Honolulu

Honolulu, on the island of Oahu’s south shore, is capital of Hawaii and gateway to the U.S. island chain. The Waikiki neighborhood is its center for dining, nightlife and shopping, famed for its iconic crescent beach backed by palms and high-rise hotels, with volcanic Diamond Head crater looming in the distance. Sites relating to the World War II attack on Pearl Harbor include the USS Arizona Memorial.
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Top places to visit

4.6
(5698)
4.6
(8534)
Mentioned on 
Historical landmark
Museums
Iolani Palace, located in Honolulu, is a historic 19th-century royal residence that once housed Hawaii's last monarchs. It has been restored and transformed into a museum offering tours and exhibits for visitors to explore the rich history of the Hawaiian monarchy. The palace was home to Queen Liliuokalani and King Kalakaua from 1882 to 1893 until the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy.
Iolani Palace is a beautiful and special place to visit in Honolulu. It’s full of history and has a peaceful atmosphere. I didn’t know much about Hawaiian royalty before, but the tour taught me a lot. It’s the only royal palace in the United States, which makes it quite unique. The building is stunning, both outside and inside. The rooms are well kept, and you can see where the kings and queens of Hawaii once lived. Everything is very elegant. From the wooden staircase to the royal dining room. You can really feel the history when you walk through the palace. I took the audio tour, which was very helpful and easy to follow. It made the experience more meaningful and helped me understand Hawaiian culture better. The staff were also friendly and helpful. They gave clear directions and made sure everything ran smoothly.
Jakarin H — Google review
Nice to learn about the history of Hawaii and loyal family. This palace was not an actual palace that king lived in it was just one of the places he stayed when he had a guess. Sadly, the basement was closed for maintenance, so I only went two floors of the palace. No taking video inside only noncommercial camera without flash. They have self-audio tour so you can choose which room you want to go, and most people just follow the room number. Overall is not bad and kids will like it but I just feel it is kind of small compared to the ticket price.
Melissa N — Google review
Great cultural experience of the history of Hawaii from King Kamehameha on. The palace is extremely impressive with the portraits and technology that was ahead of its time. This is a definite must see to truly understand and embrace the true Hawaii!
Eric S — Google review
This is a must-visit location for anyone interested in learning more about the past. Every corner is rich with historical significance, and the exhibits are thoughtfully curated to offer both educational value and engaging stories. Whether you’re a history buff or just curious, there’s so much to take in and appreciate. The staff is knowledgeable, and the atmosphere really brings the stories to life. Highly recommended for families, students, or anyone looking to connect with history in a meaningful way.
Kendrick — Google review
An icon of Hawaiian history and heritage. The guided audio tour was very well organized without being overwhelming. The information presented in the audio narration was concise without missing important details - there were many excerpts included from letters and diaries of the Hawaiian royals and their associates which added great atmosphere to the overall experience. The palace itself is beautiful and very well maintained. There are many spots on the palace lawns to sit and relax and take in the surroundings. There's also a massive Banyan tree behind the palace, not sure how old, but nonetheless magnificent to behold. Highly recommend visiting the Iolani Palace if you can.
Arunabha M — Google review
If you're a history nerd and hate the whitewashing of Hawaiian history, definitely visit the Iolani Palace. We did the audio tour which I made me wish we did the docent tour just so I could ask questions. The palace is stunning, and they did an amazing job restoring it and continuing to maintain it. They do provide wheelchairs which my partner and I needed due to different foot injuries, but it's very difficult to navigate as the door frames are very small and some rooms you'll need to go a different route to enter.
Comfy P — Google review
I enjoyed this visit. It was pretty well kept and the audio guides were very helpful. We could also bring our baby in a stroller with no issues - there is an elevator inside. The workers were also very friendly and help us navigate the building. Mahalo!
Austin — Google review
Well worth a visit. Beautifully restored back to the times of the last kings and Queens. Good audio tour, that takes you through the various rooms at a reasonable pace (you can choose to spend more or less time in each room as you wish, you have a tour start time, but there is no end time).
Mick O — Google review
4.4
(2457)
4.4
(17264)
Mentioned on 
Bay
Nature & Parks
Hanauma Bay is a popular nature preserve and marine life conservation district on Oahu. It offers a beautiful beach, opportunities to see green sea turtles and parrotfish, and excellent snorkeling. To avoid crowds and enjoy clear waters, consider arriving before 7am when entry may be free. The bay was previously harmed by human development but has been restored under new conservation procedures.
Beautiful beach with plenty of reef. Got snorkeling gear and was able to see so many varieties of fish even on a very windy day. Felt like we had a better snorkeling experience on left side of the beach. There’s a store where you can rent all the snorkeling equipment you need. Reservations highly recommended.
Akash Y — Google review
Beautiful nature preservation on Oahu. Amazing location for snorkeling! Extremely busy so you have book your registration spots online 2 days in advance or visit in person before 7am the day of just to have a chance at getting in! The earlier you get in, the longer you can stay as they close at 3pm. A must visit if you can get in!
