Honolulu
Honolulu in Style: 7 Days of Sun, Sea, and Splurge
A one-week Honolulu escape blending iconic sights, stunning beaches, upscale dining, and a few splurge‑worthy experiences. Stay in chic Waikiki hotels, savor top island cuisine from poke to tasting menus, and balance relaxation with culture, scenery, and adventure.
Where to Stay
Halekulani Hotel
Iconic luxury hotel on Waikiki Beach with serene decor, outstanding service, and House Without A Key on-site.
The Laylow, Autograph Collection
Mid-century modern boutique hotel on Kuhio Avenue with a stylish pool deck and strong design details.
Prince Waikiki
Harborfront hotel with all rooms offering ocean views, an infinity pool, and easy access to Ala Moana and Waikiki.
Good to Know
Reserve Key Activities Early
Book Diamond Head, Pearl Harbor, fine-dining restaurants, and catamaran or ranch tours several weeks ahead, especially in peak seasons and for prime morning or sunset slots.
Plan Around Traffic and Parking
Honolulu has real city traffic, and parking at beaches, downtown, and Pearl Harbor can be tight—factor in extra time, consider ride-shares, or pick hotels with included parking if you rent a car.
Sun and Reef-Safe Preparation
Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and light long sleeves; reapply often as UV is strong even on cloudy days, and many tours require reef-safe products.
Respect Local Culture and ʻĀina (Land)
Avoid stepping on coral, don’t touch sea turtles or monk seals, observe posted signs, and be mindful at cultural sites like Iolani Palace and Pearl Harbor.
Smart Packing for Island Weather
Pack breathable clothing, a light rain shell, comfortable walking sandals/shoes, and a small daypack for hikes and beach days; evenings in Waikiki are usually warm and resort-casual.
Use TheBus and Taxis Strategically
Oahu’s public bus system (TheBus) is extensive for city and some intercity routes, but for tight schedules or evening fine-dining, taxis and ride-shares are faster and more predictable.
Tipping and Dining Expectations
Plan to tip 18–22% at sit-down restaurants and for guided tours; many places are relaxed but still appreciate reservations and arriving on time for your booking window.
Stay Ocean-Front If Possible
If your budget allows, choose a true oceanfront room or at least a partial ocean view in Waikiki; you’ll likely spend more time enjoying the lanai than you expect.
Your Week Itinerary
Leonard's Bakery
Classic Honolulu bakery famous for fresh malasadas (try original sugar and haupia-filled).
Waikiki Beach
Relax on the sand, swim, and stroll the shoreline along Kalākaua Avenue.
Honolulu Surf Lessons by Waikiki Beach (generic surf school cluster)
Join a small-group beginner lesson right off Waikiki to catch your first waves with an instructor.
Duke's Waikiki
Beachfront restaurant with fresh fish, salad bar, and the famous Hula Pie dessert.
Sunset at Queen's Beach / Kuhio Beach
Watch the sun dip behind Waikiki’s skyline from the seawall or beach near the Duke Kahanamoku statue.
Diamond Head State Monument
Hike to the crater summit for panoramic views over Waikiki and the south shore; reservations required.
Ars Cafe
Stylish Kaimukī coffee shop and gallery serving excellent espresso, pastries, and light bites.
Kapiʻolani Park and Waikiki Aquarium
Stroll the park under banyan trees and visit the Waikiki Aquarium to see reef fish, corals, and monk seals.
Hau Tree
Oceanfront restaurant under iconic hau trees serving elevated island cuisine and cocktails.
Evening Walk on Sans Souci Beach
Take a post-dinner stroll along this quieter stretch of Waikiki’s shoreline near Kaimana Beach Hotel.
31 activities across 7 days
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