How Much Does It Cost To Go To Hawaii

People often ask: How much does it cost to go to Hawaii? Can I afford to go to Hawaii? It's all relative of course. Here are some facts:

• The cost of going to Hawaii has gone up greatly in the last several years and is sadly becoming a destination for primarily the wealthy
• The island you choose to go to can greatly effect the cost. Oahu being the most frequented island is often cheaper to fly to but the overall spending will tend to be highest there due to the vast options of where and how to spend money. I give the example that flying to Las Vegas is typically much cheaper than flying to Reno, NV due to the fact that Vegas has a major, international airport with many flights scheduled there. Conversely, little old Reno tends to have pricier flights as there are less flight available to go there. You may not even be able to find a direct flight. That being said, your spending will likely be much greater in Vegas with it's plethora of eating, shopping, and entertainment options. In Reno you only have so many places to spend money.
• There are only 2 ways to get to Hawaii - boat or plane. Plane being the more economical as cruises to Hawaii are generally close to $1,500 to $2,000 per person, assuming double occupancy from the West Coast. Similarly a flight may cost $500-$700 on average (note I said average, I do understand this can vary quite a bit).
• Recently the Hawaiian Islands have seen a race of major Hotel corporations buying out the smaller and local hotels. Sadly, this has created a bit of oligopoly where there are small number of hotels controlling all the lodging markets in Hawaii. As you can imagine, the costs have thus gone up dramatically over the years. In Waikiki, Hawaii's most popular tourist district, you can expect hotels to range from $170 (after taxes and fees) to an easy $500+ per night. Sadly one should not expect much from the $170 range hotels as they are little better than a Motel 6 in other parts of the world.
• AIRBNB and VRBO are valid options for lodging. Just do your due diligence. For example: Parking can be very scarce in Honolulu. Believe it or not, Hawaii does have it's share of poor and possibly dangerous neighborhoods. Cockroaches tend to be abundant in most homes, whether it be worth $200k or $1M, there's not much that can be done. You often don't see the roaches at the hotels because your are often several stories up where they can be better controlled.
• Shopping can be cheaper as sales tax in Hawaii is lower the most major cities. I believe currently 4 to 4.5%.
• Food tends to cost more as much of it is shipped to Hawaii. I suggest eating local, not big chain. Local foods tend to be more affordable as some is sourced locally and the ingredients will often not be those things that cost an arm and a leg to acquire. A classic example is that milk may cost about $8/gal, case of bottled water perhaps $6, dozen eggs maybe $4. McDonalds will run an easy $10+ for a combo.

• Rental cars tend to cost a little more on Oahu than say Maui or Kauai. That said, it's always based on supply and demand and can easily work the other way. On average I've paid about $50/day for regular cars on all islands, and about $90/day for minivans/large SUV's.
• Nearly everything costs double or more in the tourist districts. Whether you're in Waikiki, Lahaina, Poipu, or the hotel lobby, drinks and food will probably be high. Perhaps $10 beer, $20 cocktail, $20 burger.
• If you're on the West Coast, Hawaii is still possibly your best valued tropical destination. If you're on the East Coast or Southern US, perhaps the Caribbean, Costa Rica, or Puerto Rico may be more cost effective.

In summary, yes, Hawaii can be very expensive. Keep in mind, the beaches and hikes are free (ok, at least cheap). You can't put a price on the Aloha spirit and experience.
*For suggestions on ways to earn points or miles to put towards travel expenses, please check out my other posts:
Earn a Free Trip / Cash with Chase Ultimate Rewards Credit Cards
Chase Sapphire Preferred Review – Best Cash / Points Bonus
Good luck getting to paradise.

Hawaii Beach Guide - Find the best beach for you - Oahu

Here is a short guide to some of the beaches on Oahu.  There is almost always a beach to fit your needs and moods, you are on an island after all.

