If we’re just talking about a quick walking tour of Honolulu, you can see all the most iconic spots – like Diamond Head and Wakiki – in only a couple of days. However, we would recommend staying for at least five so you can explore not only the city of Honolulu but the rest of Oahu as well. As the most populated island in Hawaii, Oahu is the epicenter of Hawaiian tourism and culture, so staying for five to seven days is the best way to avoid any FOMO.
You should spend at least one or two days in Honolulu, just taking in the city and checking out some of the cultural and historical sites in the area. Besides Diamond Head and Waikiki Beach, we also recommend visiting Pearl Harbor, swimming with the fishes in the Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, hiking out to gorgeous Manoa Falls, and taking a tour of Iolani Palace, the former home of the Hawaiian Royal Family. Honolulu also has some of the best restaurants on the island, including the Rainbow Drive-In, Duke’s Waikiki, and Rainbow’s End Snack Shop.
Once you’ve had your fill of Hawaiian city life, you can explore the rest of Oahu. Head to the windward side of the island and take a laid-back beach day in Kailua, just a 20-minute drive from Honolulu. You should also head to the island’s North Shore to see some charming seaside villages – we especially recommend Haleiwa Town, the best-preserved surf community on Oahu. Finally, take a long hike through Waimea Valley, a stunning nature preserve on the North Shore. Make sure you catch an authentic luau before you leave to experience real Hawaiian hospitality.
To make the most of your trip, check out our Self-Guided Honolulu Walking Tour, or you can sign up for Action+ and gain access to over 100 tours for a single yearly price.
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