Double Take on Oahu’s South Shore: City Vibes & Beach Bliss

Including Honolulu & Waikīkī

The South Shore of Oahu, Hawaii, offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and recreational opportunities that appeal to visitors from around the world. Stretching from Honolulu, the bustling capital city of Hawaii, to the scenic landscapes of the southeastern coast, the South Shore is renowned for its iconic attractions and laid-back atmosphere. The South Shore also offers opportunities to immerse oneself in Hawaiian culture and history. Visitors can attend traditional Hawaiian luaus, explore ancient Hawaiian fishponds, and visit cultural centers to learn about the islands’ indigenous people and their rich heritage. Whether relaxing on the beaches of Waikiki, hiking to volcanic craters, exploring historical sites in Honolulu, or indulging in local cuisine, the South Shore offers something for every traveler seeking to experience the beauty and spirit of Hawaii.

The Same

We both agree South Shore is a great home base for Oahu. Waikiki’s vibrant shoreline is adorned with towering hotels against the backdrop of its renowned surf beach. Along Kalakaua Avenue fashion boutiques lure shoppers, while the evenings come alive with waterfront bars, upscale dining, and hula performances. Both The Dinks and The Family had fantastic experiences in Oahu, with a mix of beach relaxation, outdoor adventures, and cultural exploration. Let’s break down the activities enjoyed by both groups:

Some top activities that both The DINKs and The Family enjoyed include:

Hike Diamond Head

A prominent volcanic crater stands as an iconic natural landmark. Embarking on the hike to the summit rewards adventurers with panoramic vistas of the turquoise Pacific Ocean and the vibrant city of Honolulu. The hike to the summit of Diamond Head is relatively short but moderately challenging, with a steep ascent and uneven terrain. The trail is approximately 1.6 miles round trip and involves climbing a series of stairs and switchbacks, including a final ascent through a narrow tunnel and up a spiral staircase to reach the summit. Along the trail, hikers will encounter several historical landmarks and points of interest, including military bunkers, gun emplacements, and observation posts dating back to the early 20th century. These remnants of the crater’s military past offer insight into Diamond Head’s history as a strategic military lookout and defense site. If the amazing views aren’t enough, reward yourself with some Shave Ice when you get to the bottom. Surprisingly that is not a typo on my part. In Hawaii it is ‘Shave” not Shaved” ice.

Tips: Be sure to wear sturdy hiking shoes, bring plenty of water, and wear sunscreen and a hat to protect against the sun’s rays. The trail can be crowded, especially during peak times, so it’s best to arrive early to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful hiking experience. Additionally, be prepared for hot and humid conditions, especially during the summer months.

Waikiki Beach

Waikiki serves as the heart of the South Shore, famed for its golden sands, azure waters, and vibrant beachfront atmosphere. This world-renowned beach is lined with luxury resorts, shops, and restaurants, offering visitors a perfect blend of relaxation and entertainment.

Eat all the Hawaiian Food

Dining on the South Shore ranges from casual beachside eateries serving fresh seafood and Hawaiian plate lunches to upscale restaurants offering Pacific Rim cuisine. Visitors can savor local favorites like poke (raw fish salad), loco moco (rice, hamburger patty, egg, and gravy), and shave ice, a refreshing treat popular among locals and tourists alike. In addition to the Shave Ice, here are some of the other classics that you can find anywhere but why not try them at their best?

Poke from Ona Seafood: Poke is a must try Hawaiian dish featuring diced, marinated raw fish like tuna. It’s seasoned with a mix of soy sauce, sesame oil, and spices. Ona Seafood is a bit outside the downtown Waikiki but worth the Uber ride.
Malasadas from Leonard’s Bakery: A beloved Hawaiian treat, featuring deep-fried, sugar-coated balls of dough that are irresistibly fluffy on the inside. They come in a variety of flavors, including classic sugar, cinnamon, and even filled options like custard and chocolate, making them a must-try indulgence for anyone visiting Hawaii.
Loco Moco from Rainbow Drive-In: A hearty Hawaiian plate lunch classic. It typically consists of a generous portion of white rice topped with a hamburger patty, brown gravy, and a sunny-side-up egg. This satisfying and flavorful dish embodies the fusion of Hawaiian and American comfort food traditions and is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Souvenirs

Bringing home a piece of Hawaii is a cherished tradition for many visitors to the islands, offering a tangible reminder of their tropical getaway. Popular souvenirs from Hawaii encompass a wide range of items that reflect the islands’ culture, natural beauty, and unique flavors.