Family Friendly
Waikiki Beach - Located in Waikiki on Kalakaua Blvd. Parking is scarce refer to my parking blog for tips. Mostly tourists.  There are restrooms at most the hotels. Food and beverage are easily available. Lifeguards on duty.
Ala Moana Beach - Located across from the Ala Moana Mall on Ala Moana Blvd. There is a parking lot here.  A mix of mostly locals with a good number or tourists as well.  Public restrooms with showers. There is a snack shack. Lifeguards on duty.

Kahala Beach - Located in front of the Kahala Beach Park and Kahala Mandarin Hotel. There is a small parking lot here. Rarely many people here, being a mix of both locals and tourists. Public restrooms with showers. Restaurants are available at the Kahala Mandarin Hotel as well as free parking with validation of $50. There may not be any lifeguards here.

Kailua Beach - Located in Kailua, on the East side of the island. There is a parking lot here.  Locals and tourists will be found here. Public restrooms with showers. There is a market and deli at the entrance of the parking lot. Lifeguards are on duty but not as plentiful as say Waikiki.

Ko'olina Lagoons - Located in Ko'olina in front of the Marriot Ihilani and Disney's Aulani Resort. This is the West side of the island. Tiny amount of public parking here as well as hotel parking, refer to my parking blog for parking tips.  Restrooms and showers are available.  Both hotels have indoor and outdoor dining available. Mostly tourists. There may be lifeguards on duty.

Snorkeling
Hanauma Bay - Located near Hawaii Kai about 20-30 minute drive away from Waikiki. $1 parking available. Admission last I remember was $7.50 for adults or free for Kamaaina (locals). Restrooms and showers available. A snack shack near the main entrance. Lifeguards on duty.  A reminder: The beach park is closed on Tuesdays.

Sharks Cove - Located in the North Shore of Oahu.  Parking lot available. No rental snorkel gear available, you can buy a cheap set at Walmart, Target, or even a local gift shop or grocery store sometimes.Restrooms and showers available.  No lifeguards on duty.  Be careful during winter months, as swells can get big here during those times.

Kuhio Beach - Located just to the east of Waikiki Beach. This is the portion by the rock wall and to the east of it. Believe it or not, if you swim through the opening of the rock wall by the little pier, you can see some sea life around the rocks and coral.  Lifeguards on duty. Be careful of waves crashing you into the rock wall itself.

Watersports
Waikiki Beach - Offers surf board, bodyboard, and paddle board rentals or lessons.
Fort Derussy Beach - Located just west of Waikiki Beach in front of the Outrigger Reef Hotel closer to the Hilton Hawaiian Village. There are rentals for paddle boats, stand up paddle boards, water bicycles, and kayaks.

Kailua Beach - Located on the east side of the island, about a 35 minute drive from Waikiki.  There are kayak rentals as well as kite surfing lessons.  If kite surfing, you should call one of the local companies to set an appointment prior to going.
Hawaii Kai - About a 25 minute drive eastbound from Waikiki. There are a few water sports stores in the Koko Marina Shopping Center or the Costco Shopping Center (sorry, cant remember the actual name of the plaza). At these locations you can set up jet skiing, parasail, banana boat rides, and Snuba (scuba with an air hose going up to air tanks above the water, meaning no scuba training needed).

Less Crowded Beaches:
Makai Pier - Located on the east side, in Waimanalo. The is a small dirt patch where you can park. Facing the ocean, to the right of the pier is best for swimming, to the left is better for snorkeling or diving.  No lifeguards on duty.

Cromwell's - Just a few miles east of Waikiki, is the hidden beach know as Cromwell's.  Not necessarily a swimming friendly beach (too many rocks), but a beautiful and secluded area. No bathrooms, no showers. Head east onto Diamond Head road, and turn right at Kulamanu St. Find street parking and head towards the ocean to find beach access.

