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How to Spend FIVE Days in Honolulu, Hawaii – Best 5-Day Itinerary

How to Spend FIVE Days in Honolulu, Hawaii – Best 5-Day Itinerary

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Planning a trip to Honolulu and feeling overwhelmed by all the options? We’ve got you covered.

This five-day itinerary is based on our own travels and is designed to help you experience the best of Honolulu, without the overwhelm. From iconic sights like Diamond Head and Pearl Harbor to helicopter rides, sunset cruises, snorkeling with sea turtles, and downtime on Waikiki Beach, it strikes a great balance of adventure, culture, and island vibes.

You’ll find our favorite tours, practical tips, and firsthand recommendations to make planning your trip easy and stress-free. Let’s get into it!

Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!

Dole pineapple farm plantation in Waikiki Honolulu Hawaii (31)

The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!

Our personal FAVORITE thing we did was this Circle Island tour! We were whisked off to some of the island’s best spots – from scenic lookouts to the famous North Shore and the Dole Plantation! It was a stress-free way to see so many of the island’s top sights with no planning required.

Check out the 17,400+ reviews and book this tour here!

Day 1

See all of Oahu on a full-day tour

Halona Blowhole seen on a tour from Honolulu Oahu Hawaii
Halona Blowhole
Pineapple treat at Dole in Waikiki Honolulu Hawaii (28)
Dole Whip is so tasty!

We kicked off our Honolulu adventure with an early wake-up call and were out the door by 6:30 am for our first big day. I’m not usually a morning person on vacation, but this full-day Oahu sightseeing tour was absolutely worth the early start.

This tour covers so many of Oahu’s most iconic spots that it felt like we checked off half our bucket list in a single day, without ever feeling rushed! Some highlights included watching the Halona Blowhole shoot water high into the air, and spending time at the Dole Plantation, complete with a cup full of the famous Dole Whip ice cream!

This full-day tour also gives you a great introduction to the North Shore, which has a much more laid-back, surf-town feel. We had time to grab lunch at the famous Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck in Haleiwa, and the shrimp and rice plate I had was definitely worth the hype.

One of the best parts, though, was the ease of this day! With our local guide, we saw corners of Oahu that we usually couldn’t have in a short 5-day trip. Everything wraps up around 4 pm, allowing just enough time to freshen up before dinner. For first-time visitors, this tour is a no-brainer. You see so much of the island in one day, and with over 17,000 five-star reviews, it clearly delivers. 

Dinner – Duke’s

Duke's Waikiki dinner eaten on Oahu in Honolulu Hawaii 1
Photo credit: Duke’s Waikiki
Duke's Waikiki dinner eaten on Oahu in Honolulu Hawaii
Photo credit: Duke’s Waikiki

After a full day of exploring Oahu, Duke’s is the perfect spot to unwind. Right on Waikiki Beach, this iconic restaurant serves up ocean views, tiki bar charm, and live Hawaiian music that instantly sets the tone for a relaxed evening.

Yes, it’s on the pricier side, but for your first night in Honolulu, the beachfront setting makes it worth every penny. Grab a mai tai, settle in for sunset, and enjoy local favorites like macadamia nut-crusted fish and their famous hula pie.

We definitely recommend making a reservation, especially at sunset, typically around 6 pm. That said, you can also just show up and try your luck. We were put on a waitlist during our last visit and had to wait a bit for a table, but it was worth it!

Day 2

Morning – Go snorkeling with sea turtles

A-huge-turtle-swims-through-the-waters-of-Honolulu-Hawaii
A bucket list experience!
Bailey-snorkels-in-Honolulu-Hawaii
We saw tons of other colorful fish as well

One of the highlights of our entire trip was this 2-hour snorkel tour to Turtle Canyon, right off the coast of Waikiki. We’d heard this was one of the best places to see sea turtles up close, and it did not disappoint.

We started with a quick, easy briefing from the guide, who made sure everyone felt comfortable before heading out. All snorkeling gear is provided, so there’s no need to bring anything extra—just show up ready to swim!

