The Best Oahu Itinerary: 3, 5, or 7 Perfect Days on Oahu

Aloha! Planning a trip to the beautiful, bustling island of Oahu – also known as “The Gathering Place”? With this Oahu itinerary, you’re in for the ultimate week of outdoor adventures, white-sand beaches, rich culture, and delicious local food.

Between snorkeling with tropical fish and sea turtles, dining at world-class restaurants in Honolulu, visiting historic Pearl Harbor, hiking along coastal trails, eating at delicious food trucks, and relaxing on North Shore beaches – this itinerary for up to 7 days on Oahu covers all the best things to do, see, and eat!

• Which areas to stay in and why
• How to get around Oahu
• Detailed daily plans
• The best things to do on Oahu
• The most delicious food trucks, restaurants, shave ice shops, and bars
• And much more!

Oahu Itinerary Overview: 3, 5, or 7 Days

Whether you have 3, 5, or 7 days on Oahu, this itinerary has you covered! Here’s a quick breakdown of the ideal Oahu itinerary, if you have up to 7 full days!

• Day 1: North Shore
• Day 2: North Shore
• Day 3: North Shore
• Day 4: Windward Side/East Coast
• Day 5: Southeast Coast
• Day 6: Honolulu
• Day 7: Honolulu

Want a printable copy of this Oahu itinerary? Grab yours here!

How to Use this Oahu Itinerary

This Oahu itinerary covers 7 full days. However, if you’re island-hopping (maybe you’re visiting Kauai or Maui too?) or just pressed for time, you can break this Oahu itinerary down into 3, 4, 5, or 6 days. But note: I wouldn’t recommend any less than 3 full days on Oahu!

To customize this itinerary, just mix and match which daily plans you like best.

For example, with only 3 full days, you could choose either the North Shore or Honolulu as your base, and take one of the day trips detailed under Day 4 or Day 5.

That said, if you follow this Oahu itinerary exactly, you’ll spend Days 1-3 on the North Shore. On the morning of Day 4, you’ll pack all your things into your rental car, spend the day on the Windward Side, and check into your Waikiki hotel after dinner. On Day 5, you’ll take a half-day trip to Hanauma Bay and Koko Head. And finally, you’ll spend Days 6 and 7 in/around Honolulu.

Who is this Oahu Itinerary for? 

My Oahu itinerary focuses on four key areas: nature adventures; fantastic food and drink; relaxation time; and culture and history. (With a bigger emphasis on the first two!)

If your idea of the perfect Oahu vacation involves hiking, snorkeling, beach-hopping, eating fresh seafood, sipping on craft cocktails, and taking in as many breathtaking landscapes as possible, then this is the itinerary for you!

On the other hand, if you’d rather spend your vacation relaxing at a luxurious beach resort in Ko Olina, on the sunny and dry Leeward Coast, this is not the Oahu itinerary for you. In that case, all you really need to do is book flights to Honolulu, a room at the Four Seasons at Ko Olina or Marriott’s Ko Olina Beach Club, and a private airport shuttle.

Transportation: How to Get Around Oahu

Now, let’s talk about how to get around Oahu. Depending on your specific Oahu itinerary, you can…

• Rent a car (recommended if you want to explore the whole island!),
• Arrange private shuttles to/from the airport (click here to book your private shuttle service),
• Take TheBus (especially if you’re just staying in/around Honolulu),
• Use Uber,
• Or a combo of all of these options!

Find all the details you need to know below.

Rental Car

The most convenient way to explore the island of Oahu is by rental car – particularly if you plan to spend most of your time outside of Honolulu (the city). With a rental car, you’ll have the freedom to explore the island at your own pace, on your own schedule.

My boyfriend and I chose to rent a car so we could easily explore the entire island and discover hidden gems… I can’t imagine doing it any other way!

For our one-week Oahu vacation, we spent $509 on our rental car, including fees for an extra driver and extra insurance. We rented a 7-seater SUV so we could fit all of our luggage (we don’t travel light, clearly), including two surfboards.

This is the website I always use to find the best rental car deals.

Depending on the type of car you choose and the timing of your visit (high season rates are more expensive!), you can expect to spend between $200 and $1,000 for a one-week car rental on Oahu.

Also, keep in mind that most hotels on Oahu charge hefty overnight parking fees – especially in the city.

This is my favorite website for scoring great deals on rental cars. Click here to book your rental car! *Make sure to use “HONOLULU” as your pick-up/drop-off location. “Oahu” won’t return any results.

Important note: Rental car break-ins are very common on Oahu. Avoid leaving valuables in your rental car – especially if you’re parking in an unattended parking lot, such as in public beach parking lots, shopping centers, etc. (Guarded and gated places like Hanauma Bay are less risky.) At the very least, make sure valuables are out of sight.

TheBus

TheBus is Oahu’s public transportation system, providing cheap tickets and extensive coverage around the island. Here are the routes and timetables.

In 2024, here’s what TheBus fares cost:

• Single fare (2.5 hours of unlimited transfers): $3
• 24 hours (unlimited use): $7.50
• 7 days (unlimited use): $30

You can pay with cash for single fares when you hop on TheBus.