Lanikai Beach - In Kailua, lies this once hidden gem. This once secretive location is now widely publicized. Street parking only and very limited (be careful as parking tickets are liberally given). No bathrooms or showers available. This is a swimming friendly beach.
Queen's Beach - Located just below the Makapuu Lighthouse from the same shared parking lot. From the parking lot you will see a beaten path down and to the right. Follow this path for about 20 minutes and it will take you to the secluded Queens Beach.  Above the beach you will see the famous Pele's Chair rock formation, looks like a chair.  Until recently there was a telephone pole protruding out from the rocks allowing kids to jump into the water. It seems some a--hole has cut it down.  This is still a beautiful spot. No showers or bathrooms. Beware centipedes along the trail to the beach, they can and will sting you.

Kualoa Beach and Chinamens Hat - Located across from Kualoa Ranch is Kualoa Beach with the famous Chinamens Hat. Parking lot available. Bathrooms and showers available.  No lifeguards on duty. During negative tide, you can actually walk to Chinamens Hat, the little island off shore. Be sure to leave yourself enough time to get back before the tides change and proceed at your own risk. Otherwise you can take kayak tours with Kualoa Ranch.

I've only listed a few beaches, of which there are still many other secluded beaches on the island. You are on an island after all.


Best Beaches for Singles and "People Watching"
Waikiki Beach - Located in Waikiki on Kalakaua Blvd. Parking is scarce refer to my parking blog for tips. Mostly tourists.  There are restrooms at most the hotels. Food and beverage are easily available. Lifeguards on duty.

Ala Moana Beach - Located across from the Ala Moana Mall on Ala Moana Blvd. There is a parking lot here.  A mix of mostly locals with a good number or tourists as well.  Public restrooms with showers. There is a snack shack. Lifeguards on duty.
Sandy Beach - Located just 2.5 miles back south of Makapu'u Beach. Parking lot available. Bathrooms and showers available. Lifeguards on duty. Mostly locals. Caution: unless you are an olympic swimmer or were pretty much raised in the water like the locals, do NOT attempt to swim here.  Very strong shore break and rip tides.

Sunset Beach - Oahu's North Shore. Parking lot available. Bathrooms and showers available. Lifeguards on duty.  Known for huge waves during the winter months. Swimming not advised at these times.

Waimea Bay - Oahu's North Shore. Parking lot available. Bathrooms and showers available. Lifeguards on duty.  Known for huge waves during the winter months. Swimming not advised at these times.

Enjoy all the beaches. Don't forget your sunblock and pay attention to all warnings and postings. Aloha!

Where to Stay in Oahu / Honolulu - Which Part of the Island Will Suit Me?

There are many lodging options in Oahu and choosing where to stay can prove to be a frustrating task.
One must first decide which part of the island to stay on.

Waikiki

Most visitors will end up staying in Waikiki. Waikiki is the tourist district (not a city) within Honolulu (the city and county) on the island of Oahu (one of Hawaii's many islands). Located on the south side of Oahu, Waikiki has been compared to staying on the Strip in Vegas.  If you don't mind crowds, this is the place to be. Waikiki offers world class dining as well as great hole in the wall restaurants. More nightclubs and bars than one would expect in Hawaii. There's the beautiful people, street performers at night, live music and shows, world class shopping, and of course the beautiful (but often crowded) Waikiki Beach. Waikiki is both family and adult friendly. The vast majority of visitors to the island will stay in Waikiki.

Even for those who don't like the big crowds, Waikiki is conveniently located to many sites on Oahu and has the most lodging options available. One could often drive out of Waikiki to enjoy what many refer to as the "true Hawaii", where things are little less unspoiled.

North Shore

The North Shore is in many ways the extreme opposite of Waikiki. Largely undeveloped, here you can enjoy the slower pace of island life and enjoy a much quieter and peaceful stay. "Keep the country country" is a phrase often heard in reference to North Shore.

As you can guess, the North Shore is located on the north shore of Oahu. Acquiring lodging can be a bit more difficult to find on the North Shore. You can look into staying at the famous Turtle Beach Resort, though it can be pretty pricey to stay at or perhaps the newish Courtyard Oahu Marriott in Laie, a slightly more affordable option. Other options are renting a house or condo at www.VRBO.com or even Airbnb.