As soon as we dipped beneath the surface, it felt like we entered a different world. Hawaiian green sea turtles (or honu) glided effortlessly around the reef, sometimes so close we could see the fine patterns on their shells. Schools of colorful fish swirled all around, making it just as beautiful above the reef as below.

Back on the boat, we were treated to a surprise visit from a pod of spinner dolphins while snacking and soaking up the sun. Between the marine life, the views, and the smooth ride, this was easily one of our favorite experiences on Oahu—and with over 4,000 five-star reviews, we’re definitely not the only ones who think so!

Tour times vary by day, but we recommend booking the 9:30 am slot if available. Otherwise, aim for the 10:30 am or 8 am start. It’s an unforgettable way to experience the ocean, especially if you’ve never tried diving before.

Lunch – Paia Fish Market Waikiki

Paia Fish Market Oahu Waikiki Hawaii
At Paia Fish Market
Food eaten at the Paia Fish Market Oahu Waikiki Hawaii
Seafood lovers do not want to miss this

After your scuba diving adventure, you’ll probably want to rinse off and recharge, so we headed back to the hotel to get cleaned up before lunch. Once we were ready, we made our way to Paia Fish Market Waikiki, one of our favorite casual spots for fresh seafood at a great price.

The vibe is laid-back and quick, but the food is seriously delicious. The menu is packed with options like grilled fish plates, fish tacos, and garlic fries, all cooked fresh and full of flavor. I ordered the Cajun-style mahi mahi with rice and home potatoes and would absolutely recommend it. It’s right in the heart of Waikiki, making it an easy stop before easing into your afternoon in Honolulu.

Afternoon – Stroll through Waikiki’s shops

A cat at the cat cafe on Oahu Waikiki Hawaii
Look at this cutie at the cat cafe!
Liliha Bakery on Oahu Waikiki Hawaii
Liliha Bakery

With just a little time left in the afternoon, we kept things simple and took a leisurely stroll through Waikiki’s shops. Since we were close by, we popped into the International Market Place, which is a three-storey open-air mall packed with shops to browse. It even has some practical stops like Target if you need to grab a few essentials for your hotel! 

We picked up a couple of souvenirs and popped into a super cute cat café, which is purr-fect for animal lovers (sorry, couldn’t resist). Then, we treated ourselves at Liliha Bakery, which is famous for its donuts and puff pastries. The pineapple cake was my favorite!

Evening – Attend a traditional luau

Women dance at a luau in Waikiki Honolulu Hawaii (21)
The outfits are so colorful
Fire dancers at a luau in Waikiki Honolulu Hawaii (27)
And the fire dancers were amazing!

We highly recommend going to a luau while you’re in Hawaii, and after attending quite a few over the years, we definitely have a favorite! The Mauka Warriors Luau includes transportation from Waikiki and it was hands-down the best luau we’ve been to.

Before the show even started, we got to participate in fun activities like getting Polynesian tattoos (I got hibiscus flowers on my ankle), headband weaving, and a traditional cooking demonstration. Then, we sat down to a generous buffet followed by an incredible show. The hula dancers and even a haka performance completely wowed us, and the fire dancers at the finale were next level – they literally set the stage on fire! The entire luau is outdoors, too, so we got to watch the sunset and then see the stars come out as the night went on.

Pickup from this tour is usually at around 4 pm from Waikiki hotels, so we suggest heading back to your hotel from shopping around 3 pm to ensure you have time to get ready beforehand. Then, you’ll be dropped off again at around 9:30 pm. It’s a full evening, but it’s so worth it, and the time just flies by!

Day 3

Morning – See Oahu from above

Waikiki seen from a helicopter in Waikiki Honolulu Hawaii (2)
It’s time to take to the sky!

Today is all about variety, so we’re shaking things up to start the day. It’s time to take to the skies and enjoy the best views of Honolulu from above, but how you do that is up to you. We’ve got two amazing options here, so you can choose between a scenic helicopter ride or an exciting parasailing experience!

Option 1: Doors-off helicopter flight 

Diamond Head seen on a helicopter tour in Waikiki Honolulu Hawaii (5)
The views are amazing
Diamond head crater seen froma helicopter in Waikiki Honolulu Hawaii (6)
Looking into Diamond Head crater

We’ve taken a few helicopter flights on past trips, but nothing came close to the jaw-dropping views we got on this doors-off helicopter ride over Oahu.

