Close your eyes and think of Hawaii. I bet you’re imagining rugged lava rock meeting crystal-clear waters. Swaying palm trees lining sandy golden beaches. Sea turtles basking on black sand and manta rays gliding effortlessly through the water. And the food? Think shave ice, fresh poke, and some of the best coffee on the planet. A three day Kona itinerary?! Let’s do this!

After exploring Oahu, Maui, and Kauai multiple times, we figured it was finally time to check out Kona over on The Big Island. It was the last major Hawaiian island on our list, and honestly, I have no idea why we waited so long. It’s just a quick and easy flight from San Francisco (where we’re based!), yet somehow, over a decade passed between our first trip to Hawaii in 2013 and finally making it here. Better late than never, right?

After finally visiting, I can confidently say Kona has a completely different vibe from the other islands. It’s raw, rugged, and way less polished – but in the best way possible. Here’s how I’d spend 3 days in Kona and nearby. 

3 Days in Kona Itinerary Logistics

3 Days in Kona At-A-Glance

• Day 1: Downtown Kona, Magic Sands Beach Park, night snorkel with manta rays (whatever you do, don’t miss this! — it’s absolutely EPIC)
• Day 2: Kua Bay and/or Makalawena, Kings’ Shops in Waikoloa Village, sea turtles at Kaloko-Honokōhau, sunset drinks 
• Day 3: Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau, snorkel at Two Step Beach or join a catamaran tour, tour a Kona coffee farm, soak at Mamalahoa Hot Tubs, and Hawaiian Luau

Where is Kona, HI?

Kona sits on the sun-drenched western coast of Hawai’i Island, better known as the Big Island. This stretch of coastline is part of the larger Kona District, which spans much of the island’s southwest. And it’s just gorgeous!

Geographically, it sits between the Pacific Ocean to the west and the Kohala Mountains to the north, with the Mauna Loa volcano to the south. The town of Kailua-Kona, often referred to simply as “Kona,” is the heart of the region and where you’ll find not only tourists but plenty of locals. 

Unlike Hilo, which lies on the rainy, jungle-covered east coast, Kona is all about dry, sunny weather – perfect for snorkeling, diving, and lounging with a mai tai in hand. It’s about a 2.5 to 3-hour drive between the two, and while Kona is a bit removed from some of the Big Island’s major sights like Mauna Kea and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, it makes up for it with epic ocean views, world-class coffee farms, and OMG the sunsets.

Kona isn’t Honolulu – there’s no towering skyline, no Waikiki Beach crowds, and definitely no rush-hour traffic. What will you find instead? A laid-back, beachy vibe, charming seaside restaurants, and some of the best snorkeling and manta ray night dives in the world. If you’re looking for a slower-paced, sun-soaked Hawaiian escape, Kona is exactly where you want to be.

Remember – Don’t expect to find the iconic sights of Pearl Harbor, Waikiki Beach, or the Road to Hana here – those are over on Oahu and Maui. Kona has its own kind of magic, with rugged lava fields, crystal-clear snorkeling spots, and a more laid-back, uncrowded vibe.

How to Get to Kona, HI

Getting to Kona is refreshingly easy, whether you’re flying in from the mainland, island-hopping from elsewhere in Hawaii, or even arriving by cruise ship. We’re especially lucky to be only a 5 hour non-stop flight away!

Flying to Kona 

The main gateway to the Big Island is Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport (KOA), located just north of Kailua-Kona. It’s well-connected to major U.S. cities, with nonstop flights from the West Coast, including Los Angeles (5.5 hours), Seattle (6 hours), and San Francisco (5 hours). If you’re coming from the East Coast, expect an 11-12 hour journey with a layover – most likely in Honolulu, San Francisco, Los Angeles, or Dallas.

Flying in from another Hawaiian island? Super simple! Interisland flights on Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest connect Kona to Honolulu, Maui, and Kauai in under an hour, making it easy to add Kona to your island-hopping itinerary.

One of the things I love most about living in California is how easy it is to jet off to Hawaii for a long weekend. With multiple daily nonstop flights from San Francisco (SFO) and Los Angeles (LAX), it’s basically a five-hour flight to paradise. And because of that, we’re trying to get to Hawaii as much as humanly possible, because we may not live on the West Coast forever!

Trust me – there’s nothing like stepping off the plane in Hawaii, feeling the warm, salty air and knowing you’ve officially arrived in paradise. And just like in Palm Springs, the entire airport is practically outside and covered in palm trees!

Coming by Cruise Ship

Many longer Hawaiian cruises include a stop in Kona, typically for a day of exploring before continuing to other ports like Hilo or Maui. Since the harbor isn’t deep enough for large ships to dock, passengers take tenders (small boats) from ship to shore, adding a bit of adventure to the arrival!

How to Get Around Kona

Getting around Kona depends on where you’re staying and what you plan to do. Here’s a breakdown of your best options:

• Walking: If you’re staying in downtown Kailua-Kona, you’re in luck – it’s super walkable. Ali‘i Drive, the scenic oceanfront road, is packed with shops, restaurants, and historic sites, making it easy to explore on foot. Just keep in mind that once you venture beyond the town center, you’ll need another mode of transport.

• Rental Car: Highly recommended if you want to see more than just the downtown area. While Kona itself is compact, the Big Island is, well, big, and many of the best beaches and attractions aren’t within walking distance. We loved Kua Bay (more on that below), but getting there by Uber would’ve been pricey. And if you’re staying longer than 3 days in Kona, you’ll definitely want a rental car to visit places like Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, Pu‘uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park, and Green Sand Beach.

• Public Transit: Kona does have a public bus system, but it’s not the most convenient for tourists. Routes are limited, and buses don’t always run frequently. It’s fine for short trips around town but not ideal for reaching the island’s best spots.

• Rideshares: Uber and Lyft do exist in Kona, but they’re not as widely available as in bigger cities. They work well for short trips (like getting to/from the airport or a night out in town), but if you’re heading to more remote beaches, doing scenic drives, or exploring national parks, you’ll probably save money (and hassle) by renting a car.

• Island Hopping & Cruises: If you’re visiting from another Hawaiian island, inter-island flights are quick and easy, with Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest offering frequent service. Also, some major cruise lines stop in Kona on longer Hawaii itineraries, giving visitors a day to explore before sailing on.

When to Visit Kona (Weather & Crowds)

Kona enjoys some of the best weather in Hawaii, thanks to the Kohala Mountains blocking much of the rainfall from the northeast trade winds. This means plenty of sunshine, warm temps in the 80s F year-round, and only about 20 rainy days per year – my dream! But while the weather is pretty consistent, the crowds, prices, and wildlife experiences change depending on when you visit. 

Here’s a breakdown of what to expect in each season:

Winter (December – March): Peak Season & Whale Watching

Winter is one of the busiest times in Kona, with visitors escaping the cold from the mainland. Expect higher prices on flights and hotels, especially around the holidays, and more people at popular beaches and attractions. 

But there’s another reason this season is so popular – it’s humpback whale season! Over 8,000 whales migrate to Hawaii’s warm waters, and Kona is one of the best places to see them. If whale-watching tours or spotting these gentle giants from the shore sound like your thing, winter is an epic time to visit. 

Spring (April – June): Fewer Crowds, Perfect Weather

Spring is a sweet spot for visiting Kona. The holiday rush is over, spring break crowds taper off by mid-April, and prices start to dip. The weather? Still sunny and warm, with little rain. Plus, you might still catch the tail end of whale season if you visit in early April. This is a great time to visit if you want all the sunshine with fewer people.

Summer (July – Early September): Hot & Bustling

Summer brings warmer temps, slightly more humidity, and an influx of families since schools are out. Crowds are up, but it’s still nowhere near as packed as Oahu or Maui in the summer. 

If you love snorkeling and diving, this is one of the best times for crystal-clear water – waves are calmer, making for incredible underwater visibility. Just book your accommodations early, as prices can rise during peak summer travel.

Fall (Mid-September – November): Best for Tranquility & Deals

If you’re looking for smaller crowds, lower prices, and still-perfect weather, fall is the time to visit Kona. We visited in late September and couldn’t have asked for a better experience – warm, sunny days with minimal rain, and far fewer tourists than we expected. 

Where to Stay in Kona

Kona has a little bit of everything when it comes to accommodations – from oceanfront resorts to budget-friendly hotels and even unique vacation rentals. But where you stay depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for of course. 

Do you want to be right in the heart of Kailua-Kona, close to restaurants and shops? Prefer a laid-back beachfront resort with easy access to the ocean? Or maybe you’re after a secluded retreat surrounded by lush nature? 

Let’s break it down:

Best Areas to Stay in Kona

• Kailua-Kona (Downtown Kona) – Perfect if you wanna be within walking distance of restaurants, bars, and shops (like us!). You’ll find mid-range hotels, budget inns, and oceanfront condos here. This is where most of the action happens, so it’s ideal if you want a lively atmosphere. 
• Keauhou – Located just south of Kailua-Kona, this area is home to upscale resorts, golf courses, and the famous manta ray night dives. It’s a great choice for relaxation with easy access to the main town.
• Hualālai / Four Seasons Area – If you’re going all out, this is where you’ll find luxury resorts with private beaches, top-tier dining, and spa experiences. The Four Seasons Hualālai is arguably the best resort in Kona (and comes with a hefty price tag).
• South Kona / Captain Cook – More of a quiet, local vibe with lush landscapes and coffee farms. Great if you want to be near Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park and Kealakekua Bay. Accommodations here are mostly vacation rentals and small inns.

Best Hotels & Resorts in Kona

Luxury Stays:

• Four Seasons Resort Hualālai – The ultimate high-end experience with oceanfront bungalows, infinity pools, and a private beach. $$$$$
• Holualoa Inn – A stunning boutique bed & breakfast tucked in the hills above Kona, with incredible ocean views. Peaceful and perfect for couples. $$$$

Mid-Range Resorts & Hotels:

• Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa – Located in Keauhou, this resort has gorgeous ocean views, a huge pool, and is famous for its manta ray viewing deck. $$$
• Royal Kona Resort – Right on the waterfront in downtown Kona, this hotel has an unbeatable location and ocean-facing rooms. The onsite tiki bar is a fun bonus. $$-$$$

Budget-Friendly & Vacation Rentals:

• Kona Tiki Hotel – A small, no-frills oceanfront hotel with a retro Hawaiian vibe. Super affordable, but books up fast! $$
• Vacation Rentals & Airbnbs – Kona has tons of beachfront condos, coffee farm stays, and private houses. Look in Kailua-Kona for convenience, or South Kona for a quieter stay. Prices vary depending on location and amenities.

Where We Stayed in Kona

Since we only booked 2 weeks out (it was a last minute decision to head to Kona), we stayed in a cozy airbnb right in downtown Kailua-Kona – perfect for gorgeous sunset views and easy access to everything in town. 

If you’re only spending 3 days in Kona, I highly recommend staying somewhere central so you can maximize your time. But if you’re planning a longer, more relaxing trip, a resort in Keauhou or a rental in South Kona might be a better fit.

TL;DR? If you want walkability, stay in downtown Kona. If you want a resort vibe, head to Keauhou. If you’re splurging, book the Four Seasons.

Kona vs. Hilo: Which Side of the Big Island is Right for You?

Choosing between Kona and Hilo? It all depends on what kind of experience you’re after. While both are on the Big Island, they couldn’t feel more different – from the weather to the landscapes to the activities available. A little cheat sheet:

• Kona (West Side) = Sunshine, beaches, snorkeling, and great food
• Hilo (East Side) = Rainforests, waterfalls, volcanoes, and a more local feel

Why Choose Kona?

If you’re dreaming of white sand beaches, crystal-clear water, epic snorkeling, and sunny days, Kona is the spot for you. The west side of the island is dry and warm year-round, making it ideal for beach hopping, exploring lava rock coastlines, and indulging in some of the best food and coffee Hawaii has to offer. Kona is also where you’ll find resorts, lively nightlife, and world-famous snorkeling and diving (hello, manta rays!).

Best for: Sun lovers, beach bums, coffee enthusiasts, and those who want a mix of adventure and relaxation.

Why Choose Hilo?

On the flip side, Hilo is lush, green, and tropical – think towering waterfalls, dense rainforests, and a more laid-back, local vibe. It gets way more rain than Kona, but that’s what makes it so vibrant. 

If you want to chase waterfalls, go ziplining, or explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hilo is your best bet. Just don’t expect many sandy beaches – the coastline here is more rugged, with dramatic cliffs and black sand beaches.

Best for: Nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those who don’t mind a little (or a lot of) rain.

So, Which One Should You Pick?

If you have limited time on the Big Island, Kona is the easier and more tourist-friendly choice. But if you want to see the island’s wilder, more tropical side, Hilo is worth a visit. 

Better yet? Do both! It’s about a 2.5 to 3-hour drive between the two, so you can easily split your time between the sunny beaches of Kona and the waterfalls of Hilo if you’ve got enough time. 

Are 3 Days in Kona Enough?

Absolutely – 3 days in Kona is plenty of time to soak up the sun, snorkel with manta rays, sip world-famous coffee, and explore the stunning coastline. But if you’re thinking about squeezing in a day trip to Hilo or Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, you might want to reconsider.

Sure, some people say it’s doable, but here’s the thing: Hilo is over two hours away, and the national park deserves at least a full day to truly experience the lava fields, craters, and epic landscapes. Plus, the weather on the east side is notoriously unpredictable – it rains over 200 days a year, meaning you’ll have zero wiggle room if the weather decides not to cooperate.

If you have extra time (and don’t mind packing up and staying on the other side of the island for a night), then yes, a visit to Hilo and Volcanoes National Park makes sense – especially if you’re into hiking, waterfalls, and volcanoes. But with just three days? Stick to Kona and the west coast. More sunshine, less driving, and way more time to actually enjoy paradise.

Psst – desperately wanna visit the other side of the island from Kona? Best to book a tour like this full day Volcanoes, Waterfalls, & Coffee Farm Day Trip. It includes hotel pick up and drop off, and all the best attractions – Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Kona Coffee Farm, Waipio Valley Lookout, Akaka and Rainbow Waterfalls, and Punalu’u Black Sand Beach. Literally the perfect tour if you’ve only got one day to dedicate to the east side of the island.

Of course if you’re coming from further than San Francisco, I obviously wouldn’t recommend coming all the way to Hawaii for only a mere 3 days, haha. But 3 days in Kona and nearby is the perfect addition to a longer Hawaiian itinerary. Especially if you’re planning to go to Volcanoes National Park near Hilo. 

What to Pack for Kona 

When packing for your trip, you wanna make sure you’ve got all the right clothing and gear for everything you’ve planned for your Kona itinerary. Think about the activities you’ll be doing, and prepare for those! 

Everyone will need their typical everyday clothing (shorts, t-shirts, tank tops, etc). A few pairs of shoes is a good idea – I recommend bringing a pair of flip flops, sandals, dressy shoes (for a nice dinner out), and sneakers/hiking boots if you’re planning on walking across lava fields (like to Makalawena Beach). I also recommend packing a light jacket or sweater, yes, even for Hawaii! Evenings can be breezy, and it gets chilly during manta ray snorkeling.

Women’s Packing List: You’ll obviously need all your favorite beach attire, including bathing suits (buy a few new ones!), beach cover-ups, loose cotton dresses, a cute sun hat, casual and dressy sandals.

Men’s Packing List: Be cool and casual during the day (my husband loves short sleeve button downs for a more polished look), but be sure to check the dress code for any restaurants you really wanna go to. Men might need pants and dress shoes to enter.

Other Miscellaneous Items to Pack for Your Kona Itinerary

• Polarized sunglasses (better for blocking out the harsh UV rays)
• Beach bag and/or backpack: make sure it’s large enough to fit a beach towel or two!
• Hat/s: The sun is strong here! I love taking a wide-brimmed sun hat for the beach and a fun trucker hat when hiking.
• Rash guard: Keeps you protected from the sun and adds warmth for night snorkeling with manta rays (although your tour will likely provide you with one).
• If your Kona itinerary includes a bunch of snorkeling around the island (like at Two Step), you’ll probably save some cash by bringing your own mask and snorkel.
• A waterproof kindle or other e-reader for reading at the beach (I’d be worried a physical book may accidentally get wet!)
• Your hotel may give you towels, but we love traveling with a sand-free beach mat
• Reusable water bottle: better for the environment and a must for hiking!
• Reef Safe sunscreen (always use when in the water, as other sunscreen is harmful to marine life): We love ThinkSport (make sure the bottles are less than 3.4 ounces if you’re bringing them in your carryon)! Don’t forget about SPF lip balm as well!
• Aloe Vera Gel: always have some handy in case you get a sunburn; aloe will give the burn some much-needed relief
• Dramamine: This will help with motion sickness if you’re planning to do a snorkeling or boat tour (the waves can get rough!).
• Underwater camera: All my underwater photography tips and gear here. I’d check out an underwater phone case, too.
• Portable battery charger: Charge your phone on the go and never run out of a charge
• Noise-cancelling headphones: Great for both the plane and the beach! I’m obsessed with my AirPods and Noah loves his Bose Quiet Comforts.
• Tote bag: Plastic bags are banned in Hawaii, so bring your own for shopping! I love this collapsible reusable tote bag (hardly takes up any room in your suitcase).

Additional Kona Itinerary Facts

Language

Hawaii’s official languages are English and Hawaiian, though you’ll mostly hear English spoken throughout Kona. You’ll also notice Hawaiian words and phrases used regularly – like “aloha” (hello/goodbye/love), “mahalo” (thank you), and “ohana” (family). 

Street names, towns, and attractions often have Hawaiian names, so it’s helpful to get familiar with the pronunciation (Kailua-Kona, Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau, Mauna Kea – lots of vowels, I know!).

Culture of Kona 

Kona has a more rugged, down-to-earth vibe compared to the polished resorts of Maui or the urban energy of Honolulu. It feels lived-in – where everyday island life blends with tourism. You’ll see pickup trucks parked outside local poke spots, small mom-and-pop shops alongside beachfront bars, and a mix of both visitors and locals enjoying the coastline. 

While there’s luxury resorts north of town, much of Kona feels refreshingly unpolished, with a strong connection to its Hawaiian roots. It’s a place where culture, history, and real life coexist, making it feel more authentic than overly touristy.

I do want to touch upon the fact that we saw plenty of unhoused individuals in town. Like any big city, Kona has its fair share of issues. Life in Hawaii gets ridiculously over-romanticized, but in reality it’s quite difficult to survive. I’ve heard that other states send homeless people to Hawaii to get them off their soil, but I’m not sure how true this is. 

What to Eat in Kona (Must-Try Hawaiian Foods!)

Hawaii’s food scene is next-level, and Kona is no exception. Some must-eats while you’re here:

• Fresh Poke: Ultra-fresh, marinated raw fish, typically served over rice. Try it at Da Poke Shack (our favorite poke by far) or Umekes.
• Loco Moco: A hearty plate of rice topped with a hamburger patty, fried egg, and rich brown gravy. Classic Hawaiian comfort food!
• Kona Coffee: Some of the best coffee in the world is grown right here. Visit a coffee farm and go on a tour or grab a cup at Kona Coffee & Tea.
• Shave Ice: Not just any shaved ice – Hawaiian shave ice is ultra-fine, melt-in-your-mouth goodness. Try it with tropical flavors like lilikoi (passionfruit) and li hing mui (salty dried plum).
• Huli Huli Chicken: Juicy, smoky, and packed with flavor! This Hawaiian-style BBQ chicken is a must. Try it at a roadside stand for the real deal.
• Macadamia Nut Everything: From pancakes to cookies to chocolate-covered mac nuts, you’ll find these everywhere (and they make great souvenirs!).

Brief History of Kona 

Kona’s history runs deep, from ancient Hawaiian settlements to its role in the arrival of Western explorers. This sunny stretch of coastline was once home to Hawaiian royalty, including King Kamehameha I, who spent his later years in Kailua-Kona. The area was also where the first Christian missionaries arrived in the 19th century, forever shaping the cultural landscape. 

Today, remnants of Kona’s past can still be seen in sacred sites, historic heiau (Hawaiian temples), and the influence of coffee farming – an industry that dates back to the early 1800s when Kona’s volcanic soil proved perfect for growing some of the world’s best beans. 

Other Kona Travel Tips

• Sun Protection is a MUST: Kona gets a lot of sun, so pack reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
• Renting a Car is Best: Public transportation is limited, and many of the best spots (like Kua Bay and coffee farms) require a drive.
• Island Time is Real: Life moves a little slower here, so relax, enjoy, and don’t expect everything to be rushed or overly punctual.
• Respect the ‘Āina (Land): Hawaii is stunning, and locals take great pride in preserving its beauty. Be mindful of cultural sites, don’t touch sea turtles or coral reefs, and leave no trace when exploring.
• Tipping is Expected: Just like on the mainland, tipping is customary in restaurants, for tours, and even at coffee shops.

Local Etiquette & Sustainability in Kona

Respect for the land (‘āina) and local culture is a big deal in Hawaii, and Kona is no exception. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Aloha Spirit: Hawaiians are known for their warmth and hospitality, but respect goes both ways. A simple aloha (hello/goodbye) or mahalo (thank you) goes a long way!
• Respect Sacred Sites: Places like Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau and historic heiau (temples) are deeply significant. Don’t climb on ruins, take rocks or sand, or leave trash behind.
• Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Hawaii has banned sunscreens with harmful chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate to protect its coral reefs. Stick to mineral-based sunscreens.
• Wildlife Etiquette: It’s tempting to get close to sea turtles and manta rays, but Hawaiian law requires you to keep your distance – at least 10 feet from turtles and 50 yards from dolphins. Look, don’t touch!
• Reduce Plastic Use: Bring a reusable water bottle and shopping bag, as Hawaii has strict plastic regulations.
• Support Local: From Kona coffee farms to family-owned eateries, spending your dollars at locally run businesses helps keep the community thriving. Skip the L&L Hawaiian BBQ…

A little mindfulness goes a long way in preserving the beauty and culture of Kona for generations to come!

Now that you’re armed with these extra travel tips, let’s dive into the ultimate 3 days in Kona itinerary!

3 Day Kona Itinerary 

Day 1: Downtown Kona and Nearby

Kick off your Kona adventure with a full day in town – good food, beach time, and a once-in-a-lifetime experience snorkeling with manta rays at night.

Stop 1: Coffee and Breakfast

Start the day Hawaiian-style – with coffee and malasadas (Portuguese donuts)! And nope, calories don’t count on vacation! 

There’s a few spots nearby, but we LOVED Paradise Bakery Hawaii. Just make sure to come early because there’s usually a line out the door and they do sell out, sometimes quite early! There’s lots of filled malasadas to choose from, including guava, ube, chocolate, lilikoi, and strawberry. The perfect pillowy texture!

If you’re still hungry (second breakfast anyone?!), grab an acai bowl at Basik Acai (seriously, so good and light and refreshing). 

And don’t miss some Kona coffee! Head to HiCO – Hawaiian Coffee for a cup of smooth, rich Kona coffee or stop by Ka’u Coffee Mill Café to try another variety of Hawaii’s world-famous brews.

Stop 2: Downtown Kona

Once you’re fueled up, take a leisurely stroll through downtown Kona. Browse the Kona Farmers Market, visit the historic Hulihe’e Palace, and stop by Kailua Pier for some classic waterfront views. 

Right next to the pier, you’ll find Kamakahonu Beach – a tiny but scenic stretch of sand perfect for a quick dip. 

Before leaving downtown, don’t forget to grab a shave ice from Gecko Girlz or Scandinavian Shave Ice – because let’s be real, you can’t come to Hawaii and not indulge in some shave ice! We love getting some condensed milk on top for extra creaminess!

Stop 3: Fresh Poke for Lunch

Once you get hungry, head on over to Da Poke Shack – this was some of the best poke we’ve ever had in Hawaii, and we’ve eaten a lot of poke across the islands. Fresh, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned. If poke isn’t your thing (first of all, why?!), Shaka Tacoz is a great alternative, serving up tacos with an island twist.

Stop 4: Magic Sands Beach Park

Finally some lazy beach time! I recommend heading to Magic Sands Beach Park, which we LOVED so much we actually went twice during our 3 days in Kona. It’s got soft white sand, bright blue water, and waves that are so fun (always be careful in the ocean, waves can sneak up on you).

The beach is perfect for sunbathing (and people watching) too. I could’ve stayed in the water for HOURS (basking in the Hawaiian sun is my fave thing ever), but lunch was calling!

Stop 5: Dinner at Aloha Vibes

After a day in the sun, wind down with dinner at Aloha Vibes, a spot we fell in love with for its live music and absolutely delicious coconut shrimp dish. I was too eager to eat my food that I didn’t even take a picture (which is SUPER unlike me, haha).

And the best part? Oneo Bay is right nearby, making it the perfect place to catch a killer sunset!

Stop 6: Snorkeling with Manta Rays

But the night isn’t over yet – because it’s time for one of the coolest, most surreal experiences on this Kona itinerary: snorkeling with manta rays in the dark! This is probably the most popular excursion on the Big Island, so promise me you won’t miss it and make sure to book in advance, especially during peak season!

There’s plenty of manta ray snorkeling tours, but I highly recommend THIS ONE. It’s the exact one we booked, and I felt super safe with them during the entire experience (plus they gave out tons of snacks, haha). Just make sure to book the snorkeling add-on so you can actually get in the water with them of course.

Even if you’re not a strong swimmer, don’t worry. You literally hold onto the side of a makeshift raft and dangle your legs over a pool noodle! Hard to explain, but you’ll see what I mean. 

We got insanely lucky on our tour and saw over two dozen manta rays (apparently, the normal is just a handful?!). At first, it was kinda nerve-wracking since they got super close (they even touched us on occasion!), but after the initial adrenaline rush, it was pure magic watching these massive creatures glide effortlessly through the water. My videos are absolutely INSANE – they really put on a show for us!

Heads up: It gets pretty chilly out there since it’s pitch black and there’s no sun, but our tour provider provided a wetsuit top (not sure what it’s actually called, but it helped!) to keep warm. Totally worth it for an experience this exhilarating!

Day 2: North of Kona – Stunning Beaches, Turtles, & Sunset Drinks

Day 2 is all about exploring the breathtaking beaches north of Kona, indulging in fresh island flavors, and soaking in one seriously memorable sunset. It’s probably my favorite day on this Kona itinerary!

Stop 1: Breakfast in Downtown Koan

Kick off the day with a hearty breakfast at Fish Hopper Kona (oceanfront views + incredible omelets) or 808 Grindz Café (super affordable, and their macadamia nut pancakes are chef’s kiss).

Stop 2: Beach Hopping

Once you’re all fueled up (and slathered on the sunscreen), it’s time to hit the beaches! And trust me, these are some of the best on the island:

• Kua Bay (Manini‘owali Beach): One of our favorite beaches in all of Hawaii! And that’s saying a lot since we’ve been to dozens! There’s nothing better than soft white sand and crystal-clear water! While parking can be a little tricky (the lot is teeny tiny so practically everyone parks on the street), it’s absolutely worth it. Since we found a spot about a 10 minute walk away, we had to lug our stuff (beach chairs and such), so be mindful of what you’re bringing and don’t forget anything in your car!

• Makalawena Beach: If you’re up for a little adventure, this one’s for you. Getting here requires a hike through a lava field (yes, a lava field!), but the reward? A remote, stunning beach with powdery white sand and way fewer crowds. Pack plenty of water and good shoes for the walk!

Stop 3: Lunch at Lava Lava Beach Club

For lunch, grab a table at Lava Lava Beach Club – this place is right on the sand, with a laid-back island vibe and killer mai tais. Try the coconut shrimp or the fresh catch of the day! After eating, take a leisurely walk down ‘Anaeho‘omalu Beach, which is just steps away.

Stop 4: Shopping and Shave Ice

Next, take a break from the sun (your skin will thank you) and stroll through the Kings’ Shops at Waikoloa Village. It’s a small but cute shopping area, perfect for picking up souvenirs, checking out local boutiques, or just wandering around for a bit. It’s way more upscale than downtown Kona, and feels a world away. 

And, of course, no Hawaiian afternoon is complete without shave ice! Stop by Original Big Island Shave Ice Co. for a sweet and refreshing treat. The line will probably be out the door, but there’s nothing better than some shave ice on a hot day. 

Stop 5: Turtles and Volcanic Lava 

For the best way to wrap up the day, head to Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park, just north of the airport. We absolutely loved this spot – it’s not only a beautiful coastal area with ancient Hawaiian fishponds and petroglyphs and mile-high palm trees, but there’s SEA TURTLES! And oh so many of them! Please view them from a distance and NEVER feed, chase, or even think about touching them.

Psst – enter and park via the marina side if you don’t wanna walk a mile to the ocean. Google Maps takes you to the actual entrance of the park, which is quite far from the beach. There is the Petroglyph Boardwalk Trail if it’s not too hot and you wanna get some steps though! Follow directions to aptly named “Sea Turtle Beach” and you’ll only have a 5 minute walk to the shore.

Stop 6: Sunset Drinks and Dinner at a Luxe Resort

As the sun starts to set, treat yourself to a fancy dinner and some drinks at the Fairmont Orchid (one of the most beautiful resorts on the island). For an extra-special splurge, book a table at Brown’s Beach House or CanoeHouse – both are upscale, oceanfront, and absolutely worth it if you’re looking for a memorable dining experience. A cocktail at sunset with waves crashing in the background? Yes, please.

Day 3: South of Kona – History, Snorkeling, & Coffee Farms

The final day on this Kona itinerary takes you south to Captain Cook, where you’ll find ancient Hawaiian history, some of the best snorkeling on the island, and world-famous Kona coffee farms.

Stop 1: Hawaiian History at Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau

Start the day at Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park, a sacred site that once served as a place of refuge for ancient Hawaiians. It’s a beautiful, peaceful spot with reconstructed temples, wooden carvings, and lava rock pathways. Spend some time wandering through the park and learning about Hawaiian history before heading to your next stop – one of the best snorkeling spots on the island.

Stop 2: Snorkeling at Two Step or Catamaran Cruise

No Kona itinerary is complete without some snorkeling! Right next door, you’ll find Two Step Beach, famous for its crystal-clear water and thriving coral reefs. We made the rookie mistake of assuming we could rent snorkel gear nearby – nope! Bring your own gear because there’s nowhere close to rent or buy it. Once you’re in the water, though, you’ll be surrounded by colorful fish, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot some dolphins or sea turtles!

Not sure how to snorkel? I recommend taking a snorkeling cruise instead. The staff will walk you through everything step-by-step and make sure you feel comfortable in the water. Of course with scenic views of the Kona coast and tropical fruit included! This guided catamaran snorkeling tour goes from Keauhou Bay to Captain Cook’s Monument, with multiple snorkel spots included. You may even spot whales and/or dolphins if you’re lucky (my favorite!).

OR take an underwater submarine adventure if you don’t wanna get wet or feel nervous snorkeling. When was the last time you’ve been in a submarine?!

Stop 3: Local Lunch at Kaaloa’s Super J’s

After all that swimming, you’ll be starving, and Ka’aloa’s Super J’s is the perfect place to refuel. It’s a no-frills, straightforward family-run spot known for their authentic Hawaiian plate lunches. Their laulau (pork wrapped in taro leaves) is legendary (probably the best on the island), and you’ll be eating alongside locals, which is always a good sign.

We shared a few things and LOVED IT! Plus, the lady serving us was so helpful since we had no idea what to get. Don’t miss the sweet potato haupia pie if they’ve got it!

Stop 4: Coffee Farm Tour

Next, you can’t come to Kona and not visit a coffee farm – this is where some of the best coffee in the world is grown! I’m sure you’ve heard of Kona coffee! There’s plenty of farms to choose from, but Hala Tree Coffee and Heavenly Hawaiian Kona Coffee Farm Tours both offer great tastings and gorgeous views. Learn about the growing and roasting process, sip on some fresh brews, and maybe even bring a bag (or three) home.

We decided to make a quick stop at Hala Tree Coffee, and loved that they gave out as many free samples as we wanted!

Stop 5: Extras

If you’re up for a little extra relaxation, consider booking some time at Mamalahoa Hot Tubs, a hidden gem where you can soak in warm, private outdoor tubs surrounded by lush greenery.

On your way back toward Kona, take a quick peek at Keauhou Bay, a calm and scenic bay with cultural significance – it’s where King Kamehameha III was born!

And if you’re like me and just can’t get enough of Magic Sands Beach, this is the perfect time to go back. We loved it so much we went twice during our 3 days in Kona – the soft sand, crashing waves, and golden sunset just hit differently. And more sea turtles! Plus, it’s super close to downtown Kona, making it the perfect last stop before your Hawaiian luau!

Stop 6: Traditional Hawaiian Luau Dinner

Finally, if you’ve never been to a Hawaiian luau before, add one to your Kona itinerary! It’s the perfect place to experience one – and trust me, it’s so much more than just dinner and a show. Think: traditional Hawaiian music, colorful hula dancing, and a jaw-dropping Samoan fire knife performance, all under the stars right on the shores of Kailua Bay. The energy is electric, the setting is magical, and the Mai Tais? Let’s just say you won’t be going thirsty. 

