Oahu, Hawaii Travel Guide 2023 || Best Things To Do

Aloha, friends! I visited Hawaii for the first time last year and fell in love with the beautiful beaches and friendly faces— it seemed fitting to kick start my year full of traveling with a trip back. After an incredible week exploring Oahu, Hawaii I’m tan, happy, and ready to sit and spill all of the details from my trip!

Today I’m sharing a jam-packed travel guide complete with my seven-day itinerary, restaurant recommendations, and packing list. We did everything from hiking rainforests to swimming along private beaches. It was the perfect mix of isalnd adventure and relaxing beach days!

I’m so happy with the way this post came together and after my second trip back to Honolulu I really feel like I’ve mastered it! I’ve spent hours capturing this content and putting it all together so I hope you enjoy—feel free to share it with friends and fam + check out my other travel guides for various other destinations here.

Let’s get into it!

Transportation In Hawaii

Getting to Hawaii from Maryland is no easy (or quick) task. We flew out of Baltimore and thirteen hours later arrived in Honolulu for a week full of fun! While rental cars are a popular option I decided against getting us one for a few different reasons—1) Finding parking in the city is tough 2) There are plenty of Ubers readily available at all times of the day 3) After punching the numbers, even if we were to Uber everywhere we desired to go, it would still be cheaper than renting a car.

Plus, I knew from my last trip here that a majority of our activities would have round-trip transportation provided. I’ll discuss this further in the “Go City” section of this post. Within the city of Waikiki things are very walkable with restaurants, beaches, and shopping just steps away from the hotels! They also have a widely used public transportation system so taking the bus is also an option.

Where To Stay

I took my parents on this trip for a Christmas present and the three of us stayed together in Waikiki for seven nights total. We spilt our time between two different hotels— The Hyatt Centric which I’ve stayed at previously and loved and The Twin Fin which was just recently rebranded and is right along the water. Both were amazing for different reasons. Here’s the full scoop.

Hyatt Centric Waikiki Beach (book here)

We spent our first four nights enjoying a beautiful oceanfront room at the Hyatt Centric Waikiki Beach. This property is incredibly modern and is just three blocks from the beach and the rest of the action. Their staff were so friendly, greeting me with a sweet welcome basket full of local Hawaiian snacks and sweets!

We stayed in one of their “2 Queen Beds With Ocean View” rooms and it was amazing. Not only was the room spotless but it was full of small details to make your stay even better—a cozy seating area, a large wardrobe to hang and store luggage, and the comfiest linens ever.

The bathroom in our room was also amazing with two double sinks and tons of space to get ready. I appreciate having all of extra counter space to make sharing a room a little more seamless. They also had a full-length mirror which is a huge plus. The walk-in shower even had a window so that you could still enjoy the ocean view while washing off your day full of sun. Obsessed!

This property also has amazing amenities including a beautiful moon pool and jacuzzi. There are tons of cabanas out here so this is the perfect spot to relax while getting some sun. They have a 24/7 gym, free beach towels & Tommy Bahama chairs/umbrellas, Go Pro rentals and a Starbucks located on the ground level. It doesn’t get much better than that!

The Twin Fin (book here)

For the second leg of our trip, we wanted to stay a little closer to the water so we spent three nights at The Twin Fin which was recently rebranded from Aston Waikiki Beach. This hotel is huge with hundreds of rooms and is located right across the street from the beach. There’s nothing better than being just steps away from the ocean!

We stayed in a “Partial Ocean View” room with two double beds. This room was far smaller than the one at Hyatt Centric but we did have a balcony with an incredible view of Waikiki. This was amazing at sunrise and sunset and we had our own little set of chairs so it was the perfect spot to sit and sip a drink!

Here’s a peek into our bathroom. Just one sink and a shower with a tub this time around.

While this property was a little less modern than the other, it still had everything we needed and of course, incredible amenities. They too had free beach towels and chairs, as well as two-hour paddleboard, snorkel, and surfboard rentals available! They have a huge pool area with a gazillion chairs and cabanas. Plus, you have a full ocean view from the pool deck which is hard to beat.

The Twin Finn also has its own restaurant and bar within it called Tikis. We came here for drinks and lunch one day and it was amazing. Super chill vibe, the friendliest staff, and super strong drinks. I highly recommend coming for a mai tai at happy hour; they have live music every evening and a jaw-dropping view of the sunset.

I’m so glad we got to experience both hotels. It was a fun change of pace and as I said, The Twin Fin is located right in the middle of all the action so getting to restaurants, shopping, and the beach *literally* took steps! If you’re wanting that convenience without breaking the bank, I highly suggest booking this property.

