Honolulu Hawaii 4 Day Itinerary

4-Day Itinerary for Honolulu, Hawaii

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Downtown Honolulu

Activities

  1. Pearl Harbor National Memorial: Start your day with a visit to this historic site. Remember the events of December 7, 1941, at the USS Arizona Memorial. Book your tickets in advance.
  2. Iolani Palace: Explore Hawaii’s royal past at Iolani Palace, the only royal palace in the U.S.
  3. King Kamehameha Statue and Honolulu Hale (City Hall): These iconic landmarks are just a short walk from Iolani Palace.
  4. Waikiki Beach: End your day with a sunset stroll on Waikiki Beach. Don’t miss the famous Duke Kahanamoku Statue.

Where to Eat

  1. Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck (North Shore): For lunch, head to North Shore for some delicious garlic shrimp at Giovanni’s.
  2. Helena’s Hawaiian Food (Kaimuki): Try traditional Hawaiian cuisine like kalua pig and laulau at Helena’s.
  3. The Pig & The Lady (Downtown Honolulu): For a modern Viet-Cajun fusion experience, visit The Pig & The Lady.

Where to Stay

Things to Know

  • Hawaiian shave ice is a popular treat, but it’s not the same as a snow cone. It’s made with finely shaved ice and flavored syrups.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting sacred sites.
  • Traffic can be heavy in Honolulu, so allow extra time for travel.

Day 2: Exploring Waikiki and Surrounding Areas

Activities

  1. Waikiki Aquarium: Learn about Hawaii’s marine life at this oceanfront aquarium.
  2. Diamond Head State Monument: Hike to the summit of Diamond Head for stunning views of Waikiki and the Pacific Ocean.
  3. Honolulu Zoo: Spend the afternoon exploring the Honolulu Zoo, home to over 1,200 animals.
  4. Surf Lessons or Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP): Try your hand at surfing or SUP in Waikiki. Many schools offer lessons for beginners.

Where to Eat

  1. Morimoto Asia Waikiki (International Market Place): Enjoy modern Japanese cuisine with Asian influences.
  2. Tropics Ice Cream (Kuhio Ave.): Cool down with a scoop of shave ice or an ice cream treat from Tropics.
  3. Leonard’s Bakery (Kapiolani Blvd.): Grab a malasada, a Portuguese doughnut, from Leonard’s.

Day 3: North Shore Adventure

Activities

  1. Dole Plantation: Spend the morning at Dole Plantation, exploring gardens, enjoying pineapple ice cream, and riding the Pineapple Express Train.
  2. Sunset Beach or Waimea Bay: Visit these iconic North Shore beaches to surf, swim, or just relax on the sand.
  3. Polynesian Cultural Center: Immerse yourself in the cultures of Polynesia at this interactive center. Book your tickets here.

Where to Eat

  1. Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck (North Shore): If you missed it on Day 1, be sure to try Giovanni’s garlic shrimp on North Shore.
  2. Kahuku Grill: For seafood and Hawaiian-style cuisine, visit Kahuku Grill.
  3. Haleiwa Joe’s (North Shore): Enjoy casual dining with ocean views at Haleiwa Joe’s.

Day 4: Relaxation and Departure

Activities

  1. Spa Treatment: Start your day with a relaxing spa treatment at your hotel or a local spa.
  2. Shopping: Explore the boutiques, outlets, and markets in Waikiki for souvenirs and unique finds.
  3. Beach Time: Spend your final hours in Hawaii soaking up the sun on Waikiki Beach.

Where to Eat

  1. Buzz’s Original Steakhouse (Waikiki): For a memorable farewell dinner, visit Buzz’s for Hawaiian steak and local seafood.
  2. Rainbow Drive-In (Mapunapuna): If you have time before your flight, stop by Rainbow Drive-In for some classic Hawaiian plate lunches.