On this side of the island, you can find a nice uncrowded beach. You are close to Waimea Beach famous for the surf and the "Jump Rock" (jump at your own risk) and Sunset Beach, also home of famous surf and a beautiful sunset.  North Shore is also home to the small, quaint town of Haleiwa, as well as the famous Shrimp Trucks of Kahuku. Other popular sights include Waimea Falls, the Dole Plantation, Laniakea "Turtle" beach (beware parking is no illegal there), and the great snorkel/dive spot known as Sharks Cove.

Two words of caution: 1. Waves/surf can be very dangerous during winter months and 2. Traffic can be horrendous during surf contests.

If you prefer peace, quiet, and can afford to do so...Oahu's North Shore may be the place for you.

West Side / Ko Olina

Most tourists will never frequent the West side of Oahu. The west of the island offers far less touristy things to do and is populated by mostly locals. It happens to be the driest part of the island. Most visitors who stay on the West, will end up staying in Ko Olina.

Ko Olina is home to the Disney Aulani Hotel as well as the Marriott Ihilani. These are two famous resorts on the island. These are popular family destinations for the fact that they are true resorts and have many amenities in once place. The disdain of staying on the West is that you are far from Town, being central Honolulu. There will be few if any options for any sort of nightlife. One will probably do most if not all your dining on the resort grounds. If you go anywhere to see sights, it's likely you'll have a bit of a drive ahead of you.

That being said the resorts are beautiful. If you want to conveniently stay in one place and just relax, the resorts in Ko Olina may be for you. FYI, these resorts are not for those on tight budgets.

Kailua

Kailua is a small, suburban town on the eastern side of the island. Home of the beautiful Lanikai Beach (often named the most beautiful beach in the US. Similar to the West Side and North Shore, Kailua town will probably better suit those who prefer more quiet and calm. Kailua is a little closer to Town and "civilization". You can find several charming restaurants, stores, and even a shopping mall nearby. A good median between the extremes of staying in Waikiki and the sometimes too quiet or uneventful, Ko Olina.

Your lodging options are limited in Kailua. There is one self proclaimed "resort" in Kailua, unfortunately it really isn't much of a resort at all. Other than that, there a few bed and breakfasts and the options of VRBO or AirBNB. It may prove to be harder to find cheaper accommodations in Kailua, just like it would be in the North Shore.

Typically the older, affluent types enjoy Kailua more than Waikiki. Kailua has a more suburuban feel. It has that kind of "Maui" feel, those of you who've been to both islands will understand. This is the same area that President Obama stays at when he visits.

Final Tip

For those who can't decide which side of the island to stay on, I would suggest you stay in Waikiki as the as the vast majority of visitors will do the same. You can always drive out of Waikiki and enjoy the other areas.

Eating On Oahu

Many people don't realize that Oahu has a large selection of world class food. I've compiled a short list of some of my favorite places to eat. Of course this list is debatable. I have done my best to omit eateries with locations in the mainland United States. As long as you're visiting Hawaii, you should try something you can't get back home.

Tip 1 - Do not overly rely on Yelp in Hawaii as the large number of reviews from tourists are often unreliable. The same way I might not rely on an American's review of Brazilian food in Brazil, I might not trust someone from Texas to judge local Hawaii food.

Tip 2 - The demographics of Oahu tends to be mostly Asian, with a large White and Pacific Islander population as well. That being said, it's safe to assume the Asian, White, and Pacific Islander food on the island is great. Point being, one might not find the best Mexican or Indian food on the island. Who goes to China to eat Italian food? On the same note, stick to what Hawaii does best.

