The island of Hawaii offers amazing clear waters and the best surfing spots in the country. This captivating island is not only for surfers and divers, hikers, food lovers, and sight seekers are more than welcome too. My husband and I were fortunate to explore Oahu when the travel ban was lifted. I have here a list of the places and foods we loved during our stay. Let’s go!
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Travel Tips
- For flights, Skyscanner is excellent for comparing the best airline deals.
- For accommodations, our family trusts Booking.com for reasonable prices.
- Organize your trips easily with a Travel Planner.
- For tried-and-true travel and hiking gear, check out our Amazon Storefront.
Hawaii Itinerary March 26 - April 1
We were able to book cheap flight tickets to Oahu, Hawaii with Skyscanner. This is the platform where I compare prices from different airlines. For our accommodation, I've always relied on Booking.com to give us affordable deals on our stays. It's easier to maneuver their sites when it comes to location, nearby attractions, and activities. Also, most of our activities were booked with Groupon, which provides the best deals in town.
First Day in Honolulu
March 26, Flight, Check-in Hotel and Groceries
Flight: Hawaiian Airlines: Los Angeles to Honolulu
6 hours and 30 minutes
Price: 598 USD for two-person
Daniel K. Inouye International Airport to Ohia Waikiki Studio: 20-30 minutes
Lyft ride: 35-45 USD
Address: 2280 Kuhio Avenue, Waikiki, Honolulu, HI 96815, United States
March 26 - 29, 4 days 3 nights
330 USD
Our studio has a balcony, stovetop, and a kitchen. Make sure to request ahead of time for a microwave, frying pan, and utensils. The suite has a great location but the service is average and you can hear the noise from the street. Breakfast is not included and most restaurants open late so we decided to get some groceries.
For groceries, 2 options: Across the street from Ohia Waikiki Suites are two small grocery stores
- Dukes Lane Market and Eatery
- ABC Store
Pork Adobo and Loco Moco at Dukes Lane Market and Eatery
Dukes Lane Market and Eatery
- Loco Moco
- Pork Adobo
- Salt and Vinegar Chicken Wings
Marukame Udon Waikiki
1 minute walk away from Ohia Waikiki Studio
Address: 2310 Kūhiō Ave. #124, Honolulu, HI 96815
Dinner: 22 USD for two persons
Waikiki Beach
Second Day
March 27, Chill Day, Food Trip and Explore the beach
Beaches nearby:
- Ohia Waikiki Studio to Waikiki Beach: 10 minutes walk
- Ohia Waikiki Studio to Hilton Lagoon and Kahanamoku Beach: 25 minutes walk or 7 minutes by car
Hikes nearby:
- Ohia Waikiki Studio to Diamond Head: 15 minutes by car
- Ohia Waikiki Studio to Nu'uanu Pali Lookout: 20 minutes by car
Nearby Malls:
- Ohia Waikiki Studio to International Market Place: 4 mins walk
- Ohia Waikiki Studio to Royal Hawaiian Center: 6 mins walk
- Ohia Waikiki Studio to Waikiki Beach Walk: 10 mins walk
International Market Place
Address: 2330 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815
Royal Hawaiian Center
Address: 2201 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815
Waikiki Beach Walk
Address: 227 Lewers St, Honolulu, HI 96815
Famous Foods to Try
1. Leonard's Bakery, 30 30-minute walk or 7 minutes by car from Ohia Waikiki Studio
Address: 933 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816
1 dozen malasadas puff and two malasadas: 25 USD
2. Ono Seafood, 28 minutes walk or 6 minutes by car from Ohia Waikiki Studio
Address: 747 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816
Two poke bowls with drinks: 20 USD
3. Kono's Northshore, 1 minute away from Ohia Waikiki Studio
Address: 2310 Kuhio Avenue #1-A, Honolulu, HI 96815
Two sandwiches and a smoothie: 40 USD
4. Paia Fish Market, across the street from Ohia Waikiki Studio
Address: 2299 Kūhiō Ave., Honolulu, HI 96815
Two fish plates: 45 USD
Also check out: Must-try Foods in Oahu, Hawaii
Third-Day: Full-Day 16 Location Island Tour
- Including Snorkeling, Tour Guide, Snacks, and Beverages with Grand Tours Around the Island
- Price: 60 USD per person
- We purchased our Island Tour with GROUPON.
- Free Pick up and Drop Off. Tour Pick-up is in front of Ross Dress for Less Outlet (2 minutes walk away from Ohia Waikiki Studio)
If you rented a car you can follow this list for the road trip. However, you'll be missing some great stories about Hawaii. Our tour guide, Jake, was an excellent storyteller, he told us the myths and legends of the places we went to, local intriguing facts, and captivating Hawaiian secrets.
Here are the places that we went on the Island Tour:
1. DIAMOND HEAD LOOKOUT
Also known as the Amelia Earhart Lookout overlooking the blue ocean water.
