My Trip to Honolulu: A December to Remember

Day 1: Arrival & Waikiki Sunset

When I stepped out of the airport, I was instantly enveloped by balmy air and tinged by the aroma of plumeria. My hotel, which was near Waikiki Beach, had a great view of the Pacific with gentle waves rolling in toward the shore. Upon check-in, I quickly left the premises to start exploring Kalakaua Avenue, filled with high-end boutiques, surf shops, and performing street entertainers, making for a colorful and vibrant combination! As the sun set on the ocean ahead, the golden hour began and I beamed in delight while sipping a cocktail at my place on Waikiki Beach, watching one of the most magical sunsets I’ve ever seen. The sunset painted the entire horizon a colorful wash of pink, orange, and dark purple reflected in the still water. It was a perfect beginning to my adventure in Hawaii.

Day 2: Pearl Harbor & Diamond Head

My second day in Honolulu focused on history and adventure. My exploration began at the site of a significant part of American and Japanese history — Pearl Harbor. As I wandered through the USS Arizona Memorial, looking down into the water where the remnants of the sunken battleship lay, I was struck by an overwhelming sense of reverence. The visitor center had a great deal of information about December 7, 1941. It was one of the most solemn but also necessary stops, providing important perspective on the resilience of both history and human beings.

From there I headed for the Diamond Head State Monument, one of Oahu’s most dramatic hikes. It was a steep rugged trail carved onto the side of an old volcanic crater, but totally worth the effort. The last leg featured a narrow spiral staircase that opened up to a sweeping panoramic view of Honolulu, the mighty Pacific, and the fertile landscape below. I lingered there a while, drinking in the pure beauty of Hawaii’s natural wonders.

Day 3: Snorkel at Hanauma Bay & Try Local Grinds

Having a deeper appreciation for history and adventure, I spent my third day exploring Oahu’s marine life. Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve was the perfect snorkeling site. Its clear waters were home to stunning coral reefs and a kaleidoscope of fish. It felt like I had entered into a community of a Narnia-like fantasy world of colorful parrotfish and graceful sea turtles swimming around me as I floated in the tranquil bay. After a morning out on the water, I needed food! I stopped in a small restaurant with poke bowls, a Hawaiian dish with fresh ahi tuna, rice, and toppings. Later in the day, I headed over to Leonard’s Bakery, where I had malasadas, Portuguese-style donuts rolled in sugar. As a final treat, I went to Matsumoto Shave Ice, a North Shore staple, and sucked down a refreshing tropical-flavored shave ice that was buried under a mound of condensed milk.

Day 4 — North Shore & Cultural Immersion

Wanting to experience a different side of Oahu, I went on a scenic drive up to the North Shore, an area known for its giant waves and top-notch surfing. At the Banzai Pipeline, I marveled as surfers gracefully rode monstrous swells, weaving in and out of the barrels. The force of the ocean was humbling, a reminder of its master but the soft ocean waves on Waikiki shore.

LUNCH: I pulled over at a roadside food truck in Haleiwa to sample the infamous garlic shrimp plate—juicy shrimp doused in a thick garlic butter sauce and served with rice and a side of pineapple. It was one of the best meals of my entire trip.

That night, I feasted on a luau at the Polynesian Cultural Center, where I learned the traditions of the Pacific Islands. The performances — including hula dancers, fire-knife twirlers, and Polynesian drummers — were hypnotic. I gorged on a traditional Hawaiian spread — kalua pig (slow-roasted in an underground imu), poi (taro root paste), and sweet haupia (coconut pudding). The warmness of hospitality and storytelling turned the night to be unforgettable.

Day 5: Lounge It Up | Lanikai Beach & The Aloha Spirit

On my last day, I chose to take it easy and enjoy every second of paradise. I went to Lanikai Beach, famed for its powdery white sand and placid, turquoise water. The Mokulua Islands were two small islands that formed the perfect backdrop.. a place to relax.

Lying down on the shore, I listened to the tide with no other sound and thought about my experience in Honolulu. The stunning beauty of the landscapes, the sun-kissed warmth of the people, and the wonderful blend of adventure and relaxation had left a mark on me. Initially, I had arrived for the weather, but left with yet another lesson on something much deeper, the Aloha Spirit, a philosophy of treating one another with kindness, harmony, and connection.

Watching the island pass under my plane as it took off, I remembered I’d already missed it. Until next time, Hawaii!

Things to Know Before Visiting Honolulu

Honolulu, the vibrant capital of Hawaii, is a dream destination for many travelers. With its stunning beaches, rich Polynesian culture, and breathtaking landscapes, it’s no surprise that millions visit each year. However, before you go, there are several important things to keep in mind to make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.

