2024 Hawaii Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in September)
Popular Attractions
Pearl Harbor
Waikīkī Beach
Kualoa Ranch
Battleship Missouri Memorial
Diamond Head
Hawaii Honolulu/Oahu Travel Guide
I really love Hawaii 🌺aloha
🌈Play:
▪️Lanikai Pillbox & Lanikai Beach I would call it the most beautiful hiking spot and the most beautiful white sand beach. I've been there twice already
▪️Waikiki Beach The most popular commercial district beach. Quite a lot of people!
▪️Makapu‘u Point Lighthouse Trail
▪️Halona Blowhole Lookout
▪️Koko Crater Railway Trailhead is also a hiking trail but very unique because it's a 🛤️rail track type of hike
▪️Hawaii Polo Oceanfront Trail Rides Horseback riding by the sea! Make a reservation in advance~ About 1h, it's recommended to wear pants
▪️ Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden A very green and fairy-tale-like botanical garden
▪️Laniakea Beach Turtle Beach🐢
🌈Eat:
▪️Kona Coffee Black sesame croissant recommended!
▪️Island Vintage coffee An old internet celebrity, taro bagel is really my favorite
▪️Yoshitsune Delicious sukiyaki
▪️HK Cafe Quite authentic tea restaurant😭I love it
▪️Foodland Market Poke Bowl Cheap, large portions, and delicious
▪️Matsumoto Shave Ice North Shore internet celebrity shaved ice
▪️Marugame Udon Delicious Japanese noodles
▪️Musubi Cafe Japanese rice balls
▪️The Sunrise Shack A must-eat acai bowl in Hawaii
▪️Sushi Sho Internet celebrity omakase
🌈Shop:
▪️Waikiki shopping street Very lively, duty-free shops with big brand cosmetics and shoes
▪️Ala Moana mall An all-purpose mall
▪️abc I have to rave about Hawaii's abc stores, really one at every step, they have everything, food, drinks, beach supplies, souvenirs, really all-purpose. The internet celebrity black Hello Kitty is also here (now you get a gift with a purchase of $100, hurry and get the deal
ExpeditionSeeker#7
Honolulu, capital of Hawaii.
Honolulu, on the island of Oahu’s south shore, is the capital of Hawaii and gateway to the U.S. island chain on the Pacific. Been there four times already and still will go
because there are so many attractions to explore as well as the other islands. A must to visit is the Pearl Harbour USS Arizona Memorial, the famous Waikiki Beach, known for its popular surf beach. Very vibrant dotted with hotels, fashion stores, fine dining and cocktail bars. Also recommended is The Volcanic Crater, known as Diamond Head is a popular hiking destination with panoramic views of Waikiki and Oahu’s south shore. The Polynesian Cultural Centre is also an eye opener as well as the Kualoa Ranch, the filming location of over 70 movies produced out of Hollywood, most famously known for the Jurassic Park series.
Scooby
The Sunrise Shack – Haleiwa, Hawaii
We can’t get enough of this sunshine yellow coffee and snack bar. If you think the landscape is stunning in Hawaii you’ll be even more taken as soon as you walk in here. The cafe is a sensory overload, with colours bursting from every angle.
#café#deserts
vivi amalia
Hawaiian Aroma Caffe – Honolulu, Hawaii
There’s four locations in Honolulu, but our fave is the Ohana East cafe, with its multi-coloured staircase. The interior has vivid acai and poke bowls, fresh plants and rustic wooden seating. Easily one of the most Instagrammable cafes in America!
#café#deserts
vivi amalia
The Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club’s Olive & Oliv
Olive and Oliver is a fun lifestyle brand all about authentic beach culture in Hawaii, and their space in the Surfjack Hotel has a stunning cafe. The pineapple takeaway cups and pineapple-design coffee bar sum up the aesthetic here: tropical and oh-so ‘grammable.
#café#deserts
vivi amalia
Three must do things in Oahu.
1- Surf at Waikiki Beach. This is a great spot for beginners to learn to surf. The waves are gentle and make it easy to learn how to stand up on your board. It’s also a great place to watch the sunset.
2- Hike Diamond Head. Diamond Head is an extinct volcanic crater with some of the best views of the island. It’s a reality rly easy hike which can take around 1-2 hours, depending on how many times you stop to take photos.
3- Walking around Lanikai Beach. This is one of the most breathtaking beaches I’ve seen. Directly in front of the beach is a small island that you are able to be boated out to. It really makes you feel like you are truly in paradise.
