Luckily, walking to Diamond Head from Waikiki is fun, and fairly easy. Diamond Head hike hours are pretty broad, allowing for visits from early morning to late afternoon.

Plus…it’s almost free! How many world famous attractions do you know of that are free? 

​

Waikiki to Diamond Head Routes

There are two possible routes to Diamond Head from Waikiki. Either route can be made into a half day trip, combining the Diamond Head hike from Waikiki with a visit to the zoo or aquarium.

​The shorter, more popular route which takes you along the inland side of Diamond Head, and a longer, but definitely more appealing route along the ocean, which is the one we took. 

Very few people take this latter route, but we are very happy we did. The well paved road meanders comfortably up the slopes of the hill reaching the base of the crater, time at which a short tunnel will lead you into the park.

Diamond Head Hike Directions

Contrary to what we thought- and most people think- the trail that leads to the top of Diamond Head is not on the side that faces Honolulu, but on the back.

We learned this as we were getting closer to it when walking from Waikiki Beach while passing all sorts of Oahu beach rentals and hotels, and despite the heat decided to continue on our own and enjoy the nice walk.

Waikiki Beach to the Aquarium

Whichever route you take, the first half of the Diamond Head walk will be the same. The Fort Derussy Beach Park is as good a place as any to start your walk.

Take note of the Hawaii Army Museum Society, which is located in the park itself. Assuming you’re starting out early, you’re better off hitting up the museum on the return trip if possible.

It’s definitely worth it for the preserved beach-side artillery pieces, along with other WWII relics stored in the museum – especially given that entry is free.

Honolulu Zoo to Diamond Head Walk Waikiki

You’ll know you’re about half way there when you get to the public art piece "Makua and Kila".

Anyone who grew up in Hawaii knows the children's book Makua Lives on the Beach, a cute story about respect and love.

Overlooking the southern end of Kuhio Beach, a bronze tribute to the story features the surfer, Makua, and the monk seal, Kila. It makes for some good photos, and is just opposite the Waikiki Wall, which has more great views at sunset. 

Otherwise, cross the road and consider paying a visit to the Honolulu Zoo, which has over 900 animals for the kids to gawk at.

Once you’re finished, you’ll finally have to make the decision of whether to take the shorter inland route to Diamond Head, or enjoy the coastal views.

Either way, the distance from Waikiki to Diamond Head is around 3-4 miles. 

How to get to diamond head from here will depend on which route you take, inland or coastal. In any case, the walk to diamond head from Waikiki is very doable.

Waikiki to Diamond Head Via the Inland Route

After the zoo, steer left down Monsarrat Avenue, which runs between the flank of the zoo and the pleasant Kapi'olani Regional Park.

Look out on the left for the informal gathering of artists who string their works up from the zoo fence. This is a good place to come on weekends if you’re interested in some alt-of-the-earth local art.

A little further up on the right, you’ll pass the Waikiki Shell, a popular spot for live music and cultural events.

There’s a good chance you’ll be coming back here at some point during your trip for evening entertainment, so don’t forget to check what’s on as you’re going past.

The rest of the inland route continues to follow Monsarrat Avenue, which eventually turns into Diamond Head road.

When you see the KCC Farmers’ Market on your left, you’ll know you’re just a few meters from the northern entrance to the Diamond Head Monument, which takes a sharp turn on your right.

After the hike, consider visiting a few of the attractions near the northern gate, such as the pretty Lēʻahi Millennium Peace Garden and Diamond Head Memorial Park.

The latter is a peaceful place to pay tribute to the fallen, so bring some flowers.

Waikiki to Diamond Head Via the Coastal Route

Just past the Honolulu Zoo, you’ll see Monsarrat Avenue arching to your left, while Kalakaua Avenue dips directly south. You’ll know you’re going the right way if you pass the statue of Queen Kapiʻolani, the second last monarch of Hawaii.

The road continues all the way to the southern-most tip of Diamond Head. Along the way, you’ll pass the Waikiki Aquarium and some nearby public art.

Just past the aquarium on the right, you’ll see a distinctly early 20^th Century open-air beach-side pool, the War Memorial Natatorium.

Somewhat neglected, there are efforts among the local community to restore this historic building. For now, makes for some good photography.

Afterwards, don’t forget to take a left on either Poni Moi Road or Coconut Avenue. Each will intersect with Diamond Head Road, which will take you the rest of the way to the entrance.

The Diamond Head Hike

Did you know that the U.S. government purchased Diamond Head Crater for military use in 1904?

Fortification of the crater began four years later with the construction of gun emplacements and an entry tunnel through the north wall of the crater from Fort Ruger known as the Kapahulu Tunnel.

Five batteries were built on Diamond Head Crater to house military weapons and artillery, and additional defense was provided by long range guns installed on the outer slopes of the crater rim around 1915.

Yet despite all the engineering and costs no artillery was ever fired from Diamond Head crater during a war.

Entering the park costs 1 USD if walking or 10 USD if getting there by car or van. It is open from 6am to 6 pm, there are public toilets, vending machines and a lunch wagon with food if you want to eat something.

I highly recommend you bring some water with you.

While the crater is only 232m high, once you reach the park the slopes to the top of the crater become steep and tiring, perhaps due more to the lack of a breeze than the terrain itself, and it is when the Diamond Head hike actually becomes a hike. Luckily, the Diamond Head hike distance is fairly short

The last 160 m are all stairs and especially steep, but the site is accessible to those with disabilities near the visitor booth. It’s definitely one of the easiest to reach hikes near Waikiki.

The trail is well marked and you’ll find of tourists walking up and down while there so it will be impossible for you to get lost. The Diamond Head trail length is only around 1.6 miles.

Reaching the top is an accomplishment one anxiously is waiting for during the last ten minutes, as the stairs become steep and finding your way through the concrete structure inadvertently mean you’re about to reach the top.

The air becomes cooler, the path becomes narrower and once you walk outside the views are second to none.

On your left you will distinctly spot Diamond Head lighthouse with its red roof, on peak of the crater a machine gun appears to be safeguarding Honolulu without- oddly- being out of place and the surf roles gently toward Waikiki beach in the distance.

Plan Your Trip to Oahu

PIN THIS POST

What Species of Turtles Can You See in Oahu's Beaches?

The two types of Hawaiian sea turtles in Oahu most frequently seen in Turtle Bay are the green sea turtle and the hawksbill sea turtle.

