Blanketed in all treasures of nature and all sorts of beauty, Honolulu is believed to accentuate one's wanderlust to an unbeatable level and to give birth to it in those who are nothing but a potato couch. This is the reason why people call its beauty a charismatic one. But, you will have to stipulate with us that it is almost impossible to catch such enormous amount of beauty and charm if you have taken a break for only two days. In effort of making something impossible possible, we have compiled a 48-Hour itinerary which comes in handy when you have to explore as much as possible within the time-frame of two days.
Image by Global Village English Centres via https://goo.gl/maps/n9sruvF7K2K2
Day 1 in Honolulu
8:00 am: Get rid of morning blues at Diamond HeadIf you are an early bird, kick start with an invigorating walk along the coastal path around the
Diamond Head nestled near the eastern edge of Waikiki’s coastline. It is famed for its hiking trail and astonishing coastal views, Join the flocks of bikers, hikers and joggers.
Address: Honolulu, Hawaii 96815, United States
Phone: 1 808.587.0300
Operation Hours: Opens daily (6:00 am-6:00 pm)
Website: www.dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/parks/oahu/diamond-head-state-monument 9:00 am: Feeling up for coffee?If you have done enough of hiking, then its time to fuel up on a cup of coffee at
Bogart's Cafe. The aroma of coffee wafting out of the cafe would freeze your feet and won't let you pass by without stopping by at least once. Don't forget to nibble on the breakfast served there. A wholesome breakfast could beat your morning blues and weariness and fill you with freshness.
Address: 3045 Monsarrat Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96815, United States
Phone: 1 808.739.0999
Operation Hours: Monday-Friday (6:00 am-6:30 pm); Saturday and Sunday (6:00 am-6:00 pm)
Website: www.bogartscafe.webs.comDistance and time from Diamond Head: 1.6 miles or 7 minutes drive
10:00 am: Meet animals and birds at Honolulu Zoo
After leaving the cafe, follow the EWA Beach via Arizona Memorial and take the Kapahulu Avenue to reach Honolulu Zoo. The Honolulu Zoo is nestled between the Diamond Head and Waikiki. The zoo sprawls across the 42 acres of land and home to 905 varied tropical animals. There are three tropical ecological zones in the zoo: the African Savanna, Pacific Islands, and Asian and American Tropical Forests. Marianas Fruit Dove, Cuban Amazon, Palawan peacock pheasant, Golden lion tamarin, Ruffed lemur, Black rhino, White-handed gibbon, Galapagos tortoise, Nile crocodile, and Giant South American River turtle are amongst some beautiful endangered species residing at the honolulu Zoo. You will be amazed to know that The Honolulu Zoo was the first zoo in the United States to breed Angulated tortoises in 1983 and Galapagos tortoises in 1954 and from 1967-71. Also, the zoo was the first in North America to breed Apapane in 1996. Currently, it is home to 44 species of reptiles, 10 species of Amphibians, 127 species of birds, and 39 species of mammals.
Address: 151 Kapahulu Avenue, Honolulu, Hawaii 96815, United States
Phone: 1 808.971.7171
Operation Hours: Opens daily (9:00 am-4:30 pm)
Website: www.honoluluzoo.org/default.htmDistance and time from Bogart's Cafe: 7 minutes drive
12:30 pm: Time to meet underwater creatures
After spending joyful hours with animals, leave for the Waikiki Aquarium which is positioned at Kalakaua Avenue if you really find fish adorable. It made its entry on March 19, 1904. It is popular as the second oldest public aquarium in the nation. It was formerly known as the Honolulu Aquarium. According to a world-famed biologist David Starr Jordan, this aquarium is believed to possess the finest collection of fishes around the globe. In 1904, Frederick A. Potter became the first Director of the Waikiki Aquarium. The sincere mission of this facility is to promote the conservation of Pacific marine life and rope in people to idealize this thought-provoking mission at every level of the society.
Address: 2777 Kalakaua Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96815, United States
Phone: 1 808.923.9741
Operation Hours: Opens daily (9:00 am-4:30 pm)
Website: www.waikikiaquarium.orgDistance and time from Honolulu Zoo: 6 minutes drive
2:00 pm: Hungry-one of the best feelings, isn't it?
