You only have 48 hours in Honolulu. Whether you’re stopping on Oahu on your way to somewhere else, or just hopping over for a quick visit from another island, there’s much to see and do here. Sure, you can spend it relaxing on Waikiki Beach, but if you want to squeeze as much as possible in these two days, keep reading as we explore 48 hours in Honolulu.

The First 24 Hours

Indulge in a Beachfront Breakfast

Start off your morning with a hearty breakfast at Duke’s Waikiki. Located in the Outrigger Waikiki Resort, this legendary Waikiki restaurant boasts superb ocean views, stellar people-watching and a lively atmosphere. We recommend their extensive breakfast buffet, which includes numerous hot and cold breakfast items. Whether you start your day with a mug of Kona coffee or a pineapple mimosa, you can’t go wrong at Duke’s Waikiki.

If you are feeling a little more low-key, visit Hula Grill Waikiki, located directly upstairs from Duke’s. They have the same awesome ocean views – with a more chill vibe. Although Hula Grill does not offer a breakfast buffet, the standout breakfast menu more than makes up for it. Favorites are Banana Mac Pancakes, Portuguese Sausage Bao Bun Benedict and the Loco Moco.

Soak Up the Sun

Following breakfast, spend some time on Waikiki Beach. After all, it is one of the most iconic beaches in the world, so don’t miss your chance to see what all the fuss is about! Our favorite thing to do on Waikiki Beach is a catamaran sail. These one-hour sails depart throughout the day right from the sand. You will easily spot the various brightly-colored sails on the catamarans. First off, you’ll sail through all the swimmers and surfers, as the crew blow the conch shell to alert everyone to move out of the way. During this, the sails are lowered, and the motor is what powers the vessel. Once you’re in open water, the engine is cut, the sails go up, the music cranks up and the Mai Tais flow.

If you don’t want to be on the water, rent beach chairs and an umbrella on the sand and relax. Waikiki Beach is also perfect for swimming, and there’s good snorkeling near the Sheraton Waikiki. Additionally, you can try your hand at surfing, or an outrigger canoe.

After your beach time, consider walking down to Kapiolani Park. It’s an oasis of coconut palms, mimosa trees and green at the base of Diamond Head. Located within the park is the Honolulu Zoo and the Waikiki Aquarium.

If you prefer to skip the beach altogether, hike Diamond Head and you’ll get an aerial view of the Honolulu skyline, Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head Lighthouse and Ko’olau Mountains. There is very limited parking, so we highly recommend to book a Diamond Head hike through a tour company. You will still hike on your own, but they will pick you up at your hotel, and provide transportation to the base, admission, water and a hiking guide.

Treat Yourself to an Exciting Dinner

If you’re trying to make the most of your 48 hours in Honolulu, we suggest a Hawaiian Luau this evening. Specifically, the Diamond Head Luau experience! Located on the lawn of the Waikiki Aquarium, you can easily walk to this luau from most Waikiki hotels. The intimate space, mouth-watering food and authentic Polynesian show make this an evening to remember!

Afterwards, take a leisurely stroll down Kalakaua Avenue to round out your day. At night this boulevard comes alive. World-class shopping, street artists and performers, lively bars and restaurants make this a sight you don’t want to miss!

Round Out Your 48 Hours in Honolulu: The Last 24

Start Your Morning Off Right

For breakfast this morning, may we suggest the Barefoot Beach Cafe. Located along the ocean in Kapiolani Park, this casual, outdoor cafe’s ocean views cannot be beat. You’ll be able to grab a quick bite and hit the ground running.

Sightseeing in Paradise

Most visitors choose to immerse themselves in history at Pearl Harbor while they’re in Honolulu. For guaranteed access plus transportation, we highly suggest booking a tour.

Perhaps you have already visited Pearl Harbor, but still want culture and history. Journey to downtown Honolulu instead. Here you can explore the exotic delights of Chinatown, or tour the only royal palace on U.S. soil – Iolani Palace. Bishop Museum and the Honolulu Museum of Art are cherry too. Downtown Honolulu is easily accessible via TheBus or taxi.

Another option for this day is a guided circle island tour of Oahu. You’ll make your way up to Oahu’s famed North Shore, and enjoy an extended stop in the surfing town of Haleiwa. If you elect to rent a car during your stay, you can drive the island on your own. Check out this post for recommendations.

If you do have a rental car, take a drive up to Pu’u Ualaka’a State Wayside, otherwise known as Tantalus Lookout. Rising behind Waikiki, the lookout has magnificent views of Diamond Head, the Pacific Ocean and Honolulu. It’s especially magical at sunset!

Dinner with a View

For your final dinner in Honolulu, we have a few suggestions. Two wonderful restaurants, both offering amazing views are Hau Tree in Kapiolani Park and the Chart House at the Ala Wai Harbor. Both are classic Honolulu establishments that won’t disappoint your tastebuds and will dazzle you with the views.

Additionally, a sunset dinner cruise on the Star of Honolulu is a fabulous way to end your time on Oahu. Sailing along Waikiki’s legendary coastline, you’ll enjoy a delicious dinner and exciting show. Transportation is offered as well.

If you aren’t ready to call it a night after dinner, grab a Mai Tai at the Royal Hawaiian’s Mai Tai Bar, or a Hawaiian martini at Roy’s Waikiki.

Let us hand-craft your perfect Hawaiian experience, tailor-made to suit your needs.

We hope this helped you plan your 48 hours in Honolulu! As you can see, with a little planning, there’s a lot you can do in a short amount of time. If you can spare an additional 24 hours in Honolulu, we highly recommend you consider our affordable Waikiki Beach All-Inclusive Express Vacation Package. Many of the things listed in this article are already included in this package, and we use our 40+ years of Hawaii experience to assist you in making the most out of your time on Oahu. In addition, our interest-free payment plans and advance booking options make getting started super easy. Contact us today to find out more.