The all-you-can-eat buffet is packed with local favorites – everything from kalua-style pork and freshly caught fish to coconut rolls, teriyaki beef, and even Waipio Valley poi. Don’t skip the sweet potato-mac salad or the haupia pudding for dessert. It’s a full-on feast of island flavors, and the whole night feels like one big celebration of Polynesian culture. If you’re in Kona for a few nights, definitely carve out an evening for this – it’s one of those unforgettable “only in Hawaii” experiences. Book your Hawaiian luau here (and yes, they do get booked up!).

So there ya have it – my perfect 3 days in Kona itinerary! Are you headed to the islands soon?!

The post The Best Kona Itinerary: 3 Days in Kona, Hawaii appeared first on A Passion and A Passport.

Every year (since 2013!) I’ve been writing Year in Review recaps that take a look at my life over the last 12 months. These are some of my favorite posts to write, as I really get to look back at the last year and relive some of my best memories. Check out my past year in reviews here if you’re interested! 

And this year was an extraordinary one for sure – it somehow ended up being my most traveled year yet! By July, I had already been to 5 continents (wild considering I have a full-time job), and the traveling didn’t stop there! I aimed to skip visiting Mexico for a full year with hopes it’d motivate me to see other spots, and I think that definitely helped (although I dearly love the country and already have a trip booked there in early 2025, haha).

In 2024 I went skiing for the first time (so fun!), crossed off a new wonder of the world (Machu Picchu!), marveled at the Sydney Opera House and teared up at koalas in the wild in AUSTRALIA (!!!), ate tons of hot honey hotteok, kimbap, and black sesame ice cream in Asia, and spent over a month in Europe. 

2024 was also the year I became the world’s newest Swiftie (and even tried to score a last minute ticket to her show in Dublin, but of course it was the hardest European destination to get because of the restrictive laws in Ireland!). 

There were also some wonderful moments closer to home too. And one of the best ones? My sister had a beautiful baby girl (meaning I’m an auntie again!) and I swear she’s the cutest little thing. I got to meet her in October and I’m in love!

I also went to my first-ever travel blogging conference and had my first-ever $20k+ month from my blog (a huge milestone for me!).

It was also a big year for astronomy, with a full solar eclipse, Comet A3, AND the northern lights shining bright on SO much of America (twice – which I missed both times, just my luck). 

A big realization I had this year is that I’m either away adventuring hard, or hanging at home doing a puzzle, reading, or scrapbooking – there’s no in between for me. I’m starting to enjoy being more of a homebody in California (and starting to find my community here), and that just tells me one thing – my body craves rest when I’m not traveling. Something I’m aiming to prioritize more in the new year (although I keep saying that and it never happens, haha).

2024 by the Numbers

• Countries Traveled To: 12 – Belgium, England (x2), USA, Australia, South Korea, Italy, San Marino, Ireland, Peru, Japan, France, Switzerland 
• States Traveled To: 5 – California, Wyoming, Utah, New York (x2), Hawaii (x2) 
• # of flights: 35
• Miles flown: 95k
• Books read: 72
• Candy Crush Level: 3954
• Duolingo Streak: 933
• Days traveling: 144 (39% of the year, which is pretty wild considering I work full time!)
• Solo travel days: 17 (in mostly Italy, San Marino, and Ireland)

Something I do wanna mention is that this post is coming out a few weeks later than my year-end recaps usually do. To be completely honest, blogging has sort of lost its excitement and sparkle. It just doesn’t feel as fun as it used to. Plus, I’m super overwhelmed with all the trips and destinations I have yet to write about. A good problem to have (I guess), but when the backlog is well over 50 posts long and 15 destinations deep, well, it feels like you’ll never catch up. We’ll see how much I write in 2025, but I’m not pressuring myself. 

Enough about that, let’s get to it! Here’s my 2024 year in review!

January

Bruges, Belgium

We started off the year exploring a new country together – Belgium! I have to admit I knew literally nothing about Bruges (or Belgium in general) before booking our train tickets, but boy am I glad we made the effort to get over here.

The main reason we went? To soak up all the Christmas spirit in Bruges (and lucky us, they continue celebrating well into the new year!). I swear, the literal moment we arrived, I fell in love with the city, yes, even despite the initial heavy rain!

We spent a few days indulging in *all* the chocolate, *all* the waffles, some extremely decadent hot chocolate (mine tasted exactly like speculoos and it was glorious), and of course ate way too many fries (when in Belgium, am I right?).

So much of our time in Bruges was spent just wandering the cute storybook town, strolling along the canals (kinda a mix of Amsterdam and Venice!), checking out the quirky frietmuseum (and learned even more about potatoes!), popping into chocolate shops every 2 minutes, taking photos in front of the old guild houses in Market Square, and taste testing everything at the market.

There’s just something so magical and charming about Bruges, especially during Christmas. It seemed like every single shop, pharmacy, and building put up decorations – everyone was super into the Christmas spirit, creating so much positive and happy energy. 

Despite our original flight to London getting canceled and sitting behind a lady who literally coughed the entire 10-hour flight home (and refused to wear a mask… cue the eye rolls), we had *such* a good trip. Europe in the winter is it – especially around the holidays. 

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

If you’ve been following me for a while now, you know I plan birthday trips for myself every year. It’s a goal I’ve been keeping up with for quite a few years (I’ve spent past birthdays in Mexico City, Todos Santos, San Luis Obispo, Oahu, etc). 

Since I’m currently on my way to visiting all 50 states, I decided a snowy long weekend in Jackson, Wyoming would be it for my 37th!

And what a great idea that was! The trip started off great with free mimosas at the airport and then six moose sightings within 5 minutes of leaving the airport! Despite the Tetons hiding for most of our trip, the landscapes were still incredible.

Over the long weekend we met the cutest misfit doggies while dog sledding, took the tram up 10k feet to get waffles and hot cocoa at Corbet’s Cabin, watched the skiers sitting by the fire with some hot apple cider, spent an epic morning snowmobiling to hot springs (by far one of the coolest things we’ve done!), tried so many great restaurants, and searched for wildlife in Grand Teton National Park (watched a bunch of moose graze in the snow, bighorn sheep on the mountain tops, the cutest fluffy red fox, mule deer, and more). 

We also explored the tiny town filled with an eclectic mix of cowboy shops and ski shops, and even got to see the very beginning of an actual dog sled race that only happens once a year! 

To say we loved our hotel is a massive understatement (it was definitely a splurge for my birthday)! Hot cocoa bar and cookies every afternoon, great service, and the perfect location right in the middle of town. 

I also got to see a childhood friend I hadn’t spent time with in forever which was extra special (hi Li!)! We loved reminiscing – hope we can plan another reunion soon!

And I finally got to fly over the Golden Gate Bridge (with no fog!) – weird that it took this long, haha. 

And when I wasn’t traveling? I was listening to audiobooks, doing 1,000 piece puzzles, relaxing on the couch with Kona, and planning lots of future travels. Honestly, it felt really good to kinda hibernate, especially with all the rain we had.

February

The beginning of the month was dedicated to rest, and boy it felt amazing to sleep in, stay in PJs all day, and just RELAX – I think I’m finally understanding all the hype about hygge, haha.

Australia

But I couldn’t sit still for too long, because in the middle of the month I was off to Australia for almost 2 weeks (an absolute dream of mine for far too long). I was originally gonna travel solo, but ended up having Kristen join me (same gal I went to Guatemala with last February!)

And about an hour before boarding, my sister told me she’s PREGNANT! Such a shock and happy surprise! I’m gonna be such a cool aunt!

I got so lucky with an empty seat next to me for the (very long) 15 hour flight, and slept for 11 hours – practically unheard of for me. And zero jet lag; what a dream! Was somehow so much easier than going to Europe.

Sydney

First stop of the trip – spectacular Sydney! We hit the ground running at 6am right after landing – super impressed we made it to 9pm! We spent a full day wandering around the CBD finding all the best views of the Sydney Opera House, walked across the Harbor Bridge, wandered Circular Quay, had cocktails at one of the top 50 bars in the world (Maybe Sammy – so fun!), watched fireworks at Darling Harbour, perused all the little stalls at the Rocks Market, hung around the Royal Botanic Gardens, sipped drinks at the iconic Opera Bar, and watched the most beautiful sunset at Ms Macquaries Chair.

And oh, all the rumors are true – Aussies are oh so friendly!

Taking a day trip to the Australian Reptile Park to feed kangaroos and cuddle some koalas was a major highlight – such a dream (where we met the cutest baby Koala named Pete). Plus a true Aussie BBQ (including shrimp on the barbie) and a (very unsuccessful) attempt at boomerang throwing. 

Another morning we ferried over to Manly for beach boutiques, more acai, street art, and lots of sandy beach time. Safe to say I fell hard for this little town!

And then we spent a few nights over by Bondi Beach (loved it is an understatement), admired the Bondi Icebergs about a dozen times (it was a 10 min walk from our hotel), spent so much time just laying on the beach watching the surfers, browsed all the cool surf boutiques, ate so many açaí bowls and avocado toasts (I swear they taste better in Australia), and watched an epic sunset chatting with some locals.

Of course we did the stunning (yet disgustingly sticky) Bondi to Coogee walk in about 90 degree weather, and now understand why ppl rave about Sydney’s beaches so much!

Unfortunately we had to cancel our day trip to the Blue Mountains because of a freak thunder and lightning storm – it was downpouring for hours, but I thankfully still made it on my tour of the Opera House! And then of course we feasted on dumplings and buns while watching love is blind in bed (which became our thing in Australia).

Melbourne

Next up was Melbourne, such an eclectic and colorful city, with such good food and even better coffee. And so much greenery!

I took way too many photos at the Brighton Beach bathing boxes, went searching for seashells, did a hot and sticky walk over to St. Kilda (but the views were OMG), and saw the iconic Luna Park entrance.

And of course thoroughly explored the CBD – we photographed a whole slew of Melbourne’s famous laneways (covered in funky street art), tried a bunch of gelato spots, wandered through some actually cool (and free!) modern museums, tried Melbourne’s famous croissant at Lune, admired the leafy gardens, walked along the Yarra River a bit, headed up the dome at The State Library of Victoria, and browsed the airy Queen Victoria Market. Spending an afternoon in Fitzroy popping into thrift stores, boutiques, and people watching was another highlight, too!

One of my favorites? Road tripping the Great Ocean Road, stopping at all the famous viewpoints (those 12 apostles reminded me so much of the Algarve in Portugal!), having some delicious fish n chips, and hiking down to a waterfall in the rainforest. Such a fun time with fun people – our guide was seriously the cutest and we saw kangaroos hanging out on a golf course (which is apparently so normal here!)

We spotted koalas in the wild (!!!) on a day trip to French Island, then spent the rest of the night watching the most adorable tiny penguins waddle their way out of the ocean on Phillip Island during the nightly Penguin Parade (plus saw dozens of wallabies – plus a baby wallaby in a pouch too!) So much wildlife I could not believe it.

Our day on the Mornington Peninsula was filled with epic views, colorful bathing boxes, and a relaxing boat ride around Sorrento. Think I’ll be back to Australia sooner than later, and still can’t believe I made it down under in 2024!

March

Another low-key start to the month. Guess you can say I’m really loving spending time at home with Kona, lol. I was in a slow season of life (hanging at home on the weekends in my PJs) and that’s ok!

The rain finally ended, and we got some lovely early spring weather – plus the cherry blossoms in our neighborhood started to bloom and we had tons of hummingbirds on our balcony (which I always love)!

I fell hard for Australia in February, and spent loads of time writing blog posts on Melbourne and Sydney, and finally started (and finished) a Bill Bryson novel I bought 10+ years ago!

Unfortunately my Facebook account got disabled, so I spent loads of time trying to sort that out. Eventually I just gave up and was sans Facebook for a long while. Still never recovered that account… and all those photos unfortunately. 

Busan, South Korea 

We ended the month with a spring break/cherry blossom trip to Korea! The first few days were spent in the seaside city of Busan. 

We had our first Korean street foods at BIFF square (where we discovered our love for kimbap and hotteok), rode the colorful IG famous sky capsules, watched a drone show at Gwangalli beach, checked out the colorful Gamcheon Village, wandered around Huinnyeoul Culture Village, had breakfast/snacks at cafes overlooking the sea, saw the skyline lit up at night, got some nature at Taejongdae Resort Park, wandered around the lively Haeundae Beach, and rode the cute locals tram up the mosaic steps. 

Other highlights were catching the most beautiful sunset with the most perfect view of the sky capsules, checking out Yonggungsa Temple, the beautiful temple by the sea (and the only one in all of Korea!), and our authentic seafood BBQ of clams and jumbo prawns. 

We also INCREDIBLY loved how everyone is obsessed with their dog – tons of cute outfits on each and every one (jackets and dresses and little shoes). All so, so cute!

Plus the Cherry Blossom Festival in Jinhae! It was busy, busy, busy (of course!), but well worth the struggle to get photos, haha. We totally lucked out with the most gorgeous sunny day and couldn’t believe how many cherry trees there were! And naturally, ate as many festive foods as we could – so many strawberry things, and my first (of many!) strawberry milks!

April

Seoul, South Korea

After a few days in Busan and Jinhae, we spent almost a week in Seoul, and wow, what a vibrant, busy city it is! Truly a city that never sleeps. Was definitely a nice change of pace from the slower life in Busan.

We really lucked out with both the weather and cherry blossoms! No rain at all and peak bloom our entire trip, which I’m SUPER grateful for after so many missed out on the late blossoms in Japan.

We explored different neighborhoods every day; there’s so much to see and do here it’s insane! Our days were spent exploring the traditional area of Ikseondong with tons of old school architecture, running up and down the escalators at the Coex Mall a few too many times (haha), dancing to Gangnam style in Gangnam, and making perfume and getting (our first-ever) facials in Hongdae.

And OF COURSE we ate all the street food in Myeongdong (egg bread! roasted marshmallows! tteokbokki), customized so much Nike clothing and sneakers!, perfected the Korean Photo Booth, ate at tons of popular cafes (Mil toast! Cheongsudong! Salt bread! Nudake!), got silly caricatures drawn up, sipped tea in a traditional tea house, sent letters to our future selves, had ramen and fried chicken by the Han River under the cherry blossoms, and ate our fair share of KBBQ. Plus midnight fried chicken (in bed!) two nights in a row – totally our style!

One of my favorite experiences?! Renting traditional hanbok for a day and feeling like a Korean princess! We admired the beautiful Gyeongbokgung Palace, watched the changing of the guards, and wandered Bukchon Hanok Village – so many photos!

One night we had fried chicken and cheered on the Twins at a baseball game (Koreans love the sport), and another we took a market food tour of Gwangjang Market – where we tried famous hand cut noodles and met the famous Netflix chef, plus learned a few Korean drinking games (and had our first sochecks)!

Plus, the best welcome home surprise! We walked off the plane and through customs, and our good friend Mel was waiting for us to say hi!!!

Utah for WITS! 

Oh WITS Utah, you were truly something special. I had been toying with the idea of attending WITS for a few years (and even bought tickets the year before but ended up selling them!), so finally attending was super memorable! 

The weekend was spent meeting the most inspiring, authentic, courageous, welcoming, and motivated women. And I’m grateful to call a bunch of them good friends already and even have inside jokes with a bunch (#bus4). It was so easy to create real connections – No competition, just uplifting encouragement and deep conversations. The whole weekend felt so wholesome and nourishing – something I’m looking for more of in 2025.

Some key messages I don’t wanna forget from the creator sessions:

• I am an expert, AND I don’t know a lot. 
• NOT an influencer, a BUSINESS OWNER
• My biggest competitor & hindrance to my success is Myself and my fear
• Think of yourself as an investor in the travel ecosystem 
• “Too many of us are not living our dreams because we are living our fears.”

And of course there was lots of fun, too! The tourism board treated us to a Welcome Party/night at the museum with dirty sodas, spinning photo booths, and dinosaur exhibits all to ourselves. We had a full day out in Park City – where I skied for my first time ever (and actually loved going down the bunny slopes, minus the gear and boot situation, haha), wandered around downtown Park City, and indulged in a Swiss-style dinner party with fondue and fireplaces by the snow. I’ll never forget the wildly unexpected night out line dancing with Marissa and Caroline! 

The perfect ending to the perfect weekend with so many new friends? Creating content at the stunning Bonneville Salt Flats at sunset!

It wasn’t the business sessions, the parties, the outdoor activities, the fireside dining, etc. The strong connections and late night laughs are what really made the weekend so ridiculously special. My heart left so, so full. A true highlight of the entire year (easily). Until WITS 2025 in NYC!

I also got my passport renewed in April and it somehow only took a few days to get (guess that’s why they call it expedited!).

May

May was a low-key month at home besides a few fun weekend trips. I also desperately went looking for the northern lights in my backyard during the crazy geomagnetic storm where the lights were visible in so much of the US! I think I saw the absolute faintest ones – just a pink and purple hue in the sky?! Still not checked off my bucket list though. I also had my first $20k+ month from my blog! So proud of myself!

Universal Studios! 

We spent SUCH a fun weekend in SoCal at Universal Studios Hollywood! It was our first time visiting, and actually our first major amusement park together (which is honestly kinda wild). 

Early access to Super Nintendo World was way worth it – we rode Mario Kart (easily the most sought after ride in the park) twice in less than a half hour! We of course went on every single ride in the park (including the Studio Tour), many multiple times! Our faves were The Mummy, Harry Potter, Jurassic World, Transformers, and the Minions. Thankfully we got so lucky with wait times and don’t think we spent more than 25 minutes waiting for a ride!

Having two days in the park meant we could eat all the treats as well (including multiple frozen butter beers, a giant pink donut from the Simpsons, minion banana pudding, ? Block tiramisu from Toadstool Cafe, and lots more).

The attention to detail in all the themed spaces were super impressive – including the replica dinosaurs (whoa that triceratops and the baby raptor, plus Blue!), all the moving video game components at Super Mario World, Harry Potter World, and Simpsons. WE LOVED IT ALL!

And of course we ended the trip with our favorite ice cream from Handels on the drive back home! All in all, SUCH a fun weekend and don’t think we’ll wait 20+ years until our next major amusement park together!

Santa Barbara 

Later in the month, we popped down to Santa Barbara for a quick weekend at the beach. Although Mother Nature had other plans and there was NO sun and way chillier than we anticipated, so we didn’t relax at the beach like we hoped (which was the complete opposite of our last time here when it was stiflingly hot and unbearably sticky). Definitely wasn’t the SB weekend we had in mind, but ya win some and ya lose some!

Instead we ate at our favorite restaurants (Secret Bao!) and tried some new ones (Bettina! La Super Rica Taquería!), and took long walks in downtown SB and some new-to-us parks overlooking the beach. But the best part was seeing some friends of ours we hadn’t seen since our last visit to SB (hey Lena and Bassam!) at the botanical gardens! Plus their two adorable little kiddos! 

Our few days there finally prompted me to write a weekend guide to Santa Barbara – a few years in the making (go peep the post – photos from past trips are gorgeous)! Too bad we had shitty weather this time!

June

New York

As soon as work finished up for the school year, I was off to New York to visit my sister! AND have her BABY SHOWER, which was absolutely perfect. Including tons of cute details like flavored champagne for giveaways, itty bitty baby clothes as decorations, and tons of fun baby games. It definitely was so wild seeing my sister pregnant!

The rest of the time was spent purely relaxing, hanging out with family (plus time in Port Jeff), lots of sister chats, and going through tons of baby stuff!

Puglia, Italy

A few days after getting home from NY (okay fine, only 2 days – told you summer is always jam packed!), I was off on a FANTASTIC 10 day Puglia road trip down in Southern Italy with Noah. 

We saw plenty (and plenty) of charming Italian towns, historic UNESCO World Heritage sites, and beautiful beaches along the stunning coastline. We gazed at endless olive groves (and of course tried so much olive oil!), wandered hilltop towns, ate gelato every single day, plus TONS of orecchiette pasta, fresh mozzarella cheeses, torrali, and focaccia (easily the best one in Polignano a Mare). 

Every day was spent exploring all the towns by the sea – Polignano a Mare, Otranto (our absolute favorite), Monopoli, and Gallipoli, plus the hilltop towns of Locorotondo, Cisternino, and Alberobello. Heck, we hardly woke up before 8am, and if it weren’t for all the crazy drivers, it would’ve felt like a real vacation, haha.

Some of my favorite experiences were sleeping in an authentic trulli, having a farm to table romantic dinner on a masseria, and the cheese tasting/demonstration on a local farm (where we not only feasted on way too much cheese, but learned and saw exactly how burrata is made).

Before leaving the area, we also spent a few nights in magical Matera – we slept in the most epic cave hotel (with an epic cave spa included), watched sunset over the sassi every night, pet so many cute kitties, and thoroughly explored the sassi (old town) and all the ancient rock churches. When we weren’t dripping with sweat and navigating the sassi maze, we were loving it, haha. 

There were far too many tourists for our liking (especially after coming from southern Puglia), but glad we got to experience the town before it gets even more popular! We also stopped at the famous bridge in the latest James Bond movie (in Gravina in Puglia), indulged in bread made in 750+ year old ovens (in Altamura), and watched the nonnas make the pasta in Bari! 

We were pleasantly surprised by the lack of crowds in early June – the complete opposite of other areas of Italy we’ve been to, like Venice, Cinque Terre, Rome, Florence, and of course the Amalfi Coast. The whole area seems kinda undiscovered, and we mostly encountered Italian tourists (with a handful of Americans thrown in). 

It was hard not to fall hard for Puglia, especially since we stuffed our faces with way too much pasta, had gelato every single day (whoops), took plenty of dips in the sparkling sea, saw half a dozen Italian towns, neither of us got drastically sunburned, and we only got one parking ticket! Come soon – I’d say most of our trip was 85% Italian tourists or so, BUT I see that changing sooner than later. Such a special place

Florence, Italy

Before booking my trip to Italy with Noah, I knew I wanted to stay a bit longer to explore more of the country. And I hadn’t even realized I’d been to Florence before (about 8 years ago for only a day on a group tour). Despite the 90F muggy days, I truly loved this city!

I saw so much impressive art, like Michaelangelos’ David at the Accademia Gallery and The Birth of Venus and Medusa at the Uffizi (I’m not normally an art person but I just had to see these oh-so-famous pieces in person). I climbed up not one, not two, but three towers – the cupola dome (by far the hardest), the clock tower, and Al Forno Tower for direct views of the duomo). And I watched a gorgeous sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo with thousands of my newest friends (the crowds were beyond insane). 

I also took a day trip to the Italian countryside, and loved the small towns in Tuscany (Siena, Colle di Val d’Elsa, and San Gimignano – where I of course had to try what was claimed to be the best gelato in the world). My pasta making and tiramisu cooking class in Florence was a highlight as well, where I finally learned how to make authentic ravioli and tiramisu custard! 

After spending almost a week here I really felt like I got to know the city pretty well!

San Marino

Of course when I learned I could add a new country to my list just a few hours away from Florence, you know I was there! And just like that, San Marino, the oldest surviving republic in the world, established in 301 AD, was my 48th country!

It’s also been a World Heritage Site since 2008, as well as the oldest Republic and fifth smallest country in the world. San Marino is a mountainous microstate completely surrounded by Italy. It’s intense, magical, unique, and authentic, and kinda feels like a way less crowded and way less colorful Sintra, Portugal. 

I spent a very long day trip from Florence to San Marino, taking 2 trains and a bus, which thankfully was way easier than I anticipated. And while there, I climbed up and hiked between the 3 towers, took in plenty and plenty of fantastic mountain views, and had a delicious pizza overlooking the city. So much historic architecture – I absolutely loved the tiny country, especially because it was hardly crowded!

Naples, Italy

After finally getting to Napoli Centrale (my original train from Florence was canceled and I had to stand for three hours on a different one), I got a whole margherita pizza (obvs), explored the city a bit (way more energetic, buzzy, and eclectic than I imagined!), and then went on a food tour in the city center (with more pizza, limoncello, and sfogliatella). What an unapologetically chaotic city!

The rest of my time in Italy was spent on day trips in the area!

On Procida, I had the best time discovering this little gem of an island; it hardly felt touristy at all, especially since I visited on a weekday. I loved the super colorful pastel ports, swimming in the sparkling sea for what felt like hours, indulging in spaghetti al limone (my new fave), and taking a boat around the entire island. Plus the locals were oh so sweet and I was even invited into a traditional fisherman’s home. Easily one of my best days in Italy!

On the other hand, Capri is way overrated in my opinion, and felt ridiculously touristy and crazy overpriced (girls I met paid €8 each for a regular hot tea!). It was also super shitty weather (pouring rain practically the entire day) and was probably the worst tour itinerary I’ve ever booked (took 4 hours to get there when it takes only 50 min via ferry from Naples… someone explain that to me…). I’d consider going back in the future but will definitely be making my own way there (instead of an absurdly overpriced tour).

And finally, the Amalfi Coast! I lucked out with a gorgeous, sunny day (after the horrific rainstorm the day before), visiting the towns of Sorrento, Positano, and Amalfi, plus seeing the coast from the water via boat. Of course I had lemon sorbet in a massive lemon. And yes it was busy (that’s to be expected), but I think I’d go back and spend a few nights!

I also hit a 2 year streak on Duolingo in June! Kinda crazy that I’ve kept up with it for so long!

July

Galway, Ireland

After a few (absolutely amazing) weeks in Italy, I was off to another new country (my 49th!) – Ireland!

But to be honest, I didn’t have the greatest first impression; it was beyond pouring when I arrived (typical Irish weather I guess…) and I didn’t like the area I was staying in (there’s honestly not much to do in Salthill). It was a shock to the system for sure after spending 3 weeks in Italy (with near-perfect weather). 

But fish n chips were had, I saw some of the stunning countryside (so, so lush and a thousand shades of green), and I listened (and sang and danced) to HOURS of live music in fun Irish pubs every night so all in all a pretty fantastic time during my first few nights in Ireland. I also saw the Cliffs of Moher from above (hiking) and below (on a cruise!), and the Aran island of Inishmore. 

Before visiting I didn’t know much about Ireland and Irish culture in general so I definitely learned a lot!

Dublin, Ireland

I don’t drink much, so I found Dublin to be kinda meh to be honest. I just didn’t vibe with it — at all. I spent most of my time wandering around the Temple Bar neighborhood and photographing all the decorated pubs, although not actually drinking anything, hahaha. Plus, I severely overpaid for my hotel which always kinda sucks (mostly because Taylor Swift was in town — and no, I couldn’t get a ticket unfortunately).

I also went on a day trip to the cute little town of Kilkenny (where I had delicious bangers and mash), went on a short hike in the Wicklow Mountains and saw sheep, watched Rob (the dog!) herd some other sheep, and even got to hold a 6 day old baby lamb! The sweetest little thing!

Ireland in general just wasn’t my thing. I learned I can’t love every single place I go, and that’s totally ok. I found the nature in Ireland to be pretty (and very green), but kinda underwhelming. I’m glad I came (to see what all the fuss is about) but won’t be running back. 

Peru!

Lima, Huacachina, Paracas, Arequipa,  Colca Canyon and Chivay, Lake Titicaca, Cusco, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu

Now Peru? That’s a whole different story – I fell completely head over heels in love with the entire country! I loved the culture, the colors, and the cuisine (minus the guinea pig).

You know me by now, and cannot sit still so I try to really take advantage of my summer off from work, so off I was again (less than 2 weeks later) to Peru, my 50th country!!! And what a trip it was! I spent a crazy busy and adventurous 3+ weeks in Peru, and so glad I picked the longer G tour (to help relieve my anxiety about the altitude, which I had no problems with thankfully).

It was my first time doing a tour in practically 10 years, and I got lucky with the best people and the best tour guide. They soon all felt like friends I’ve known for years, and eventually we felt like a little family. Such a heartwarming, fulfilling, and intimate experience. Tons of laughter, inside jokes, and just a general sense of belonging. I’ll cherish these memories with all mis nuevas amigas forever! Llama lovers (and Freddy!), if you’re reading this, just know you’re all the very, very best human beings and our few weeks in Peru together made my heart oh so happy.

I spent a bit of time in Lima, admiring tons of pottery at Museo Larco, wandering Miraflores and saying hola to all the kitties in the park, taking in the impressive architecture in the historic district, and strolling through artsy Barranco (with cute coffee shops and art galleries). 

My few weeks were spent viewing the famous Nazca lines from above in a tiny Cessna plane, sandboarding and riding on a crazy dune buggy in the Huacachina oasis, watching sunset in Paracas, admiring volcanoes in the cute town of Arequipa, hugging tons of llamas and alpacas in Chivay, and gawking at the huge condors at Colca Canyon. 

Spending a night with a local family on Lake Titicaca was by far one of the most memorable experiences in Peru overall. We met the sweetest little girl, Valentina, helped the family with their chores – like herding their sheep (!!!) and separating lima beans, ate home-cooked meals with the family (so many potatoes!), and saw the brightest Milky Way of my life. 

Of course Cusco was a major highlight as well, spending a few days exploring the city, finding the best sunset viewpoints, ATVing to Rainbow Mountain, doing tons of window shopping, and relaxing in the main square. Plus day trips to Sacred Valley (where we met some incredible women weavers) and Ollantaytambo (one of my favorite little Andean towns with spectacular views from the ruins). 

We learned so much about Inca history and tried tons of Peruvian dishes, like ceviche, Lomo Saltado, chicha morada, causa rellena, pisco sours, chaufa, picarones, inca kola, and aji de gallina (but no guinea pig, alpaca, or llama for me!),

And the major cross off my bucket list? Machu Picchu! I got lucky with near perfect weather and a great group to explore with (although that dip in the hot springs the night before was pretty questionable, haha). Machu Picchu was nothing short of magical — what a mesmerizing blend of nature’s raw beauty and ancient human civilization! Wow, just wow! A major highlight of 2024 for sure. 

August

Peruvian Amazon

My last few days in Peru were spent in the Amazon Rainforest, and what an adventure that was (despite being perpetually hot and sticky and humid for the entire 72 hours, with very minimal electricity, haha)!

We spent our days exploring the jungle, looking for monkeys, caimans, macaws, spiders, colorful birds, capybaras, butterflies, tarantulas, leaf-cutting ants, and more. I learned so much about the flora and fauna of the rainforest, and thankfully didn’t see anything too dangerous!

And we spent our nights taking cold showers, being wowed by the night sky (Milky Way and shooting stars!), and sleeping under mosquito nets in our thatched bungalows. Waking up to the sounds of the jungle, including howler monkeys and tons of birds, was definitely part of the experience.

All in all, I was super satisfied with my time in Peru and it’s given me the urge to explore more of South America. Hopefully next summer!

And then work started again… whomp whomp! I got a new car (since my 15 year old car needed a few thousand dollars of work done… so it was time, haha). 

AND my sister gave birth to the most beautiful baby girl, Ella Brooke on August 28! So thrilled for her and her new little family! She really is the cutest newborn!

September 

September marks 10 years living in the Bay Area and doing our cross country road trip from NY to CA. Pretty wild – it definitely feels like we’re locals now, and have visited so many spots in the state! We also found out Noah has to go into work 5 days a week starting Jan 2025. Amazon’s RTO is awful!

Oahu, Hawaii

This was the first trip in a while that wasn’t planned minute by minute (what I’m known for, haha) and it felt amazing to be spontaneous for a few days.

I lived my best life in Oahu for Labor Day weekend (still feel so fortunate we can take long weekend trips to Hawaii!). We both get instantly giddy as soon as we land – must be something about that island air… and this time was no different. 

I totally forgot how breathtaking Waikiki Beach truly is (tourists and all). We swam everyday for hours, watched the Friday night fireworks, gallivanted around Honolulu, and hiked up Diamond Head (also forgot how stunning the views are from up here). 

We spontaneously rented a car one morning, and spent a few hours wading in the softest white sand, ate our way around the north shore, then watched a gorgeous sunset with sweeping views of Waikiki from Tantalus lookout. 

And oh the food! We had tons of old favorites – Mai tais at the Royal Hawaiian, macnut coffee, hula pie, LEONARDS!, acai bowls, shave ice, garlic shrimp, coco puffs, macnut crusted mahi, fresh poke – ya know, all the staples of a great Hawaiian diet, haha. 

I swam SO much, and even went home with wet salty ocean hair (kinda disgusting but oh well, haha). We almost canceled the trip because of 3 impending hurricanes that were possibly on track to hit the islands – thankfully we went because we had practically perfect weather!

Kona, Hawaii

We spontaneously bought tickets to Kona after finding good airfare and missing the ocean too much. Yes, just a few weeks after visiting Oahu, haha. Feel oh so lucky to have Hawaii right there for quick weekend trips!

It was our first time to the Big Island, and I have no idea why it took us this long to visit! I also celebrated hitting my blog income goal for the year ($200k!!!) a few months early!

We watched the sunset every night, loved gazing out into the wild lava landscapes, swam with sea turtles at the beach, and of course played around in the turquoise waters as much as we humanly could! We also indulged in kalua pork nachos, tons of shave ice, and so much fresh poke. 

By far the most epic experience of our trip?! Snorkeling with giant manta rays out in the open ocean one night – we got extremely lucky and saw over 2 dozen (when the average is typically 2-3, or so they say!). And oh the show they put on for us underwater – captivating and mesmerizing and all kinds of wild. Such gorgeous creatures and I can’t believe just how close they got to us – brushed up against my body so many times! Kinda thrilling at first and a little nerve wracking! 

