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.

Queen Lili’uokalani

Hawai’i’s last and one of its most beloved monarchs (see Capitol District & Queen Lili’uokalani’s Room). Her government was overthrown in 1893.
Queen Lili’uokalani Protestant Church

Queen Lili’uokalani was part of this congregation when she visited her summer home in Hale’iwa. Though the present structure dates only from 1961, a century-old moon-phase clock she gave to the church is proudly displayed. The church is famed for its annual fundraising lū’au feast each August.
Quilting

Among the many traditions brought by the missionaries was quilting. Not surprisingly, Hawaiian women took to the art form and made it their own, replacing New England designs with gorgeous renderings of local flora and fauna.
Radisson Waikīkī Prince Kūhiō

A short two-block walk to Kūhiō Beach, this hotel has rooms that are simply and tastefully decorated. There’s Hawaiian music in the lobby lounge.
Renaissance ’Ilikai Waikīkī

Conveniently located between Waikīkī and Ala Moana Center, the guest rooms here are spacious and situated in two towers with views of Ala Wai Yacht Harbor and the ocean. Sarento’s Top of the “I” restaurant is a popular dining spot. Kids will enjoy the video game room.
Roadside Stands

Watch for charming roadside stands near Waimānalo. They sell fresh kahuku corn, fruits, chilled coconuts, tropical flowers, fresh or dried fish, and such ethnic specialties as pasteles (Puerto Rican tamales) and poke (raw fish and seaweed salad).
Rosie’s Cantina

Big, frosty margaritas to quench the thirst alongside tacos, enchiladas, and tostadas to satisfy the appetite.
Roughage Wholefoods

Veggie heaven on Kuhio Avenue just off the main drag. If you're sick of the same old chain restaurant fodder - this place is a must. Mainly vegetarian and vegan (although they do do some meat dishes) with a wholefood shop attached. The food is fresh, healthy and reasonably priced. Their smoothies are utterly divine and the staff are wonderfully friendly. They will also prepare you a meal for your flight at no extra cost. Weirdly, it turns into a sushi restaurant at night! An Oasis in a sea of mass produced muck!
Royal Garden at Waikīkī

At the Ala Moana edge of Waikīkī, the Royal Garden is a gem of a boutique hotel with beautiful rooms, tropical gardens, pool, fitness center, and two award-winning restaurants.
Royal Hawaiian Hotel

The beloved “Pink Palace of the Pacific” has been a Waikīkī landmark since it opened in 1927. The stucco exterior, the interior decor, even the towels are pink here. Its Modern Wing is slightly pricier; many would say the Historic Wing has more charm.

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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