The green sea turtle is listed as a threatened species under federal and state law.

Fortunately Hawaiian green sea turtles have shown a good population recovery in recent years, although they are still plagued with a papilloma virus that causes disfiguring tumors. Hawksbill sea turtles are sighted much less frequently than the greens.

How can you tell them apart?

Green turtles are the only herbivorous you'll find in the ocean, and if the one you happen to see is not eating  look at its mouth. If it looks something like a bird's beak you're looking at a Hawksbill turtle.

Unfortunately for these turtles their shell is so beautiful that this turtle is often hunted for it.

Turtle Watching Etiquette

Should You Join a Turtle Watching Tour?

Yet it's the family destination you’ll always do next year, because flights are too expensive, hotels are booked, or everyone just doesn’t have the time to fly out to the middle of the Pacific Ocean.

The thing is, Hawaii doesn’t need to be put in the too-good-to-be-real basket. These remote islands aren’t as impossible to do on a budget as you may think.

While it’s true that Hawaii will never exactly be an economical destination, it’s definitely possible to cut costs while still enjoying the most the archipelago has to offer.

Having said that, be prepared to accept there are some stubborn costs you’ll inevitably have to handle for a Hawaii vacation. One such cost is …

Flying to Hawaii

Unsurprisingly, a remote island chain in the middle of the Pacific Ocean isn’t the cheapest place to fly to. Prices are particularly bad from November to New Year, when Hawaii’s peak season sees mainlanders flocking to the beaches to escape the cold.

September is also an expensive time to fly to the Hawaiian islands due to the extremely popular Aloha Festival. If you’re traveling to Hawaii for this event, consider arriving as early as possible to save money. It simply isn’t the best time to visit Hawaii.

Otherwise, wait until late January or February for prices to drop on flights to Hawaii.

From North America, United and WestJet both regularly offer good deals during during the low season, while AirAsia is a good airline to keep an eye on if you’re traveling from Asia or Oceania.

With these companies expect to pay around $100 a day, plus be prepared to seriously burn your budget on some of the nation’s highest fuel costs.

You might be able to shave off a few bucks with your Costco, AAA or AARP membership, and by opting for the cheapest vehicle available. Less fuel efficient large vehicles tend to have the cheapest upfront rental costs, which is a small consolation for families.

If you’re dead-set on renting a car, consider something like Turo, an AirBnB-style peer-to-peer car rental service. Unlike Hawaii’s inflated AirBnB market, Turo can deliver prices significantly lower than its conventional competitors.

Shrewd travelers, however, will prepare their own food. If you don’t go straight to Walmart, then consider taking a trip to the KCC Saturday Farmers’ Market. Held every Saturday morning, this is Honolulu’s largest market, and a good place to pick up quality seafood for reasonable prices.

If you’re willing to invest some time in exploring this lively farmers market, there are plenty of good deals to be had. Stick with local products as much as possible, such as Hawaii’s delicious guavas.

As you explore, keep an eye out for ono grinds – Hawaiian-style cheap eats that are extremely popular among locals, and for good reason. They’re cheap, easy and can be outright delicious.

Anyone in Oahu shouldn't skip on a trip to Gina’s BBQ for its unique take on Korean Kalbi short ribs. Expect some seriously tangy ribs.

In Waikiki you've got McDonald's and Burger King on Kalakaua Avenue overlooking the ocean with combos at 6 USD, buffets starting at 20 USD, plenty of nice restaurants of all kinds where plates run at 15 USD, the list goes on. 

But of all the places we found there are two we kept returning to that I highly recommend: the food court at the International Market Place and Duke's, right on Waikiki Beach.

The International Market Place is the place where you'll find all the souvenirs you'll want to take back home and more. Located between Kuhio Boulevard and Kalakaua Avenue it has plenty of stalls and shops where you'll find everything from aloha shirts to ukeleles...  

And then there is the food court at the center, open 6 pm to 10 pm where you'll find all sorts of exquisite food including Vietnamese, Korean, Japanese, Hawaiian, Chinese, Filipino plus pizzas, burgers and the rest with most dishes at around 8-9 USD. Fantastic flavors at very fair prices...and portions are generous too!

If you want to kick it up a notch and enjoy a great atmosphere plus good food without paying over your head then make your way to Duke's. This very successful restaurant is right on Waikiki beach and is reached though a passage from Kalakaua Avenue.

Despite being rated the #1 restaurant in the US on Yelp back in 2014, this place hasn’t forgotten its roots, and remains an affordable option that largely caters to a local crowd.

Things to Do in Hawaii on a Budget

While planning a trip to Hawaii, bear in mind that food, transport and accommodation are all expensive on the islands – so you’re probably expecting more bad news when it comes to the best things to do in Hawaii on a budget.

Alas, there’s finally some good news for budget travelers planning a trip to Hawaii: the best things to do in Hawaii are all either cheap or entirely free. 

Just pick any of Hawaii’s glorious public beaches, and you’ve got a day of fun that needn’t cost anything more than the price of a bus ticket. Gear rental is competitive on most beaches, so shop around and you should be able to find a decent deal on a board or snorkeling gear (you might as well bring your own!).

When you get hungry, its usually easy to pick up some cheap and easy ono grinds to fill your belly.

If you somehow get bored of Hawaii’s world class beaches, then head inland for some incredible outdoor adventure opportunities.

Kaua‘i island’s famed Koke‘e State Park has days of hiking trails through tropical rainforest, not to mention the awe-inspiring walk over Kalalau Valley. This is arguably the best place anywhere in the archipelago to experience native Hawaiian flora and fauna, including diverse birdlife and opportunities for trout fishing. Best of all, entrance is free! Parking will likely set you back around $5-10, and camping sites are available for around $12.

These sites are extremely basic, though this is arguably the best Hawaiian island for kids.

Back in civilization, Hawaii loves to share its vibrant culture with visitors, and there’s no shortage of free/cheap events throughout the year.

A good place to start is the Royal Hawaiian Center in Honolulu, which always has upcoming cultural events open to the public. As one of Hawaii’s largest shopping malls, it’s also a good place to hang with locals, particularly on weekends.

Check their cultural program for upcoming events. Some common activities include ukulele classes, hula dancing and lei-making.

Then in the evening, head over to Kuhio Beach for the almost-daily free hula and torch lighting shows.