Philip C — Google review
This was my first time snorkeling! Perfect place for it! You can rent or bring your own. There is so much to see undewater! The fish are unbelievable and not at all scared of you, but you have to be careful of where you step. Also, if you're coming to Hawaii for a short time & want yo bisit Maunalua Bay, make sure you visit the website at least 48 hours prior to book a reservation because it goes fast!! However it's absolutely worth seeing and the beach is gorgeous!!
Marta S — Google review
Pay USD25 for tickets to get in. We went with a 'tour' for around USD50 per pax, which included hotel pickup and snorkeling equipment included, and I also added USD10 for a life vest. We arrived the earliest at 6.45 am when the park opens, but the waters were sadly too cold and we decided to enjoy by relaxing on the beach instead. The tour ends at 11:00 More visitors came at around 10:30 when the sun was stronger and a little bit more pleasant. Recommend to come on your own (totally doable) and especially if your hotel already provides snorkelling gear and beach hotels etc for free (as ours did), so you can pick the best time and leave as you wish.
WM — Google review
Good and safe place for snorkeling. Reservations are in place, book early and on time. There is parking fee as well. Saw beautiful fishes but not much as in Shark’s cove. There is a shop to rent out snorkel gears, price ranges from 10-20$. The depth increases as you go away from the beach so it is not random.
Shashank P — Google review
The view was breathtaking. Disappointed by the amount of fish we see while snorkeling, the best place to snorkel is in Sharks Cove. You have to book to get in at 7am 2 days ahead, parking is a bit of a nightmare. The clear water makes up for it. We went in the afternoon just hours before the beach closes and it was very crowded. We managed to take a few pictures of the water without people in it and it’s just heaven on earth.
Portia K — Google review
Bought tickets to snorkel here and had a blast. They brief you on what you can and can't do before you head down so just follow the rules. You can rent gear and equipment if you want. I would highly suggest getting snorkeling gear there is so much to see in the coral reef.
Michael — Google review
We booked an early spot which I recommend as you can get parking and it’s not too hot - there is limited shade at the beach This was a great snorkeling experience - we were in the water over an hour and were able to rinse off with the showers before leaving Could have better snack options - perhaps close to the beach
Sam C — Google review
Honolulu, HI 96825, USATips and more reviews for Hanauma Bay

3Waikiki

4.2
(18928)
Mentioned on 
Outdoor Activities
Beaches
Waikiki is a vibrant neighborhood in Honolulu, known for its popular surf beach and high-rise hotels along the shore. The area offers designer fashion stores, waterside cocktail bars, fine dining, and hula shows at Kuhio Beach. Visitors can also explore the Honolulu Zoo with its Komodo dragons and Waikiki Aquarium's reef exhibit. Oahu, where Waikiki is located, boasts volcanic craters along the coastline and magnificent beaches.
Honolulu, HI 96815, USATips and more reviews for Waikiki
4.6
(1824)
4.6
(1316)
Mentioned on 
Art museum
Museums
The Honolulu Museum of Art (HoMA) is home to an extensive collection of over 50,000 works, housed in a remarkable building featuring a gift shop and cafe. The museum recently hosted the Garden Club of Honolulu Oceans: Beyond the Reef show and the annual Conservation Study Conference, which focused on protecting Island Earth through a bio-cultural approach that combines ancient Hawaiian practices with modern science.
It's a wonderful museum to visit! Their collection is impressive and pretty diverse compared to other museums I've been to. A great place to spend the day and enjoy the visuals. The staff is very friendly, and the cafe in the courtyard is a great place to get some work done.
Eshtar O — Google review
As a student of University of Hawaii at Manoa, we got free access. Very beautiful, mind blowing collection and mesmerizing environment. You will find antique pieces of oil paintings…
MD S — Google review
Although this museum may not be as large as some others, it offers a thoughtfully curated experience that is both rich and rewarding. The combination of modern and contemporary art exhibitions allows visitors to gain meaningful insights, especially for those with a genuine interest in the arts. Every corner invites you to slow down and truly appreciate the beauty and depth of the works on display. And don’t miss the café — it’s a hidden gem! Whether you're looking to relax after the exhibition or simply enjoy a peaceful moment, the cozy atmosphere and well-crafted drinks make it well worth the visit. Highly recommended for anyone seeking inspiration and a fresh perspective.
Jay S — Google review
I am not necessarily a fan of arts but i have to say this museum was really cool to see. You can enter it for free if you are staying in selected honolulu hotels. Staff at the place is super friendly! No lines.
M Z — Google review
It doesn’t have as many pieces of Hawaiian art (more photos) compared with pieces from other parts of the world. The descriptions are also quite sparse. However, the building is well maintained and many of the pieces are in great shape. The gardens and rest areas are beautiful. It’s free once a month for locals and there are discounts for military, some hotels, and locals. There’s really no theme. Everything is arranged by location of origin. Even has some famous artists like picssso, Monet, cezaanne. Well worth a visit on a rainy day.
