Welcome back to the final chapter of our Oahu exploration, where we dive into the practical aspects of planning your trip. From choosing accommodations among the array of hotels in Honolulu to navigating flights to Oahu, we’ll cover the essentials for a seamless journey. Starting with the bustling Honolulu International Airport, we’ll guide you through the logistics of arrival before delving into the vibrant Aloha Stadium swap meet. Then, we’ll tantalize your taste buds with the iconic flavors of kalua pork and the irresistible treats from Leonard’s Bakery. Get ready to uncover the practicalities and pleasures of Oahu as we embark on this informative journey together. So, grab your sunscreen and sense of adventure because Oahu is about to take you on a ride you won’t forget!
Navigating Oahu
Flights to Oahu
Navigating the skies smoothly requires some practical planning. While Hawaiian Airlines used to be the top recommended airline for any flight into Hawaii, it has lost its charm in recent years in my opinion. The days of authentic Hawaiian inspired in-flight meals are long gone, unless you’re sitting in first class. I have also noticed a decline in the Aloha spirit that I once experienced during my first flight with Hawaiian Airlines many years ago. Therefore, I recommend choosing the airline that you are most comfortable with, or one that you are already a member of, to maximize your benefits. Personally, I prefer Southwest Airlines as their policy of providing two free checked bags really came in handy when moving a student to and from the island each year. If you plan to do a lot of shopping or tend to pack heavily, it’s worth considering.
Honolulu Airport
When visiting Oahu, you will travel through the Danial K. Inouye International Airport (HNL), which is the largest airport in Hawaii. As you make your way towards the baggage claim, you will need to walk a bit, but you will find a beautiful garden in the center that can serve as a quiet spot for some last-minute relaxation before heading home.
If you plan to travel to other islands, consider flying into HNL first, as this could potentially save you money on your trip. Additionally, layovers in one of the smaller islands during your stay on Oahu can give you the chance to explore more of Hawaii for a few hours.
It is important to note that there are restrictions on bringing plants, animals, and agricultural products into and out of Hawaii. You will need to declare any such items you bring with you on the Agricultural Declaration Form that you will receive during your flight. Additionally, all checked-in bags must pass through an agricultural inspection when you leave. Make sure to use the inspection station located directly in front of your ticket counter, as it is specific to the airline you are traveling with. Attempting to use a station away from your airline counter could result in having to repeat the process.
Despite tourism being the largest source of capital for Hawaii’s economy, navigating the Honolulu Airport is usually seamless and does not feel overly crowded. Regardless of your mode of transportation to leave the airport, you can still request a lei greeting as a lovely welcome to the beautiful island of Hawaii.
Car Rental vs Public Transportation
Transportation is a common concern among people planning a trip to Oahu. Whether you need a car or not depends on your itinerary and how much time you have. Honolulu has an excellent public transportation system, with frequent and efficient bus routes. I have used this option instead of renting a car during many of my visits, and my daughter relied solely on public transportation while living in Honolulu. Rideshare services like Lyft and Uber are readily available in most areas as well. However, if you plan to venture outside the city center, having a car is more practical. While there are bus routes available to other areas of the island, they run less frequently and take longer due to the number of stops along the way.
The rental car hub at the Honolulu airport is located just outside the baggage claim area across the street. When booking a car, make sure you select this option and not another rental location near the airport. I learned this the hard way and ended up paying a $25 tax fee to travel just one mile from the airport. Be prepared for a long wait at the rental desk, as it can get quite busy due to the high number of tourists visiting. As a result, it is almost impossible to get a car on the same day. Therefore, it is advisable to book your car reservation ahead of time.
Want an effortless vacation? Use our expertly crafted Oahu itinerary!
Best Oahu Hotels
There are plenty of hotels available on the island, but it’s important to have realistic expectations. Since this is a small island located in the vast Pacific Ocean, the accommodations tend to be smaller, less luxurious, and sometimes more outdated than what mainlanders are used to paying for. However, this doesn’t mean that there aren’t some amazing places to stay. When you’re looking for a hotel in Honolulu, it’s important to consider what kind of experience you want to have. Most luxury hotels offer on-site activities and luaus, while more modest options are situated right in the middle of Waikiki, putting you in the heart of the action. Determining your travel style and desired experience before booking your accommodation will help you make the most of your trip. Personally, I would be happy to sleep in a tent on the beach just to be in Hawaii.