Meanwhile on Fridays, the Hilton Hawaiian Village puts on a free fireworks show, which can be a lot of fun for the whole family.

Whatever you end up doing, there's no shortage of things to do in Hawaii on a budget.

Extra Hawaii Budget Travel Tips

• Deciding which Hawaiian island isn’t easy, but avoid island hopping as much as possible if you're trying to do Hawaii the cheapest way. Moving islands will quickly drain your budget if you're trying to do Hawaii on the cheap, so stay on one island if you can.
• There’s no best island in Hawaii as each has it's own character: some might like on, others will prefer another.
• As with all budget travel, you should make sure to plan your trip in the low season. April to June see the best bargains for anyone looking to do a budget Hawaii vacation. In terms of price, these months represent the cheapest time to fly to Hawaii. 
• All inclusive Hawaii packages aren't necessarily the best way to do Hawaii on a budget. Although it's definitely possible to occasionally pick up Hawaii vacation packages on the cheap around June, you're often still better planing and traveling to Hawaii on a budget alone.
• Hawaii weather is best from April through to September, when temperatures are warm and skies clear.

Conclusion

Hawaii is expensive, yes, but if you do your research it doesn't have to be more expensive than tourist cities like San Francisco, New York or Miami. In fact I was surprised that you can actually get by with less money than what you think.

Sure, accommodation will almost certainly be one of the biggest hurdles, but there are ways around it. Check Airbnb, or look online for apartment rental companies that are not on this site. 

You should be fine when it comes to food, and if you get around with public transportation or rent a cheap car you'll find that you can spend more than what you thought on fun activities.

​

Plan Your Hawaii Trip on  Budget

Here, however, is this fantastic Oahu itinerary with the best attractions around the island, all of which can be done if you spend (at least) 3 days in Oahu – provided you’re ready for a packed itinerary. If you have one week, even better.

Day 1: Downtown Honolulu and Waikiki Beach

Hawaii’s capital is more than just its famed Waikiki Beach. Sure, this two mile stretch of summer excitement will likely take up much of your time in Hawaii, but at some point you really ought to dust off the sand and explore the city itself during your first day in Oahu.

Along with being the largest city anywhere in the Polynesian region, Honolulu is both lively and easy to get around.

Regular public transport, friendly locals and its status as the second safest city in the US make Honolulu a great base of operations for a family vacation.

USS Arizona Memorial

Your Honolulu itinerary starts at a memorial that not only serves as a good place to begin not only an exploration of the city, but also Hawaii’s complex history.

Don’t be surprised if chills run down your spine at the site of America’s first casualties of World War II. In the morning of December 7, 1941, the crew of the USS Arizona were sent scrambling by an air raid alarm. Barely, five minutes later, the battleship was pummeled by the first wave of Japanese bombers.

One of the shells hit the Arizona’s forward magazines, causing a massive explosion that rattled the nearby naval base at Pearl Harbor. The sinking of the USS Arizona killed over 2000 sailors, marines and civilians, representing both the start of the Pearl Harbor historic battle, and the first American deaths in the largest conflict in human history.

Today, the USS Arizona remains exactly where it sank beneath the waves in 1941. In 1962, a memorial complex was constructed over the sunken wreck.

Designed by Honolulu architect Alfred Preis, the memorial doesn’t touch the wreck itself, but nonetheless allows visitors to get as close as possible to the historic battleship.

At this point, you’re probably scratching your head as to how exactly you’re supposed to actually get to a shipwreck in the middle of the ocean.

The only way to get to the memorial is from the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center at Arizona Memorial Place in Honolulu. The center hosts its own museum, along with serving as a stop for regular boats that ferry visitors out to the USS Arizona wreck. The boats are operated by the navy, and are free.

Speaking of costs, visiting the entire USS Arizona Memorial shouldn’t cost you a cent. Along with the boat ride, a guided visit includes a short documentary on the USS Arizona, along with a visit to the memorial over the wreck.

In total, expect the whole experience to take around an hour and a half.

Tickets are free, and can be obtained from the visitor center on arrival. However, due to limited space on the boats, the wait can be pretty long – especially during peak season.

 To ensure you get a spot, you can book as much as two months in advance. The booking can be made for free online at the official website. This attraction is highly recommended, representing one of the most important Pearl Harbor historic sites.

Pacific Aviation Museum

This museum devotes itself to the air war between the U.S. and Japan during World War II, and may not be suitable for young kids.

Opened in late 2006, it has lots of high-end Bush-era military museum technology, including subsonic explosion effects that simulate the bombing of Pearl Harbor, and flight simulators that allow you to spend 20 minutes in aerial combat as either a U.S. Navy Wildcat or a Japanese Zero.

Speaking of Zeroes, the museum has two: one displayed on a full scale replica of a Japanese aircraft carrier flight deck, and the other is a salvaged wreck that lay on the Hawaiian island of Ni'ihau for 65 years.

USS Bowfin Submarine Museum

One year after the Battle of Pearl Harbor dragged the USA into World War II, the USS Bowfin was launched from Hawaii. The submarine was immediately thrown into service in the war in the Pacific.

The sub’s first mission was a secret operation to transport supplies across open waters from Australia to guerrilla fighters in the Philippines.

For the rest of the war, the USS Bowfin participated in patrols across the Pacific, and today remains one of the best preserved American submarines of the era.

Located just next door to the USS Arizona Memorial Visitor Center, the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum allows visitors to explore both the submarine and its history, not to mention get a taste for the gritty, claustrophobic lives of World War II-era submarine crews. Tickets cost $15 for adults, and $7 for children.

National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific

A trip to the USS Arizona should definitely be followed by a solemn visit to the Punchbowl Cemetery.

Officially known as the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, this historic site gets its more commonly used name, the Punchbowl, due to its location in the intriguingly-shaped Punchbowl Crater.

The cemetery itself serves as the resting place of over 25,000 Americans who gave their lives in World War II, along with the Korean and Vietnamese wars.

No Oahu trip is complete without a visit here.

Iolani Palace

The last sightseeing stop of the day is perhaps the most decadent. Learn more about Hawaii’s fascinating history with a visit to the Iolani Palace. Between 1795 and 1893, Hawaii was ruled by a monarchy under two successive dynasties. 