Feeling Hungry? Fret not! You can visit
Hau Tree Lanai (2863 Kalakaua Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96815, United States) to nosh on some delectable Pacific Rim fare while enjoying the seaside views. If French delicacies pleases your taste bus the most, then move to
Michel's (2895 Kalakaua Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96815, United States). It is popular amongst locals for its flawless and aromatic French dishes at reasonable prices.
3:00 pm: An aerial tour over the city
If the scorching sun is really creating trouble for you, then you can opt to stop walking and hop on the buses of Waikiki Trolley. It is one of the established and most reliable bus tour agencies in the city promising the relaxed and scenic tour of the city and its colors. No matter how harsh the sun is outside, you will feel amused by roaming around in comfortable, affordable and open-air buses of Waikiki Trolley. Be ready to explore the stunning panoramic views of the city in a completely unique way.
Address: 2201 Kalakaua Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96815, United States
Phone: 1 808.728.6488
Operation Hours: Opens daily (9:00 am-9:00 pm)
Website: www.waikikitrolley.com6:00 pm: Stop to shopLooking for your favorite Honolulu stuff? Then, head to Ala Moana Boulevard and stop by
Ala Moana Center. Ala Moana Center is revered as the largest outdoor shopping destination all around the world. Hawaiians find this place the ideal choice to gratify a wide spectrum of shoppers, entertainment seekers, and diners. It is dotted with 290 stores ranging from local stores to the stores of A-list designers and with nearly 70 spots for diners.
Address: 1450 Ala Moana Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 96814, United States
Phone: 1 808.955.9517
Operation Hours: Monday-Saturday (9:30 am-9:00 pm); Sunday (10:00 am-7:00 pm)
Website: www.alamoanacenter.com Distance and time from Waikiki Trolley: 1.6 miles or 8 minutes drive
8:00 pm: Grab that pleases your taste buds the mostLooking for some mouth-drooling food? Visit
Shokudo (1585 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 96814, United States) and you will be rewarded with some hard-to-resist Japanese dishes that will make your trip worthwhile. To make your trip to the city fruitful, try Hawaiian eats at least once. Hawaiian dishes are believed to possess a heavenly taste. And, to taste nothing less than the best, you must drop in
The Pineapple Room (1450 Ala Moana Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 96813, United States). Hawaiians put a great belief in this restaurant and its quality dishes. This restaurant has been awarded with so many accolades, for instance, "2016 Best Business Lunch, Silver Award", "2015 Best Business Lunch, Silver Award", "2014 Best Business Lunch, Silver Award", "2014 Best Lunch, Gold Award", and "2008 Best Island Contemporary".
9:00 pm: Dance, dance & dance at Addiction
Honolulu is the city of post-dusk fun lovers. To join the group of such ready-to-party people, you owe a visit to Addiction. To get the party going non-stop, Addiction brings the most endearing and popular DJs who have earned the love worldwide. Addiction is one of those after-dark places where it is common to encounter with popular faces and celebrities. Almost 40,000 lights lay flashes on your faces and entice you to come to the dance floor and shake your booty. The club also takes good care of your thirst after a weary dance session with its wide selection of drinks. You can also plan a private party or event for a memorable late-night time at Addiction.
Address: 1775 Ala Moana Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 96815, United States
Phone: 1 808.943.5800
Operation Hours: Thursday-Saturday (10:30 pm-3:00 am); remains closed from Sunday to Wednesday
10:30 pm: A last drink before you sleep
Looking for your drink after dancing for hours? Stop by Harbor Pub which has been late-night thirst for over 32 years. You will be amazed to see that its staff members escort you to the table you choose. Immerse into the cozy rustic marina decor which is complimented with wood plank ceilings and floors. You can couple your drink with its after-dark snacks, like, sandwiches, salads, and pizzas.
Address: 1765 Ala Moana Boulevard #1, Honolulu, HI 96815, United States
Phone: 1 808.941.0985
Operation Hours: Opens daily (7:00 am-2:00 am)
Website: www.harborpubhawaii.comDistance and time from Addiction: 220 ft. or 1 minute drive
A Map Guide on Day 1 Tour in Honolulu
Day 2 in Honolulu
8:30 am: Have your had your morning coffee?If its hard to leave your bed too early to start your second day's journey, then at least try to take your lazy feet to
Hard Rock Cafe Honolulu which is the apt place to fill you up with the ample amount of energy. A cup of coffee at Hard Rock Cafe is believed to carry a high amount of energy in the form of a vital ingredient. Hence, no other place can wake you up so perfectly after a tiring day in the city.
