Curator’s statement
As someone from Honolulu, it’s always special to bring my family back each year to reconnect with the island and experience its authentic charm. Beyond the famous Waikiki Beach, we love exploring places that truly reflect the heart of Oahu. From scenic hikes and hidden beaches to local restaurants that feel like home, I’m excited to share our favorite places with you, so you can create your own unforgettable memories in this sunny paradise.
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Day 1: Kaimana Beach & dinner
Check-In & Kaimana Beach: A calm, family-friendly beach on the quieter side of Waikiki. Walkable from most hotels; limited parking. Adjacent to Kapiolani Park.
Stock up at ABC Stores: Grab essentials, Guava juice or a spam musubi for a Hawaiian snack.
Eat out on the beach (toss your trash please!) or along the seawall.
Dinner at House Without a Key: Enjoy sunset cocktails, live music and kid-friendly hula dancing at Halekulani Hotel. Arrive around 5 pm.
Day 2: Lighthouse hike & aquarium
Breakfast at Koko Head Cafe: Start the day with delicious local-inspired brunch. Menu and info at Koko Head Cafe.
Hike Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail: A paved, stroller-friendly hike with breathtaking views. Bring sunscreen! Learn more at Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail.
Lunch at Rainbow Drive-In: A classic spot for Hawaiian plate lunches. Check them out at Rainbow Drive-In.
Waikiki Aquarium: Compact but delightful, with an outdoor space for kids to run. Visit Waikiki Aquarium.
Dinner at Hau Tree: Dine beachfront at Kaimana Beach Hotel while kids play in the sand.
Day 3: Catamaran sail, Ala Moana Center and Beach Park
Breakfast at Sweet E's Cafe: A cozy local spot in Kapahulu.
Morning Catamaran Sail: Depart from Hilton Hawaiian Village for a fun ocean adventure. Book at Hilton Hawaiian Village.
Lunch & play at Ala Moana Center: Enjoy diverse food options (Genki Sushi has a sushi go-around that delivers food by train) and a rooftop playground near Target. Info at Ala Moana Center.
Relax at Ala Moana Beach Park: Spacious beach with calm waters and picnic areas.
Dinner at Highway Inn: Known for its traditional Hawaiian plate, don’t miss having haupia for dessert.
Day 4: Morning hike and Ward Center
Breakfast at Zippy's Kahala: A local chain serving family-friendly breakfast options. Find locations at Zippy's.
Morning hike:
Diamond Head: A quick uphill hike with iconic views, best for older kids. Details at Diamond Head.
Manoa Falls: A shaded, scenic hike through lush rainforest to a waterfall. Great for ages 5+. Info at Manoa Falls.
Lunch at Nico’s Pier 38: Try the fresh ahi poke. Menu and info at Nico’s Pier 38.
Shopping & play at Ward Center: Shop and enjoy an outdoor playground with ample free parking. Visit Ward Center.
Dinner options:
Kapa Hale: Cozy, upscale local cuisine in Kahala with great service. Learn more at Kapa Hale.
Merriman’s Honolulu: Spacious dining with great options for picky eaters. Details at Merriman’s Honolulu.
Additional days
Rainy day options:
Children’s Discovery Center – No reservation needed, and this museum has something for everyone. The highlight of this museum for my child was the Hawaiian Airlines flight simulator.
Bishop Museum – There is lots to do here for the whole family — art, culture, science and rotating exhibits as well as a planetarium where you can hear about the Hawaiian night sky.
Honolulu Museum of Art - They sometimes have classes or special events for families. You can dine free at the cafe without paying admission.
Kid City Adventure at Kapolei Commons (further from Honolulu but it is brand new), or Ward Center — truly the most amazing and clean indoor play area I have ever seen with something for all the kiddos from babies and older (parents will be amused too). I highly recommend this and eat at any of the nearby restaurants after — all in the same complex.
Need to know
As a guest in the Hawaiian Islands, it’s important to be respectful of the local culture, environment and community. Be mindful that tourism significantly impacts the islands, from over-tourism to contributing to rising costs for locals. Support local businesses (SALT at Our Kaka'ako is a great one, as is dining at Kapa Hale), practice eco-friendly habits and embrace the spirit of aloha by showing kindness and gratitude to the people and land that make Hawaiʻi so special.
Travel Advisor
Lacey Hayes
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Honolulu page.