For much of this time, the spectacular ʻIolani Palace served as the royal residence, and the political heart of the Hawaiian Kingdom. After the overthrow of the last monarch of Hawaii, Queen Liliʻuokalani, the palace functioned as the headquarters of the provisional government, before becoming the islands’ state capitol building until 1978.

Today, the historic building serves as a museum, with exhibitions highlighting the story of the Hawaiian monarchy. It’s also the only royal palace anywhere in the United States.

The ʻIolani Palace is located in downtown Honolulu, and hosts regular cultural events.

After hitting up these sites, you should be approaching sundown. This is the perfect time to head over to Waikiki Beach to catch the sunset, or consider an Oahu tour from the beach.

There’s nowhere in particular to go, as Waikiki is best enjoyed with a rambling stroll that takes in the chaos of this wildly popular beach. 

Live performances, food and endless opportunities for watersports await.

Once you start getting tired, one good target to aim for is Queen’s Beach, where regular nightly film screenings take place on a 1000-foot screen on the sand itself.

Otherwise, meander over to the Hilton Hawaiian Village for the Friday night fireworks.

Day 2: Eastern Oahu

For day two, you’ll be heading out of Honolulu along the Kalaniana’ole Highway, with your first stop being America’s favorite beach.

Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve

America has always loved Hanauma Bay so much it hurts – literally. Once reserved for Hawaiian royalty, in the boom years after World War II Hanauma Bay became something of a national sensation.

This glorious arc of white sand and turquoise waters enchanted holiday makers from the mainland. At the height of Hanauma mania, the beach was receiving in excess of 3 million visitors each year – and it came at a cost.

Years of neglect and overuse resulted in severe degradation of the shoreline and native ecosystem, resulting in Hanauma Bay’s once-prized reputation being tarnished. Things finally began to change in the early 1990s, when a major rehabilitation effort was undertaken.

Today, years of effort have paid off. The new Hanauma Bay has been restored to its ancient glory, not to mention adored with improvements such as the Marine Education Center.

Marine wildlife has bounced back, and the bay makes for some of the best snorkeling anywhere in Hawaii. Eels, octopuses and a myriad of tropical fish can all be seen.

While this is all good news, it’s worth noting that Hanauma Bay does impose some restrictions to ensure the beach never falls into neglect again.

• The parking lot has around 300 spaces, and once they’re taken no more vehicles are allowed in.
• Expect the lot to fill up anywhere between 8-10am.
• Parking costs only $1, though entry to the bay itself will cost you an additional $7.50.
• The beach is closed once a week (at the time of writing this was every Tuesday), to give the ecosystem a break from the constant flow of visitors.
• Snorkeling gear can be hired on the beach, but expect to pay a premium.
• Bring your own gear if you can.

To get to Hanauma Bay either take a private vehicle or from Waikiki you can ride the #22 all the way to the main entrance. The trip will take you around 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

If you’re in a rush to get there early, a cab will cost around $50 each way. However you get to Hanauma Bay, try your best to get in as early as possible. Along with the afore-mentioned visitor limits, the reality is that by midday the beach itself can feel more like a fairground than a tropical island paradise.

So if you’d actually like to savor your time at Hanauma Bay, aim to arrive as close as possible to 6am, when the beach opens. Be prepared to leave around lunchtime or mid-afternoon, depending on how well you tolerate crowds.

Lastly, don’t forget to bring reef safe sunscreen. Conventional sunscreens that include oxybenzone and octinoxate are banned throughout Hawaii, and this rule is taken somewhat seriously around Hanauma Bay.

After finishing up at Hanauma Bay around mid afternoon, you have two choices. Either return to Honolulu for one of Hawaii’s best hikes, or consider a side-trip northwards for some sightseeing and a beachside barbecue at Kualoa.

Diamond Head Hike

Oahu’s most popular hike rewards visitors with one of the island’s best panoramic views.

From the top, you can see everything from Waikiki to Koko Head and Waianae. On a clear day you can easily spend more time at the top gawking at the view than actually hiking.

In fact, Diamond Head has in the past been recognized for the world’s longest recorded land views – so needless to say, there’s a lot to see, and this is no coincidence.

This lookout was originally developed in 1908 to observe the coastline and approaches to Fort Rugur. For decades, the summit bristled with artillery and concrete bunkers, though today the most interesting sight is the big, gaping Diamond Head crater created by an eruption around 300,000 years ago.

As for the hike itself, it actually isn’t as challenging as it may initially appear. Starting from the eastern side, visitors walk through a tunnel directly into the crater, before starting the steep ascent to the summit.

The ascent features stretches of early-mid 20^th Century fortifications, including a bunker near the top that opens out onto the lookout. In total, expect to spend around two hours getting to the summit and back.

Kualoa Regional Park

If you want to enjoy some of Hawaii’s natural scenery without breaking a sweat at Diamond Head, then consider heading out to Kualoa Regional Park for an afternoon.

Historically, Hawaiian chiefs brought children to this scenic beach to educate them about their language and culture.

Today, the park is Oahu’s most popular picnic spot. This slice of tropical tranquility features wide open areas with beach views, punctuated with palm trees and picnic tables.

Camping is possible, and walks around the park are both accessible and easy-going.

Apart from the white beaches and emerald mountains inland, there’s not much in terms of attractions here – with the notable exception of the nearby Mokoli'i Island. 

More commonly known as Chinaman’s Hat, this pointy outcrop is just offshore, and makes for a nice backdrop to a weekend barbecue with the family.

While Kualoa is peaceful on land, be aware that the waters offshore are generally unfit for swimming. While they may look calm from the north shore, the shallow waters here can suddenly become pretty deep during high tide, when currents become unpredictable at best, outright dangerous at worst.

People have drowned here in the past while trying to swim to and from Chinaman’s Hat.

On the way home, consider tossing in a side-trip to the nearby Kualoa Ranch, which features family-friendly entertainment.

Day 3: Northern Oahu

For your final day, you’ll be heading out to the north of the island, bound for one of the best things to do in Oahu, the Polynesian Cultural Center.

Manoa Falls

After 3 days in Hawaii, you’re probably feeling a bit exhausted. Having said that, if you get up early, try starting the day in Honolulu with this fantastic hike.

Easy to get to and definitely worth the hike, Manoa Falls tumble 150 feet down a sheer rock face. Given its proximity to downtown Honolulu, you’ll likely be surprised by how wild this place gets.