1. Best Time to Visit

Honolulu enjoys warm weather year-round, making it an attractive destination in any season. However, if you want to avoid the largest crowds and highest prices, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons—April to May and September to October. These months offer pleasant weather and lower accommodation rates compared to the peak tourist season (December to March). If you’re a surfing enthusiast, winter brings bigger waves to the North Shore, making it an exciting time to visit, but it also means busier beaches and pricier stays.

2. Island Hopping is Not as Easy as It Seems

Many visitors assume that traveling between Hawaiian islands is as simple as taking a ferry. However, there are no inter-island ferries between Oahu and the other major islands (Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island). If you want to explore beyond Oahu, you’ll need to book a domestic flight, which can add to your expenses and travel time. If your main goal is to explore multiple islands, plan your itinerary carefully to account for these flights.

3. Expect High Prices

Hawaii is one of the most expensive travel destinations in the U.S. since nearly everything—food, gas, and goods—has to be imported. Dining out, even at casual restaurants, can be costly, with meals often exceeding $15-$20 per person. To save money, consider trying local food trucks, visiting grocery stores like Foodland or ABC Stores, or taking advantage of happy hour deals at restaurants. Accommodations, especially in Waikiki, can be pricey, so booking in advance or looking for vacation rentals can help you stay within budget.

4. Honolulu’s Traffic Can Be Challenging

Despite being on an island, Honolulu has some of the worst traffic in the U.S., particularly in and around Waikiki and downtown Honolulu. Rush hours (7 AM - 9 AM and 3 PM - 6 PM) can be frustrating, so plan accordingly if you’re driving. Public transportation, such as TheBus, is an affordable alternative and services many tourist areas. For shorter distances, you can rent a bicycle, moped, or use ride-share services like Uber and Lyft to navigate the city more easily.

5. Beach Safety & Etiquette

Hawaii’s beaches are among the most beautiful in the world, but they can also be dangerous if you’re not careful. Many beaches have strong rip currents and high surf, especially during winter on the North Shore. Always pay attention to posted warning signs and never turn your back on the ocean, as rogue waves can catch you off guard.

Additionally, respecting local customs is important. It is illegal to touch or disturb Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu) and Hawaiian monk seals, as they are protected under federal law. Always keep a respectful distance when observing these beautiful creatures. Also, taking sand, rocks, or lava stones from beaches and parks is considered disrespectful and is even believed to bring bad luck, according to local legends.

6. What to Pack & Weather Considerations

Honolulu has a warm, tropical climate, with temperatures typically ranging between 75°F to 85°F (24°C to 29°C). However, light rain showers are common, especially in the mountainous areas and during winter months. A light rain jacket can be useful if you plan to hike or explore beyond the beaches.

One of the most essential things to bring is reef-safe sunscreen, as Hawaii has banned sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate to protect its coral reefs. You’ll also want to pack comfortable walking shoes, especially if you plan to explore trails like Diamond Head or Manoa Falls, where the terrain can be uneven.

7. Learning a Few Local Words Can Go a Long Way

While English is widely spoken in Honolulu, incorporating a few Hawaiian words into your vocabulary can be a fun way to show respect for the local culture. Some basic words and phrases to remember include:

• Aloha – Used as a greeting, farewell, and also as a way to express love and kindness.

• Mahalo – Means “thank you.”

• Ohana – Means “family” (a concept deeply valued in Hawaiian culture).

Understanding and respecting the Hawaiian language and traditions will help you connect better with the locals and enhance your overall experience.

8. Show Respect for Hawaiian Culture and Nature

Hawaii has a rich cultural history, and many of its sites are sacred to Native Hawaiians. When visiting historical landmarks like Iolani Palace, Pearl Harbor, or heiau (ancient Hawaiian temples), be mindful of your behavior and follow any posted rules. Climbing on sacred sites or taking artifacts as souvenirs is strongly discouraged.

Additionally, be considerate when hiking or exploring. Many trails cross private property or lead to culturally significant areas, so always stay on designated paths and obey signs to avoid trespassing. The Hawaiian principle of “malama ‘aina” (caring for the land) is deeply rooted in local culture, and visitors are encouraged to do the same by leaving no trace and respecting nature.

Final Thoughts

Honolulu is a paradise full of adventure, culture, and breathtaking scenery. By planning ahead, respecting the environment, and embracing the local way of life, you’ll have a truly unforgettable trip. Whether you're relaxing on Waikiki Beach, hiking up Diamond Head, or indulging in a plate of garlic shrimp from the North Shore, Honolulu offers experiences you won’t soon forget.

Useful information of Honolulu