Owen — Google review
I wish I could have spent all day here. I actually enjoyed it more than the MoMA! Uncrowded, you could get up close to each painting and spend as long as you wanted admiring each brush stroke. Loved the couple of Georgia O'Keeffe paintings. It's truly a multi-cultural collection, I was blown away by the Asian galleries, and I admire how each statue was given enough room to breathe. Nothing feels over-crowded, so each one has time to sink in. Loved the temporary collections, the photographs, the Japanese prints, the Mediterranean courtyard, and the live music on Friday night. If I ever come back to Hawaii I'll be sure to visit again!
Zara R — Google review
This was a great museum lots of exhibits in a small building multiple separate rooms with artifacts and other historic items from the years of just 200 to all the way at the 20th century, there was a lot of interesting artwork and history in display here which they all have a description under it
Jacob R — Google review
I loved it! I came a little later in the afternoon and it felt intimate. There's so much to do. I would set aside 3 to 4 hours to look at everything. The moment I walked in the customer service was impeccable! I finished off with dinner in the cafe. Had the most amazing mahi-mahi sandwich I've ever had in my life! It was fresh and my waitress was accommodating! I was starstruck at the Monet painting and being a Haitian woman, I was so happy to see some representation in the art as well. I was so blessed to come here.
Jennifer P — Google review
4.6
(5200)
4.5
(2938)
Mentioned on 
Museum
Specialty Museums
Bishop Museum, also known as the Hawaii State Museum of Natural and Cultural History, is a must-visit destination in Oahu. Established in 1888, it honors the legacy of Princess Bernice with millions of artifacts and exhibits showcasing Hawaiian and other Pacific Island cultures. The museum's impressive building exudes old-world charm with its dark wood and wrought iron accents.
Took our 2.5 year old who loves dinosaurs to see the dinosaur exhibit. The exhibit did not disappoint. The dinosaurs were lifelike and moved/made noises. While there we also went to the Hawaii Culture center to learn more about Hawaiian culture. You could spend days in the three floors of Hawaiian culture. We also went to the science building to learn about bees, lava, and wind. It was a great educational and fun visit.
Sue H — Google review
The best museum on the islands! The buildings were beautiful and full of so much history. We loved all the artifacts, interactive displays, and knowledgeable staff. It’s a great place to walk around and revel in Hawaiian history. There’s also a fun science and dinosaur centers. Don’t forget to stop by the food center to get some truly amazing coffee and food too. Worth every penny!
K — Google review
I recently visited the Bishop Museum and was thoroughly impressed! The exhibits on Hawaiian history and culture were fascinating, and the staff were super friendly and knowledgeable. The planetarium shows were also a upcharge, but offering a unique perspective on the stars and navigation. My only suggestion would be to allow more time to explore the separate exhibits, as they were spread out across different buildings. Overall, a fantastic experience that I'd highly recommend to anyone interested in learning about Hawaiian culture and history.
Ben C — Google review
There are Kama’aina rates for the islanders, the waistline was not long. I recommend at least two hours prior to start browsing before closing time. The Planetarium, The Hawaiian Sky Tonight, is like a collage lecture, it is not a movie like I expected, if you’d like enjoy lecture experience it’s a good idea to go. Ticket purchase up the front with admission, and don’t forget the extra ticket to drop in the basket before entering. The show room is right on your right when you enter the museum, AC is nice. Dinosaur is available this year, it’s worth going, cute dinosaurs are really active.
Diana W — Google review
Cannot recommend this museum highly enough! It was fascinating to learn about the history and heritage of the Hawaiian people. The building itself and the grounds are beautiful and there are numerous fascinating artifacts, from throughout Hawaiian history. It is worth getting tickets in advance, as there is a slight discount.
Rani — Google review
The Bishop Museum is a must-visit in Honolulu for anyone interested in Hawaiian culture, history, and natural sciences. The exhibits are impressive and well presented, from ancient Hawaiian artifacts and royal family treasures to fascinating displays about Polynesian navigation and volcanoes. The planetarium shows and interactive science exhibits make it especially engaging for families and kids. The museum is spacious, beautifully designed, and offers a deep insight into the heritage of Hawaii and the Pacific. A perfect balance of education and inspiration — highly recommended!
Ernesto G — Google review
This museum is a must visit to get know the story of Hawaii. I visited the museum twice since I didn’t have enough time to see it all the first time I went. The building is beautiful and the display is extremely unique. They did a great job putting this together and keeping it in the shape it is today. I’m thankful I’m able to see it and show to our guests when they visit us on island. It is the first place I recommend them to visit. The museum also organizes dedicated events throughout the year, that are, in my opinion, extremely interesting. I try to miss out on them and take my family if we can. Also need to add that the planetarium was a surprise and would definitely recommend it.
