Waikīkī is one of those rare destinations that feels easy and exciting at the same time: postcard beaches, iconic hikes, world-class hotels, and an endless lineup of places to eat. If you’re planning a trip this year, this updated guide covers the stuff you actually want to know—how to find great flight deals, the easiest ways to get from HNL to Waikīkī, our favorite restaurants for breakfast and dinner, spa picks, and what to do when it rains in paradise.
Why Waikīkī is such a smart trip right now
Waikīkī is perfect for travelers who want a mix of beach days + city convenience. You can wake up near the ocean, grab excellent coffee on foot, spend the afternoon shopping or snorkeling, and still make it to sunset dinner without a car.
And yes—flight deals do pop up, especially if you’re flexible with travel days and set alerts. Southwest’s Hawaii expansion years ago added more competition on many West Coast routes, and that pressure can still show up in pricing when sales hit.
How we find the best flight deals to Honolulu (HNL)
If you only do one thing: set alerts early and let the price drops come to you.
1) Google Flights (our #1)
- Search your dates, then toggle Track prices
- Use flexible dates (even ±2 days helps)
- Filter by 1 stop max and realistic departure times
2) Airline fare calendars
Hawaiian and other carriers often make it easiest to spot cheaper days when you can view a calendar-style fare grid.
3) Going (deal alerts)
Going is great if you like “tell me when it’s cheap” rather than hunting manually. Set your home airports, select Hawaii as a destination, and let it do the scanning.
Bonus deal tips
- Travel midweek (Tue–Thu is often friendlier)
- Consider flying into HNL and island-hopping later
- If you use points, compare value vs cash—Hawaii awards can be amazing (or awful) depending on season
Getting to Waikīkī from Honolulu Airport (HNL)
You’ve got five main options: rideshare, taxi, shuttle, rental car, or public transit. Choose based on your group size, luggage, and patience level.
1) Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)
For most travelers (especially 2+ people), rideshare is the easiest “vacation starts now” option.
Pro tip: Don’t rely on memory—follow in-app instructions and airport signage. Uber’s pickup guidance is designed to route you to the correct zone. (Uber)
The State of Hawaiʻi airport map also shows designated ride-app pickup areas at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, including specific references to terminals and baggage claim areas. (Hawaii Airports)
2) Taxi
Taxis are simple if you want zero app juggling—walk up, load bags, go.
3) Shuttle
Shuttles can be very budget-friendly, but they often mean multiple hotel stops before you reach yours. Great for solo travelers; less great when you’re tired and ready for the beach.
4) Rental car
If Waikīkī is your home base and you’re not doing lots of North Shore / windward / big day trips, you may not need one. (Parking fees add up fast.) Consider renting for just 1–2 days instead.
5) Public transportation (TheBus + Skyline connections)
Oʻahu’s public transit can be a legitimate option if you pack light and don’t mind a little extra time.
- TheBus adult fare is listed at $3.00 on the City & County of Honolulu’s DTS site (always double-check current fares before you ride). (City and County of Honolulu)
- Skyline rail now connects with airport access and bus connections beyond Middle Street, including onward travel toward town areas. (City and County of Honolulu)
- The airport’s transit page also outlines bus routing that continues toward Ala Moana and Waikīkī. (Hawaii Airports)
Best restaurants in Waikīkī
We’re always chasing that sweet spot: “wow” food without feeling like we paid a tourist tax. Here are the places we keep recommending.
Dinner favorites
Quiora (Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikīkī)
A “special night” pick with elevated Italian and gorgeous views. If you love seafood-forward pastas, this one is a win. (QUIORA)
Azure (The Royal Hawaiian)
If you’re going upscale, Azure is a classic: oceanfront vibes and a polished, prix-fixe-style experience (menu details and pricing can change seasonally). (Royal Hawaiian Resort)
Paia Fish Market (Waikīkī)
Fresh fish plates and tacos that hit the spot when you want something casual but legit.
Beach House
Fantastic sunset energy, craft cocktails, and a menu that feels like vacation on a plate.
Uncle Bo’s (Kapahulu)
A true local gem just outside the busiest strip—make reservations if you can.
Best breakfast spots in Waikīkī
Cinnamon’s (Ilikai area)
Solid breakfast classics and a great “start the day” atmosphere.
Kono’s (breakfast burritos)
Perfect if you’re heading out early for a hike or a day trip—grab-and-go friendly.
Leonard’s Bakery
Malasadas are iconic for a reason. Go early or expect a line (it moves!).
Kona Coffee Purveyors
Our favorite for pastry + coffee when you want something lighter but excellent.
Island Vintage Coffee
A very “Waikīkī morning” kind of stop—popular, worth it, and consistent.
Dean & Deluca
Quick, easy, dependable for breakfast sandwiches and coffee.
Basalt (Duke Lane Market)
Usually less waiting, great value, and it also doubles as a dinner recommendation.
Pack-and-go lunch for beach days
Island Country Markets
This is the underrated move for busy days: quick deli options, snacks, drinks, and easy picnic supplies when you’d rather be on the sand than sitting at a table.
Spa day: the best way to “do nothing” on purpose
If you want a true resort reset, Moana Lani Spa at the Moana Surfrider is a top-tier pick and is widely promoted as a luxury oceanfront spa experience. (Moana Lani Spa)
Spa-day tip: book late afternoon if you can—stepping out relaxed and walking into sunset Waikīkī feels unreal.
What to do when it rains in paradise
Rain happens—and honestly, it’s a great excuse to slow down. Here are rainy-day ideas that still feel like vacation:
- Spa day (hello, Moana Surfrider)
- Ala Moana Center shopping + lunch
- Museums & cultural stops in Honolulu
- Food crawl (coffee + malasadas + a long lunch is a vibe)
- Hotel pool + hot tub time (many resorts keep the fun going even in light rain)
- Book a nice dinner earlier and lean into a cozy night
Quick FAQs travelers ask every time
Do I need a reservation for Diamond Head?
If you’re visiting from out of state, yes—entry and parking reservations are required for non-residents, and the official DLNR page also lists hours, closures, and fees.
How much is TheBus?
Honolulu DTS lists $3.00 adult fare (verify before your trip in case fare policies update).
Where do I meet my Uber/Lyft at HNL?
Follow the app instructions, and use the airport’s official ride-app pickup info/map when you land. (Uber)