Luxury Oahu Resorts
Aulani Disney Resort and Spa
I was fascinated by the Aulani Disney Resort after watching Scott Walter explore the mystery of the Menehune on an episode of America Unearthed. The legend of the Menehune comes alive for visitors as they embark on a treasure hunt throughout the resort on the Menehune Adventure Trail. As expected from Disney, the resort offers a wide range of activities for all ages. Children can enjoy character interactions, various excursions, and a secluded beach while adults can indulge in the spa, garden, and golfing. Families can also gather around the fire-pit for storytelling or watch the luau together. Disney even provides a day pass for non-guests who wish to access some of the amenities like the pools, beach, and restaurants on the site.
Hilton Hawaiian Village
This Honolulu resort is composed of a series of hotels in the vicinity, so you are sure to find one that matches your travel preferences. The location features a tranquil lagoon, ideal for swimming or relaxing on the sandy beach. Check out their website’s activity and entertainment calendar to discover on-site activities and events that you can enjoy, which you may not find while exploring Honolulu on your own. In addition, the resort offers 18 different dining options, giving you plenty of choices even if you spend several days within the resort.
Moana Surfrider Westin Resort and Spa
This is the oldest hotel in Hawaii, and it is situated right on Waikiki Beach. Its Victorian-style architecture is unique among the other accommodations on the Avenue. The hotel takes you back in time with its afternoon tea and historic tour options. The large banyan tree situated near the pool has been a part of the property for at least 100 years, making it a unique feature that no other luxury hotel on the island can boast of. If you love the aesthetics of a historical location but also want to enjoy the amenities of a luxury hotel and be in the heart of the action, this is the perfect hotel for you.
To learn more about the hotel’s history and its influence on Hawaii’s tourism boom, check out my second Oahu article HERE.
Royal Hawaiian
The Royal Hawaiian hotel has been a fixture on Waikiki Beach for nearly as long as the Moana Surfrider. Its Spanish-style architecture distinguishes it from other hotels in the area. Visitors can take a historical tour of the “Pink Palace of the Pacific”, which is offered more frequently than tours of the Moana Surfrider. The hotel also offers unique activities such as lei-making workshops and seasonal events.
Turtle Bay
Escape from the hustle and bustle of Honolulu and Waikiki by visiting this remarkable Oahu resort located on the tranquil North Shore. Experience unique activities such as horseback riding on the beach and surfing with a dog that are not available anywhere else. You’ll also find sea turtles along the shore. To make the most of your stay, check their website’s activities calendar for any events and make reservations in advance.
Affordable Hotels in Honolulu
Ala Moana Honolulu
This hotel is situated close to downtown and the Convention Center, away from the touristy area of Waikiki. The rooms are clean and spacious, making it a comfortable stay. Additionally, the hotel is conveniently located near many activities. The Ala Moana Shopping Center is just a few steps away, offering a wide variety of shopping and dining options. I highly recommend starting your day at Liliha Bakery, located next to Macy’s, for a delicious coffee and pastry. The boat harbor is just a short walk away, where you can join various tour groups for offshore excursions. Moreover, Magic Island Lagoon is just across the street, which is one of the beaches I recommended in my blog. Additionally, you’ll be close to popular attractions in downtown Honolulu such as Iolani Palace and the Honolulu Museum of Art. The Ala Moana Hotel is still conveniently located near Waikiki, allowing for easy access to other popular destinations via a quick drive or bus ride.
Kaimana Beach Hotel
Located on the southern tip of Waikiki, Kaimana Beach Hotel offers a perfect blend of a laid-back surfer vibe and a high-end atmosphere. The hotel’s private beach provides umbrellas and chairs for a comfortable beachside afternoon. Guests can enjoy ukulele lessons or water sports activities at the hotel, and the snorkeling in the area is exceptional. During our surf lesson, we had a curious sea turtle come by to check out our skills. Diamond Head is located to the south, and the Waikiki Aquarium, Honolulu Zoo, and Kapi’olani Regional Park are a short walk to the north. In the evening, I highly recommend grabbing a bite at the Barefoot Beach Café, where you can enjoy some live music while savoring some delicious food.
Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort
Influenced by local artists, this trendy hotel offers a one-of-a-kind aesthetic that is unique to the area. Enjoy live music performed by talented local artists every day or relax and watch a movie poolside on Saturday night. The hotel is situated on Waikiki Beach, which means that you can partake in all the activities that Waikiki has to offer.
There are several types of accommodation available on the island that cost less than $200 per night. Additionally, there are private rentals located in different areas of the island. I won’t go into detail here, but there’s an option for everyone who’s coming to visit.
Food Recommendations
The food scene in Hawaii is heavily influenced by the variety of cultural immersions in the area. If you enjoy seafood, Hawaii is the place to be as it offers Poke options all over, made with the freshest fish. You may also opt for fishing charter options, where the fish is taken right off your pole and prepared in front of you. Traditional Hawaiian cuisine is a must-try, such as the kalua pork plate, which is served with rice and macaroni salad, and is my personal favorite. You should also try something with taro, which is a sweet, purple yam used in baked goods. Stop by Liliha or Leonard’s Bakery for some of the best options! Poi is another dish that is made from fermented taro, mashed, and not appreciated by everyone. Loco moco is a traditional comfort dish in Hawaii made with rice, meat, gravy, and egg, and is available almost everywhere. If you have a sweet tooth, like me, you must try at least one malasada, which is a type of filled donut. And for a uniquely Hawaiian treat, try something with haupia, which is a coconut custard.
It is important to keep in mind that most products are imported from the mainland, so prices are higher than what you may be used to. Therefore, you should plan to spend no less than $10 to $15 per person at the low end of your budget for food.
Foodie Explorations
North Shore Food Trucks: Right next to the shrimp farms, these food trucks serve up the freshest shrimp options on the island.
Haleiwa Town: Indulge in a culinary adventure, exploring the unique eateries and various food truck options.
Dole Plantation: All things pineapple, including Dole Whip.
Leonard’s Bakery: The best malasadas can be found here and everyone knows it so you should be prepared to wait in a long line to get in.
Shopping and Souvenirs
While walking down Kalakaua Ave, you’ll come across a variety of shopping options. From high-end brands like Louis Vuitton to local stores like ABC Store, everything can be found along this stretch of road. However, if you’re interested in shopping locally, you might want to visit the daily pop-up markets or art festivals, where you can explore the creativity and community spirit and find some unique off-the-beaten-path treasures. Many of the larger luxury hotels also feature artists displaying their handmade goods in the lobby or courtyard. My personal favorite shopping spot is the Aloha Stadium in Honolulu Swap Meet. Planning ahead is necessary since it only operates on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, which may affect a tight itinerary. If you’re on a budget, you can visit the local grocery store Don Quixote, which is located close to the Ala Moana shopping center. It provides an affordable option for groceries, souvenirs, and food vendors.
Fun Facts and Tips
- While some places on the island allow you to wear a bathing suit, certain locations, such as the Iolani Palace, have a dress code that should be followed to show respect for the site.
- You should only use your car horn while driving in Hawaii if you are saying “hello” to someone as you’re passing by.
- Giving and receiving a lei holds deep cultural significance, unless you pregnant, etiquette dictates that you accept it when offered, and wear it as long as you are in the presence of the giver.
- Locals appreciate the use of “aloha” and “mahalo” (please and thank you), so use them.
- Name-dropping or wearing flashy clothes can be perceived as arrogance, so stay humble.
As we conclude this journey through the practicalities and pleasures of Oahu, let’s reflect on the insights gained. From the bustling arrivals at Honolulu Airport to the cultural immersion of the Aloha Stadium swap meet, each experience has enriched our understanding of this vibrant island. Remember the savory allure of kalua pork and the indulgent delights of Leonard’s Bakery as you plan your future adventures. Whether you’re reminiscing on past travels or mapping out your next excursion, may the knowledge gained here enhance your journey. If you have recently been to Oahu, please share your experience in the comments below. Let’s help each other by sharing our recommendations and making the most out of our trip!