We only explored a small section of the island (we only had 3 days there…), but we’ll be back since Noah’s running the Kona marathon next June!

October 

The month started off with a massive heatwave (almost 100 degrees for a week straight!), and the Yankees making it into the World Series! They lost unfortunately – I forgot how exciting baseball can be!

Kona turned 5 (!!!) later this month, and he got so spoiled at our friends house with 4 daughters to play with, new toys, a huge cookie, and they even sung happy birthday to him 🥹. Such a cute memory I never wanna forget!

I also spent way too many hours watching scrapbooking videos (currently in my scrapbooking era!) and learning all the things (ephemera, rolling adhesive, story kits, die cuts, chipboard, etc). All that seemed incredibly foreign to me at the time!

New York

It was finally time to visit my sister and her beautiful baby girl Ella, the newest addition to the fam! We spent an extra special long weekend in New York visiting, and got to see so many friends and family. 

I had a delicious taco dinner with Tara and spent hours catching up, grabbed breakfast with Alli and Dave and their crazy little kiddos, visited Mary – she’s 102!, saw my cousin Andrea, had a family dinner party with my Aunt Sue, Uncle Fred, Louise, and Henry, and even FaceTimed my parents and Lizzy!

We took Ella to the farm for pumpkins, apple pie, and apple cider donuts, ate all the bagels and Italian food, and got to spend so much uninterrupted time with Ali and Ella which filled my cup so much. Always love hanging with my sister and her little mini me just adds to the fun!

November 

November ended up being a very, very busy month, with a few weekend trips and ending in Japan. Plus, lots of friend dates (some new, some old), including an election watch party and a mini Friendsgiving. Plus I went to Filoli for the holidays for the first time (with Kessler!) and it was just as spectacular as I’d imagined. It was a much more social month for me than normal, and I loved it!

AND Noah’s parents came for a visit so we got to spend some time with them pre- and post- Japan! A little hectic but always good to see family!

The Presidential election got the US into all kinds of frenzy (like always), and I honestly cannot believe how divided our country still is. Plus, I was deep into my scrapbooking era and loving learning all the things and my personal scrapbooking style! So nice to create something that’s purely just a hobby!

Glamping in Sonoma 

After a fun glamping trip in the redwoods last year in 2023, we decided to go for round two! This time? A weekend glamping along the river at Wildhaven Sonoma! We went all out – bringing along supplies for s’mores, a full-on cheese and charcuterie plate, and steak and potatoes for dinner! Plus homemade breakfast burritos for the next morning. And of course Kona came with us too!

I’m proud of how successful we were considering we’re the very opposite of campers, lol. Although I could not believe all the stuff we needed for one night glamping. Took us multiple trips to the car!

It was a super relaxing time; we played board games, listened to music, relaxed in our tent, took lots of walks, sat by the fire, and even photographed the Milky Way!

In the area, we also wandered around Healdsburg (and saw some pretty fall foliage) before checking in, then took a walk along the water in Tiburon and got buns in SF on our way home. 

Monterey for Noah’s half marathon

The next weekend we were off on another nearby weekend trip in California. This time, down to Monterey for Noah to run a half marathon – which was actually his first race since Maui in January 2023! He ran with a friend so definitely no PR here, but his friend was very appreciative, haha. Noah described it as “a light Sunday jog”, lol. 

I’m always amazed by his ability to run long distances, when I have zero interest in even running a 5k.

It was a quick and low-key weekend, but we went to a few of our favorite spots, including a long walk at Lovers Point Park and the Pacific Grove Coastal Walk, sunset at Asilomar State Marine Reserve, and Old Fisherman’s Wharf. I’ll never say no to a weekend down in Monterey!

Japan 

And then we were off to Japan! Ever since we traveled there years ago, we’ve been obsessed with the country. And lucky for us, this was our third trip there (and probably my favorite trip yet). We split our week in Japan between Tokyo and Kyoto (rode the shinkansen of course!), with little side trips to Mt. Fuji and Osaka thrown in.

We got extremely lucky with the fall colors since the peak was 2 weeks earlier than originally expected! And you know we indulged in all our faves – black sesame ice cream, red bean mochi, tonkotsu ramen, pork katsu, fatty tuna and tomago, gyoza, matcha-flavored everything, etc, etc, etc. We go to Japan to eat, and eat we did!

Kyoto

First up, Kyoto – where we hadn’t been since our first trip to Japan back in 2017. We stayed at two beautiful properties, one right in Higashiyama 2 minutes away from the iconic Yasaka Pagoda, and the other right along the lake in Arashiyama. 

We had the most delicious kaiseki dinners (although we figured out the hard way that we absolutely despise tofu skin, haha), went to a bunch of stunning temples (Nanzen-ji Temple, Eikando Zenrin-ji, etc) to see the fall colors, and wow did they deliver, and ate tons of market food at Nishiki Market. 

Other highlights included waking up early to see sunrise at Yasaka Pagoda, wandering along Ninenzaka (where we had Starbucks sitting on tatami mats!) and Sannenzaka streets, admiring the stunning fall views at Kiyomizu-dera Temple, taking a long stroll along the Hozugawa River and the Togetsu-kyo Bridge, climbing up to the Arashiyama Park Observation Deck, strolling along dense bamboo forests, taking a super long walk (stopping at temples and shrines) en route to Abashino Nenbutsuji, and seeing the fall foliage illuminated at night at Hogon-In.

I also made a ring at Glanta, we wore kimonos and participated in a traditional matcha tea ceremony, and shopped at Nike in Gion.

Before leaving Kyoto, we took a day trip to Osaka where we admired Osaka Castle, ate our way through Kuromon Market, took silly pics with the Namba Yasaka Shrine (the one that looks like a dragon), wandered around Denden Town and the eclectic Shinseki (New World), went wild at Don Quijote once it started pouring, and took in the bright lights in Dotonbori. I’d love to spend more time in Osaka on our next trip.

Tokyo

Tokyo was basically spent eating all the sushi and fatty tuna we could get our hands on (including a few conveyor belt sushi spots and a standing sushi bar too – our new fave). It’s hard to have a bad meal in Tokyo. Never enough time in this city – and I already wanna go back!

We spent one day in modern Tokyo – sipping 3d lattes (with Kona’s face on it!), stuffing our faces with gyoza, playing with the cutest shibas and wandering Takeshita Street in Harajuku, seeing the most stunning sunset at Shibuya Sky, and having inventive cocktails at the swanky SG Club. 

Another day we focused on traditional Tokyo – starting the morning with a sushi breakfast at Tsukiji Outer Market, then spending hours testing out pens and stationary in Itoya, having dessert at the LV Cafe, and then finally making our way over to Asakusa and Senso-ji Temple.

On our last morning I ventured over to Gotokuji – the cat temple, and then wandered around Shinjuku. Always so great to go back to some old favorites and of course find some new ones along the way!

Mt. Fuji

I took a solo day trip to Mt. Fuji, and got OH so lucky with the weather – had perfectly clear conditions the entire day, and the mountain was even kinda hard to photograph because of all the sun shining!

I ventured to all the hot spots – I climbed the almost 400 steps to the Chureito Pagoda at Arakurayama Sengen Park for that iconic postcard view, saw all the koi in the clearest blue waters at Oshino Hakkai, stopped by Lawson to take lots of pics, admired the views at Oishi Park along Lake Kawaguchi, and watched all the cars zipping by on the instagram-popular Honcho Street. 

Japan, thank you for being just as fantastic as we remember. 

December

We ended the year the same way it started – at the Christmas markets in Europe! Guess it’s kinda a thing for us now? After last year’s wildly successful winter trip to Europe, we found ourselves back here to explore different markets and even head over to snowy Switzerland for a few days (which we had to sadly cancel numerous times because of 2020 events). 

It was super bitter cold for most of our trip – I don’t remember Europe being this chilly last year! We definitely had to bundle up and brave the cold.

One thing I wanna note is that I deleted IG a few days before our trip, and it made a world of a difference. My husband and I had SUCH an amazing time together, mostly free from distractions and spent tons of actual quality time together. Think I’ll be deleting social media for future trips. 

London

We had originally planned to start the trip in Paris, but after loving London at Xmas last year (so much), we decided to head back!

We saw a bunch of our faves from last year (Leicester Market, Annabel’s, dinner at Dishoom, Cartier and Dior, Neil Strain, Covent Garden, KOYN, and the angels on Regent Street, of course!), and went to plenty more new-to-us London Xmas spots. Including breakfast in an igloo at Coppa Club, lunch at Daphnes, afternoon tea at The Dalloway, Big Ben, plenty of gorgeous hotel lobbies (all decked out for Xmas of course), and an overwhelmingly busy night out at winter wonderland in Hyde Park! 

Plus the most decadent chocolate cake at EL&N (Noah was obsessed!). London was such a great way to kick off our festive holiday trip, with so many sugar biscuits, baubles, and Christmas treats.

Paris

Up next – a quick hop over to Paris where we spent Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, before making our way to Strasbourg. We had a lovely lunch at Le Train Bleu, checked out all the decorations at the major shops (although they were mostly the same as the ones in London), saw the impressive avant-garde tree at Galleries de Lafayette, and admired all the Christmas windows. 

We also saw the newly-completed Notre Dame and checked out the mini Xmas market nearby, had our first Parisian croissants and pastries of the trip (mmm I love me some pain de suisse), and got so lucky with a spontaneous yet super delicious Christmas Eve dinner!

We actually came back to Paris after Switzerland (a few weeks later), so that’ll have to wait for my 2025 year in review!

Alsace: Strasbourg, Colmar, and Obernai

After Paris, we spent a few days in the Alsace region of France to celebrate all things Christmas! And whoa – they’re definitely a few of the most festive spots we’ve ever been! 

Think over the top lights on practically every single street, huge Christmas trees filled with giant baubles, and the instagram-famous teddy bear Christmas building in Strasbourg. Makes sense since Strasbourg is the Capital of Christmas “Capitale de Noel” after all! So, so, so insanely festive, both day and night. The energy was like nowhere else I’ve ever seen.

We ate so much local market food (a mix of French, German, and Alsatian foods) – cheesy bretzels, plenty of crepes, kugelhopf, spaetzle, boules mousse (my FAVORITE), potatoes and Muenster cheese, tarte flambees, gingerbread cookies, manele (brioche buns shaped into little men!), and chocolate covered raspberries (that took forever to find, haha). 

Our few days were spent wandering through all the markets (there’s over a dozen throughout Strasbourg and Colmar with literally hundreds of chalets!), admiring the beautifully decorated carousels, and drinking so much jus de pommes chaud (hot apple cider). And of course seeing the largest decorated Christmas tree in Europe, gawking at the stately Notre Dame De Strasbourg, and loving the colorful, half-timbered buildings in Colmar (said to be the inspiration for Beauty and the Beast)!

Switzerland

Winter in Switzerland was all that I envisioned it to be, and I still cannot believe just how lucky we got with the weather (it’s always a toss up in the mountains this time of year). 

Over the course of our 3 days in the mountains (which spilled over until New Year’s Day), we practically ventured everywhere on the map! Taking trains, cable cars, gondolas, and buses – impressive how it all just works so seamlessly (the Swiss have really got it all figured out!). The peaks were absolutely spectacular, and we got insanely lucky with 3 perfectly clear days. 

And whoa; the views were even more impressive than the wintery hike we did in Hallstatt last year (which was hard to beat). Including Jungfrau, Eiger, Munch, and a whole slew of other peaks I definitely don’t remember the name of, haha. 

We feasted on delicious mountain-side schnitzels, lots of Swiss chocolate, plenty of cheese fondues, and rostis (our new fave thing).

Day 1 was spent seeing our first mountain views at the cute little town of Wengen, traipsing through the snow during the Royal Walk at Mannlichen, and checking out the cute ski shops, gawking at the wooden chalets, and having hot cocoa with rum in Grindelwald!

On Day 2 we walked over the thrilling First Cliff Walk and saw breathtaking views of the north face of the Eiger at Grindelwald First, took the Eiger Express to get even higher (and had a great schnitzel up here!), and made a quick pit stop in Kleine Scheidegg to watch the sunset. 

Psst – we actually spent 4 days in Switzerland, but half was in 2025, so that’ll have to wait until my next year in review! Always so tricky when trips spill into the next year. 

Early to mid December this blog of mine officially got hit by a Google update, which saw my traffic (and therefore income) plummet. I had been already getting a bit bored of blogging (if I’m being completely honest), but it still sucks to get hit so hard! Traffic is slowly coming back and rankings are starting to recover, so we’ll see what 2025 brings in terms of this passion project of mine. 

If you made it this far, thank you!!! Let’s see what 2025 has in store for us all!

The post 2024 Year in Review: My Most Traveled Year Yet appeared first on A Passion and A Passport.

Swimming in crystal-clear waters. Tropical fish as colorful as they get. Rainbow coral along the seafloor. Hawaiian green sea turtles! Chances to spot larger animals like spinner dolphins and octopi and maybe even humpback whales. Those are just a few reasons that make snorkeling in Maui an absolute dream come true.

And I can’t get enough! 

Ever since moving to California, we’ve been to Hawaii more times than we can count. Meaning I’ve gone snorkeling in Maui oh so many times! I’m sharing all my insider tips and tricks to ensure you have the best possible Maui snorkel experience! 

Check out the snorkeling tours I recommend as well — some of Maui’s best snorkeling spots are only accessible via boat!

Without further ado, here are my absolute favorite places to snorkel in Maui, including spots perfect for first-timers as well as sites meant for seasoned underwater explorers.

But before we get into the best places to snorkel in Maui, there’s a lot of other important info I need to share with you first!

Essential Info About Maui Snorkeling 

Best Time to Go Snorkeling in Maui 

The best time of year to go snorkeling in Maui is during the summer months, from May through September. The water will be comfortably warm, the waves are minimal (although always confirm beforehand!), and there’ll be less wind. 

Not visiting in summer? Don’t fret! It’s always a good time to go snorkeling in Maui! We’ve been to Maui in all four seasons, and loved snorkeling each and every time! 

Regardless of when you visit, I always recommend snorkeling in the morning, as the waters are the calmest. And whatever you do, always snorkel in daylight hours – NEVER at dawn, dusk, or at night.

What to Pack for Snorkeling in Maui 

You honestly don’t need much to go snorkeling in Maui (just throw on a bathing suit and mask and snorkel), but come prepared with some extra essentials and you’ll be way more comfortable. 

• Mask and Snorkel: While snorkeling tours in Maui typically provide the necessary equipment, you’re always better off with your own. Planning to do some snorkeling off the shore? You’ll probably save some cash by bringing your own mask and snorkel. 

• Snorkel defog spray: You can always use your own spit to defog your mask (true story — just swish it around and then dunk your mask into the water), but there’s also snorkel spray for that! Tours will have spray for you, but worth it to get your own if you’re snorkeling off shore.  

• Rash guard: Prone to getting sunburned? A rash guard is the way to go! Make sure to buy one that’s UPF 30 or higher. Here’s a great rashguard for women (with a built in bra and bottoms) and one for men as well.

• Non-slip bathing suit: Snorkeling is not the time to wear your itsy-bitsy bikini – you want something that can withstand some waves and hauling yourself back onto a boat (with a ladder of course). Plus, the last thing you wanna worry about while swimming with all the fish is an unfortunate nip-slip! I typically wear a one piece or a top that has more coverage. Save your other bathing suits for the pool!

• Fast dry towel: 100% necessary afterwards! Especially if it’s a bit windy. 

• Underwater camera: All my underwater photography tips and gear here. I’d check out an underwater phone case too if you don’t wanna make an investment in an underwater camera or GoPro. 

• Bonine: If you’re taking a snorkeling tour in Maui and are prone to getting seasick, take some Bonine to combat the nausea on the boat. It doesn’t make you drowsy and it’s recommended to take the night beforehand and the morning of your boat tour.

• Hat/s: The sun is strong here! I recommend bringing along a hat that won’t fly off your head while hanging out on the catamaran. Fun trucker hats are great for that!

• A waterproof kindle or other e-reader for reading on the boat (I’d be worried a physical book may accidentally get wet!)

• Reusable water bottle: better for the environment and a must to stay hydrated. 

• Reef Safe sunscreen (always use when in the water, as other sunscreen is harmful to marine life): We love ThinkSport (make sure the bottles are less than 3.4 ounces if you’re bringing them in your carryon)! Don’t forget about SLP lip balm as well!

• Portable battery charger: Charge your phone on the go (even on the boat!) and never run out of a charge.

• Tote bag: Plastic bags are banned in Maui, so bring your own for everything you’ll need at the beach or your Maui snorkeling tour! I love this collapsible reusable tote bag that hardly takes up any room in your suitcase.

How to Protect Marine Life and Coral 

Snorkeling in the beautiful turquoise waters of Maui comes with a lot of responsibility. Due to Maui’s fragile ecosystem and crazy amounts of over-tourism, we need to be sure we’re doing everything we can to protect the ocean waters and all the marine life found inside. 

PLEASE keep wildlife WILD. NEVER attempt to chase/touch/pet/feed ANY wild animal. This can potentially do harm to these beloved creatures, and possibly cause unnecessary distress. 

A few other important tips:

Wear reef-safe sunscreen: Chemicals in regular sunscreens can wash off our bodies and harm coral (including coral bleaching) and other marine life (like causing tumors on turtles which is oh so sad). 

Because of this, you need to wear reef-safe sunscreen, which is made from minerals (like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) as the active ingredients instead of harmful chemicals. 

Since October 2022, you’re not even allowed to bring non-mineral sunscreens into Maui! If your sunscreen contains the chemicals oxybenzone and/or octinoxate do NOT bring those into Maui or Hawaii in general. They’re known to harm the coral reef and local fish. 

Leave those regular sunscreens at home to use when you’re not swimming in the ocean.

As noted earlier, we love ThinkSport (make sure the bottles are less than 3.4 ounces if you’re bringing them in your carryon)! Don’t forget about SLP lip balm as well!

Never touch any sea life, and never step on any coral: Touching sea turtles (honu) are actually illegal, and can even result in a hefty fine (which I 100% endorse!). 

And steer clear of stepping on coral – they’re fragile, living creatures and stepping on them or even kicking them can damage or kill them.

Leave no trace: This goes without saying, but never leave garbage on the beach, always cut up plastics and rope (which can get tangled up around animals and/or get stuck around the necks of sea turtles), and always keep wrappers secure in your bag so they don’t accidentally end up in the ocean. 

Shy away from plastic straws and other unnecessary plastic when on the island (it’ll most likely end up in the ocean eventually). If you buy a pack of drinks (whether it be POG juice, beers, etc), always make sure to cut up that silly plastic holding all the drinks together. Thank you.

Don’t take anything with you: Leave the shells, rocks, sand, and coral you find behind. I used to take home shells, but now I know better and just take photos of them instead. 

Avoid feeding the fish: Feeding fish (or any other marine animal for that matter) disrupts the delicate balance of the fragile ecosystem and changes the normal behavior of the sea life. Plus, adding food to the water changes the nutrient levels which can then in turn damage the coral reefs by increasing the amount of harmful algae.

I despise when companies do this to attract more fish for their customers — not cool at all. I highly recommend you investigate, do your due diligence, and ask questions before signing up for a snorkel tour.

Best Maui Snorkeling Tours 

While you can totally go snorkeling in Maui right off the coast, in order to swim and snorkel in the clearest waters, you’ll need to get further ashore. This means taking a boat! 

Thankfully, there’s a whole slew of Maui snorkeling tours to choose from. Here’s some recommended favorites:

Turtle Town and Molokini Snorkeling Tour: This is probably the most sought after snorkeling tour in all of Maui. Why? Because it visits two of Maui’s best snorkeling spots on the same day – the underwater paradise of Molokini and the most epic spot for sea turtles, Turtle Town. If you only have time for one snorkel tour in Maui, make it this one. 100%.

Afternoon Snorkel to Coral Gardens: Don’t have all day? Don’t fret! This snorkel tour leaves in the afternoon, meaning you can either wake up late or get in another activity beforehand. It visits either Coral Gardens or Molokini (whichever has better conditions that day), and you get to chillax on a 55-foot catamaran.

Underwater Submarine Adventure: Did someone say SUBMARINE? Yup – you don’t even need to get your hair wet to see all the underwater life. You’ll visit coral reefs, learn about Hawaii’s underwater world from a naturalist, and get up close to a replica shipwreck brimming with marine wildlife while staying warm and dry! This is still on my Hawaii bucket list, because how cool would it be to spend the morning in a SUBMARINE?!

Turtle Town Snorkel and Kayak Tour: Kayakers, this is for you! An expert guide will take you on a 2-mile kayaking adventure through Makena Bay to see green sea turtles, tropical fish, and other marine wildlife endemic to Hawaii. It’s also very common to see manta rays and dolphins, and if you’re extra lucky, a Hawaiian monk seal! 

Lahaina to Lanai Dolphin Watch and Snorkeling: Once you’ve done some snorkeling in Maui, it’s time to discover another island! Head off on a catamaran cruise to Lanai and snorkel with the amazing marine life of the reef gardens. Look out for spinner dolphins on the way – I saw tons when I did this tour!

Turtle Town Snorkel and Whale Watching Cruise: Visiting between November and April? Booking a combo whale watching cruise and turtle town snorkel is the way to go. Two epic experiences in one day! And it’s a really good value, too. Not only will you see nenue (lowfin chubs), goatfish, octopus, black durgon, and frogfish, but you’ll learn about the fascinating behavior of humpback whales and their place in Hawaii as well!

Safety When Snorkeling in Maui 

Snorkeling in Maui is a real treat – BUT you need to do your part in order to stay safe. This is the open ocean we’re talking about – there’s rip currents, strong waves, potentially harsh winds, and of course marine life! 

Before heading into the water, make sure conditions are safe – and if you aren’t sure, ASK! 

• Tides and rip currents are real: Always pay attention to posted signs and never enter the water should it not be safe. The current ocean conditions are posted for a reason (as well as any recent shark sightings)! Pay attention. Rip currents are powerful, narrow channels of fast-moving water — they can bring you far out to sea and it’ll be extremely hard to make it back to shore. 

• Know your limits: While many tours provide life jackets or flotation noodles, it’s advisable to be able to swim when snorkeling in Maui. Some snorkeling spots are better for beginners, while others are more intense and should be left for experienced swimmers/snorkelers only. Before wading into any body of water, know (or ask) about the conditions.

• Always snorkel with a buddy: This goes without saying, but never snorkel alone! In case of an accident, you always want some support with you!

• Never snorkel before sunrise or after sunset: You should only snorkel during daylight hours, for a myriad of reasons. At night, you’re more likely to encounter a shark, underwater visibility decreases, and help/assistance is limited (if you unfortunately find yourself in danger).

• Be aware of sharks: Yes, there are sharks here in Maui. They’re most commonly found further out to sea, but can congregate near the shore at dawn and dusk. Another reason to only snorkel during daylight hours!

• Snorkel close to shore/stay with your group: More accidents occur further out or when you leave your snorkel group. Guided boat trip tours know where to safely snorkel. 

• Never snorkel in murky, brown, or brackish waters: Not only will you have a much harder time seeing the wildlife, but sharks are known to be attracted to the nutrients found in these waters. Stay away! Visibility will be best in clearer waters anyways. 

Other FAQs About Snorkeling in Maui 

Why are all the fish swimming away from me/why don’t I see many fish? Fish are scared of us humans — we’re so much larger than them and kinda look like prey. Whenever you make sudden movements, you scare away all the fish! Stay calm and swim slowly – you’re bound to see more marine life. 

Mimic the flow of the ocean — you never want to panic, show stress, or flap your arms/legs in an erratic manner. Move slowly and gently, and you’ll have the best chance to see all the fish and other sea life. 

How to see sea turtles? Some are disappointed and unsuccessful when on the lookout for turtles.  It’s important to know that the turtles hide in caves or under big rocks, and sometimes just sit in the sand on the bottom. Basically, they’re not always visible at first, and you must wait patiently for them to come up for air (which they need to do since they don’t breathe underwater).  

Look all around you: below, in front, behind, etc… you never know when they’ll come up and surprise you. Feast your eyes on the seafloor too much, and you may see a shark (which may be a good or bad thing depending on your anxiety levels…)

Can you touch sea turtles? NOPE! Note that it’s ILLEGAL to touch a honu; these Hawaiian green sea turtles are federally protected and it’s harmful (and ILLEGAL) to touch, feed, or harass them. 

No one likes a fine on vacation! Just don’t do it. For the sake of the sea turtles, keep your distance as much as possible.

When can you see whales in Maui? Whales migrate south and can be seen off the coast of Maui between November and May, but peak whale watching season is January through March. You may get lucky and see a whale or two as early as October, but don’t count on it.

Marine Life You’ll See While Snorkeling in Maui

Thanks to the fact that Maui was formed by volcanic eruptions, sea life thrives around its shores. 

Snorkeling in Maui will give you the opportunity to see unique marine life that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. Manta and Eagle Rays are a favorite site for visitors, and they’re not exactly afraid of gliding by snorkelers! 

Another unique species I’m sure you’re dying to see are Honus, which are Hawaiian green sea turtles endemic to Hawaii that weigh over 200 pounds! Back in the 70s, these gentle giants were extremely endangered, but thanks to conservation efforts, they’re back and thriving near the shores of Maui and other Hawaiian islands. You can easily spot them at certain places while snorkeling, but they’re also known to show up right at the beach.

Moray eels are another favorite of mine. They may look a bit scary and intimidating, but they’re actually harmless as long as they don’t feel harassed (they’re best watched from a safe distance).

As for tropical fish, it’d be impossible to list all the species you may see while snorkeling in Maui. Some interesting ones include Bigfin Squid (you’re most likely to spot them in Honolua Bay), Striped Belly Puffer Fish, and the Humuhumunukunukuāpua’a (yup, that’s the name!), which is Hawaii’s official fish.

Best Places to Snorkel in Maui

Finally — what you probably came here for! All the best Maui snorkeling spots!

1. Molokini Crater

Molokini Crater is easily the #1 snorkeling spot in Maui, and one of the most unique you’ll find on the island! It’s actually the first place I ever snorkeled in Maui, way back in 2013 before we even moved to the West Coast.

What makes it so special?! The fact that the water around the crater is so clear that spotting animals is super easy! The visiblity is spectacular of up to 150 feet – no wonder all the guidebooks urge visitors to check it out!

It’s not your typical snorkel spot – Molokini Crater is actually a teeny tiny volcanic island shaped like a crescent moon, about 3 miles off the southwest coast of Maui. How was it created?! By a volcanic eruption that happened some 230,000 years ago! Whoa!

Over 250 different species of fish endemic to the region live here, not to mention other marine life such as manta rays, whitetip reef sharks, and white spotted puffers. Morrey eels are rather common here as well, although difficult to spot since they spend their time hiding out in the reef and blend in quite nicely.

Expect to see some pink tail durgons, black triggerfish, red pencil urchins (so cool), yellow tangs, 4-spot butterflyfish, and cornetfish, as well as a kaleidoscope of coral along the ocean’s bottom. 

What’s best? Because the animals around Molokini are so used to humans, they’re not very skittish and getting close to them is very easy! But remember — for the safety of the animals and yours as well, keep your distance!

Molokini Crater can only be reached by boat, which means you’ll need to schedule at least half a day for the adventure. Once you get there, though, you’ll be guaranteed snorkeling like you never have before. Thankfully, there’s daily tours available to Molokini that also stop at a few other snorkeling spots in Maui.

When booking a Molokini Crater snorkel tour, it’s important to look at the approximate hotel pick up time. The water is at its calmest in the early morning, so book a tour that aims to get you into the water as soon as possible (with pick-ups between 6-7am). 

Come too late and the waters will be a bit choppy and you’ll be snorkeling with hundreds of other tour-goers. Not the worst thing in the world (it’ll still be pretty!), but worth the early morning wake up call for sure!

2. Turtle Town (Maluaka Beach)

You haven’t officially been snorkeling in Maui until you spot your first turtle! 

Swimming with sea turtles is such a magical experience, and something I could do every single day and still be ridiculously giddy. And Maluaka (Turtle Town) is easily the best snorkeling spot to find sea turtles in Maui. 

Made up of lava formations that were created hundreds of thousands of years ago by underwater volcanoes, Turtle Town, as its name suggests, is one of the best places to go snorkeling in Maui. Especially if you want to see Hawaiian green sea turtles.

Known as “Honus”, these turtles are only found in Hawaii. Back in the 1970s, they were incredibly endangered — but these days, they’ve made quite a comeback thanks to protective laws and conservation efforts. Seeing them swim about is a truly heartwarming experience!

Turtle Town is actually just a nickname for all the spots along the Makena or Wailea coast, due to common turtle sightings. A real place with the original name of Turtle Town? It had to be too good to be true. And it was. But I did see turtles (quite a few) — so I guess the fake name shouldn’t really matter.

It’s literally crazy how incredibly close the sea turtles came near me. In more instances than one, I had to swim away in fear that I would accidentally touch its fin or shell (a huge no-no in Hawaii).  These “fly-by”‘s left me breathless, instantly hoping to see more Honu’s in my near future. Spoiler alert – I did!

Every time I was about to get out of the water, another turtle swam right by me. I was literally the last one in the water, and my husband had to persuade me to come join everyone back on the boat. I could have stayed out there for hours watching the honu’s, anxiously awaiting the arrival of another. 

If you haven’t been swimming with turtles before, the experience will leave you breathless, I promise. Just don’t forget to breathe through the snorkel, haha.

Like Molokini, plenty of tours take visitors snorkeling at Turtle Town, including this combo Molokini and Turtle Town tour. If you’re visiting during the winter and wanna do some whale watching as well (HIGHLY recommended), there are combo tours Turtle Town and whale watching tours!

3. Ho’okipa Beach Park

This spot is for all my turtle lovers. Come at sunset — you won’t be disappointed. 

If you don’t wanna book a boat tour (or simply can’t find time on your Maui itinerary), head over to Ho’okipa Beach Park! You’ll find an insane amount of Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles resting right here on the sands at sunset. YOU DON’T EVEN NEED TO GET WET TO SEE THEM!

Walk to the far end of the beach (towards the right past all the rocks covered in slimy green algea), and they’ll be right there! I swear we spotted at least 20 on our last visit. Look closely – at first glance they’ll look like rocks, haha. They tend to congregate here and start heading to the shore (from the water) around sunset.

As noted above, PLEASE keep your distance and don’t approach the turtles. Follow all posted signs. 

It’s illegal to touch a honu (sea turtle), and you need to stay the necessary 10 feet away from them. Take a zoom lens if you want closer photos. 

There’s also guards here at times as well. Trust me – it’s taken super seriously since so many people break the rules. Don’t be one of them. This is their land and water – protect them and respect nature. 

Fun fact: “ho’okipa” translates into “place of welcoming comfort”, and it seems turtles took the name quite seriously! These little friends have made Ho’okipa Beach Park one of the favorite hangout spots around the island, and a simple snorkeling session just off the beach will almost guarantee you’ll get to swim amid dozens of them.

While you can snorkel here depending on the tide (only at low tide), it’s far from the best place to snorkel in Maui. Why? Because there’s loads of rocks on the shore/under the water. If you do decide to snorkel here, be extremely careful – the rocks and coral aren’t in very deep water, so it can be pretty difficult to navigate water that shallow. Visiting at high tide? Stay out of the water and plan to watch the surfers and turtles instead.

My recommendation, bring a mask, hang close to shore, and simply pop your head into the water from time to time. You may get lucky and a turtle may very well swim right up to you while wading in the water. There’s also an overlook above where the turtles go to rest – this is a great place to see them afar!

Psst – Looking for more things to do around here? Stop by the cute beach town of Paia. It’s a great place to stay if you’re planning on getting an early start to the Road to Hana.

4. Black Rock at Kaanapali Beach

The snorkeling at Black Rock in Kaanapali (right in front of the Sheraton and Kaanapali Beach Hotel) is A++, so you don’t need to go super far to swim around with the fish and turtles! Mornings tend to be easier since the waves and tradewinds aren’t as high yet. 

Black Rock is located at Ka’anapali Beach, with picture perfect warm white sand and gorgeous views. This is the Maui you’re thinking of. Even though it does get quite busy, you’ll never really have trouble finding a space to snorkel because it’s a pretty big place.

Ka’anapali is a pretty popular beach in Maui, but Black Rock itself is located at the very end of the beach on the north hand side. In Hawaiian, the name of Black Rock is “Pu’u Keka’a”, which translates into “rolling hill”, and it’s considered a historical area and a sacred spot because it’s believed that souls leap into eternity from the top of the hill.

Snorkeling-wise, Black Rock is an excellent spot to find plenty of different fish and a bit of coral on the rock wall. As a warning, currents can get strong here at certain times of the day, so make sure the water is calm before you go in.

Note that the beach can be somewhat crowded and you’ll be sharing the waters with lots of other beach goers. Because of this, the water can appear a bit dark and dirty (from everyone kicking the sand on the ocean floor below). I always attempt to stray away from people, but never too far as I feel safer when others are around. 

5. Napili Bay

Even though it’s quite popular and does tend to get packed during the high season, Napili Bay is another wonderful place to go snorkeling in Maui if you want to stay on the island rather than take a tour.