Tip 3 - "Hawaiian food" refers to the food consumed by the native Hawaiians (Hawaiian ancestory), Hawaiian food may include poi, lau lau, lomi salmon, and poke. Hawaii food refers to food popular among locals in Hawaii. Hawaii food may include loco moco, ramen, plate lunch, saimin and others.

The List:

Waikiki (within the Waikiki Beach Area)

Roys Waikiki  $$$  Fine dining. Serving Pacific Rim Fusion. Owned by the famous local chef, Roy Yamaguchi. I would assume swimwear and slippers would be frowned upon here, even though it is in Waikiki.

Marukame Udon - $  Casual dining, counter service. Perhaps the hottest new eatery in Waikiki (as if August 2012). Very well priced and valued. Make noodles on site. Be prepared to stand in line, though the lines move quickly. CASH ONLY

Dukes - $$ Casual dining on the beach. Table service. A must do in Waikiki. Food is average bar food but you are paying for the real estate and ambiance. Poke is good. Located in the Outrigger Waikiki Hotel on the beach. Often has live music.

The Beach Bar - $$ Very similar to Dukes (listed above). Located at the Moana Surfrider Hotel just next door to Dukes in fact. Especially great if Dukes was too packed.

Doraku Sushi - $$ ($ at Happy Hour) Located in the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center. Table service, semi casual. Great Japanese food. Happy hour daily from 5pm - 7pm, I recommend trying the happy hour.

Gyu-kaku - $$ semi casual. Japanese yakiniku, similar to Korean bbq. Grill meats at your own table. Great restaurant. Tip: You will smell like bbq upon leaving.

Nobu Waikiki - $$$$ - Fine dining. Famous restaurant by the award winning Chef Nobu Matuhisa.

Sansei - $$ ($ at Happy Hour) - Casual seafood and sushi restaurant. Famously known for their 50% off Happy Hour at specified times. I recommend checking their Happy Hour times prior to going as they may change. Tip: If trying to catch the happy hour, go at least 30-60 minutes early.

Hula Dog - $ - Casual hot dog stand, formerly known as Puka Dog, as featured on the Travel Channel. Great hot dogs. Located on Kuhio Ave inside the Food Pantry. This location has closed, the only Oahu location is now in Haleiwa, on the North Shore.

Waikiki Yokocho Gourmet Alley - $$ - A casual Japanese Food Court with more choices than you can eat. Located inside the Waikiki Shopping Plaza.

RumFire - $$ ($ at Happy Hour) - Casual, ocean front property with outdoor seating. Very hip and modern compared to Dukes and the like. Great happy hour daily between 4pm-6pm, excluding holidays.

Me's BBQ - $ - Casual, Korean fast food style. Nothing fancy here, hole in the wall with good fast food.


Musubi Cafe Isayume - $ - Casual. Specializes in musubis and small bentos. Tiny, owner operated spot with an assortment of different musubis. Ideally for those who enjoy or at least are willing to try Spam.

Waikiki (just outside Waikiki, may want to taxi or drive)

Zippys - $-$$ Casual, diner style. Zippys is like the Dennys of Hawaii. A must experience while on vacation. Popular items are Korean Chicken, Chili and Chicken, Zip Pac, Sai Min, and Haupia Cake. There are several located around the island, with one conveniently in the Ala Moana Shopping Mall. I personally do not recommend the one on Kapahulu Ave, all the rest are great.

Genki Sushi - $-$$ Casual, table service. Chain restaurant sushi, almost like fast food sushi. A local favorite as the quality is comparable to most Mainland full service sushi and is a la carte, with the rotating sushi conveyor. Several locations on the island, the most convenient of those being located on Kapahulu Ave or 2nd Floor of the Ala Moana Mall.

Chart House - $ Casual, table service. (only recommending Happy Hour) Happy hour daily from open to 7pm, then again from 10pm to closing. Happy hour only available on the bar/lounge side. Recommend the following: Kimchee Fried Rice, Garlic Chicken, Firecracker Unroll

Ala Moana Shopping Mall

Goma Tei Ramen House - $  casual Japanese Ramen house. 

