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.

Hyatt Regency Waikīkī Resort & Spa

An elaborate atrium with cascading waterfall joins the two 40-story towers of this impressive resort in the center of Waikïkï. Chinese and Italian food lovers will be sated at the fun Ciao Mein restaurant.
Indigo

Beautifully renovated Chinatown spot with an award-winning Eurasian restaurant, crowded terrace bar, and the Opium Den – a hip champagne bar.
Indigo Eurasian Cuisine

Chef Glenn Chu has created a high-tone, pan-Asian restaurant, split between a cool, restrained dining room and a more casual patio.
International Market Place

The 50+-year-old Market Place, originally a fanciful shopping area and cultural park, is undergoing a $150 million renovation project through 2007. Expect pathways beneath spreading trees and across ponds that recall the area’s illustrious past, when it was Queen Emma’s garden. Performance areas, a low-rise shopping and food hall, and spots for hula, artisans, and storytellers are also planned.
Ipu

A hollowed-out gourd that, in skilled hands, is used to keep the beat in hula.
Island Colony Hotel

One of the tallest buildings in Waikīkī, this no-frills hotel overlooks the Ala Wai Canal along which walkers and joggers take their daily exercise. There are studio suites with kitchenettes, one-bedroom units with full kitchens, even the regular rooms have refrigerators and coffee makers.
Island Treasures Art Gallery

Kailua Koa wood craft, lauhala (woven pandanus) creations, and ceramics are among the treasures for sale here, alongside works by local artists.
J & B’s Haven

Run by a mother/ daughter team, this beautiful house has two comfortable rooms for guests. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide mountain views and two dogs add to the atmosphere. Smoking is not permitted. Continental breakfast is included.
Jack’s Restaurant

Stop by this compact neighborhood spot to discover Jack’s giant Special Biscuits, breakfast until 2pm, and freshly made local plates.
James Campbell

An early sugar baron who died in 1900; his estate is valued at over $2 billion dollars.

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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