2. HALONA BLOWHOLE
A blowhole on the island of Oahu overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
It was our lucky day as we were able to get off at Haula Beach Park where we were introduced to a Hawaiian Monk Seal. An endangered species in the Hawaiian Islands and is often seen alone or in small groups, and that's where it got its name.
We also passed by the famous Koko Head, a strenuous steep hike along an abandoned railway track. If I weren't pregnant our butts will surely be up there on our first day.
3. SANDY BEACH
We drove by here as it's known for its powerful shore breaks that attract experienced surfers.
4. MAKAPUU BEACH
The easternmost point of Oahu that offers 1,000 ft long white sand beaches. This is also the area where we had our Lu'au Package with Ka Moana, a dinner, and dance entertainment on the island. We purchased our Lu'au Package for two with GROUPON.
5. WAIMANALO
We passed by this beach area, more secluded and still offers Hawaii's blue waters and fine white sand. A great option if you want to be away from the crowds in Downtown Waikiki Beach.
Free Coffee Tasting and Free Macadamia Nuts Tasting
6. MACADAMIA NUT FARM
Tropical Farm with good coffee and flavored selection of Macadamia Nuts. I got Kono Coffee Glazed Macadamia Nuts for 10 USD.
7. CHINAMAN HAT
Also known as Mokoli'i island. I'm not sure if I saw this basalt islet in Kane'ohe Bay. This is still found on the east side of Oahu and famous for kayakers. It got its name Chinaman Hat because of the island's shape like a fisherman or a Chinese merchant hat.
8. SHRIMP TRUCKS
Lunch was enjoyed at the North Shore featuring their Shrimp Trucks in the area. We ordered the Coconut Shrimp and Lemon and buttered Shrimp.
9. FRUIT STANDS
Afterwards, we dropped by a local fruit stand that offers local fresh fruits and vegetables. I bought some Mango slices for 4 USD and "Turon" ( a sweet Filipino banana dessert rolled in spring roll wrapper) for 1 USD.
TURTLE BAY
Just across the street from the fruit stands we went swimming at Turtle Bay. Snorkeling gears were provided. Hubby and I and my little one already swimming inside my tummy tried to check the waters but it was too murky and the waves were not helpful at all, so instead, we just dipped in the waters for a few minutes then allowed enough time to dry and changed before heading back to the bus.
10. SUNSET BEACH
Also known as the surfing mecca of Oahu. We passed by this beach as we were cruising on the North shore. It's known for hosting big wave surfing events during the winter season.
11. BANZAI PIPELINE
This is the place known for its Surfing competition, where the waters offer spectacular barreling waves. Surfing Apparel Companies have their headquarters nestled in this beach area, where they measure the waves and all that stuff.
12. WAIMEA BAY
Our bus drove by this famous bay and our bus tour guide told us the story of Eddie Aikau. A respected Hawaiian lifeguard and surfer, who in his career as a lifeguard was able to save 500 people at the same time a popular surfer who surfs the big Hawaiian surf.
13. LANIAKEA
We passed by Laniakea Beach which is also known as Turtle Beach on the North Shore. A great spot to find green sea turtles sunbathing along the white sand beach.
14. HALEIWA TOWN
Another town we passed by and is considered a historical surf town where back in the day the sugar plantation industry supported this North Shore communities' livelihood.
15. DOLE PLANTATION
This is Oahu’s famous historical pineapple farm, which reminds me that we also have a Dole Plantation back in the Philippines. Hubby loved the pineapple ice cream, the lady gave us the wrong order instead she gave us the premium ice cream but with a big smile she gave it to me with no extra charge. My favorite is this chili hotdog with pineapple bits on its toppings, we paid less than 20 USD for both snacks.
16. COFFEE FARM
Last stop of the tour. This is Oahu’s first Coffee Visitor Farm where they roast coffees daily on-site, offer free coffee tasting, and sell awesome coffee t-shirts for souvenirs.
Fourth Day
March 29 Check-in Hilton and Turtle Snorkeling
Address: 2330 Kuhio Avenue, Waikiki, Honolulu, HI 96815, United States
March 29 - April 1, 4 days 3 nights
530 USD
Our room has a city view, a flat-screen TV, a refrigerator, a microwave, a water heater kettle, and a Keurig coffee machine. Parking fees apply and a security deposit upon check-in.
The hotel is just 2 minutes walk from Ohia Waikiki Studio. It's more expensive but you can never beat the comfort and ambiance. There was a building construction nearby and we barely heard a thing, plus the bed smelled fresher and the bathroom was immaculate. We wanted to pamper ourselves more for the fourth night, so we decided to go to the Hilton Garden Inn.
Turtle Snorkeling Adventure with Pink Sails Waikiki
- March 29, 2 pm - 4 pm
- 2-hour Snorkeling adventure at the Infamous Turtle Canyon with equipment, food, and beverage.