Something I love about Napili?! The fact that there’s coral and rocks right under the surface super close to the shore! AND the water is very clear, so you can usually see plenty of fish and other underwater creatures even on the shoreline, especially on the left side of it. The water at Napili is also extra calm, so it is one of the best places to snorkel in Maui for kids and beginners.

Past — don’t leave Napili without having some lunch at the Gazebo Restaurant. Order the white chocolate macadamia nut pancakes, and a large fried rice – two things they’re known for. The portions are huge so I recommend sharing! And make sure to eat after snorkeling — no one likes swimming on a full stomach!

6. Kapalua Bay Beach

Ohh — Kapalua Bay! One of our favorite places to snorkel in Maui! First off, it’s perfect for beginners, and secondly, doesn’t require much effort, haha. Since the crescent-shaped bay is sheltered, snorkeling at Kapalua Bay on the north west side of Maui is easy and calm – there’s hardly any waves!

Many people visit Kapalua Beach in order to sunbathe on its white sandy beaches, but it’s also a wonderful place for a quick snorkeling session. The water is very calm and clear, which makes spotting animals right by the shore a super easy task. You’ll get to see coral, colorful fish, and even a few sea turtles gliding by!

There’s actually two snorkeling spots over here at Kapalua Bay – one on the left side of the beach (for more advanced snorkelers), and one on the right hand side (much easier without many rocks). If you’re a confident swimmer, be on the lookout for octopus, crabs, and trumpet fish towards the left hand side.

Regardless of which side you pick, the further you swim out from shore the more sea life and coral you’ll find. But remember – don’t go too far; trade winds may bring you out further than you’d like so always be aware of where you are in the water. 

Local Tip: Don’t waste your time snorkeling in the middle of the bay – it’s mostly sand over here so not many fish hang out (although it’s a great place to practice your freediving skills).

This beach was actually ranked as the best beach in America back in the 90s, and even though the title now belongs to a different one, it’s still absolutely gorgeous. Backed by lucious green lawns and swaying palm trees, we head over everytime we visit Maui. We can’t get enough!

7. Slaughterhouse Beach (Mokuleia Bay)

Located close to Napili, Slaughterhouse Beach (also known as Mokuleia Bay) is another wonderful place to go snorkeling in Maui. Perfect if you’re looking for a bit more solitude and consider yourself a good swimmer and seasoned snorkeler (I wouldn’t recommend it for first-timers, though!)

And no, I have no idea why this spot is called Slaughterhouse Beach, haha.

One of the main reasons Slaughterhouse Beach remains so quiet – you need to walk down a few flights of asphalt steps once you park (in the tiny lot or on the side of the road). Meaning you’ll need to eventually climb back up, ultimately deterring some from visiting! 

Hey, I get it – that’s not everyone’s idea of fun on an otherwise relaxing vacation! If you’re able and have the energy, I highly encourage you to make the short trek down. Because it’s one of the best places to snorkel in Maui!

This dramatic cliff-framed beach is made up of caves, tunnels, and drop offs, which provides a very interesting underwater experience. 

There are tons of creatures swimming in the bay, so sightings are guaranteed, especially tons of silver fish, sea turtles, zebra moray eels, parrot fish, and if you’re lucky, possibly even white tip reef sharks! Don’t fret – I willingly swam with white tip reef sharks in Bora Bora and they’re perfectly safe if you don’t threaten them.

Psst – super experienced swimmers/snorkelers can even swim around the rocky point of Slaughterhouse Beach and snorkel right into Honolua Bay (coming up next on this list of where to go snorkeling in Maui).

I wouldn’t recommend snorkeling here if it’s your first time as swells can get rough sometimes. If you’re a beginner and really want to snorkel here, make sure to stick to the rocky walls near the shore. Not recommended in winter as the swells can get too large and become unsafe.

8. Honolua Bay

Honolua Bay is a Marine Life Conservation District and fishing is forbidden here, so it’s essentially a paradise filled with a huge diversity of marine life. The water stays super calm (and is sheltered from the wind) due to the high rocky cliffs which surround the bay on both sides.

To reach the bay, you’ll need to head out on a short hike through the forest, which is a beautiful adventure in and of itself! There are two trails available, both of which are pretty flat and equally stunning (you can wear flip flops for the hike). There’s no facilities at the beach, so make sure to bring along anything you may need for the adventure. I don’t recommend bringing beach chairs as there won’t be many places to put them, especially at high tide!

The bay is quite big and the “beach”, which isn’t really a beach at all, is completely made up of rocks and boulders. You’ll be able to see marine life just about anywhere, but the best spots require swimming away from the shore (yes! You can get here independently, but if you’re not a super strong swimmer, you can also book a snorkeling tour to Honolua Bay).

Head over the rocks and into the water slowly – they can be slippery! Local Tip: you’ll find most of the fish on the right side of the bay since that’s where most of the coral is!

Don’t leave the area without seeing the bay from above! The colors of the water are even more stunning and vibrant from a higher vantage point. And thankfully, the views are super easy to find. There’s a bunch of designated viewpoints right off the road — can’t miss them! I make my husband take pictures here every time we visit Maui, haha. It’s one of my favorite spots on the island!

9. Kahekili Beach Park (Airport Beach)

Another of the best spots to snorkel in Maui is Kahekili Beach Park, commonly referred to as “Airport Beach”. Why? Because in the 1960’s and early 1970’s, this spot served as West Maui’s only airport!

There are plenty of amenities and facilities all over the beach, plus easy parking, which also means you don’t need to plan a lot or bring many things along.

What makes Airport Beach a wonderful snorkeling spot in Maui is the fact that there’s a reef right by the coastline, so you don’t need to swim very far in order to spot plenty of marine life. Among the creatures you may get to see are colorful fish, eels, and maybe even a few green sea turtles! Plan to head into the water right in front of the north towers of the Westin Ocean Resort Villas.

Bring a beach chair and umbrella – with all the amenities here you can easily spend all day! There’s public restrooms, fresh water showers, picnic tables, and even grills for public use.

As a bonus, if you happen to be visiting Maui during the winter months (November to March), make sure to keep your eyes out for migrating whales as sightings are very common at this time of the year.

10. Lana’i

Exhausted your snorkeling in Maui itself? Head on over to Lanai, a lesser-known island located just a short boat ride away! It makes for a great day trip that will also give you the chance to explore a new Hawaiian island – didn’t think you’d be going to another island during your 5 days in Maui, now did you?!

Hulopoʻe Bay is usually the best spot in Lanai for a snorkeling session. The water here is pretty calm and perfect for swimming, not to mention it’s located inside a protected marine preserve and is home to lots of tropical fish, turtles, eels, and more.

On my last trip to Maui, I opted for a guided trip to Lanai and had the time of my life. Not only did they bring us to a spectacular snorkeling spot, but we saw so many spinner dolphins along the way. Such a magical experience — I almost cried!

Getting to Lanai from Maui only takes about 50 minutes on the ferry if you want to do things independently (there are five daily round trips available). However, I recommend booking a tour instead, especially if you’re short on time and don’t wanna rent a car on Lanai for the day. 

This guided catamaran tour to Lanai takes you to Lanai on a decked-out catamaran and also gives you access to some hidden spots on the island that aren’t quite as popular among visitors! Plus dolphins!

11. Coral Gardens

Home to the largest reef in Maui at over 100 acres, Coral Gardens is a wonderful spot to snorkel in Maui and even all of Hawaii! A true kaleidoscope of coral on the ocean floor.

Here, you’ll find a plethora of giant coral everywhere you look, some of which are as old as 500 years! The area was created by lava flows in the ocean some half a million years ago, and because of its unique geology, marine life absolutely thrives here.

You’ll spot thousands of different fish species that come in all colors of the rainbow as well as other creatures such as Hawaiian green sea turtles, eels, and octopi. Expect to see Hawaiian tropical fish including angelfish, butterflyfish, triggerfish, and giant parrotfish.

Because Coral Gardens is so big, it caters to beginners as well as seasoned snorkelers in the different areas. The best way to make the most out of your time here is by booking a tour to Coral Gardens, as guides will be able to help you find the best spots to see animals! Most tours leave from the Lahaina and Maalaea Harbors.

So there ya have it – a whole slew of the best spots to go snorkeling in Maui! What underwater marine life are you most excited to see? 

The post Snorkeling in Maui: 12 Best Places to Snorkel in Maui (+ Safety and Packing Tips) appeared first on A Passion and A Passport.

Let’s face it — I’m no sunrise girl. Yes, I wake up early when absolutely necessary (say, to catch an early morning flight to Maui or Oahu), but I typically choose not to wake up at the crack of dawn. Sunsets are more my jam, unless it means watching the sun rise above the clouds from a volcano in Maui.

And yes, I just said VOLCANO.

Close your eyes and think of Maui. I’m sure palm trees swaying in the wind, juicy pineapples, and snorkeling with sea turtles come to mind. But a 10,023 foot volcano?! What the actual F?! Yup, that’s over here in Maui. 

Haleakala is home to Maui’s highest peak; of course it’s the perfect place to watch the sunrise on the island! And plus, Haleakala literally means “House of the Sun”, so what better place to watch the sunrise than at Haleakala!

Just imagine that. Picture it in your mind. Sunrise above the clouds from an active volcano. In MAUI! Mystical. Intoxifying. Other-wordly. Exactly my point. Well worth the early morning wake up call.  

And why’s it just so spectacular? A few things actually! 

• The summit’s high elevation (at a whopping 10,023 feet)! 
• The lack of light and environmental pollution. 
• The dynamic weather patterns. 
• The size of the crater; it’s massive — at 7 miles across, 2 miles wide, and close to 3,000 feet deep! 
• It’s MAUI, baby (and everything just feels different on the islands). 

These all make for perfect conditions to view the sky and sunrise! You can even see 4 islands from the summit on a clear day!

A Little Background on Haleakala National Park

Like I noted before, Haleakala is a VOLCANO on Maui! And more specifically, a shield volcano which rose from the ocean approximately 1 MILLION years ago. So yeah, it’s been around quite a while.

In terms of culture and history, natives believe Haleakala is the site where demigod Maui lassoed the sun, ultimately slowing its passage so people had more time to dry kapa (cloth) and grow food. Meaning they were able to live more comfortably on the land. This is all a legend of course, but it’s been a sacred spot to the Hawaiian people for generations and generations.

A few more interesting facts about Haleakala National Park:

• Haleakala National Park was named an International Biosphere Reserve in 1980. It also has the largest concentration of endangered species of any National Park.You may even see endangered Hawaiian geese here!
• It’s one of the three tallest mountains not only in Hawaii, but on Earth (along with Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea volcanoes on the Big Island).
• There’s almost 20,000 feet of mountain hidden below the ocean surface, meaning it’s roughly 30,000 feet tall (from the summit to its base on the ocean floor).

Not many people realize this, but there’s actually 2 completely separate sections of Haleakala National Park. One is where you marvel at the Haleakala sunrise from the summit, and the other is the coastal area of Kīpahulu (where you’ll find the freshwater Pools of Ohe’o, waterfalls, and a lush bamboo forest — typically visited while driving the Road to Hana).

Don’t try to visit on the same day — these two sections are at least a 2 ½ hour drive apart. But do keep the park’s entrance sticker — it’s valid for 7 days at both sections of the park, meaning you only have to pay once!

Is Haleakala Active?

Did you know that each Hawaiian island was created and formed by volcanic eruptions?! True story! So without these active volcanoes and lava flows, there’d be no Hawaii at all! Kinda crazy, right?! Haleakala erupted at least 10 times during the past 1,000 years, with the most recent eruption between about 600 and 400 years ago. So a long time ago, but not sooooo long ago.

But don’t fret — Haleakala is now considered to be dormant since it hasn’t erupted in a relatively long time. BUT it could (and probably will) erupt again sometime in the far off future (don’t worry, it’s on close watch).

Making a Reservation for Sunrise at Haleakala 

The first (and most important) thing you need to know about sunrise at Haleakala is that you NEED to make a reservation in advance — and getting a ticket can be super competitive. 

• Note: Haleakala Summit Sunrise tickets are NOT available at the park or entrance station. They MUST be bought in advance.

On our first trip to Maui back in 2013, there was no reservation system in place to see the sunrise at Haleakala. And OMFG it was crowded like no other. We were fighting people for the view, parking was an absolute nightmare, and the traffic, sheesh! Not the serene early morning experience we were hoping for. We still enjoyed it, but we left thinking it could have been way better (the organization of it, not the sunrise — that was outta this world).

Thankfully, since then, reservations for sunrise are now required. Yeah, yeah, yeah, this means you can’t decide the night before you wanna watch sunrise at Haleakala early the next morning, but I promise the planning ahead is worth it. 

Since sunrise at Haleakala has become so incredibly popular, you now need to make reservations in advance. And there’s not tons of them. Only 150 on any given day! For all the people visiting Maui!  

Individual spots can fill up quickly since there are only 150 parking spaces available per morning. Make reservations here or take the easy way out and book with a certified tour operator (who takes care of your transportation to and from the summit as well as any documentation/advanced reservation requirements).

Note that tickets are per vehicle, not per person (phew!). While tickets are limited to one per customer every three days, don’t be that douche who buys up as many tickets as possible if you’re not gonna use them. Let others take in the magic of Haleakala as well! I was at the beach one day and someone was able to get sunrise tickets for two different days and they weren’t even sure if they were gonna use them. UGH! Not cool, at all!

Psst: Don’t make the long drive to Haleakala (and then the summit) without a reservation if you’re hoping to catch sunrise! They won’t let you in. You’ll need to wait until 7am to enter, and sadly, sunrise will be completely over by then.

When to Book:

60 days in advance!!!! And not a day later. Inventory for Haleakala sunrise tickets are released on a 60-day rolling window prior to the date you wanna go. This means that tickets are released exactly 60 days beforehand, and they go fast! Do NOT wait to buy your ticket! 

If you’re unable to snag a ticket 60 days in advance (or you booked your trip to Maui with less than 2 months to go), there’s thankfully another way! There’s a secondary inventory release 2-days prior to the date you wanna go! While there’s not as many tickets this close to the actual date, you should still go for it. And remember, they get released at 7am HST (Hawaii’s time zone) — know in advance what time this is near you if you’re not yet in Hawaii.

Note: If you are within the 60-day window but the day you choose says tickets are “not yet released,” that means all 60-day window tickets are gone. Yes, every single one of them. The “not yet released” tickets will be released 2-days prior to the start date at 7am HST.

How Much Does it Cost?!

And get this — reservations are only $1. ONE DOLLAR! By far one of the least expensive things you can do on your Maui itinerary! You will still need to pay the $30 park entry fee, so just keep that into account when planning (although Haleakala is a national park so it’s included on your America the Beautiful national parks pass should you already have that).

Are Reservations Always Required at Haleakala?

For sunrise — yes! Haleakala National Park now requires reservations for each vehicle entering the park before sunrise (3:00 a.m. to 7:00 a.m.). But you can go other times of day without a reservation at all. And I promise you, the park is still spectacular whether you see the sunrise or not. But watching the sunrise is definitely a Hawaii bucket list item for sure.

Tips for Getting A Reservation for Sunrise at Haleakala National Park

It’s a competitive sport in and of itself getting that coveted reservation for sunrise at Haleakala. I’m part of numerous Hawaii Facebook groups and people are so surprised they’re not able to easily get a ticket a few days before! Thankfully I’ve got a whole bunch of tips for ya! Either write them down or save this post for later — I’m sharing my exact method here!

Tip #1: YOU NEED A RESERVATION FOR SUNRISE AT THE SUMMIT (entering between 3am – 7am). Yes, I know I keep saying this, but you NEED one. You’ll be denied entry without one. There’s literally no way around this. Figure out exactly when you want to see the sunrise at Haleakala, and mark your calendar NOW. Then figure out EXACTLY 60 days prior from that date, and mark that in your calendar too. 

Tip #2: Create an account on Recreation.gov NOW, or at least before the dates of the Haleakala National Park Summit Sunrise tickets go on sale (60 days in advance). But just do it now so you don’t forget (it’s free!). You’ll need to log into your account before you can add a sunrise ticket to your cart and then purchase it. Don’t waste time the morning of creating an account — you’ll likely miss out on tickets before you even finish signing up!

Tip #3: Be ready the literal second reservations go on sale. Not 5 minutes later, not 2 minutes later, not even 1 minute later. Be ready and at your computer with the browser open to add the ticket to your cart at exactly 7am HST 60 days prior. I’m not kidding when I say it’s a competitive sport. The tickets sell out right away — you’ve gotta be one of the first! And unfortunately, there’s no guarantee of getting a ticket even if you attempt the second they become available. But hey, gotta up your chances as best you can!

Tip #4: I always recommend sunrise at Haleakala on the first morning of your trip (easier for jet lag this way). BUT, if you’re not able to do so/can’t get a reservation, you can keep checking every day to see if you’re able to secure a ticket for the following days. If you’ve got a few days in Maui you’ve got more chances to snag a ticket.

I couldn’t get a sunrise reservation. Now what?!

Thankfully, you’ve got a few options! 

First option is to book yourself on a Haleakala sunrise tour. While these are obviously more costly than the $1 reservation fee, if you wanna see sunrise, there’s no other way. I’ve listed a few options below — go check those out!

Second option is to simply go after sunrise. As noted earlier, you’re allowed to enter the park without an advance reservation after 7am each day. The park is absolutely amazing during sunrise or after — I promise! Visiting after sunrise means you’ll get to see the crater all lit up, and it’ll already be quite warm out! Plus, you don’t need to skip/rush through breakfast, so you can hike as long as you want on the Sliding Sands Trail without anyone getting hangry (guilty!).

Third option is to watch the sunset at Haleakala, which more and more people have been doing if they’re unable to get a sunrise reservation. While I’ve never watched a Haleakala sunset, I’ve heard it’s absolutely spectacular. And you don’t need to bundle up in all your winter gear. Although if you wanna stay after sunset to do some star gazing (highly recommended), you’ll wanna bring along some warm clothes.

Haleakala Sunrise Tours 

Can’t get a reservation? Don’t fret! You can take a tour instead, meaning they take care of your transportation to and from the summit as well as any documentation/advanced reservation requirements. This means you don’t need to struggle to get your own sunrise reservation. Phew!

Sunrise at Haleakala with Breakfast: This tour will pick you up at your hotel, drive through Maui’s upcountry Kula District, and experience the awe-inspiring sunrise at Haleakala National Park. All before breakfast, which is then served at a local restaurant afterwards. The guides know all about the one-of-a-kind landscape and terrain, meaning you’ll see rare silversword plants and maybe even catch a glimpse of the Nene goose!

Sunrise at Haleakala then Self-Guided Bike Ride down the Volcano: Want something a bit more active?! Watch the sunrise atop Haleakala, then bike down the mountain from 6,500 ft. (meaning you’ll glide on by for 23 miles!). And the best part — going at YOUR pace and not the pace of a group (how most guided sunrise bike tours are organized). Entrance to Haleakala for sunrise, transport to the top, and bike rental are all included!

Haleakala Sunrise then Guided Bike Down to the Beach: LIke the sound of that second tour but want some more instruction from a professional guide? You don’t bike down a volcano every weekend?! ? Then this is the Haleakala sunrise tour for you. Watch a magical Maui sunrise atop 10,023 foot Mt. Haleakala, view the spectacular crater, and then enjoy biking down 26 miles. All transport, safety, and bike gear provided. And the best part — you finish riding at the beach (unlike most other companies)!

Sunrise at Haleakala: Logistics

How to Get to Haleakala National Park

Haleakala National Park is kinda in the middle of nowhere on Maui. It’s not near any of the major tourist areas, meaning you’ll more than likely have a bit of a drive no matter where you’re staying. Like I mentioned earlier, there’s two parts to Haleakala National Park. Make sure you direct to the right one! 

You’ll wanna input “Haleakala National Park Summit Entrance” right into your GPS (where you’ll show your reservation and park pass/pay to enter). Once you get there, you’ve still got another 30 minute (12 mile) drive to the actual summit and Visitor Center! 

Times below are to the summit entrance station at 7,000 feet elevation. Regardless of where you’re coming from, tack on another 30 minutes or so to drive the remaining 3,000 feet of elevation to where you’ll watch the sunrise at Haleakala. 

• From Kahului: 50 minutes (28 miles)
• From Paia: 50 minutes (23 miles)
• From Kihei: 1 hour (35 miles)
• From Wailea: 1 hour, 15 minutes (40 miles)
• From Lahaina: 1 ½ hours (50 miles)
• From Kaanapali/Kapalua: 2 hours (60 miles)
• From Hana: 2 ½ hours (60 miles)

But remember, there may be traffic and the roads are steep and windy (meaning you’ll need to go super slow). Take your time. You actually climb from sea level to above 10,000 ft in only 38 miles… It’s one of the shortest ascending roads to this elevation in the WORLD. Kinda crazy, right?

Note that there may be a line at the entrance to show your reservation, so plan to arrive extra early! You don’t wanna come all this way and then somehow miss sunrise! And plus, the Haleakala Highway (Route 378 — the road you’ll be taking) is super windy, so you can’t go fast.

If you wanna be the absolute closest on the island, plan to spend the night in Upcountry the night before. But honestly? Getting up super early is just part of the experience! And it’ll still be a long drive from Upcountry since the national park is so high up on super windy roads.

You’ll be driving up the mountain in the dark, so you won’t get the views on your way. But when you’re done with sunrise at Haleakala, make sure to stare out that window! The views are just remarkable — you’ll be driving above the clouds for a bit. It’s absolutely wild!

As you drive to the national park and within, please respect speed limits. The park road passes through endangered species habitats, so gotta be extra careful.

Psst — you’ll need to show your reservation confirmation email and a photo ID matching the name of the reservation-holder when you enter the park. Be prepared and have it ready!

Parking at Haleakala for Sunrise

Both times we went to Haleakala for sunrise, the lot for the actual summit (the Haleakala Observatory) was already full! And we got there way before sunrise! WHOA — told you this place is popular! 

You can still walk up there if you really want, but the views we saw were absolutely spectacular where we were so I don’t see any reason to. We parked by the Visitor Center and watched the sunrise from the viewpoint over there. 

You have to leave at what time?!

Way earlier than you probably thought. Yup — this will 1000% be a super early morning. But I promise you it’s well worth it! For sunrise at 5:38am in mid-June, we set our alarms to 3:30am (with back-up alarms every 5 minutes afterwards). And we almost didn’t make it, even by staying in Paia which is slightly closer to Haleakala than other popular tourist towns. So do me a favor and wake up an hour before you think you have to.

Of course the sun rose the absolute earliest out of the entire year in mid-June when we visited. The summer solstice — of course!

As we already established, sunrise at the Haleakala summit is super popular, so aim to arrive at least 30 minutes before sunrise. You’ll have to drive the winding 38 mile Crater Road in the dark, so plan to leave even earlier than you think.

• Check exact sunrise times here: The sun rises between 5:30am – 7am depending on the time of year, with summer being earliest and winter being the latest.

What to Bring and Wear

Word of advice: Bring Warm Clothes. Yes, it’s Maui, but the temperature drops about 3º for every 1,000 feet of elevation, meaning it’ll be about 30º colder at the summit than at sea level. Remember — you’re here to watch the sunrise, meaning it’ll be chilly regardless (there’s no sun to warm everything up just yet)! So if it’s 65° at sea level on the beach in the wee hours of the morning, it’ll be a cool 35° at Haleakala. I didn’t bundle up enough and I was freezing my butt off. The temps frequently drop to below freezing!

More advice: The summit is remote and as we already discussed, at a super high altitude. There’s not many facilities nearby, and emergency medical assistance is at least an hour away. I don’t say this to scare you, but to stress the importance of bringing everything you need — just in case. 

All My Haleakala Must-Haves:

• Layers, layers, and layers. And then probably another layer. Take a scarf, alllll the sweatshirts you brought with you, your hotel blanket if you’re feeling a bit extra, and layer, layer, layer. You’ll thank me later when you’re standing there comfortably watching the sunrise at 10,000 feet without freezing your little toes off.

• Snacks if you think you’ll be hungry that early (my husband got super hungry so I’m glad I had some leftover muffin and trail mix in the car from the day before).

• Fill up your gas tank ahead of time, preferably the night before. There’s no gas stations in the park, so come prepared with what you’ll need for the day and then some.

• Sunscreen! Yes, sunscreen! The sun’s radiation is super intense at this super high elevation (hey, you’ll be 10,000 feet above sea level) so be sure to protect your skin and slather on that sunscreen. Sun burns aren’t sexy anyways, and they hurt! Don’t wanna be a lobster before you even hit the beach!

• Reusable water bottles, especially if you’ll be doing a bit of hiking after watching the sunrise at Haleakala.

• Sturdy hiking shoes if you plan to hang around a bit afterwards and explore. We walked a bit on the Sliding Sands trail and regular sneakers were sufficient (although the sand is dusty and red, meaning my light pink Nikes got kinda dirty).

• National Parks Pass. Of course I left mine at home and we had to pay the $30 fee to get in, whoops! I mean, you don’t typically think of Hawaii as a place you’d be going to National Parks! Don’t be me — pack your parks pass ASAP!

When to Go

During your trip: The first morning you have! Why see the Haleakala sunrise on the first day? Because depending on where you’re coming from, you’ll most likely have a case of major jet lag. And I mean MAJOR. Use this to your advantage! If you’re flying in from the East Coast USA, 2am will actually feel more like 8am. Not so terrible now, am I right?

Weather at Haleakala: Like Olympic National Park in Washington, the weather is pretty tough to accurately forecast. It’s highly unpredictable (especially at the summit), and can change super fast. Like I keep stressing, just come prepared for freezing wind chill temps just in case — you just never know!

Typically, summers are dry and warm (well, relatively), while winters can be wet, windy, and downright freezing. There’s even usually at least a few days per year that the summit gets a dusting of snow! How wild would it be to see snow in Hawaii?! If you want the best chance of near-perfect conditions, check sunrise at Haleakala off your Hawaii bucket list in the summer months.

On a normal day at sunrise, the temps are usually in the high 30’s to low 40’s. Brr…. but thankfully, the air heats up quickly once the sun is out. I had to take my fleece off within 20 minutes of sunrise! By noon it can be 65-75°F!

Other Tips for Visiting Haleakala at Sunrise

• As always, when hiking in national parks and elsewhere, Leave No Trace. Please leave natural resources and cultural artifacts, rocks, and structures alone. Dispose of your trash properly, never feed/chase/harass animals, and be a kind human being.

• The summit is a sacred place to Native Hawaiians. Please be quiet and respectful. This is not the place for your early morning dance party — leave your Moana singalongs to the privacy of your own car. ?

• On that note, local Hawaiians welcome the sunrise with an ole or Hawaiian chant. Listen to this as you gaze at the sunrise at Haleakala — it’s downright magical.

Things to do after watching a Haleakala Sunrise

Don’t leave so fast! Sure, sunrise at Haleakala is an early morning adventure, but that doesn’t mean you need to leave as soon as the sun breaks the horizon. Stay a while — the park and surroundings are awesome!

• Walk on the Sliding Sands Trail a bit. You don’t have to go far, but even walking 20 minutes down into the crater will feel otherworldly! The colors of the terrain are absolutely outstanding! Just remember you have to go back up the same way you walked down, so don’t go terribly far — and that elevation is difficult (there’s less oxygen in the air), especially on a hungry stomach.

• Check out some viewpoints. We randomly found a viewpoint with views of the 3 cinder cones, and I honestly thought I was staring right out onto Mars. Absolutely mindblowing. I still can’t believe what I saw. It’s called the Kalahaku Overlook — don’t miss it. Absolutely spectacular. 

• And once hunger sets in, make a beeline straight to Kula Bistro. I had one of the best egg omelettes of my life here — that, or maybe I was just starving — but really though, it was SO good. We went to Kula Lodge last time we headed to Haleakala for sunrise, but I’ve heard the food and service have really gone downhill lately. What a shame — I remember the view being so gorgeous!

• Explore some of Upcountry Maui (which isn’t terribly far from Haleakala and Kula Bistro). Head to the Ali’i’ Kula Lavender Farm, Surfing Goat Dairy, and Alba’s Cuban Coladas. Unfortunately we visited on a day where much of what I wanted to see was closed, so we’ll have to continue exploring Upcountry another time!

I hope this helped you learn how to snag a reservation for sunrise at Haleakala! Fingers crossed you get one! When are you headed to Maui?!

The post Sunrise at Haleakala: The Perfect Place to Watch the Sunrise in Maui (+ Haleakala Sunrise Tours) appeared first on A Passion and A Passport.

Plan on photographing Oahu for a few days — this list of Oahu Instagram spots is pretty long! From the most photogenic beaches and lookout points, to the most instagrammable Oahu coffee shops and hotels, to everything else in between!

Oahu is like one big instagram feed waiting to happen. Every inch of the island is impressive, from the laid-back North Shore all the way to the bustling Honolulu. I was surprised that I was able to find a whole slew of photo spots in Honolulu itself, being a rather large city and all! Because let’s face it, half the spots on this list are beaches (makes sense, this IS Hawaii!).

We love visiting the islands. Now that we live in California, Hawaii is so much more accessible to us than when we lived in New York City. We’ve visited all the islands a handful of times (except the Big island — we’re planning to visit next year), and I can honestly say they’re all just fantastic! 

Don’t skip Oahu because people say it’s “just a city”. I promise you — Oahu is SO much more than Waikiki and Honolulu, although I do happen to love those urban areas too!

Venture on over to the North Shore for some cool, laidback vibes, the East Side for so much wild beauty, and don’t miss the jagged green mountain ranges. Oahu’s really got it all — I promise! And this Instagram guide to Oahu will clearly show you that!

With that being said, I’ve compiled all my favorite Oahu photography spots — some more popular than others and some you’ve probably never even heard of! I’m including all the iconic Oahu photo spots, as well as a bunch of lesser-known and local hidden gems! Plus a few I’ve personally found myself!

→ Psst — need help planning your trip to Hawaii?! I’ve got lots of good info over here!

Instagram Worthy Hikes and Lookouts

1. Diamond Head

Get ready for a serious climb and some serious views — Diamond Head is by far one of the most beautiful places in Oahu. Aka, don’t miss it! 

The hike isn’t that bad, I promise (just wear proper footwear!). Don’t leave this off your Oahu itinerary — where else can you climb up an extinct Hawaiian volcanic crater?! Honestly, even if you’re more of a “lay-on-the-beach-sip-mai-tai’s” kinda girl (or guy!), get your butt up and do it anyways.

The views are downright STUNNING, (think emerald green mountains against sparkling aquamarine water), making it easily one of the best Oahu instagram spots.

Although the hike is only about 1.6 miles round trip, you’ll find lots of windy, rocky, uneven and narrow trails. Oh, and expect some steep stairs as well. Makes sense – you’re climbing up 500 feet to the top of a crater! 

Definitely start early — you’ll avoid the lines and crowds on the stairs (it gets busy and the stairs are narrow). I do have to say it’s kinda difficult to get that perfect instagram shot because of all the people, but if you work your angles right, you may just get “the shot”. We weren’t patient enough for this, haha.

Make sure to take lots of water (and a hat and sunscreen) — the sun is strong here! While it’s a super popular hike and honestly not all that difficult (even with all the stairs), it can be taxing in the heat. I didn’t hydrate nearly enough and honestly almost passed out!

2. Lanikai Pillbox Hike

While not one of the longest trails you’ll find on the island, the Pillbox hike may be one of the prettiest and historic on all of Oahu. During your trek you’ll stumble upon colorful and graffiti-covered military bunkers, and witness a stunning panoramic view of Lanikai Beach. And when I say stunning, I mean stunning.

Expect a view with tons of swaying palm trees, crystal clear turquoise water, and two mokes (those pointed islands you see in the photos) jutting out of the water.

We somehow found ourselves lost on the trail and never made it to the top where the pillboxes are located. But just look at that view we got on our attempt up — I’d say we still found one of the best Oahu instagram spots regardless!

3. Makapu’u Lookout

Finally, views without the effort! Thankfully, you can see some of the most instagrammable places in Oahu even if you’re not a hiker!

This lookout point is on the East Side of Oahu, and worth a quick few minutes! You’ll see the golden yellow sands of Makapu’u Beach down below, a whole bunch of reefs in the turquoise waters, and even a lighthouse! Visiting in winter? This is a great place to whale watch! Next time I wanna do the short hike (it’s paved!).

The clouds were rolling in when we went (and it was super windy), but still — this spot has got to be one of the best Oahu photo spots. And plus, it couldn’t be easier to access, as it’s right off the side of the highway! 

4. Stairway to Heaven (“Haiku Stairs”)

I’m sure you’ve seen photos of this narrow, rusty staircase snaking through the Hawaiian mountains plastered all over IG. And yea, it sounds epic, right?! The stairs were built way back when during World War II as a way for soldiers to access the radio antenna that sits at the top. 

BUT, the Stairway to Heaven hike has been illegal for many, many years now (actually since the 1980s!). People still do it, but it’s not worth the repercussions in my opinion. Honestly, you’ll find so many other Instagram spots in Oahu (just as good or even better).

