Girl smiling on Waikiki Beach

Labor Day Weekend in Waikiki

Labor Day Weekend marks the unofficial end of summer and there’s no better place to say farewell than tropical Waikiki. The weather on Oahu remains beautiful through Labor Day, with temperatures around 85°F, and visitors flock to enjoy the last bit of summer season over the holiday weekend. With events throughout the weekend and the gorgeous Hawaiian landscape, you are sure to enjoy a relaxing vacation in Waikiki over Labor Day.

Things to Do

Beach Day Fun

Waikiki Beach is one of the world’s most popular beaches, and for good reason! The golden sand of this 2-mile stretch of beach looks out on the stunning Oahu landscape and spectacular Pacific sunsets. It is well-known for its calm, clear waters and family-friendly atmosphere. Beachgoers can soak up the sun while enjoying gorgeous views of Diamond Head, play in the waves, and grab a quick lunch from the many restaurants along the beach.

Enjoy Water Activities

Labor Day Weekend is a celebration of summer, and the warm waves of the Pacific are calling you! Head to Waikiki Beach to play in the calm waters, where iconic surf breaks are a fantastic place to learn how to surf. The clear water of Waikiki Bay is also a popular place for kayaking and paddle boarding. Rental equipment and lessons can be found at any number of shops along Waikiki Beach and Kalakaua Ave. Adventurous visitors may also want to check out parasailing for a bird’s eye view of Waikiki Beach

Go Snorkeling

Waikiki Beach is teeming with marine wildlife and the calm water will make beginner snorkelers feel comfortable. Rent equipment from one of the beachside shops and head straight out into the bay to explore the underwater world, or sign up for a snorkeling tour to swim with turtles right off the shore. For those looking to stay dry, Atlantis Submarine Adventure takes you 100 feet under the water to enjoy the beautiful natural world under the waves.

Cultural Activities

Learn more about Hawaiian culture during your trip with a stop at Iolani Palace to learn about the Hawaiian monarchy, or pay a visit to the Bishop Museum to view cultural history exhibits. The Royal Hawaiian Center also has traditional music, hula shows and activities for free throughout the week. To experience a traditional luau, head to Paradise Cove, or check out the entertaining Luau Show at Rock-a-Hula in the heart of Waikiki.

Go Sailing

Head out on the water for a catamaran sunset sail to enjoy gorgeous views of Diamond Head and the Oahu coastline. Or explore Waikiki’s coral reefs with a catamaran trip to Turtle Canyon, where you can see green sea turtles, tropical fish and maybe even a few spinner dolphins. For dinner and a show, climb aboard the Star of Honolulu, which offers sunset cruises with a buffet and Polynesian dance show.

Events

 

For a cultural immersion experience, visit the Okinawan Festival on September 2-3 at Honolulu Convention Center. This festival celebrates the culture of the Japanese island of Okinawa through food, music, cultural exhibitions and educational activities for kids. Admission is $10 for adults and free for children under 12.

Swimming fans will want to check out the Waikiki Roughwater Swim on Monday, September 4. This is a 2.3-mile swimming event in the open water along Waikiki Beach. Swimmers are allowed to register on the day of the event and spectators are welcome to watch from the beach.

On September 1 from 6-9pm, the First Friday at Hawaii State Art Museum hosts a family-friendly event with art, music and food. Museum galleries are open to the public, with live entertainment on the grounds. Admission is free and all ages are welcome. For some extra fun, head to Waikiki Beach at dusk to watch the Friday Fireworks show put on by the Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort.

If your stay extends beyond Labor Day Weekend, check out some of the Aloha Festival events starting September 9. This cultural celebration includes a royal court ceremony, hula, block parties and parades to celebrate Hawaiian culture throughout the month of September.

Tips

  • Expect longer lines at tourist attractions due to the holiday weekend, and book tickets in advance when possible.
  • Restaurants in Waikiki can get crowded over the weekend, so consider making reservations or dining outside of peak hours to avoid a long wait.
  • To get a break from the Labor Day crowds, try heading north of Waikiki to Ala Moana Beach. This is a favorite local spot with calm water perfect for swimming, a laid-back vibe and plenty of space to spread out.