#photographyheaven #hawaii #awesomepic
#awesomepic
Danny McGee
Hawaii is more than a romantic location. if you are seeking adventure then Hawaii is truly a place for you! The scenery in Hawaii is something out of a movie! It's lush, green and beautiful!
One of the most popular hikes is called Stairway to Heaven. You can hike to the top using the back route. The only issue is that it takes about 4-6 hours to do it but it is perfectly legal. Trying to hike mountain using the stairs is actually illegal and there is police in the area looking out for tourists trying to do this hike. You could be fined up to $1000 as well. So be careful and have fun!
#oahu #hawaii #stairwaytoheaven #hawaiiHikes
@whereintheworldisb
This is a view of what I like to call "natures versaclimber" -- it's challenging but a great workout and the view is incredible! Check out Koko Crater hike on Oahu! (aka Kokohead) #train #hawaii #hike #beautiful
Kalen Emsley
Oahu has always been one of the top dive sites in the world -- we were lucky enough to catch a swarm of sharks that were curious but friendly. #diving #scubadiving #freediving
Kalen Emsley
I can't wait to get back to Hawaii for a new years vacation -- last time we went we took a quick flight over sacred falls (closed for hiking but amazing from the sky!) #hawaii #livehi #sacredfalls #seeyourcity
Kalen Emsley
Having fun at the sunflower fields on Oahu Hawaii -- such a cool and unique spot with mountains in the distance and sunflowers for as far as the eye can see! #springtravel #travelhawaii #sunflowers
Kalen Emsley
Oahu, HI - I was born on the island of Oahu and I moved to Washington state when I was in high school. I recently took a trip home. The first two photos are very sentimental to me, (Waikiki, HI.) I grew up in a big family, my step father had 7 kids and my mom had 3 of us. When we were all kids/teens, our parents used to take us to this drive in theater every Friday night. We used to bring blankets and snacks and sit on the beach, watching fireworks and then a movie. The third is a photo of a little island called Mokoli’i, meaning “small lizard”, but also known as “Chinaman’s Hat” where I would spend majority of my time hiking, or diving. Fourth photo is from one of my favorite hikes on a mountain called Makapu’u, meaning “bulging eye.” I would hike Makapu’u at least once a week to catch a sunrise. The last photo is where I grew up, Kahalu’u. The mountains behind me are called Ko’olau, meaning windward, as in the windward side of the island. Everyone who visits Oahu will usually talk about all the good things they’ve seen, but no one ever talks about the not so good places. Hawaii is a beautiful state and it truly is paradise, although it does have it’s messed up parts. Thank you for letting me share a little bit about my home.. I hope y’all enjoy 😊
#givethanks
Titikeaulana
The most beautiful beach in the world, meet you in the most beautiful season!
Oahu is the third largest island in Hawaii, Honolulu, the capital of the island, and the Chinese called Honolulu. There are 69 beaches on
Oahu, the most famous of which is Waikiki Beach
route arrangement
so many beaches, how to choose? There are great beaches in the southeast and northwest of Oahu, clockwise from the south:
1 South except the most famous Waikiki Beach, there are many tourists, and there is a dinosaur bay near Diamond Head Hanauma Bay. , the famous diving site;
2 There is a Disney resort and a Ko Olina Beach in the west, the sea is clear, the quality white beach, almost no one;
3 more beaches in the north, is surfing The paradise is mainly a few beaches in the small town of Haleiwa: Secret Beach, Hale'iwa Beach, and Sunset Beach; turn to the northeast with a Polynesian Cultural Center, experience the body Folk culture, down to Kualo Ranch & Beach Park, Jurassic Park is here;
4 East is the star beach of Oahu, Kalua Beach Kailua beach and Lanikai Beach. Lanikai Beach and the beaches of Seychelles and Maldives are considered to be the top 10 beaches in the world.
Public transport
Ouhu Island's bus system is relatively developed. If you don't drive by yourself, you can get it by bus. However, the interval between each bus will be a bit long, you can also consider chartered;
Hall Island Touring Car
Trip has a one-day tour charter, or you can directly find a local chartered car, here is a strong recommendation to everyone: Custom Island Tours!