I feel like the main reason people want to do this hike is because it’s illegal, and that makes it more appealing for some reason. If you do get caught (which is happening much more these days), expect to pay a $1000 fine (it’s actually considered a felony)! I’ve heard that security has been greatly upgraded, and there’s also police hanging out there as well looking to give out penalties.

Psst: The Moanalua Valley Trail, another path leading to the stairs and how people used to bypass the guards, is actually illegal now too. 

Your call if you wanna do the hike, but I wouldn’t risk the penalty myself. Do yourself a favor and skip this one. I just included it on this list of Instagram spots in Oahu to let you know it’s illegal and to move on and skip it!

5. Nu’uanu Pali Lookout

Need more coastal cliff and mountain peak views in your life, minus the hiking? Make a short stop at the Nu’uanu Pali Lookout! The lookout features panoramic views of the windward coast of Oahu — and it’s absolutely gorgeous! Just beware, it’s windy AF.

As noted above, it’s typically beyond windy over here (think gusts of 40-50mph), so taking a photo of yourself without hair blowing all over sounds difficult! A photo looking out and hiding your face would work here though! Hold on to your hats, sunglasses, and phones; it was so windy I was having a hard time steadying my hands to take a quick photo! And take along a light jacket!

We were a bit confused on parking, as there were signs saying visitors had to pay $7 or so. Since we were only planning on staying a few minutes, Noah dropped me off while I ran to look at the view and he stayed with the car. I’m not entirely sure they actually check parking, but we figured, better safe than sorry.

6. China Walls (aka Koko Kai Mini Beach Park)

This spot is quite different from other beaches, as in it’s not really a beach at all! It’s more like a massive series of lava rock ledges and platforms to hang out on and admire the turquoise waters below. While we just looked out at the water from atop the rocks, others jumped in! It sure looked super refreshing! Just be extra careful as it looked kinda difficult to get back up the slick rock. There’s no ladders (it’s all natural), so you may need a friend to help you!

If you want some unique angles while photographing Oahu, definitely head on over to China Walls. There’s such beautiful views of the Pacific here, with lots of ledges and cliffs making for interesting photography. You may even catch some cliff-jumpers here! Be extra careful during high tide. 

You won’t be able to park directly next to the entrance (there’s lots of no parking signs), but we easily found free street parking about 5 minutes away in the neighborhood.

7. Halona Blowhole Lookout

Wanna watch water shoot 30 feet into the air from a lava tube? Head over to the Halona Blowhole Lookout. It’s absolutely insane. You may have to wait around for the hole to blow, and to be honest, if you don’t know exactly where to look, it’s easily missable if the tide is low.

When we went there were a few people looking for the exact blowhole, and no one knew exactly where to find it! Still a beautiful area and so fun! If you’re visiting Halona Beach Cove, you’ll be parking in this lot anyways, so worth a shot to look! I later learned that the blowhole isn’t active at all times of day, so it’s possible the little misting we saw from the rocks was it!

8. Tantalus Lookout

Looking for one of the best Oahu photo spots for sunset? Head up to Tantalus Lookout at Puu Ualakaa State Park! It’s quite the panoramic show and only about 15 minutes from Waikiki. You can even see striking views of Diamond Head and the Waikiki skyline, giving you some of the best views on Oahu.

Come a bit early (the parking lot isn’t huge), set up a blanket on the grassy lawn, and watch the sky change colors.

Note that you’ll need to drive up a windy mountain road to get here, so be especially careful on your way back down in the dark. Take it slow!

9. Koko Head

Now, I haven’t done this hike myself (we decided to lay by the pool and sip mai tais instead — kill me), but it’s still on my bucket list of instagram spots in Oahu for next time!

This steep hike is actually an abandoned railroad track on Koko Crater, with over 1,000 uneven steps (straight up the hill, making for a great leg workout). There’s little shade, so make sure you slather on the sunscreen, wear a hat, and bring plenty of water. 

Probably not the best hike for people with a fear of heights, as you’re literally scaling a steep mountain the entire time.

Instagrammable Beaches and Gardens

1. Lanikai Beach

Ohhh Lanikai Beach. It’s everyone’s favorite beach on Oahu, and it’s not hard to see why. The water’s clear, the sand is super soft and white, and there’s tons of palm trees swaying around. Idyllic Hawaii as it’s best! It’s honestly one of those places you’d see on a postcard! And luckily you get to visit! 

Out in the distance you’ll see the two mokes — the two large rocks jutting out of the water. And if you hike up to the Lanikai Pillboxes, you’ll get to see the beach from above (one of my favorite photo spots in Oahu!).

This place used to be kinda a hidden little local secret — but it’s now super popular and therefore pretty crowded. Come early to snag a parking spot (there’s not much along the road). It’s well worth the parking hassle though, I promise!

Try to visit on a day when the sky’s clear and blue — it’ll make the water exceptionally more beautiful. We unfortunately visited right when it was about to rain, and while the water was still pretty, I can’t even imagine how stunning it’d be on a nice day!

2. Laniakea Turtle Beach

If you come to Hawaii looking for green sea turtles, 100% head over to Laniakea Beach. It’s not known as Turtle Beach for nothing! On our last trip to Oahu, we FINALLY got to see the turtles resting on the sand, and I was nothing short of ecstatic. We had snorkeled with them plenty of times in Maui but never saw them out and about!

If you do see them, there’ll likely be a rope around them urging visitors not to get too close (as well as volunteers to answer all your burning turtle questions!). If you are lucky enough to see them, be sure to keep your distance. It’s a federal offense here in Hawaii to go near honus (sea turtles), and you don’t wanna not be welcomed back!

And if there’s no turtles resting on the beach that day, don’t fret → the beach is super scenic! I actually loved all the mossy green rocks and boulders; it made photographing the beach that much more interesting!

3. North Shore Beach Swing

Take a drive on the scenic Kamehameha Highway for lots of ocean views, almost-empty stretches of sand, and beach swings!

Sadly, I don’t have an exact spot for this, but I actually saw a few beach swings on our way to the North Shore along Kam Highway! If you see one, pull over on the side of the road → you’ll likely be the only one there! We had the beach all to ourselves for quite a bit one morning until a sweet family joined us.

4. Waimea Bay

Come here for sunset — you won’t be disappointed! And better yet — bring along a few POG-flavored Maui hard seltzers and you’re in for a good time (please be respectful and stay welllll under your limit).

Not only is the beach absolutely gorgeous, but you might even see people jumping off the large rocks surrounding the bay! I wasn’t one of them, just FYI.

5. Hanauma Bay

Hanauma Bay is full of the best photo spots on Oahu — both above and below the water! Since it is a protected marine ecosystem (it’s actually a former volcanic crater), there’ll be beautiful coral reefs, loads of tropical fish (like the ridiculously colorful parrotfish!), and other sea life. Just be sure to take along your underwater camera! I like to use a waterproof phone case and a GoPro for photos!

Just remember — you’re never allowed to touch or walk on any coral (it’s actually a law here in Hawaii!) and NEVER mistreat the marine animals (no chasing/petting/feeding/etc). Also – be sure to have reef safe sunscreen, as other sunscreens are not allowed in the bay.

While the whole nature preserve is super pretty, it’s actually the view walking down to the beach which I find the most stunning. From up here, you can really see the reefs below the surface and the small waves lapping the sand. We unfortunately visited on a cloudy day so the water wasn’t as turquoise as it normally is, but still gorgeous nonetheless!

6. Ho’omaluhia Botanical Gardens

The entrance road to the Ho’omaluhia Botanical Gardens used to be one of the most popular instagram photo spots on Oahu. And I get why — it’s lined with palm trees, there’s an epic mountain backdrop, and enough greenery for days. It even gave me some serious Road to Hana vibes. However, it’s recent rise to fame has forced the park to prohibit photos along the road now (which I understand — it’s not safe to have people wandering into the middle of the road for pictures).

Don’t try it — you may get fined! There’s plenty of “No Stopping” and “No Photography” signs right on the road. AND someone at the entrance enforcing it. Don’t fret — there’s still lots more places in Ho’omaluhia Botanical Gardens to take photos! I snapped this photo as we were driving out the car window.

7. Waikiki Beach

How could this be a complete list of instagrammable places in Oahu without even a mention of Waikiki Beach? Ha — now that’d just be super silly. Yes, it’ll probably be crowded — it’s Waikiki Beach afterall, but it’s still worth a few photos! Most people overlook it thinking it’s too popular, but hey, it’s popular for a reason! Whatever you do, don’t leave it off your Oahu itinerary.

The water’s a bright turquoise, you’ve got the stunning Diamond Head in the distance, and the vibes are so fun! There’s always something going on over here! And even if it’s busy, there’s 2 miles of soft, white sand, alongside the highrises and backed by palms, so you can always look for a less-crowded spot.

Visit in the early morning for a higher chance of less people. I watched sunrise from here one morning and had the beach almost all to myself, minus some surfers in the water. But no matter the time of day, the water will be a bright turquoise and there’s lot of boats making for some excellent Oahu photography! 

8. Shark’s Cove

You NEED to visit Shark’s Cove! We loved it so much we visited not once, not twice, but yes, three times! I mean, look at the photos — the whole area is downright GORGEOUS! Such a difference to the other beaches in the area. Take a short walk to get different angles of the cove; we loved hanging around here! 

If you’ve got time, whip out your snorkels (or rent some from across the street), and dive below the surface! While we didn’t snorkel here, I’ve heard there’s tons of fish — like the striking Moorish idol angelfish, colorful parrot fish, shingle urchins, and cauliflower corals. We were even able to see a few schools of fish from the surface! Someone even saw an eel with just their feet in when we were there!

Do note that Shark’s Cove changes drastically with the seasons. In the summer, it’s as smooth as glass. Winter brings lots of crashing waves! Always be careful, but be extra careful if you’re getting in the water in winter!

9. Halona Beach Cove

Okay, whatever you do, you NEED to visit Halona Beach Cove. Yes, I know I just said that about Shark’s Cove, but this is another Oahu photo spot you must not miss! Out of our multiple trips to Oahu, I think Halona Beach Cove is one of my favorites of all time! It’s 100% one of the most beautiful places in Oahu, easily!

It’s small and scenic and surrounded by jagged cliffs on three sides. I’ve heard it’s exceptionally amazing for sunrise (although we typically choose to sleep in a tad!). I also heard Pirates of the Caribbean was filmed here, but I’m not too sure how accurate that is! :p

Psst: We parked by the Halona Blowhole Lookout and walked over. You’ll need to walk on the road for a tiny bit, and then you’ll see a set of rocky “stairs” leading down to the beach cove. It’s not that difficult, but be extra careful. And once you get down there — expect paradise and then some. We could have spent all day over there; it really was that phenomenal!

10. Banzai Pipeline

Wanna watch some of the most experienced surfers ride some waves?! Get your booty over to Banzai on the North Shore! It’ll take a little practice, but photographing the crest of the wave will get you such an iconic Oahu photo! And if you can get a surfer riding a wave — well, even better!

If you’re not a pro surfer (or haven’t been seriously surfing for years), don’t even think about getting on a board in winter. The waves are HUGE, and it’s actually super dangerous if you don’t know exactly what you’re doing. 

We had so much fun watching the waves and surfers one night right before sunset — we just made sure not to get too close to the water! The currents are crazy! Just listening to the waves crash against the shorebreak is absolutely wild.

11. Tidepools at Makapu’u

The water filling the rocky pools make for some interesting Oahu photography, that’s for sure! And these tidepools are far one of the most instagrammable places in Oahu — they’re even formed from black lava! You’ll wanna of course wear your bathing suit to get some shots inside the tidepools.

The place was nearly deserted and we had the area all to ourselves for a little while! 

And if things couldn’t get any better — we saw TWO Hawaiian monk seals hanging out on the rocks near the water. And one was a little baby! By far one of the most epic wildlife experiences of my life. Why? Because monk seals are extremely endangered, and there’s only about 1,400 of them left in the world (making them the most endangered seal or sea lion species in the USA).

So with that being said, keep your eyes peeled for them! Respect them and their space — never get too close (we kept our distance).

After taking some photos at the tidepools, we walked to nearby Makapu’u Beach to check it out!

• Psst: there’s two locations for this spot on Google Maps, but we visited the ones right near Sea Life Park Hawaii.

12. Haleiwa Beach Park

If you’re looking to actually get in the water in the winter on the North Shore (other beaches aren’t safe), this is the place to be. Since there’s a jetty here, the water is typically calmer. I can feel a whole bunch of Oahu IG photos coming! I recommend taking photos under the palms and near the jetty!

We loved strolling the beach, and noticed there’s a few tables at the north end of the park which would be perfect for picnics overlooking the sand and ocean. And plus, there’s a huge lot so parking is super easy.

13. Dole Plantation

If you wanna take some photos in a lush pineapple field, here’s your chance! There’s also plenty of rainbow Eucalyptus over here, too! And if you’ve never had pineapple soft serve before, THIS is the place to get it! I mean, who doesn’t love a good dole whip?!

Walk through the maze, look at the growing baby pineapples, and of course have an early-morning pineapple dole whip — but beware, it’s pretty sweet! There’s also tons of pineapple treats for purchase (for now or to save for later!).

14. Byodo-In Temple

Missing Japan? Head to this replica of an elaborate and historic Japanese Buddhist temple. There’s manicured gardens, tranquil meditation sites, and even a lovely koi pond. Look out for the black swans and peacocks! And it’s only $5 per person for entry. It made me miss our time in Kyoto so badly!

The temple is one of the most unique photo spots in Oahu, and I wouldn’t miss it! My favorite spot was the bridge towards the temple as soon as we passed the entrance, with the jagged green peaks behind. There’s also some tall bamboo which would make for a great background as well.

Murals and Street Art in Oahu

1. Street Art in Kakaako

Since Oahu boasts a lively (and quite large) city, you’ll find a whole bunch of urban photo spots in Oahu as well! And my favorite area for color in the city — the up-and-coming trendy neighborhood of Kakaako. It kinda reminded me of the Wynwood Walls in Miami! Here’s a few of my favorites from years past:

You’ll definitely find the most colorful instagram spots in Oahu over here! There’s a whole bunch of murals in this hip little area, with many claiming Kakaako to be Honolulu’s trendiest district. The murals get refreshed during the Pow Wow Street Art Festival every February, so you never know what you’ll find!

We loved wandering around looking for all the colors and taking fun photos!

2. Wings of the North Shore 

Have you been to the North Shore if you haven’t taken a photo with the famous multicolored butterfly wings at Anahulu Shave Ice? This has recently exploded as one of the best Instagram spots in Oahu, and I can see why. I was excited to learn that they are in fact part of Colette Miller’s collection! And while you’re at it, grab some shave ice!

Restaurants, Bars, and Coffee Shops

Whenever I travel, I always tend to gravitate towards the hip, colorful foodie spots. I’m a sucker for photogenic food! And while I understand there’s probably better food out there, I really enjoy these little boutique cafes!

Some are super well-known and iconic to Oahu, while others are little hidden gems I’ve found along the way. But whatever you say, I consider them some of the best instagram spots on Oahu regardless!

I typically just take photos of the food themselves (instead of being in them). Why? Because I’m kinda impatient when it comes to eating (when this girls hangry, it’s no fun). But you do you! The interiors of these spots I’ve picked out are super boutiquey and just downright cute. Go for it!

→ Read Next: My top 25+ places to eat in Oahu

1. Leonard’s Bakery

Mmmm… just thinking about Leonard’s drives me absolutely wild. They’re that orgasmic. We always make Leonard’s our first stop after the airport — and we’re never disappointed. Expect a line, but it always moves fast.

Order a plain glazed original, the macadamia nut (my personal fave), a chocolate filled, and one flavor of the day. They’re best eaten while fresh and hot (they make and fill them to order), so don’t order more than you can eat! And they’re actually super filing, so share a few with friends!

While we of course come for the malasadas, the cute pink boxes, pink and white striped awning, and neon sign are just as IG-worthy.

2. Mai Tai Bar

No trip to Hawaii is complete until you’ve had a few Mai tais! And lucky me – Mai Tai Bar at The Royal Hawaiian is my husband’s bar of choice when it comes to cocktails in Oahu. I mean, all the umbrellas are pink (and the blues of the Pacific are right there), making this chic bar one of the best photo spots in Oahu! Especially for anyone who loves a stiff drink!

This bar is located right at the edge of Waikiki beach — ask for a table overlooking the sand and Diamond Head!

Psst — they make their drinks quite strong so if you’re looking for something a bit on the lighter side, just let them know. ?

3. Arvo Cafe

Ohhh, we love this cute little plant-filled Aussie-inspired coffee shop! Don’t miss the ricotta strawberry toast, halloumi burger, a lavender latte, and some fresh squeezed OJ! Make sure to go here for breakfast or brunch as they close at 2pm most days! With the tassel-fringed umbrellas and photogenic loaded toasts, Arvo is definitely one of the most instagrammable spots in Oahu!

They’ve recently opened up their own establishment at the SALT at Kakaako, and I’m so proud of them! The first time we visited they were sharing a space with a super cute little plant shop, but now — they’re got their very own coffee shop! Be sure to look around; there’s tons of colorful murals around here!

4. Olive & Oliver

Located in the SurfJack Hotel, Olive & Oliver is not only the hippest coffee spot we found in Oahu, but the barista was super sweet and I loved all the merch in the boutique!

Quite possibly the most instagrammable coffee shop in all of Oahu! And yes, I went here for their cute cups — their branding is so on point! I need me some of that pineapple wallpaper for my house! Don’t worry — the coffee is actually really tasty, too (ask for some latte art)! It’s super unassuming from the outside, but as soon as you enter, voila!

If you want more coffee in cute cups (no shame), head on over to Island Vintage Coffee.

5. Matsumoto Shave Ice

Matsumotos is always a fan favorite and never disappoints (there’s a line, always, for a reason!). If you wanna take a photo of your shave ice, do it fast! After a few minutes the whole thing will be a big mush and get all sticky all over the place. Take a photo with your shave ice on the green lawn — I always eat mine too fast to be bothered! Some travel blogger I am, right? :p 

6. Rainbow Drive-In

The exterior, while at first glance seems kinda boring, if you look a bit closer, you’ll notice the entire facade is rainbow covered! It may be kinda hard to take a decent photo here since the sign and best rainbow spot is in a parking lot, but just be safe and you’ll get the shot.

Oh, and don’t forget to order a plate lunch — we love the pork combo the best!

7. The Sunrise Shack

I’m sure you’ve seen photos of the iconic Sunrise Shack of the North Shore, and if you haven’t, well, here ya go! Come here for breakfast — just expect to eat with a lot of chickens (they don’t bother you, they just hang out)!

This little spot has been on my Hawaii bucket list for way too long! And I’m glad to say it exceeded all my expectations. My açaí bowl was absolute perfection on a sunny morning— complete with organic honey and homemade dragon fruit sauce. The bullet coffee was seriously the best.

8. Hideout at the Laylow 

Even if you’re not staying at the Laylow Hotel, you’ve gotta head to Hideout for breakfast/coffee one morning. Be sure to take your food to the open lanai setting overlooking Kuhio Avenue (a fun name for outdoor patio) — it’s an instagrammers dream come true.

They actually serve all morning, noon and night, but if you’re here for the photos (no judgement), make sure to come when it’s light out! We had breakfast here one morning, then came back for happy hour!

The interior design of the entire hotel (including the bar and outdoor area) is top notch. The way all the materials blend together so well, their pretty tiled tables, the deep teal cushions and rattan chairs. Can you tell I’m just a sucker for their branding and style?! Even their coffee menu is super cool and trendy!

9. Raised by the Waves

OMG this little spot in Kahuku was soooo good (and I was honestly a bit surprised considering it’s 100% veggie/vegan). While the whole menu looked amazing, I opted for keiki almond butter toast with sliced bananas, honey, and cinnamon. The presentation was just phenomenal, and I took way too many photos. 

I can already see a whole photo shoot happening over here with all the plants and outdoor seating. The whole location really is a work of art.

10. Banan Waikiki Beach Shack

Come here for açaí banana ice cream in a papaya boat or half pineapple — they’re by far the most instagrammable items they’ve got. What’s so great about Banan besides the atmosphere and super cool concept? The fact that the ice cream isn’t ice cream at all! It’s made purely from banana puree, but honestly, you’d never know — especially loaded with toppings! And the sweet treat is completely all natural and dairy free! 

And even better — Banan is located in a surfboard-lined alley, so there’ll always be that perfect backdrop for your photo.

11. Hawaiian Crown Plantation

Where to find the best pineapples on all of Oahu?! At the Hawaiian Crown Plantation of course. Not only is the shop super cute, but they have the most amazing smoothie bowls — with tons of fresh pineapple!

Definitely order an acai bowl to share (they’re huge) and some fresh pineapple juice! We brought ours to the beach for a little picnic one afternoon and had the best time!

12. Haleiwa Joe’s – Haiku Gardens Restaurant

Want phenomenal food and even better views? Haleiwa Joe’s (in Haiku Gardens) is your answer! We’ve even spent my birthday here one year! You’ll feel like you’re eating dinner in Jurassic Park! Definitely get the prime rib if it isn’t sold out (it’s popular for a reason!), as well as lilikoi creme brulee for dessert.

My recommendation: Go on the earlier side, put your name down, and walk around the gardens while you wait for your table. Always request a table overlooking the garden. It’s even more spectacular if you time it right and eat as the sun’s setting (although it sets behind the mountain, but the colors are still gorgeous).

13. Jewel or Juice / Lanikai Juice

Hawaii is known for their delicious (and gorgeous) acai bowls, and Oahu follows suits! If you’re looking for that deep purple color, order a bowl with original acai as the base. Loving the look of the pink? That’s pitaya (dragonfruit)! 

Both are absolutely delicious and I’d be hard pressed to pick a favorite! The way the fruit and toppings are arranged oh so perfectly just make them hard NOT to photograph! With that being said, these two spots are some of the best instagram spots in Oahu for foodies!

Instagrammable Hotels in Oahu

1. The Royal Hawaiian

Ohhhh — the ultimate pink paradise, right in the heart of Honolulu! I’m sure you’ve seen photos of it before! The Royal Hawaiian‘s even been nicknamed the Pink Palace of the Pacific — and it’s easy to see why! 

Although we’ve never stayed, we’ve wandered the grounds, snuck a peek at the (gorgeous) pool area, had a few mai tais at the bar (super instagrammable with it’s massive pink umbrellas), and even indulged in pineapple scones for breakfast one morning. To say we’re dying to stay here is a massive understatement! It’s a little pricey so would make for a perfect birthday or anniversary trip!

There’s photo ops all over, but I particularly like the views from the grass out back as well as the arched windows near the bakery. The pool area is super cute, too! Make sure to add this to your list of best places to take photos in Oahu, especially if you’re in the mood for a mai tai or two!

2. The Laylow Waikiki

I’d been wanting to stay at The Laylow Waikiki ever since I saw my first photo of it. With it’s mid-century modern decor and printed leafy wallpaper, I knew it had my name written all over it. We stayed here this year to celebrate my birthday, and I can honestly say it’s the urban oasis I definitely thought it’d be! And it’s super photogenic — like every square inch of it.

While the entire hotel screams “photograph me please!”, I found the top photo spots at the Laylow to be: 

• hula girls behind reception
• swinging rattan chairs next to Hideout Coffee
• monstera leaf wallpaper in the hotel rooms
• entire outdoor bar and lounge area
• lounge chairs in the pool

But like I said, the entire boutique hotel is basically one big instagram story waiting to happen. I could have photographed The Laylow Waikiki for hours (much to my husband’s dismay).

3. Shoreline Hotel Waikiki

Looking for pops of color?! The Shoreline Hotel Waikiki’s got it! Even it’s outside entrance is covered in such bold colors (with a beautiful ombre effect), making it one of the best photo spots on Oahu! There’s quirky decor (like leafy curtains and a neon aloha sign), colorful artwork, and couches in every color you can think of!

Psst — you don’t need to stay here to get a photo for the ‘gram. I sauntered into the lobby and took photos, no problem!

And ohhh — the pool area (for guests only, of course) looks like a rainbow threw up on it! Any instagram husbands’ nightmare (haha)!

So there ya have it — the best Oahu instagram spots! Hope this helped give you some inspiration next time you’re visiting the island!

The post 43 Oahu Instagram Spots: All the Best Places to Take Pictures in Oahu appeared first on A Passion and A Passport.

I’m a huge lover of Hawaii. I  just can’t get enough of the islands.

We’ve visited all but The Big Island numerous times (that’s on our agenda for next year), and I feel like I’ve got the Hawaiian lifestyle down. I’m even learning how to perfect my own acai bowl and am contemplating taking ukulele lessons!

I want you to enjoy the area as much as I do, and with that, comes the over abundance of delicious Maui must-eats! I have many favorite dishes and restaurants on the Hawaiian island, so read on, enjoy, and prepare to leave reading with a hungry stomach!

What is travel without trying the local foods? With such a large bounty of fresh tropical ingredients and many incredible places to eat on the island of Maui, it can be hard to decide where to dine during your visit to paradise.

Whether this is your first time to Maui or your fifth and regardless of your reason to visit, at some point you will probably be wondering where are the best places to eat in Maui.

If you want the best spots to eat on Maui from budget to 5-star, this list of 20+ must eats will not leave you disappointed. Each of these restaurants all bring something special to your plate and you will be absolutely amazed at the variety of foods to select from.

Island Hopping in Hawaii: Planning on doing some island hopping? Check out these additional resources:

• The Perfect 5 Day Oahu Itinerary
• Things to do on Oahu’s North Shore
• 3 Days in Kauai (well worth a few days!)
• Things to do in Paia, Maui
• The Best Snorkeling Spots in Maui
• Driving the Road to Hana (Maui)
• 10 Days in Hawaii (ultimate island-hopping resource)
• The Ultimate Hawaii Bucket List 
• 25+ Places to Eat in Oahu (foodies trip, anyone?!)

And now, what you’ve been waiting for, the best places to eat in Maui! The food we discovered on this gorgeous Hawaiian island was a delicious blend of hearty, flavorful meals with lots of seafood and pork. Restaurants ranged from road-side fruit stands to expensive fine dining.  

Don’t blame me if you purchase a ticket to Hawaii and have a grumbling stomach before finishing!  Enjoy ?

Where to Eat in Maui (All the Best Spots)

Gazebo Restaurant Maui

Quite possibly my favorite hidden gem in all of Maui.  My sister-in-law recommended this place to us, and for good reason!  I had no idea the line would be super, super, super long, but it was well worth the wait.  

*Do not come here hungover or starving- the line moves rather fast though. Make sure to order the white chocolate macadamia nut pancakes, and a large fried rice – two things they are known for.

The portions are HUGE, and the fried rice alone feeds four people (we finished ours at the airport before heading to Kauai).  Located at the Napili Shores hotel, the views from both the poolside area and the seating area were breathtaking.

Come here for breakfast or lunch, as they are only open until 3pm I believe.

Aloha Mixed Plate

A casual multi-award-winning, outdoor restaurant right along the ocean of Lahaina’s famous Front Street. They are open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. They even have a nice little happy hour.

All of their food is delicious, as well as their drinks. Start with a plate of their coconut shrimp to share and wash them down with Sassy Wahines and Lava Flows. Then finish it off with a large plate of kaluha pork, lomi lomi salmon, lau lau, Hawaiian style mac salad, poi, rice, and haupia (Hawaiian coconut pudding).

Be sure to give yourself plenty of time to just sit back and chill for a bit because you will need it after a meal like that.

Lahaina Grill

A special restaurant for a special occasion (pretty pricey).  Located in Lahaina (well, duh, obviously, you could have told me that :p), it’s a fun way to spend an evening.  

The views from the edge of town are just gorgeous, and we enjoyed watching the sunset before heading over to dinner.  Reservations are a must here.

My husband said the fish was extremely fresh and delicious.  They even took a picture to send to us and gave us a congratulatory card signed by the staff!

Geste Shrimp Truck

You will be hungry when you land on Maui and Geste is just down the road from the airport.The Shrimp Scampi is a favorite. It’s full of flavor with butter and garlic deliciousness.

If you want something sweet and spicy, go for the Spicy Pineapple Shrimp. The Pineapple Shrimp’s sweetness is a nice contrast to the slight heat from the spice. Both are served Hawaiian plate lunch style on a bed of cabbage with a scoop each of rice and crab potato mac salad.

All shrimp plates are served with a dozen large shrimp. The servings are huge and you could very easily share it with another. However, they are so good, you will want your own. The shrimp are cut open to make it super easy to peel the shells off.

Make sure to grab plenty of napkins and something to wash off your hands with.

Kula Lodge

After waking up at 3am to watch the sunrise at Haleakala, you will definitely need a pick me up before driving back to your hotel to rest.  Kula Lodge, located in the slopes of the Haleakala Crater, provides just that.

An informal, quiet, reasonably-priced place for breakfast with phenomenal views of the island due it’s high elevation.  Read some negative reviews on TripAdvisor, but decided to go here anyways, and I enjoyed.

It may have been because I was half sleeping; however, the view and large, fluffy pancakes alone made it worth it.

Haliimaile General Store

Not a store, but a full restaurant. You will find HGA in Upcountry Maui in the tiny town of Haliimaile, (pronounced ha-lee-ee-MY-lay).

The food is both beautiful and delicious. The service is another story, but if you go knowing you are going for the food and not the bad service it should be worth the drive out there.

No matter what, get the Sashimi Napoleon. With layers of Ahi tartare, smoked salmon, sashimi ahi, crispy wonton stack and wasabi vinaigrette it is out of this world. Definitely should be included on any list of where to eat in Maui, that’s for sure!

Maui Tacos

 My husband forgot his button downs at home (surprise surprise), so we ventured to the mall one night after a full day out exploring the island.  Too hungry to wait until we got closer to our resort, we ate at the food court.  Yup, the food court.  I’m pretty easy to please.  And when we stumbled upon Maui Tacos, I was glad he forgot those shirts at home after all. *Photo provided by Maui Tacos.

Teddy’s Bigger Burgers

This isn’t your traditional burger place. Giant portions, creative burgers, sinful cheese fries are just the very tip of the iceberg. If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind dining experience in Maui, skip Teddy’s Big Burgers.

But if delicious fast-food burgers are your thing, you’ve come to the right place! Try the Cajun Burger- my absolute favorite! Hoping this chain makes it’s way to the mainland soon!

Jawz

Who knew Mexican-Hawaiian fusion could be so good? Jawz serves nachos, burritos, quesadillas, and more. But, it’s their fish tacos that you are going to want to try. You can grab some of their tacos at two locations on Maui. The best being their taco truck parked daily near Big Beach. You can also catch them in Kihei with a deluxe salsa bar.

Mama’s Fish House

There’s a reason that Mama’s is called the best restaurant in Hawaii. Is it the beautiful oceanfront open air dining or basking in the warm glow of the Maui sunshine that makes Mama’s so incredible?

Could it be Mama’s exquisite cuisine artfully prepared and orchestrated to perfection in every bite? Or maybe it is the constant special attention that’s been given on every visit.

Of course, it’s all of these along with the people of Mama’s Fish House that go above and beyond perfection with their desire to make you feel right at home.

Sansei Sushi

This restaurant is home to some of Maui’s favorite sushi. Take your pick from sushi topped with mangoes, shrimp cakes, or miso-marinated butterfish.

There is always a crowd at Sansei’s, day and night, people patiently waiting to sample some of the restaurant’s amazing sushi. Their menu is filled with so many great dishes, it’s hard to choice.

You can’t do wrong with the Panko Crusted Ahi Sashimi Sushi maki, Sansei Shrimp Dynamite, and the Seared Ahi Salad. With locations on both the South and West Shores and happy hour on both Sunday and Monday for 50% off all sushi and appetizers, there’s no reason to miss Sansei Sushi.

Attend a Luau

The Old Lahaina Luau Maui: Being the most authentic luau in the Hawaiian Islands, Old Lahaina Luau doesn’t mess around when it comes to their food.

The bountiful buffet of regional cuisine has enough variety to satisfy everyone’s palates starting with the kalua pig they unearth at the beginning of the evening.

Make sure to leave room for the dessert platter they bring you just before the full entertainment starts. The chocolate dessert cups with lilikoi mouse inside are the best.

The Feast at Lele:  A little less well-known, but just as delicious and entertaining as The Old Lahaina Luau.  This festive, high-end luau takes place right on the beach off the main street of Lahaina.  

You’ll sip tropical cocktails and savor traditional Polynesian food as you watch a live Polynesian music and dance show, with a gorgeous Hawaiian sunset as your backdrop.

Note: Both luau’s are likely to sell-out weeks in advance! Book ahead of time to avoid disappointment and to get your desired choice of seating.  Book and read reviews below:

Can’t decide between the Old Lahaina Luai vs The Feast at Lele? Check out this post, it’ll help make your decision that much easier.  We chose the Feats at Lele >> see why.

Island Style Tacos: BBQ place on the road to Hana

 I had originally planned for us to venture off to some other place (totally forgot the name!) for lunch along the Road to Hana, but we got hungry earlier than expected. And I’m so glad we did!

The Kalua Pork tacos were my favorite, and the husband said the fish tacos exceeded his expectations.  Definitely a great stop!

Plus, it’s easy to find and you’ll able to view (and buy if you want) the gorgeous handmade bowls and other items made out of fresh palm leaves.  Located in the NaHiku Marketplace.