The trail itself is well maintained, but winds through impenetrable jungle that only occasionally opens for stunning views of the island landscape beyond. It all looks just a tad prehistoric, and it’s easy to imagine a velociraptor or T-rex hiding among the chaotic undergrowth.

Indeed, this trail actually served as a set for a handful of scenes in 1993’s Jurassic Park. More recently, it was featured in a few episodes of the TV series Lost.

At the time of writing, this popular hiking trail had recently been closed for maintenance, so it may be worth double checking in advance before setting out for this rewarding half-day walk.

To reach the trail head, make your way to the end of Manoa Road, and look for the signs. A parking area is available, costing $5 a vehicle. Bring waterproof shoes and a light rain jacket, as this trail can get pretty muddy.

If you’re still on your feet after the hike, consider tossing in a side-trip to the nearby Lyon Arboretum and Botanical Garden. These pleasant gardens have a focus on the preservation of endangered, native Hawaiian flora.

Dole Plantation

After stretching your legs, it’s time to start the long drive northwards. Located just outside the northern town of Wahiawa, the Dole Plantation is a tribute to Hawaii’s historic pineapple industry.

 Learn about Hawaii’s fruit economy while enjoying activities like the Pineapple Garden Maze, Pineapple Express Train and the plantation tour. It’s all light-hearted stuff, and makes for a solid half day that’s perfect for families.

From Waikiki it’s around a 40 minute drive, and public transport is available from the nearby town of Wahiawa. If you have the time, this plantation makes for a good side-trip to break up the drive out to the Polynesian Cultural Center.

In fact, if you’d like to break up the trip even further, consider a pit stop at the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, located just outside Honolulu.

Polynesian Cultural Center

Expect to spend the bulk of your day here, and return home late and exhausted. Located in the picturesque little town of Laie, the Polynesian Cultural Center has been rated Hawaii’s #1 attraction by USA Today.

Indeed, this wildly popular theme park/living museum is definitely a well-executed affair, with regular shows and other live entertainment running like clockwork from dawn till dusk.

Spread over 42 acres, the park is divided into six villages, each representing a Polynesian culture.

A full trip through the park feels like a tour of the Pacific, from New Zealand to Samoa, Tahiti to Tonga and, of course, Hawaii itself. Each village feels authentic and respectful, not to mention lively with music and traditional performances.

The real highlight comes after dark though, when over 100 Polynesian performers assemble for a spectacular fire and dance show. This show isn’t only a wonderful way to end a day at the cultural center, but arguably Hawaii’s top experience.

Oahu in 1 Day: the Oahu Grand Circle Island Tour

While the idea of being on a bus tour for ten hours might be daunting, the truth is that you are not on the bus for that amount of time as there are many stops along the way. And if you want to see a lot but don't have much time, your options are limited to just one: the Grand Circle Island Tour

The tour begins at about 8 am, the bus picking you up from wherever you’re staying at then head east towards Diamond Head.

The first stop is at Hanauma Bay, where you have 15 minutes to get off the bus and take a few pictures before hopping back on and making it to the next stop, a blowhole set in a beautiful location. 

Right besides it is Sandy Beach, a famous beach among bodyboarders because of the powerful waves that break right on the shore (caution if you decide to swim here on your own later on- necks do snap quite often).

The bus then continues heading north and going inland towards Nu’uanu Pali  lookout, up in the mountains. We had not been here and found out that it can be quite chilly up here- be warned! The views are impressive as are the mountains, steep and high, cut by the constant trade winds that hit the island.

The next stop is Byodo-In temple, a replica of a 900 year old temple in Kyoto (Japan) built to commemorate the 100 anniversary of the first Japanese settlers. This was one of the most interesting new places we visited in the tour.

Set in a beautiful location and surrounded by ponds it immediately reminded me of my visit to Japan, bringing back fond memories and reminding me how traditional Japanese culture can bring me (and maybe you) to a state of harmony and peace in the blink of an eye.

Lunch break comes shortly after, at Kualoa ranch. You can choose from a simple but assorted buffet (13 USD p/p with discount given by the tour)or eat at will.

Right after you are taken on a train-car to a lookout where you can enjoy some views of the bay. Kualoa Ranch is, by the way, an area that deserves some time in its own if possible: it is here that movies and TV shows like LOST or Jurassic Park were filmed because of the dramatic landscapes and lush vegetation.

Plan Your Oahu Trip

Accommodation in Oahu

Booking.com has over 500 hotels in Oahu including apartments and resorts. You get free cancellation on most rooms and a best price guarantee. Check prices.

Flights to Oahu

Skyscanner is a comparison website that searches millions of flights. Once you find your best deal, book directly through the airline (no extra fees). It’s an all in one flights, hotel and car hire search engine app and makes it easier for you to find the best travel deals!

Rental Cars in Oahu

RentalCars.com is the world’s biggest car rental booking service that compares all the major brands like Hertz, Avis, and Alamo. Check prices for Honolulu airport.

RV Rentals Hawaii:

Outdoorsy is the largest RV rental marketplace on the planet. They offer ease, flexibility and some unique and cool campervans for your Oahu road trip. Find your RV rentals for Oahu here.

Tours in Oahu

Get Your Guide offers small group tours and activities in Oahu including tickets to the popular Oahu attractions.

As we reached Moorea in French Polynesia it was hard not to appreciate the beauty of this Pacific island, perhaps the most amazing I have seen in the world (definitely much more beautiful than Vanuatu, another island country we'd visited earlier. It resembles Kauai in Hawaii, but with a much nicer ocean).

While getting there from Tahiti you can see that the water is as crystal clear as it can be, with coral reefs everywhere and spectacular sunsets put an end to every day.

Moorea fulfills all your daydreams of an island paradise, and with so many things to do in Moorea you easily spend a lifetime here and not get bored- I guess it's the reason many French nationals have moved here.

PIN for Later

Where is Moorea?

Spin your globe to the Pacific Ocean, roughly half way between Australia and Mexico. Squint, and you may see a handful of dots collectively labeled “French Polynesia”. One of those tiny islands is the tropical paradise of Moorea.

The island is located just next door to Tahiti in French Polynesia.

How to Get to Moorea

Don’t expect to see any direct fights to Moorea from … well, anywhere really. Remember you’re visiting one of the most remote islands in the world; if Moorea was a breeze to reach, then perhaps it wouldn’t be the secluded hamlet it is today.

