Start your trip by immersing yourself in the energy of Waikiki. In the morning, hit the beach and soak up the Hawaiian sun while the kids build sandcastles and splash in the crystal-clear waters. After a delicious lunch of Hawaiian poke, head to the Waikiki Aquarium to marvel at colorful marine life. As the evening approaches, take a leisurely stroll down Kalakaua Avenue and enjoy the lively atmosphere, street performers, and browse through the unique shops.
Waikiki Beach: Free, 3-4 hours
Waikiki Aquarium: $14/adult, $6/child, 2 hours
Kalakaua Avenue: Free, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Koko Head Cafe: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Koko Head Cafe, known for its creative menu featuring local ingredients. Indulge in dishes like their famous Cornflake French Toast or Bacon and Tomato Jam Scramble. The average cost for a meal at Koko Head Cafe is about $15-20 per person.
Kua 'Aina: For a satisfying lunch, head to Kua 'Aina, a local favorite known for their mouthwatering burgers and sandwiches. Enjoy classics like the Avocado Bacon Cheeseburger or the Teriyaki Chicken Sandwich. The average cost for a meal at Kua 'Aina is about $10-15 per person.
Alan Wong's: Treat yourself to a memorable dinner experience at Alan Wong's, a renowned restaurant offering upscale Hawaiian cuisine with a contemporary twist. Indulge in dishes like the Ginger Crusted Onaga or the Macadamia Nut Crusted Lamb Chops. The average cost for a meal at Alan Wong's is about $80-100 per person.
Tuesday, October 10: Pearl Harbor History
Embark on a historical journey as you visit Pearl Harbor. Start the day early to secure tickets for the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, where you can pay homage to the USS Arizona and learn about the events of December 7, 1941. Spend the afternoon exploring the Battleship Missouri Memorial and the Pacific Aviation Museum. In the evening, head back to Waikiki and enjoy a festive Hawaiian luau.
Pearl Harbor National Memorial: Free, but reserve tickets in advance, 4-5 hours
Conquer the iconic Diamond Head Crater for breathtaking views of Oahu's coastline. Start early to beat the crowds and embark on a scenic hike to the summit. Enjoy a picnic lunch with panoramic vistas before descending. In the afternoon, head to Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve for some snorkeling and exploration of the incredible marine life. End the day with a leisurely sunset walk along the Waikiki Beach Walk.
Diamond Head State Monument: $5/vehicle, $1/pedestrian, 3-4 hours
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve: $12/adult, $5/child, 2-3 hours
Waikiki Beach Walk: Free, 1-2 hours
Thursday, October 12: North Shore Adventure
Embark on a scenic drive to the North Shore, renowned for its legendary surf breaks. Start the day by exploring Waimea Valley and hiking to Waimea Falls, where you can cool off with a refreshing swim. Enjoy a delicious shrimp plate lunch from one of the famous food trucks along the way. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beautiful beaches of the North Shore, including Sunset Beach and Banzai Pipeline. Catch the sunset at Haleiwa Harbor and indulge in shaved ice for a sweet treat.
Waimea Valley: $20/adult, $12/child, 3-4 hours
Shrimp Truck Lunch: $10-15/person, 1 hour
North Shore Beaches: Free, 3-4 hours
Haleiwa Harbor: Free, 1-2 hours
Shaved Ice: $4-6, 30 minutes
Restaurants
Koko Head Cafe offers a delectable breakfast menu with creative twists on classic dishes, such as their mouthwatering Cornflake French Toast. Average cost for a meal is about $15-20 per person.
For lunch, head to Marukame Udon, where you can slurp on freshly made udon noodles in a variety of tasty broth options. Average cost for a meal is about $10-15 per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner at Alan Wong's Honolulu, known for its innovative Hawaiian cuisine using locally sourced ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about $70-100 per person.
Friday, October 13: Polynesian Cultural Experience
Immerse yourself in the rich cultures of the Pacific at the Polynesian Cultural Center. Spend the day exploring authentic villages, watching traditional performances, and participating in engaging activities. Enjoy a luau buffet dinner, followed by the stunning evening show, "Ha: Breath of Life." End the night with a relaxing walk along Laie Point to admire the breathtaking coastal views.
Polynesian Cultural Center: $109.95/adult, $84.95/child, full day
Aloha Breakfast Cafe: Enjoy a delicious breakfast at Aloha Breakfast Cafe, known for their mouthwatering pancakes and fluffy omelettes. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
Ono Seafood: If you're craving a tasty lunch, head to Ono Seafood for their famous poke bowls made with fresh, local ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Rainbow Drive-In: For a classic Hawaiian dinner experience, dine at Rainbow Drive-In, a local favorite famous for their plate lunches featuring savory grilled meats and tasty sides. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
Saturday, October 14: Water Adventures
Get ready for an exciting day filled with water adventures. Start with a dolphin encounter at Sea Life Park, where you can swim alongside these playful creatures. Afterward, head to Kailua Beach for some kayaking or paddleboarding in its turquoise waters. In the evening, experience a magical sunset catamaran sail along the coast, complete with Hawaiian music and delicious pupus (appetizers).
Sea Life Park: $39.99/adult, $29.99/child, 3-4 hours
Kailua Beach Rentals: $30-40/person, 2-3 hours
Sunset Catamaran Sail: $75-100/person, 2 hours
Restaurants
Morning Brew Cafe: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Morning Brew Cafe, where you can enjoy a variety of freshly brewed coffees, hearty omelettes, and mouthwatering pastries. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
Ono Seafood: For a scrumptious lunch, head to Ono Seafood, a local favorite known for its mouthwatering poke bowls. Choose from a variety of fresh fish and toppings to create your perfect poke bowl. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Roy's Waikiki: Indulge in a memorable dinner at Roy's Waikiki, a renowned Hawaiian fusion restaurant. Savor dishes inspired by the flavors of the islands, such as misoyaki butterfish and blackened island ahi. Average cost for a meal is about $50 per person.
Sunday, October 15: Lively Honolulu
Spend your last day exploring the vibrant city of Honolulu. Start the morning with a visit to the Bishop Museum, where you can delve into the rich history and culture of Hawaii. Afterward, take a stroll through the Honolulu Zoo to encounter a variety of exotic animals. Indulge in a delicious seafood feast for lunch at one of the local restaurants. In the afternoon, explore the trendy neighborhood of Chinatown and browse through its unique shops and art galleries. End your trip with a memorable sunset at Magic Island.
For a delicious breakfast, head to Eggs 'n Things, a popular local eatery known for their fluffy pancakes and omelettes. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
For a tasty lunch, try The Pig and the Lady, a Vietnamese fusion restaurant offering a variety of flavorful dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
For a memorable dinner, dine at Alan Wong's Restaurant, a renowned establishment serving contemporary Hawaiian cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about $75 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Hawai with your family, don't miss out on some off-the-beaten-path attractions and local favorites. Visit the Dole Plantation on Oahu's North Shore for a fun pineapple-themed experience, including the famous pineapple plantation maze. Admire the beautiful Manoa Falls and take a refreshing hike through the lush rainforest in the Manoa Valley. For a unique underwater adventure, check out the Atlantis Submarines tour, which takes you on a submarine journey to explore the vibrant coral reefs and marine life.