Ululani’s Shave Ice

There is more than one place to get shave ice on Maui, but the only place we recommend is Ululani’s.

Their ice shave is so fine, cones massive, and they have more flavors than any place we have ever been to. Li Hing Mui (salted plum) is my all-time favorite. They even put a little Li Hing Mui powder on top for a little extra kick.

A popular flavor with travelers is Tiger’s Blood with a snow cap. No matter what flavor you get, you will love it. If you don’t have enough flavoring, let them know and they will add some more free of charge.

Make sure to stop into one of Ululani’s two Lahaina locations or in their Kahului and Kihei locations.

Leilani’s at the Beach

A beautiful location, ask for a table overlooking the beach.  For the absolute best views, make your reservation a little before sunset.  You’ll be able to watch the sun descend below the ocean while eating your meat and fish.  Don’t leave without ordering some Hula Pie, my absolute favorite thing in all of Hawaii (besides the Kalua Pork!)

5 Palms

There’s no where more perfect to spend your last morning on Maui then at Five Palms in Kihei. With their beachfront location it’s perfect for your final breakfast in paradise.

Sit out on the lanai and start off your meal with one of their lovely tropical mimosas. Order the Hawaiian Sweet Bread French Toast topped with straberries, white chocolate chips, and crystallized ginger for the best Hawaiian French Toast you will ever taste

Aunty Sandy’s

Not your average road-side fruit stand, this offers so much more.  Kalua pig, freshly baked banana bread, and most probably the largest shave ice you’ll find on the island.  

A small little gem on the Keane Peninsula while on the Road to Hana.  However, there are no signs from the main road, so put it in your GPS beforehand.

808 Deli

This is one of those places you will randomly come across while walking along South Kihei Road and you will be glad that you did. They have a great selection of sandwiches, including paninis and salads.

Recommendations will lean you towards the Southern Squealer of pulled pork, Hawaiian BBQ sauce and cheddar cheese topped with coleslaw on a roll with a side of Maui onion potato chips and potato mac salad. Your mouth will thank you for it.

The post 10 Must Eat Places on Maui: A Foodies Guide to The Island appeared first on A Passion and A Passport.

If you’re in the mood for indie galleries, surf shops, scenic sunsets, and Hawaiian plate-lunches, you’ll definitely wanna spend a few days on Oahu’s North Shore. We just came back from Oahu, and loved every laidback minute of it! Ohhh I’m still dreaming of the powerful waves, pineapple dole whip, delicious food trucks, and Hawaiian green sea turtles! There’s a reason the North Shore is a haven for surfers, beach bums, artists, and tourists alike!

Most people spend the majority of their time in Honolulu and Waikiki. And while I do love these areas, — don’t be like the typical tourist! I highly encourage you to get outta the city and add other parts of the island to your Oahu itinerary, making sure to thoroughly explore the North Shore of Oahu! The landscapes are breathtaking, the people are more than welcoming, and it’s overall just super easy-going! You’ve just got to go!

→ Psst: Looking for a similar freeing feeling on Maui? Make sure to check out the hippy town of Paia on the North Shore of Maui!

North Shore of Oahu Logistics

Where is the North Shore of Oahu?

This may come as a surprise, but the North Shore isn’t just one town in Oahu. It’s a whole series of neighborhoods and beaches along the northern and northwestern coasts of the island. However, when people say they’re going to the North Shore, they typically mean they’re headed to one of a few spots: Haleiwa Town, the Dole Plantation (on the way), or one of the legendary surf beaches between Kahuku and Haleiwa.

If you look on a map of Oahu’s North Shore (and for the purposes of this article), the area between Ka’ena Point State Park and Kahana Bay Beach Park is what I consider Oahu’s North Shore. 

How to Get to the North Shore 

If you’re staying in Waikiki or Downtown Honolulu (like most visitors do), there’ll be two main ways to get to the North Shore:

1. The more direct, inland route (45 minutes straight to Haleiwa)
2. The out-of-the-way but much more scenic coastal route (1 ½ hours along the coast)

As noted, you could technically drive along the coast, but that’ll take roughly double the time. It sure is the scenic option though! If you’ve only got a day dedicated to the North Shore, I recommend making a beeline right to Haleiwa. However, if you’re staying a night (or two, like us!), take the (much more) scenic Kamehameha Highway for lots of ocean views, almost-empty stretches of sand, and beach swings!

No car? Don’t fret. You can easily get to the main town of Haleiwa by public transit via TheBus, although expect it to take between 1.5-2 hours. Hop on the #52 bus departing at the Ala Moana Center.

When to Visit Oahu’s North Shore

Like the rest of Hawaii, there’s really no terrible time to visit the North Shore. While winter brings the most rain, it hardly rains consecutive days in a row unless there’s a major storm. Typically, it only rains for a bit then clears up! Expect lots and lots of rainbows! One of the best things about Hawaii in winter!

Oh, and summer? Near perfect weather! All the time!

When you go will kinda determine your water activities on the North Shore. But both times of year are recommended for different reasons:

• Winter: Wanna watch pro surfers ride waves larger than you’ve ever seen before? Come during the winter! Surfers from around the world come for the huge swells! With this being said, if you’re looking to lay out and float around, you’ll need to head to a different part of the island for this from November – February/March-ish. 

• Summer: The waters are much more calm, meaning they’re way more suitable for swimming and snorkeling in the summer! Plus, when it’s low tide, you can even go searching for creatures in the tide pools!

How Long to Spend Here 

Honestly, it’s all up to you! On our first few visits to Oahu, we chose to simply visit the North Shore as a day trip from Honolulu. 

On our last trip, we decided to split it up and spent 2 nights on the North Shore and 3 nights in Waikiki. We wanted to be able to explore the area much more in depth than we had in the past. And our verdict? We loved it!

Some people even choose to spend their entire time on the island on the North Shore of Oahu — they just love it that much! And I can honestly see why — It’s got such a cool, laid back vibe. While I highly encourage you to check out other spots on the island, definitely spend some time on the North Shore as well!

→ Read Next: The PERFECT 5 Days in Oahu (the only itinerary you’ll need, promise!)

One Day on the North Shore of Oahu: If you’ve only got one day allotted to the North Shore on your Oahu itinerary, here’s how I think you should spend your time! I’ve included all my favorite spots here.

• Quick stop at the Dole Plantation on your way to the North Shore for Dole Whip and a look around 
• Wander the tropical gardens of Waimea Valley (bring your bathing suit for a quick dip in the waterfall!)
• Get some shrimp for lunch at one of the many food trucks in Haleiwa (recommendations include Haleiwa Seafood, Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck, and Jenny’s Shrimp Truck).
• Walk around Haleiwa Town, stopping in the little shops and getting some shave ice at Matsumoto’s
• Beach time at either Waimea Bay, Sunset Beach, Sharks Cove, or Laniakea Beach (there’s usually turtles resting here!)
• Drinks at Roy’s Beach House or Haleiwa Beach House for sunset

Where to Stay 

Unfortunately, there’s not tons to choose from if you’re looking for a typical hotel or resort-style accommodation. The Marriott Courtyard North Shore is the less expensive option (where we stayed), although I suggest booking a night or two at Turtle Bay Resort if you’re celebrating a special occasion (or just want a swanky spot to stay!). 

And plus, Turtle Bay is where Forgetting Sarah Marshall was filmed, sooooo fans are kinda obligated to stay there, haha (any movie buffs out there). I would have LOVED to check out the resort (one of my fave activities), but Turtle Bay was closed for renovations/undergoing massive upgrades when we visited the area! It’s since been long finished and ready for your arrival!

A Note on AirBnbs in Oahu

We used to LOVE staying in AirBnbs — up until kinda recently honestly. For quite a few reasons, actually:

• The fees have become astronomical. A cleaning fee. A host fee. A myriad of other fees. Once you add them all up, that inexpensive Airbnb stay isn’t so cheap anymore. I’ve seen stays double in price due to fees.

• The cancellation policies are not clear. Hardly ever. They’re actually super confusing! In this day and age, we only book accommodation we can cancel super easily without penalties. I’ve even messaged Airbnb hosts to confirm cancellation polices and they’ve said the ones on their page are not correct? Hmm… that sounds super tricky to me.

• Managed by non-locals. Most (not all) Oahu Airbnb properties are managed by people on the mainland — not Hawaii itself. 

With all this being said, I recommend staying in a hotel instead. This is what we’ve been doing for all our recent trips. By doing so, you’re actually supporting the local economy! Think of all the locals who work in hotels — from the management and front desk staff to the cleaning staff and kitchen staff. These people rely on jobs in Oahu itself.

If you do feel the need to book an AirBnb (I get it, sometimes it’s the better choice for you and your family), PLEASE find a property that is managed by a local on the island itself. Thank you. ?

So whether this is your first or 15th visit to the island, don’t leave the North Shore of Oahu off your itinerary!

Things to do on Oahu’s North Shore

Obviously, if you’re just visiting for the day, you won’t get to everything on this list. Pick and choose your favorite things to do on the North Shore — lots of ideas here! Just make sure you save some time for eating; there’s soooo much good food on this part of the island!

Activities on the North Shore of Oahu

Walk Around Haleiwa Town: No visit to the North Shore is complete without a wander around historic Haleiwa Town. It’s full of local style and country ambiance, and just so fun to walk around!

A little history because it’s honestly kinda interesting: Haleiwa dates all the way back to the 1900s (yes, it’s been around a while!) and was an integral part of the sugar plantation industry. It once was a quaint little plantation town, and the architecture actually still resembles that from the early 1900s.

Later on in 1984, it was designated a State Historic, Cultural, and Scenic District. This means that any new construction must adhere to super strict specs in order to preserve the town, which is why you’ll still see lots of paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) styled buildings.

Now?! It’s definitely up-and-coming, if not already discovered! There’s lots of good shopping here, from local boutiques and trendy surf shops (the largest being the popular Surf N Sea) to art galleries and spots with authentic (and affordable!) Hawaiian-made gifts. Don’t miss Polu Gallery, a small, laid-back gallery featuring local surf art. I loved shopping for a few prints to bring back home.

Hungry? Haleiwa’s got you. The town is home to a wide variety of restaurants, bars, cafes — with a lot of options! Think casual like Hawaiian plate lunches and açaí bowls, as well as more sophisticated venues like Haleiwa Joes or Jameson’s.

→ Psst: Haleiwa is pronounced hah-lay-EE-wah, so be sure to put the stress on the e!

Waimea Valley Park: Don’t have time to head to Maui to drive the famed Road to Hana? If you’re looking for lushness, tropical plants, and a waterfall to swim in, you’ll love Waimea Valley Park just as much! I mean, the park is 1,800 acres so there’s lots and lots to see (making it well worth the $20 admission fee)! 

Plan to explore lots of archeological sites, a world-class botanical garden, and even a natural rain-fed 45 foot waterfall with a swimming hole! You can even learn about Native Hawaiians and their way of life. All in all, super stunning gardens and a beautiful history! We unfortunately got here too late in the day to swim, so decided to save this spot for next time (the ticket booth closes at 4, with the last waterfall swim around 3:30pm).

Watch the surfers at Banzai Pipeline, Sunset Beach, and/or Waimea Bay: Visiting Oahu’s North Shore in winter? Make sure to spend an afternoon at the beach watching the pro surfers at the Surfing Capital of the World (kinda beats out Surf City in Huntington Beach). And Banzai is legendary, with it’s perfect barreling waves and pro-surfers. 

Banzai Pipeline, Sunset Beach, and Waimea Bay are known as the “8 miracle mile”, seeing swells ranging anywhere from 2 to FORTY feet! Whoaaaa — definitely only for the super-experienced surfer. Don’t even think about practicing here in winter (the waves are dangerous and HUGE!). 

We’re not surfers (by any means — I even smashed my nose SUPing before), but it was exhilarating to experience the winter swells from the sand! 

Take a surf lesson: Jealous of all the pros and wanna get on a board yourself? It’s the surfing capital of the world! Of course there’s surfing lessons on the North Shore! And don’t worry — the surf instructors will take you to surf spots more suitable for beginners, with smaller and much easier waves. Check out North Shore Surf Girls and the North Shore Oahu Surf School to learn how to stand up on a board!

Dole Plantation: I’m sorry, but can you really visit the North Shore of Oahu without at least stopping at the Dole Plantation for a dole whip? Nope — not possible. What’s dole whip you ask? Quite possibly the most refreshing thing! Dole Whip is basically pineapple soft-serve, and it’s heaven on a hot day.

This pineapple plantation is easily one of my favorite places on the way to the North Shore, and that’s not just because I love all things pineapple.

There’s no chance of getting bored here, with train rides, garden tours, and endless pineapple food available (like I said — dole whip!). There’s even a pineapple maze. Yes, you heard that right, a giant pineapple maze with pineapple shaped hedges! Kinda kitschy but definitely a good time. 

Polynesian Cultural Center: Entertaining performances, pottery and ukulele classes, and rich, cultural history, all within 8 simulated tropical villages. It’s essentially a Polynesian-themed theme park and living museum. Kinda like the Hawaiian equivalent of Downtown Disney! Part-entertainment, and part-learning experience. If you’ve ever wondered about Polynesia, you’ll love visiting the different “islands” at the cultural center. 

You’ll learn so much here — like how to start a fire using only wood and why there’s always a pig served at every luau. Honestly, you can stay all day, but definitely get the Luau package with dinner and show, “Ha: Breath of Life”. I’ve heard there’s no words for it (it’s that spectacular).

Psst: If you’re staying at The Marriott Courtyard North Shore, you’ll be less than a 10 minute WALK away, so you gotta go — no excuses. I’m still kicking myself we didn’t make time for this!

Stand Up Paddling on the Anahulu River: While walking around Haleiwa, you’ll undoubtedly cross a white wooden-looking bridge. That’s the Anahulu Stream Bridge with the Anahulu Stream (river) underneath! We saw a bunch of people SUPing on the river and it looked like SO much fun. 

There’s no waves, making it much easier for a beginner (as opposed to where we learned in the Pacific Ocean in Kauai). You’ll still need to work on your balance and you will work your core (making for a great workout!). There’s plenty of places to rent a SUP on the North Shore, but Surf N Sea is a popular choice because it’s so close to the river and you can even schedule an intro lesson if you feel you need it.

Skydiving: If you’ve ever had the dream of skydiving, what better place to do it than in freaking Hawaii?! We went skydiving at the Pacific Skydiving Center for my 30th birthday, and I still cannot believe we CHOSE to jump out of a perfectly-working plane. Sounds kinda crazy when I think about it, but I figured I should conquer my biggest fear (at the time). Thankfully, my husband came along with me for moral support (and to get in a jump of his own!). 

Although my tandem instructor had to literally push me off the plane, I still had an absolute blast. I mean, the aerial views of the North Shore were absolutely epic! You can even see the beaches from the sky. 

Be prepared to wait a bit, as weather conditions need to be PERFECT to ensure safety. We chose to jump from 14,000 feet, but you’ve got the option for 10,000 feet as well (it’s a bit cheaper but you get less of that free-fall feeling).

Shark Cage Diving: Ever wanna snorkel face to face with thrilling sharks but too scared to do it in open water (like us crazies did in Bora Bora)? That’s where cage diving comes in! You’ll be snorkeling in a floating metal cage surrounded by the sharks in their natural environment on all sides! Galapagos sharks are most commonly seen (that’s what we saw!), but tiger sharks and even whale sharks have been spotted here! 

We went shark cage diving on our latest trip to Oahu (for my 34th birthday actually!), and it was by far the coolest thing we did the whole week! And yes, we felt extremely safe. If you visit in winter like us, you may even see a few humpback whales on the way as well! 

Book your shark cage diving tour here (book early — they sell out!)

If you have a choice, pick the earliest tour (starting around 7am or so), as this is when the water is at its calmest (before the water gets too rough and choppy). We took some dramamine because we heard the ride out to the dive site can be kinda rough, but I didn’t think it was so bad at all. I’m sure it depends on the day though. Another benefit to the early tour — you’ll get to watch the sunrise out on the water! Truly epic. 

‘Ehukai Pillbox Hike: For the record, we chose to spend our time relaxing and eating (hey — what’s wrong with that?), so didn’t get to the ‘Ehukai Pillbox hike on the North Shore. If you go, lemme know how it was! 

I heard the pillbox hike is relatively short at 3 miles roundtrip, but it’s quite steep. You’ll pass by a bunch of WWII “pillbox” bunkers on the way up, and get rewarded with picturesque North Shore views at the summit. What could be better (besides some shave ice and poke on a hot Hawaiian day?). 

Best Beaches on the North Shore

It’s important to note that the beaches have super strong currents and waves in the winter, so you’ll wanna stay extra alert and use caution whenever even going near the ocean. You absolutely should not be swimming when the tide is rough, as it’s downright dangerous and people have been swept away to sea. Be safe and use your judgement! Never turn your back on the ocean — you never know what’s coming next! 

There’s a whole slew of beaches along the coast, but these are the ones we visited (and we loved them all)!

Haleiwa Beach Park: If you’re looking to actually get in the water in the winter, this is the place to be. Since there’s a jetty here, the water is typically calmer. We loved strolling the beach, and noticed there’s a few tables at the north end of the park which would be perfect for picnics overlooking the sand and ocean. And plus, there’s a huge lot so parking is super easy.

Laniakea Beach: After 8 trips to Hawaii and 3 trips to Oahu, I finally saw the green Hawaiian sea turtles resting on Laniakea Beach! To say I was excited is a complete understatement! 

If they’re out and about they’ll likely be a rope around them urging visitors not to get too close (as well as volunteers to answer all your burning turtle questions!). If you are lucky enough to see them, be sure to keep your distance. It’s a federal offense here in Hawaii to go near honus (sea turtles), and you don’t wanna not be welcomed back!

Remember — sea turtles are living creatures so seeing them is never guaranteed! I heard they typically visit the beach in the late morning/early afternoon, but I’m not too sure how accurate that is. For the record, I’m pretty sure we visited around 1pm or so. Look closely as they kinda blend in with the large rocks on the sand!

Waimea Bay: Being clean, spacious, and downright beautiful, it’s easy to see why Waimea Bay is one of the best beaches on the North Shore of Oahu! We came here multiple nights to watch the sunset, and never left disappointed! Bring a few POG-flavored Maui hard seltzers and you’re in for a good time (please be respectful and stay welllll under your limit).

Beware though — the waves can be MASSIVE in the winter, so don’t necessarily come here to swim if the swells look large. Waimea Bay is one of the spots for the high profile surfing competitions, and the currents can be extremely dangerous if you’re not a SUPER experienced surfer/swimmer.

If no ones in the water except pro surfers, do yourself a favor and stay safe on the sand. In the summer when the waters much calmer, you might even see people jumping off the large rocks surrounding the bay!

Shark’s Cove: Bring your snorkel gear, because this is the place to do it on the North Shore! We came here three times and we loved it so much! I mean, look at the photos — the whole area is downright GORGEOUS! Such a difference to the other beaches in the area. There’s a little hut across the street where you can rent snorkels if you don’t have your own. 

But even if you don’t snorkel here, you can typically find small schools of fish swimming near the shore just by wading in a few feet! We heard someone even saw an eel with just their feet in!

Banzai Pipeline: We came here to watch the surfers one afternoon, and WHOAAA. I honestly couldn’t believe my eyes. They were standing up on the most insane and powerful waves!

Others obviously had the same idea, as there were a bunch of people sitting on the sand with their eyes peeled to the water. Such an experience. If you’re visiting in the winter, don’t miss it! Bring some Ted’s Pie to make it extra sweet! :p

Sunset Beach: 2 miles of pure bliss — what could be better? But really though, don’t miss this spot! Like Waimea Bay and Banzai Pipeline, the waves are towering so be EXTRA careful and use caution in the winter. As its name suggests, it’s also a great spot to watch the sunset! We walked along the beach a bit after scarfing down our acai from The Sunrise Shack — the beach is right across the street!

Where to Eat on the North Shore of Oahu

There’s SO much good food on the North Shore, hence why this section is almost as long as the others! Don’t miss the food trucks — they’re SO good. Important tip: always look for trucks that specialize in one thing; that’s how you know their food is cooked to perfection.

Shave Ice, Pie, and other snacks

Matsumoto Shave Ice: You can’t visit the North Shore (and Oahu in general) without some shave ice! Psst — it’s SHAVE ice, never shaveD ice. ? Matsumotos is always a fan favorite and never disappoints (there’s a line, always, for a reason!).

While there’s tons of flavors to choose from (plus lots of combos and exotics), ALWAYS opt for some ice cream and condensed milk on top! It’s been around for around 70 years, so you know it’s good!

Aoki’s Shave Ice: Some say Aoki’s is better than Matusomoto’s. Anyone down for a taste test? I won’t tell!! And they’re just across the street from each other! People say the syrups taste better because they’re all naturally made — Aoki’s is apparently where all the locals go! I’m headed there next time I’m on the North Shore.

Uncle’s Ice Cream Sandwiches: Ultra-premium ice cream sandwiches made in Hawaii itself? And there’s lots of flavors to choose from (including special flavors like banana bread and cookie butter fudge).

Psst — they’re sold in select ABC stores and other markets (like Cooke Street in Kakaako!) around the island, so if you’re headed to Honolulu later on in your trip and didn’t make it the location on the North Shore, don’t fret!

Ted’s Bakery: Mmmm, pie anyone?! Ted’s also sells cakes, breads, and pastries, but they’re well-known for their absolutely orgasmic cream pies. ALWAYS get the chocolate haupia cream pie. Promise me that! There’s also plate lunches and garlic shrimp, but we just go for the pie. :p

The fact that it’s family owned and operated makes it that much sweeter (do your part to support local small businesses!).

Honestly, don’t worry if the actual bakery is closed; Foodland sells individual pieces of Ted’s pie (look for the label) and they are just as delicious. We decided one night around 5pm we NEEDED some pie so grabbed some at Foodland to bring to the beach (along with some POG-flavored Maui hard seltzer).

Island Fresh: The cutest little juice shop right on Kamehameha Hwy in Haleiwa. They also sell acai bowls and bowls of classic Hawaiian fruit (all farm to bowl!). Unfortunately we missed this spot, but I’ll be getting a daydreamin’ bowl and an island fresh smoothie on our next visit. 

Psst: there used to be a Wow Wow Lemonade around here, but it’s since been permanently closed (boo!).

Coffee and Breakfast

The Sunrise Shack: This little spot has been on my Hawaii bucket list for way too long! And I’m glad to say it exceeded all my expectations. My açaí bowl was absolute perfection on a sunny morning— complete with organic honey and homemade dragon fruit sauce. The bullet coffee was seriously the best.

We ate on the patio at the original location near Sunset Beach, but they’ve just recently opened up another location near Sharks Cove too! Just don’t feed the chickens (they’re all over the North Shore). There’s also a smaller Sunrise Shack in Waikiki if you need your fix before/after you head up to the North Shore. 

Island Vintage Coffee: Yes, there’s locations all around the island, but a cuppa caffeine never disappoints (especially in the morning). It’s in the same little shopping area (Haleiwa Shore Lots) as Matsumotos, so kinda hard to miss! They sell bags of 100% Kona coffee, which can sometimes be hard to find if you don’t know where to look. Try an island latte and any of the acai bowls!

Haleʻiwa Bowls: Ohhhh this place is oh so cute — it’s actually a little thatched kiosk with tropical leaves all around! If you’re looking for a good (custom!) acai bowl (or a smoothie or some cold-brew coffee), Hale’iwa Bowls is your place.

We always have such a hard time deciding what to order because we want IT ALL! The Paniolo Bowl with peanut butter hits the spot every time, as does the hibiscus mint cold brew tea (the best!). Plus — you can’t miss it walking on Kamehameha Hwy in Haleiwa town!

Raised by the Waves: OMG this little spot was soooo good (and I was honestly a bit surprised considering it’s 100% veggie/vegan). While the whole menu looked amazing, I opted for keiki almond butter toast with sliced bananas, honey, and cinnamon. 

Whatever you do, don’t leave without a cinnamon macadamia nut cold brew. My husband loved it so much he ordered a refill for the road (despite the $7 price tag)!

Psst — We were staying at The Marriott Courtyard in Laie so it was only a few minutes away from us, but it’ll be a good 25 minutes or so from Haleiwa, just FYI.

Kono’s Northshore – Haleiwa: Known for their bomb breakfast burritos, pulled pork, and milkshakes, don’t expect a light breakfast here! But whatever you do, don’t miss out on their signature Kalua pig in either a famous 12 hour breakfast bomber, sandwich, or plate lunch. AND some fresh pineapple lemonade. It’s also a great spot for brunch/lunch.

I’ve heard it’s gone somewhat downhill over the years, so hopefully they can make it great again!

Lunch and Dinner Options

North Shore Shrimp Trucks: The North Shore of Oahu is an absolute mecca for garlic shrimp trucks (aka don’t leave without indulging in some!). You simply cannot miss the shrimps! Everyone raves (and raves!) about Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck, but there’s actually a whole bunch on the North Shore!

Other favorites include Jenny’s (the shrimp is on point!) and Camaron’s (go for the garlic butter shrimp)! Can’t go wrong with either! There’s ALWAYS a long line at Giovanni’s (it’s the most well known), so if you’re not down with waiting, choose another option.

Surf N Salsa: Living in California for over 7 years (whoa!), I honestly thought there was no decent Mexican food in Hawaii. But after hearing locals rave about this spot, I’ll definitely eat here next time. We ended up eating at North Shore Tacos and desperately wished we went to Surf N Salsa instead!

KillerTacos: No frills, but go for the kalua pork burrito and/or Alaskan cod fish tacos! Great value and portion sizes for the money. 

Haleiwa Seafood: Don’t miss this food truck! I repeat, don’t miss it! We came here twice during our 2 days on the North Shore — it was that good! We were beyond obsessed with the coconut fish and chips, and my husband loved (LOVED) the fried shrimp! 

Pupukea Grill: If you’re looking for some Hawaiian street eats on the North Shore of Oahu, Pupukea is your spot. Think poke bowls (get the spicy tuna — it’s the best on the island), plate lunches, and other delicious eclectic dishes (like bbq pork quesadillas). Plus, the banana bread is to die for. Worth the drive from Honolulu for the tuna alone!

Haleiwa Joe’s: Although we didn’t eat at this location in Haleiwa itself, we ate at the Haiku Gardens spot. I can promise the food is super fresh and oh so tasty!

Definitely go for some fresh fish (options change depending on what’s caught), and make sure at least someone in your party gets the prime rib. It’s what they’re known for! My husband ordered it and his cut was larger than his head, I swear! Psst — the lilikoi (passion fruit) creme brûlée was spot on as well!

Haleʻiwa Beach House: Go here for drinks and appetizers (pupus) overlooking the beach at sunset! Yes, they’ll be a road in between you and the sea, but you can still see the water. Such a nice ambiance and although we haven’t had the chance to visit yet, we’ve heard the food is great!

Foodland Grocery chain: Yes, it’s a grocery store. But come here for fresh poke! We picked up a poke bowl to watch sunset on the beach one night, and it was absolutely delicious! I think we got lucky because I heard the poke sometimes runs out earlier in the day.

If you wanna guarantee yourself some fresh ahi, plan to grab a bowl for lunch. There’s a whole bunch of Foodlands along the beach, so I promise you you won’t miss it while cruising/walking around. 

Hope this helps you plan out your trip to the North Shore of Oahu! We absolutely loved our trip and I know you’ll enjoy yours too! Just promise me you’ll get some garlic shrimp!

The post The Best Things To Do On the North Shore of Oahu (HUGE Guide + Where to Eat) appeared first on A Passion and A Passport.

While we love checking out the glitzy resorts and designer boutique hotels in Oahu, sometimes an AirBnB is the way to go! AirBnBs in Honolulu are great when you want a more local feel, are traveling with a large family, and/or are staying for an extended length of time. You can usually get way more bang for your buck.

And with all the things to do in Oahu (my perfect 5-day Oahu itinerary here!), you’ll wanna save your pennies for a few extra malasadas and shave ices!

I’ve scoured the internet for the best airbnbs in Honolulu. They’re all so different and unique — make sure to check them out!

Just to note — We typically tend to stay in spots where we get the whole place to ourselves (whether it be a bungalow, apartment, condo, etc). If you’re looking for a private room, you may need to look elsewhere (or just check out your options here!).

Get ready to listen to some Hawaiian music on your own private lanai — we’re heading to Oahu. So let’s get to it — the best Honolulu AirBnbs coming right up!

*All photos in this list of airbnbs in Honolulu are property of AirBnB.

1. Fun and Chic Island Ocean View

Fun and punchy, I honestly wanna stay in this newly remodeled condo in the heart of famous Waikiki next time we visit Oahu. I mean, there’s a pink couch and banana leaf wallpaper. The key to my heart. It’s been recently renovated and is only 2 blocks from the ocean, meaning, you can probably hear the waves from your own private lanai (balcony)! Great local food trucks, restaurants, entertainment, nightlife and island activities all nearby!

Guest Review: “Thoroughly enjoyed the stay at Mariel and Mike’s place. The location is excellent (only a couple of blocks from the beach) and the hosts were nice enough to equip the room with some equipment that we could use to enjoy a day out at the beach. The place also allows for easy access to a ton of chic restaurants, and has public parking in the basement that is priceless if you rent a car for your trip. Would definitely recommend the place to anyone looking for a place in the Waikiki area.” – Praveen

• AirBnB listing: Island Ocean View (read reviews and book)
• Price: $102+ per night
• Location: Waikiki Beach
• Type of Place: Entire Condo
• Beds: 1 Queen Bed + 1 Sofa Bed
• Extra Amenities: Beach towels, umbrella, beach blanket, snorkeling gear

2. Sun Filled Studio Overlooking Diamond Head 

A chic, sun-filled studio that overlooks Diamond Head, Honolulu Zoo Park, and is one block from the world famous Waikiki Beach. What more could you want?! This is one of the best Honolulu Airbnbs by far — and even comes with sundeck access on the tenth floor with  million dollar views and table and chairs. And double bonus — it’s run by a Superhost AND there’s a wall-mounted flat screen TV.

Quest Review: “Great location! You are at the heart of it all. The views from the 10th floor are breathtaking. The place was very nice and stylish. Definitely recommend it!” – Thomas

• AirBnB listing: Sun Filled Studio Overlooking Diamond Head (read reviews and book)
• Price: $250+ per night
• Location: Diamond Head
• Type of Place: Entire Condo
• Beds: 1 King Bed + 1 Sofa Bed

3. Marine Surf Palm Studio

A sophisticated and chic condo with a pool and with it’s own private lanai, within walking distance to the beach. Bonus — there’s free parking! It’s spacious, recently renovated, fully furnished and centrally located just steps away from famous Waikiki Beach. There’s also FREE parking, which is clutch if you’re renting a car. Don’t miss a walk to the beach and the free Hula shows and lively nightlife on Kalakaua Ave. 

Guest Review: “Perfect and comfortable for my fiancé and I! We enjoyed everything here! Started to feel like home. Check in and check out was very easy. I recommend anyone traveling to Oahu to stay here! Very convenient!” – Serieyna

• AirBnB listing: Marine Surf Palm Studio (read reviews and book)
• Price: $130+ per night
• Location: Waikiki Beach
• Type of Place: Entire Condo
• Beds: 1 Queen Bed + 1 Sofa Bed

4. The Grand Experience

This airbnb in Honolulu is completely re-renovated, has an upgraded kitchen, a pool (!!!) and lots of colorful accents to really make you feel like you’re in the tropics. 

It’s the LARGEST space with DOUBLE OCEAN VIEWS in the building!!! What more do you need? Feel that hawaiian fresh air on the two lanais, both with fabulous views. AND the place is extremely close to the beach. Psst — they book out fast (for good reason), so run don’t walk!

Guest Review: “I read a ton of reviews because Airbnb’s can be very tricky, especially on an island! I wanted to make sure the area was very close to the beach, safe, and affordable. If you are in between choosing different Airbnb‘s on Oahu, I would definitely recommend this place.” – Monica

• AirBnB listing: The Grand Experience (read reviews and book)
• Price: $150+ per night
• Location: Waikiki Beach
• Type of Place: Entire Apartment
• Beds: 1 Queen Bed + 2 Sofa Beds
• Extra Amenities: beach accessories available

5. Contemporary Hawaiian Living

The space is nestled in the heart of Nu’uanu (a neighborhood in Honolulu), and feels a world away from the hustle and bustle of the busy Waikiki. But not too far! This Honolulu airbnb is centrally located ten minutes away from the beautiful Lanikai and Waikiki Beach, and close to Ala Moana, Kakaako and Downtown Honolulu. Basically, everything isn’t too far!

Guests can’t believe the unbelievable value. With brand new everything (seriously), a bright and chic space, great backyard for sitting, and lush mountain views, what more could you dream of?! OH — and free parking!

Guest Review: “Great stay! Adorable, updated studio tucked away from the main road. Very private with a beautiful patio to enjoy the views of the valley. Would recommend renting a car for this location to take advantage of nearby amenities.” – Jessica

• AirBnB listing: Contemporary Hawaiian Living (read reviews and book)
• Price: $135+ per night
• Location: Nu’uanu, Honolulu
• Type of Place: Entire Guest Suite
• Beds: 1 Queen Bed
• Extra Amenities: BBQ grill available for use (grilled pineapple, anyone?!)

