Honolulu Hawaii 2 Day Itinerary
Day 1: Exploring Iconic Honolulu
Morning:
- Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Kona Kitchen, known for its Hawaiian fusion dishes and beautiful ocean views.
- Head to Waikiki Beach for sunbathing, surfing or just relaxing by the iconic Waikiki shoreline. Don’t forget your sunscreen!
Afternoon:
- Visit the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, an important historical site marking the events of December 7, 1941.
- Explore the USS Arizona Memorial and the Battleship Missouri Memorial. Remember that advance tickets are recommended due to high demand.
Evening:
- Have an early dinner at Helena’s Hawaiian Food, a local favorite specializing in traditional Hawaiian cuisine.
- Catch a stunning sunset over Waikiki at Kuhio Beach Park or Diamond Head State Monument (bring a flashlight for the return trip).
Overnight:
- Stay at The Modern Honolulu, a trendy hotel in Waikiki offering a vibrant poolscape and ocean views, or opt for more budget-friendly accommodations like Hostelling International - Honolulu or Waikiki Beachside Hostel.
Day 2: Nature and Culture in Honolulu
Morning:
- Fuel up with a breakfast at Café Kaila or IHOP Waikiki, both offering a variety of breakfast options.
- Visit the Honolulu Museum of Art to immerse yourself in Hawaiian and Asian art, as well as contemporary works from around the world.
Afternoon:
- Take a scenic drive through Diamond Head Crater for breathtaking views of Waikiki and the Pacific Ocean. (Wear sturdy shoes, bring water, and allow 1.5 - 2 hours for the hike.)
- Head to Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve for snorkeling among colorful fish and coral reefs (entry fee applies, arrive early to secure parking).
Evening:
- Have dinner at The Pig & The Lady, a Vietnamese fusion restaurant in downtown Honolulu.
- Visit the International Market Place for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Overnight:
- Return to your chosen hotel in Waikiku or explore other neighborhoods like Kaimuki or Makiki for a different experience ([Hotel La Croix Honolulu](https://hotella croixhonolulu.com/), Hotel Renew are good options).
Transportation:
- The city’s bus system, TheBus, offers an affordable way to get around Honolulu. You can also rent scooters or bikes for a more active experience (ensure you follow traffic laws and wear helmets). Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available.
Tips:
- Pack a reusable water bottle, as tap water in Hawaii is safe to drink.
- Respect cultural sites by dressing appropriately and following posted rules.
- Learn some Hawaiian phrases to interact with locals (Aloha means both “hello” and “goodbye”; Mahalo means “thank you”).
- Enjoy your stay in Honolulu!