Yummys Korean BBQ - $  casual, fast food style Korean BBQ.

Curry House Coco Ichibanya - $ casual, table service. Japanese style Curry over rice, served with protein, ie chicken katsu, croquet, tako (octopus), etc. As crazy as it sounds, I recommend the Chicken Katsu with Cheese curry plate.

Pineapple Room - $$ semi-casual, Local, Fusion. Owned by the famous chef Alan Wong. Located inside Nordstroms. One of the best Loco Mocos I've had.

Shirokiya Food Court - $-$$ casual. Food court style. Great Japanese food with a huge selection.

Kapahulu Ave. (just outside Waikiki)

Uncle Bo's - $$ semi casual, table service, local dishes

Side Street Inn - $$ casual, table service, local dishes. Satellite location of the original, bringing it closer to Waikiki. As featured on Anthony Bourdain's show.

Rainbow Drive Inn - $ casual, fast food.  Famous plate lunch restaurant. Frequented by Obama. 

Leonards Bakery - $  servings Malasadas (Portuguese donuts) A must try! Very famous local bakery.

Outside Waikiki

Yamas Fish Market - $ casual, only 2 plastic table located outside. Local favorite, serving real local and Hawaiian food ie. Poke, Lau Lau

Kenekes - $ casual, a local favorite, plate lunches. Located in Waimanalo.

Nico's Pier 38 - $-$$ - Casual, best described as a high end plate lunch. A definite must try.

Liliha Bakery - $-$$ - Casual. There is a great diner serving local food as well as an exceptional bakery. Most famous for their Coco Puff pastry. Two locations though the Nimitz Hwy location would be more tourist and parking friendly. 

Mitch's Fish Market - $$$$ - Widely considered the best sushi on the island. Prices are a bit steep and reservations are a must. In fact, reserve before coming out to Hawaii.

Alley Restaurant - $$ - Located inside Aiea Bowl. Not your typical bowling alley fare. Everything is great but they are best known for their Oxtail Soup.

 

Northshore

Giovannis Shrimp Truck $-$$ casual, a famous lunch truck in the town of Kahuku. Best known for the Garlic Scampi. Do not leave the island until you've tried it!

Matsumotos Shave Ice - $ casual, serving Shave (not shaved) Ice, which is like a Hawaiian snow cone, but better. I recommend the shave ice with beans and ice cream.

Kailua

Kalapawai - $ casual, counter service. Serving sandwiches, salads and more. As seen on TV with Rachel Ray.

Boots n Kimos - $-$$ casual, table service. Very popular and famous breakfast spot. Most famous for their pancake syrup. Call ahead as there is often a line. Best to go just outside of breakfast time or closer to lunch to avoid a wait.

 

Getting to Oahu

The only 2 ways of getting to Oahu are clearly airplane and boat.  I choose to fly as cruises aren't really my thing.  The best deals are usually found directly on Hawaiian Airlines or Alaska Airlines. Virgin Airlines often has great fares as well.  Albeit the national airlines, ie. Delta, American, United all fly to Hawaii, the other carriers tend to cost more.  If you do go with another carrier, I suggest checking your options on Kayak.com first.  During off peak season, you can often fly for about $430 round trip with Alaska or Hawaiian. This fare includes all taxes and fees. During peak season, flights can be upward of $1000.  Typically you want to avoid flying from mid May to early September, as these are peak times.  I usually avoid dates close to holidays as well.  I can usually find dirt cheap flights from mid September to early November and mid January to early May.  Again, you'll want to avoid holidays, school vacation times, and major events on the island such as Golden Week or the Honolulu Marathon.

Both Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines offer a points/rewards system that my prove to be beneficial. Both airlines currently offer credit cards with substantial mileage bonuses, it may be possible to earn a free round trip flight during non peak season.  Both offer discounts for a companion that flies with you as well.  Keep in mind that both have annual fees.  I do find the offers to be quite great though.  I'd rather pay a $75 or so annual fee than $450 or so for a round trip flight.  I've once flown in a party of 3 on Hawaiian Air. I was able to use a free flight for 1, and get 25% off of 2 other flights. Total cost for all 3 including the annual fee and all taxes and fees came out to just under $800.  I have also learned that Hawaiian Airlines uses both Barclays and Bank of Hawaii for their credit card. I have signed up for both and received the same offer on both cards. (I make nothing off these suggestions)

Some other options to consider for free or cheap flights would be to earn bonuses via one of the following credit cards that offer rather substantial bonuses upon approval and spending a little money: Chase Sapphire Card, American Express Gold and/or Platinum, Barclays Arrival World Mastercard. Perhaps I will go into further detail on how to best churn credit cards for money and travel in the future. For now, I suggest you do a little research of your own.

There are cruises available to Hawaii. The cruises can be great but keep in mind that you will be spending the bulk of the trip out at sea. The cruises will generally port once at each of the main islands for the better part of a day. The cruises can be great but may not give you the best Hawaii experience considering the little time that is actually spent in Hawaii.

Hawaii can definitely be affordable with a little work and planning. Those that are most flexible with travel dates and times will always get the best deals.

The Circle Island Tour - Oahu

My version of the Circle Island Tour.  This is just a fun and scenic tour from Waikiki, down the windward coast, to North Shore and back down on the freeway.  It is possible to see all the mentioned sites in the same day if need be, though I'd suggest splitting it into two days.  Typically this whole process will take 4-8 hours, depending on how long you stay at each destination of course.

I usually leave Waikiki/Honolulu around 8-9am and head down Kalanianaole Hwy.  First destination is Hanauma Bay.  This is a  nature preserve that is ideal for snorkeling, great for adults and kids alike.  Parking is $1, admission to the park last I checked was $6 or free for Kamaaina (locals).  If you don't have your own snorkel gear, they rent for about $10.  There are bathrooms and a snack shop available as well. This is an absolute must do on Oahu.  While at Hanauma Bay, I usually suggest swimming in first at the Keyhole Lagoon then swimming to the left or right over the coral, where you will see the most fish.  To the left, towards the Backdoor Lagoon, you can often find turtles swimming and sometimes a monk seal.

The Koko Marina Shopping Center is located right before going up the hill to Hanauma Bay.  Here you can grab a bite to eat (I recommend Zippys, Yummys Korean BBQ, Kona Brewery), or buy snacks, sunscreen, etc at one of the stores.

I then head further North to the Halona Blow Hole.  It is easy to miss, so do not speed.  There is a small parking lot.  There is a great lookout point with a natural blow hole, where water often spouts high out of the rocks.  During whale watching months, you can often see whales in the distance from here.

About a quarter mile further is the infamous, Sandy Beach.  This is considered a local beach, due to the fact that there is a very strong shore break and current.  I have learned to no longer touch the waters of Sandy Beach as I've nearly drowned twice.  You can see bodyboarders here as well as catch a bite from the Wahoo's Truck parked in the parking lot.  I repeat, going in the water is not suggested, there are plenty of swimmer friendly beaches on the island.  No one wants to get hurt or die on vacation.

Makapu'u Point/Lookout is 2.2 miles further north from Sandys.  Tbis is a great view of the windward side with Makapuu Beach below and Rabbit Island ahead of you. This is a great photo op for you travelers.

If food is on the agenda, you will pass by Kenekes, who offers great plate lunches.  It looks like a real hole in the wall, but this is widely famous and popular place.

Next stop is Kailua Beach Park which is just 11.4 miles or 22 minutes away.  There is a parking lot here, as well as showers and a bathroom.  A mile or two south of Kailua Beach Park is the world famous Lanikai Beach.  It is often windy on this side of the island as you will notice by the abundance of kite surfers and windsurfers.  There are many places here the rent kayaks by the hour as well.  These are the world famous beaches that are often photographed for magazines and calendars. Lanikai has won many votes for not only best beaches in the nation, but of the world as well.  If parking in the residential area to get to Lanikai, be sure to read your street signs to avoid a parking ticket and be courteous to those who live there.

