The biggest reason everyone gathers at this beachfront restaurant is the music and the patio sunsets. The sound is "Contemporary Hawaiian" and appeals to a youngish demographic. Groups that often play here are Kapena, Makana and Lilikoi Sisters (Friday through Sunday evenings). The food includes fresh fish, burgers and a tasty club sandwich. The atmosphere offers a great beach setting with traditional Hawaiian friendliness. There is a breakfast buffet (USD9.95) and lunch buffet (USD10.50). The adjoining bar is a good place to have a drink before heading back to the beach. ...more

If you have a desire to learn about the natural treasures of the sea, then this establishment in Waikiki is the place to visit. There are fascinating exhibits on how coral and pearls transform into beautiful jewelry and works of art. Other exhibits showcase endangered plants and birds of the islands, and there's a wonderful area devoted to Hawaii's volcanic past. There is a for-sale area where you can pick up local arts and crafts made from the natural materials of the Hawaiian Islands. ...more

Ono means "delicious" in the Hawaiian language. This restaurant serves authentic, ono Hawaiian food, from jerky-like pipikalua to laulau (ti-leaf wrapped steamed packets filled chunks of pork). Most dishes come as complete combination plates, including a square of haupia (coconut pudding) for dessert. This is not a place for vegetarians, and the drinks are limited to canned sodas. Check out the wall-to-wall autographed photos of celebrity customers. No reservations are accepted. ...more

If the idea of a calm, elegant dinner cruise bores you, this might be the kind of marine excursion that you like. The sleek, 44-foot craft is the fastest in all the islands, thanks to its custom-designed mast. It cuts through the waves at speeds of up to 20 knots—though not without a little splashing. In the daytime, the Maita'I takes passengers on a 90-minute cruise to Diamond Head, while the evening cruise sails straight into the sunset. Sunset MaiTai Sail $34 adults, $17 child 13 and under, includes beverages, TradeWind Sails $23 adults, $12 child, 3 and under free. ...more

Two tasteful nightly belly dancing performances draw everyone from former Middle Eastern residents to honeymooning couples to, Honolulu's only Egyptian restaurant. The attractive sand-colored dining room features intricate brass lamps, hieroglyphics and mother-of-pearl inlay furniture. Lunch buffet is served Monday-Saturday. Dinner entrees include Shawerma (thin slices of grilled, spiced lamb or chicken) and Reiash (grilled rack of lamb) - all served with basmati rice, salad and pita bread. Plenty of vegetarian selections are available, too. Beverages include a few beers, cocktails and wine by the glass or the bottle. ...more

Due to a large Chinese population, the food in Chinatown restaurants is both authentic and delicious. This Chinatown restaurant is one of the best Dim Sum places in the islands. You can feast on all manner of seafood and meat dishes at reasonable prices. A recommendation for dinner: Seafood with Shiitake Mushrooms and Scallops. This place is brightly lit with Cantonese-style decor; animated Chinese conversations resound from just about every table. ...more

This 200-acre stretch of Koko Crater was set aside in 1958, with a long-term (as yet only partially realized) plan of turning it into a botanical garden. Eventually, it will be a landscape where endangered plants suitable to this desert-like region can survive and flourish. Even in the early stages of development, visitors can find collections of plumeria and other flowers. A two-mile loop trail leads through dryland plant collections from around the world. No visitor facilities (restrooms, drinking fountains, etc.) have yet been constructed. Entrance to the garden is free. ...more

Take two guys who quit their day jobs and dig into their mother's recipe book and you get Sugoi, a "Best Plate Lunch" winner, 3 years running. Established in 2000 on a whim and a dream, this place continues to draw locals and tourists alike largely because they KISS....(Keep It Simple, Stupid!). Sugoi believes in making tasty food, heaping on large portions at affordable prices and keeping the service brisk and friendly. So whether it's short ribs or yakisoba noodles, hamburgers or their signature sweet n' salty chicken, Sugoi has something to tickle everyone's tastebuds. ...more

