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Planning a trip to Oahu 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 Oahu without feeling overwhelmed. From iconic sights like Diamond Head and Pearl Harbor to helicopter rides, sunset cruises, snorkeling with sea turtles, and exploring the island’s best beaches, 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!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did on Oahu 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 top sights with no planning required.
Day 1
See all of Oahu on a full-day tour
We kicked off our Oahu 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 leading us around, 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 relax and 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.
Don’t miss out – check availability and secure your spot in advance here!
Dinner – Duke’s
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 on Oahu, 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 – Hike the Diamond Head Crater
No trip to Oahu is complete without hiking Diamond Head, 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, 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.
Enjoy this hike stress-free when you book this tour here!
Afternoon – Boat ride or snorkeling with turtles
It wouldn’t be a trip to Oahu without carving out some time to get out on the ocean! After a busy morning hiking, the afternoon is all yours to jump on a very cool glass bottom boat tour or jump into the water to snorkel with turtles!
Option 1: Take a glass bottom boat tour
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 1:45 pm slot because we didn’t want to rush there after hiking! 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!
You can book your glass bottom boat tour here, with free cancellation!
Option 2: Go snorkeling with sea turtles
Right off the coast of Waikiki is an amazing place known as Turtle Canyon that you can visit on this 2-hour snorkel tour. We’d heard this was one of the best places to see turtles up close, and it did not disappoint.
If you’re following this itinerary after hiking Diamond Head in the early morning, book one of the afternoon slots of either 12:30 pm or 2:30 pm.
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!
Check the schedule and secure this underwater adventure here!
Evening – Enjoy the Sunset
There’s nothing quite like a Hawaiian sunset! Tonight, either head to Waikiki Beach to watch the sky change color or get an even better view from the water! We made our way to Kewalo Harbor for this unforgettable sunset catamaran cruise.
The cruise departs at 5 pm sharp, so give yourself time to get cleaned up 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!
Click here to reserve your spot on this premium sunset cruise!
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.
Dinner – Aloha Melt Waikiki
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: For some more ideas on how to fill your itinerary, check out our guide on the 15 best things to do in Oahu here!
Day 3
Make your way to the North Shore
Today is going to be full of epic views and some adrenaline-pumping activities (spoiler alert: ziplining!), so after your morning cup of joe and breakfast, it’s time to make your way to the North Shore.
We rented a car for the day (we use Discover Cars) and it took about an hour and 20 minutes to drive from Honolulu to the zipline tour. You can take the Windward Coast there or go through the island. We personally suggest following the coast for some spectacular morning views.
The tour has multiple start times, so if you aren’t an early riser, don’t worry about it. Keep in mind that an earlier start means more time to explore (and it’s not as hot), so we think either the 9 or 10 am start times are perfect.
Morning – Get your adrenaline pumping on a zipline adventure
Once you get to Kahuku, the real fun begins! The North Shore is known for its incredible natural scenery and adventurous lifestyle, so combine both on this epic zipline tour! This tour takes you on Oahu’s longest ziplines, and let me tell you, it’s an adrenaline rush you won’t forget!
There are multiple start times for this tour, but since we had the long drive from Honolulu, we selected the 10 am slot. Be sure to reserve this tour early, as the peak times fill up quickly!
The journey starts with an ATV ride through the lush Hawaiian jungle. Bouncing up the mountain trails, I couldn’t help but take in the breathtaking panoramic views along the North Shore. This scenic ride really set the tone for an epic day!
Once we reached the top of the mountain, the real adventure began. The ziplines ranged from 500 feet (152 meters) to 2,400 feet (732 meters) long, and each one offered a new perspective of the stunning landscape. Flying over treetops with the wind in my face was exhilarating!
But this tour isn’t just about the ziplines – it’s a full-on jungle experience. We crossed sky bridges, rappelled down ropes, and walked scenic boardwalks, all with the guidance of an awesome and safety-focused crew.
Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or just looking to try something new, this tour delivers. It lasts for 2.5 hours and is non-stop fun from start to finish!
Read the thousands of 5-star reviews and secure your spot here!
Lunch – Stop for lunch in Kahuku
Ziplining was pretty dang fun, huh? I don’t know about you, but afterwards we had worked up quite the appetite! If your stomach is rumbling, stopping at the nearby Kahuku Food Trucks is a must!
This famous stretch is packed with food trucks, small stands, and a handful of cute shops, all set up along the road, so the best way to explore is just to take a stroll and try a few different things along the way.
This is where you’ll find the original Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck. It’s always buzzing and absolutely worth the stop if you’re craving garlicky shrimp! We also grabbed fresh fruit from a local fruit stand, including the best mango and coconut, which was such a refreshing snack.
Beyond the food, there are a few small shops selling souvenirs and local products, plus plenty of fun photo ops with colorful trucks, signs, and palm trees in the background.
Afternoon – Explore the North Shore at your own pace
North Shore is (and I’m not being dramatic) one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world. Made up of rugged beaches that are contrasted by deep blue water and lush jungles, a trip to Oahu isn’t complete without exploring it at your own pace.
After lunch, spend a copule hours zig-zagging up the coast and admiring the views. Below, we have a few of our favorite stops along the way.
- Sunset Beach – If you want some sand between your toes to go with your views, Sunset Beach is a great choice. We spent about an hour here looking for shells and watching the professional surfers tackle some massive waves!
