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A First Timer’s Guide to an O‘ahu Vacation
January 19 ,2023

“Aloha, Family” will be the first thing you hear when you step off the plane in O‘ahu. Without a doubt, you’ll hear this phrase countless times throughout your travels on the island known as “the gathering place”. It’s no surprise O‘ahu was given this nickname; once you visit, you’ll want to gather all your loved ones and bring them to this special and inviting corner of the earth and never leave. But, before you pack up and move your whole community to O‘ahu, it’s best you come for a visit to test the warm waters. Staying at Prince Waikiki, the ocean is your backyard and the city is waiting at your doorstep. Only a 15-minute drive from the airport, your vacation will start the moment you land in the Pacific. With the sights, sounds, and smells of Waikiki Beach and Honolulu swirling around you, the world is your oyster! Read on to see how you can make the most of your first time at Prince Waikiki and in O‘ahu.

Shop the City

 

An exterior shot of House of Manu Up in Prince Waikiki


Prince Waikiki brings convenience and authenticity straight to you! We’ve recently welcomed
 House of Mana Up, a store dedicated to highlighting a strong community of local Hawaiʻi products and companies into our space. Located in our lobby, you can find fashion, beauty, home goods, and more, all just steps from your room. Perhaps you want to get out and experience the city. With wide sidewalks, countless parks, lush landscaping, and glamorous shops, you can wave goodbye to our front desk attendant and hello to Ala Moana Shopping Center, the world’s largest open-air mall, just steps from Prince Waikiki.  Looking for a more Hawaiian experience for your shopping spree? During your journey, you’ll pass local artisans, public art, towering palm trees, and stunning ocean views. Honolulu blends cultural appreciation and modern-day life seamlessly, giving you the best of both worlds, old and new. Need a break? Try Tommy Bahama’s rooftop restaurant located in the heart of Waikiki, offering stellar views of the city. Here, you can try blackened mahi mahi tacos and craft cocktails as you plan your next stop on your shopping spree.

Hit the Road

 

Hanauma bay in Oahu island, Hawaii.


Prince Waikiki is located in the heart of the metropolitan core of our special island, but only minutes from the wild Hawaiian forests and beaches you’d expect. The sprawling wilderness can even be seen from our suites on the higher levels. With a rental car, you can easily drive around the island’s entire perimeter in a day and make several stops if you get an early start. Here are some of our must-dos, driving in a counter-clockwise direction, so you make it to Sunset Beach for the golden hour:

  • Diamond Head National Park, Hawaii’s most recognized landmark is known for its historic hiking trail, stunning coastal views, and military history.
  • Hanauma Bay, known for its high concentration of fish and snorkeling opportunities
  • Kualoa Ranch, stunning landscape, endless activities, and home to the Jurassic Adventure Tour.
  • Dole Plantation, learn about the history of the pineapple and agriculture in Hawaii while you explore the stunning plantation.
  • Sunset Beach, the name says it all! Enjoy watching surfers ride historic waves during the day and mesmerizing sunsets in the evening.

Eat the Island

 

Buffet fruit at 100 Sails in Prince Waikiki


You’ll find flavors for every palette, from the land and sea, at
Prince Waikiki. 100 Sails Restaurant & Bar is our signature award-winning restaurant that offers you front seats to unmatched sunset views and exquisite plates. We are proudly home to Katsumidori Sushi Tokyo, serving as its only location outside of Japan, and Hinana Bar puts your relaxation first by serving you a truly relaxing and fun experience on our pool deck.

 

 

Shaved Ice in Hawaii


If you get the urge to eat out, 
Da’ Hi Brew is located right across the street from us and has an amazing breakfast for dine-in or take-out. Looking for an exceptional, local dinner experience? A pioneer of the “Farm to Table” movement in Hawaii, Merriman’s brings the feel of a neighborhood bistro with hints of old Hawaii. On your adventure back from the North Shore, be sure you stop by everyone’s favorite burger and fries place, Seven Brothers, which was indeed started by seven brothers! Oh, and you can’t forget to grab a shave ice at every chance you get — a true Hawaiian treat that isn’t properly replicated anywhere else.

The Aloha Spirit

 

Friend sit near the water at Prince Waikiki


Family is king in O‘ahu. The ever-present Aloha spirit, the extension of mutual affection and respect to others with no expectation of it being returned, fills our air with love and warmth. On weekends, you will often find family barbeques lining the plentiful beaches as locals and visitors alike gather to soak up the sun and good energy. Kids and kids at heart will be taken care of on our Hawaiian island; there are no such thing as strangers here, just friends you haven’t met yet. We can’t wait to welcome you to your new favorite place on earth.

Time to visit

 

Prince Waikiki is your home base for your perfect Hawaiian vacation. O‘ahu is filled with delightful surprises, friendly neighbors, breathtaking sights, and perfect days that stretch into warm evenings full of life. Take advantage of our special offers or vacation packages to make your perfect trip all the better. 

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