Eastern Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Eastern Hawaii? This guide covers the best attractions, activities, accommodations, and more for a memorable vacation.


Introduction to Eastern Hawaii

Eastern Hawaii, located on the island of Oahu, is a beautiful and culturally rich region that offers a range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Home to the state’s capital city of Honolulu and the famous Waikiki Beach, Eastern Hawaii is filled with museums, historical sites, and natural wonders. In this guide, we will explore the best things to do, see, and experience in Eastern Hawaii, as well as provide useful tips for planning your trip.

List of Places to Visit in Eastern

To help you plan your itinerary, here are some of the top attractions worth visiting in Eastern Hawaii:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Bishop Museum
  • Iolani Palace
  • National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific
  • Pearl Harbor National Memorial

Natural Attractions of Eastern: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Diamond Head State Monument
  • Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
  • Manoa Falls Trail
  • Nuuanu Pali Lookout

Hiking/Biking Routes of Eastern

If you love outdoor adventures and exploring nature on foot or bike, Eastern Hawaii has plenty of options to offer. Some of the most popular trails include:

  • Diamond Head Trail
  • Kaena Point Trail
  • Koko Crater Trail
  • Lanikai Pillbox Hike

Best Things to Do in Eastern: Activities and Tours

From water sports to cultural experiences, Eastern Hawaii is bursting with activities to suit every interest. Some of the most popular things to do in the region include:

  • Snorkeling or scuba diving at Hanauma Bay
  • Surfing lessons at Waikiki Beach
  • Attending a traditional Hawaiian luau
  • Taking a walking tour of historic downtown Honolulu

Week-Long Itinerary for Eastern

Here is a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to Eastern Hawaii:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Bishop Museum and Iolani Palace in Honolulu
Day 2 Spend the day at Waikiki Beach and attend a luau at night
Day 3 Hike the Lanikai Pillbox Trail and relax on Kailua Beach
Day 4 Take a snorkeling or scuba diving trip to Hanauma Bay
Day 5 Visit Pearl Harbor and the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific
Day 6 Explore the area’s natural wonders, such as the Nuuanu Pali Lookout and Manoa Falls Trail
Day 7 Shop for souvenirs and enjoy some of the region’s delicious cuisine before departing

Food and Drink Scene of Eastern

Eastern Hawaii offers a variety of dining options, from food trucks to high-end restaurants. Here are a few must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Poke bowls
  • Spam musubi
  • Plate lunches (typically consisting of rice, macaroni salad, and a protein such as teriyaki chicken or kalua pork)
  • Shave ice

Local Beverages

  • Mai Tais
  • Kona coffee
  • Pineapple juice

Where to Stay in Eastern: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Whether you’re looking for luxury accommodations or budget-friendly options, Eastern Hawaii has plenty of choices to suit your needs. Some of the top places to stay include:

  • The Royal Hawaiian (luxury resort on Waikiki Beach)
  • The Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club (boutique hotel in Honolulu)
  • Waikiki Beachside Hostel (affordable option for backpackers)
  • Hawaiian Monarch Hotel (mid-range hotel near Ala Moana Center)

What to Buy in Eastern: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Some of the best souvenirs to bring home from Eastern Hawaii include:

  • Hawaiian shirts and dresses
  • Macadamia nuts and chocolate-covered macadamia nuts
  • Pineapple-themed items (such as keychains or magnets)
  • Handmade leis

Local Culture and Customs of Eastern

Hawaiian culture is deeply rooted in the land, language, and traditions of the islands. Visitors to Eastern Hawaii should take the time to learn about the local culture and customs, including:

  • The importance of aloha (love, respect, and compassion)
  • The significance of hula as a storytelling art
  • The tradition of lei-giving as a symbol of welcome and appreciation
  • The history of Hawaiian monarchy and sovereignty

Best Time to Visit Eastern

Eastern Hawaii is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences. The busiest time of year is typically from December to February, when crowds flock to the islands for warm weather and holiday festivities. For a quieter and more affordable trip, consider visiting during the shoulder season (April to May or September to November).

Do’s and Don’ts of Eastern

As a visitor to Eastern Hawaii, it’s important to be respectful of local customs and etiquette. Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Learn a few words of Hawaiian (such as aloha and mahalo)
  • Respect sacred places and cultural sites
  • Remove your shoes before entering someone’s home
  • Try local cuisine and support small businesses

Don’t:

  • Wear your shoes inside someone’s home
  • Touch sea turtles or other wildlife
  • Turn your back to the ocean (a sign of disrespect in Hawaiian culture)
  • Leave trash on the beach or in natural areas

Safety and Health

Before embarking on your trip to Eastern Hawaii, it’s important to be aware of potential safety and health concerns.

Safety in Eastern

Eastern Hawaii is a relatively safe destination, but visitors should still exercise caution and take common-sense precautions, such as:

  • Avoiding unlit areas at night
  • Keeping valuables secured and out of sight
  • Following posted warning signs at beaches and hiking trails
  • Being respectful of local customs and etiquette

Health in Eastern

While there are no major health risks in Eastern Hawaii, visitors should be aware of the following:

  • Sunburn: Be sure to wear sunscreen and seek shade during the hottest parts of the day
  • Dehydration: Drink plenty of water, especially when engaging in outdoor activities
  • Coral cuts: Be cautious when swimming or snorkeling near coral reefs

Getting to Eastern: Transportation Options and Logistics

Eastern Hawaii is easily accessible by plane, with several major airlines flying into Honolulu International Airport. Visitors can also take a shuttle or taxi from the airport to their accommodations. Other transportation options include:

Airports Near Eastern

  • Honolulu International Airport

Bus Stations Near Eastern

  • Honolulu Bus Station

Other Options

  • Rental cars
  • Taxis
  • Ride-sharing services

How to Get Around in Eastern

While renting a car is the most convenient way to get around Eastern Hawaii, there are other transportation options available, such as:

  • Public buses
  • Taxis
  • Ride-sharing services
  • Bicycles and electric scooters

Where to Go Next from Eastern: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have additional time to explore Hawaii, consider visiting these nearby destinations:

  • North Shore Oahu
  • Maui
  • Kauai
  • The Big Island

Conclusion

Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Hawaii or a seasoned traveler, Eastern Hawaii has something to offer everyone. From historic landmarks and cultural sites to natural wonders and outdoor adventures, the region is full of exciting things to see and do. With this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to plan a memorable and unforgettable trip to this beautiful corner of the world.

Hiking to the top of Diamond Head Hiking to the top of Diamond Head Snorkeling in Hanauma Bay Snorkeling in Hanauma Bay Makapuʻu Beach Makapuʻu Beach