eats
This beach bar/restaurant is an island staple in Waikiki with it's breathtaking views and island music. Indulge in a tropical Mai Tai or a yummy Lava Flow. You won't be mad if you stop here for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or anything in between. We love their Beach Fries and Opah "Dukes Style" and you can't miss the Hula Pie. No reservation, no problem go early when the host stand opens and put a name in 2 hrs before you would like to sit or snag a table in the bar it’s open seating. Celebrating a birthday? Your Hula pie is free.
We love the Banana Mac Nut Pancakes and amazing assortment of omelettes. Jump online to get on the waitlist.
Go here for a decent coffee and pastry to start your day. This place gets a thumbs up and we are picky with our coffee. The line is worth the wait but if you prefer to skip it, you can purchase beans with your coffee/pastry order and go straight to the front.
The North Shore has some pretty amazing food trucks. The link above gives you a good summary of what they offer.
Best shave ice on the island. This little shack on the North Shore has grown for a reason. Stop in and enjoy while cruising through historic Haleiwa.
This Hawaiian staple is located near the Four Seasons, however don't miss out on the other locations throughout the islands.
BEACHES
Waikiki
Waikiki is probably one of the most famous beaches in the world, known for it's white sugar sand, slow rolling aqua waves, and stunning diamond head view. You can rent anything and everything here but you will be contending with the crowds. Don't let that spoil your fun, post up by The Royal Hawaiian (aka The Pink Hotel) and enjoy the view. Jump on a Catamaran for a sunset cruise or rent a board and have fun. Everyone is a kook here so hang loose.
Sandy Beach
This beach has one of the best body surfing/boarding waves on the planet. Please don't attempt to do this unless you are experienced as this wave can be brutal. Nonetheless this beach is worth a stop while driving the beautiful Kalanianaole Highway.
Makapu'u
Keep cruising the Kalanianaole Highway and you will hit this beautiful beach surrounded by sea cliffs. This beach is also known for it's large shore break so it's not the best spot for a leisurely swim.
Kailua and Lanikai
These white sand beaches are on the windy side of Oahu. This is the spot if you enjoy kite surfing, wind surfing, kayaking, or watching people do these activities while laying on a beautiful white sand beach taking in the aqua waters and sites. This beach is usually very swimmable as well. You can cut across the Pali Highway to get here the quick way from Waikiki or take the scenic route along the Kalanianole Highway
Hiking
This is a beautiful easy hike to do with kids, about 40min in and out. You can get dropped or pay to park. As long as it’s not wet you can do this in flip flops but Erin recommends shoes. Afterwards cruise by Andy’s to get a sandwich at one of our favorite college spots. There is also an amazing poke spot right next door if you prefer that.
Get ready for a booty burn and your kids to cry. This is worth the workout for the view.
The views on this hike are gorgeous. This is a fun little ridge line hike and you can pick how far you want to go. There are three pill boxes in total and the views down to Lanikai and Kailua are insane on a sunny day.
This is an easy 2.5mile get your body moving hike. It’s a good one to do if you are driving from Waikiki to the East side of the island along the coast.