Restuarant, Coffee Shop and Bar recommendations in no particular order. Special shout out to Fete & Pig and the Lady.

Kick off the morning with a hike up Diamond Head (Lēʻahi), one of Oahu’s most famous landmarks. The trail winds up the inside of an ancient volcanic crater, offering a mix of paved paths, switchbacks, tunnels, and a few sets of stairs.

The hike is about 1.6 miles round trip. Reservations are required.

Hanauma Bay Snorkel Excursion

Spend the morning at Hanauma Bay, one of Oahu’s most beautiful and famous natural preserves. This stunning bay was formed inside a volcanic crater and offers calm, shallow waters that are perfect for snorkeling. The area is home to an incredible variety of marine life, including colorful reef fish, vibrant corals, and, if you're lucky, Hawaiian green sea turtles.

Reservations are required. Getting an Uber back to Waikiki may be difficult, this is best to do if someone rents a car.

If you’ve ever wanted to learn to surf, Waikiki is one of the best places in the world to do it. The gentle, slow rolling waves and sandy bottom make it ideal for beginners. Lessons can be arranged through the hotel or various vendors on the beach.

Explore the lush tropical rainforest on the Manoa Falls Trail, a popular and accessible hike just a short drive from Waikiki. The trail is about 1.6 miles round trip and leads through vibrant greenery, bamboo groves, and occasional tropical flowers. You’ll hear the sounds of birds and rushing streams as you make your way to the highlight—a stunning 150-foot waterfall cascading into a serene pool below.

The trail is mostly shaded and relatively easy, but it can get muddy after rain, so sturdy shoes are recommended.

Parking is limited and the trailhead can get busy, so arriving early is recommended.

Located about 20 minutes west of Waikiki. The hike follows an old railway track up the side of Koko Head Crater, featuring 1,048 steep railroad ties as steps. The trail gains approximately 1,200 feet in elevation over a distance of about 1.8 miles round trip. Enjoy views of Hanauma Bay, the southeastern coastline, and the surrounding island landscape. The trail is best attempted during early morning hours to avoid heat and crowds.

Visit The Royal Hawaiian, AKA the “Pink Palace of the Pacific,” is a step back in time to Waikiki’s golden age. Stroll through its lush, tropical grounds and iconic Spanish-Moorish-style lobby. Opened in 1927, the Royal Hawaiian quickly became a favorite retreat for Hollywood stars, royalty, and dignitaries. You’ll note that the lobby is oriented towards the ocean, as it predates air travel. Visit the Mai Tai bar for lunch.

My personal favorite activity in Waikiki, spending all day by the pool at the Halekulani. The vibe is serene and refined. The staff is on point, taking care of everything you need. Limited to no screaming kids. Endless mai tais.

Lanikai Beach & Canoe Adventure to the Mokulua Islands

Lanikai Beach is often ranked among the most beautiful beaches in the world, with powdery white sand, calm turquoise water, and a picture-perfect view of the Mokulua Islands ("the Mokes") just offshore. You'll have the chance to paddle out by canoe or kayak to the larger of the two islands, Moku Nui, for a bit of exploration and incredible scenery.

The paddle is about 30–45 minutes each way. Once at Moku Nui, you can relax on the beach, explore tide pools, or enjoy the unique coastal landscape. If conditions allow, some may want to swim or snorkel near the island as well.

Renting a car to visit is required.

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Oahu is not big and its totally possible to drive around most of the island in a few hours (including stops). There’s so much to see, including Waimea Canyon, Haleiwa Town, Kaloa Ranch (where Jurassic Park and Lost were filmed), Shrimp Scampi Trucks, Turtle Bay Resort and simply watching giant waves roll in driving along the beach with rugged mountains in the background.

Check out renting a car from Avis nextdoor at the Sheraton or Sixt a few blocks away. I’d recommend renting for a single day, returning before they close so you don’t have to pay for parking at the hotel.