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7 Days in Paradise: Exploring Honolulu's Hidden Gems

Sophia Malgrab

Sophia Malgrab

28 Nov 2023

Embark on a breathtaking journey through Honolulu, where turquoise waters meet golden sands. Discover ancient marvels, lush gardens, and stunning trails as you immerse yourself in the beauty of this tropical paradise. Join us on this unforgettable adventure!

Day 1Conquer the Diamond Head Summit and Unwind at Waiʻalae Beach
+

$50

·

$ 12

Diamond Head State Monument
A trail leads visitors to the summit of this volcanic tuff cone & former fort with panoramic views.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
$50
14 - 17 min

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Directions

Waiʻalae Beach Park
Oceanfront park offering a pristine setting for sun, picnics & water activities.
10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Free
Day 2Lose Yourself in the Tranquil Oasis of Lyon Arboretum and Chase Waterfalls at Manoa Falls
+

$50

·

$ 24

Lyon Arboretum
194-acre tropical rainforest features 5,000 exotic plants, singing birds & a self-guided hike.
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
$25
2 - 3 min

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Directions

Manoa Falls
A celebrated hiking area, this 150-foot waterfall is set amid tropical vegetation & an arboretum.
11:30 AM - 1:30 PM
$25
46 - 56 min

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Directions

Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden
400 acres of tropical plants along with a man-made freshwater lake, hiking trails & camping.
No time set
Free
Day 3Soak up the Sun at Fort DeRussy Beach Park and Stroll Along the Vibrant Waikiki Beach Walk
+

$25

·

$ 24

Fort DeRussy Beach Park
This oceanfront park offers beach swimming, showers & a grassy area with picnic tables & grills.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Free
5 - 8 min

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Directions

Waikiki Beach Walk
Open-air, 2-level mall with boutiques & restaurants, plus weekly yoga, hula & concerts.
10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Free
24 - 29 min

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Directions

Tantalus Lookout - Puu Ualakaa State Park
Scenic lookout featuring striking views of the Diamond Head volcano cone & the Waikiki skyline.
No time set
Free
30 - 36 min

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Directions

Diamond Head
Iconic volcanic peak, home to hiking trails & remains of historical military fortifications.
No time set
$25
Day 4Experience Nature's Splendor at Ala Moana Regional Park and Lounge at the Pristine Kahanamoku Beach
+

$0

·

$ 24

Ala Moana Regional Park
This 100-acre park with a man-made beach offers usually calm surf, plus tennis courts & a pavilion.
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Free
11 - 14 min

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Directions

Kahanamoku Beach
This sandy, curved beach offers swimming, surfing, paddle-boarding & sunning.
11:30 AM - 1:30 PM
Free
20 - 24 min

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Directions

Diamond Head Beach Park
Formed from volcanic eruption, this landmark park rests in a crater & has stunning shoreline views.
No time set
Free
Day 5Immerse Yourself in Nature's Playground at Kapiʻolani Regional Park and Conquer the Legendary Koko Head
+

$0

·

$ 24

Kapiʻolani Regional Park
A public, oceanfront park with volcano views, a beach, volleyball, picnicking & canoeing.
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Free
21 - 26 min

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Directions

Koko Head
A challenging trail leads to the peak of this extinct volcano, offering panoramic views.
11:30 AM - 1:30 PM
Free
18 - 22 min

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Directions

Dolphin Quest Oahu - Swim with Dolphins
Interactive dolphin experiences including swimming, feeding & petting in an enclosed lagoon.
No time set
Free
Day 6Unveil the Botanical Wonders of Koko Crater Garden and Witness the Majestic Makapu‘u Point Lighthouse
+

$0

·

$ 24

Koko Crater Botanical Garden
This 200-acre crater with lake & beach is planted with 60 acres of blooming plants, cacti & foliage.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Free
13 - 16 min

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Directions

Makapu‘u Point Lighthouse Trail
Natural hiking area with paved trail & overlook, ocean views, lighthouse & whale-watching potential.
10:30 AM - 1:30 PM
Free
6 - 8 min

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Directions

Halona Beach Cove
Small, scenic cove surrounded by jagged cliffs features a sandy beach & sweeping views at sunrise.
No time set
Free
Day 7Bask in the Sun and Ride the Waves at Sandy Beach
+

$0

Sandy Beach
Surfers are drawn to the large waves at this scenic beach with food trucks often in the parking lot.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Free

Budget breakdown: $257 In total

Activities & Food:$125
Transport:$132