Spending Labor Day Weekend in Waikiki offers adventure and relaxation that is sure to create priceless memories for you and your loved ones. Check out these great vacation rentals in Waikiki to get started planning your holiday getaway!

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Sunny Day on Waikiki Beach

Plan a Summer Vacation to Waikiki

Waikiki is a great destination to visit during the summer months. The weather is warm, and Waikiki Beach is vibrant and bustling with people. With its beautiful beaches, cultural activities, and outdoor recreation opportunities, there is no shortage of fun things to do in this tropical paradise during the summer! Keep in mind that summer in Waikiki is the high season, so visitors should be prepared for more crowds than other times of the year. Book your accommodations early, and plan out your activities in advance so that you can make the most of your trip.

Hit the beach

Waikiki is known for its beautiful beaches, and there are several to choose from. The iconic Waikiki Beach is a great place to swim, surf, or just relax on the sand. Kuhio Beach and Queen’s Beach are found by walking south from Waikiki and have very calm waters great for snorkeling or stand-up paddleboarding. Fort DeRussy Beach is a great option on the north end of Waikiki, with a waterfront park and picnic area – but be sure to bring water shoes if you want to take a dip, as there is a rocky bottom.

Attend a summer festival

There is so much happening during summer on Oahu and you will have no problem finding something to fit your interests. Every June, King Kamehameha Day is celebrated across Hawaii with lei ceremonies and floral parades. The third week of July brings the Prince Lot Hula Festival, an opportunity for visitors to experience the beauty of hula and Hawaiian culture. In August, the annual Duke’s OceanFest takes over Waikiki Beach with a celebration of surfing and water sports.

Learn to surf

Surfing is synonymous with Waikiki, and summer presents the perfect opportunity to ride the gentle waves as a beginner. Enroll in surf lessons offered by experienced instructors who will guide you through the fundamentals and help you catch your first wave. There are plenty of surf instructors to be found operating kiosks along the beach on Kalakaua Avenue, or you can enroll in advance.

Hike Diamond Head

The amazing view of Diamond Head from Waikiki will have you itching to climb it! This volcanic crater was formed after an eruption over 300,000 years ago and the result is a dramatic landscape with stunning views of the ocean and Honolulu’s skyline from the top. The summit also has remnants of its military history to explore, including bunkers and a lighthouse. To reach the summit, visitors should plan on a 1-2 hour hike. Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes, and bring water and snacks.

Try out some water sports

Waikiki is a wonderland for water sports of every kind. In addition to surfing, stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking and jet skiing are also very popular in the Waikiki Beach area, with rental options found along Kalakaua Avenue. Thrill seekers will love soaring through the air on a parasailing adventure with incredible views. Snorkeling in the clear waters of Kuhio Beach is great for beginners and those looking for deeper waters can find scuba tours leaving from Waikiki regularly (no certification required).

Shopping in Waikiki

There are a variety of shops in Waikiki to suit any tastes and budget. The Waikiki Beach Walk is an outdoor mall with two stories of boutiques and restaurants, as well as weekly cultural music and dance performances. Shoppers looking for high-end and designer finds will love Luxury Row. And visitors can find unique local Hawaiian accessories and apparel at Royal Hawaiian Center.

Nightlife in Waikiki

The area around Waikiki Beach is alive with energy all day and into the night. There are lots of options for great dining at any budget, from casual Hawaiian fare at Duke’s Waikiki to elegant Italian fine dining with an ocean view at Orchids. After dinner, hit up Tiki’s Grill & Bar for fun cocktails and live music, or head to Blue Note Hawaii for an evening of jazz.

Embrace Hawaiian culture

Visit the Royal Hawaiian Center or Waikiki Beach Walk where you can experience weekly events with traditional Hawaiian music, hula dancing, and storytelling. Attend a classic luau at Paradise Cove, which offers a shuttle from Waikiki. Learn more about the history of Hawaii’s culture and monarchy at Iolani Palace and the Bishop Museum. If you want to explore further than Waikiki, don’t miss the Polynesian Cultural Center, where you can learn about the diverse cultures of the Pacific Islands through interactive exhibits and demonstrations.