From here I like to head North on the Kamehameha Hwy.  You will pass by a few sites that you can stop by if you'd like.  I personally choose to pass on these sites, not because they are not interesting, but because of time constraints.  There is only so much time to see so many things.  If interested though you can consider stopping by:
The Valley of the Temples

or
Polynesian Culture Center.  I personally find the PCC to be a bit expensive and a bit boring.  No offense to those who enjoy it.  If you do go, keep in mind this may be an all day or half day event in itself.

Just a little past the culture center, you must stop by one of Kahuku's famous shrimp trucks.  The town of Kahuku is located about 33 beautifully, scenic miles north of Kailua. The most famous of the shrimp trucks is  Giovanni's.  Make sure to try the garlic scampi!

After grabbing a bite to eat, driving about 8 miles further up the Kam Hwy, you will come upon North Shore's famous Sunset Beach.  The North Shore beaches are famous for their surf contests.  That being said, the waves at these beaches are among some of the biggest in the world.  During winter months I would advise not going in the water unless you are a pro surfer or the like.

Just about 1.2 miles further north, you will come upon Sharks Cove on the right side.  They have a small little parking lot here.  Don't let the name scare you, there may be a few baby sharks, but it is a great swimming hole.  This is my favorite for tide pooling with kids or snorkeling myself.  My absolute favorite spot to snorkel.  At worst, I find Sharks Cove to be a great picture spot.

Upon leaving Sharks Cove, clear and set your trip odometer.  In precisely 3.2 miles you will arrive at the hidden Laniakea Beach aka Turtle Beach.  It is very easy to pass.  There will be a small open patch of dirt on the left side of the road. You can no longer legally park here. They do issue tickets. Across the street, behind the tree line is Laniakea Beach.  Here you will often find large sea turtles (honu) on the beach and/or in the water.  Keep in mind these are an endangered species and are federally protected.  If you harass or disturb them, you may end up being fined or arrested.

Just 2.5 miles further up the road, you will arrive at Waimea Falls on the left and Waimea Bay on the right.  There is a charge to walk up the the Waimea Waterfalls, I believe about $10 per person.  There are bathrooms and a snack shop here. There are often peacocks running around the grounds as well. This is also the home of a very beautiful botanical garden.

Waimea Bay is another beautiful beach.  The famous rock that kids (and young spirited adults) jump off of is also located here.  FYI, jumping off the rock is prohibited, that being said, most people jump off anyways. Beware jumping at low tide!

About 5 miles further up the road you will find Haleiwa Town.  Here you can grab a bite to eat, do a little shopping, or just relax.  You must stop by the famous, Matsumoto's Shave Ice.  Be sure to get a shave ice with ice cream and red beans.  If hungry, Haleiwa Joes and Uncle Bo's are both well know eateries. There is section of food trucks in Haleiwa with another location of Giovanni's Shrimp Truck.

By the time I reach Haleiwa, it is usually about sunset.  This is usually the end of my Circle Island Tour. All parties including myself are usually tired and spent at this point. It's time to head back into town.  If you so choose to, you will pass by the Dole Plantation a few miles south of Haleiwa.  This is the old Dole pineapple plantation.  They have a big maze, a small train, and some ono (delicious) dole whip, a frozen dessert. Be sure to get the dole whip with the fresh pineapples.

Here are directions back into town, the drive should only take about an hour: Turn right onto Waialua Beach Rd.  Then take the first exit, Kaukonahua Rd.  Next turn left onto Kaukonahua Rd.  Continue onto the 803.  Then continue onto HI-99.Continue onto the H-2 S then onto the  H-1 E.  If headed back to Waikiki, exit Punahou and follow the signs to Waikiki.