A must before any other tour… visit Iolani Palace for a docent lead tour. It is rich in history with absolutely captivating storytellers to guide you through the only palace in the United States. You must make reservations. Next, a visit to Pearl Harbor to see the Arizona, the USS Missouri, and more. Both great for history buffs those just curious about Hawaii and the culture that lives here.

For outdoor beauty and adventure, don’t miss Hanauma Bay for snorkeling or a hike up Diamond Head for breathtaking views (Make sure you have your QR code for entry uploaded before entering the crater). If you love hiking, the AllTrails app is incredibly helpful and consistently updated with accurate trail information.

• For a deeper connection to Hawaiian culture, I highly recommend both the Bishop Museum and the Honolulu Museum of Art with a museum café for a lovely place for lunch. Reservations are encouraged.
• Hawaii Rainbow Tours – is owned and operated by a young entrepreneur local boy Paolo. His family is from Italy and he has found a way to use the body language of Italians and integrate it with his Hawaiian island upbringing for a fantastic blend of fun and knowledge.
• EV GO Hawaii – Take a South Shore tour in a stylish electric cart or rent a EV Jeep. Such a super fun way to see the island. (Make sure to stop at Nene for a cuppa coffee before your tour. 209 Kaʻiulani Ave )
• Liljestrand House – A hidden gem for those who appreciate history, architecture (mid century modern), and design. OR Shangri La to experience the only U. S. museum dedicated to Islamic art. Founded by Doris Duke in the 1930’s. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED FOR BOTH

• After picking up your marriage license at the Department of Health in downtown Honolulu (simple details HERE), consider spending time at Iolani Palace, noted above, followed by a delicious lunch or dinner at Fête. It’s all conveniently located downtown and makes for a relaxed, meaningful day. James Beard Award Winner

• Michel’s at the Colony Surf
• Hau Tree
• Sera in the Ala Moana area with private events available
• Tiki’s Grill & Bar
• Monkey Pod Waikiki
• The OpenTable app is often the easiest way to secure reservations.
• Yelp is great for discovering local favorites.
• Be sure to explore Kapahulu Avenue and Monsarrat Avenue (near the Honolulu Zoo) for some fantastic casual dining bits and delights.

• After picking up your marriage license at the Department of Health in downtown Honolulu (simple details HERE), consider spending time at Iolani Palace, noted above, followed by a delicious lunch or dinner at Fête. It’s all conveniently located downtown and makes for a relaxed, meaningful day. James Beard Award Winner

• On both ends of the Ala Moana Shopping Center
• Pint + Jigger (casual, excellent whiskey selection… I’m not kidding!)
• Eleven in Foodland Supermarket near flower shop (simple elegance)

• Hanakoa Brewing Company (great food too; reservations recommended)
• Honolulu Beerworks
• Howzit Brewing
• Beer Lab HI
• Lokahi Brewing
• Inu Island Ales - Kaneohe Town

• Mānoa Chocolate (wine + local chocolate pairing) Kailua Town

• The Moana Surfrider Banyan Tree Beach Bar for the very best Mai Tai. Try the classic 1944 Mai Tai, more spirit-forward original style or the Sunset Mai Tai, more tropical, colorful, a little playful (passionfruit, pineapple, hibiscus notes)

• Hula’s Bar & Lei Stand
• Bacchus Waikiki
• In Between Waikiki

• Yours Truly in the AC Hotel downtown Honolulu

• Māze - James Beard Award Winner

• Starlight Luau @ the Hilton Hawaiian Village
• Hale Koa Hotel (military id required)
• Moanalua Luau at Sea Life Park
• Toa Luau (very special and more intimate)
• Royal Hawaiian Luau (elevated experience)

Vacation rental options Air BNB or VRBO

Hotels

Queen Kapiolani Hotel (great for group bookings) East end of Waikiki, contact: Julie at jogata@queenkapiolani.com or Large group bookings, click HERE for rates

Turo - Rent local 😊