Take an ocean cruise

The crystal clear waters of the Pacific can be enjoyed by taking a cruise from Waikiki. Experience the magic of a Hawaiian sunset aboard a catamaran cruise, or enjoy breathtaking views of Waikiki and Diamond Head from your sailboat as you head out for some spectacular snorkeling with Manu Kai. Or take a glass bottom boat tour, which is the perfect way to see the underwater world without getting your feet wet.

Visit Kapiolani Park

This lovely park was dedicated as public space in the 1870s and is one of the oldest parks in Hawaii. The beautiful rare plants in Queen Kapiolani Garden are a highlight of the park, and the Waikiki Shell amphitheater hosts live music and entertainment throughout the summer. Kapiolani Park houses the Honolulu Zoo and the Waikiki Aquarium, both world-class facilities known for their educational programs and focus on local Pacific wildlife and marine life.

Whether you’re lounging on the beach, riding the waves, immersing yourself in Hawaiian culture, or exploring the natural wonders, summer in Waikiki is sure to provide a memorable vacation experience. Book your Waikiki vacation rental and start counting down the days to an unforgettable summer getaway in paradise!

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Surfing on Waikiki Beach

Top 10 Things to Do on a Waikiki Getaway

Go to the Beach

Beautiful view of Waikiki beach

Visit the iconic Waikiki Beach and enjoy the crystal-clear waters and two miles of soft sand. The gentle waves of this area make it ideal for swimming, surfing, snorkeling and stand-up paddleboarding. You will find vendors for everything from beach towels to surfboards along Kalakaua Avenue, which runs parallel to Waikiki Beach, and there are plenty of food stands for a quick lunch. The widest stretch of sand is found near the statue of legendary surfer Duke Kahanamoku, and the calmest waters can be found at Kuhio Beach on the south end of Waikiki.

Take a Cruise

Part of the magic of Hawaii is the Pacific Ocean, and what better way to enjoy it than booking a cruise? There are many options you can choose from leaving from Waikiki, including catamaran cruises, snorkeling charters and tours to watch whales, dolphins and turtles. Stop by one of the many vendors along Waikiki Beach, or contact Hawaii Nautical to book a cruise.

Go Surfing

Surfboards lined up on Waikiki Beach

Waikiki Beach is protected from heavy waves, which make it the perfect place for beginners to learn how to surf. Find board rentals and lessons from the vendors along Waikiki Beach, or book lessons in advance. If you want to watch the pro surfers practice their art, there are surfing competitions throughout the winter on the North Shore. If you are in Waikiki in August, make sure to check out Duke’s OceanFest, an annual event celebrating watersports and surfing on Waikiki Beach.

Learn about Hawaiian Culture

To learn about the Hawaiian monarchy, pay a visit to Iolani Palace or take a deeper dive into Hawaiian culture at the Bishop Museum. Art lovers should stop by the Honolulu Museum of Art, where a world-class collection includes over 50,000 pieces. An hour from Waikiki, the Polynesian Cultural Center showcases various Polynesian cultures through living history exhibits.

Take a Hike

Diamond Head crate on Waikiki from above

Close to Waikiki is Diamond Head State Monument, a deep volcanic crater with steep sides. The hike to the top of Diamond Head is steep and challenging, but you are rewarded with fantastic views of the city and ocean. From the trailhead to the summit, plan on 1-2 hours and wear good walking shoes. A bit further from Waikiki is Koko Head, a volcanic crater with a steep trail and breathtaking views of Hanauma Bay. There are over 1,000 stairs made from an old railway going straight up the top, so be ready for a workout! 

Participate in Cultural Activities

Visitors can enjoy the ever-popular luau experience at several locations within Waikiki, or take a shuttle from Waikiki to Paradise Cove, recognized as one of the best classic luau shows on Oahu. There are many cultural festivals throughout the year where visitors can hear traditional music, try their hand at ukulele or take hula lessons. These events can typically be found in Waikiki at Royal Hawaiian Center or along the Waikiki Beach Walk.

Learn about Hawaii’s Military History

History buffs will have plenty to see at the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, focused on aircraft used in WWII. The Pearl Harbor complex also includes memorials to the battleships and servicemen involved in the attack, as well as tours of the Battleship Missouri museum. Closer to Waikiki, you will find the U.S. Army Museum of Hawaii, a museum dedicated to the long military history of Hawaii, from traditional Hawaiian warfare through current day. 

See Local Wildlife

Entrance to the Honolulu Zoo

The Honolulu Zoo is home to a variety of animals from around the world, and is a great place to spend a day learning about local and marine wildlife. The zoo offers guided tours, animal encounters, and educational programs. The nearby Waikiki Aquarium is a short walk away and is worth a stop to see over 3,000 species of marine animals from the Pacific Ocean. Both facilities are located in Kapiolani Park, which is a beautiful park with stunning views and the impressive Queen Kapiolani Garden with rare plants from Hawaii and the rest of the world. 

Explore Waikiki’s Nightlife

Along the oceanfront Kalakaua Avenue, you will find a variety of bistros, fine dining and bars. Casual dining with an ocean view can be found at Duke’s Waikiki or Waikiki Beachside Bistro. Foodies looking for a fine dining experience will be delighted with upscale Hawaiian fare at Roy’s Waikiki or refined seafood dishes at Azure. There are plenty of fun bars in lively Waikiki, but the tiki cocktails and live music at Tiki’s Grill & Bar and poolside cocktails on the rooftop at Swell should not be missed.

Find an Adventure

The island of Oahu is full of beautiful sights and exciting activities. Renting a car or using public transportation is a convenient way to get to popular sights on Oahu, but there are also many tour companies that will pick you up in Waikiki. Take a tour of the Jurassic Park environment of Kualoa Ranch or explore the stunning North Shore by horseback. If you want to hit the highlights, join a guided island tour, including the Dole Plantation, beaches, snorkeling and a coffee farm, with facts and history along the way. Or see the sights of Oahu from the air with a helicopter tour.

With so much to see and do, Waikiki is the ideal destination for a fun and memorable getaway. Book your Waikiki vacation rental and start exploring the possibilities for your perfect Hawaiian getaway!

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Easter on the beach in Waikiki

Spending Easter Weekend in Waikiki

Waikiki on the island of Oahu is a family-friendly destination year-round, but there is something special about spending a holiday at the beach with your loved ones. From outdoor activities to traditional Hawaiian cultural events, Waikiki and the Honolulu area has something for everyone during the Easter holiday, which usually falls in early April. Check out these top family-friendly activities in Waikiki Beach during Easter to get a start on your vacation planning.

Enjoy a Family Easter brunch

Get all dressed up for Easter brunch in one of Waikiki’s upscale restaurants. Orchids offers casual elegance, with beautiful ocean views and amazing food. Or for a fresh and local focused menu, head to 100 Sails for an elevated brunch experience. Families in search of a more casual brunch will enjoy Tiki’s Bar & Grill or Cinnamons Waikiki.

Easter Egg Hunt, Crafts & More!

For a unique outing, head to Waimea Valley for a family Easter event, where there will be an outdoor brunch, an egg hunt, and crafts with Hawaiian flair. Head to Royal Hawaiian Center for an Easter celebration including free photos with the Easter Bunny. Local food growers Sun Farm Hawaii are also offering an egg hunt and tour of their working farm.

Learn about Hawaiian Culture

The Polynesian Cultural Center is a great place to learn about traditional Hawaiian culture, as well as other Pacific islands. For history buffs, the Iolani Palace will be a delightful way to understand the history of the islands and the historic monarchy.

Experience a Luau

Have fun while learning about traditional Hawaiian culture during an entertaining night filled with food, music, dancing and games. For a classic luau experience, head to Paradise Cove, which is known to be one of the best on the island. For more of a variety show luau, Rock-A-Hula is a favorite among visitors.

Spend a Day on the Beach

Waikiki Beach can easily fill up a whole day with fun in the sun. Relax on the sand while admiring the view of the iconic Diamond Head, or play in the gentle waves. Waikiki is the perfect place to learn how to boogie board or surf, with lots of rental companies located right on the boardwalk. The pristine blue waters and white sandy beach in Waikiki also make a stunning backdrop for family pictures. 

See the Animals

Take time to explore the wide variety of exotic animals at the Honolulu Zoo, with guided tours and a petting zoo experience. Visit the Waikiki Aquarium to explore a mix of Hawaiian and tropical fish, sea turtles, sharks and more. For a special Easter experience, head to Easter Extravaganza at Sea Life Park, where the kids can encounter marine animals while they hunt for eggs.

Visit the Dole plantation

This interactive museum showcases the history of Dole pineapples grown in Hawaii. Informational exhibits, a train tour and a garden maze are all part of what makes this one of the most popular stops for families visiting Oahu. And you can’t miss the plantation country store, offering a wide assortment of gifts, food and refreshments, including the famous Dole soft serve, worth a trip in itself!

Go for a Horseback Ride

Get away from the hustle and bustle of Waikiki and escape to the North Shore of Oahu, where you can ride horses through the breathtaking scenery. A trail ride through Kualoa Ranch is perfect for kids 10 years and older, and transportation to and from Waikiki is included. 

Go for a Family Hike

Check out Diamond Head State Monument, where you can take a hike to the top of the iconic extinct volcano for some stunning views and a family-friendly adventure. A short drive from Waikiki, spend some time exploring the spectacular coral reef and abundance of wildlife found in Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve – snorkelers will have a field day.

Go Whale Watching

Hop on a boat tour departing from Waikiki Beach and experience close-up encounters with humpback whales. The best. time to see whales on Oahu is March-November, so Easter is a perfect time of year for this. Local favorite Star of Honolulu offers whale watching, as well as sunset cruises and Polynesian dinner shows.

With so much to do as a family in Waikiki during Easter time, it’s no wonder why families love to travel here this time of year! Whether your family is looking for an educational experience or just some relaxing fun together, there are plenty of activities to choose from. So get ready to make some lasting memories during Easter and book your Waikiki Beach vacation rental today!

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Father and Son Paddling on a Surfboard - Waikiki Beach

Plan a Spring Break Vacation to Waikiki

Waikiki is one of the most popular spring break destinations for people of all ages! The island of Oahu offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and exciting activities that make it an excellent choice for a memorable vacation. From surfing the world-class waves to exploring the vibrant local history and culture, there are plenty of things to do in Waikiki over spring break vacation. 

Explore Waikiki Beach

The golden sand of Waikiki Beach is the perfect place to spend a fun-filled day of swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. With its beautiful views of Diamond Head and world-famous waters, visitors will want to spend as much time as possible here. Wander down the Waikiki Beach Walk to find plenty of companies offering beach gear, equipment rentals for surfing or stand up paddle boarding, as well as surfing lessons.

Ride the waves

Surfing is a well-known pastime in the Hawaiian Islands, and Waikiki Beach is the perfect place to get on a board as a beginner. The clear water and consistent wave breaks make learning to surf in Waikiki a great experience. Check out one of the many vendors along Waikiki Beach offering surfing lessons or check out a local surfing competition in March to get some inspiration. 

Visit Honolulu Zoo

The Honolulu Zoo is one of the top attractions in Waikiki for families over spring break. It has over 1,200 animals from all around the world living on 42 acres of lush jungle and gardens. There are guided tours available that provide an in-depth look at some of the zoo’s residents, as well as a petting zoo area where you can get up close with some of the animals.

Attend a luau

No visit to Oahu would be complete without attending a luau! There are many places offering different variations of this iconic Hawaiian event throughout the island. In the heart of Waikiki, Rock-A-Hula offers traditional luau packages and an entertaining variety show focused on Hawaiian cultural history and musical performances. North of Waikiki, you will find Paradise Cove, a classic luau which is consistently ranked as one of the best in Hawaii. 