Your first step to getting to Moorea is to fly to Tahiti. Almost all visitors to Tahiti come via Los Angeles, arriving at the Faa'a International Airport in Tahiti.

From there, Air Tahiti has around four flights a day to the nearby island of Moorea. However, these flights don’t always match up nicely with inbound trips from LAX, so there’s a good chance you’ll have to wait overnight in Tahiti.

If you find yourself in this situation, consider embracing it, and staying a night or two in Papeete.

The administrative capital of French Polynesia, Papeete, is interesting enough for a few days, and there are regular ferries to Moorea.

Taking the Ferry From Papeete to Moorea

Only one company, Aremiti, operates ferries from Tahiti to Moorea. The trip is only 30 minutes, and Aremiti has regular scheduled Papeete to Moorea departures throughout the day, all year round.

What’s the Best Time to visit Moorea?

The sweet spot here is to visit Moorea sometime between May and October, when the weather is mild and dry, with clear skies and gentle waters. The coolest months are June to October, which have average temperatures around 28-29 C.

June, July and August are definitely the most popular months, though with good weather comes higher prices across the board.

The rest of the year can be pretty hit and miss, mostly due to storms that batter the South Pacific.

November through to April can see intense cyclones crashing into these islands. Most years, these storms are intermittent, with destructive ones being somewhat rare; though the exception is El Niño.

If you arrive during storm season in an El Niño year, you’d better be prepared for some extreme weather.

Things to do in Moorea

Once you’ve arrived, you’ll find Moorea activities range from hiking to diving, experiencing Polynesian culture at the Tiki Village and just lazing on the beach.

Magic Mountain

Get your bearings by climbing to the commanding heights of Magic Mountain, a forested hike with great views of both the sea and island.

From the trailhead, the hike shouldn’t take you more than an hour. While many visitors tackle the trek as part of an ATV tour, it’s walkable, even from the dock.

Just remember to pay the XPF 200 (US$2.50) per person at the box near the trailhead. Also, bring sturdy shoes and plenty of water; the last 15 minutes or so of the ascent are a bit rough, and the summit is fully exposed to the tropical sun.

Belvedere Lookout

Another great option for Moorea hiking, Belvedere Lookout is a bit of a drive, but has panoramic views of the island’s interior.

Be careful on the trail, however; it’s quite thin, and frequented by ATVs. Many visitors also do the lookout as park of a 4x4 safari day tour of the island.

Moorea Lagoonarium

If you want to go diving in Moorea the easy way, then beeline straight for the Moorea Lagoonarium. From the ticket booth on shore, it’s a three minute water taxi ride to an island surrounded by waters reserved for this unique lagoon experience.

 The Lagoonarium staff will do everything for you; from guides to safety ropes to protect you from being pushed out to see by the currents. Scuba and snorkel gear aren’t included in the price, but can be hired.

This is definitely one of the best opportunities for some Moorea snorkeling, with sharks, rays and countless varieties of tropical fish coming out during the Lagoonarium’s twice-daily feeding events.

Try your hand at ray feeding, or just gawk at the reef sharks as they descent on the food frenzy.

Opunohu Valley

The scenic Opunohu Valley is both good for hiking and for getting up close to some of French Polynesia’s best preserved marae.

Once serving as communal meeting centers for pre-colonial Polynesians, marae can be found throughout the valley, along with other remnants of the ancient civilization that once thrived here.

Opunohu Valley was densely populated for around 600 years, from roughly the 13^th to 18^th centuries. Since excavations began in the 1960s, over 500 pre-colonial buildings have been identified, some of which can be observed by hikers.

Start your archaeological adventure at the Lycee Agricole, which occasionally hosts a small market of local produce. Take the uphill road towards Mount Tohiea, and follow the trail to the imposing Marae Titiroa. This enormous marae is just the first, with two more smaller ones being found further along the trail.

A six hour, round trip hike that takes in all the major ruins starts and ends at the Lycee Agricole, and is suitable for anyone of moderate fitness.

Opunohu Bay

The nearby Opunohu Bay offers visitors panoramic views of the lush island interior in one direction, and the calm, mirror-like waters off the shore. Worth the pit stop, especially if you have a kayak or two handy.

Tiki Village

After visiting the ruins at Opunohu, your interest in the authentic Polynesia should have been perked a little. To see a bit of traditional Tahitian culture, visit the Tiki Village for one of its famous shows or cultural events.

Along with the dance show and signature Tahitian feast nights, the Tiki Village also offers demonstrations of Tahitian tattooing, flower crown making, pareo painting and more.

Book in advance, and they’ll even pick you up from your hotel.

Moorea Dolphin Center

If you’ve spent some time in the South Pacific, then you’ve probably seen your fair share of mediocre aquariums – this is not one of them. The Moorea Dolphin Center has just one, clear cut raison  d'être; it’s all about swimming with dolphins.

On arrival, you’ll receive a 15 minute educational course, before being tossed in the water with a friendly dolphin. The dolphins seem to love human interaction, and will let you swim alongside them (we swam with dolphins in Oahu, Hawaii).

Transfers from your hotel are available for additional cost.

The Best Beaches in Moorea

You could rush to hit up the sights, sweat up the mountain and get stuff done on your vacation; or, forget it all and just whittle away the days on one of the world’s most stunning beaches.

If you opt for the latter, then these beaches are good starting points for enjoying Moorea’s coastline.

Most of Moorea’s best beaches are located on the northern face of the island. These are mostly swimming and diving beaches, rich in sea life that flocks here to feed off the fertile coral reefs that ring the island.

Due to these reefs, surfing is mostly pretty bad, though that doesn’t mean there aren’t some serious currents around.

Stay safe, and be aware of your surroundings.

Temae Plage Publique

Comprising of much of the northern coast of Moorea, Temae Plage Publique is a seemingly endless stretch of white sand bordering unbelievably electric blue waters. In the distance, Tahiti can be seen on clear days.

Mareto Plage Publique

Sandwiched between Cook and Opunohu bays, Mareto features coconut groves that make for some great photography. Often visited on jet ski tours.

Ta'ahiamanu Plage

One of the best activities in Moorea is snorkeling, and Ta'ahiamanu’s clear waters are perfect for some fish watching. Consider Moorea snorkeling tours around here.

Where to eat in Moorea?