If you’re going to use the bus often, you can get a HOLO Card (which has a one-time card fee of $2) and load it up with cash to cover your 1-day or 7-day passes; load your card online, using your phone, or at local retailers.

Shuttles

If you mostly plan to stay in one place, relaxing by the beach/pool, then you might want to book a shuttle to/from the airport.

Skip the taxi line and book a private shuttle ahead of time. Click here to book your private shuttle.

You can also book shared shuttles here!

Uber

You can easily catch Ubers in/around Honolulu and Ko Olina, heading anywhere on the island.

However, it’s trickier to catch Ubers from quieter areas like the North Shore. If you’re staying outside of Honolulu or Ko Olina, do not rely on Uber as your main mode of transportation!

FYI: According to Uber, the average price for a trip between Waikiki and the Honolulu Airport is $32. Between Ko Olina and Honolulu Airport, you can expect fares to start around $30 and vary depending on traffic, time of day, etc.

Where to Stay in Oahu (and Why)

There are three main areas to consider staying in on the island of Oahu: the North Shore, the city of Honolulu (and more specifically, the neighborhood of Waikiki), and Ko Olina.

Let’s quickly dive into these three areas – and the best accommodation options in each one.

North Shore

The North Shore of Oahu is where you’ll find chilled-out surf towns, gorgeous beaches, food trucks, cute cafés, big wave surfing (between November and March), and a local vibe.

While the North Shore is popular among travelers, it has a much more authentic, rural, and relaxed feeling than both Ko Olina and Waikiki.

My main goal with my Oahu itinerary was to spend most of my time on the North Shore, to experience authentic Hawaiian surf culture, beautiful beaches, and a relaxed vibe. And that’s exactly what I got!

Best Places to Stay on the North Shore of Oahu

• Turtle Bay Resort ($$$$)
• Courtyard by Marriott Oahu North Shore ($$$)
• North Shore Garden Studio ($$)
• Other North Shore vacation rentals ($$): We stayed in a cute vacation rental on the North Shore, right by beautiful Sunset Beach and Banzai Pipeline… During the Vans Pipeline Masters competition. How good?! Our place even included free parking, which is a very luxurious perk on this island!

If I were to visit Oahu over again, I’d plan to stay an extra two nights on the North Shore at Turtle Bay Resort for some much-needed relaxation time! You might want to do the same since this itinerary is all go-go-go.

Note: If you book a short-term vacation rental, research to ensure it’s operating legally. There are strict short-term rental laws in some areas of Oahu. The last thing you want is to arrive and find out the rental you booked has since been shut down. This has happened to many before. (In case you needed another way to justify splurging on a stay at Turtle Bay… you’re welcome!)

Honolulu (Waikiki)

Honolulu is the state capital of Hawaii, and the main city on the island. And Waikiki? It’s an iconic neighborhood within Honolulu, known for Waikiki Beach and the world-famous Hawaiian swimmer and surfer Duke Kahanamoku (A.K.A. “the father of modern surfing”).

Waikiki is where most first-time Oahu travelers choose to stay. But in my opinion, staying in Honolulu for your entire Oahu vacation would be a huge mistake! To me, it feels incredibly touristy and artificial – like its sole purpose is to cater to tourists. And it’s also overly expensive. But there are some redeeming qualities…

So, stay for two days. See the “must-sees” (like Pearl Harbor and Waikiki Beach), explore the trendy Kaka’Ako neighborhood, and eat at some amazing restaurants.

Best Places to Stay in Waikiki, Honolulu

• The Ritz-Carlton Residences ($$$$)
• Halekulani ($$$$)
• The Royal Hawaiian, A Luxury Collection Resort ($$$)
• Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa ($$$)
• Romer Waikiki at The Ambassador ($$): This is where I chose to stay, as all I wanted was a nice-enough place to lay my head and a convenient location – nothing more. I was too busy adventuring to even go look at the pool.

Important note: Most hotels and resorts in Waikiki charge daily mandatory resort fees (and parking fees) on top of their actual room rates, which can blow out the prices of accommodation significantly. They’re usually about $50/day. Research any potential fees before you book to avoid surprises!

Hot tip: If you are planning to get a rental car, you may want to reserve it only for the North Shore portion of your trip so you can avoid paying hefty Honolulu hotel parking fees and trying to find parking spots around the city as you explore! Then, use TheBus or Uber to explore Honolulu for a few days, and to travel back to the airport for your departing flight.

Ko Olina

Ko Olina is a tranquil resort paradise located on Oahu’s sunny, dry west coast.

Known for its pristine golden-sand beaches, stunning turquoise waters, swaying palm trees, and peaceful vibes, Ko Olina is the place to go for a luxurious beach vacation. You’ll never want to leave… And with so many amenities, you won’t have to.

If you’re traveling as a family, this is the best area to stay in.

At Ko Olina, you’ll find four huge man-made ocean lagoons, home to coral reefs, colorful fish, and green sea turtles! The water is calm here; perfect for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

Best Places to Stay in Ko Olina

• Four Seasons at Ko Olina ($$$$)
• Marriott’s Ko Olina Beach Club ($$$$)

The Perfect 3, 5, or 7 Day Oahu Itinerary

Phew! Now that the logistics are out of the way, let’s dive into how you should spend your time on Oahu!