Using The Go City Pass

We did so much throughout our week-long trip to Hawaii and booked everything with our Go City passes. Go City is an all-inclusive sightseeing pass that allows you to visit various bucket-list attractions, enjoy top tours, and discover plenty of hidden gems.

Rather than paying an entry fee for each individual activity you pay one set price. Instead of dealing with paper tickets, you just scan your QR Go Citypass and you’re in! They have various different “tiers” but I ended up getting all three of us a 5-day All Inclusive pass. Within these five days, we were able to see as many attractions on their list at our own pace!

Everyone here uses Go City as it really is the best way to save time and money. The best part is, almost all of these activities provide transportation to and from the Waikiki-based hotels via private shuttle. More details are included within the booking link of each activity.

I’ve used Go City in Barcelona, Paris, Hawaii, and more and they really are the best!

Things To Do

My parents requested a mix of relaxing beach time and fun Hawaiian adventures so I gave them just that. We booked about one activity a day with our Go City passes, hitting up all of the typical tourist spots. We hiked, swam, and hula danced our way through the week.

For me, this was the perfect itinerary—we did an activity either first thing in the morning or last thing in the evening and then hit the beach for the remainder of our day. I’m a huge beach bum and will take all of the time in the water that I can get. I grabbed a towel, slathered on some sunscreen, and read a few books while enjoying the view.

When I wasn’t doing that you could find me doing this…

Makapuu Lighthouse & Halona Blowhole Tour

This Go City activity comes with round trip transportation from the Waikiki hotels. On your way to the Makapuu Lighthouse, you stop at Halona blowhole. I recommend scheduling this tour for the earliest time that way you can see the sunrise while you’re whale watching. You have about 15 minutes to enjoy the views and take pictures and then you continue on your way.

Once you get to Ka’iwi Scenic Shoreline you’re dropped off and given two hours to complete this two-mile “hike”. It’s more like a walk on an incline as it’s entirely paved. You get to enjoy some stunning views and there are several lookouts on the way up. At the top of the mountain you get a clear view of Makapuu Lighthouse and on a clear day can even see Maui from across the way. This was probably my favorite activity we did—the perfect way to get your body moving and start the day.

Manoa Valley Rainforest, Waterfalls, and Movie Sites Self-Guided Hike

Of course, I had to take them to the Manoa Valley rainforest. This self-guided hike is under two miles roundtrip and is rather painless. You definitely need a walking stick as the terrain gets a bit uneven along the top, and rather muddy once it rains. Several movies were filmed within this region—Hunger Games, Jumanji, and Jurassic Park just to name a few. It’s super cool to see in person and a good way to start your day!

Secret Island Beach at Kualoa Ranch

Kualoa Ranch is hands down one of the coolest things I’ve ever experienced, and easily the most beautiful. Along this ranch, there are several different activities to partake in: ATV riding, zip-lining, horseback riding, and more. It’s also where several movies including 50 First Dates and Jurrasic Park were filmed.

I did their Secret Island getaway last year and loved it so much that I knew I needed to come back with my parents. With this day trip, you’re taken to a private island with a group of roughly 30 people. They have every water activity imaginable and we did them all— paddle boarding, kayaking, canoeing to a sandbar, and riding the glass bottom boat to see sea turtles. They have chairs, bathrooms, and changing areas all included. It’s incredibly relaxing and so stunning you won’t want to leave! A must.

Makani Catamaran Sunset Sail

There are two Makani Catamaran sails available through Go City but I recommend going with the sunset option! About an hour before sunset, you dock a small catamaran with about 25 other people. You sail for about two hours, enjoying the sunset while enjoying an all-you-can-drink open bar. They make their drinks nice and strong and the mai tais are delicious. The staff is all so friendly and it’s such a cool way to meet other traveling families.

I will note that it’s very windy during this excursion so I recommend swapping your sun dress for a pair of linen pants. Make sure you have flat shoes and bring a purse that zips! It cools down quite a bit so if you’re one who gets cold easily, I suggest a lightweight cardigan or linen button-up.

Moana Splash Luau 

You can’t go to Hawaii without going to a Luau. It is so cool getting to take a peek into Hawaiian culture. We booked the Moana Splash Luau with our Go City passes and were given a lei, a traditional Hawaiian buffet meal, and two mai-tais. There’s roughly an hour of entertainment, with all kinds of Hawaiian hula dancing. It’s incredible getting to see all of the different dances and costumes. Def a fun family activity for the evening!

Circle Island Tour With Snorkeling

Our last day was spent on a bus tour around the North Shore. We were gone all day—8 am-5 pm driving around the perimeter of the island while stopping at famous sites and food spots. If you don’t have a rental car, this is an awesome way to see more of the island.