6. 5 Star Upscale Studio

Some of the pros: Sleek and upscale. FREE parking, steps from Waikiki Beach, a well-equipped kitchen (although don’t miss out on all my favorite restaurants in Oahu!), and close to lots of shopping and bars! There’s also two lanais (balcones) — feel that sweet, sweet Hawaiian breeze!

It’s one of the closest Honolulu airbnbs to the beach! And located right near the Royal Hawaiian and across the street from the new Hyatt Centric. 

And I have a feeling you’ll be getting some of their homemade granola to try. Now this is an Airbnb in Honolulu I’m dying to stay at.

Some of the cons: not many! You won’t wanna leave.

Guest Review: “We highly recommend this place for your next Hawaii vacation! It’s in a great location, is impeccably clean, and has all of the best finishing touches and amenities! Lia is super sweet, and takes care of her visitors! We will definitely come again!” – Paige

• AirBnB listing: 5 Star Upscale Studio (read reviews and book)
• Price: $153+ per night
• Location: Waikiki Beach
• Type of Place: Entire Apartment
• Beds: 1 Queen Bed
• Extra Amenities: beach gear like snorkels, boogie boards, beach towels, coolers

7. Inexpensive Sparkling Studio 

Looking for a great Honolulu airbnb that won’t break the bank? This one’s your answer! Not only is it modern and sparkling clean, but it’s centrally located yet still AWAY from all the noise of the city (just off the beautiful Ala Wai Canal). There’s world class shopping, a multitude of delicious restaurants, and surfing/stand up paddle board lessons nearby. This airbnb in Honolulu even comes equipped with it’s own surfboard and boogie board available for use!

Guest Review: “Tracy’s place made us feel like a local! Quick walk to a coffee shop, ABC store, and the canal with beautiful views. They had everything we needed like cooking tools, filtered water pitcher, laundry supplies, and even snorkeling gears and surf/boogie board. Perfect place for a first timer to enjoy everything in Honolulu, and I would love to stay here again!” – Aki

• AirBnB listing: Inexpensive Sparkling Studio (read reviews and book)
• Price: $90+ per night
• Location: Waikiki
• Type of Place: Entire Condo
• Beds: 1 Queen Bed
• Extra Amenities: Surfboard and Boogie board

8. Dwell-Style Mountain Retreat (Monthly Stays Only)

Mid-century modern furniture. Concrete floors. High ceilings. Designer rugs. SIGN ME UP. Oh, and it’s also got sliding glass doors opening up to magnificent mountain views and the back of Diamond Head and the ocean. Dwell luxury and style meet in this modern 1 bed/1bath guest home in Manoa Valley. 

Manoa is a quaint family neighborhood, close to Waikiki and the airport. Definitely make the short hike to Manoa Falls (it’s literally down the street from this airbnb in Honolulu). There’s also a ridge hike that ends with a fabulous view out the valley towards the ocean. 

Unfortunately this property is only available to rent out for stays of at least a month (at the time of this writing January 2021), but be sure to check it out to see if anything’s changed!

Guest Review: “You’re in the middle of a beautiful area on Oahu, super underrated. It’s close to Waikiki, but far enough to be away from the touristy feel. Keep in mind, you’re in a back house up on the mountain side, so you’ll be climbing up steps to get up. WORTH. EVERY. STEP. If you have difficulty with stairs, keep this in mind. Beautiful view. Amenities – There’s towels, some snacks, juice, beer, wine, cleaning supplies, shower amenities…more than I was even expecting.”

• AirBnB listing: Dwell-Style Mountain Retreat (read reviews and book)
• Price: $185+ per night ($3k per month)
• Location: Manoa Valley, Honolulu
• Type of Place: Entire Guest Suite
• Beds: 1 Queen Bed
• Extra Amenities: too many to list!

9. Floating Getaway for Two!

Ever dreamed of sleeping on a boat? In the middle of the Pacific Ocean? Okay — well, this isn’t quite the middle of the ocean, but it’ll do! Feel the tradewind breezes in your hair, sip cocktails on the deck, and just marvel in that luxurious Hawaiian life. And don’t worry – the host greets you upon arrival and shows you around the boat (and answers any #boatlife questions you may have).

If you’re looking for one of the most unique Honolulu airbnbs, book a few nights on this 38-foot catamaran boat named Lotus! She’s got lots of room (inside and out on the deck), 3 main cabins, a main salon and galley area, and even a large trampoline net to relax on. Plus the views of the ocean (obviously) and Diamond Head are divine! She’s parked right next door to one of Hawaii’s most popular beaches, Ala Moana Beach Park.

Guest Review: “We loved staying on this boat! It’s so cute and such a fun, different experience. A beach is close by as well as a great part of the city with lots of shopping and restaurants in walking distance. Ami is an amazing host as well and was very helpful! Thank you!” – Jadie

• AirBnB listing: Floating Getaway for Two! (read reviews and book)
• Price: $172+ per night 
• Location: Honolulu
• Type of Place: Entire Boat
• Beds: 1 Queen Bed
• Extra Amenities: large trampoline net (look at the photos)!

10. Simply Beautiful Waikīkī Apartment

Classy, cozy, and clean. That’s what guests say about this stunning airbnb in Honolulu! The space has a high-end contemporary modern feel — just take a look at the photos in the listing. There’s everything you need and more in this luxury 2-bedroom apartment – a pool, jacuzzi, sauna, fitness room, and rooftop sundeck with views of Diamond Head! Imagine those sunsets on the lanai!

And plus, it’s under a 5 minute walk to Waikiki Beach! The hosts filled the apartment with all the essentials for an easy and restful vacation. 

Guest Review: “Ashlee and Keli’i went totally above and beyond in giving us an incredible experience. They are the most responsive and responsible hosts I’ve known and it’d be an absolute pleasure to stay with them again.” – Noah

• AirBnB listing: Simply Beautiful Waikīkī Apartment (read reviews and book)
• Price: $350+ per night 
• Location: Waikiki Beach
• Type of Place: Entire 2-Bedroom Apartment
• Beds: 1 King Bed + 1 Queen Bed
• Extra Amenities: BBQ grill facilities, beach gear, and kids accessories

11. Light of La Croix

Fun and vibrant, this spot is actually a boutique hotel only a block away from the beach. Say what?! Yes — you might not have known, but AirBnb does have select hotels on their platform (typically boutique style and bed and breakfasts). Just be sure to read all the fine print (which you would have to do when booking a hotel elsewhere anyways). 

Hotel La Croix is a seamless reflection of Hawaii’s urban energy and natural beauty. It’s stylish, recently updated, and is walking distance to lots of shops and restaurants.

There’s real Kona coffee in the lobby & filtered water, so bring your reusable water bottle and fill ‘er up! Take a dip in the pool with a fringed palm tree view, and then relax in the sauna! All this, and it’s a great value for the money (just be aware of the resort fee; very common in all of Honolulu).

Guest Reviews: “AMAZING location and array of rentals (beach towels, chairs, boogie boards, etc.). Great style and very clean. I enjoyed my stay — it is well situated near all the highlights of Waikiki!! The hotel is a fun, vibrant and stylish space to enjoy a good time in Honolulu. The pool and sauna are lovely and have wonderful views.”

• AirBnB listing: Light of La Croix Bronze
• Price: $97+ per night
• Location: Waikiki
• Type of Place: Boutique Hotel
• Beds: 1 Queen Bed
• Extra Amenities: Pool and Sauna!

12. Mid-Century Modern Wellness Renew 

Another sweet boutique hotel here! And this one’s all about health and wellness! Imagine being greeted with a cool, lemongrass-scented towel and glass of iced mamaki (Hawaiian herbal tea). Yes, please!  The space is thoroughly modern, but with a hint of retro-chic style. The rooms all have views, luxe linens, and calming fabrics.

The Wellness Concierge can help you book yoga classes on the beach to astrology readings, and everything in between.

Guest Reviews: “Great place to stay! Friendly customer service. Big rooms, and a stylish look! Amazing overall!”

• AirBnB listing: Mid-Century Modern Renew 
• Price: $85+ per night
• Location: Waikiki
• Type of Place: Boutique Hotel
• Beds: 1 Full Bed
• Extra Amenities: Beverage coolers and yoga on the beach

Hope this list of Honolulu airbnbs helps you narrow down your search! When are you visiting Oahu and the islands?

The post Best AirBnBs in Honolulu: 15 Tropical and Chic Stays in Oahu (2021) appeared first on A Passion and A Passport.

This massive guide will showcase not only my favorite things to do in Paia, but where to eat, where to stay, and all the best beaches to visit in this hippy surfer town. It’s the perfect escape from the bustling resort area of Kaanapali — super laid back and one of the most eccentric places in Maui.

We visited Paia on our most recent trip to Maui, and fell in love with the entire town. Coming from San Francisco, I loved the hippy, bohemian vibes, and just how vibrant and carefree all the locals seem to be. It’s honestly kinda reminiscent of a funky and laidback California beach town from the 60s, which I discovered is totally my scene. 

The town is full of old-school hippies, professional surfers, and tourists looking for the best things to do in Paia. And of course everyone’s looking to soak up the artsy vibes of the little beach shops (lots of surf and swimwear here!) and fine art galleries. Let’s not forget the hemp store, Buddhist stupa, and the best natural food store on the entire island. Take a break from the beach and head to Paia for a day for some shopping, art, and relaxation! 

And just to set the record straight, make sure you pronounce Paia “pah-ee-ah” — you don’t wanna give away your tourist status right away!

Planning on doing some island hopping? Check out these additional resources:

• The Perfect 5 Day Oahu Itinerary
• 3 Days in Kauai (well worth a few days!)
• My Favorite 5 Days in Maui (all the best spots!)
• 10 Days in Hawaii (ultimate island-hopping resource)
• The Ultimate Hawaii Bucket List 
• 25+ Places to Eat in Oahu (foodies trip, anyone?!)

Things to Know Before Visiting Paia

Where is Paia exactly?!

Paia is located on Maui’s North Shore, not terribly far from where most visitors book hotels. It’s about a 45 minute drive from the buzzy beach areas of Lahaina and Kaanapali in West Maui, and only about 20 minutes from Kihei in South Maui. 

The town is concentrated on the cross section of Hana Highway and Baldwin Avenue, and it’s really hard to miss. Just put Paia Fish Market into your GPS and it’ll take you right to town!

You might have heard of Paia when researching stops on the Road to Hana. This is because it’s essentially the last little town before making the long and windy drive to Hana! Psst – you’ll wanna fill up on gas here.

Many tourists breeze right through Paia with hopes to reach Hana faster, but don’t be like them! Definitely make a stop (just not on the same day you’re driving the road to Hana — Paia deserves a full day of its own!). 

How long to Stay in Paia:

I’d say a day trip to Paia will suffice, but you definitely won’t get to everything on this list! It’s a tiny town, but there’s a whole bunch of things to do and restaurants to check out. 

There’s definitely enough beaches and other things to do in Paia for two days or so, so if you wanna explore in-depth (and eat all the things), plan to spend the night!

Us? We typically visit on day trips when we’re staying in Lahaina/Kaanapali, but next time we’re on Maui, I kinda wanna spend the night!

Weather in Paia

Just like elsewhere in Hawaii, there’s a rainy season and a wet season. The rainy season typically lasts between November-March, with the dry season being April-October. Thankfully, in regards to temperature, highs are consistent in the 80s and lows consistent in the 60s/70s year-round. 

Honestly, there’s really no bad time to visit this artsy town. Just avoid visiting in mid-summer if you’re not a huge fan of the heat, as some will say the weather can become uncomfortably warm. 

Where to Stay in Paia

Paia is home to some of the most unique lodging options in all of Maui! I mean, there’s even a treehouse surrounded by mango trees (and yes, of course it’s on my Hawaii bucket list)!

Would I spend my whole trip in Paia? Probably not — Maui is filled with tons of things to do around the island (find my detailed Maui itinerary here). BUT, I would spend a night or two here in addition to a few nights in Kihei or Lahaina/Kaanapali.

Psst — if you’re hoping to get a head start on the Road to Hana, I highly recommend spending the night before in Paia. You’ll be about 45 minutes ahead of everyone starting in Kaanapali/Lahaina! And those 45 minutes sometimes mean beating all of the traffic!

My Paia recommendations:

Paia Inn: Check out Paia Inn, a boutique hotel just steps from Paia Bay and located across the street from Paia Fish Market (yum!). This Bali-inspired hotel offers private patios, concierge services, and on-site dining. Be sure to lounge on their private beach and relax in their tropical outdoor spaces (and yes, complimentary Wifi is offered of course).

Mangolani Inn: If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, check out Mangolani Inn, a boutique bed and breakfast — in an actual treehouse! Yes, a treehouse!! Just steps away from the main town, Mangolani Inn’s tranquil scenery consists of mango trees, avocado trees, and passionfruit (can we get any more tropical than this!?). 

If this isn’t relaxing enough, don’t forget to lounge in the hammocks and take a dip in the hot tub. Of course, we can’t look past Mangolani Inn’s effort to promote green energy by using solar panels!

Aloha Surf Hostel: Looking for a budget-friendly option? Aloha Surf Hostel, located between two of the most famous surf spots on Maui, offers both dorm-style and private lodging options. This tropical-themed oasis offers free breakfast, tours, and Wifi. And it’s where you’ll find that super Instagrammable surfboard fence!

Take a break from walking the town to play pool, ping pong, or relax in their hot tub. Traveling solo? You’ll be sure to meet fellow travelers here! 

The Best Things To Do in Paia, Maui

Shop in Paia Town: If you’re looking for beachwear or island-themed gifts, the town of Paia offers some of the most unique and eclectic shops to wander around in. Bring your wallet though because these small shops can get quite pricey. A few to check out:

• Don’t miss Alice in Hulaland (one of my favorite shops in Paia), where you can find a reasonably priced beach bag and lots of Hawaiian themed clothing (good quality trendy stuff, not your typical Hawaiian luau shirts). :p

• If you’re looking for some uniquely designed jewelry, be sure to stop into Heart in Paia, where you can buy pieces directly from the artist. Shop small and support!

• And I always love stopping in Pakaloha — their bikinis come in a rainbow of colors (and you can never have enough bikinis!). They are kinda pricey but I’ve been happily wearing mine for years without much wear and tear. 

Colorful Surfboard Photo Opp: Make a quick stop at the Aloha Surf Hostel to take a picture with the array of colorful surfboards (can’t miss this perfect Instagram opportunity!). You’ll find the hostel right on Baldwin Avenue, a little up the road (221 Baldwin Ave). It’ll take all of 5 minutes, but worth it in my opinion!

Hang at the Beach: Need to cool off? I hear ya – all that walking around in the hot Hawaiin air is difficult ?. Take a break and head to the beach, watch the surfers, and take a dip. 

There’s quite a few beaches in Paia, but I highly recommend Baby Beach for a chilled-out lagoon and Ho’okipa Beach if you wanna see some turtles! See below for information about specific beaches in Paia!

Take a Yoga Class: Yogis, you’re gonna LOVE Paia! And all you beginners as well (promise)! Paia is the perfect spot to reconnect your body and mind — there’s a whole slew of yoga studios to check out in this peaceful beach town. 

A few recommendations:

• Relax and clear your mind and body at Maha Yoga & Wellness Center by taking one of their many, reasonably-priced (!!!) yoga classes. Unwind even more by enjoying a massage or foot bath treatment — there’s lots of services to choose from!

• In the mood for a more intense workout? Check out Infusion Barre & Hot Yoga where classes are offered for all levels and instructors are known for their positivity and friendliness. 

• Looking for a beginner yoga class or simply want to expand your yoga skills? Check out Iyengar Yoga, also located in the main town, where a variety of yoga classes (beginner to advanced) are offered. 

Due to the close proximity of these 3 yoga studios, all are comparable in price, and reasonably-priced for yoga in paradise

Ho’okipa Lookout: Take a short drive to Ho’okipa Lookout, famous for watching windsurfers, surfers, and spotting an abundance of sea turtles lounging in the sand. Be cautious as the cliffs can be dangerous and the rocks can be slick. If you’re lucky, you may be able to catch the food trucks and local artists sellings goods near the parking lot. 

Speaking of parking, it can be tough, so arrive early in the day and maybe even catch the sunrise! Check out details about Ho-okipa Beach Park below. 

Head to Twin Falls: Continue your journey on this rustic side of the island by heading to Twin Falls, just a 20 minute drive from the town of Paia. This is the perfect stop if you’re wanting to avoid the treacherous road to Hana. 

Twin Falls is known to be the first stop on the Road to Hana, so obviously can get crowded. Plan to get there early in the day. Park on the street and follow the jungly trail to the waterfalls. 

This short trail (it’s less than a mile!), will lead you to a beautiful freshwater pool where you may see locals jumping off of cliffs or tourists simply cooling off in this refreshing natural pool. Be sure to bring a waterproof camera and get those insta-worthy pics!! 

This spot is a DREAM for the ultimate jungly Hawaiian photos. Take the trail back to the parking lot — you’ll find a Hawaiian Farm Stand full of fresh juices, smoothies, and popsicles. Indulge!

FYI — It’s best to wear hiking/water shoes or shoes with grips on the bottom as this trail can be muddy, wet, and slippery at times. 

Huelo Lookout: If you wish, continue on the Road to Hana to Huelo Lookout (it’s about 25 minutes east of Paia). There’s views of the ocean in the distance and of course, those not-to-miss jungly lookouts. Stop at the Huelo Lookout Shack for some fresh banana bread, smoothie, or sugar cane juice (my favorite!). 

Makawao Spa Treatments: Experience the tranquil upcountry town of Makawao by getting a massage, facial, or an ultimate, luxurious spa treatment from Ho’omana Spa. Ancient Hawaiian techniques and natural remedies are incorporated to give you the ultimate relaxation experience. The coconut milk and honey bath is calling my name! 

Maui Pineapple Tours: Take a 10 minute drive from Paia up to Makawao to experience Maui Pineapple Tours to learn about the history and culture of harvesting this yummy fruit! Tour the actual pineapple fields and learn all about the growing cycle of a pineapple. 

This 1.5 hour tour can be a bit pricey, but included in the price is an airport safe pre-packaged pineapple to take home and enjoy on the mainland! The ultimate Hawaiian souvenir!

Take a Helicopter Tour: Looking for more adventurous things to do in Paia and want to get a bird’s eye view of the island? Take a helicopter tour from OGG and experience the Hana Rainforest, where you’ll land and explore a former taro plantation in the Wailua Valley. 

Continue your journey by exploring the lush jungle! Experience aerial views of Maui’s north coast, specifically Paia, Haiku, and the Road to Hana. This is the perfect alternative to experiencing Hana if you’re not wanting to take on the well-known treacherous drive. It’s honestly not that scary though — just use common sense and go slow!

After landing in Kahului, make an extra stop at Geste Shrimp Truck for lunch. Be sure to try their flavorful garlic shrimp!! One of the best on the island. Need a pick-me-up? Be sure to grab a cup of authentic Hawaiian coffee from Akamai Coffee. 

Read Next: My Helicopter Experience in Maui (psst — we loved it!)

Attend the Obon Ceremony and Festival at Mantokuji Mission of Paia: If you’re lucky enough to be in Paia during the Obon Ceremony and Festival, head to the Mantokuji Mission of Paia. The Obon Ceremony and Festival is a Japanese ceremony to celebrate the lives of ancestors by participating in traditional dances and eating lots of food (count me in!). 

Famous for serving local favorites like andagi (deep-fried donuts), shave ice, and chow fun, this vibrant and lively ceremony takes place in the summer. Be sure to check the exact dates at Mantokuji Mission for this festival’s arrival. It’s by far one of the most cultural things to do in Paia!

Beaches in Paia

Baldwin Beach Park: Be sure to check out Baldwin Beach Park, the North Shore’s most popular beach. This long, white sandy beach offers bathrooms, showers, picnic tables, BBQs, and lifeguards (for good reason)!! The surf can be rough at times, making this a popular destination for experienced body boarders and windsurfers. 

Baby Beach: Looking to cool off after strolling the shops or taking a hot yoga class? Head over to Baby Beach – the perfect spot to relax as this lagoon offers protection from the big waves.

Swim some laps, float on your back, or take a stroll on the large sand dunes and wooded area that backs the beach. It’s kid-friendly but can get windy in the afternoons, so be sure to hit this beach earlier in the day.  I LOVED seeing the turtles swim around in the water.

Ho’okipa Beach Park: Not in the mood to go snorkeling in Maui, but want to see more Hawaiian green sea turtles and professional windsurfers? Head over to Ho’okipa Beach Park! This beach is home to a world renowned windsurfing destination due to its impressive surf. But my favorite part — the sea turtles! There’s lot of them relaxing on the shore and the exposed reef that runs along the water. Don’t get too close; they’re federally protected!

Like Baldwin Beach, it’s best to be careful of the surf and rip currents over here. Two lifeguard stands are located at each end of the beach — be sure to ask them about the swimming conditions for the day. 

Want to get a better view? Head up to Ho’okipa Lookout, located on a cliff along the beach. It may be best to drive to this spot, as the lookout offers its own parking lot. More information on the lookout can be found under “Things to do in Paia”.

Tavares Beach: Next up, Tavares Beach, a sandy spot near Paia known for its snorkeling, swimming, rock jumping, surfing, and windsurfing. You may even spot some sea turtles along the reef! The beach is a favorite among locals, so try to hit this beach during the week to avoid crowds. 

Tavares is easy to miss, especially if you’re not familiar with the area. It’s often referred to as “Blue Tile House Beach”, as there is a beach house with a ceramic blue tile roof used as a landmark (so look out for that!).

Paia Secret Beach: Between Paia Bay and Baldwin Beach, you’ll find Paia Secret Beach. Known as a clothing optional or nude beach, this beach is relatively private and often visited by locals. 

To access this beach, park at Paia Bay and walk through the wooded area along the west end of the bay. Clothing is expected on the Paia side of the beach, unlike the Kahului side, where some swim nude. There is no vehicle access for visitors and there are better beaches for swimming adjacent to this one, but head here if you’re looking to avoid crowds or simply want to swim nude!

Kaulahao Beach: Need to see more sea turtles? Head over to Kaulahao Beach, located just about a half a mile away from Paia town. This isn’t the best beach for swimming due to the rocks, but sea turtles on the sand!!!! There is a small parking lot, where visitors come and go, likely making a stop before beginning the Road to Hana. 

Where to Eat in Paia

Mama’s Fish House: My all time favorite place to eat in not just Paia, but in all of Maui(!!!). Whatever you do, don’t miss this spot! There’s Polynesian decor, a seafood-driven Hawaiian menu, and even epic ocean views. 

The menu changes daily depending on what the local fishermen catch — it doesn’t get more fresh than that! And while everything on the menu is great, obviously get fish and dessert (I’d die for some lobster-stuffed mahi mahi and liliko’i creme brulee right about now)! 

Psst → You’ll definitely need to make a reservation (way) in advance, as Mama’s is popular for a reason. Check sunset time and make your reservation for a bit after. Come extra early to wander the lush grounds, watch the sunset, and grab a tiki drink at the bar!

Paia Fish Market: Time to fuel up after shopping and beach time? Be sure to check out the well-known Paia Fish Market. This casual dine-in restaurant has fresh seafood plates, tacos, and pasta. If you’re not a fan of seafood, they offer burgers, salads, and plenty of appetizers. Definitely order the shrimp and fish tacos — some of the best I’ve ever had!

Cafe des Amis: Not in the mood for seafood? How dare you (haha). Cafe des Amis serves up both Mediterranian and Indian dishes for breakfast and all throughout the day. I cannot stop thinking about their crepes! 

Not hungry? Grab a cocktail, glass of wine, or a refreshing fruit smoothie! Be sure to check out their happy hour from 4-6! We always look for happy hours on the island to stay within budget, while still getting to try all of the yummy, island food! 

Ice cream lover? Head over to Cafe des Amis’s Artisan Ice Cream shop, located right next door. With raving reviews and local flavors like toasted coconut (vegan) and lilikoi butter, you’ll definitely want to try this homemade ice cream! 

Paia Bowls: If you haven’t had an acai bowl in Hawaii yet, do yourself a favor and make that a TOP priority. And lemme tell you — the acai from Paia Bowls is top-notch (they also have smoothies, but who are we kidding, just get a bowl. Add some of their tropical toppings like coconut, ashwagandha, papaya (my favorite!), and even peanut butter! 

The outdoor patio is just as lush as you’d imagine. Need a pick-me-up? You’re in luck — there’s bulletproof coffee and a golden turmeric latte here, too!

Milagros Food Company: Need a heartier meal or simply a cold cocktail? Head over to Milagros Food Company for fresh Mexican food, mai tais, and margaritas! Try something Hawaiian like a Li Hing Mui marg and a mahi-mahi burrito.

Psst → Happy Happy is EVERYDAY from 3-6, and the drink and appetizer specials are a really great price!

Mana Foods: Yup, Mana Foods is actually a grocery store — BUT, here me out! Imagine aisles of fresh tropical fruits, organic local produce, delicious bakery goods, and even a smoothie bar. It definitely ain’t your regular market!

Pick up some deli meat, tropical fruit, a salad from the salad bar, or a dish from their hot food bar and head to one of the beaches mentioned above for a picnic and some more sunshine! 

Tobi’s Shave Ice: Shave ice a MUST in Maui, and Tobi’s doesn’t disappoint. The syrups are locally sourced and there’s lots of outdoor seating. And always add the coconut ice cream for that perfectly creamy flavor. 

If you need more than a snack, their fresh tuna poke is the way to go.

Vana Paia: We like to come to Vana Paia (part of Paia Inn) for breakfast. Yes, it’s a bit on the pricier side, but I promise you won’t be disappointed. The food is high-quality and fresh, there’s fresh-pressed juice (my fave), and you can eat under the tropical trees on the outdoor patio. Loaded bloody mary’s anyone?! You betcha they fill up that glass with all of the fixings!

Coming later in the day? Vana offers pastas, sandwiches, and fresh fish dishes like scallops and prawns. They’ve even got their own sushi bar — make sure to try a few sushi rolls and some fresh sashimi.

Paia Bay Coffee and Bar: Paia Bay offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner, or come here simply for some coffee! You might even catch some chill live music! 

There are so many options — think breakfast plates, nutella croissants (<3), fresh salads, sandwiches, and a mahi mahi curry bowl (yum!). Again, look for their happy hour, which runs from 3-6 and offers food and drinks! 

This outdoor restaurant is tucked behind the storefronts, so be sure to keep an eye out! I recommend stopping here to fuel up before heading on the Road to Hana. 

Flatbread Company: Ohhhh, one of my favorite dishes — wood-fired pizza! And they’re over here at Flatbread Company. With fresh ingredients for salads and pizzas, no one should be disappointed (and tehre’s even a bunch of vegan options!). We like to share a pizza and a salad here and it’s enough for the two of us! 

I hope you’ve enjoyed all my favorite things to do in Paia! Are you planning a trip to the North Shore of Maui anytime soon?!

The post Things to do in Paia, HI: Maui’s Chilled Out Hippie Town on the North Shore appeared first on A Passion and A Passport.

Ohhh — Hawaii. A place we love and frequent quite often. I mean, how could we not living so close by in San Francisco (ok, so it is a 5 hour flight, but who’s counting).

Oahu is the most touristy island in Hawaii (and also the most visited!), but we still love it! It’s a complete island paradise full of over 125 beaches, famous world-class surf, the bustling city of Honolulu, and a unique Polynesian history. From the waterfalls, snorkeling, and waves to hip nightlife, trendy eats, and modern shopping, we just can’t get enough of the third largest island in Hawaii.

The island is home to the state’s capital and largest city, Honolulu. Because of this, Oahu is a blend of buzzy city life and beachy island oasis. Don’t miss the North Shore — we love it up there! There’s truly something for everyone — super soft sand, delicious malasadas, easy (and strenuous) hiking opportunities, and action-packed adventures for those thrill-seekers.

You’ll see after reading through this Oahu itinerary that it’s nearly impossible to get bored here. And if you’re a photographer or just love getting fun IG pics, don’t miss out on these Oahu photo spots! The island is oh so colorful — I had such a hard time putting my camera away!

Yes, we love Maui the most, but Oahu will always be memorable to us (for a few reasons!). We spent my 30th birthday skydiving on the north shore (STILL cannot believe we did that), and my husband even ran his first-ever Hawaiian marathon on Oahu (he’s since ran marathons on Kauai and Maui)! Me? I don’t run, I just welcome him at the finish line with malasadas.

→ Read Next: The Ultimate Hawaii Bucket List (with over 200 things to do on the islands!)

So what are you waiting for? Grab a mai tai and let’s dig in! I’ve got a full Oahu itinerary planned out, plus all the logistics you need to plan your trip.

Oahu Itinerary in a Nutshell

• Day 1: Pearl Harbor + Honolulu 
• Day 2: Diamond Head + Waikiki
• Day 3: Hanauma Bay Snorkeling + Southeast Oahu 
• Day 4: Pillbox Hike + Lanikai Beach + More
• Day 5: North Shore + Dole Plantation

About this Oahu Itinerary: You can easily change around any of the days (for example, day 2 of this Oahu itinerary on your actual day 4, etc), as there’s not really a rhyme or reason why I chose this specific order. I did however (carefully) group each day’s activities, so you’ll wanna keep those together for less driving and maximum island time.

Island Hopping in Hawaii: Planning on doing some island hopping? Check out these additional resources:

• The Perfect 5 Day Maui Itinerary
• 3 Days in Kauai (well worth a few days!)
• 10 Days in Hawaii (ultimate island-hopping resource)
• The Ultimate Hawaii Bucket List 
• 25+ Places to Eat in Oahu (foodies trip, anyone?!)

Where is Oahu?

Oahu is one of the main islands of Hawaii, located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. It’s the second farthest from the mainland, between the islands of Kauai (the farthest) and Maui/Molokai.

Everyone always talks about Honolulu and Waikiki, and yup — those are both on the island of Oahu!

Logistics for your 5 Day Oahu Itinerary

How to Get to Oahu

Oahu is in fact an island, so you’ll obviously need to fly there! When you fly into Oahu, you’ll be heading into Honolulu International Airport (code HNL). Make sure to look out the window as you arrive — the turquoise waters will blow you away before you even touch land!

Thankfully, there’s tons of nonstop flights from the mainland headed to Honolulu International, Hawaii’s largest airport. And because of this, you may be able to find slightly cheaper tickets than to the neighboring islands of Maui and Kauai.

Flight Time: No matter where you’re coming from, it’ll take a while to get to Hawaii (flying across the Pacific takes time!)

Flights from SFO (San Francisco) to Oahu are roughly 5 hours, 20 minutes, with the flight from LAX (Los Angeles) being slightly longer at 5 hours, 40 minutes. 

Obviously, if you’re coming from elsewhere on the mainland, flight times will vary!

Psst → the flight home will always be at least an hour shorter due to wind patterns.

Flight Prices: I normally find flights from the West Coast to Hawaii for approximately $450, although I’ve seen them offered as low as in the $300’s roundtrip. 

And now with nonstops from Southwest in the picture, I can sometimes find flights from SFO to Honolulu for as low as $200 round trip. If you ever see one of those babies, snag them right up (they don’t stay around for long).

Should you stop on the West Coast of the mainland first? Well, that’s entirely up to you, but I’d highly recommend it! Not only will you possibly save a few pennies on the flights, but you can spend a few days in California (while adjusting to the West Coast time zone, ultimately helping with jet lag in Hawaii) and get two trips outta one!

How to Get Around Oahu

If you’re just planning on staying within the city (Honolulu), you can easily get by with walking and taking the trolley. 

BUT — don’t spend all your time in Honolulu! Promise me you’ll venture out to other parts of the island! Doing so means you’ll need to get around some other way. 

If you plan to explore the North Shore (a must), relax at Lanikai Beach, and/or watch the sunset at the Tantalus Lookout (our favorite) with ease, public transport just won’t cut it. Planning on following this Oahu itinerary? You’ll undoubtedly need to rent a car.

Renting a Car:

Most people who come to Oahu rent a car. The island is pretty spread out (besides the bustling city of Honolulu), so you’ll want an easy way to get around. Driving in Oahu is easy, although you will experience some traffic in the busier tourist seasons and during morning and evening rush hour. Remember – people live here, meaning people go to work each and every day! 

There’s tons of rental car agencies with pickups directly at the airport. Do note that parking can be somewhat of an issue in Honolulu, so you’ll wanna make sure your hotel has a spot/lot for you.

→ I like to search via this site in order to compare rental companies to see who has the best price. Feeling a bit extra? Splurge on a convertible or an open-air jeep – this is Hawaii afterall! Treat yo-self! 

Public Transportation on Oahu:

The Bus: Thankfully, Oahu has an excellent bus system, aptly named “The Bus”! Couldn’t be easier than that, right? Although it mostly services Honolulu (so yes, Waikiki’s included), the bus system has lines extending out to almost every major town on the island. HOWEVER, it’ll take ridiculously longer to get from place to place using The Bus vs. your own rental car. 

And just to note, some bus stops only see buses once an hour on Sundays, holidays, and in less traveled areas. With that being said, if you don’t wanna rely on the bus (and possibly wait around for an hour), just rent a car.