Hot tip: Want a printable copy of this Oahu itinerary? Get it here!

Oahu Itinerary: Day 1 (North Shore)

Drive up Kamehameha Highway

From Honolulu Airport, there are certainly faster ways to reach the North Shore than driving up the eastern coast via the Kamehameha Highway. But we want to take the scenic route, don’t we?

I practically had to pick up my jaw from the car floor as we drove up the Kam Highway. On one side, the turquoise Pacific waters stretch forever. And on the other, the rugged, green Koʻolau Mountains tower above. All around, tall palm trees sway in the breeze. Rain or shine, it’s insanely beautiful.

From Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, you’ll take the H1 to the 63 to the 83. Click here for a sample Google Maps route, which includes a few stops along the way – but not too many, since it’s your first day and you’ll probably be tired from your flight.

Grab a Poke Bowl at Foodland

Hungry? It’s time for your first Hawaiian poke bowl!

On your way up the Kamehameha Highway, stop at Foodland in Kaneohe. This is obligatory!

Every local’s favorite place for poke is Foodland. (Yes, it’s a grocery store. And yes, the name isn’t the most appetizing. But ignore those facts.) Foodland’s poke is made fresh daily. It’s delicious. And on an island where everything is expensive, this poke is super affordable.

So walk up to the poke counter and order a bowl of two-choice poke for about $10.99. (My go-to order is Spicy Maui Onion Ahi and Limu Ahi, with white rice, and topped with furikake.) If you’re unsure what to get, the attendants will usually offer you samples!

The grab-and-go sushi and musubi at Foodland are also fantastic value and super tasty.

While you’re there, pick up some local craft beers and POG (passionfruit, orange, and guava juice – which mixes fantastically with local rum, by the way) to load up your fridge. Plus snacks and some li hing (dried plum) candy for later too. You’ll be glad you did!

Hot tip: Foodland is always a great stop before you head to the beach. Poke and sushi picnic? Yes, please. But also, don’t forget to try out some mom-and-pop poke shops as you explore!

Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden

Okay, on to visit one of the most beautiful places in Hawaii: the Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden.

This stunning botanical garden spans 400 acres, offers all the Jurassic Park vibes (even though the movie was actually shot next door at Kualoa Ranch), and features tropical plants from different regions of the world, including Hawaii (of course), Polynesia, the Philippines, India, and beyond. The name Ho’omaluhia means “a peaceful refuge.”

Plus, the views of the Koʻolau Range are fantastic. This is one of Oahu’s most famous photography spots for a reason.

Simply drive through the garden, to the end of the access road, and back (this will take about 25 minutes). Or pull over at any of the designated parking lots throughout and go for a stroll.

Check out this map of the garden to plan your visit. Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden is open from 9 am to 4 pm daily and is free to enter!

Adventure Tour at Kualoa Ranch

Kualoa Ranch is one of the most-visited places on Oahu, thanks to its sacred Ka’a’awa Valley scenery and reputation as Hollywood’s “Hawaii Backlot.”

Dozens of productions, including Jurassic Park, Godzilla, Fifty First Dates, Kong: Skull Island, and Jumanji, have been filmed here.

Whether you have time today, or if you want to come back another day, there are all sorts of fun (albeit, touristy) adventures to embark on here, like:

• UTV Raptor Tour
• Jurassic Valley Zipline Tour
• Hollywood Movie Sites Tour
• Horseback Riding Tour

Another option is to pull over at Kualoa Regional Park to admire the views of the mountains and the nearby island, Mokoliʻi (also known as Chinaman’s Hat). Or just keep on driving up Kam Highway!

Eat at the Kahuku Food Trucks

Whether it’s lunch or dinner time, the historic Kahuku Sugar Mill is your next stop! Here, you’ll find an epic bunch of food trucks, food stalls, and restaurants.

Feel like burgers? Go to Seven Brothers! I loved the Teri-Samoa burger. The patty is dipped in caramelized teriyaki sauce before it’s grilled (are you drooling yet?), then topped with grilled pineapple and onions, crispy bacon, and house sauce.

When it comes to food trucks, Da Bald Guy (for braised kalbi beef, pan-fried poke, or garlic shrimp – served with rice and mac salad!), Eighty Chicken Sandwiches, Ry’s Poke Shack, and Zephanie’s Pizza are the ones to try!

Then, beeline it to Kahuku Beer Garden & Bottle Shop (to-go food in hand!), order a craft beer on tap, sit down, and enjoy!

Check Into Your North Shore Accommodation

Now that you’ve reached the North Shore, check into your hotel or vacation rental and drop off your things.

If there’s still time, head down to Sunset Beach to watch the sunset. Then, drive into the town of Haleiwa for an easy dinner – or eat at one of the Turtle Bay restaurants if you’re staying there. You have a big day tomorrow!

Oahu Itinerary: Day 2 (North Shore)

Breakfast at Sunrise Shack

You’ve probably already heard of this iconic yellow shack on the North Shore, thanks to its delicious açai bowls and good vibes.

Created by four local pro surfers with a passion for healthy living, this little shack captures the spirit of Aloha and serves up all the whole-food goodness.

