Welcome to your happy, sun-soaked 7-day Waikiki itinerary—built for first-timers, repeat visitors, and anyone who wants that perfect mix of beach time, iconic Oahu sights, Hawaiian culture, and incredible food. Waikiki makes it easy to say “yes” to everything: golden sand mornings, oceanfront lunches, scenic hikes, and nights filled with live music and aloha spirit.
This guide walks you through exactly what to do each day, with simple pacing, smart logistics, and plenty of flexibility. Let’s make your week in paradise feel effortless.
Before You Go: Quick Waikiki Planning Tips
Where you’ll be based: Waikiki sits on Oahu’s south shore, about 10 miles from the airport. Honolulu’s airport is officially Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL). Hawaii Airports+1
Getting around:
- Waikiki-only days: walk, trolley, rideshare, or TheBus
- North Shore / Windward days: rent a car for 1–2 days, or book a small-group tour
- Parking tip: many Waikiki hotels charge for parking—factor that in if you’re renting a car
Reserve early (especially in peak season):
Some of Oahu’s most popular experiences now require timed entry or reservations, so it pays to plan your “must-dos” first (details are included in the relevant days below).
Day 1: Arrive + Waikiki Beach Sunset Night
Morning / Midday
- Land at HNL and transfer to Waikiki (shuttle, rideshare, taxi, or pre-booked car)
- Check in, drop bags, and do a quick “vacation reset”: shower, sandals, sunscreen, and you’re ready
Afternoon
- Head straight to Waikiki Beach for your first dip—keep it simple and sweet
- Walk the beachfront promenade and people-watch (it’s practically a Waikiki tradition)
Evening
- Sunset on the sand (or from a beachfront patio)
- Dinner idea: classic oceanfront seafood and a tropical drink to officially kick off the week
- Optional: a low-key stroll through Waikiki for live music and open-air shopping
Day 2: Pearl Harbor + Historic Downtown Honolulu
Today is meaningful, moving, and absolutely worth it.
Morning
- Start early at Pearl Harbor National Memorial
- The USS Arizona Memorial program is a top priority for most visitors—reserve ahead when possible (ticketing has evolved over time, so plan in advance).
Afternoon
- Head to downtown Honolulu for a history-filled afternoon:
- ʻIolani Palace (royal history and an unforgettable look at Hawaiʻi’s past)
- A relaxed walk through the historic district (King Street, the grounds around the palace, and nearby landmarks)
Evening
- Explore Chinatown for food and atmosphere: noodles, dim sum, cocktails, or a dessert crawl
- If you’re tired, swap Chinatown nightlife for an easy Waikiki dinner and an early bedtime
Day 3: Diamond Head Sunrise Hike + Beach Time in Waikiki
This day is a Waikiki classic: epic views, then pure relaxation.
Early Morning
- Hike Diamond Head for panoramic views over Waikiki and the coast
- Non-residents typically need advanced reservations for entry/parking, so lock in a time slot before your trip.
Late Morning
- Post-hike reward: a big brunch back in Waikiki (you earned it)
Afternoon
- Choose your beach vibe:
- Swim & sun at Waikiki
- Surf lesson (Waikiki’s gentle breaks are famously beginner-friendly)
Evening
- Luau night (perfect midweek splurge): expect a feast, music, and Polynesian dance performances
- If luaus aren’t your thing, do a sunset catamaran cruise instead
Day 4: North Shore Adventure Day (Surf Towns, Views, and Shave Ice)
Time to see Oahu’s wilder, more laid-back side.
Morning
- Drive to the North Shore (start early to beat traffic)
- First stops: scenic lookouts and beach parks
Midday
- Cruise the famous shoreline:
- Waimea Bay and Sunset Beach (legendary surf spots)
- In winter, waves can be massive—watch from shore and respect warning signs
Afternoon
- Spend time in Haleʻiwa:
- Boutique shopping, local art, and that “slow down” small-town feel
- Shave ice is basically required (yes, even if it’s your second dessert today)
Evening
- Head back to Waikiki
- Dinner idea: casual local plate lunch, poke, or a waterfront burger and fries
Day 5: Hawaiian Culture + Waikiki Nightlife
Today blends museums and modern Waikiki fun.
Morning
- Bishop Museum for an excellent deep dive into Hawaiian history, artifacts, and culture
- Take your time—this is one of those places where you’ll keep saying “wow, I didn’t know that”
Afternoon
- Return to Waikiki for beach lounging, shopping, or a spa afternoon
Evening (Nightlife Menu—pick your mood)
- Rooftop cocktails with city-and-ocean views
- Live music (Waikiki has something nightly, from acoustic sets to full bands)
- Dance night if you want high energy
- Prefer mellow? Do dessert + a moonlit beach walk instead
Day 6: Hanauma Bay Snorkel Day (or a Windward Coast Swap)
If you love snorkeling, today will be a highlight.
Morning
- Head to Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve early
- Important planning note: Hanauma Bay is closed Mondays and Tuesdays and typically uses an online reservation system with limited availability.
Midday
- Snorkel, float, and take breaks on the sand
- Keep it reef-safe: don’t touch coral, give wildlife space, and take your time—there’s no need to rush
Afternoon
- Optional scenic add-on on the way back:
- A lookout stop
- A short coastal walk
- A relaxed late lunch in East Honolulu
Windward Coast Swap (if Hanauma reservations don’t work out)
- Spend the day in Kailua / Lanikai for postcard beaches and calm-water swimming
Day 7: Choose-Your-Own Finale + Last Night in Waikiki
Your final day should feel like a love letter to the trip.
Option A: Easy Waikiki Bliss
- Sleep in
- Beach morning + souvenir shopping
- A long lunch somewhere you loved (or a new spot you didn’t get to try)
Option B: One More “Wow” Hike
- A sunrise climb (short, steep, and sweaty—but unforgettable)
- Return for a beach nap and a pool float session
Option C: Markets + Local Flavors
- Grab coffee and wander a local market (great for gifts, snacks, and handmade finds)
Final Evening
- Pick a “big finish” dinner:
- Duke’s Waikiki for beachfront vibes, seafood, and classic Waikiki energy
- Roy’s Waikiki for a more elevated, special-occasion feel
- Marukame Udon for a casual, budget-friendly favorite (go early or off-peak)
Then do one last sunset stroll. It’s the best kind of goodbye.
FAQ (Updated)
Is Hanauma Bay closed on certain days?
Yes—Hanauma Bay is closed Mondays and Tuesdays, and reservations are limited, so plan ahead.
Do I need reservations for Diamond Head?
Non-residents generally need advance entry/parking reservations for Diamond Head, especially during peak travel seasons.
How do I plan for the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor?
Ticketing and access can change, but reservations are strongly recommended and are handled through the official systems used by the National Park Service and Recreation.gov.
Vacation-Waikiki.com offers the ultimate Waikiki vacation itinerary, providing seven days of island bliss, ensuring an unforgettable and credible experience for travelers seeking a remarkable getaway in Waikiki.