Austin — Google review
Nice enough museum, but the exhibit “experiences” aren’t well maintained and there’s no one to ask for help. There’s a really cool feature in the Dinosaur exhibit where kids can color a dinosaur and have their coloring scanned so that it appears on a screen with other kids’ drawings. Super cool and definitely fun for kids… but there was no paper and not a single staff member to ask. Staff members at the front desk said it was the “exhibit’s responsibility.” Tried calling, but the touch tone (“press 5 for exhibits”) didn’t work. Pressed “0” for the operator and a security guard picked up and he said he’d “try calling someone.” So, again, it’s a nice museum but you’re left to “enjoy” it on your own and if you need any assistance, there’s no one to ask. For the price of the tickets, it would be nice if the staff expressed a little more interest in guest experience.
Jen K — Google review

Top places to eat

4.4
(2413)
4.4
(1005)
Mentioned on 
expensive
Vietnamese restaurant
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Honolulu's Chinatown, The Pig and The Lady is a must-visit for anyone craving modern Vietnamese cuisine with a twist. This family-run gem offers an exciting menu that changes regularly, showcasing inventive dishes that are rich in flavor and creativity. One standout item is their famous pho French dip sandwich, which has garnered rave reviews for its unique combination of braised brisket and Thai basil chimichurri, served alongside a comforting bowl of pho broth perfect for dipping.
We came for the highly recommended Pho French Dip. We found it’s only available for lunch… although our highly skilled waiter told us it’s also available at the farmers market on Saturdays. I had the pork chop with mango slaw - it was amazing! We enjoyed incredible appetizers: chicken wings fried to perfection with a tasty sauce + peanuts and a Cesar salad. The dessert was incredible: a soft serve with a unique Vietnamese honeycomb cake. Oh, and the bathroom was hilarious and cool!
Nick S — Google review
I don't often leave reviews but I'm still thinking about this meal 2 months later so I feel it's only right to say something. We found this restaurant while visiting and I'm so glad we did - I'm not usually a fan of asian fusion but The Pig & the Lady proved me wrong. Each dish was a 10/10 and service was warm and attentive. We enjoyed our dinner so much we squeezed in another lunch visit the next day before our flight. Honolulu wasn't my favourite but I'd come back just to have this meal again, the team at The Pig and the Lady should be proud of the work they do
Deanna S — Google review
We were excited to see this new location and it did not disappoint. Vibe is super cute, food is onos as always, staff was friendly & parking was super easy. They validate parking for the Civil Beat structure ($3 after validation) or you can park in the open lot by 3660. We shared a couple apps then ordered our own mains. Highly recommend if you never got to try them while they were downtown. Will definitely be back!
Elisa A — Google review
Popular restaurant. Highly recommended reservations. This is unassuming - but pack culinary punch. We had the Phô French Dip and the Vietnamese kebab. Both outstanding flavors. Great care from kitchen staff. Excellent lunch
Joacim M — Google review
One of the best bowls of pho I’ve had in a long time. The broth was rich and delicious with a deep beef flavor, fatty but not overwhelming. Surprisingly, the meal came without the usual plate of herbs and bean sprouts, and it didn’t need it. Everything was seasoned perfectly, so I never felt the need to add anything extra. The noodles tasted like pho tuoi (fresh noodles) rather than the factory-made kind, which made a big difference. The star of the bowl was a massive rib bone with tender, fall-off-the-bone meat. Service was attentive and friendly, adding to the experience. A perfect spot for either a date night or a casual meal. The decor and ambience struck a nice balance, relaxing yet vibrant.
V N — Google review
Amazing service. Amazing food. Innovative menu. The Chinese mustard dressing on the chrysanthemum salad was out of hand. The cabbage, delectable and the yolk sauce almost made me cry it was so good. The bites were great! I had a couple of good cocktails too.
Maria R — Google review
Some of the best food we had on the island. We went for our last dinner on Oahu (and my birthday) and we weren't disappointed. I'd seen the place on a few food shows and had checked out their menu online, so I knew we wouldn't be disappointed. They had recently moved locations, but all of their communication via text and reservation made it super easy to find. It's about a 10-15 minute drive outside of Waikiki if you're on vacation and planning on going, but it was just a $10 Uber for us each way. Anyway, incredible menu. Tons of options, and if you're not regularly eating Vietnamese food, probably hard to pronounce or envision. It was hard to pare down what we wanted, but got a couple small plates and then shared a couple entrees. You could make any number of interesting combinations the way their menu is laid out. We started with one each of their bites, basically a tuna crostini, Vietnamese pickle skewer (so interesting and good), and potato three ways (even better). We kept seeing the chicken wings go out, so we got a small order after our server told us they were probably the most popular thing on the menu. Honestly the biggest letdown of the meal - underseasoned fried whole wings with a sauce that had to be sopped up from the plate to get any flavor. Pass. The entrees were 1 for 2, with a massive epaulette pasta pair, though the sausage should've been broken up and distributed more evenly. We ended up eating more of the pho, which was understandably and appreciably delicious. We also got a side of mushrooms over grits for just a few bucks, which ended up being one of our favorite few bites. Their dessert menu is great as well, and we got to try some of the soft serve since they put together something for my birthday. Much appreciated. Our server was awesome, but I'm knocking a service star just because it was the longest meal we've ever experienced at almost 3 hours for some reason. There were lots of times where we were just sitting and waiting between courses, with seemingly only one or two servers but lots of food & water runners. It was a busy night and they were celebrating, but still. If you go, go with a group of 4 to 6 so you can order and sample more - the menu just lends itself to it, and I hate we missed out on some great things limited by our bellies. Great spot. Lunch looks awesome as well.
Blake R — Google review
This restaurant is not as good as people make it. The pho + added oxtail was $37. You don’t even get a full piece of oxtail and the broth was flavorless. The pho noodles were also strange? Chicken wings came out hot and was really good. The grilled oysters were very different and had good flavor, just a bit too salty. Also ordered a Thai tea to go..Thai tea was clearly just a powder mix. I won’t be returning.
Jessica H — Google review
4.5
(744)
4.4
(339)
Mentioned on 
expensive
Pacific Rim restaurant
MW Restaurant is a stylish dining spot that offers innovative Hawaiian cuisine and cocktails crafted from locally sourced ingredients. Run by husband-and-wife team Wade Ueoka and Michelle Karr-Ueoka, the restaurant presents a dessert menu that features over 10 options, showcasing Pastry Chef Michelle Karr-Ueoka's expertise as a James Beard Award semifinalist for Outstanding Pastry Chef.
A wonderful dining experience! Loved all the flavors and presentations. Service was great. Finding the valet parking was interesting as it is on the second floor - the restaurant's directions may seem unusual but they make sense when you get there.
Michael O — Google review
The best meal I’ve ever had! We did the chefs tasting menu and loved every course! They really know how to balance textures and flavors. Highly recommend the wine pairing as well. Blown away by both the food and the service! Highly recommend! If you are driving or getting a ride, follow directions given by the restaurant when you make the reservation, follow the signs to the 2nd floor parking garage. Alternatively, if you are on foot/dropped off on the block, you can get to the restaurant by going into Artizen and going up the glass walled staircase.
Beth R — Google review
When picked up the menu, you glanced thru everything and you think you know what to expect and you would be surprised. I did. I thought it's just fried fish and I was surprised. I thought I ordered shaved ice and I was surprised. I thought I ordered crab cakes and expected like what crab cakes like out there and once again, I was surprised. Crab cakes - I ordered the crab cakes, and it was excellent. It's not like those usual crab cakes where it filled with battered and have more starch than crab meat. This one is all crab meat inside. My wife ended up ate 2/3 of them. Mochi salad with crispy chicken skin - I don't like salad but I thought I tried. The end result was I finished 70% of the salad because it was delectable. The dressing was spicy, but the persimmon sliced and the tomatoes with the greens were just perfect. I never thought I could like a salad that much. Short ribs - The meat fell off the bone... Well, there was no bone but it's definitely tender. Potatoes were nicely crisp and the foie gras was nicely seared. Mochi crusted kampachi - Surprisingly crunchy fish. Very fresh. This is one fine dine dish. Impressive. Strawberry shaved ice - It's not really shaved ice, it's more like shaved strawberries and the coconut tapioca was very good. So coconut-y. This is one satisfied fine dine experience. Very impressed that you find something with this quality in Hawai'i.
Mark L — Google review
Note: I am reviewing this as a fine dining restaurant, relative to other fine dining restaurants I have been to. Compared to a normal restaurant, this is certainly a 5 star experience. I went in for the tasting menu at open, and had a reservation for the bar. The location is kinda weird, being right next to auto dealerships. I hope that the savings from location rent are passed onto the consumer. I did the 5 course tasting menu; however, I forgot to take a picture of the tenderlion. They accommodated my shellfish allergy, and did a substitution which I appreciated. The food was excellent, certainly showed off the quality of the chefs and was on par with what I expect from chefs claiming experience at the French Laundry. My only complaint on the food was with the first course, which was a soft boiled egg with caviar and wasabi. At the end it just became too eggy, I wish there was more depth of flavor. I got the wine pairing, which I would not recommend for others to get. The wine was fine, and I assume being on Oahu it's not as easy to get the quality wine I am used to in places like California. The cocktail menu seemed good, and the other patrons were enjoying them. So I would use the money on the wine pairing to get 2 or 3 cocktails instead. Overall. Great food, certainly a good option for a celebration or just enjoying fine dining in Honolulu. The chefs clearly know what they are doing and I wish them success in their future endeavors!
Peter G — Google review
A thoughtfully crafted menu offering a wide variety of flavorful meals and drinks with friendly service. However I wish there were more mocktail options.
Xandra — Google review
Our waiter Darren was very knowledgeable and friendly in providing recommendations. The food was absolutely delicious. We ordered the unagi butterfish, the paella, the kanpachi and the brûlée and everything was so fresh and full of flavor. We even received cookies as a parting gift!