Explore Hawaiian culture

There are a variety of ways to learn more about Hawaiian culture during your spring break vacation. Head to Iolani Palace to learn about the Hawaiian monarchy, or pay a visit to Polynesian Cultural Center to experience the traditional cultural heritage of various Pacific Island nations. From March 10-12, check out the Honolulu Festival, a celebration of food, film, dance and crafts of the Hawaiian islands. Families will also love the Keiki Street Festival on March 11, a block party aimed at teaching elementary school-aged children about Hawaiian culture.

Hit the hiking trails

There are many opportunities for hiking in the lush landscape of Oahu. For an adventure close to Waikiki, you can tour Diamond Head Crater, a dormant volcano with stunning views of Honolulu and the Pacific Ocean. For more hiking adventures, hike up Koko Head trail, a popular hike up the extinct volcano which offers stunning views of the island’s shoreline, including Diamond Head and Waikiki. Explore nearby Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve for sweeping views of Koko Head, and a beach known for amazing snorkeling.

Go whale watching

Humpback whales migrate past the Hawaiian islands from December through early May, so your spring break vacation is the perfect time to book a whale watching tour. Whale watching tours depart from Waikiki and other harbors on the south and western side of Oahu. Schedule a whale watching tour with your group and enjoy a magical experience!

Take a tour of Pearl Harbor

Pay your respects to those who gave their lives during WWII with a visit to the USS Arizona Memorial in Pearl Harbor and learn more about the tragic event that impacted the entire world. The site itself is free to visit, but there are also many guided tours offering an immersive and educational experience for an extra fee.

Visit the Waikiki Aquarium

Get up close and personal with over 3,000 species of fish and marine wildlife at Waikiki Aquarium. This family-friendly aquarium is known for its extensive tropical fish collection, as well as educational exhibits focused on marine conservation and interactive daily feedings.

Explore the Waikiki food scene

From street food stalls to incredible five star restaurants, Waikiki has something for everyone. A great lunch can be found at Barefoot Beach Cafe, a casual oceanfront restaurant at the end of Waikiki Beach. For a sweet treat after your day on Waikiki Beach, head to Banan for delicious ice cream made from bananas. For dinner with a spectacular view, try Orchids or La Mer for fine dining, or opt for Duke’s Waikiki for a more casual dining experience. After dinner, enjoy live music at one of Honolulu’s many bars and nightclubs for an unforgettable evening.

No matter what type of activities you’re looking for during your spring break trip to Waikiki, there’s no shortage of things to do. Novation Realty offers nearly 50 Waikiki Beach condo rentals, with excellent views and a convenient location. Book your vacation rental with Novation today and make some amazing memories this spring break in Waikiki!

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Waikiki Sunset

Plan a Romantic Getaway to Waikiki

Waikiki Beach is one of the most iconic vacation spots in the world, known for its beautiful white sand beaches and crystal clear waters. It’s the perfect destination for couples looking to relax and enjoy some romantic time together. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner, a fun activity, or a relaxing spa day, Waikiki has something for everyone. 

 

Enjoy a Romantic Dinner

Waikiki is home to some of the best restaurants in the world, offering a wide variety of cuisines and dining experiences. Start your planning with any of these restaurants for a romantic dinner in Waikiki:

  • La Mer: An upscale French restaurant located in the luxurious Halekulani Hotel, offering high-end cuisine and a romantic atmosphere with ocean views.
  • La Vie: This elegant restaurant serves modern French fare and is known for its enchanting ambiance and impeccable service.
  • Roy’s Waikiki: This contemporary Hawaiian fusion restaurant is known for its romantic atmosphere and delicious seafood dishes.
  • Orchids: This stylish restaurant offers a beautiful view of Waikiki Beach while serving elevated coastal Italian cuisine with Hawaiian elements. The excellent Sunday brunch is a popular local favorite.
  • The Beachhouse at the Moana Surfrider: Modern Hawaii-inspired cuisine served in an elegant setting, with a beautiful view of the sunset and the option for outdoor dining.
  • Sushi Sho: An exquisite sushi experience served by a master chef in an intimate and exclusive setting. Reservations are required.
  • House Without A Key: Upscale small plates served in a casual atmosphere, with live entertainment and signature cocktails. Perfect for enjoying the Waikiki sunset with a drink in hand.
  • Duke’s Waikiki: A popular beachfront restaurant serving fresh seafood with a laid-back Hawaiian ambiance.

