Honolulu, the perfect tropical American city in the Pacific. If you’re like me and from the mainland, you will find that going to Hawaii brings you back in time. Literally three hours behind from the West Coast, so you will find yourself waking up very early while you’re there which is a good start to a day spent in Honolulu.
My Dad is from Honolulu and I have been there many times, with family, friends, my significant other, so I have a well-rounded idea of how a day can be spent there, and I will be going over something for everybody.
Morning
To start the day off right head over to the renowned Hawaiian breakfast spot, Eggs n’ Things. You can try all the local favorites like Loco Moco, Ahi and eggs, and Macadamia Nut Rainbow Pancakes and they have several locations in Honolulu with one right in the heart of Waikiki.
While digesting, take a stroll down Kalakaua Blvd before the crowds and admire the beautiful hotels, the beach, and a view of Diamondhead Crater.
Next, catch a ride into the mountains to hike to Moana Falls. This is a beginner level hour hike of about a mile each way that takes you through the tropical jungle and bamboo forests.
Once you reach the end of the trail you will be at the base of the 150-foot waterfall able to feel its mist and see to the top. While you are in the Moana Falls area, I highly suggest stopping by the Lyon Arboretum which preserves many endangered Hawaiian plant species. This Botanical Garden has different trails within it and also hosts small water features.
Afternoon
Head back down into Waikiki for a wonderful lunch at Moose McGillicuddy’s. It is a restaurant/bar during the day and becomes a nightclub on the second level at night. They serve a killer Kalua Pork dish in large portions and make mean tropical drinks of your choice. I can tell you if yourself there in the evening the club has a small cover and you can expect to be listening to hip hop with a nice view of the busy Lewers Street below.
After your meal, you will be in the heart of Waikiki once again. This time as you stroll down Kalakaua Ave stop by the International Market Place, a lively place that offers world-class shopping and dining. In the evenings there is a traditional Hawaiian dance performance in the courtyard under a giant banyan tree. Once you finish with the sights in the Marketplace you can head across the street to Waikiki beach and enjoy a dip or surf lessons.
Evening
Once the dinner hour rolls around head over to Honolulu’s Chinatown for a bowl of ramen at the very hip Lucky Belly restaurant. They offer creative appetizers like oxtail dumplings and lobster Shu Mai set inside their reclaimed brick and wood walls. For the main event of Ramen, they have five mouth-watering options including shrimp, brisket, and veggie choices. Their amazing “Lucky Libations” menu is also to be admired with options with Japanese whisky and fruit drinks.
After you’ve had your fill of ramen you are in the middle of the Arts and Culture neighborhood that is Chinatown. Be sure to check the events calendar for amazing things like First Fridays which host the ART+FLEA event where local artists and designers showcase their crafts.
Another great thing to do is hit up the Hawaii Voice KTV and Lounge for some karaoke. This scaled-up spot has all the song choices you could ever want, different themed rooms, and amazing shochu drinks.
I did say there was something for everyone, so if you looking for adult entertainment head over to Club 939. Also located in Chinatown this club offers 3 separate stages, very good talent, and a cheap cover.
Conclusion
If you find yourself in Hawaii my perfect Honolulu itinerary will ensure that you have an incredible day. Even if you do just one of two things front my list you will get an immersive Honolulu experience that you won’t forget.
