This blog may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure policy for more info.
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.
The most common way to get around Oahu is by renting a car, which gives you the flexibility to explore beyond Honolulu, especially when visiting beaches, hikes, and other must-see spots.
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 was this full island tour! Cruising around with our local guide made it easy to see top sights around the island, such as Diamond Head Lookout, the Dole Plantation, North Shore, and more.
Check out the 15,000+ 5-star reviews and book this tour here!
Day 1
See all of Oahu on a full-day tour
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 I honestly felt like we ticked off half our bucket list in a single day, without ever feeling rushed. The pacing was spot on, and the mix of viewpoints, historic landmarks, and fun food stops kept things interesting from start to finish.
Some highlights included postcard-worthy views from Diamond Head Lookout, the Halona Blowhole shooting water nearly 30 feet (9 meters) high, fresh pineapple at the Dole Plantation, and roasted macadamia nuts straight from the farm. My personal favorite part was wandering on the quiet North Shore, which felt entirely different than the bustling vibe of Waikiki.
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 15,000 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 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 around sunset. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to linger, soaking up the views and starting to dream about the adventures still ahead.
Day 2
Visit Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial
On our second 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 or 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 – Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ
After a full-day history tour, we were more than ready to slow things down, and Gyu-Kaku was just the spot. This Japanese BBQ joint in Waikiki is casual, fun, and exactly what you want after a long day: a relaxed dinner that you cook right at your table.
Honolulu has no shortage of excellent Asian cuisine, and this was one of our favorites. The menu is filled with tasty combos, from marinated short ribs to garlic shrimp and sizzling veggies. We loved grilling everything ourselves and sharing it all family-style—it felt like a cozy, interactive meal without being too heavy.
Since it’s right in Waikiki, it’s perfect for a low-key evening. After dinner, we wandered the area, browsed a few shops, and maybe grabbed a little dessert on the way back to the hotel. Nothing too ambitious—just a mellow night to recharge before another big day.
Day 3
Morning – See Oahu from above on a doors-off helicopter flight
By our third day in Honolulu, we were ready 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 Oahu.
The 50-minute flight takes you over some of the island’s most iconic landmarks, including Pearl Harbor, the Halona Blowhole, 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. Even places we’d already seen from the ground looked completely different from the air.
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 first-class seating. It guarantees you a front-row seat next to the pilot (just note this upgrade can only be booked in pairs).
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!
Related Read: If you’re looking for more exciting Hawaiian adventures, check out these three epic flights in Kauai for your next trip!
Lunch – Castro’s
After the helicopter tour, we were ready to sit down and refuel, and Castro’s hit the spot. Just a short walk from our hotel, this laid-back Cuban café served up hearty plates and tropical flavors that felt perfect for a midday break. We ordered the Cuban sandwich and ropa vieja, both packed with flavor and super satisfying without being too heavy.
Since the afternoon is all about relaxing at the beach, this lunch stop is flexible. You can take your time and enjoy a sit-down meal at Castro’s (the iced café con leche is also worth trying), or grab something quick nearby if you’re eager to stretch out on the sand. Either way, this is your moment to slow down and reset before soaking in the rest of the day.
Afternoon – Relax on a beach
It wouldn’t be a trip to Honolulu without carving out some time to embrace your inner beach bum fully. 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. Whether you want to stay close or take a short drive for a change of scenery, here are some of our favorite beach options:
- Waikiki Beach – The most famous beach on Oahu, and it’s right in the heart of Honolulu. It’s always buzzing with activity, perfect for people-watching, swimming, or just lying out with an iced coffee in hand.
- Kailua Beach – Known for its soft white sand and turquoise water, Kailua is absolutely stunning. It’s one of the most popular beaches on the island, so expect some crowds. About a 20–25 minute drive from town.
- Waimanalo Beach – Just as beautiful as Kailua, but usually way less crowded. A great option if you want something quieter, and it’s only about 25 minutes from Honolulu.
- Sandy Beach – This one’s about a 20-minute drive from Honolulu and is for wave lovers. It’s a favorite local spot for bodyboarding and surfing thanks to its strong shore break. Plus, there are food trucks nearby when you get hungry.
- North Shore Beaches – You saw a glimpse of these on the full-day tour, but if you’re up for another drive, the North Shore has some of the island’s best beaches. Top picks include Waimea Bay, Sunset Beach Park, Banzai Pipeline, and Shark’s Cove.
- Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve – The spot for snorkeling on Oahu—just 20 minutes from Honolulu, with crystal-clear water, vibrant coral, and tons of marine life. As a protected nature preserve, it requires a bit of planning: you must arrive before 1:30 pm, and advance reservations ($25 USD) are released two days prior here, with limited walk-ins available. It’s a bit more effort than other beaches, but totally worth it!
Prefer more action? Parasailing and scuba diving are also great ways to enjoy the water without sitting still.
Go 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!
Beginner-friendly scuba dive
If you’ve ever wanted to try scuba diving, this beginner-friendly scuba adventure in Honolulu is the perfect way to start—no certification needed! We gave it a go and were blown away by how easy and exciting it was. The instructor was calm and super encouraging, which made us feel totally at ease.
After a short beachside lesson, we dove into the Pacific and were surrounded by coral and tropical fish. We even spotted a sea turtle! The best part is that it’s all captured on GoPro to relive later!
Dip your toes into scuba diving and book this tour here!
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 – Enjoy while you’re out
If you’re still soaking up the beach vibes and catching the sunset, don’t rush back—many of Oahu’s top beaches have food trucks or casual beachfront spots where you can grab dinner right on the sand. It’s the perfect way to end a laid-back afternoon.
But if you’ve made your way back into town, we highly recommend Rigo Spanish Italian in Honolulu. This stylish spot dishes up incredible tapas, fresh pastas, and standout paella in a lively setting. It’s a little unexpected for Oahu, but trust us—it works. Definitely order a few small plates to share and a glass of wine to wind down the day just right.
Day 4
Morning – Hike the Diamond Head Crater
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. For $40, 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 from 760 feet (232 meters) up—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!
Lunch – Lulu’s
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.
Grab a shaded table overlooking the ocean and treat yourself to something hearty (and maybe a cold drink or two). The menu has a little bit of everything—burgers, poke bowls, fish tacos—and the vibe is exactly what you want after a morning of climbing: breezy, casual, and full of aloha. 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 – Relax on the beach
After a morning hike and a satisfying lunch, it’s time to slow things down again—beach style. Luckily, you won’t need to go far. Waikiki Beach, Queen’s Beach, and Kapiolani Beach are all nearby and perfect for a few lazy hours in the sun.
Whether you want to swim, read, nap under a palm tree, or just watch the surfers roll in, this stretch of coastline has the space and scenery for it all. Queen’s and Kapiolani tend to be a bit quieter than the main Waikiki strip, so they’re great if you’re looking for a more relaxed vibe.
Evening – Enjoy a sunset cruise
There’s nothing quite like a Hawaiian sunset, and one of the best ways to experience it is from the water. After a relaxing afternoon on the beach, we freshened up at the hotel and 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 for $36 USD, 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!
Dinner – Aloha Table Waikiki
After your sunset cruise, keep the evening going with a taste of local flavors at Aloha Table Waikiki. Just an 11-minute drive from the harbor, this cozy, open-air spot is the perfect place to unwind with Hawaiian comfort food and tropical drinks.
From garlic shrimp to loco moco and kalua pork, the menu highlights all the island favorites—perfect for wrapping up a day full of adventure and aloha. The atmosphere is relaxed but lively, with a neighborhood feel that makes you want to stay awhile.
We recommend making a reservation in advance, especially if you’re arriving right after sunset, since it tends to fill up quickly in the evening. It’s a great final stop before calling it a night!
Related Read: Looking for more activities to fill your itinerary? Check out our guide to the 10 best things to do on Oahu here!
Day 5
Morning – Go snorkeling with sea turtles
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 3,000 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 8:00 am start. It’s an unforgettable way to experience the ocean, especially if you’ve never tried diving before.
Check the schedule and secure this underwater adventure here!
Lunch – Paia Fish Market Waikiki
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. Think grilled fish plates, fish tacos, and buttery garlic fries—all packed with flavor and perfect for a post-dive refuel. It’s right in the heart of Waikiki, making it an easy stop before easing into your final afternoon in Honolulu.
Afternoon – Stroll through Waikiki’s shops
With just a little time left in the afternoon, we kept things simple 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.
Whether you’re looking for something small and meaningful or just want to window shop and soak up the atmosphere, it’s a laid-back way to wrap up your final full day in Honolulu.
Evening – Enjoy a traditional Luau
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the number of luaus in Hawaii. Some feel overly touristy, while others book out fast. We wanted something that felt authentic, memorable, and truly worth it, and this traditional luau was exactly what we were looking for!
The party starts at 5:30 pm, but pickups can begin as early as 3:55 pm, so be sure to factor that into your afternoon. (Heads up—this luau doesn’t run on Tuesdays or Saturdays, so if your final day lands on one of those, just swap the itinerary around to make it work.)
From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed with a lei and drink, then jumped into fun cultural activities like hula lessons, Polynesian tattoos, and weaving. It was a lively, hands-on intro to island traditions before dinner.
The feast was incredible—think kalua pork, sweet grilled pineapple, and a variety of other Polynesian dishes. Come hungry, because there’s plenty to try!
But the real standout was the evening performance. Through hula and fire-knife dancing, the performers brought Polynesian legends and warrior stories to life in a beautiful and powerful way. It felt like more than just entertainment—it was a celebration of culture and history.
Pricing varies depending on your seating choice, but if your budget allows, we recommend the Royal Package. It includes the best seats, four drink tickets, first access to the buffet, and a premium souvenir gift. That said, even from the back row, this experience is totally worth it and the perfect way to wrap up your five-day trip!
Reserve your Luau tickets now and pay later when you book here!
Where to Stay in Honolulu, Hawaii
Now that you have the perfect itinerary planned, you need somewhere comfortable to stay! There are many different areas you can stay in Honolulu. We stayed near Waikiki Beach and found it very convenient to reach Honolulu’s top activities. If these hotels still have availability for your dates, I’ll leave my top recommendations below for a luxury, mid-range, or budget stay.
Luxury – $$$
Hilton Grand Vacations Club at Hilton Hawaiian Village is a guaranteed luxury stay! The hotel is just steps from Waikiki Beach and close to downtown. In true Hilton fashion, the rooms are upscale, and the staff takes care of every need. You can enjoy the onsite pools, golf course, 10 different restaurants, or spa.
Prices vary by season but average around $450 USD – $650 USD per night. Check prices and book this stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
If you’re looking for a comfortable stay with a great location, Hyatt Place Waikiki Beach is my pick! You don’t have to break the bank to stay within walking distance of Waikiki Beach, rooms get as low as $180 USD (although ocean view rooms are much more expensive!). Or you can enjoy the pool, fitness center, and city center from the hotel, too.
Check availability and book this stay on Booking.com.
Budget – $
Aqua Aloha Surf Waikiki is a budget hotel that doesn’t skimp on quality! They offer moderate, superior, or deluxe double rooms that are well-kept, clean, and have everything you need for a comfortable stay. Including a pool and rooms with private balconies!
Prices range from $120 USD to $200 USD, which isn’t bad considering the location. Check prices and book a room on Booking.com.
For even more options, check out all the hotels in Honolulu here.
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!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
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, and we found it to be the perfect 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 USA blogs! We have even more guides on incredible destinations that can be useful as you plan your next vacation. Here are some related blogs to get you started:
10 Best Things to do in Honolulu, Hawaii