Rent a car only if you think you will need it
Is your plan to have the majority of your fun in Waikiki, there’s no need to rent a car from us. Simply stroll or call a ride-sharing service such as Uber or Lyft.
You can save money on Oahu by taking TheBus. If you’re going to climb Diamond Head or other activities. In addition, the Waikiki Trolley can deliver you to awesome tourist stops.
Have fun with freebies
On Friday nights Hilton Hawaiian Village in Waikiki produces a free fireworks show. The night sky lights up while synced with the resort’s Rockin’ Hawaiian Rainbow Revue . Locals and visitors line the beach to watch the colorful display above the Duke Kahanamoku Beach & Lagoon. Fireworks display times are seasonal: 8 p.m. May-August, 7:45 p.m. September-April.
Don’t miss the free history tours at the Moana Surfrider Hotel and the Royal Hawaiian Hotel (the infamous “Pink Palace”). We’ve taken both tours many times and always enjoy the amazing facts and history.
Information:
Hilton Hawaiian Village, 2005 Kalia Road, Honolulu; (808) 949-4321; Moana Surfrider, 2365 Kalakaua Ave., Honolulu; (808) 922-3111; Royal Hawaiian Hotel, 2259 Kalakaua Ave., Honolulu; (808) 923-7311
Make the trek up Diamond Head
Probably the most popular attraction on Oahu. You’ll be rewarded with awe-inspiring views of southern Oahu. You should go for the introductory narrated self-guided tour; it’s like having your own private park ranger accompany you.
Go north
We always rent a car for the day and head to the North Shore to see the big waves and major surfing competitions. Make sure you stop for a treat at Matsumoto’s Shave Ice.
Don’t miss the North Shore Soap Factory. This gem, in the old Waialua sugar mill, offers lush, made-in-Hawaii soaps, scrubs, skincare, candles and more, all affordably priced. I especially like the mango and the chocolate-mint soaps.
Information:
Matsumoto’s Shave Ice, 66-111 Kamehameha Highway, Haleiwa; (808) 637-4827;North Shore Soap Factory, 67-106 Kealohanui St., Waialua; (808) 637-8400; Cheap Oahu Car Rental; www.cheapoahucarrental.com