Life is better in Hawaii!
Life is better in Hawaii!
I saw this on a T-shirt on our 5th day in Waikiki Beach, Oahu. WOW. I said to my sister. It sure is. I had to buy the shirt!
No humidity. Stunning Sunsets. Pleasant 80-degree temperatures every day. Fresh pineapple so juicy it runs down your chin. Chocolate-covered macadamia nuts. What’s not to love?
Here is a great way to spend 5 days in Waikiki Beach, Oahu.
Day 1: Rent a car and drive to the North Shore. Take the windward coast route up so you can see the beautiful water views. There are many public beaches with parking to stop and take pictures, or pull up a chair, and sit and watch the waves! Stop for lunch at Teds’ Bakery Sunset Beach. Be sure to try the Chocolate Coconut Pie! Continue the drive along the coast and wind your way over to the Dole Plantation. Be sure to try the pineapple Dole Whip, and enjoy the train ride on the pineapple express tour.
Day 2: Pearl Harbor. The USS Arizona Memorial is a humbling must-see at Pearl Harbor. It is a lifetime experience to see the event that unfolded on December 7, 1941. The USS Arizona Memorial lies above the sunken ship, and the 1177 crew of men that lost their lives. Admission is free and tickets are first come first serve. Arrive early to beat the tour buses. It’s a 1 hour event once you get tickets. No bags allowed. (Read the frequently asked questions here)
Day 3: Climb Diamond Head! Diamond Head State Monument Park opens at 6:00 a.m., which is when the buses tours start! We arrived at 7:00 a.m. and beat the crowd. You will need a reservation now due to Covid. There is an entrance fee ($5.00) and a parking fee. It takes about 2 hours to walk up and back down. It is a good hike on uneven ground but worth the effort! Stunning views of Waikiki Beach and Honolulu. Almost to the top there is a section of 99 steps straight up a narrow tunnel. If you are claustrophobic, I suggest you take the outside route with the fresh air and lovely views!
Day 4 and Day 5: Sit on Waikiki Beach. Watch the surfers. Swim. Have a Guava daiquiri by the pool. Walk the strip. Shop. People Watch. Soak up the sun. Enjoy the balmy breezes. Eat fresh pineapple. Take a Waikiki sunset dinner cruise. Watch the fabulous sunsets.
Where to stay: There are many wonderful properties in the heart of Waikiki. I always stay at the Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort and Spa. It’s across the street from the beach, on the main strip, easy walking to shops, restaurants, and close to Diamond Head. Newly renovated outdoor bar and restaurant area features 2 pools! (one adult only pool) Here was my balcony view from my last visit!
See the Waikiki Marriott Resort and Spa and other Marriott properties at:

