Honolulu, Hawaii-3-day-itinerary

Day 1: Beaches and Local Eats

Morning

Afternoon

  • Waikiki Beach: Spend the morning soaking up the sun on Waikiki Beach, one of the most iconic beaches in the world.
  • Lunch: Grab a bite to eat at Helena’s Hawaiian Food, a local institution serving traditional Hawaiian dishes like laulau and kalua pig.

Evening

  • Sunset: Watch the sunset at Diamond Head State Monument, an iconic volcanic crater with breathtaking views.
  • Dinner: Enjoy a romantic dinner at The Pig and The Lady, a trendy restaurant serving creative, farm-to-table Vietnamese fusion cuisine.

Things to Know:

  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions.
  • Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
  • Learn some basic Hawaiian phrases like “aloha” (hello) and “mahalo” (thank you).

Transportation:

  • Rent a car or take a taxi/Uber to get around Honolulu.
  • Consider purchasing a Waikiki Trolley pass for convenient transportation between popular attractions.

Day 2: History and Culture

Morning

  • Pearl Harbor and USS Arizona Memorial: Visit the historic Pearl Harbor and pay respects at the USS Arizona Memorial, a poignant tribute to the lives lost during the attack on December 7, 1941.
  • Lunch: Grab a bite to eat at Nico’s Pier 38, a waterfront eatery serving fresh seafood and local favorites.

Afternoon

  • Iolani Palace: Take a guided tour of Iolani Palace, the only royal palace in the United States, showcasing Hawaiian history and culture.
  • Bishop Museum: Explore the Bishop Museum, the largest museum in Hawaii, featuring exhibits on Hawaiian history, science, and culture.

Evening

  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Alan Wong’s Honolulu, a renowned restaurant serving contemporary Hawaiian cuisine using fresh, local ingredients.
  • Luau: Experience a traditional Hawaiian luau at Paradise Cove Luau, featuring live music, hula dancing, and a delicious buffet feast.

Tips:

  • Book tickets for Pearl Harbor and Iolani Palace in advance to avoid long wait times.
  • Be respectful of Hawaiian culture and history when visiting sacred sites and museums.

Day 3: Outdoor Adventures

Morning

  • Hanauma Bay Snorkeling: Explore the underwater world at Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, a protected marine sanctuary and one of the best snorkeling spots in Hawaii.
  • Lunch: Grab a picnic lunch or eat at Ono Seafood, a casual seafood restaurant with fresh, sustainable options.

Afternoon

  • Manoa Falls Hike: Take a moderate hike to Manoa Falls, a lush, tropical trail leading to a stunning 150-foot waterfall.
  • Tropical Farms Macadamia Nut Farm: Visit the Tropical Farms Macadamia Nut Farm, a working farm offering tours and tastings of Hawaii’s famous macadamia nuts.

Evening

  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Town Kaimuki, a trendy restaurant serving creative, farm-to-table cuisine using local ingredients.
  • Stargazing: End your trip with some stargazing on the beach or at a secluded spot, taking in the breathtaking night sky of Honolulu.

Other Things to Know:

  • Be mindful of ocean conditions and snorkeling safety at Hanauma Bay.
  • Respect Hawaii’s fragile ecosystem and natural resources during outdoor adventures.
  • Don’t forget to try some local coffee and chocolate during your trip!