For breakfast, order a Coconut Bullet Coffee and a Monkey Bowl (which features the all-time-best flavor combo of banana, coconut, peanut butter, dates, cinnamon, and cacao!) – and thank me later!

Take your pick between the two North Shore locations: Sunset Beach or Shark’s Cove.

I couldn’t resist coming back a second time for that coffee…

Swim with Sharks (Cage-Free)

Want to go swimming with some locals?

And by locals, I mean Galapagos sharks – and maybe even a Tiger shark, if you’re lucky.

This Swim with Sharks (Cage-Free) Tour is one of the most unforgettable things to do on the North Shore.

From Haleiwa Harbor, you’ll set out for the deep blue sea on an exhilarating adventure of a lifetime. Accompanied by your expert guides – including a safety swimmer and a photographer – you’ll swim cage-free with sharks that are “harmless to humans,” according to the family-run tour company.

The tour includes free photos and videos, so you can be completely present as you swim.

You can book Swim with Sharks Tour at 8 am, 10 am, 12 pm, or 2 pm – so you can easily fit this experience into your Oahu itinerary.

There’s also a cage-diving option if that makes you feel more comfortable! Click here to book your Oahu Shark Cage Dive.

TBH: I wasn’t brave enough to go on this Swim with Sharks (Cage-Free) Tour, but my best friend did. She said it was one of the coolest things she’s ever done – and while it was a little scary, she felt safe the whole time thanks to the expert guides. I’ll take her word for it. The photo above is hers!

Take a Surf Lesson (or Go Surfing)

If swimming with sharks isn’t your thing, maybe you want to try your hand at surfing instead? What better place is there to learn than the beautiful Hawaiian Islands – where modern surfing originated?

Head out on this 2-hour North Shore Surf Lesson with a local surfer (who is also a professional lifeguard). You’ll learn how to read the waves, how to paddle, how to pop up, and how to ride a wave – while receiving personalized attention and tips along the way.

Click here to book your North Shore Surf Lesson.

There are also plenty of surfboard rental shops in Haleiwa (like Surf N Sea and Haleiwa Surf Shop), offering beginner foamies and performance boards, starting at $30/day.

Another fun water activity would be this Stand-Up Paddleboard (or Kayak) Tour of the Anahulu River and Haleiwa Bay.

Lunch at Kono’s North Shore

Kono’s is one of the most iconic eateries on the island, known for its Kalua pork (which is traditionally wrapped in native ti or banana leaves and slow-roasted in an underground pit called an imu).

At Kono’s, I ordered the Old School sandwich – with 12-hour slow-roasted Kalua pork, guava BBQ sauce, grilled onions, and slaw. So succulent and delish!

If you happen to stop in for breakfast another day, go for one of the breakfast burritos (A.K.A. Bombers) with Kalua pork.

Beach Time

Spend another afternoon relaxing at the North Shore beach of your choice.

If you’re staying at Turtle Bay Resort, you’re going to want to take advantage of the seven stunning beaches there. Obviously!

Laniakea Beach, Waimea Bay Beach, Ehukai Beach, and Sunset Beach are a few of the non-resort options on the North Shore. They’re all stunning… It may just come down to where you can find parking. Practice some aloha (love, compassion, peace) and patience while you look for a spot!

Hot tip: It’s very common to see Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles at Laniakea Beach (AKA “Turtle Beach”), so this beach is a can’t-miss. These are the largest hard-shelled turtles in the world. Watch the turtles respectfully from afar; do not disturb them!

Watch Big-Wave Surfing

Oahu’s North Shore is home to the infamous big-wave surf breaks of Banzai Pipeline and Backdoor (which break in front of Ehukai Beach).

If you’re visiting Oahu between November and March, and if there’s a swell coming in, you’ll be lucky to witness pros from around the world dropping into some of the craziest waves on Earth.

You may even be in town for one of the many premier North Shore surf competitions held throughout the season, including Pipe Pro, The Vans Pipe Masters, Da Hui Backdoor Shootout, and Hurley Pro Sunset Beach.

As I mentioned, my boyfriend and I watched a few of The Vans Pipe Masters heats, and it was such a cool experience!

Dinner on the North Shore

When it comes to upscale-ish restaurants (with ocean views!) on the North Shore, Beach House by Roy Yamaguchi at Turtle Bay Resort is the place to go.

Expect fresh and local ingredients, bold flavors, and delicious creations – like lobster mac and cheese, misoyaki deepwater black cod, cabernet beef short ribs, all sorts of sushi, and caramelized pineapple butter rum cake.

Haleiwa Beach House is another top spot, focusing on fresh seafood (with a few turf options too). Order the ahi wontons and kalua pork grilled cheese. (Only open Friday through Sunday for dinner.)

Mayas Tapas & Wine, Seven Brothers (if you didn’t already go to the Kahuku location yesterday), and Banzai Sushi Bar are a few more dinner options to consider.

If you want something quick and easy after a big day of adventure (this is what I’d go for!), there are plenty of food trucks. I liked the classic Thai food at Malai Thai, but Surf N Salsa, Laura’s Korean BBQ, and Big Wave Shrimp Truck (closes at 6:30 PM) are also open for dinner!