Visitors often opt for traditional Hawaiian apparel such as aloha shirts and dresses, adorned with vibrant floral patterns known as “muumuu” or “hula” designs.
For those seeking authentic Hawaiian taste, locally sourced items like Kona coffee, macadamia nuts, and tropical fruit preserves make delightful gifts.
Handcrafted items such as Hawaiian quilts, ukuleles, and koa wood carvings showcase the islands’ skilled artisans and rich cultural heritage.
Additionally, keepsakes like seashell jewelry, leis, and Hawaiian-themed ornaments provide lasting memories of the islands’ warm hospitality and breathtaking scenery.

Whether for oneself or loved ones, souvenirs from Hawaii capture the essence of aloha and the spirit of the islands, making them cherished mementos of a memorable Hawaiian experience. Be sure to check out an ABC store as they have a variety of stuff at reasonable prices. (They have them everywhere.) Though you wont find that unique hand crafted peice there.

The Dinks

We mixed up our beach days with some city activity and nights out.

Honolulu

As the capital of Hawaii, Honolulu blends modern city amenities with historical landmarks and cultural sites. Visitors can explore the historic district of downtown Honolulu, home to the iconic Iolani Palace, the Bishop Museum, and the vibrant Chinatown district known for its markets and eateries.

Pearl Harbor National Memorial

This solemn site houses the USS Arizona Memorial, which stands as a tribute to the lives lost during the attack. The area offers visitors a chance to pay their respects, learn about the events that transpired, and gain insight into the significance of this pivotal moment in history. Be sure participate in a guided tour, ranger-led programs, and documentary screenings that offer deeper insights into the history and significance of the site.

USS Arizona Memorial

The centerpiece of the memorial is the USS Arizona Memorial, built over the sunken remains of the USS Arizona battleship, which was destroyed during the attack on Pearl Harbor. Visitors can take a solemn boat ride to the memorial, which spans the sunken hull of the ship, and pay their respects to the 1,177 sailors and Marines who lost their lives aboard the USS Arizona.

Exhibits and Museums: The Pearl Harbor National Memorial includes several museums and exhibits that provide insight into the events of December 7, 1941, and the broader history of World War II. These include the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, which features interactive exhibits, artifacts, and multimedia presentations, as well as the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum and Park, which showcases a restored World War II-era submarine and related exhibits.
Battleship Missouri Memorial: Adjacent to the USS Arizona Memorial is the Battleship Missouri Memorial, which commemorates the end of World War II and the signing of the Japanese surrender aboard the USS Missouri battleship in Tokyo Bay on September 2, 1945. Visitors can explore the decks of the USS Missouri and learn about its role in the war, as well as the significance of the surrender ceremony that took place on its decks.
USS Oklahoma Memorial: The Pearl Harbor National Memorial also includes the USS Oklahoma Memorial, which honors the 429 sailors and Marines who lost their lives when the USS Oklahoma battleship was capsized during the attack on Pearl Harbor. The memorial consists of a series of white marble columns inscribed with the names of those who perished, providing a solemn and contemplative space for reflection and remembrance.

Luau

Germaine’s Luau Enjoyable traditional Hawaiian dance and fire show. Germaine’s Luau offers guests the opportunity to immerse themselves in authentic Hawaiian culture and traditions. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be greeted with a warm aloha welcome and invited to participate in various cultural activities and experiences throughout the evening.

The luau features a vibrant and dynamic showcase of Hawaiian music, dance, and entertainment. Guests can enjoy performances by talented hula dancers, musicians, and fire knife dancers, who dazzle the audience with their skill and artistry. The lively atmosphere and energetic performances create a memorable and festive experience for guests of all ages.
One of the highlights of Germaine’s Luau is the location set against the backdrop of a beautiful oceanfront location, providing stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding coastline. Guests can enjoy the natural beauty of Hawaii as they dine and celebrate under the stars, surrounded by swaying palm trees and the gentle sound of the waves.
Hawaiian feast served buffet-style. Guests can indulge in a mouthwatering array of traditional Hawaiian dishes, including kalua pig (roast pig cooked in an imu or underground oven), lomi lomi salmon, poi (taro paste), fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and more. The culinary offerings provide a taste of Hawaii’s diverse and flavorful cuisine, showcasing the island’s rich culinary heritage. The buffet was on par with what you would expect and located on the beach you got the nice ocean breeze that made for an overall enjoyable evening.

