DK Travel : Honolulu & O’ahu

O’ahu is the most populous of the Hawaiian islands, and its conjoined hubs are the city of Honolulu and the world-famous Waikīkī Beach. The vast majority of visitors make Waikīkī their base, venturing out on day trips to take in Honolulu’s many cultural attractions, Pearl Harbor, and other parts of the island. The family-friendly beaches and parks of the South hore and Kāne’ohe District are in striking distance of Honolulu, while diehard surfers head for the North Coast. The Polynesian Cultural Center is also an easy day trip from the city.

Guided Hikes

Three non-profit groups, the Sierra Club (538 6616), the Nature Conservancy (587 6220), and Hawaiian Trail and Mountain Club (674 1459), offer frequent hikes with the last group definitely on the hardier side.
Guitar

Whether slack-key, steel, acoustic, or electric, the guitar is essential to Hawaiian music.
Gulick Delicatessen & Coffee Shop

The quintessential plate lunch place, with piled-high specials daily.
Haku

Flowers, leaves, or fruit are braided onto three strands of ti or other natural fiber. Haku lei are most often worn around the head or on a hat.
Halekulani

Located on the beach, the Halekulani defines elegance. It has manicured tropical grounds, tastefully simple decor, a spa, superb cuisine at La Mer, and its signature “orchid pool.”
Hale’iwa Ali’i

A popular beach park for family picnics, swimming, and surfing offshore at Pua’ena Point. The site has restrooms, a shady pavilion, plenty of food concessions, lifeguards, and sports fields too.
Hale’iwa Ali’i Beach Park & Hale’iwa Beach County Park

These parks flank each other on either side of the Anahulu River, and if they look familiar it’s because they were a primary set for Baywatch Hawai’i. Ali’i Park features a boat ramp and is popular for fishing and surfing. Across the river, Hale’iwa Beach offers safe swimming and is an excellent place for a family party or picnic.
Hale’iwa Art Gallery

George Atkins’ gallery has original works by more than 30 Pacific Island artists, ranging from the neo-realism of Mark Cross to the abstracts of Mihoko M.
Hale’iwa Joe’s

Call to Joe’s isn’t reserved for a wedding – neighboring Ha’ikū Gardens does a booming bride-and-groom business. If open, expect steaks, seafood, and sandwiches.
Hale’iwa Joe’s Seafood Grill

With a view of Hale’iwa harbor from its patio, the restaurant specializes in “boat drinks” and fresh fish.

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Hotel price categories

For a standard, double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes and extra charges.
- under $100
- $100–$200
- $200–$300
- $300–$400
- over $400
Restaurant price categories

Price categories include a three-course meal for one, a glass of house wine, and all unavoidable extra charges including tax.
- under $20
- $20–$30
- $30–$45
- $45–$60
- $over $60