The boss is called Carey. He is also one of the drivers. Our driver is him. The boss, who has been a navy for seven years in Hawaii, has lived in the local area for many years. He can be said that he is a local pass. He knows everything. During the driving process, he will introduce you to the history, geography and legends of Hawaii. interesting! Their company will provide mature itinerary routes, you can directly choose the route they have ordered, of course, you can also make your own (such as us), after sending the route to them, they will advise you on the route you have made, for example, the same day. Carey took us to a beach that only locals know, and recommended a super delicious shrimp restaurant opened by Taiwanese people...
accommodation recommended
the ilima we stayed in Hotel, although not a tall sea view room, but the price is still quite high: 1) clean, 2) comfortable, 3) the room is big enough, 4) complete kitchen and bathroom facilities, 5) everything around the supermarket, shop, 6) The price is also the range we can afford. What else is picky?
Food checkup
Red Lobster! Here is the top lobster shop in Oahu! We chose a 2 lb. steamed lobster set.
The waitress was very enthusiastic. When helping us process the lobster, she told us that the prawns came from the Atlantic Ocean in the southern United States. Forget it, the price is not expensive because of imports, and the price of San Francisco's lobster, and surely the tax rate in Hawaii is very low! Recommend it!
Fiorelady.
Driving a few miles, even if you can't catch up with Ole, you can't catch up with the beach to see the fireworks, it's worth to eat the shrimp.
The day before at the Gulani Ranch, a Chinese staff recommended this Fumi seafood. At the beginning, we were suspicious and did not go specifically. After coming out of the Bonicia Cultural Center, we decided to drive a few miles. Look, since it is here, you should not miss it.
Navigation is indeed Fumi, but only open at noon, the guys in the store let us go to the restaurant one kilometer away to eat, the original night market opened in the roadside stall, so cool?
Fumi's shrimps are all farmed, so it is very fresh and delicious. It looks like a fast food. In fact, it tastes better than a fine restaurant. It has spicy and not spicy choices. We bought garlic and it is delicious. Even the rice is fragrant, the vegetables on the side are canned corn, sweet, the fruit is pineapple, and the daughter eats both corn and pineapple.
? I am also embarrassed, but unfortunately I can't eat it!
vivian.ting.
Oahu is a great car! If you are fast, you can get around the island in one day, but if you don't want to leave Waikiki Beach too far, you can go to the East China Sea for a lap of up to 2 to 3 hours. The shore of the East China Sea is the most popular tourist route on Oahu Island, with beautiful views of the cliffs of the sea and the waves. There are also countless observation platforms along the road, and each observation deck has beautiful natural scenery. There are also many beaches along the way, free beaches are available for a fee, and of course most are free.
Some visitors don't like the excitement of Waikiki Beach, they choose to drive to the farther beaches and enjoy the priority island holidays.
Makapuu Beach Park is located at the eastern end of Oahu, belonging to the Windward Coast and adjacent to Sea Life Park Hawaii. There is also a church next to it. I heard that many people choose to take wedding photos here or hold a simple beach wedding.
Traveller_Xiaoyi.
There are many beautiful public beaches on Oahu Island, Hawaii.
Waikiki Beach is the most famous, most prosperous and lively,
who makes most of Oahu hotels concentrated here!
So this beach, from morning till night, there is no shortage of tourists who enjoy the sea and the beach,
want to see the beautiful bikini sister, and the surf girl, there is nothing wrong with coming here.
Of course, the sunrise and sunset at Waikiki Beach are very beautiful,
especially at sunset,
almost every day can see the orange sunset,
golden sparkling sea, Floating a lot of surf boys and girls,
voyage boats, with the sunset gradually return to Hong Kong,
sun from the air, slowly falling into the Pacific Ocean.
Traveller_Xiaoyi.
Compared to the East Coast, the North Shore of Oahu is more primitive and natural, with steep canyons, magnificent surf beaches and lovely wildlife. The beaches of the North Coast stretch for 11 kilometers and host the world's most famous surfing competition every year. If there is a perfect big wave in the world, it is likely to be found on the north coast of Oahu. In this sacred sacred place, the transparent waves of winter attract the best surfers in the world. The Gullani Ranch is a very famous attraction in Hawaii. Founded in 1850, it is a 4,000-acre cattle farm. The reason why the Gurani Ranch is famous is that it has been the venue for many TV shows and Hollywood movies, such as Jurassic Park, Windtalker, Pearl Harbor, Godzilla, Tears of the Sun and 50 first love. Hawaii is the birthplace of the giant wave surfing. If you come to Hawaii in the winter, you can't miss the biggest waves in the world, as well as those that are famous in professional surfing. There are many legendary beaches on the north shore of Ouhu: Yibikai Beach (Long live the waves), Sunset Beach, Haleiwa Beach, and the venue of the Vans Surf Triple Crown. Every year, many people come to the beach. Watch an exciting game. Laniakea Beach is a famous turtle beach on Oahu. It is the most remote beach on the lowest island of Oahu. Although it is not as fine as sand and sand, it does not have the luxury of Waikiki, but it attracts a large number of turtles. Tourists come~~~
jiajiatravel.