The 50-minute flight started off on the right note when our pilot played “Danger Zone” from Top Gun as we took off! We were in awe from the start as we soared over some of the island’s most iconic landmarks, including Pearl Harbor and the lush, cinematic Ka’a’awa Valley—aka the real-life setting of Jurassic Park. Flying above the coastline, waterfalls, and mountain ridges gave us a whole new appreciation for the island’s natural beauty.

The doors-off part was a thrill on its own. You’re safely strapped in, of course, but there’s nothing between you and the open sky—just wind in your face and unobstructed views in every direction. We even spotted a few whales breaching in the distance!

With only four guests per helicopter, every seat gets a great view. For an even better one, we recommend upgrading to a front-row seat next to the pilot.

We suggest booking the 10 am flight for the best light and smoother air. Just don’t forget—you’ll need to arrive 45 minutes before departure, so plan accordingly. Trust us, this is one of those experiences that sticks with you. Don’t just take our word for it, check out the five-star reviews here to see why this is a top-rated tour!

Option 2: Parasailing

View-of-two-people-parasailing-over-the-ocean-in-Oahu-Hawaii near Honolulu
Such a fun time
Two-people-parasail-over-the-ocean-in-Oahu-Hawaii near Honolulu
I’ll admit it’s a bit of an adrenaline rush!

This parasailing adventure takes off right from Honolulu and offers unbeatable views and an unforgettable thrill. We soared 700 feet (213 meters) above the coast, taking in Diamond Head and the turquoise ocean below. You can upgrade to 800 or 1,000 feet (244 or 305 meters), or join as a boat observer if flying is not your thing. 

Don’t forget extra cash for photo and GoPro packages! It’s a quick and exciting way to see the island from a whole new perspective—without leaving the city.

Lunch – Beachfront dining at the famous Waikiki Beach

Shaved ice eaten in Waikiki Honolulu Hawaii (77)
Shave ice is a must!
Surf boards in Waikiki Honolulu Hawaii (60)
The view from the bistro is the beach!

After your morning adrenaline rush, it’s time to slow things down and go to my favorite place – Waikiki Beach! Dining with a front row seat to this legendary beach is a must, so make your way to Waikiki Beachside Bistro for lunch. 

We love the tacos here, and it’s also the perfect spot to enjoy the first Shave Ice of your trip! If you’re not sure what that is, it’s basically a bigger and better version of a snow cone, and it’s a Hawaiian classic! We loved the rainbow flavor here, which tasted just as good as it looked. 

Since the bistro sits right on Waikiki Beach, you can head straight out onto the sand once you’ve finished eating or get ready for the next adventure we have planned – it’s up to you!

Afternoon – Beach time or boat ride

Waikiki Beach at sunrise in Waikiki Honolulu Hawaii on Trelles trip (2)
Enjoying the water at Waikiki Beach
Headed out to spot whales!

It wouldn’t be a trip to Honolulu without carving out some time to embrace your inner beach bum. After a busy morning and a satisfying lunch, the afternoon is all yours to soak up the sun, take a dip, and enjoy that island pace on Waikiki Beach. Or if you want to get out on the water and see what creatures you can spot, a glass-bottom boat ride is up next!

Since lunch was at the beach, you can simply stroll out onto the sand and take a dip in the ocean. Waikiki Beach is the most famous beach on Oahu and in all of Hawaii! It’s one of my favorite spots, and we often find ourselves here for a lazy afternoon. The waves are perfect for playing in or just sit back and soak up some of that Hawaiian sunshine you came here for!

Take a glass bottom boat tour 

Looking down into the water from a glass bottom boat in Waikiki Honolulu Hawaii (46)
The viewing ports of the glass bottom boat
Humback whales seen from a boat tour in Waikiki Honolulu Hawaii
Whales!

On our last trip, we spent an afternoon aboard this glass bottom boat, and it’s one of our favorite memories ever! This is an awesome way to see a ton of marine life without having to get into the water. , and we were lucky enough to see turtles and humpback whales.

