Are you trying to figure out how to spend 5 days in Waikiki? Including the kids for this trip also? Then you’ve hit the right blog post. This guide is perfect for first-timers and traveling families alike, visiting the Hawaiian island of Oahu. Using our first-hand experience and tips from locals that we met while visiting, we’ve got your week filled with fun things to do. We can’t wait for you to go!
Let’s dive into the detailed guide for your next trip to Waikiki!
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Getting to Waikiki
We feel fortunate to live on the West Coast of the US, so flight time to any island in Hawaii is about five-ish hours. We typically fly Alaska Airlines when we fly to the Hawaiian islands, but there are many carriers that will take you there. If you’re interested in visiting the neighboring islands, you’ll find it easy to island hop.
Pro Tip: If you’re looking for cheap flights in general, we have you covered! See how we book cheap flights here.
You May Be Interested in this post too: 10 Best Things to Do on the Big Island with Kids
Getting Around
Waikiki has more options to get around to the sites that you’ll be adding to your site-seeing list. There are your typical options available on the island, but the only one we recommend is renting a car during your stay if you’re going to venture outside of Waikiki.
It just wouldn’t be cost-effective to take an Uber everywhere on the island. Not to mention that there are some places that are quite far from one another.
We found walking to be the easiest for exploring Waikiki overall.
The other option is to take public transportation, however, this could eat into your precious time! We’ll be honest, renting a car can be quite a budget eater- so you might consider renting a car for only part of your stay.
Where to Stay
Waikiki is packed with a plethora of accommodation options. With so many places to look at, it would be best to start narrowing down the results by considering the factors that are most important to you during a stay away from home.
Research is key to making the most of your Waikiki vacation! Overall this area of Hawaii is packed with tourism. To get you started, are you looking for something right on the beach, or is walking a few blocks a deal breaker? Are you interested in free breakfast, or being close to authentic restaurants? As we regularly say, there isn’t a wrong answer here, just preference overall.
Typically, the closer you are to the ocean, the more costly your overall hotel expenses will be. We have previously stayed at the Coconut Waikiki, which was closer to the Ala Wai Canal. Since it wasn’t a beachfront property, it was much more affordable, allowing us a longer vacation! There was still a beautiful view from the balcony too.
During our last stay visit to Waikiki, we stayed at a couple of different Hyatt properties. Our main motivation for this was due to the excellent points redemption we were able to secure. We stayed in Waikiki for 10 days, with ocean views for FREE. If you are interested in this type of travel hacking, let me know in the comments of this post, and I’ll be sure to follow up!
Pro Tip: Consider looking for accommodation with a kitchen, or kitchenette. Cooking some of your meals is a major money saver when it comes to your overall travel budget!
How to Spend 5 Days in Waikiki: Day 1
Arrive on the Island of Oahu
Hopefully, you can get an earlier flight to the island. This way you can get situated and hit the ground running. Whether you want to swim in the ocean first thing or indulge in some authentic Hawaiian food, arriving early has its benefits. Keep in mind, that you’re on island time! So no rush to get anywhere is how you should get this trip started.
Visit a Local Grocery Store
We love scoping out where the good snacks are at. During our last stay, we found an awesome spot called Waikiki Market. They had your traditional grocery items, but the hot foods case was a dream! Be sure to pick up snacks to keep in your hotel room, or for when you want to bring something to the beach.
Get Your Swimsuit On
And now it’s time for one of the main reasons you came to the Hawaiian islands, getting your swim on! Head to the beach or the pool to check off the first thing on your vacation bucket list on the first day.
How to Spend 5 Days in Waikiki: Day 2
Relax at Queen’s Beach
Snag a front row seat and watch some of the locals ride some waves! This beach is right next to main Waikiki beach and can sometimes be a location with less foot traffic.
Eat at Barefoot Beach Cafe
Just steps away from the beach, this cafe serves up some of the most delicious food in the area! This is an affordable option with stunning views of the Pacific ocean.
Catch a Sunset
Nothing better than enjoying a sunset right from the beach. Cuddle up and soak in the day’s last rays of sunshine.
See a Free Hula Show
There are a few options to catch a free hula or cultural performance in Waikiki. Check out the Royal Hawaiian Center or International Marketplace. Here is a helpful link also!
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How to Spend 5 Days in Waikiki: Day 3
Wake Up Early to Catch a Sunrise
If you get a chance, try waking up early to watch the sunrise over the northern hills and Ala Wai canal. Its a beautiful sight to wake up to!
Explore the Wild Side at the Honolulu Zoo
Visit the zoo during the earlier hours of the day so you have a better chance of seeing animals in action. This is a great spot for the kids, as there is a fun playground there as well!
Swim at Kaimana Beach
Take a break and cool off at this smaller beach. The waves are calmer here, making it great for younger ones. Don’t forget your snorkel gear because you can catch glimpses of sea life here too!
How to Spend 5 Days in Waikiki: Day 4
Grab Some Shave Ice
One of the best spots for shave ice in Waikiki is at Lahaina Shave Ice. They serve them big here, so consider sharing. Don’t forget to try the condensed milk on top. YUM!
Visit the Waikiki Aquarium
Experience the local sea life at the Waikiki Aquarium. Although on the smaller scale of aquariums, this venue is an easy and fun stop for the kids. There is an indoor and outdoor section for viewing.
Catch the Fireworks at Hilton Hawaiian Village
On Friday’s you can catch fireworks at the Hilton Hawaiian Village. Don’t worry, you don’t have to be staying there in order to watch them. Snag a spot on the beach nearby and watch the night sky light up!
How to Spend 5 Days in Waikiki: Day 5
Grab some Dole Whip
There are many places that serve up Dole Whip in the area. If you’re staying in Waikiki, an easy spot to get to is Aloha Whip inside of the Queen Kapiʻolani Hotel. If you venture outside of the city, you can make your way to the Dole Plantation and try some there!
Shop and Eat at the International Marketplace
The International Marketplace is full of place to shop and eat alike. Grab a bite, then meander on the different levels of the outdoor marketplace and purchase some souvenirs.
Visit the Starbucks Reserve
If you’re a fan of Starbucks, trek over the Reserve located on Kuhio Ave. Try out some of there special roasts while visiting the island!
Travel with Kids Tips
Are you excited now? If you’re traveling with kids, here are some tips to consider while exploring this new-to-you destination.
Bring a Quality Wagon, Stroller or Carrier
Bringing a quality stroller not only gets you through the airport easier but also makes that evening walk easier on the little ones who are wiped out from a day of adventure. Another thought to consider is how easy it will be to fold up and transport (thinking of when you’re on the plane). For toddlers, a hiking pack is a great option if you want to opt out of using a stroller!
Bring Water Shoes
Make sure the whole family has water shoes to wear while playing in the ocean. The last thing you want is a cut-up foot from snorkeling!
Consider the Resort Pass App
Thinking about spending a day at a local resort? Download and check out the Resort Pass app! You may want to do this early on in your trip to avoid running into booked-out resorts. Many resorts have dedicated kids pools too, which makes fun for the whole family.
Another post you may like: Top 10 Toddler Travel Essentials
Enjoy Waikiki
We hope you enjoy this destination as much as we have! Once you have a taste of the Hawaiian islands, it is tough to go back home! Be sure to let us know what things you tried out and share in the comments ideas we didn’t include on the list!
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