As one of the world's most famous resorts, Hawaii has gathered all the world-famous hotel brands and the most luxurious resorts and spas to travel to Hawaii, so stay tuned for yourself. Of course, the overall price of Hawaii is higher, and it is natural to have a better blood.
Oahu, we stayed at the Marriott Resort on the edge of the prestigious Waikiki Beach, this hotel is ideally located within a few minutes walk to Oahu's busiest shopping district, each room With large windows and private balconies, the sea view room we stayed in can not only see the long and white Waikiki Beach, but also the scenery of Diamond Head Mountain not far away. The bed in the room is very high and the bed is large and soft. There are also a number of different types of pillows to choose from, and the wet and dry separation bathroom brings us great convenience.
Waikiki Marriott Resort
Booking Method
Aurora_Rice_Ball.
Hawaiian Polynesian magic hula dinner, dinner while watching the show, dinner including salads, steaks, vegetables, desserts and drinks of choice, we also received a VIP volcano cup, very memorable. The audience is full of seats, the magician John will render the atmosphere, the magic show is thrilling and exciting, the performance is compact and rich, unpredictable, and the interactive part of the audience is full of laughter, the atmosphere is very burning. The indigenous fire knife dance looks very exciting, and there is also a local hula dance Hula dance performance, very Hawaiian style. The enchanting figure of the dancer, the unique Polynesian sing, with the first-class lighting and sound effects, presents us with a feast of vision and hearing.
We booked in advance to the ticket office for our confirmation number, and then the service staff helped us each wearing a string of black beads, which was a gift. We waited for a while and then entered the performance venue.
First of all, the vegetable salad is very light. Our drink is served in a volcanic cup, and the cup can be taken away after drinking the drink. After that, there are staple foods, steaks, mashed potatoes and vegetable dishes. There are many pastures in Hawaii, and there are also many cows. The beef meat here is very tender, the steak is tender and delicious, the mashed potatoes are soft, the mushrooms are delicious, the vegetables are refreshing, and the weight is sufficient.
Suyilu.
Hawaii is a holiday paradise. If you come, you don't want to leave!
The scenery here is really beautiful, and there are so many things to watch!
Waikiki Beach is a sacred place!
Diamond Head Mountain is not only a walking place, but also a great location overlooking Waikiki!
Dinosaur Bay and Xingyue Bay are simply snorkeling sites! The
Hana road is a classic self-driving road!
There are not only rainbow smoothies, but also famous steaks!
There are also Jurassic Park's location
here and there...
Too many items worthy of experience, the scenery to enjoy and the taste of the food!
Jinchen_Not_Genius.
A dream came true , Hawaii!
#100WaysOfTravel Hawaii is a dream destination that exceeded all of my expectations. From the moment I landed, I was captivated by the island’s natural beauty, welcoming atmosphere, and unique blend of culture. I visited Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island, each offering its own distinct charm.
Oahu’s bustling energy, especially in Honolulu and Waikiki Beach, was a great introduction. The hike up Diamond Head rewarded me with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the city skyline. Pearl Harbor was a sobering but enriching experience, giving me a deep sense of history.
Maui’s lush landscapes felt like paradise. The Road to Hana drive is a must-do — it was winding and a bit challenging but worth every twist for the stunning waterfalls and coastal views. Relaxing on the golden sands of Ka'anapali Beach and watching the sunset from Haleakalā were highlights. I also loved snorkeling at Molokini Crater, where the vibrant marine life was like something out of a nature documentary.
The Big Island offered a completely different experience with its volcanic landscape. Visiting Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park was surreal, especially seeing Kīlauea’s active crater. The contrast between the black lava fields and lush rainforests was striking, and stargazing atop Mauna Kea was an unforgettable experience.