There are lots of tour times available in the afternoon, so we went with the 2:45 pm slot because we didn’t want to rush lunch on the beach! You’ll need to take a taxi or Uber to the harbor, which is about a 15-20 minute drive away.

We were lucky enough to see turtles, tons of fish, and even two humpback whales swimming right in front of Waikiki Beach. We were at a safe distance, but still close enough to hear the spray from their blowholes, which was unreal. And the views of Waikiki Beach with Diamond Head only made the whole experience even more stunning.

Our captain mentioned they often spot dolphins and seals as well, and if you’re visiting during peak whale season from January to March, your chances of seeing whales are even higher. We had super clear water when we went and could see all the way to the ocean floor through the glass viewing ports! 

Dinner – Big Island Burger

Big Island Burger in Oahu Waikiki Hawaii (1)
We love this burger spot
Big Island Burger in Oahu Waikiki Hawaii (2)
You have to try it for yourself!

After a busy afternoon, we were starving and craving a burger. Luckily, we happened to spot Big Island Burger while we were wandering around Waikiki, and now it’s our go-to burger spot! It’s owned by a local family, and everything on the menu is made using ingredients from the island, including the beef. The Hawaiian beef is grass-fed and organic, so it tastes insanely good, and the burgers are cooked to order, so you’ll get yours exactly how you like it! 

I went with a classic cheeseburger cooked medium, and it was mouthwatering. Don’t skip the shoestring fries, either. They’re cooked in beef tallow and seasoned with organic thyme, parsley, and kosher salt, then served with a garlic aioli. I thought that fries could only get so good, but Big Island Burger definitely proved me wrong! I also ordered the house-made lemonade, which was super refreshing and hit the spot after a busy day.

We grabbed a table outside, but there’s plenty of seating indoors too. This is one of those places we already know we’ll be coming back to on our next trip!

Evening – Magic Show 

A magic show in Waikiki Honolulu Hawaii (10)
This is a great family activity
A magic show in Waikiki Honolulu Hawaii (7)
The magician was fantastic!

Tonight, it’s time to switch things up with an evening activity that doesn’t involve more sun or sand. One of our favorite nighttime experiences in Honolulu is the Magical Mystery Show right in Waikiki – we were able to walk from our hotel!

This show feels like a bit of a hidden gem. The setting is a small, Victorian-style parlor, which creates an intimate, old-school atmosphere that’s very different from a big theatre show. Even though we sat toward the back, we still had an amazing view. You can also upgrade to VIP seating if you want to be right up front.

The magician, Shoot Ogawa, is considered one of the best close-up magicians in the world, and we were genuinely blown away by what he was able to do right in front of us. The levitation trick still blows my mind.

The show mixes incredible magic with humor and lots of audience interaction. I even got to yell “stop” during one of his card tricks and took home the signed vanishing card as a souvenir. And there was also a very cool trick with zip codes and a calculator – but you’ll have to go to the show to see it in action!

Why We Book Tours with Viator

Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:

  • Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
  • Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
  • Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
  • Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
  • Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.

Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.

Day 4

Visit Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial

At-the-Pearl-Harbor-memorial-in-Oahu-Hawaii near Honolulu
History buffs will want this tour at the top of their list
Part-of-the-wreck-of-the-USS-Arizona-in-Pearl-Harbor-Oahu-Hawaii near Honolulu
Part of the wreck of the USS Arizona

On our third day, we traded sand for stories and joined this full-day Pearl Harbor and Honolulu city tour. For anyone even remotely interested in WWII or U.S. history, this is a must.

For the best experience, we recommend the 9-hour Ultimate Pearl Harbor Tour—it’s the most complete option, with visits to the Battleship Missouri and Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum. With pickup between 7:55 and 8:40 am, this tour includes a guided drive through historic Honolulu, and the commentary really elevated the experience, helping us get our bearings and appreciate landmarks like Iolani Palace and Punchbowl National Cemetery.

The most impactful part of the day was visiting Pearl Harbor itself. We watched a documentary on the events of December 7, 1941, before taking a boat out to the USS Arizona Memorial. Standing over the sunken ship, surrounded by the names of those who lost their lives, was deeply moving.