Oahu Itinerary: Day 3 (North Shore)

Snorkel at Shark’s Cove

Let’s start the day with a mellow snorkel session!

One of the best things to do on Oahu’s North Shore is snorkeling at Shark’s Cove. And the early morning is a great time to do it – you’ll beat the crowds and the strong sun!

I had so much fun wading through the warm, calm, crystal-clear water here and checking out the sea life. You will too!

Shark’s Cove is a naturally formed rocky tidepool (which is mostly quite shallow) where all sorts of beautiful tropical fish congregate.

It gets its name from the white-tipped reef sharks that rarely hang out there. But don’t worry – they’re not considered dangerous. You’re more likely to see a turtle!

Bring your own snorkel gear, and maybe some water shoes (there are sea urchins – but mostly out of reach, in the rock crevices).

And remember, if you want to wear sunscreen, then it MUST be reef-safe sunscreen. That’s the law. This is my favorite kind.

Breakfast at Farm to Barn Café & Juicery

Ready for some brekkie? Breakfast at Farm to Barn Café & Juicery is your next stop.

Everything on FTB’s menu is made with organic, consciously sourced ingredients from local farms. From açai bowls and loaded bagels to burgers, breakfast burritos, and salads, there’s something for everyone.

I ordered the veggie Barn Burrito, which was packed with healthy goodness. Plus coffee, of course! The atmosphere of the outdoor picnic area here is also sublime.

Banzai Bowls is also a great option for açai bowls – I grew up on the bowls from their Laguna Beach, California location. So good!

Agricole Rum Tour & Tasting at Kō Hana

Next up, hop in your rental car and head out to Kō Hana Rum, an agricole (sugarcane juice rum) farm, in the middle of the island, that employs organic farming practices and distills delicious rum!

From Haleiwa, it’s a 25-minute drive.

I went on the Estate Farm Tour, which costs $50 and runs on Tuesdays and Thursday mornings only, at 10 am. Unexpectedly, it was one of my favorite experiences on Oahu!

On the tour, we tasted fresh-pressed sugarcane juice. We walked through the barrel house to learn about how rum can be aged in oak wine barrels. We toured the sugarcane farm and learned about sugarcane varieties and cultivation. And finally, we went back to the tasting room to try a variety of delicious rums!

Beyond the rum, I gained a deeper understanding of how huge farming corporations have harmed Hawaiian land by monocropping and spraying toxic chemicals; how most of Hawaii’s food is imported, despite having such fertile volcanic soil, plentiful rain, and sunshine; and most importantly, how more locals are trying to fix these issues by growing organic food and supporting local producers.

Remember: Where you choose to spend your money while on Oahu makes a huge impact too!

For a slightly shorter experience (available many times daily), book this Ko Hana Rum Tour and Tasting, which includes four rum tastings, and a guided tour of the barrel room and sugarcane garden (but not the whole farm).

Click here to book your Ko Hana Rum Tour and Tasting!

Stop for Coffee at Surfers Coffee

Need a quick pick-me-up after your rum tour in the hot Hawaiian sun?

Stop by Surfers Coffee, in the town of Wahiawā, on your way back to the North Shore. My oat latte from Surfers was, by far, the best coffee I had on the island!

Explore the Historic Town of Haleiwa

The historic, laid-back surf town of Haleiwa is worth a wander while you’re on the North Shore. It started as a sugarcane plantation town in the early 1900s, but it’s now known as the surf capital of the world.

This bustling hub is home to plenty of surf shops, art galleries, boutiques, restaurants, food trucks, colorful and traditional plantation-style buildings, and loads of charm!

Lunch in Haleiwa

Hungry? It’s time for lunch!

If you’re a foodie like me, you’ll want to make sure you hit all of the best spots. Why not take yourself on a little food tour of Haleiwa?

First up, Jenny’s Shrimp Truck. Go for a spicy garlic shrimp plate, which comes with rice, pineapple, and lettuce. You can’t go wrong with succulent, perfectly cooked shrimp, doused in this flavor-bomb sauce!

Just don’t forget to suck on the shrimp before you peel them to get all the flavor… Then you dipped the peeled shrimp in the sauce. That’s how you eat ’em!

Next, at Poke for the People, customize your own poke bowl at the counter – and add on all of the toppings you can dream of! Compared to Foodland, you’ll spend almost double, but it’s worth it!

I went for two flavors here (Limu Inamona Ahi and Spicy Ahi Tuna), with edamame and cucumber, topped with furikake. Every poke bowl also comes with either sushi rice or salad, plus crab salad and pickled ginger!

Shave Ice at Kaimana Shave Ice

The last stop of your self-guided food tour is Kaimana Shave Ice – my favorite shave ice spot in all of Hawaii (so far).

This cute family-owned shave ice shop serves up all-natural premium shave ice. The ice is super fluffy, the ice cream is delish, the syrups are made with real fruit, and the staff couldn’t have been more genuinely friendly.

I am still dreaming about my “Sunrise” shave ice with lychee and strawberry syrups, banana ice cream underneath, and mochi balls on top!