Hawaii Five-O Filming Locations

There are so many films and shows filmed in Oahu but the majority you’ll have to take a day trip outside of Waikiki to see. However, there are several Hawaii Five-O filming locations in Waikiki here are some of our favorites:

Iolani Palace: The iconic Iolani Palace, located in downtown Honolulu, has been featured in several episodes of “Hawaii Five-0.” This historic landmark served as the backdrop for numerous scenes, showcasing its grand architecture and significance in Hawaiian history.
Ala Moana Beach Park: Ala Moana Beach Park, one of Honolulu’s most popular beach destinations, has been featured in multiple episodes of the show. Its pristine sandy shores, turquoise waters, and stunning views of Diamond Head make it a picturesque filming location.
Waikiki Beach: Waikiki Beach is another prominent filming location for “Hawaii Five-0.” The world-famous beach and its vibrant atmosphere have been showcased in various episodes, providing a backdrop for action-packed scenes and dramatic moments.
Diamond Head: The iconic Diamond Head Crater and its surrounding landscapes have been featured in several episodes of the show. The majestic volcanic crater offers breathtaking views of Honolulu and the surrounding coastline, making it a popular filming location for outdoor scenes.
Chinatown: Honolulu’s historic Chinatown district has served as a backdrop for numerous scenes in “Hawaii Five-0.” Its bustling streets, colorful markets, and eclectic architecture provide a unique setting for the show’s urban scenes and criminal investigations.
Kualoa Ranch: Located on the windward side of Oahu, Kualoa Ranch is a scenic nature reserve and popular filming location for movies and television shows, including “Hawaii Five-0.” Its lush landscapes, verdant valleys, and dramatic cliffs have been featured in several episodes, providing a stunning backdrop for outdoor adventures and action sequences.
Hilton Hawaiian Village: The Hilton Hawaiian Village, a sprawling resort complex in Waikiki, has been featured in “Hawaii Five-0” as both a filming location and a setting for fictional events and storylines. Its luxurious accommodations, tropical gardens, and beachfront setting make it a memorable backdrop for the show’s characters and plotlines.

NightLife

Exploring the nightlife on Oahu’s South Shore, particularly in Waikiki and Honolulu, offers a vibrant mix of activities to suit diverse tastes. F

Karaoke at Wang Chung: or those seeking entertainment, karaoke at Wang Chung’s is a beloved tradition, where locals and visitors alike gather to sing their hearts out in a lively and welcoming atmosphere. While we did not sing ourselves, we had a blast listening to some extremely talented people as well as a few that well at least were having fun.
Breweries: For beer enthusiasts, Waikiki Brew Co and Maui Brewing Company provide excellent options to sample locally crafted brews. Waikiki Brew Co offers a relaxed setting with a variety of beers brewed on-site, perfect for enjoying a laid-back evening with friends. Maui Brewing Company, known for its commitment to sustainability and quality, showcases a range of beers inspired by the flavors of Hawaii, making it a must-visit for beer connoisseurs. We hit up Waikiki Brew Co and Maui Brewing Company. Both had great beer selections and fun experiences.

Whether you’re belting out tunes at Wang Chung’s or savoring a pint at one of the island’s breweries, Oahu’s nightlife promises memorable experiences that complement its daytime attractions and natural beauty.

The Family

Aulani Disney Resort

Aulani holds a special place in our hearts as the ultimate family resort. Nestled amidst the serene beauty of Hawaii, it offers everything we could wish for in a vacation with children. The resort boasts a tranquil beach complete with water and sand toys, perfect for endless hours of fun under the sun. The pool complex is a hit with its tube slide leading into a lazy river, providing thrilling adventures for all ages. Aulani’s standout feature is its exceptional kids club and a variety of engaging family activities, ensuring every moment is filled with laughter and unforgettable memories.

Beautiful Beach: Aulani boasts a beautiful, calm beach with soft sand and crystal-clear waters. The resort provides water and sand toys, making it easy for children to build sandcastles, splash in the waves, or simply soak up the Hawaiian sun.
Pool Complex: The pool complex at Aulani is a true highlight, featuring winding water slides, a lazy river, and multiple pools of varying depths. The centerpiece is the thrilling tube slide that propels riders into the lazy river—a favorite among kids and adults alike.
Kids Club and Activities: Aulani offers an exceptional kids club, where children can engage in supervised activities led by Disney-trained staff. From arts and crafts to Hawaiian storytelling and interactive games, there’s something to spark the imagination of every young guest. Meanwhile, family-friendly activities such as character meet-and-greets, movie nights under the stars, and Hawaiian cultural experiences ensure that the entire family can create cherished memories together.
Dining: The resort boasts a variety of dining options catering to all tastes, from casual poolside fare to upscale restaurants featuring authentic Hawaiian cuisine. Character dining experiences allow children to meet their favorite Disney characters while enjoying delicious meals.

When we did leave the resort stayed away from the hustle and bustle of the big city of Honolulu. There was plenty for us to do in and around Waikiki.