Both the Battleship Missouri and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum were absolutely worth the extra time. Touring the “Mighty Mo,” where WWII officially ended, was fascinating—the scale of the ship alone is impressive. And the museum had incredible aircraft on display, along with thoughtful exhibits that really helped us understand the broader context of the Pacific War.

Our tour wrapped up around 4:30, and we left feeling like we had truly connected with the history of this place. You could visit Pearl Harbor on your own, but this guided experience adds so much more depth. It’s storytelling, education, and reflection all in one!

Dinner – Japanese Food

Japanese Food Court in Waikiki Oahu Hawaii (2)
Noodle street!
Ramen-eaten in Waikiki Oahu Hawaii
I will never turn down ramen

After a full-day history tour, we were more than ready to slow things down and grab something casual and easy for supper. Hawaii gets a huge number of Japanese visitors, which means you’ll find some of the best Japanese food outside of Japan right here in Honolulu!

One of our favorite foodie discoveries in Honolulu was what’s often referred to as the Japanese Food Court. We stumbled upon it completely by accident on our last trip and knew we had to come back again! It’s tucked away in the basement of a shopping center and filled with incredible Japanese restaurants all in one place. We had the best ramen here, but there are also options for sushi, steak, dumplings, seafood, and more, so just wander around and see what takes your fancy. 

Alternatively, we also love Gyu-Kaku. It’s a casual Japanese BBQ joint in Waikiki. It’s fun and relaxed, and you get to cook the food right at your table! The menu is filled with tasty combos, from marinated short ribs to garlic shrimp and sizzling veggies. Plus, it’s right in Waikiki, so you can wander around and browse a final few souvenir shops before heading back to your hotel.

Related Read: Before you finalize your itinerary, make sure you have a plan to get here from the airport. Our guide on getting from Honolulu Airport to your hotel includes our favorite shuttle with a lei greeting!

Day 5

Morning – Hike Diamond Head Crater

diamond-head-lookout-trail on honolulu hawaii
The trail to Diamond Head Lookout
Diamond Head trail on Honolulu Hawaii
More views from the trail

No trip to Oahu is complete without hiking Diamond Head Crater, and we totally get the hype. This dormant volcanic crater is one of the island’s most iconic landmarks, and the panoramic views from the summit are some of the best you’ll find on the island.

The trail is just 1.6 miles (2.6 km) round-trip and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to complete. It’s a moderately challenging climb due to the incline, but the path is paved and easy to follow. The trailhead is only a 15-minute drive from downtown Honolulu, making it an easy morning activity. Since this is such a popular hike, out-of-state visitors must make a reservation in advance ($5 USD per person, plus $10 USD per car for parking), and spots can be booked up to two weeks ahead. But if that all sounds like a headache, we’ve got a great alternative.

We did this self-guided tour, and it was the most convenient option by far. It includes round-trip transportation from Waikiki, park entrance, a map, and bottled water. The driver gives you everything you need, then drops you off at the trail and tells you when to be back. You hike at your own pace and enjoy those stunning views — no stress, no planning. It’s a simple, active way to kick off the day and see one of Oahu’s most famous sights.

Lunch – Lulu’s

Lunch breakfast eaten at Lulu's on Oahu Waikiki Hawaii (2)
Everything is so good!
Seating at Lulu's on Oahu Waikiki Hawaii
Lunch with a view

After wrapping up your Diamond Head hike, it’s time to slow down and refuel, and Lulu’s is just the place. This laid-back beachfront restaurant in Waikiki is only an 11-minute drive from the trailhead, making it an easy and rewarding post-hike stop.

We grabbed a table looking out to the ocean and treated ourselves to strawberry mochi pancakes topped with coconut syrup and the Big Kahuna Burger, plus strawberry daiquiris to drink! It’s the kind of spot where you can linger a bit, watch the waves, and soak in that post-hike glow before jumping into the rest of your day.

Afternoon – Waikiki Aquarium 

A seahorse at the Waikiki Aquarium in Waikiki Honolulu Hawaii (1)
Seahorses are super neat
Clown fish at the Waikiki Aquarium in Waikiki Honolulu Hawaii (83)
We found Nemo!

