater's west side to the top of Koko Crater. The military used them previously during World War 2 as part of an incline tram to transport supplies to a lookout post at the summit. At the top, you'll find a panoramic view of the East and South portions of the island.
Sharks Cove- Snorkeling
This snorkeling hot spot is one of Jake's favorites. He lived just a few miles from here when he was stationed on Oahu. Sharks Cove is a popular place to see sea turtles while out in the water! Snorkeling equipment can be rented on site. The cove is directly across from the Foodland in Pupakea, and there is plenty of street parking. It is also conveniently located across from some amazing food trucks- Sydney's favorite Aji Limo for poke!
Kaneohe Klipper Golf Course
For guests who are military members this is an excellent golf course located on the Marine Corps Base.
Turtle Bay Golf
Turtle Bay Resort has so many amazing amenities and restaurants to offer on the beautiful North Shore including this incredible golf course. Sydney and Jake have played this course a handful of times and highly recommend it! If you decide to play here, they recommend stopping by Lei Lei's Bar & Grill for a refreshment before hitting the course (or Irish Coffee- Jake's Favorite).
Dole Plantation
We recommend hitting the Dole Plantation right at opening to avoid large crowds. Although Jake and Sydney readily skip all of the attractions and head straight for the famous Dole Whip (a must have) the Dole Plantation has an awesome gift store with everything pineapple! There is no shame in Dole whip for breakfast.. Jake and Syd actually encourage it!
Surfing Lessons
Surfing lessons can be found along the shores of Waikiki as well as the North Shore. This is a great way to try out the islands favorite past time!
Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman
Where it all began!! The spot Jake and Sydney had their very first date! Every single item at this joint is incredible. They are world famous for their Mai Thai, it is a must try!! They also well known for their coconut and banana cream pies for dessert! Additionally, it is located in Ko'Olina which is a great spot to walk around and shop, golf, and visit the lagoons.
Haleiwa Seafood & Grill (food truck)
One of Sydney's favorite spots to eat on the entire island is the Haleiwa Seafood truck, the Ahi Katsu is a must try!
Doraku Sushi Kaka'ako
One of Jake and Sydney's first dates took place here (and where Sydney *hesitantly* tried sushi and loved it) and has since become one of their favorite spots to grab sushi! It is located in the heart of the Waikiki strip. Jake's favorite- God of Fire Roll Sydney's Favorite- Peppered Ahi Roll
The Sunrise Shack
You will find there are many places to grab an acai bowl on the island but Sunrise Shack is in the couples top three spots! With many locations on island it shouldn't be hard to grab one no matter where you are staying!
Crispy Grindz Haleiwa
Another awesome option for acai bowls, also in the couples top 3 acai bowl spots!
Haleiwa Joe's
A great spot to grab dinner! They don't take reservations so prepare accordingly. We recommend the crab dip!!
Island Snow Hawaii
Our favorite place to get Hawaiian shaved ice! If they ask you if you want a snow cap say yes!! Trust us its the best part :)
Green World Coffee Farm
For the coffee fanatics this is a place well worth stopping! Sydney would frequent this coffee farm to buy grounds to take home to her family. They have a cute cafe and a wonderful store to purchase coffee grounds/beans.
Coffee Gallery
One of Sydney's favorite places to get coffee on the North Shore. They make their lattes with homemade syrups sourced from ingredients on the island. Additionally they always have a great selection of fresh baked pastries and quiches!