- Banzai Pipeline (Ehukai Beach Park) – This is one of the most famous surf breaks in the world and the location of several major surfing competitions. You’ll likely see the biggest waves here during the winter!
- Laniakea Beach – Sea turtles and surfers. Need I say more? You can see both of these classic Hawaii sights at this beach, just please don’t touch the turtles!
- Haleʻiwa Aliʻi Beach Park – We love this park because it has some great walking paths and plenty to see. There’s a nice little marina, a beach where you can sit and swim, some rugged shoreline, and if you’re lucky, you might even see some turtles. It’s a good all-around spot to hang out for a while.
- Matsumoto Shave Ice – Not a beach, but darn good shave ice! If you need a tasty cool-down treat after exploring the North Shore, this is the best place to get one. We recommend the Rainbow Shave Ice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
Late Afternoon/Evening – Waimea Valley and Toa Luau
To end your North Shore day on the highest possible note, we highly recommend booking the Toa Luau at Waimea Valley. It’s one of our favorite experiences on Oahu because it combines a luau with admission to Waimea Valley all in one.
From Sunset Beach, it’s only about a 10-minute drive, and we recommend planning to arrive around 3 pm. That gives you plenty of time to explore the valley before the luau begins at 5 pm.
The main thing you’ll want to do here is the walk to Waimea Falls. The trail is fully paved and takes you through gorgeous, lush garden grounds that feel like something out of Jurassic Park. It’s about a 30-minute walk each way, and the waterfall at the end is beautiful. You can even swim here, so definitely bring a bathing suit if you want to take a dip.
Check-in for the luau starts around 4:50–5 pm, and once you’re in, the fun begins. Before dinner, there are cultural activities, and then you’ll sit down for a big meal followed by an incredible Polynesian show complete with fire dancing (my favorite part!).
One important note: don’t book this on a Monday, since Waimea Valley is closed and the valley is a big part of what makes this experience so special. The luau wraps up around 8 pm, giving you plenty of time to drive back to Honolulu and crash after a very full (and very memorable) North Shore day!
Secure your spot for this popular luau here!
Related Read: If you have more time, check out all our favorite things to do on Oahu’s North Shore, including some hidden gems!
Day 4
Morning – Visit Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial
By day four, we were ready to trade sandy beaches for history, so we 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 significant 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. This was one of those places that we’d heard so much about, but seeing it in real life really had an impact on us.
Our tour wrapped up around 5 pm, 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!
Book this popular tour here and experience the full story of Pearl Harbor!
Dinner – Big Island Burger
After a busy day, 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
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 shocked 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!
Read 2,700+ rave reviews and book this amazing magic show here!
Day 5
Morning – See Oahu from above
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 Oahu 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
By our final day, we wanted to see Oahu from a whole new angle—literally. 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 the island.
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!
This tour is likely to sell out – reserve it here and pay later!
Option 2: Parasailing
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’s 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.
Be sure to book your 1-hour parasailing adventure here to secure your spot
Lunch – Lulu’s
After that adrenaline-fueled morning, we were ready to slow down and refuel, and Lulu’s is just the place. This laid-back beachfront restaurant in Waikiki is our go-to when we’re craving good food and even better views.
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 relax before your next adventure.
Afternoon – Browse Waikiki’s shops or relax on a beach
We kept things simple this afternoon and took a leisurely stroll through Waikiki’s shops. This area is full of everything from beachy boutiques and local art galleries to big-name brands and souvenir stands, so it’s the perfect chance to grab a few last-minute gifts or keepsakes.
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. We 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!
If you find yourself with even more time, hit the beach! Luckily, you won’t need to go far. Waikiki Beach is right across from Lulu’s in the heart of Honolulu. It’s the perfect spot to spend a few lazy hours in the sun on your last day.
Early Evening – Surf Alley and a beach treat
Since it’s your last night in paradise, it feels only right to spend it at the beach – if you weren’t here already! Make your way down the famous Waikiki Surf Alley, which is lined with colorful surfboards and leads straight to the sand. It’s a fun photo-op, too!
And if you fancy a snack, head to Banan, a tiny ice cream stand that makes soft-serve using frozen bananas. I was hungry, so I grabbed the strawberry guava flavor topped with fresh fruit, then walked 30 seconds to the beach and ate it while watching the sunset. Honestly, it was the perfect way to spend our last sunset on Oahu with dessert before dinner!
Dinner – Japanese Food
Hawaii gets a huge number of Japanese visitors, which means you’ll find some of the best Japanese food outside of Japan right here on Oahu! It’s such a fun option for your last night, and we found it to be the perfect way to round off our trip.
One of our favorite foodie discoveries in Waikiki 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 browse a final few souvenir shops before heading back to your hotel. It’s the perfect way to wrap up your 5 days on Oahu!
Where to Stay on Oahu
Now that you’re set to explore the best Oahu 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 Oahu here.
Related Read: For more help with where to base yourself, check out our Where to Stay in Oahu guide for the best areas and hotels!
Renting a Car in the 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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Thanks for reading!
While we wanted to stay in Hawaii forever, five days on Oahu proved to be the perfect amount of time! This is the exact itinerary we followed, and we found it to be a great balance of adventure and relaxation. Stick to our recommendations and you’ll experience the best on Oahu!
Before you go, be sure to check out our other Hawaii blogs! We have even more guides on all the incredible islands you can visit as you plan your next vacation. Here are some related blogs to get you started:
5 Best Circle Island Tours on Oahu: Which One to Choose
15 Best Things to do in Honolulu, Hawaii