When to visit
The best time to visit Honolulu and the southern side of the island is during the April–May or September–October shoulder seasons. You'll get fewer crowds than during the busy summer vacation months or during the high season, which runs from Thanksgiving through the end of March. If you want to come earlier in the year, consider visiting in March, when the annual Honolulu Festival, which celebrates Asian and Pacific cultures with entertainment, food, and a parade, is held.
Getting around
Having a rental car in Honolulu can be helpful if you want to explore other parts of the island. You’ll find plenty of options at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport. That said, downtown Honolulu and its suburbs are easy to get around without a car. You can easily get around Waikiki using the Waikiki Trolley, which operates trolley-style and double-decker hop-on hop-off buses geared to visitors. One ticket gives you access to 35 stops served by four lines.
You can also rely on public buses. If you opt to try the public bus system, known as “TheBus,” make sure to get a HOLO card in advance. They’re sold at ABC Stores, 7-Eleven, and other select retailers. The HOLO card works like a debit card and is what you’ll tap to pay for your fare. Rideshares and taxis are also widely available, although they’re the most expensive option. A rideshare from the airport to Waikiki Beach will cost around US$40 for the 25-minute ride.
Traveler tips
Eating out in Honolulu can be expensive, particularly if you want a healthy meal. Head to Down to Earth Organic & Natural on South King Street near University Avenue for high-quality food at non-restaurant prices. This grocery store has a deli inside where you'll find all sorts of grab-and-go treats along with healthy, made-to-order deli foods, smoothies, and fresh juices. Unless it’s raining outside, it’s hard to top a picnic at Diamond Head State Monument and the area’s scenic state parks.
For the most part, Waikiki is a family-friendly beach with gentle, rolling waves that make it a great place to learn how to surf. On the contrary, the North Shore is where you’ll find expert surfers hanging ten. Regardless of which beach in Honolulu or on Oahu you decide to swim at, make sure to pay attention to posted signs and flags. Every year, far too many tourists have to be rescued because they swam in unsafe conditions.