- Price: 50 USD per person, We purchased our Turtle Snorkeling with GROUPON.
- Meet-up at the Harbor 10 minutes by car or 30 minutes walk from Hilton Garden Inn
- Address: 1651 Ala Moana Blvd #600 a, Honolulu, HI 96815
- Bring: Towel, sunscreen, slippers, change clothes, camera, and windbreaker jacket
After the turtle snorkeling check out the nearby beaches and have dessert:
- Hilton Lagoon and Kahanamoku Beach (1 minute away from the Harbor)
- Cafe Glace at Waikiki Beach Walk (4 minutes by car or 17 minutes walk from Hilton Lagoon)
We found the Dashboard Hula Girl on our last-minute souvenir shopping at the airport.
Fifth Day
March 30, Couples Hawaiian Massage, Souvenir Shopping and Lu'au Dinner with Ka Moana Lu'au
Couples Hawaiian Massage
- 11 am Lava Massage and Day Spa, 4 minutes by car or 23 minutes walk from Hilton Garden Inn
- Address: 1750 Kalakaua Ave # 2502, Honolulu, HI 96826
- Price: 130 USD for two-person
Souvenir Shopping at ABC Stores
- Board shorts 25 USD
- Turtle and Flower Silver Earrings 25 USD
- Chocolates 12 packs 40 USD
- Macadamia Nuts 8 packs 30 USD
- Fridge magnet 4 pieces 20 USD
- Wooden Tiki Decor 9 USD
- Hula Girl 1 piece 7 USD
- Turtle Stickers 4 pieces: 20 USD
Henna Tattoo
Henna Tattoo for 45 USD, near Royal Hawaiian Center
Splash Lu'au Package for Two People with Ka Moana Lu'au
Address: 41-202 Kalanianaʻole Hwy, Waimanalo, HI 96795
Price: 216 USD
Optional: for pick-up for an additional fee of 18 USD per person
- We purchased our Lu'au Package for two with GROUPON.
- Pick-up at 4:20 pm in Hyatt Regency Waikiki (5 minutes walk from Hilton Garden Inn)
- Address: 2424 Kalakaua Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96815
- Splash Lu’au Package includes:
- Deluxe shell lei
- Moana Splash Seating
- 2 drink tickets per person
- Cultural activities
- Buffet dinner (served by the staff)
- Admission to Sea Life Park (Up to 40 USD Value) - Can be used when the park reopens.
My husband was excited about this Lu'au night package for two. Lu'au is a traditional Hawaiian party with lots of food and entertainment like Hawaiian music, fire dance, and stories about Hawaii presented with vibrant costumes and hula dance moves. Due to COVID restrictions, ukulele lessons, and Lei making was not included in the event. Despite that, the lively music still made the night special, and the Aloha spirit was still in the air.
Sixth Day
March 31, Chill Day, Ice Cream, Coffee, and Fun at the Beach
Address: Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon Boardwalk, Honolulu, HI 96815
Waikiki Beach via Sheraton Waikiki
There are no private beaches in Hawaii, all the beaches are open to the public. We learned this important information during our Island Tour with Jake. So we walked to the other side of Waikiki Beach where it seems less crowded and went through the Sheraton Waikiki to the public beach area. We even thought the Hilton Lagoon was owned by Hilton and only accessible to Hinton guests, but it's open to the public.
Honolulu Coffee Company for 7 USD inside the Sheraton Waikiki
Coffee Break @ Honolulu Coffee Company
After dipping in the waters of Waikiki Beach it was time for a coffee break. The Hawaiian Kona coffee is mild, clean, and smooth to the palate. I usually prefer my coffee dark and bitter but this one was an exception, it's a nice break from my usual coffee preference. Afterwards, we went out to satisfy our sweet tooth cravings.
Hawaiian Shaved Ice Cream for 9 USD near Royal Hawaiian Center
Hawaiian Shaved Ice Cream @ Royal Hawaiian Center
The Hawaiian shaved ice was a refreshing treat during a hot day in Hawaii. It was just right the sweetness and the fresh fruit toppings made it tastier.
Ice Monster (Korean Shaved Ice) for 11 USD
Address: 2255 Kūhiō Ave., Honolulu, HI 96815
Ice Monster
We tried Korean Shaved Ice for comparison, and there's a huge difference in the shaved ice. The Korean style is finer and sweeter.
Seventh Day: Last Day
Flight: April 1, American Airlines: Honolulu to Los Angeles
5 hours and 30 minutes
8:00 am - 4:30 pm
Price: 278 USD for two-person
Last-minute souvenir shopping at the airport
Dashboard Hula Girl 2 pieces 15 USD
Have fun and be safe ^__^
Do you want more adventure in Oahu?
Check out Must-try Foods in Oahu, Hawaii
Where am I going next?
My next adventure is hiking the Easiest trail in Malibu and will try to see the famous Sea of Clouds at the Topanga Lookout Trailhead, California.
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