What to do and see for a month?

Question

We have done almost all the tourists sites over the years during our visits to Honolulu . We will be spending 4 weeks on our next visit in Honolulu with a car. Are there any unique or non touristy places that we can/should visit? Our month visit will be just in Honolulu.

If there are any good restaurants (Japanese, Asian, Hawaiian) that locals frequent would be great for us as well.

Thank you in advance for any suggestions. With appreciation.

Answer

Spending a month in Honolulu is a fantastic opportunity to explore the more unique, hidden gems of the island and experience the local lifestyle beyond the typical tourist spots. Here are some suggestions for both activities and restaurants to make your stay more special and authentic:

Unique and Non-Touristy Places to Visit:

Makiki Heights Trail: This is a lesser-known hike that offers great views of Honolulu and the surrounding areas. It’s a moderate trail, not too crowded, and it will give you a chance to enjoy some beautiful local nature and get a bit of a workout in.
Manoa Falls: While this hike is somewhat popular, it’s less visited compared to others like Diamond Head. It’s a short hike (about 1.5 miles round-trip) through a lush rainforest, and at the end, you’ll be rewarded with a gorgeous waterfall. Early mornings tend to be quieter.
Palolo Valley and the Kaimuki Neighborhood: For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, take a drive through the Palolo Valley, a quieter residential area with some hidden gems, including local gardens and rural landscapes. Kaimuki is a charming neighborhood known for its local cafes, markets, and unique boutiques.
Byodo-In Temple: Located in the Valley of the Temples Memorial Park, this is a beautiful, peaceful Buddhist temple modeled after a 900-year-old structure in Japan. It's a serene spot that many visitors miss.
Hawaiian Islands Land Trust (HILT) Sites: The HILT offers access to some private lands that are protected and less frequented by tourists. They offer hiking opportunities in pristine natural areas where you can experience Hawaii’s untouched landscapes.
Hālawa Valley: If you want a more cultural and natural experience, Hālawa Valley offers guided tours where you can learn about ancient Hawaiian history and explore lush landscapes, waterfalls, and archaeological sites.

Local Restaurants to Try:

When it comes to eating like a local, there are plenty of fantastic places where Honolulu residents enjoy authentic and delicious meals. Here are some spots that are beloved by locals, especially for Japanese, Asian, and Hawaiian cuisine:

Aiea Bowl: Known for its local comfort food, this unassuming spot is famous for its plate lunches, including chicken katsu, loco moco, and other Hawaiian favorites.
Ono Seafood: If you love poke, Ono Seafood is a must-visit. It’s a small, local favorite that serves some of the best poke on the island, with fresh fish and a variety of options.
Marukame Udon: This Japanese udon noodle spot is always bustling with locals. The noodles are made fresh daily, and you can customize your dish with various toppings. It’s a quick, casual place with great value.
Ginger Flower: Located in the Chinatown area, Ginger Flower is a hidden gem for Thai and Southeast Asian dishes, offering authentic flavors and creative dishes.
Musubi Cafe Iyasume: A great spot for a quick bite, this cafe serves delicious musubi (rice and spam wrapped in seaweed), along with other Japanese snacks like bento boxes and miso soup.
Liliha Bakery: A Honolulu institution, Liliha Bakery serves both traditional Hawaiian breakfast items and bakery treats. Locals rave about their coco puffs, but their plate lunches are also excellent.
La Mer (at the Halekulani Hotel): If you’re looking for a more upscale dining experience, La Mer offers fine French-inspired cuisine with spectacular oceanfront views. It’s one of the best fine dining options on the island.
Helena’s Hawaiian Food: A great place for traditional Hawaiian dishes like kalua pig, lomi lomi salmon, and poi. It’s a local institution and often a go-to spot for Hawaiian comfort food.
Shiro’s Saimin Haven: For something really local, saimin is Hawaii’s version of ramen, and Shiro’s has been serving up this comfort food since 1969. It’s beloved by locals and a great way to experience this island specialty.

Additional Recommendations:

Explore Chinatown: Beyond the markets, Chinatown in Honolulu has some hidden gems, like art galleries, cocktail bars, and more offbeat restaurants. It’s a great place to wander and discover some of Oahu’s lesser-known local spots.
Sunset at Tantalus Lookout: While not entirely unknown, this spot offers a stunning panoramic view of the city of Honolulu, the coastline, and Diamond Head. It’s a great place for a sunset drive and has far fewer tourists than the more popular lookout points.
Surfing in Kailua: Kailua is a charming beach town on the windward side of Oahu. It’s less commercialized and offers calm beaches, great for swimming, kayaking, and enjoying a relaxing day away from the crowds.

With a month on the island, you’ll have plenty of time to explore and experience these more local, hidden treasures. Don’t forget to venture out early in the morning to avoid crowds at popular spots, and always check with locals for the latest recommendations—they’re often the best source for finding new places and activities that aren’t on the typical tourist radar. Enjoy your stay in Honolulu!