You visit all kinds of popular spots— Halona Blowhole for pictures, Kualoa Ranch for the macadamia nut farms, Fumis for a traditional North Shore shrimp experience, and even the Kahuku fruit stand to purchase local goods. In the afternoon you have an hour to snorkel and enjoy one of the North Shore beaches. From there you head over to the Dole Plantation where you have to get a famous Dole Whip. So yummy!

It’s definitely a long day and a lot of getting on and off the bus but it’s worth it if you’re wanting to get the full experience!

Where To Eat

My favorite part of traveling is getting to try all of the local cuisines. The food in Hawaii is just incredible and there are endless options to choose from. Whether you’re craving a juicy pineapple burger, a fresh fruit bowl, or some spicy shrimp they’ve got it all. There are tons of high-end rooftop restaurants but just as many barefoot beach cafes and food trucks.

We hit some of my old favorites but tried lots of new places too! I think I consumed a gazillion calories on this trip and yet I couldn’t care less; I’d do it all over again if I could. Just a heads up, food is very expensive in Hawaii so be prepared to add roughly $50 a day onto your total budget (per person).

Cheeseburger In Paradise 

Menu // Directions

I’d been to Cheeseburger in Paradise several times before so I knew I needed to bring my parents. I got their island style cheeseburger which has teriyaki sauce, fresh pineapple, avocado, and their homemade barbecue sauce and it is so good! They have tons of unique options here and the option to swap any beef out for grilled chicken! My mom got their crusted Mahi sandwich and said it was some of the best fish she’s ever had. This restaurant is right across the street from the beach so it’s a great, casual place to eat while the sun goes down!

Tikis Bar and Grill 

Menu // Directions

This restaurant is located on the third floor of the Twin Finn hotel and it’s a must. The view of the ocean is just incredible but the vibes are casual. I had an amazing pork quesadilla here bursting with flavor and a bit of pineapple! Their drinks are pricey but super strong so just a couple of mai tais will have you feeling good. They also have live music every night so it’s a great spot to catch the sunset or enjoy a happy hour!

Wave Daves 

Menu // Directions

Acai bowls are one of my favorite things about Hawaii—they are just so much better here! Wave Daves was a cute cafe I found on my way to the beach and they had my favorite bowl of the week. Strawberries, blueberries, banana, coconut, and a heaping serving of granola for $12. That’s a steal for Hawaii! My dad raved about their ham, egg, and cheese sandwich. Super cute spot if you’re wanting something quick to go.

Tommy Bahama 

Menu // Directions

Not only is this restaurant adorable but the food was amazing. You have to get the blackened mahi mahi tacos—the portions are gigantic and they are so flavorful. The combination of cajun spice, lime slaw, and chipotle aioli was unmatched. I also tried their coconut shrimp which were very yummy. Great atmosphere here, would definitely recommend!

La Pina Cantina 

Menu // Directions

These shrimp tempura tacos were just as good as I remembered. I came to La Pina Cantina the last time I was in Hawaii and loved them so much that I had to come back. The shrimp are so fresh and the mango salsa is a sweet surprise. It’s located in the Waikiki Food Hall so if your whole party isn’t feeling up for Mexican, there are tons of different restaurant options to choose from.

Barefoot Beach Cafe 

Menu // Directions

Barefoot Beach Cafe is the cutest waterfront restaurant. It’s sort of secluded, standing alone amidst a huge park where workout classes and surf lessons take place so it’s always packed full of people. We waited nearly an hour to order and receive our food and while my acai bowl was delicious, I wouldn’t say it was worth the wait haha. Definitely some yummy breakfast options here though and you just can’t beat the incredible view.

Fumis Shrimp Shack

Directions

If you’re headed to the North Shore you have to try a shrimp shack. It’s one of the things they are most known for and rightfully so. It’s delicious! We went to Fumis, a popular spot along the North Shore that sells take-out plates of shrimp, rice, and pineapple. Their tempura is my favorite but my mom raved about their spicy shrimp. It’s a super chill shack with outdoor seating, live music, and is cash only!

Giovanni Pastrami 

Menu // Directions

This restaurant wouldn’t have been our first choice but the Green Bay Packers were playing so naturally we had to go and watch. It had your typical bar restaurant feel to it and to my surprise the pineapple pizza here was amazing. I gave it an easy 10/10 which is rare for me! It had pineapple, polynesian sauce, bacon, green onion, and so much cheese it was insane. Incredibly flavorful.

Lulus 

Menu // Directions

A follower recommended Lulus to me and it did not disappoint. I had their chicken, bacon, avocado, cheese, chipotle mayo sandwich with a side of fries and it was arguably my favorite meal of the whole trip. This was flavorful in all the best ways and the portions were huge! If you’re wanting seafood, my dad says their swordfish tacos were a 10/10. I would have loved to come back here for breakfast as I hear amazing things about their french toast but unfortunately, we didn’t have time to make it back.