Irene T — Google review
Located inside a car dealership, this was my first time dining among millions of dollars worth of brand new sports cars. And it was a lovely experience of elevated local flavors in a fine dining establishment. I did the chef's tasting menu, and every course was delicious. My favorite was the opening appetizer, which contained caviar and egg. Their main specialty was the mochi kanpachi, and I really enjoyed it too! For cocktails, I had the Georgia O'Keefe and asked why it was named after a haole woman. Nomenclature wise, their other cocktail Lychee Hoo was actually a play on local culture, which made more sense. The staff asked around for me, but no one knew why. "Just use your imagination", the bartender said. "Like Georgia O'Keefe did." I had so much fun at MW.
Jenny T — Google review
Been to many restaurants on Oahu over the last 8 years, and this one takes the cake! Menu is unique and comprehensive — there’s something for everyone — and the execution was flawless. Ordered 4 appetizers, 2 entrees, 1 dessert, and 2 drinks, and every one of them hit the mark. Our favs were the dumplings, inari bombs, and the tenderloin! Our waiter Tyler was so attentive and gave us just the right amount of space. We’ll be back in no time!
R L — Google review
888 Kapiolani Blvd, Commercial Unit, Suite 201, Honolulu, HI 96813, USAhttp://mwrestaurant.com/(808) 955-6505Tips and more reviews for MW Restaurant
4.4
(17884)
4.3
(16083)
Mentioned on 
affordable
Seafood restaurant
Duke's Waikiki is a popular beachfront restaurant with a tiki vibe and lively atmosphere, located facing Waikiki's famous Canoes surf break. Named after Duke Kahanamoku, the father of modern surfing, the casual spot offers a variety of appetizers, a large salad bar, and crowd-pleasing entrees such as fish and prime rib. The venue also features memorabilia honoring Duke Kahanamoku and serves the famous Hula Pie dessert.
Had one of our favorite meals of our trip here! I had the vegan wild mushroom & spinach ravioli and my fiancé had the teriyaki sirloin. Beyond delicious for both dishes, mine was flavorful with the macadamia nut pesto and my fiancé said his steak was one of the best he’s ever had. We were seated immediately despite the busy Sunday dinner rush, and our server was super kind and quick to bring us our drinks & check in on us multiple times. Our server was also very knowledgeable on vegan food and recommended a couple places for me to try, and even knew to let me know while the desert they had was technically vegan, but it did contain honey. He talked to us about life on O’ahu and Kauai and was such an amazing server and truly made our last night such a treat. Highly recommend trying this place
Annie H — Google review
Nicest place. On the beach. Great lights and live music. Took 20 minutes to the waiter to reach me for order but other then that was very nice and welcoming. I had the “prime rib staek” which was definitely corn fed and tasted like cheapest steak I have ever eaten. Look at the color in the picture it was curiously red🤨 French fries was cool but not really throughly made. Mashed potatoes was perfect and freshly made.
Yosef G — Google review
Tasty food, but very corporate feeling. You could literally taste the corporate in every bite. IYKYK. The calimari was phenomenal, though. They definitely don't make it like that on the mainland. They're not the little rings we're used to. They were big, meaty morsels. Main entrees were underwhelming. Again, see "corporate" comments above. I'm blanking on our server's name, which is extremely unfortunate, because she was top notch. I really, really wanted to give her a shout-out here, but then vacation happened and I'm just getting around to leaving reviews now that I'm home. Brittany, maybe? I hope so, because she deserves the recognition. Beautiful ocean views, but again, the whole place feels a bit corporate for my liking. The buffet looked ok, but pretty skippable, so we opted to order off the menu instead. The hula pie was simple but delicious. If you like ice cream cake, it's 100% going to be your jam.
Matt H — Google review
What an incredible dining experience! Glad we had made reservations...although we were told it wasn't super busy. Got our tables after getting a drink in the bar. Our server Mario was exceptional. Started out with the poke tacos. Wife ordered rhe prime rib and I got the filet. The prime rib was enormous and it was a small cut! Cooked to perfection. My filet was the perfect size and also prepared expertly. Added a visit to the all you can eat salad bar and was not disappointed. Would definitely recommend for a great meal. And if you get Mario for a server you will be in for a treat.
Jeff B — Google review
Fun location. It is a classic. The food at the beach bar is tacos burgers etc. Good quality the drinks are well priced. Typical entre around $20 Riley was great with suggestions and recommendations.
Tj G — Google review
I'll always remember my trip to Oahu and my bday dinner at Dukes. The atmosphere was amazing.I love the decor and of course eating dinner on the beach at sunset was incredible. I had top-notch service. The server Frank was incredible and the manager. She came and checked on all of the tables and was very friendly.