More Beach Time

Throw on your favorite swimsuit, head to a new beach (maybe Waimea Bay Beach Park?), lay out your quick-dry Turkish cotton beach towel on the sand, and catch some rays for the rest of the day.

There’s nothing like watching a North Shore sunset from a sandy beach.

Dinner on the North Shore

Scroll back up to my list of North Shore dinner restaurants from Day 2 for ideas!

Hot tip: Click here for a printable version of this itinerary so you can reference it on-the-go as you travel!

Oahu Itinerary: Day 4 (Windward Side/East Coast)

Hike up Lanikai Pillbox for Sunrise

Ready for an early wake-up? Hop in your rental car, and make your way down to the Kailua Beach parking lot. Park there for free, and then walk over to the Lanikai Pillbox trailhead and start climbing!

Don’t forget to bring a headlamp for the climb up, and to wear your hiking boots!

The Lanikai Pillbox hike is short but steep, and will only take you about an hour to complete (up and back).

Note: There isn’t any parking in front of Lanikai Beach (this area is all residential), so make sure to park in the free, public lot at Kailua Beach.

Beach Time at Kailua Beach or Lanikai Beach

After your hike, walk back over to either Kailua Beach or Lanikai Beach and post up for a relaxing beach day!

These beaches are consistently ranked as some of the most beautiful beaches in the world – and definitely on Oahu!

Both beaches feature the most gorgeous, powdery white sand and views of the two Mokulua Islands (A.K.A. The Mokes), which are part of the Hawaii State Seabird Sanctuary.

One of the most popular things to do here is this Kayak Tour of Kailua Bay, out to the island of Moko Nui (the larger island on the left) and Popoia Island (another nearby flat island).

As you paddle through the crystal-clear water, you’ll see all kinds of seabirds, hidden coves, pristine beaches, and maybe even a few sea turtles and Hawaiian monk seals. You’ll also enjoy a picnic lunch on one of the islands! You can choose a self-guided tour or a guided one.

For your beach day/kayak tour, make sure you’re prepared with reef-safe sunscreen, a waterproof drybag, an adventure sunhat, your swimsuit, a quick-dry beach towel, and your reusable water bottle!

Click here to book your Kayak Tour of Kailua Bay!

Coffee, Shopping & Lunch in Kailua

After the beach, it’s coffee time. Head to ChadLou’s Coffee Roasters for a to-go latte and a slice of delicious banana bread.

Coffee in hand, browse the many cute, local boutiques in town, like Olive and Manuhealii.

Then, when it’s time for lunch, I have it on good authority that you should head to Cafe Kopi for Singaporean laksa (available on weekends only, until it’s gone!)…

However, we opted to stop by Foodland Kailua instead to grab a two-choice poke bowl and sushi. Then, we took it back to Kailua Beach and enjoyed it on the sand. This beach is too beautiful not to!

Byodo-In Temple

If you have extra time, squeeze in a visit to the Byodo-In Temple!

With a backdrop of the Ko’olau Mountains, the Byodo-In Temple is one of the most peaceful places on the island. The lush greenery, koi fish pond, wild peacocks, tropical landscaping, black swans, and the temple itself are a few of the highlights.

The temple itself is a non-practicing replica of the Byodo-In Temple in Uji, Japan which is almost 1,000 years old.

The Oahu temple was constructed in 1968 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the first Japanese immigrants arriving in Hawaii.

The temple is open daily from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM (but the last entrance is at 4:15 PM). Entry is $5 per adult and $2 per child. You can purchase your tickets online or on arrival (no cash payments).

Wine & Dinner in Kailua

After the Byodo-In Temple, head back down to Kailua for a couple more foodie experiences.

At Bottleheads, you’ll find a worldly wine list, featuring the owner’s favorites from California to South Africa to New Zealand, along with little nibbles like cheese and fresh bread, caviar, cured meats, hummus, sandwiches, and more.

Then, for dinner, go for Hawaiian-American BBQ, bourbon, and beer at Easy ‘Que; this is your chance to try Huli Huli Chicken (a Hawaiian specialty!) along with all the traditional BBQ sides like mac salad, brussels sprouts, and baked beans!

After dinner, it’s time to make your way to Honolulu and check into your hotel in Waikiki. As mentioned, the best places to stay include Halekulani, The Royal Hawaiian, Moana Surfrider, and Romer Waikiki).

Drive the Scenic Pali Highway

From Kailua, it’s time to embark on an incredibly scenic route, on your way to Waikiki: Route 61.

Known as the Pali Highway, this highway cuts right through the Koʻolau Mountains and heads right into Honolulu. The views along the way are incredible.

But if you want more, then keep your eye out for a sign on the right side of the road that reads “Nu’uanu Pali Lookout” and turn off! This lookout offers panoramic views of the mountains, lush green valley, the town of Kailua, Chinama’s Hat, and endless ocean blues.

P.S. You’ll only need a couple of minutes to drink in the view, however, you’re supposed to pay the machine a parking fee of $5 to go see it.

Oahu Itinerary: Day 5 (Southeast Coast)

Snorkel at Hanauma Bay Nature Reserve

One of the most popular things to do in Southeast Oahu is snorkeling at Hanauma Bay Nature Reserve! This is a touristy experience to be sure, but it’s one I think is worth adding to your Oahu itinerary.