Throughout the trip, I was impressed by the warm hospitality of the locals and the delicious food — fresh poke bowls, kalua pork, and shaved ice were standouts. Hawaii’s beauty goes beyond the scenery; its deep-rooted culture and traditions make it a place I can’t wait to revisit. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Hawaii offers something magical for every traveler.#travel
inessanchezz
Alii Dr in Hawaii holds all the romance in the world
There is a particularly inconspicuous downtown on the Big Island called Ali'i Dr.
This small, shabby street has become an irreplaceable existence in our hearts.
The road is about 7 miles long.
Along the way, you can enjoy the beautiful Pacific Ocean scenery and tropical style, with a unique romantic atmosphere of Hawaii.
Recommended check-in points:
Hulihe'e Palace: Once a vacation spot for Hawaiian royalty, it has now been converted into a museum.
Mokuaikaua Church: Built in 1820, this church has a unique architectural style and exquisite interior decoration, making it a great place to learn about early Hawaiian history.
Magic Sands Beach: It is called Magic Sands Beach because the sand suddenly disappears at a specific time every winter and reappears as a white beach in April and May.
Kailua Village Farmers Market: A great place to experience local culture and buy specialties and handicrafts.
Kona Haven Coffee: Rather than placing this in the food section, it should be in the scenic area. Every morning, ordering a cup of coffee and taking a spot to watch the sea view and passersby is wonderful, instantly giving a vacation feel.
Food
(Restaurants on Ali'i may have chefs more interested in the scenery than cooking, but these are still worth trying.)
🍴Kona Country Club: This was recommended by local friends during our visit to the Big Island this year. Many locals love this restaurant, and it has few tourists. The location is a bit remote but quiet and reliable.
Island Lava Java: Located in the center of Ali'i Dr, we often met friends here when we lived in Kona. The sea view is also great, and we love the spots where you can eat and watch passersby.
Kai: A restaurant suitable for gatherings with friends, more American-style, with beautiful sunset sea views, better for dinner.
🍴Laverne's Sports Bar: A new try during this visit to the Big Island, fewer tourists and more locals, with a live band that creates a great atmosphere and generous drinks.
🍴Royal Kona Resort lobby restaurant: Our landlord couple loved this restaurant when we lived on the Big Island, saying they have been eating here for over 20 years and still dance with friends. The atmosphere is indeed great, but it's hard to get a table during meal times.
Honestly, if you are visiting the Big Island for the first time and staying in the Waikoloa hotel area without renting a car,
it's hard to experience the local customs on Ali'i Dr. I suggest you come again if you have the chance,
don't miss this romantic and unique downtown 💗
Abigail~Cooper60
Hawaii!!!
Love it!
Sophiamia
Vacation in Hawaii its Beautiful… want to go again 😊
Unursaikhan
My dream destination would be Hawaii
#summerdestinations I haven't had a holiday for a while . But there are places I would like to go like Hawaii for summer holiday .#familytrip
Phitcy
Hawaii Trip
I’ve book my hotel via Trip.com during my vacation at Hawaii
Solika Chuop
#2024wish
I’m going to travel more this year! It’s just the beginning!📍Address: Hawaii
1010 shimokawa
Who knows about the Diamond Head in Hawaii! It's really photogenic
It's so hot, but so beautiful, so beautiful~
Climbing up there makes you a real hero!
📌Diamond Head Crater Trailhead
Reserved the 4-6 pm slot the day before
Tickets are $10 per car and $5 per person
gostateparks.hawaii.gov
I heard that if you don't leave at night, you'll be locked in, so we arrived on time at 4 pm
Since it's a crater, there's no wind in the middle, and the way up without reaching the top is really very hot
I suggest everyone bring more bottles of water and wear something cool
Choosing this dress for photos is beautiful
But the process of climbing is really a blur, I can't catch my breath
After reaching the top, the sense of achievement is really full
A little breeze is really comfortable, Diamond Head truly lives up to its reputation, it's too beautiful and photogenic! Who knows!
Wishing everyone to take beautiful photos~
JORDYN BENSON
Jurassic Park!
#dreamdestination
It's Hawaii's Jurassic Park! It is decorated exactly like what you see in the movies. Even young children will love this place! Recommended for a family trip!
littlewang
Harmony with nature
#dreamdestination
This is a grassland located in Hawaii! Hiwai is a region that lives in harmony with nature, so there are wide, beautiful grasslands. Animals also walk in the grassland☺️