Liliha Bakery 

Menu // Directions

If you’re looking for a sweet treat to start your morning, stop by this bakery within the International Marketplace. I tried a masala here which is a traditional Portuguese donut and it was so yummy! Another Hawaiian “must have” as the locals would say.

Omg Tacos 

Menu // Directions

OMG Tacos is a great place to go if you’re looking for something quick and easy. This order-at-the-counter place was similar to Chipotle offering burritos, bowls, and quesadillas with fresh Hawaiian favorites. I got a bowl and it was delicious + very cheap compared to most restaurants in Hawaii. The portions are huge too so you’re able to bring home some leftovers. Don’t skip out on their chips and guac—they’re amazing.

Steak Shack 

Menu // Directions

Unfortunately, this is the one meal I didn’t get a picture of, and ironically it was one of the best I had. This little shack is right along the beach and serves takeaway containers of the most amazing steak, rice, and veggies for $10. It’s a huge portion for the price and their sauces are to die for. I only had it once but I’ll be thinking about it for months to come, lol. Truly the perfect grab-and-go meal if you plan on hanging out at the beach all day.

Things To Pack

I went to Oahu, Hawaii for ten days in 2022 so I had a pretty good idea of what to pack for this trip. Unlike other tropical vacations, you’re going to need a bit of variety—a swimsuit for each day, plenty of casual “going to dinner” outfits, and a handful of “active” outfits that can work for the hikes and such. The dress code here is incredibly casual so no need to stress too much about what to pack.

For fifteen outfits that I wore on my trip to Hawaii + links to everything, you can check out this blog post. In the meantime, I’m going to share a mini packing list of things you definitely need!

• Fanny Pack: I brought my Lululemon Belt Bag with me and it was a lifesaver. Whether it be for a day full of traveling, hiking, or just running out to grab breakfast this is always my go-to for my wallet, phone, keys, and such. I actually brought both my white and black with me and my dad ended up borrowing one for most of the week, haha.
• Lots of Swimsuits: I found myself in a swimsuit almost every day. Make sure you bring a few as you’ll need them for your beach days, boating, snorkeling, etc. Plus, almost every hotel here has a pool!
• Long Pants: Temperatures tend to drop in the evenings so I suggest bringing a pair of long pants with you! I brought a pair of jeans and a pair of linen pants that I rotated in the evening time for dinner and our sunset sail.
• Linen Button Up: If I wasn’t wearing a tank and pants to dinner, you could probably find me in a sundress with a linen button-up over top. There isn’t a beach trip I go on that I don’t recommend bringing one on—they work perfect as a beach cover-up but are also a great layer for those brisk evening temperatures.
• Flat Shoes: Leave your heels at home. I promise you won’t wear them here, even if you are going somewhere a little more upscale. Instead, I recommend flat shoes like lace-up sandals or flip-flops. I wore my Franco Sarto slip-ons with everything and they worked just fine! Like I said, it’s super casual in Hawaii.
• Sneakers: If you plan on going on any of the hikes, into the rainforest, or ATVing you’re going to need a pair of sneakers. I recommend leaving your Converse home and bringing a real pair of running sneakers instead!
• A Tote Bag: Whether you’re a girl or a guy, you’re going to want to bring a tote bag with you. Something simple you can throw your water, sunglasses, sunscreen, and towel into for a day at the beach will work just fine. I brought a few with me so that I could have cute photo props!
• Bug Spray: I brought tons of sunscreen but didn’t even think to pack bug spray with me. If you’re prone to mosquito bites, which I definitely am, then be sure to pack some and lather up before your outdoor adventures.
• A Towel: Both of our hotels provided free beach towels but if you are staying in an Airbnb, they oftentimes do not. I recommend bringing a towel just in case—you’ll need it more than you may think!

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What an incredible trip to Hawaii it was! I knew I’d love Oahu since I’ve been before but I think this trip was even better than the last. So much fun getting to explore new parts of the island while of course, soaking up the sun! I’m dying to get back to Hawaii soon to explore Maui… perhaps a trip later in 2023 is in the cards. Stay tuned!

I hope you’ve found today’s post helpful—while I do go on these adventures for me, I also go on them to provide information and share insight with you. Our packed full itinerary certainly didn’t steer us wrong, and I hope the same for you on your next adventure. Let me know if you end up doing any of the things I recommended. Mahalo!

With love, McKenz

Latest Post: 15 Outfit Ideas To Wear In Hawaii 2023
Related Post: Oahu, Hawaii Travel Guide 2022
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