Address: 280 Beach Walk, Honolulu, Hawaii 96815, United States
Phone: 1 808.955.7383
Operation Hours: Sunday-Thursday (7:00 am-12:00 am); Friday and Saturday (7:00 am-1:00 am)
Website: www.hardrock.com/cafes/honolulu9:30 am: Underwater-its only you, dolphins and turtlesHow about start your journey with a group of Spinner Dolphins or invite the Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle to accompany you while swimming? Sounds really exciting, doesn't it? Well,
Dolphins and You have brought a splendid opportunity for you all to plunge into oceans and swim with and around a group of dolphins, tropical fish, and Honu Turtles. Your tour guides also take photographs of your underwater activities. Dolphins and You is not only about hanging out with underwater creatures but does it also give you a chance to try your hand on kayaking or to board their stand-up paddle boards. To keep your water fun going, they provide you with scrumptious Hawaiian cheeseburgers and purple Hawaiian Taro buns.
Address: 307 Lewers Street #401, Honolulu, Hawaii 96815, United States
Phone: 1 808.696.4414
Operation Hours: Opens daily (7:30 am-8:00 pm)
Website: www.dolphinsandyou.comDistance and time from Hard Rock Cafe Honolulu: 0.2 miles or 4 minutes drive
11:30 am: Pay a visit to iconic Statue "Duke Kahanamoku"
After water adventure, leave for Statue "Duke Kahanamoku" nestled at Kuhio Beach Park. This magnificent statue is 9 feet high and made up of bronze. This larger-than-life statue is a tribute to Duke Paoa Kahanamoku who was a famous and beloved Hawaii's athlete appeared for the Olympics four times, and is also famed as the "Father of Modern Surfing". Duke Paoa Kahanamoku also won the hearts of the millions out there by saving the lives of eight people from a capsized boat. In addition to that, he was also popular as a movie actor. From 1934 to 1960, he also served as the Sheriff of Honolulu.
Address: Kalakaua Avenue, Honolulu, Hawaii 96815, United States
Website: www.publicartinpublicplaces.info/duke-paoa-kahanamoku-1990-by-jan-gordon-fisherDistance and time from Dolphins and You: 0.5 miles or 9 minutes drive
12:30 pm: Immerse into Honolulu's royalty
After meeting the real hero of Hawaii, leave to visit Iolani Palace. You will be amazed to know that it is the only royal palace in the United States, and Honolulu became the lucky one to have it. Iolani Palace belonged to the rulers of the Kingdom of Hawaii, and Kamehameha III became its first ruler under the Kamehameha Dynasty. Queen Liliʻuokalani was its last ruler under the Kalākaua Dynasty. This National Historic Landmark was built in 1882. Delve into Hawaii’s royal heritage and take the joy of living restorations. Kauikeaouli, Kinau, Hakaleleponi, and Likelike are the four principal gates of this majestic creation. The Coronation Pavilion is considered the centerpiece of this palace and used by The Royal Hawaiian Band to perform its concerts. You can also take a visit to Iolani Barracks which were beautifully designed by noted architect Theodore Heuck and currently it features a Palace Shop, video theatre, and a ticket office.
Address: 364 South King Street, Honolulu, HI 96813, United States
Phone: 1 808.522.0822
Operation Hours: Monday-Saturday (9:00 am-4:00 pm); remains closed on Sundays
Website: www.iolanipalace.orgDistance and time from Statue "Duke Kahanamoku": 4.3 miles or 19 minutes drive
2:00 pm: Fill up your belly with delicious lunch
Bite into local-style food at
Hukilau Honolulu (1088 Bishop Street, Honolulu, HI 96813, United States) while enjoying live Hawaiian music with a glass of tropical cocktail. Grab a bite to New-York style-made pizza at while sipping the freshly made crafted beer at
J.J. Dolans (1147 Bethel Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96813, United States). Or enjoy the mouth-watering Chinese food at
Jun Bo Chinese Restaurant (126 Queen Street #110, Honolulu, Hawaii 96813, United States).