Lorraine K — Google review
Duke’s is everything you’d want in a Hawaiian dining experience! We first went for lunch and loved it so much, we came back a few days later for dinner. The Hawaiian-style casual vibe, paired with a fresh selection of fish and steak, made every meal memorable. We were seated right by the beach, and hearing the waves while enjoying dinner truly added to the island feel. The outdoor atmosphere was absolutely perfect: relaxed, breezy, and so scenic. And let’s talk about dessert… their Hula Pie is a bomb! Sweet, creamy, and the perfect way to end a beachside meal. 🌴🍽️🌊 If you’re looking for island favorites with an unbeatable view and delicious food, Duke’s is a must-visit!
Mae M — Google review
Pulled Pork Nachos, Coconut Shrimp, Fish Tacos, Mai Tai, Blended POG with vodka, and Coconut Mojito were yummy! We sat at the table area close the flower stand and it was pretty hot, would be nice if they added fans to the area to circulate the air. Cyerrah K was our server, she was very nice and attentive.
Suwida — Google review
2335 Kalākaua Ave #116, Honolulu, HI 96815, USAhttps://www.dukeswaikiki.com/(808) 922-2268Tips and more reviews for Duke's Waikiki
4.5
(3481)
4.5
(906)
Mentioned on 
affordable
Hawaiian restaurant
Restaurant
Helena's Hawaiian Food is a beloved restaurant in Honolulu, serving up traditional Hawaiian dishes since 1946. The casual setting and simple menu allow the focus to be on the delicious food, including kalua pork, lomi salmon, pipikaula (quick ribs), and squid luau. This family-run gem has received accolades such as the James Beard Americas Classics award in 2000 for its authentic regional cuisine.
The food here is arguably one of the best spots you’ll eat at. The hustle and bustle of the restaurant is fun, but we were in a rush and din’t want to wait for a spot. We opted to just eat in our car. All the meats were delicious and every time we come we get the Poi to see if it agrees with us better this time. Each time we fail to find enjoyment in it, but try try again!
Frank B — Google review
Helena's is hands down one of our absolute favorite spots every time we visit Hawaii! The food is consistently amazing--comforting, flavorful, and worth every bite. We were so happy to see their recent expansion, and it makes the experience even better. The staff here are always so lovely and welcoming, making you feel right at home from the moment you walk in. This place has become a tradition for us, and we can't imagine a trip to Hawaii without stopping by.
Rj A — Google review
Excellent! Went for lunch on a Friday, it was busy but there were some seats. Parking was somewhat difficult but doable if you are able to walk 1-2 blocks. We ordered one of the menu’s that included short rib, the salmon salad, pork, side of rice + the coconut finale. We also included a fried fish that was recommended. Everything came out of the kitchen rather fast. First, the salmon salad: we liked it, but we think it was normal, we are no experts in that dish. Next, short rib: excellent. Tasty, great color, goes very good with the rice. Fried fish: juicy, cooked to perfection. Pork: tasty, also goes very well with the rice. To end lunch, we tried the coconut (“jello”). It was good, just not used to eat it with onion. Price was super reasonable as it was a good amount of food. Definitely recommend if you want a Hawaiian experience!
Alvaro M — Google review
Helena's came highly recommended during our visit to Hawai'i, and we finally had the opportunity to check them out. Upon arrival, we were able to order immediately. While there was seating available, we opted to order our food to go. We ordered the long rice chicken, a small order of Pipikaula-style short ribs, macaroni salad, and fried butter fish. It didn't take long to receive our food. For the prices, the portion sizes seemed a bit small. When we finally ate, we felt that the food didn't meet our expectations. The short ribs were a bit tough, the butter fish was excessively salty but the vinegar helped balance it out, and the macaroni salad was probably our favorite, but not the best one we had in Hawai'i. After trying Waiahole Poi Factory's chicken long rice, which was incredibly flavorful, we felt this one was lacking in taste. Overall, Helena's was okay, but it didn't quite live up to the hype!
Carmen H — Google review
Helena’s has been on my food wishlist for years and I finally made it on this trip for a late lunch. I can’t stop thinking about how delicious it was - easily my favourite meal I’ve ever had in Hawai’i. Enjoyed the Laulau (tender, rich, and flavourful), the butterfish collar (so fresh, light, and crispy) and poi (love how it balanced the richness of the Laulau). They brought out a plate with raw sliced onion and a lovely coconut dessert plus a small side of local salt - pro tip I learned the midway through the meal: dip the onion into the salt and eat with the food and it’s the most amazing flavour enhancer (nice salt and acidity)! Hours later my onion breath lingers land i’m trying to figure out if I can come back before my flight tomorrow to try the dry aged beef ribs. This restaurant and the staff deserve all the praise it gets. I’ll be dreaming of this meal until I can return again.
Naomi K — Google review
Food was ok but not worth the price. We ordered 5 Large orders of Short Ribs, 3 Large orders of Fried Ahi, & 3 Haupia that was suppose to feed 20 people for $200 (see pics). Maybe we assumed too much? Its up to you to decide.