K Restaurant is often considered the most prestigious restaurant on the island, specializing in multi-course extravaganzas that can last for hours. Bring insect repellent.

Meanwhile, local favorite Le Lezard Jaune Cafe does some of the freshest fish anywhere on Moorea.

For cheap eats, consider Pizzeria Manoarii. Finally, our favorite brunch spot was A L’Heure du Sud, a trendy little shack serving up ice cold juices and crunchy baguettes and mountain views.

Where to stay in Moorea

Moorea resorts clearly tend towards the expensive side, with many aimed specifically at honeymooners.

Best Budget Accommodation in Moorea

However, if on a budget look no further than Camping Nelson- it's located in the north side of the island right by a superb beach- just check these two pictures I took while I was there.

Tent sites cost 14€/night per person and dorm rooms cost 18€/night per person, although the dorms are actually two person cabins which means that you’ll be sharing it with one other person at most.

With plenty of space and good facilities you don’t really need anything else (check this budget tent guide by Globo Surf).

On the other hand, if you’re looking for Moorea island resorts, then the unique experience to go for here are overwater bungalows.

Moorea Overwater Bungalow Options

One of Moorea’s signature sights is the iconic overwater bungalow. It’s simple: picture a thatched roof bungalow in all its timber glory, now imagine it’s perched over azure waters off the coast of a verdant Pacific island.

These overwater bungalows definitely represent the best way to stay in Moorea, and can be more affordable than you think – especially during low season. A few good picks include:

Sofitel Moorea Ora Beach Resort -These bungalows are situated over colorful reefs bustling with tropical fish. At night, enjoy views of nearby Tahiti. *Check Rates*

Manava Beach Resort and Spa - Also offering reef views, Manava’s claim to fame is as the first place in the South Pacific to experiment with overwater bungalows.*Check Rates*

Other activities in Moorea (as a base camp)

The jewel of French Polynesia, Bora Bora, is less than an hour by plane from Moorea, making it a tempting side trip for many visitors. Direct flights are available with Air Tahiti, though prices can be pretty high.

Expect to pay somewhere between US$700-1000 for a return trip between the islands.

Things to Do in Bora Bora

Like Moorea, Bora Bora has options for hiking, diving and more.

Mount Pahia

Avid climbers must hit Pahia, the second highest mountain on Bora Bora and one of the most impressive anywhere in the Polynesian islands.

It’s a tough but short 1 hour scramble to the summit, and best done with a guide. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with clear, 360 degree views of the island below.

Bring all the things you’ll need for a day trip, including plenty of water. Worth doing on all Bora Bora vacations.

Visit Mount Otemanu

Bora Bora’s tallest peak, Otemanu is 2,400 feet above sea level. Unfortunately, the peak isn’t accessible for travel, though numerous operators run tours along the mountain’s flanks and forested surroundings.

The most popular trip is a tour by foot/jeep to sights around the island, including caves and rusting World War II relics. These relics date back to the months after the 1941 Pearl Harbor attack, when the US was scrambling to protect its vulnerable Pacific islands.

Under a secret plan, Bora Bora was designated the primary supply depot for US forces in the South Pacific, and heavily fortified in preparation of a expected Japanese invasion.

The assault never came, and today the forests around Otemanu are riddled with forgotten bunkers, anti-air guns and other bits and bobs that will impress anyone interested in military history.

One fun activity is to hunt for the eight 7"/44 artillery pieces scattered across the wilderness.

At the time, these were some of the heaviest caliber rapid fire armaments available to the US military, and today remain quite the experience to see.

Plage Matira

Bora Bora’s most famous beach snakes around the island’s eastern and southern coasts, and has views of offshore islands like Raiatea and Tahaa.

Bloody Mary’s

This iconic bar is best known for its flavorsome cocktails and meals of fresh caught fish.

After a day of exploring Bora Bora, settle down under the thatched roof and enjoy the views of sailboats in Powai Bay over a daiquiri or two.

Plan Your Moorea Trip

Accommodation in Moorea

Booking.com has over 100 hotels in Moorea including apartments and resorts. You get free cancellation on most rooms and a best price guarantee. Check prices.

Flights to Moorea

Skyscanner is a comparison website that searches millions of flights. Once you find your best deal, book directly through the airline (no extra fees).

The DollarFlightClub.com is an airline deals service that sends you emails with ultra low/error/hack fairs to pre-selected airports of your interest or more. Get warned whenever a massive deal to Moorea appears!

Rental Cars in Moorea

RentalCars.com is the world’s biggest car rental booking service that compares all the major brands like Hertz, Avis, and Alamo. 

While he never quite made it to Kauai on his journey, local residents are still eager to write him into their history, and legend has it that when Twain visited the Waimea Canyon he called it the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific”.

Is the story true? Nope. Yet a dramatic folk hero is not required to see that the name was well ascribed.

PIN FOR LATER

The Waimea Canyon

Of course the Grand Canyon is massive – hence the name, but Waimea Canyon measures up entirely in both history and beauty. There is a combination of natural processes that have formed the canyon over the past 5 million years.

First, natural rainfall from the wettest peaks on the earth and second, the islands’ most important volcano collapsed. Millenniums of calamitous events and steady corrosion have formed a canyon that rivals any in the world.

From top to bottom, the canyon measures 10 miles long, 1 mile wide and 3,600 ft deep. A mixture of red rock and green foliage makes the canyon uniquely tropical.

When you total up these facts, the canyon becomes a must see destination while in Hawaii.

If you're an adventurous hiker, you can make the canyon your primary destination for an entire week. Otherwise a day trip should suffice.

Either way, you should be aware that the temperature at the top of the canyon is usually 10-15 degrees colder than sea level.

If you decide on the day trip be sure to go on a small hike to experience the canyon first hand.

There are a variety of hikes to choose from.

A personal favorite is the hike to Waipoo Falls. The trail measures 4.8 miles round trip. It starts right by the Pu’u Hinahina lookout, which is between mile markers 13 and 14 on your way up the canyon. Normally the hike takes around 2-3 hours.

If you’re not up for any of the hiking trails through mud and rain forest, consider bee-lining for the Waimea Canyon Lookout on Highway 550, near mile marker 10.

You’ll come back telling stories that will make Mark Twain jealous. He will turn over in his grave knowing that he did not visit the most stunning canyon in Hawaii – The Grand Canyon of the Pacific!