3:00 pm: Restore your serenity at Foster Botanical Garden
After a great Hawaiian lunch, make your move to Foster Botanical Garden which is nestled at the intersection of Nu'uanu Avenue and Vineyard Boulevard. It spreads across the 13.5 acres of land. Detach your cords from the chaos of the city and spend revitalizing hours amidst the lush greenery at the Foster Botanical Garden. It is famed as the oldest botanical garden in Honolulu. Foster Garden displays a splendid collection of tropical species of plants and tress. Some of the magnificent highlights of the garden are: Palm Garden, The Conservatory, Outdoor Butterfly Garden, Exceptional Trees, Prehistoric Glen Cycad Collection, and a gift shop.
Address: 180 North Vineyard Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 96817, United States
Phone: 1 808.522.7060
Operation Hours: Opens Daily (9:00 am-4:00 pm)
Website: www.honolulu.gov/cms-dpr-menu/site-dpr-sitearticles/568-foster-botanical-garden.html4:30 pm: Roam around with Discover Hawaii Tours
To cope up with the heat outside, get on the buses of Discover Hawaii Tours and discover the true Honolulu beauty. It is a great way to relax and gaze at the glory of Honolulu's notable locations. It also takes you to the top shopping, entertainment and dining venues to engage you in various activities. You don't need to hit your pocket hard. These bus tours are the economical one.
Address: 955 Waimanu Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96814, United States
Phone: 1 808.690.9050
Operation Hours: Opens daily (6:00 am-7:30 pm)
Website: www.discoverhawaiitours.comDistance and time from Foster Botanical Garden: 2.5 miles or 9 minutes drive
7:00 pm: Shop for gifts and groceryLooking for some precious gifts for your loved ones? You can make your move to
Ward Centers to buy some valuable stuff from the collection of high-end designers. This shopping mall is also marked with a movie theatre, dining and other entertainment options to kill your boredom and make your time excited and fun-filled.
Address: 1200 Ala Moana Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 96814, United States
Phone: 1 808.591.8411
Operation Hours: Monday-Saturday (10:00 am-9:00 pm); Sunday (10:00 am-6:00 pm)
Website: www.wardvillageshops.com
Distance and time from Discover Hawaii Tours: 0.5 miles or 10 minutes drive
8:30 pm: Stop to dine
Stop by
Buca di Beppo - Honolulu (1030 Auahi Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96814, United States) to satisfy you night hunger pangs. Its menu is flecked with a lot of delectable Italian dishes at reasonable prices. Or, you can drop by
Phuket Thai Restaurant (401 Kamakee Street #102, Honolulu, HI 96814, United States) to please your taste buds with luscious Thai food.
9:30 pm: Ginza Nightclub-beer lovers call it their home
Its time to revamp your energy and make your night-time full of thrill. Stop by Ginza Nightclub which is considered as the finest late-night spot in the city. To take good care of drink lovers, it features three stocked bars serving freshly made and chilled beers.
Address: 1230 Kona Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96814, United States
Phone: 1 808.593.7760
Operation Hours: Thursday (8:00 pm-2:00 am); Friday and Saturday (11:55 pm-4:00 am); remains closed from Sunday-Wednesday
Website: www.ginzanightclub.com/#intro-shift11:00 pm: Bid a final dance to the city
Shake your leg for the last time before you bid a good bye to the city. Swing by Nextdoor, settled in the heart of Chinatown, which appeals the art and music lovers the most. Its terrific jazz shows, hip hop performances, and electronic dance music can freeze you for hours and sway your mind. Its state-of-the-art sound system is the right fit for the aural treat. People get goose bumps when they delve into such audio experiences at Nextdoor. If people call you a crazy concert lover, then Nextdoor is the right place for you to satiate the concert-goer residing inside you.
Address: 43 North Hotel Street, Honolulu, HI 96817, United States
Phone: 1 808.200.4470
Operation Hours: Wednesday-Friday (5:00 pm-2:00 am); Saturday (9:00 pm-2:00 am); remains closed from Sunday to Tuesday
Distance and time from Ginza Nightclub: 1.9 miles or 9 minutes drive
A Map Guide on Day 2 Tour in Honolulu