Benedict M — Google review
We went for an early lunch on a Wednesday because we had read that it could get crowded. On the way, our Lyft driver gave us tips on what to order and how to eat it (don't eat everything separately - get a little bit of multiple things in each bite), which made the experience even more fun. We ordered Lomi Salmon, Short Ribs Pipikaula Style, Luau Squid, Kalua Pig & Cabbage and it came with haupia (a coconut dessert). Everything was delicious, but the ribs (oooh, the ribs!) are magical! I still think about them and it has been 7 months since we were there. If I ever have the chance to go back to Hawaii, I will definitely go back.
Kari S — Google review
If you’re in Honolulu looking for the best authentic Hawaiian food then Helena’s is where you want to be! We tried every other “top” restaurant and Helena’s was the absolute best of all- we returned on our second to last day to eat there again. The only problem is it was so good I’m going to be craving Helena’s and we like in Oklahoma!! 10/10 recommend- do NOT miss out! Side note- I have to eat Gluten free and almost everything on their menu was naturally GF.
James S — Google review
4.5
(2199)
4.4
(3555)
Mentioned on 
expensive
Seafood restaurant
Roy's Waikiki is a high-end restaurant chain that offers a contemporary setting and serves Hawaiian fusion cuisine created by renowned chef Roy Yamaguchi. With over three decades of culinary excellence, the restaurant blends fresh local ingredients with bold flavors from Asia and the Pacific. The elegant dining room and exceptional service add sophistication to the dining experience while maintaining a tropical ambiance.
What can be said about this place? Are you looking for a beautiful night out with your spouse? Are you celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or graduation? Are you looking for an absolutely amazing table side service? From the moment you walk in, you can feel the level of professionalism and pride everyone takes in working here. The food is absolutely delicious, the drinks are strong, and the service is OUT of this world. The price is FULLY justified here, but you will be hard pressed to find a better level of attention to detail at any other place on the Island. Josh was absolutely fantastic as well.
A A — Google review
Overall experience was very good. Several of us got the short ribs but one of us got one that was much tougher and tasted a bit different so make sure to let the staff know if you experience any inconsistencies. The rest of the meal had no issues. The outdoor patio area is nice but just a view of the street with the random loud car driving by now and then.
Tim C — Google review
A+ all the way, from wait staff to food and drink. The waitstaff really know their stuff and can answer any question about the food and what's included. The menu is vast and has so many good options. We went for our anniversary and then, while at the table, booked a reservation for three nights later. We wanted to come back. The macadamia nut-encrusted fish (catch of the day, so it may change) was beyond amazing. The short ribs were spectacular, and their sushi is some of the best I have tasted. 100% recommend Roys. ps.. Chocolate Lava Cake w/Vanilla Ice Cream - WOW, just freaking amazing, gotta try it, we had it 2x (one is enough for two people)
Craig S — Google review
Had dinner here with a group of 12. Standouts for me, the service was great! It is hard to find really good service these days, and our server was great. The food was very good. The sprouts were amazing and cooked perfectly and I loved the pickeled onions they had on there. The Cesar salad with their salmon was perfect. My husband got the poke and it was the most perfect simple dish that was so beyond good. You can’t beat the fish here, it is so special. Overall we were very happy and would come back. Oh, also, the drinks are good!
Cristina M — Google review
This is the most amazing meal I’ve had in my life. Drinks were great! We had the canoe sampler appetizer and everything on it was delicious. Fish entrees were also so good. Peanut butter crunch bar for dessert. Servers very attentive. 10/10 on the whole experience. I have absolutely zero complaints!
Andrea L — Google review
Had an amazing experience for my family dinner time with my toddler baby. The Sushi rolls were fantastic as it tasted so fresh, considered to be the best sushi I ever have in Hawaii and the staffs were very friendly and welcoming. They even offer a free appetizer for my small kid. Highly recommended for a lovely happy dinner
Pla N — Google review
We are here vacationing and this place was recommended and I Promise you that thus place is a Must!!! The place itself was beautiful! The service was excellent and the Food! We were celebrating my Granddaughters birthday and they have her a birthday hat and because she wanted a cheeseburger, which was not available at dinner, they made her a cheeseburger 😋 🥰 This made her night! The Server was so attentive and made recommendations and the other Staff came to our table just to acknowledge my Granddaughters birthday! The food did take some time to come, but they tell you this but when it came! OMG!! Amazing was an understatement! The meat cut with a fork and was just past delicious! Get to this restaurant!! You will Not be disappointed!
Roberta S — Google review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Absolutely Outstanding! Roy’s Waikiki was hands down one of the best dining experiences we’ve ever had! From start to finish, everything was perfection. The service was warm, professional, and attentive without ever feeling rushed. My husband and I both did the 3-course tasting menu (I added the wine pairing and would 100% recommend it!) — every dish was beautifully presented and bursting with fresh, incredible flavors. You can truly taste the quality and care that goes into each plate. Our daughter loved her handcrafted sushi and fresh tuna poke, which were easily some of the best we’ve had anywhere. If you’re in Waikiki, do not miss this place. Roy’s delivers not just a meal, but a true culinary experience. 🌺🍷🍣
Amanda S — Google review

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