Find Something Fun or Romantic to Do

Waikiki offers plenty of activities for couples to enjoy, from relaxing spa treatments to exciting water sports. Treat your sweetheart to some of the most popular romantic activities in Waikiki:

  • Spa day: Waikiki is home to some of the best spas in the world, offering a wide variety of treatments for couples to enjoy. The Moana Lani Spa at Moana Surfrider resort is located on the waterfront, offering a range of spa treatments for couples in rooms overlooking the beach. The Abhasa Spa at Royal Hawaiian resort provides a lush garden environment for outdoor couples massages or facials. For couples who prefer privacy, the Kahala Spa offers private suites for the ultimate secluded relaxation experience.
  • Sunset sail: Take a romantic sunset sail on a catamaran and watch the sun go down over the ocean. Many companies offer sunset sail packages that include drinks or dinner options.
  • Helicopter tour: See Waikiki from a different perspective with a thrilling helicopter tour. These tours offer breathtaking views of the island of Oahu and the ocean.
  • Hike to Diamond Head: This popular hike offers a beautiful view of Waikiki and the ocean. It’s a great way to spend some time together and get some exercise.
  • Take a surf lesson: Waikiki’s clear and calm waters make it one of the best places in the world to learn to surf. Take a surf lesson together and enjoy the thrill of riding the waves. The beach is lined with stands like Stoke Drift offering lessons and board rentals.
  • Experience a Luau: Immerse yourself in the quintessential Hawaii experience with a luau show. Popular local options include Rock-A-Hula, or Nutridge Estate for a more intimate setting.

Waikiki is the perfect destination for a romantic vacation with something for every couple to enjoy. Book your vacation rental in Waikiki through Novation Realty today and sweep your special person off their feet!

 

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Thanksgiving in Waikiki

Thanksgiving is a time of gratitude and appreciation. Why not give thanks on the shores of Oahu this year? Perfect weather, magnificent scenery and laid-back vibes makes Waikiki the perfect place to celebrate Thanksgiving with your loved ones.

If you want to prepare a traditional Thanksgiving meal, grocery options can be found at the Ala Moana outdoor shopping mall, a ten minute drive from the heart of Waikiki. There you will find a large variety of ingredients available at Whole Foods and Foodland Farms. Safeway on Kapahulu Avenue is another option ten minutes east of Waikiki.

Feel like letting someone else take care of the meal? There are tons of choices for pre-made takeaway meals or Thanksgiving buffets from local restaurants:

  • Deck Bar and Grill is offering pre-made meals for pick-up and a Thanksgiving buffet with views of Diamondhead (reservations required).
  • M.A.C. 24/7 offers Thanksgiving brunch and dinner in the restaurant, as well as ready-to-eat takeaway meal packages.
  • Tikis Grill has a Thanksgiving prix-fixe menu with traditional and island flavors (pre-paid reservations required).
  • An upscale Thanksgiving dinner experience can be found at Stripsteak or La Vie.
  • Venture a little further from Waikiki to Hau Tree for beachside dining at the foot of Diamondhead.
  • For dinner and a show, visit Rock-A-Hula for their Thanksgiving Luau Buffet and Hawaiian Show.

The day before Thanksgiving, the Royal Hawaiian Center is hosting a Holiday Kick-Off with hula performances, a tree lighting ceremony and a visit from Santa. The day after Thanksgiving, don’t miss the Waikiki Holiday Parade commemorating the anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor. The parade route runs down Kalakaua Avenue and draws thousands of people, so get there early to get a spot. After the parade, head to Ala Moana Center to score some Black Friday deals.

Come celebrate the spirit of mahalo on our beautiful island this Thanksgiving. Book your vacation rental today!

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