I visited Hawaii years ago ON A BUDGET so this list is a lot of “what to do” and not so much “where to eat” since I was mostly eating free hostel pancakes and pasta I packed in my suitcase. But GOSH it was a good time!
Sections
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Activities
Eats
Places to Stay
Activities
What to do in Oahu
Can't not stop by the ICONIC beach… beautiful views, warm water, nice waves
Waikiki Beach
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Even if you don't know how to surf, you gotta paddle out there to enjoy the waves. Just make sure to stay out of the way!
Best Places to Rent a Surfboard in Waikiki
You don't have to stay at this hotel to access the lagoon. Picturesque spot with nice walking/longboarding paths
Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon at Hilton Hawaiian Village
Nice spot to walk/run a little away from the touristy crowds of the beach
Ala Wai Canal
Take the bus over from Waikiki for a few bucks, spend the afternoon at this stunning beach
Waimanalo Beach
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Cool beach with an awesome water-front basketball court
Shark’s Cove
Scramble up through overgrown forest, pop out to some beautiful peaks. GO WITH A GUIDE! They will know where it is safe to climb. And usually take great pics. DO NOT GO if it has been raining. It will be slippery and muddy and dangerous.
Pali Notches
Some of the best snorkelling I've ever done. Absolutely worth the small entrance fee. BOOK AHEAD OF TIME! Great to combine with hiking Koko Crater (they are super close together).
Hanauma Bay State Park - Hours • Pricing • Activities
Just incredible! But be ready: it is a LONG and HARD hike that is dangerous, and parts of it are illegal. Make sure you do it the safe and legal way!!!
Stairway to Heaven Hike, Oahu
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Absolute GRIND essentially up a huge staircase. Make sure to keep going at the top to check out the views down the back side! Great to combine with snorkelling at Hanauma Bay (they are super close together).
Koko Crater Railway Trailhead
Very easy walk with amazing views.
Diamond Head Crater Hike
Eats
Where to eat in Oahu
Fresh local produce and treats - what's not to love?
KCC Farmers' Market
slaps
Haleʻiwa Bowls
Places to Stay
Where to Stay in Oahu
Camping at this BEAUTIFUL beach was a treat for the views, but there are a lot of people who live here full time and are not super friendly to visitors so as a solo female I would avoid it
Waimanalo Beach Park - C&C of Honolulu Camping Permits
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A good hostel. Private and shared rooms, short walk to the beach, cute shared spaces, yummy pancake breakfasts.