With full bellies, we were ready for a walk, and luckily, the Waikiki Aquarium is only a 10-minute stroll away! This is a smaller aquarium, so you only need about 45 minutes to an hour here, but we were honestly so impressed by how much they packed into the space.

I spent so long just mesmerized by the seahorses, especially the tiny baby ones that were literally the size of a grain of rice. There were clownfish, reef sharks, and these incredible cylindrical jellyfish tanks that stretched all the way to the ceiling.

We also timed our visit with a monk seal feeding and got to meet Hōʻailona, whose name means “a sign from the sea.” He was abandoned in the wild and is blind, so he couldn’t be released back into the ocean. One of the volunteers shared his story with us while we watched him “hunt” for fish and even bark loudly at his handler when he wanted more. It was a really fun stop on our trip!

Evening – Enjoy a sunset cruise

Daniel-and-Bailey-take-a-selfie-on-a-sunset-cruise-in Honolulu-Hawaii
We love a good cruise
The sunset at Kuhio Beach in Waikiki Honolulu Hawaii (65)
The sunsets in Hawaii are not to be missed!

There’s nothing quite like a Hawaiian sunset to put the exclamation point on an incredible trip, and one of the best ways to experience it is from the water. We freshened up at the hotel and made our way to Kewalo Harbor for this unforgettable sunset catamaran cruise on our last night.

The cruise departs at 5 pm sharp, so give yourself time to get back from the aquarium and arrive a little early. Once on board, we were welcomed with a premium drink and found a comfy spot on the spacious catamaran. The vibe was relaxed, the views were unreal, and the gentle motion of the boat along Waikiki’s coastline made it feel like the perfect end to the day.

As the sun dipped toward the horizon, the sky lit up with glowing pinks, fiery oranges, and soft purples, with Diamond Head silhouetted perfectly in the distance. We even spotted a few dolphins leaping nearby, and depending on the season (November to May), you might get lucky and see humpback whales too.

The cruise includes one complimentary drink, and you can also upgrade to VIP which lets you board early for the best seat and comes with a souvenir cup. The whole experience lasts about two hours, returning around 7 pm, just in time to carry that sunset glow into the rest of your night!

Dinner – Aloha Melt Waikiki 

Sandwich eaten at Aloha Melt in Waikiki Oahu Hawaii
Mmm Aloha Melt

After watching the sunset, we suggest a quick and tasty meal tonight, and Aloha Melt works perfectly for that! This place is a late-night staple and they stay open until 1 am, so just head over whenever you get back from your cruise and get one of their gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches! They stay busy right until close and when you taste these toasties for yourself, you’ll see why. 

I went for the classic grilled cheese, which combines four different cheeses with bacon and onions and plenty of ooey-gooey deliciousness. Then, I got the tomato and basil soup on the side, and it was the perfect combo. Best of all, this is also a budget-friendly place to eat, and that’s rare to find in Waikiki!

Related Read: Looking for more activities to fill your itinerary? Check out our guide to the 15 best things to do in Honolulu here!

Where to Stay in Honolulu

Photos of OUTRIGGER Waikiki Beach Resort from Trelle's trip to Waikiki Honolulu Hawaii (4)
We woke up to this view every day!
Photos of OUTRIGGER Waikiki Beach Resort from Trelle's trip to Waikiki Honolulu Hawaii (1)
One of our favorite places to stay in Hawaii

Now that you’re set to explore the best Honolulu has to offer, it’s time to find a great place to stay. We suggest staying in Waikiki, so you’re close to all the action, but since it’s THE place to be, finding a hotel from the hundreds of choices can feel overwhelming. Luckily, we have standout picks for all budgets – including our favorite beachfront hotel where we stayed for our last trip!

All the hotels below are in Central Waikiki for that classic Hawaiian vacation vibe and put you close to the beach and the best restaurants and shopping. Our biggest tip is to book early – Waikiki is popular for a reason, and you don’t want to miss out on your top choice!