• One way fares are $2.75, while a 1-day pass will put you back $5.50. 

Waikiki Trolley: Hands up if you like an easy hop-on, hop-off bus! If you’re looking for a super easy way to see oh so much of the city, the Waikiki Trolley might just be perfect for you. The Trolley can also take you to other spots like Pearl Harbor, Diamond Head, and Ala Moana. Some bus lines can get crowded though, so you may have to wait for the next bus (wasting precious vacation time).

Ride Shares on Oahu: Yes, Uber and Lyft have made their way to Honolulu! If you’re not renting a car, I recommend using Uber or Lyft to get you from the airport to your hotel. In addition, do note that Uber/Lyfts are typically not available in every part of the island, only the more touristy areas. Plan to use it for short trips around Honolulu, but don’t rely on it for longer rides.

When to Visit Oahu: Crowds and Weather

It’s honestly never a bad time to plan an Oahu itinerary — the island has a year-round tropical climate afterall! Meaning, the weather’s pretty much almost perfect all the time. Temps range from 80°F during the coldest months, while the warmest months don’t go past ~88°F or so. See, I told you — pretty darn perfect!

Expect temps to be a tad chillier at night once the sun goes down. Nothing a light jacket can’t fix!

But with all this being said, Oahu does have two distinct seasons: rainy season (winter) and dry season (summer). Don’t worry — both are warm and tropical, but if you HATE the rain (like me), stay away from the rainy season. It can rain any time of year, but it’s way more wet and windy in the winter. But it doesn’t rain every day (or all day, either), so you’ll still get lots of sunny, dry days in winter.

Surprisingly, despite the rain, the highest tourist season is during the winter! Must be because everyone’s looking for a little respite from their actual freezing/snowy winter on the mainland. 

If I had to pick when to visit Oahu, I’d choose the shoulder seasons of mid-April to early June or between September and mid-December. You’ll likely be able to find some deals on airfare and hotel rates, it’ll be way less crowded (although, when is Hawaii not crowded?), and there’s lots of fun local festivals going on! 

A little more in-depth here:

Winter: Rainy Season (November to March) — While winter is considered the rainy season, it thankfully doesn’t rain every single day. Sometimes there’s short spurts of rain (and then sunshine and rainbows), while other days it might rain heavily for an extended amount of time. 

If you don’t want rain, stay away from December through February, as it’s the rainiest time (although the rain typically falls overnight). Mid January through mid-April has the coldest ocean temps, so just be aware if you plan to do some snorkeling.

Summer: Dry Season (April to October) — Summer is dry season, with June through August being the driest (no rain over here!). You’ll find the warmest ocean temps in August through early November, so forget about that wetsuit!

Microclimates: Regardless of the season, you won’t find rain on the entire island. Like San Francisco, Oahu has microclimates, meaning different areas of the island experience different rain patterns and weather. If it’s raining where you’re at, it might make sense to head to the other coast to escape the rain! In general, it’s typically drier on the Leeward Coast (west) and wetter and greener on the Windward Coast (east). 

Where to Stay in Oahu

Oahu is divided into a few main regions, being Honolulu/Waikiki, the North Shore, Leeward Coast, Central Oahu, and Windward Coast. Visitors primarily stay in Waikiki, the Leeward Coast, or the North Shore.

Waikiki

Most of the island’s hotel rooms are found in Waikiki (Honolulu), so naturally, that’s where most visitors book when planning their Oahu itinerary! However, like any big tourist city, there’s both pros and cons of staying here:

Pros of staying in Waikiki:

• There’s lots to do here! Beaches, museums, historic and cultural sites, animal attractions, etc. Lots of shopping and tons of restaurants, too!
• You don’t need a car to explore Waikiki and most of the city is pretty walkable! There’s even shuttles from the airport right to Waikiki.
• Hotel prices are competitive and you may be able to snag a cheap hotel room. Since this is a city with tons of hotels, there’s more to choose from.
• Getting around is easy with the trolley and TheBus.

Cons of staying in Waikiki:

• It’s super crowded, especially on the beach. And yes, this also means there’s lots of traffic while driving in the area as well.
• Parking fees at the resorts in Waikiki are astronomical — some even charge as much as $45 per day to park overnight.
• You might end up staying in the city your whole 5 days in Oahu, instead of feeling like you had a truly relaxing beach vacation.
• Most of the beach resorts in Waikiki charge a daily resort fee, adding to the overall nightly expense. Be sure to look out for these before booking! The Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort is actually one of the only beach resorts that doesn’t charge this pesky fee.

Recommended Hotels in Waikiki

1. The Royal Hawaiian: Have you ever seen photos of an iconic pink hotel right on the water in Oahu? That’s this one! It’s even been nicknamed the Pink Palace of the Pacific — and it’s easy to see why! Although we’ve never stayed, we’ve wandered the grounds, snuck a peek at the (gorgeous) pool area, had a few mai tais at the bar, and even indulged in pineapple scones for breakfast one morning. To say we’re dying to stay here is a massive understatement! It’s a little pricey so would make for a perfect birthday or anniversary trip!

2. The Laylow, Autograph Collection:  What’s better than a chic hotel with a mid-century vintage Hawaiian vibe?! Spoiler alert — not much. The place is super trendy and I’ve heard the on-site bar/restaurant, The Hideout, is amazing! I’ve been wanting to stay here as soon as it opened. Can you blame me?

3. The Modern Honolulu: Another trendy hotel right on the waterfront with a cool retro and modern vibe at the same time. I wanna stay here to check out the sleek rooms!

4. Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club: A mid priced island-chic designer boutique that’s actually one of Waikiki’s most popular places to stay. Surfjack really plays up the 1960’s Hawaiian beach culture. Plus, the pool is super fun and Olive & Oliver (located within the hotel) serves up great coffee and is 100% instagrammable!

5. Sheraton Waikiki: Your standard chain hotel, taken up a few notches! The Sheraton’s located right on Waikiki Beach, has three restaurants, a spa, and a gorgeous infinity pool (plus another with a waterslide!!!). All in all, a great location and stay.

6. Moana Surfrider: Being the oldest hotel in Waikiki (open since 1901!), Moana Surfrider definitely deserves a spot on this list. Perfect location and I’d definitely pay a bit more for an oceanview!

A Note on AirBnbs in Waikiki (and Oahu in General)

We used to LOVE staying in AirBnbs — up until kinda recently honestly. For quite a few reasons, actually:

• The fees have become astronomical. A cleaning fee. A host fee. A myriad of other fees. Once you add them all up, that inexpensive Airbnb stay isn’t so cheap anymore. I’ve seen stays double in price due to fees.

• Super confusing cancellation policies. Just look at the policies — they’re all so wacky and extra confusing! In this day and age, we only book accommodation we can cancel super easily without penalties. I’ve even messaged Airbnb hosts to confirm cancellation polices (which seemed too good to be true) and they’ve said the ones on their page are not correct? Hmm… that sounds super tricky to me and not something I wanna deal with in case I do need to cancel.

• Managed by non-locals. Most (not all) Oahu Airbnb properties are managed by people on the mainland — not Hawaii itself. This means you’re not supporting the Hawaiian economy, but those with additional properties who don’t even live in Hawaii.

With all this being said, I recommend staying in a hotel instead. This is what we’ve been doing for all our recent trips. By doing so, you’re actually supporting the local economy! Think of all the locals who work in hotels — from the management and front desk staff to the cleaning staff and kitchen staff. These people rely on jobs in Oahu itself.

If you do feel the need to book an AirBnb (I get it, sometimes it’s the better choice for you and your family), PLEASE find a property that is managed by a local on the island itself. Thank you. ?

Other Places to Stay in Oahu

West Side of Oahu (Leeward Coast): Found on the western coast of Oahu, you’re going to find sunnier and drier weather than other parts of the island. If you’re looking to sunbathe and improve your tan, this is the place for you.

Recommended hotels: Four Seasons Resort at Ko Olina (one of the best luxury resorts in all of Hawaii), Marriott’s Ko Olina Beach Club (poolside bar, anyone?!), and of course we can’t forget the Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina (absolutely amazing for families with kids!). 

North Coast: Oahu’s chilled out surf town, with laid back vibes and pristine beaches. This scenic area is much quieter than bustling Waikiki, so consider a stay here if you’re looking to slow down a little. 

Recommended hotels: There’s not tons of options here, but the Turtle Bay Resort is great for couples looking for a truly relaxing getaway, and I’ve heard the Courtyard by Marriott North Shore is a great pick as well (come for the lagoon-style pool, stay for the modern amenities).

Oahu Packing List

When packing for your trip, you wanna make sure you’ve got all the right clothing and gear for everything you’ve planned for your Oahu itinerary. Think about the activities you’ll be doing, and prepare for those! 

Everyone will need their typical everyday clothing (shorts, t-shirts, tank tops, etc). A few pairs of shoes is a good idea — I recommend bringing a pair of flip flops, sandals, dressy shoes (for a nice dinner out), and sneakers/hiking boots if you’re planning on doing some hiking.

Women’s Packing List: You’ll obviously need all your favorite beach attire, including bathing suits (buy a few new ones!), beach cover-ups, loose cotton dresses, a cute sun hat, casual and dressy sandals, 

Psst: Women — If you’re planning on taking a surf lesson, be sure to pack a bathing suit that stays put and has good support. You don’t wanna fall out if you accidentally wipe out! :p

Men’s Packing List: Be cool and casual during the day (my husband loves short sleeve button downs for a more polished look), but be sure to check the dress code for any restaurants you really wanna go to. Men might need pants and dress shoes to enter.

Other Miscellaneous Items to Pack for Oahu

• Polarized sunglasses (better for blocking out the harsh UV rays)
• Beach bag and/or backpack: make sure it’s large enough to fit a beach towel or two!
• Hat/s: The sun is strong here! I love taking a wide-brimmed sun hat for the beach and a fun trucker hat when hiking.
• If your Oahu itinerary includes a bunch of snorkeling around the island, you’ll probably save some cash by bringing your own mask and snorkel.
• A waterproof kindle or other e-reader for reading at the beach (I’d be worried a physical book may accidentally get wet!)
• Your hotel may give you towels, but we love traveling with a sand-free beach mat
• Reusable water bottle: better for the environment and a must for hiking!
• Reef Safe sunscreen (always use when in the water, as other sunscreen is harmful to marine life): We love ThinkSport (make sure the bottles are less than 3.4 ounces if you’re bringing them in your carryon)! Don’t forget about SLP lip balm as well!
• Aloe Vera Gel: always have some handy in case you get a sunburn; aloe will give the burn some much-needed relief
• Dramamine: This will help with motion sickness if you’re planning to do a snorkeling or boat tour (the waves can get rough!).
• Underwater camera: All my underwater photography tips and gear here. I’d check out an underwater phone case, too.
• Portable battery charger: Charge your phone on the go and never run out of a charge
• Noise-cancelling headphones: Great for both the plane and the beach! I’m obsessed with my AirPods and Noah loves his Bose Quiet Comforts.
• Tote bag: Plastic bags are banned in Oahu, so bring your own for shopping! I love this collapsible reusable tote bag (hardly takes up any room in your suitcase).

Other Important Things to Keep in Mind

• Never take shells or sand home: You may be surprised, but it’s actually against state law to take sand from any beach in Hawaii. Leave the sand at the beach for everyone to enjoy. If you don’t abide by the laws, you could see a hefty fine of upwards of $100,000. Yup — they’re serious over here. And while you’re at it, don’t bring home any shells or rocks either.

• Respect wildlife: Like in Maui, PLEASE keep wildlife WILD. NEVER attempt to chase/touch/pet/feed ANY wild animal. This can potentially do harm to these beloved creatures, and possibly cause unnecessary distress. And remember, always wear reef-safe sunscreen.

• Respect the local culture: It comes as no surprise that the majority of Hawaii’s diverse population lives on Oahu. The locals take great pride in their deep culture, values, and traditions of the Native Hawaiian people. A real fusion of East and West cultures. Respect it. 

• Forgo the straw and plastic bag: Hawaii is leading the way in becoming more self-sustaining. Do your part and don’t make it any harder for them. This means use less throw-away plastics (better for sea life anyways), don’t waste water, and recycle the best you can. The islands will love you for it!

Oahu vs. Honolulu vs. Waikiki

Just to make sure we’re all on the same page, as mentioned before, Honolulu and Waikiki are located on Oahu. And Waikiki is actually part of Honolulu! To make things super simple (because I understand it can get confusing if you haven’t been to the island before):

• Honolulu is a city on Oahu
• Waikiki is a beachfront neighborhood within the city of Honolulu

Kinda like how San Francisco is a city in California and The Mission is a neighborhood in San Francisco! Or for all you East Coasters out there, how like NYC is a city in New York and the Upper East Side is a neighborhood in NYC.

5 Day Oahu Itinerary

Day 1: Pearl Harbor and Downtown Honolulu

Morning: Pay Your Respects at Pearl Harbor

You simply cannot visit Honolulu without paying your respects at Pearl Harbor. It’s easily Hawaii’s top tourist attraction, with millions of people visiting each year! Make sure to add Pearl Harbor to your Oahu itinerary — it’ll be somber yet beautiful for sure.

What’s the significance of Pearl Harbor you ask? I’m sure you heard of it, but don’t worry — we’re not all history majors (I probably should have paid better attention in US History class). 

Pearl Harbor was the scene of the devastating Japanese air attack on December 7, 1941, which catapulted the US into World War II. More than 2,400 Americans died on this day, while another 1,000 were wounded. I highly recommend you take the time to visit this historical Hawaiian naval base; granted, your visit will undoubtedly be a heavy one. Visit the landmarks and memorials, and be sure to soak in a bit of history.

Most people probably don’t realize this, but there’s actually four Historic Sites of Pearl Harbor open for visitors. It’s way more than just the memorial above the sunken ship of the USS Arizona.

• USS Arizona Memorial
• USS Bowfin submarine
• Battleship Missouri Memorial
• USS Oklahoma Memorial and Pacific Aviation Museum

However, if you don’t have 6 hours or so, you’ll wanna prioritize the USS Arizona Memorial (the most popular memorial at Pearl Harbor).

Look below the water’s surface and you’ll be able to see the rusty USS Arizona — yes, the actual ship from the 40s is still at the bottom of the harbor. You may even see droplets of oil leaking out of the ship — we saw swirls of oil and honestly couldn’t believe it. There’s also a room in the back dedicated to those who lost their lives on the USS Arizona, with names engraved.

Wanna make sure you don’t miss out on any important history? Sign up for a narrated audio tour of Pearl Harbor here! Or, if you want to combine Pearl Harbor with a tour around the island, this Oahu and Pearl Harbor Sightseeing Tour may be just perfect for you.

A few important tips:

• Go early. The earlier the better. Pearl Harbor gets especially crowded on weekends and during prime tourist season. 
• Dress with respect. Remember, this is in fact a memorial. Leave the skimpy skirts and tops at home. Don’t even think about wearing a bikini here. You don’t have to dress formal per say, just be tasteful. You’re not going to the beach.
• Leave your things in the car/hotel. When visiting Pearl Harbor, you’ll need to go through security, and you cannot bring any bags with you.

Afternoon: Downtown Honolulu

Next up, spend some time in and around downtown Honolulu! This is where you’ll find all those skyscrapers and the lavish Iolani Palace. Downtown Honolulu is Oahu’s bustling political and business hub, but don’t fret → there’s actually lots to see! My top recommendations (all easily walkable):

• Arvo Cafe for Brunch/Lunch: Ohhh, we love this cute little plant-filled coffee shop! Don’t miss the loaded avocado toast, halloumi burger, a lavender latte, and some fresh squeezed OJ! Make sure to go here first thing after Pearl Harbor since they close at 2pm. 

• Walk Around Kakaako and Look for Street Art: There’s a whole bunch of murals in this hip little area, with many claiming Kakaako to be Honolulu’s trendiest district. The murals get refreshed during the Pow Wow Street Art Festival every February, so you never know what you’ll find! We loved wandering around finding all the colors and taking fun photos!

• Iolani Palace and King Kamehameha Statue: Opulent, grand, and spectacularly unique. Iolani Palace is the former home of the 19th century monarch, with a museum and optional tours. Learn all about the life of the King and Hawaiian history in general. A must-do on this Oahu itinerary for history lovers! Don’t miss the King Kamehameha Statue (featured in Hawaii 5-0!) right across the street.

• Aloha Tower and Marketplace: Head up to the 10th floor observation deck (for free!) for perfect views of Honolulu Harbor and the Ko’olau Mountain Range. The building actually used to be a lighthouse. You can have your first acai or shave ice here at HItalian (highly recommended).

• Washington Place: More history here (built in 1847), and home to Hawaii’s rulers, past and present. Starting with Queen Lili’uokalani, and now the official residence of the state’s governor. Free tours are offered, but even just a look outside at the colonial mansion is worth a few minutes!

• Foster Botanical Garden: Who doesn’t love a botanical garden? It’s small, but a great respite from the busy city! Relax and enjoy the sounds of nature, and check out the Cannonball Tree and rainbow eucalyptus (a must if you’re not visiting the Road to Hana on Maui)!

Other things to do in Downtown Honolulu: 

• The Friends of Falls of Clyde (Maritime Museum)
• The Cathedral of St. Andrew (Episcopal Church with stained glass windows)
• Point Panic (great ocean views)
• Kuan Yin Temple (Buddhist temple with beautiful gardens)
• Eternal Flame Memorial (dedication to the people of Hawaii that have served in the US Armed Forces)

Night: Waikiki Sunset Cruise

It’s your first day of this Oahu itinerary — don’t miss your first Hawaiian sunset! Psst: they’re absolutely remarkable. And seeing the sunset from the water with the gentle rocking of the boat is oh so relaxing!

Unless you’ve got a friend with a boat (ha!), you’ll need to book yourself on a tour. I highly recommend this Sunset Cocktail Boat Cruise (who doesn’t like hanging out on a 53-foot catamaran?!).

Savor freshly prepared “pupus” (appetizers) like avocado poke and taro rolls with lilikoi butter (yummm) and sip on tropical Hawaiian cocktails, all while admiring Hawaii’s beautiful coastline. Book sunset cruise here.

Grab dinner afterwards in Waikiki. Some of our favorite spots:

• Marukame Udon (always a long line but well worth the wait for these Japanese noodles)
• Roy’s (for a bomb ass special occasion dinner – get the lilikoi cheesecake, always)
• Dukes Waikiki (come for the fish tacos, stay for the hula pie, and sit in the sand)
• Chef Chai (for some top-notch Asian Fusion)
• Yard House (a high-end sports bar with lots of beers on tap)
• Paia Fish Market Waikiki (the BEST fish tacos on the island)

Day 2: Diamond Head Hike and Waikiki Beach

Morning: Diamond Head Crater Hike

Does climbing up an extinct Hawaiian volcanic crater sound like your kinda morning? You’re in luck, because we’re headed off to Diamond Head, the world’s most famous crater. Honestly, even if you’re more of a “lay-on-the-beach-sip-mai-tai’s” kinda girl (or guy!), get your butt up and do it anyways. :p

You’ll thank me once you reach the summit — all your huffing and puffing will be rewarded with panoramic 360-degree views of Waikiki Beach and all of Honolulu. The views are downright STUNNING (think emerald green mountains against sparkling aquamarine water), making for the perfect early morning adventure before hitting the beach. 

Although the hike is only about 1.6 miles round trip, you’ll find lots of windy, rocky, uneven and narrow trails. Oh, and expect some steep stairs as well. Makes sense – you’re climbing up 500 feet to the top of a crater! 

If you’d feel more confident with a guide, don’t fret! You can easily join a Diamond Head Crater Morning Adventure Hike. You’ll even learn about Hawaiian history, volcanic formation, and bird and plant species from your guide. The tour is super highly rated and you’ll be done before lunch time! Read reviews and book guided hike here.

Plan for about 2-3 hours, depending on how much time you want at the top and how skilled of a hiker you are. Definitely start early — you’ll avoid the lines and crowds on the stairs (it gets busy and the stairs are narrow).

Make sure to take lots of water (and a hat and sunscreen)– the sun is strong here! While it’s a super popular hike and honestly not all that difficult (even with all the stairs), it can be taxing in the heat. I didn’t hydrate nearly enough and honestly almost passed out!

→ Note the entrance fee is $5 per car or $1 per individual walk-in — all paid in cash.

Afternoon: Beach and Explore Waikiki

After that early morning hike, fuel up with some acai at da Cove Health Bar and Cafe. If you need something with a bit more substance (or just wanna try all the things), head to Rainbow Drive-In for a Hawaiian plate lunch!

Finally — beach time! Waikiki Beach is one of the most famous beaches in all of Hawaii, and for good reason! 2 miles of soft, white sand, alongside the highrises and backed by palms, make up one of the busiest and most cosmopolitan areas on Oahu. There’s parasailing, boogie boarding, surfing, canoeing, and lots of people watching over here! Or find some sand and just relax with a good book.

Once you’ve had enough of the beach, go for some mai tais at The Royal Hawaiian (our favorite spot!), grab some banana ice cream in a papaya boat at Banan, get a shave ice or two at Waiola Shave Ice, and pose for a pic with the Duke Kahanamoku statue (he’s only “the father of modern surfing”, so, no big deal). :p

But whatever you do, don’t miss indulging in a few malasadas at Leonard’s Bakery. From passionfruit to custard, I always suggest you order a plain glazed, the macadamia nut (my personal fave), a chocolate filled, and one flavor of the day. We’ve been to Oahu more times than I can count, and still dream about the Portuguese donuts once we’re back home in San Francisco. We’ve even toyed with the idea of shipping a box to our house!

Night: Tantalus Lookout for Sunset 

Head up to Tantalus Lookout at Puu Ualakaa State Park for sunset! It’s quite the panoramic show and only about 15 minutes from Waikiki. You can even see striking views of Diamond Head and the Waikiki skyline. Come a bit early (the parking lot isn’t huge), set up a blanket on the grassy lawn, and watch the sky change colors. 

Note that you’ll need to drive up a windy mountain road to get here, so be especially careful on your way back down in the dark. Take it slow!

Day 3: Hanauma Bay Snorkeling + East Oahu

Morning: Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve Snorkeling

First up on day 3 of this Oahu itinerary – snorkeling in the clear, cool waters of Hanauma Bay! Throw on your plastic fins and snorkel, and get ready to see the underwater world teeming with sea life!

Imagine snorkeling in an aquarium – that’s what it feels like over at Hanauma Bay! This pristine and protected marine ecosystem (former volcanic crater) is full of beautiful coral reefs, loads of tropical fish (like the ridiculously colorful parrotfish!), and other sea life. You may even spot a harmless reef shark and/or a green sea turtle if you’re lucky! And it’s great for both beginning and avid snorkelers. 

Before snorkeling in Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, you’ll need to watch a short video in the marine education system. You’ll learn about the marine life, preservation of the park, and rules and safety while snorkeling.

Just remember — you are NOT allowed to touch or walk on any coral (it’s actually a law here in Hawaii!) and NEVER mistreat the marine animals (no chasing/petting/feeding/etc). Also – be sure to have reef safe sunscreen, as other sunscreens are not allowed in the bay.

Some logistics to help plan your visit:

• Hanauma Bay is closed every Monday and Tuesday to help repair the ecosystem and conserve the reef. This is great because it means the fish and bay have 2 days of undisturbed rest!
• Open 8am to 4pm, with no entry after 2pm (night snorkeling was discontinued years ago). Get here early to ensure a parking spot.
• No walk-ins allowed; you must arrive by vehicle
• Entrance fee is $12 per person (with locals and kids free), plus a $3 parking fee
• There is NO rental equipment at the bay, so be sure to bring your own snorkel gear. We like renting from Snorkel Bob’s in Honolulu.

Afternoon: East Oahu

You’ve got quite a few options after snorkeling, all on the east side of Oahu within easy driving distance of Hanauma Bay.

A few ideas:

• If you’re feeling famished and need a quick pick-me-up, head on over to Teddy’s Bigger Burgers (a colorful spot for some creative burgers), Fatboy’s Hawaii Kai (for some poke bowls and plate lunches) and/or Island Brew Coffeehouse (for some high quality Hawaiian coffee and light bites with a view)!

• China Walls and Spitting Cave: Such beautiful views of the Pacific here, with lots of ledges and cliffs making for interesting photography. You may even catch some cliff-jumpers here! Be extra careful during high tide. Worth a quick stop. A great spot for sunset if you’re not interested in a luau.

• Lanai Lookout: Another popular lookout point with panoramic views of the ocean, cliffs, and even neighboring islands! A great place to sit and just watch the waves. Add this to your Oahu itinerary for great views with little effort (my kinda experience :p).

• Koko Crater Railway Trailhead: Put on your hiking boots, it’s hiking time! This steep hike is actually an abandoned railroad track on Koko Crater, with over 1,000 uneven steps (straight up the hill — a great leg workout). There’s little shade, so make sure you slather on the sunscreen, wear a hat, and bring plenty of water. Although I’ve never done this hike myself, I’ve heard that the views from the top are more than worth it! Plan 2-3 hours or so for the hike up and back down.

• Halona Blowhole Lookout and Beach Cove: Wanna watch water shoot 30 feet into the air from a lava tube? Head over to the Halona Blowhole Lookout. It’s absolutely insane. And once you’re done at the blowhole, walk down a short trail to Halona Beach Cove. Don’t miss the secret cave, swimming in the scenic cove, and watching the little crabs on the rocks. 

• Makapu’u Beach and Makapu’u Tide Pools: Another long stretch of white sand, perfect for surfers in the winter (with a strong rip curl) and calm waters for wading around in the summer. Head north a bit to check out the tide pools formed from black lava at the Makapu’u Tide Pools.

• Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail and Lookout: A pretty easy trail to the historic red-roofed lighthouse (built in 1909), being only 2 miles roundtrip. On a clear day, you may even see Moloka’i and Lana’i! And if you’re visiting in winter (November – April), be on the lookout for migrating humpback whales from the trail!

Night: Luau and Dinner

You can’t come all the way to Hawaii and not include a luau on your Oahu itinerary! Luau’s are grand celebrations of food, music, and culture, so what better way to end the night. There’s a whole slew of options to choose from, but no matter which you pick, you’ll be dining on a kalua pig cooked in an imu (oven in the earth), haupia (coconut pudding), and poi (Hawaiian taro). And of course throwing back a few too many cocktails.

Some luaus to choose from: 

• Paradise Cove Luau
• Ka Moana Luau (only luau on the East Side of Oahu)
• Germaine’s Luau
• Diamond Head Luau (farm to table!)
• Polynesian Cultural Center (a favorite of many!)

Day 4: Pillbox Hike and Lanikai Beach

Morning: Pillbox Hike and Lanikai Beach

Pillbox Hike: Wake up early again, we’re going hiking! While not one of the longest trails, the Pillbox hike may be one of the prettiest and historic on this Oahu itinerary. During your trek you’ll stumble upon two colorful and graffiti-covered military bunkers, and witness a stunning panoramic view of Lanikai Beach. And when I say stunning, I mean stunning.

We honestly couldn’t believe just how spectacular the views were — tons of swaying palm trees, crystal clear turquoise water, of course the two mokes (those pointed rocks you see in the photos) jutting out of the water. Once you reach the pillbox, you’ll be rewarded with 360° degree views of all of Lanikai Beach and West Oahu.

Be prepared for some climbing, and I hope your sense of direction is good – we attempted this hike and for some reason couldn’t even figure out which trail we should be on! Although it apparently only takes about 15-20 minutes to reach the first pillbox, prepare for a steep and slippery incline. There’s even ropes at various spots to help with the climbing.

Lanikai Beach: Once you’re done with your sweaty morning hike, off to the beach it is! If you looked up the definition of a white-sand beach, the first thing that would pop up is a photo of Lanikai! Bleached sand, translucent waters, picturesque palm trees – it’s one of those places perfectly crafted for postcards. And you get to visit!

Change into your swimsuit and spend the afternoon dozing on the coast, or taming your adventurous side with kayaking and scuba diving. Just remember there’s very little shade, so don’t forget your sunscreen!

Late Afternoon:  Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden and Byodo-In Temple

Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden: How does 400 acres of tropical plants sound? Honestly – it’s one of the best places in Oahu to see tons of flora and fauna. It’s huge, gorgeous, and not too crowded! And it’s FREE! Don’t miss the lake, the lush lookout points, and unique plant species everywhere (there’s even guava and cacao)! You may even feel like you’re on the Na Pali coastline in Kauai for a hot second! Kinda makes you feel like you’re walking through Jurassic Park.

The Byodo-In Temple: Missing Japan? Head to this replica of an elaborate and historic Japanese Buddhist temple. There’s manicured gardens, tranquil meditation sites, and even a lovely koi pond. Look out for the black swans and peacocks! And it’s only $5 per person for entry.

Night: Haleiwa Joe’s Haiku Gardens for Dinner

You gotta include at least one special dinner on your Oahu itinerary. And not only does the restaurant overlook the beautiful Haiku Gardens and pond, but the food is phenomenal, too!

My recommendation: Go on the earlier side, put your name down, and walk around the gardens while you wait for your table. You’ll feel like you’re eating dinner in Jurassic Park!

Definitely get the prime rib if it isn’t sold out (it’s popular for a reason!).

Psst — there’s actually another location of Haleiwa Joe’s in the actual town of Haleiwa, but I recommend the Kaneohe location at Haiku Gardens instead (the scenery is much more lush and memorable).

Day 5: North Shore + Dole Plantation

We’re getting out of Honolulu again — plan to spend the entire day on the North Shore! There’s honestly so much to do! Do note the North Shore is about 45 minutes from Honolulu, so you’ll wanna get an early start if you wanna see and do lots on this list!

The things to do/see/eat on the North Shore are kinda broken up into two main areas: Haleiwa and the Pupukea area. They’re only about 15 minutes apart, so don’t feel bad if you’re zigzagging a bit.

Read Next: All My Favorites on Oahu’s North Shore (plus everything you need to know)

Here’s my top recommendations:

Dole Plantation Extra Add-On: On your way to Haleiwa from Honolulu, you’ll pass by the Dole Plantation. Make a short stop here to look around the gardens, walk through the maze, and of course have an early-morning pineapple dole whip — beware, it’s pretty sweet! There’s also tons of pineapple treats for purchase (for now or to save for later!). Plan to get here when they open (10am, closed on Wednesdays) so you have the rest of the day to explore the North Shore.

Breakfast: If you’re skipping the Dole Plantation, have some breakfast at either Kono’s Northshore Haleiwa or The Sunrise Shack. Both great options! Make a quick stop at the North Shore Marketplace if you wanna do a bit of shopping!

Relax at Laniakea Beach: Beach time! And get ready — because we’re off to see the sea turtles! If snorkeling isn’t your thing, you can thankfully still see some of these gentle giants on shore just basking in the sun here at Laniakea Beach on Oahu’s North Shore. 

The Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles have been frequenting these sands for decades, so do your part and respect them and their land. It’s illegal to chase, injure, hunt, touch, hold, or harass them in any way. Admire them from afar (use your zoom lens to take photos).

Back to Haleiwa for lunch and a snack: Honestly, even if you’re not terribly hungry, you gotta check out at least 1-2 of these spots. One of my favorite things on the north shore is all the amazing food options, so make some room and indulge a bit!

• Lunch Options:
  • Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck: I betcha know what you’re coming here for, haha. This parking lot establishment is known to be crazy, chaotic, and downright busy, and this seems to deter a few people. BUT the lines will still be long and some even wait for up to an hour and a half. And yes — the shrimp is that good, although we’ve heard it’s not as good as it used to be back in the day.
  • Haleiwa Beach House: Another casual seafood restaurant, but expect some more elevated dishes like surf ‘n’ turf, pupu platters, and colorful cocktails! And plus, it’s located right on the waterfront, making for great lunch views.

• Snack Options:
  • Matsumoto Shave Ice: This place is kinda an institution around here on the North Shore. Yes, it’s a very popular spot and may in fact be wildly crowded, but the shave ice is worth it. I promise x 1000. Always get some ice cream and a snow cap (my favorite).
  • Haleiwa Bowls: Grab an acai bowl from this little thatched kiosk. There’s juices, smoothies, and even cold-brew coffee if you need a little kick of caffeine.

Tidepooling and snorkeling at Shark’s Cove: This rocky coastal area is great for exploring, whether you’re tidepooling and/or snorkeling. I recommend bringing some water shoes as the rocks getting in and out of the water can be quite slippery and sharp!

Watch the sunset at Sunset Beach: It’s one of the best beaches on the island for sunset! It’s popular but there’s lots of space for everyone. And if you really wanna take your sunset to the next level, grab some pie at Ted’s Bakery (we love the chocolate haupia pie the most!).

Psst: If you’re an adrenaline junkie, you may wanna consider going skydiving at the Pacific Skydiving Center (we did this for my 30th birthday!) or even shark cage diving (which we did on my 34th birthday!) today. Both start early near Oahu’s North Shore, so you’ll still have some time for other nearby activities.

I hope this helped you plan out your 5 day Oahu itinerary! Get ready to sip some mai tais and sit in the sun! Bring me back a malasada — pretty please!

The post The Perfect Oahu Itinerary: How to Make the Most of 5 Days in Oahu appeared first on A Passion and A Passport.