Honolulu is a popular tourist destination located on Oahu Island. Oahu is one of 8 main Hawaiian islands. From Sydney, you can fly 9 hours and 30 minutes direct with Jetstar, Qantas, Virgin Australia or Hawaiian Airlines.
My family and I enjoyed our stay in March 2011, where the temperature ranges from 19 – 28 degrees. Make sure to have an umbrella handy as there’s sure to be a brief sunshower.
Accommodation
The Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort – Located on Waikiki white sand beach is this grand hotel that also has a saltwater lagoon. The resort is family orientated, comfortable and has everything one needs.
The resort includes 5 swimming pools, Mandara Spa salon, 20 restaurants and bars, daily activities from Hula to yoga and a children’s camp.
Sheraton Hotel Waikiki – After a few days spent in Los Angeles and San Francisco, Mum and I returned to Honolulu for a stopover. I have always been fond of the Sheraton brand and this hotel did not disappoint.
Our Partial Ocean view room with Club Lounge access was nice and to be honest, we did not spend that much time in our room. But admit I prefer the Oceanfront room I stayed in during 2013.
The Infinity pool was definitely a highlight. The resort caters to both couples and families. An expensive hotel plus the daily resort fee per person that comes with inclusions but well worth every penny.
https://www.marriott.com.au/hotels/travel/hnlws-sheraton-waikiki/
Leahi Club Lounge – Located on the 30th floor of the Sheraton Hotel, this is a great perk to add to your stay. Enjoy breakfast, morning tea, afternoon canapes and alcoholic beverages with a spectacular view of Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head. It is absolutely breathtaking from here.
https://www.marriott.com.au/hotels/hotel-information/details-1/hnlws-sheraton-waikiki/
Beaches
Waikiki Beach – We frequented this beach daily, hard not to. If you get a chance to sunbake in front of The Sheraton hotel, keep a lookout for turtles.
Oahu’s North Shore – A famous Surfers beach, don’t go on a tour, hire a car and go on an adventure. We did a tour where we felt rushed and did not have as much time as I would have liked to enjoy the area.
Sightseeing Must Do’s
Pineapple Plantation – An interesting place, however, I would not suggest going out of your way when there are other activities you may find more worthwhile.
https://www.doleplantation.com/
Pearl Harbor – A sad and interesting place to visit, you walk away with no doubt a multitude of feelings. As sensitive as I am I could not hold back the tears. This is definitely an activity to do either on a tour or you can do it on your own. I have done both and recommend booking in advance. Pearl Harbour is full of tourist, put on your patience hat hehe.
Fireworks – Every Friday evening, the most amazing fireworks display are held in front of The Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort along the beach. Fireworks in January are at 7.45pm. A definite must-see.
http://www.hiltonhawaiianvillage.com/resort-experiences/entertainment-and-events
Waikiki Starlight Luau – It is always nice to see a traditional cultural dance when overseas. Mum and I enjoyed this show.
Dining
Dukes – This legendary seaside dining is great for any time of the day, you will visit more than once. The cocktails and food are amazing. I recommend the burgers and the buffalo wings are the best I have had worldwide.
Oceanhouse – I had the pleasure of dining at this restaurant that has recently closed its doors after 15 years of service with my family. The ambiance and food were delightful. I was lucky enough to return twice in 2013.
Cheesecake factory – Now you are probably thinking really but yes I recommend it, it a nice casual place in the CBD with yummy food that everyone will like.
https://www.thecheesecakefactory.com/
Wolfgang Puk – The steak was definitely worth it, however, very expensive. Overall, a great experience.
http://wolfgangssteakhouse.net/waikiki/reservations/
There was another place we dined at that I really liked, unfortunately, no memory or photos taken.
Shopping
Ala Moana Mall – Great mall with everything, you may even go twice. Just don’t spend all day here ladies.
https://www.alamoanacenter.com/en.html
International Market Place – A good area to check out for nifty items. There was a cute little reasonably priced store with kaftans here. I was silly and only bought 1 on my first visit then 2nd visit the store was gone. Make sure to suss out if there are any kaftan or swimwear stores here as it will be a better price in the marketplace.
http://www.shopinternationalmarketplace.com/
Kalakaua Ave stores – Located in the heart of Waikiki. Michael Kors, Forever 21 & Victoria Secret were good at the times I was there.
http://dguides.com/oahu/shopping/kalakaua-avenue/
Waikele Shopping Outlet – This outlet is fantastic and the best outlet to go to with fabulous discounts on designer items. I bought a collection of my Michael Kors bags and wallet from here. The outlets are the best occasion to buy more sneakers. Make sure you walk away with more than 1 pair.
http://www.premiumoutlets.com/outlet/waikele
My advice, do not take a full suitcase to Hawaii, you will definitely shop.
If you have not had the pleasure of travelling to Honolulu, book now!
Well, that’s it for me for Honolulu 2011, please check out my 2013 return visit that also has Honolulu 2011 combined- christinetravels.com/2018/01/25/mesmerized-by-honolulu/
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