Top Nature in Honolulu

If you spot any locals with surfboards, don’t be shy! My advice is to ask them for tips or suggestions; they might know some hidden spots that aren’t in the guidebooks.

I suggest checking the tides before you go. When I visited, the beach was almost underwater during high tide, so plan those beach activities accordingly.

I think shoes are a must if you wanna explore the area. The sand gets super hot mid-day, and trust me, you don’t want to be hopping around like a hot potato.

Get there by 8:00 AM if you want a good spot! It's a lot less crowded early, and you’ll have the best views plus the morning sun without burning your skin.

If you have a few extra bucks, consider taking an Uber instead of parking. The parking fee adds up, and it can be hard to find a spot.

try to visit on a weekday if you can. the weekends are super busy, and you’ll be stuck in lines longer than you want.

grab a beach chair and umbrella from the rental spots nearby—they're affordable and make your beach day way more comfortable. i didn't do this the first time and regretted baking in the sun!

If you're looking to eat, check out local food trucks around the beach. I found some great poke bowls that were way cheaper than the restaurants nearby and super tasty!

If you want to catch a great sunset, head to the beach by 5:30 PM. Bring a picnic; it’s the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring!

My advice is to grab a spot for sunset at least an hour before. It gets super packed, and the views are absolutely stunning, so plan to get there early!

I recommend bringing your own snacks and drinks. The food options in the area can be pricey, and there's plenty of space to picnic in the park.

If you want unique photos, hit the park during golden hour – just before sunset. The light is magical, and you can avoid those harsh midday shadows.

If you’re planning to eat out, try hitting up local food trucks instead of sit-down restaurants. You can feast on amazing poke bowls and loco moco without breaking the bank. I loved my meal from a truck and saved a ton!

If you can, look for discount tickets online or on combo tours. I saved a few bucks that way, and it made my wallet a little happier!

Bring some water and sunscreen, especially if you're planning to hike. It can get pretty hot, and you don’t want to be caught unprepared!

Parking is free but fills up fast, especially on weekends. If you're visiting on a Saturday, try to arrive by 9 AM to snag a spot.