3 full days on Oahu

Question

We'll be staying at the Embassy Suites Waikiki first of May. We have 3 full days before heading to Kauai. We'll have a car. This is my very rough plan so far: Day 1 Pearl Harbor area in am and Lolani Palace in pm. Day 2 Drive to North Shore visit Haleiwa in am and sight see Waikiki area pm. Day 3 Drive to Diamond Head and see area. Any comments/suggestions. Thanks.

Answer

Your itinerary for 3 days on Oahu looks great, but I have a few suggestions to help optimize your time and ensure you don't miss out on some other fantastic attractions!

Day 1 (Pearl Harbor & Iolani Palace):

Pearl Harbor: You’re off to a great start with Pearl Harbor. Be sure to allocate enough time for both the USS Arizona Memorial and the Battleship Missouri (if you choose to visit both). It can take a few hours to experience everything there. The museum and the boat ride to the Arizona Memorial are must-do's, and if you’re interested in military history, visiting the Battleship Missouri is also highly recommended. You might want to plan around 3-4 hours for this visit.
Iolani Palace: Iolani Palace is a great stop, and it’s relatively close to Pearl Harbor, so it fits well in the afternoon. The self-guided tour is interesting, and you'll learn about Hawaii’s royal history. If you’re interested in the local history, you could also stop by the nearby King Kamehameha statue for a quick photo.

Day 2 (North Shore & Haleiwa):

North Shore Drive: The drive to the North Shore is beautiful, but depending on traffic, it can take about 1-1.5 hours each way. Plan accordingly, especially if you want to stop at some of the iconic beaches like Waimea Bay or Pipeline along the way. It’s worth stopping at the famous shrimp trucks (like Giovanni’s) for lunch if you’re in the mood for something local and delicious!
Haleiwa: This charming town has a laid-back vibe with a mix of local shops, cafes, and galleries. You can check out the historic Haleiwa Bridge, stroll around town, and visit the iconic Matsumoto Shave Ice for a refreshing treat. If you're interested in a beach stop, Waimea Bay or Sunset Beach are lovely spots to explore.
Waikiki in the Afternoon: In the afternoon, you could explore Waikiki's shopping and dining options. Since you’ll be close to the heart of Waikiki, make sure to stroll along Kalakaua Avenue and maybe even dip your toes in the iconic Waikiki Beach. If you have time, visit the Honolulu Zoo or the Waikiki Aquarium for a relaxed afternoon. For dinner, you might want to try Duke's or any of the beachside restaurants to enjoy local seafood.

Day 3 (Diamond Head and Waikiki):

Diamond Head: Diamond Head is a must-see and one of the best hikes on the island, offering incredible views of Waikiki and beyond. Be sure to start early since the hike can take about 1.5-2 hours, depending on your pace, and it can get hot later in the day. The early morning is ideal, especially to avoid the midday heat. The hike is short but moderately challenging, so bring water and wear good shoes.
Explore Waikiki Further: After the hike, you could explore some of the quieter spots of Waikiki that are less touristy, such as Kapiolani Park, which is right next to Diamond Head. If you’re into art, you could also check out the Honolulu Museum of Art, or if you're into shopping, Ala Moana Center is a short drive away. You could also spend the afternoon relaxing at the beach or exploring the shops and cafes in the area.

Additional Suggestions:

Hanauma Bay: If you’re interested in snorkeling, Hanauma Bay is a fantastic spot. It’s a protected marine embayment and offers some of the best snorkeling on Oahu, with vibrant coral reefs and abundant sea life. You would need to book reservations in advance, as they limit the number of visitors.
Sunset at Tantalus Lookout: If you have extra time on your third day, consider heading up to Tantalus Lookout for a beautiful sunset view over Honolulu. The drive up is short, and the panoramic views are stunning.

Overall, you’ve planned a solid itinerary, but just make sure to account for driving time and potential traffic. Oahu is a relatively small island, but traffic can be heavy, especially around Waikiki. Starting your days early will help you avoid the crowds and give you more time to explore! Have an amazing time on your trip!