Waimea Canyon Hikes

Take note that Waimea Canyon weather conditions can change suddenly. Be prepared for wind and rain, especially near the viewpoints. To plan your trip, use the official Waimea Canyon trail map here.

Hard copies of the Waimea Canyon map can be found at some ranger stations.

The following is far from an exhaustive list of hikes – the canyon and surrounding state park are bursting with walking opportunities and small trails.

These, however, are among the most popular:

Waimea Canyon Waterfall Trail / Waipoo Falls

The most popular canyon hike starts at the end of Halemanu Road, and takes visitors on one of the most scenic routes through the heart of the Waimea Canyon State Park, ending at the Kumuwela Lookout.

It’s around 3.4 miles for the round trip, and will take a moderate hiker 2-3 hours to complete. For a longer trail, take Black Pipe, which is a solid 8 mile trip that leads into the main Canyon Trail.

Whatever you'd like to call it, start by taking the dirt road entrance from the parking lot, and follow the signs into the trees. The undergrowth here can be thick, and makes for an exciting hike. After around 800 meters, you'll run into the trail's namesake, Waipo'o Falls.

This is a good spot for a water break, before continuing to the Kumuwela Lookout, which has incredible views of the canyon below.

Overall, it's one of the best Waimea Canyon hikes.

Poomau Canyon Lookout Trail

Occasionally labeled on some maps as the Poomau Canyon Vista Trail, this trail starts around 1.5 miles past the Forest Reserve entrance sign on Mohihi-Camp 10 Road.

 From the trailhead, it's only a few hundred meters to the Poomau Lookout, which has some decent views of the canyon. This is definitely one of the easiest and shortest trails on offer, and can be attempted by almost all visitors. 

Take care near the lookout in wet weather, and in general while hiking Waimea Canyon.

Kukui Trail

Starting on the western side, the Kukui Trail begins with a steep descent into the canyon. From the top, you'll plunge 2,000 feet through thick foilage into the heart of Waimea.

Take your time on the damp trail, and be prepared for some serious mud as you approach the canyon floor.

There's a river at the bottom, and camping is possible with a permit.

Iliau Nature Loop

Just near the Kukui Trail start, you’ll see another path heading to the Iliau Nature Loop. This 0.3 mile loop is an easy appetizer for anyone looking to stretch their legs without breaking a sweat.

Pleasant, and suitable for everyone.

Overall, a great Hawaii travel experience.

Awaawapuhi Trail

One of the most rewarding hikes in Waimea Canyon, Awaawapuhi Trail should definately be attempted by anyone visiting the park for the first time. The hike itself is of moderate difficulty, and expect a round trip of at least 6.5 miles – almost double that if you add the optional Nualolo Cliff Trail.

Awaawapuhi Trail starts at an elevation of around 4,120 feet, but descends moderately down to a rewarding overlook with great views of the canyon below.

The trail starts in rainforest, but leads hikers through dry, high desert-like terrain, before arriving at the open grasslands overlooking the valley. If you're following the mile markers, you should see one just near a trail junction beside the overlook.

From this junction, you can either double back to the trailhead and enjoy the nature loop, or continue down the Nualolo Cliff Trail.

Bear in mind that if you double back, you will be spending a lot of time going uphill.

Nualolo Cliff Trail

The quintessential Pali Coast experience, the Nualolo Cliff Trail is usually only attempted by serious hikers. For one, the trail itself can only be reached via either the afore-mentioned Awaawapuhi Trail, or via the Nualolo Trail.

The Nualolo Cliff Trail connects the two other hikes with a scenic route offering stunning views of the cliffs below.

If you're coming from Awaawapuhi, start the Nualolo Cliff Trail simply by following the marker at the trail junction near the final overlook. Otherwise, if you're coming from Nualolo, keep an eye out for the small trail about a quarter of a mile back from Lolo Vista Point.

It doesn't look like much, but this humble trail through the undergrowth actually leads you out to an equally slim track along the cliffsides. Watch your step: if you thought the canyon state was precarious, you'll want to really take it easy on the sections of this trail that hug the very edge of the cliffs.

If you're planning on doing the Nualolo Cliff Trail, bear in mind you'll inevitably have to cover both the connecting Nualolo Trail and the Awaawapuhi.

Expect to spend the better part of the day doing this epic loop. It's lengthy, but also perhaps the best hiking experience in Hawaii.

If you plan on doing the full Nualolo Cliff Trail, then you may want to consider parking your car at the Awaawapuhi trailhead, then walking down Highway 550 to the Kokee Ranger Station.

From there, you can do the loop and arrive in the afternoon back at the Awaawapuhi car park.

This saves walking down the highway in the afternoon, when traffic can be intense.

Nualolo Trail

Not to be confused with the more ambitious Nualolo Cliff Trail, the Nualolo Trail starts at the Kokee Ranger Station. Behind the station you should see the trail weaving uphill in a series of switchbacks.

Once you reach the top, you'll immediately plunge back downwards into the thick foilage, before the trail eventually flattens out into a more pleasant stroll. After about a mile, you'll begin to get some great views of Niihau Island.

This small island is one of the last remaining eclaves of Old Hawaii. The inhabitants speak Hawaiian, and entry is on approval by the local community only.

In other words, the views from Nualolo are as close as you'll probably ever get to this unique island.

Once you start seeing those lovely sea views, brace yourself for the mud. The trail at some points is a dirt road, though its interrupted occasionally by boggy pits of gluggy clay.

If it hasn't rained recently, then count your blessings; if it's wet though, then be prepared for some serious suction. This mud can suck your boots straight off, and will stain your clothes like nothing else.

After around 3 miles, you should see the Nualolo Trail forking off to your side. Even if you’re planning the big loop, consider continuing onward to Lolo Vista Point, which is less than 2 miles ahead.

 It’ll probably be windy at the point, but the views are worth it.

After the point, you can either double back to the ranger station, or take the Nualolo Cliff Trail. Bear in mind that if you parked at the Nualolo trailhead, then after the cliff hike you’ll end up at the  Awaawapuhi entrance.

From there, you’ll have to hike about 1.5 miles downhill along Highway 550 back to the Kokee Ranger Station’s parking lot.

Kawaikoi Stream Trail

A little under a mile past the park entrance on Mohihi-Camp 10 Road, you’ll find the trailhead to this short 1.8 mile loop that follows a trickling stream.

Plan Your Kauai Trip