We had so much fun snorkeling at Hanauma Bay and saw so many types of tropical fish representing every color of the rainbow – from parrotfish and many kinds of butterflyfish to triggerfish and the Moorish idol. The experience was spectacular.

Though, for a “nature reserve,” I was surprised to see how many microplastics littered the beach here… This wasn’t the case at any of the public/free beaches I visited on Oahu – which were all pristine! So sad.

Hot tip: When you arrive, walk as far down the beach as you can! During our visit, the side of the beach closest to the stairs was completely packed with people… Yet, on the other side, where we camped up, there was no one around! It felt like we had half of the beach to ourselves.

What to bring to Hanauma Bay

• Your ticket purchase confirmation (on your phone)
• Eco-friendly, reef-safe sunscreen; it’s illegal to use non-reef-safe sunscreen in Hawaii!
• Quick-dry Turkish cotton beach towels
• Your own snorkel set; or you can rent a set at the rental shop on the beach for $20
• Adventure sunhat
• GoPro for underwater photography
• Lightweight/portable beach tent; perfect for beach days, especially during peak UV hours!
• Water and snacks

GETTING TICKETS & MUST-KNOW TIPS

Entry to Hanauma Bay comes with a set of strict procedures. Two days before your desired visit date, at 6:59 AM sharp, you need to be online, on the official ticket website, ready to purchase your tickets. *Tickets sell out near-instantly. Secure the earliest possible time slot you can to ensure the best experience! Personally, I wouldn’t want to enter any later than 8 AM!

Tickets to Hanauma Bay cost $25 per person (but kids 12 and under are free). Parking costs $3, cash only.

The reserve is CLOSED on Mondays and Tuesdays, so you may have to shift around your Oahu itinerary accordingly!

The first entry slot is at 6:45 AM. The reserve closes at 4 pm, but the last entry is at 1:30 pm. You must be in line 15 minutes before your admission time; you cannot enter late. Before you can head down to the beach, you will be required to watch a 9-minute orientation video.

We entered at 7:30 AM, and snorkeled for about two hours. By around 9:45 AM, we’d had enough – and it was getting pretty packed anyway! For us, this experience was perfect.

That said, you could easily stay all day if you want to! Just bring plenty of water, snacks, and a lightweight/portable beach tent or umbrella – there’s hardly any shade on this beach!

*In case you miss out on purchasing your tickets from the official website, you can try booking via this link. The company will arrange your transportation and secure entry tickets for you – though the price of the tickets isn’t included in this service.

Hike Up the Koko Crater Tramway

Ready for a challenge? Then change into your hiking clothes, and put on your hiking boots and sunhat.

After your snorkeling adventure at Hanauma Bay, drive 7 minutes down the road to the Koko Crater Tramway trailhead.

To get to the summit of Koko Head, you have to climb up 1,048 very steep stairs, along an abandoned railroad track. And I’m not going to lie, this hike is very physically challenging – especially in that Hawaiian heat!

I probably had to stop 20 times on the way up, and I’d consider myself pretty fit. But the dramatic views of the Pacific Ocean, mountain ridgelines, and city skyline are wildly beautiful and totally worth it.

Note: Depending on your entry time at HBAY, you may want to go hiking first! Hiking Koko Head for sunrise would be incredible.

Grab Lunch & Leonord’s in Hawaii Kai

Next up, lunch… And dessert! You’ve certainly earned it after hiking up to Koko Head!

Drive over to a shopping center in Hawaii Kai called Koko Marina Center, where you’ll find lots of local options for lunch, including HanaPa’a Market for fresh poke and Kona Brewing for craft beer and pizza.

Afterward, walk over to the famous Leonard’s Bakery Malasada Truck for some hot and fresh Portuguese doughnuts! The main location in Waikiki is as touristy as it gets, but at least at this food truck, you won’t have to wait in a super long line. I liked the li hing and cinnamon original malasadas – but I wasn’t a fan of the cream/custard-filled puffs at all. Order a few and see what you think!

Explore Waikiki

Ready for some downtime? This afternoon, explore the streets of Waikiki and stroll along Waikiki Beach, or enjoy the pool at your hotel (you’re paying a resort fee, after all, may as well make the most of it!).

For an easy and delicious dinner, walk over to Marugame Udon.

My advice? Skip the crazy-long line for a table, and head over to the to-go order window! Order some bowls of udon to-go – and then, through the windows, watch the cooks crafting your udon noodles from scratch while you wait. Take your udon to the beach, or just to your hotel room, and enjoy!

Oahu Itinerary: Day 6 (Honolulu)

Visit Pearl Harbor

A must on every Oahu itinerary is a somber yet totally fascinating visit to the Pearl Harbor National Memorial.

You can either drive yourself to Pearl Harbor in your rental car, take TheBus, or book a guided tour (this is what I recommend).

This tour of Pearl Harbor includes:

• Entry to the USS Arizona Memorial (and the boat ride out to it);
• Entry to the USS Battleship Missouri; and
• Transportation to/from your Waikiki hotel.

Click here to book your Pearl Harbor USS Arizona Memorial & Battleship Missouri tour!