The Royal Hawaiian – $$$ 

If you’ve ever dreamed of staying in that famous pink hotel on Waikiki Beach, this is the one. The Royal Hawaiian is an icon, a Luxury Collection resort with its own stretch of sand and that “old Hawaii” glamour. Rooms are bright and tropical, with garden or ocean views, and the hotel’s location on Waikiki Beach makes it easy to enjoy Diamond Head views and live entertainment.

With a full-service spa, two gorgeous outdoor pools, and cultural activities, it’s a proper treat-yourself stay. Luxury like this doesn’t come cheap, but it’s definitely money well spent! Rooms here start from around $500 USD per night. Check staying here off your bucket list by booking here!

OUTRIGGER Waikiki Beach Resort – $$ (Where we stayed!)

The OUTRIGGER Waikiki Beach Resort is our favorite pick in Waikiki — we loved every minute of our stay! Located directly on Waikiki Beach, it’s steps from the sand and is home to the legendary Duke’s restaurant. We loved listening to the ocean from our balcony and watching the water turn golden at sunset. Plus, it was so easy for beach days since we went from our room to having our feet in the sand in two minutes!

Rooms come with air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, fridges, and coffee makers, so you’re set up for relaxed beach days and easy mornings. We also love the little extras like free water bottles and a beach bag, and daily cultural activities (think lei-making and ukulele lessons). It’s a brilliant all-rounder in Waikiki with rooms starting around $350 USD per night. See if there’s a room available for your trip here!

Hotel Renew – $

Hotel Renew is a budget-friendly gem just one block from Waikiki Beach. This modern boutique hotel is known for its calming vibe and thoughtful touches, like beach towels and gear for guests to borrow. The bright, clean rooms are simple but comfortable, with plush beds and a 50-inch flat-screen TV for cozy nights in. Some rooms even have a partial ocean view or a balcony—perfect for sipping a morning coffee before hitting the sand.

Rates at Hotel Renew typically start at around $150–$250 USD per night, making it a great option for budget travelers who still want comfort and a prime Waikiki location. Check availability and book Hotel Renew online in advance!

For even more options, check out all the hotels in Honolulu here.

Related Read: Still wondering which hotel to choose? Have a look at our detailed guide that goes over all of Honolulu’s best areas and hotels!

Renting a Car in the USA

View of the road and scenery driving down route 66 in USA

The United States is a vast country with diverse landscapes, from bustling cities to scenic national parks. While public transportation exists in major cities, renting a car is often the best way to explore the country’s wide-open spaces and hidden gems.

We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find the right vehicle for your needs, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in the USA

  • Drive on the right: In the U.S., vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road, and the driver’s seat is on the left. If this is different than your home country, take some time to adjust before hitting busy streets!
  • Know the local rules: Speed limits, road signs, and driving laws can differ between states. For example, turning right on red is generally allowed after a complete stop, unless a sign indicates otherwise. Always check the specific rules for the states you’ll be driving in.
  • Add full insurance: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance, especially in the U.S., where long distances, varying road conditions, and unpredictable weather can lead to unexpected situations. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable!) to add this peace of mind when you book.
  • Choose the right car: Consider the nature of your trip. For city driving, a compact car is convenient, while for road trips or national park visits, an SUV might be more comfortable. With Discover Cars, it’s easy to filter by vehicle type, transmission, fuel efficiency, and more to find the perfect fit.

What You Need to Rent a Car in the USA

  • A valid driver’s license from your home country.
  • An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in English or uses a non-Roman alphabet. Some rental companies may require it, so it’s best to check in advance.
  • A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
  • Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.

Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the USA on your own terms!

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Daniel-and-Bailey-take-a-selfie-on-a-Oahu Hawaii Cruise
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While we wanted to stay in Hawaii forever, five days in Honolulu proved to be the perfect amount of time! This is the exact itinerary we followed on our last trip, and we found it was a great balance of adventure and relaxation. Stick to our recommendations and you’ll experience the best of Honolulu!

Before you go, be sure to check out our other Hawaii blogs! We have even more guides on all the islands that can be useful as you plan your upcoming vacation. Here are some related blogs to get you started:

15 Awesome Things to do on the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii

How to Spend FIVE DAYS in Maui, Hawaii: The Best 5-Day Itinerary

21 Awesome Things to do in Waikiki, Hawaii