Snorkeling in Hanauma Bay

Hanauma Bay is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, making it one of the best snorkeling spots in Hawaii. The bay’s shallow reefs are teeming with colorful fish, sea turtles, and other marine creatures, providing snorkelers with an unforgettable underwater experience. The bay is nestled within a volcanic crater formed by the collapse of a volcanic cone, creating a picturesque crescent-shaped bay surrounded by steep cliffs. The pristine sandy beach and lush greenery surrounding the bay make it a scenic and idyllic destination for beachgoers and nature enthusiasts alike. With its sheltered cove and clear waters, Hanauma Bay offers an ideal environment for both beginners and experienced snorkelers to explore the coral reefs teeming with colorful fish and other fascinating aquatic creatures.

The Honolulu Zoo & Aquarium

There’s a small zoo and aquarium in Wakiki that are nice despite their size.

Honolulu Zoo: Located in the heart of Waikiki, the Honolulu Zoo is home to a diverse collection of animals from around the world, as well as native Hawaiian species. The zoo features exhibits showcasing animals such as elephants, lions, giraffes, monkeys, and reptiles, among others. Visitors can observe these animals up close and learn about their habitats, behaviors, and conservation status. The zoo’s lush landscaping and tropical gardens provide a scenic backdrop for leisurely strolls and picnics. Visitors can enjoy exploring the zoo’s pathways and discovering hidden gems amidst the beautiful natural surroundings. The Honolulu Zoo offers educational programs, guided tours, and interactive exhibits aimed at educating visitors about wildlife conservation, biodiversity, and the importance of protecting endangered species.
Waikiki Aquarium: Located along the scenic Waikiki coastline, the Waikiki Aquarium is dedicated to showcasing the marine life and ecosystems of Hawaii and the Pacific Islands. The aquarium features a diverse array of exhibits highlighting coral reefs, tide pools, and coastal habitats, as well as marine species such as reef fish, sharks, octopuses, and Hawaiian monk seals. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, touch pools, and educational displays that offer insights into marine biology, conservation efforts, and the importance of protecting Hawaii’s fragile coral reefs and ocean ecosystems. The Waikiki Aquarium offers daily feedings and presentations, allowing visitors to learn about marine animals’ behaviors and feeding habits firsthand. The aquarium’s oceanfront location provides stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and Diamond Head, making it a scenic and tranquil setting for exploring and learning about Hawaii’s marine environment.

Manoa Falls

This enchanting waterfall, nestled amidst lush tropical foliage, cascades down a rocky cliff into a tranquil pool below.

The journey to Manoa Falls begins with a scenic hike through the verdant rainforest of Manoa Valley. The trail is approximately 1.6 miles round trip and is relatively easy, making it suitable for hikers of all ages and skill levels. Along the way, visitors can enjoy the sights and sounds of the tropical jungle, including towering trees, fragrant flowers, and chirping birds.

The highlight of the hike is, of course, Manoa Falls itself. Standing at approximately 100 feet tall, the waterfall cascades down a sheer rock face into a tranquil pool below. Visitors can take in the awe-inspiring beauty of the waterfall and feel the refreshing mist on their skin as they admire this natural wonder. While swimming is not allowed in the pool beneath Manoa Falls due to safety concerns and the risk of flash flooding, visitors can still wade in the shallow waters and cool off after the hike. However, it’s important to exercise caution near the waterfall and heed any posted warnings or instructions from park rangers.

For more information on The Family’s Aulani stay check out https://affordablefamilytravel.com/50-things-to-do-at-disneys-aulani-resort-hawaii/

Summary

Exploring Oahu’s South Shore, including Waikiki and Honolulu, offers a vibrant blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and culinary delights for both families and couples alike. The iconic hike up Diamond Head provides stunning panoramic views, while indulging in Hawaiian cuisine remains a highlight, whether enjoying local favorites like poke or traditional plate lunches.

The Dinks immersed themselves in history at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, experienced the spirit of aloha at a luau, and ventured to Hawaii Five-O filming locations. Evenings were filled with lively karaoke at Wang Chung and sampling craft brews at local breweries.Meanwhile, the Family enjoyed the ultimate in family-friendly luxury at Aulani Disney Resort, where days were spent snorkeling amidst vibrant marine life in Hanauma Bay, exploring the rich biodiversity of the Honolulu Zoo and Aquarium, and trekking to the serene Manoa Falls.

Both experiences on Oahu’s South Shore showcase the diversity and allure of Hawaii, offering something memorable for every type of traveler, from historical landmarks and natural wonders to family fun and cultural immersion.

Doubletake Travel