If you just want to visit the USS Arizona Memorial, book this tour, which includes transportation to/from Waikiki.

If tickets to the USS Arizona Memorial and/or the USS Missouri Memorial aren’t in your budget, you should still visit Pearl Harbor on your own.

It’s 100% free to walk around the National Park’s grounds, read the historical markers, and visit the museums that tell the story of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor and how the United States became directly involved in World War II.

Take a Helicopter Tour Over Oahu

Keen to see some of the best views of your entire life? Then a must on your Oahu itinerary on Day 6 is a helicopter tour over the island! (Even though it is a little pricey, this unforgettable experience is worth every penny.)

On this 45-minute helicopter tour from Honolulu, you’ll soar past the Sacred Falls (the only way you will ever lay eyes on them!), Diamond Head crater, the Honolulu skyline, Pearl Harbor, and the lush and rugged Koʻolau Mountain Range. Click here to book it! 

On this 60-minute helicopter tour, you’ll see even more sights – including the Makapuu Lighthouse, Lanikai Beach, the beautiful North Shore, and more. Click here to book it!

You can choose a doors-on experience or a doors-off tour for a major adrenaline rush. (Doors-off is my preference, a hundred times over!)

Click here to book your 45-minute helicopter tour OR here to book your 60-minute tour!

Earlier in the year, I went on this doors-off helicopter tour in Kauai. And it was beyond incredible! However, since the experience is pretty similar, I decided not to include a helicopter tour in my personal Oahu itinerary. You definitely should though – which is why I’ve included it here for you!

Explore Kaka’ako 

After your helicopter tour, explore the neighborhood of Kaka’ako on foot.

This area of Honolulu is known for its artsy, hipster vibes, trendy eateries, craft beer spots, cool boutiques, and street art.

Make sure to visit ARVO for me (an Aussie-style cafe, but keep in mind, they close at 2 PM) and Honolulu Beerworks.

Dinner & Cocktails in Downtown Honolulu

Ready for some amazing cocktails and Asian eats in Downtown Honolulu?

First, head over to The Podmore for literally the best cocktails ever. And maybe some small pre-dinner bites. We were lucky enough to snag two barstools, but it’s a good idea to make a reservation! I mean it when I say the two cocktails we ordered here were some of the most flavor-packed, imaginative drinks I’ve ever had!

Then, stroll over to The Pig & The Lady for delicious modern Vietnamese fare. We loved the brussels sprouts, black truffle tofu gnocchi, and banh xeo. Though I have to say, the other dish we ordered was waaaay too salty…

Other great dinner options include Fête and Senia.

You need reservations for all of the above – but especially Senia.

Note: This area of Honolulu isn’t the safest at night, despite playing host to some of the city’s swankiest restaurants. Stay aware of your surroundings!

Oahu Itinerary: Day 7 (Honolulu)

For the final day of your Oahu itinerary, Honolulu is your oyster!

Take your pick between the activities in/around Honolulu below. If you have a full day, you can do them all:

• Hike up Diamond Head for epic views
• Go on this whale-watching tour (December through April only)
• Drink sunset cocktails at Duke’s (super touristy but fun)
• Eat fresh poke at Paia Fish Market
• Enjoy the pool(s) at your Waikiki hotel
• Lounge on the sand and swim at Waikiki Beach

What to Pack for Oahu, Hawaii (and Why)

There are a few items you shouldn’t travel to Oahu without! Here’s a quick list of my recommendations.

• Reef-safe sunscreen: In 2021, the state of Hawaii BANNED all sunscreens containing the active ingredients oxybenzone and octinoxate because they kill marine life – particularly, coral reefs. Natural sunscreen is also better for you! You can ONLY wear reef-safe, eco-friendly sunscreen in Hawaii. This is my favorite kind.
• Water shoes: Some snorkeling spots (including Shark’s Cove) have sea urchins. Wear water shoes to protect your feet!
• Snorkel gear: If you plan to snorkel at Hanauma Bay, Shark’s Cove, and beyond, it may be handy to bring your own snorkel, mask, and fins. You can rent them at Hanauma Bay, though.
• Quick-dry Turkish beach towels: From beach days to snorkeling to your Swim with Sharks Tour, you need a beach towel!
• Natural, organic mosquito/insect repellent: This is a tropical island, and yes, there are mosquitoes – particularly during the warmer months of March through November.
• Hiking boots: From Koko Head to Diamond Head to Lanikai Pillbox, there’s a lot of hiking to do on Oahu (and that’s just scratching the surface!). These are my favorite hiking boots – I highly recommend them!
• Headlamp: If you plan to go on a sunrise or sunset hike, you’re going to want to bring a headlamp so you can see!
• Adventure sunhat: The sun is super strong in Hawaii! I love wearing this hat on hikes and boat trips.
• Swimsuits: For obvious reasons!

The Perfect Oahu Itinerary (for 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7 Days)

Well, there you have it friends! That’s my ultimate Oahu itinerary for up to 7 days. With this Oahu guide at your fingertips, you’re in for the Oahu vacation of a lifetime – filled with unforgettable memories, incredible views, pristine beaches, and delicious food!

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