This is the smallest of the five Honolulu Botanical Gardens. Located just north of Foster Botanical Garden, the 7.5-acre garden makes a lovely spot to sit and reflect, surrounded by the serenity of natural Hawaiian flora. Queen Liliuokulani, the beloved last reigning monarch of Hawai'i, bestowed this land, which was her favorite picnic ground, upon the city and people of Honolulu. The garden features only native Hawaiian plants and shelters a stream and waterfalls. Entrance is free. ...more

This hybrid bar and grill is somewhere between a Irish Pub and a laid-back island-style café. Set in the middle of downtown Honolulu, it is a favorite hang-out for the business and media communities and one of the only places in the Hawaiian Islands where you can get a pint of Guinness from the tap. While the bar roars with excitement, the restaurant serves great salads, steaks and other fare at decent prices. The food is fresh, and the service is congenial. ...more

Nico's serves tasty French food in the traditional Hawaiian way. Quick service and good prices is one of its best features. Opening early in the morning, for those hungry for a sea breakfast, Nico's remains open until well after 6 when everyone heads home. The restaurant gets most of its customers from the Auction house next door and what keeps them coming back is the delicious food topped with quick service and reasonable prices. Lots of cheese and lots of fish–this seems to be their basic ingredients which somehow never taste alike in more than one dish. Add to this fresh salad, some dip and a scoop of rice, the food served here becomes even more flavorful and rich. ...more

This is one of several Wyland galleries located throughout the island chain. On display are the enchanting whale paintings by the gallery's namesake, along with works by other underwater and nature artists. John Pitre, Scott Hansen and Al Hougue are a few of the painters and sculptors that have permanent exhibits at Wyland Galleries. The original works are pricey, but reasonably priced prints are generally available. Other Wyland Galleries are located on Maui, Kauai and the island of Hawaii. ...more

Good cheap Vietnamese keeps people coming back for more at this eatery. Although primarily noted for its seafood, this place prepares many inventive Vietnamese dishes you won't find elsewhere. The poached Hong Kong-style Kahuku shrimp is delectable. Many lunch items are served during breakfast hours (8a-11a). Clean, simple, and unassuming, this eatery is appropriate for a family meal out, a casual date, or a mid-afternoon snack. Bow-tied waiters provide gracious, attentive service. ...more

Built in 1882 by Hawaii's last king, David Kalakaua, this stately old three-story building is a real treat to tour. After the overthrow of the King's sister Queen Liliuokalani in 1893, the structure served as the territorial and state capitol until 1969. The Palace Galleries showcases jewels and regalia from the days of Hawaiian royalty. Guided tours are offered every 30 minutes and reservations are suggested. ...more

Southern-style barbecue and crab is the theme of this establishment. Whether you choose the BBQ chicken, baby back ribs or the "Mess O' Crabs," you'll walk away satisfied by a meal at this eatery. Enjoy a generous portion of old-fashioned meat loaf, or dive into the daily fresh fish special. The fried chicken is authentic and priced right at $6.95. The late-night menu is served right up until the 2a closing time. ...more

German-born baker Rolf Winkler brought this bakery/cafe concept to Honolulu. His establishment offers a large selection of pastries including French croissants, European bread and flaky crusted fruit pies. The sandwich offerings are exceptionally good; try the piled-high ham. The soups are equally satisfying. For those who really want to go for it, there is a rich hot fudge sundae or a sinful banana split. One of its other locations is in the Kahala Mall. ...more

Oahu's balmy weather makes it the perfect place for an evening stroll;or better yet, a romantic carriage ride. This company offers carriage rides through Waikiki nightly, from 6:30p-11p. Each ride is approximately 20 minutes and passengers may choose to be dropped off anywhere they choose (as long as it is convenient to the route). All day rentals are also available for special occasions; contact the office for details. The location for the rides change in December. ...more

Hosted by a few of Honolulu's best chefs, this restaurant opens only after these chefs' own kitchens shut for the day. Because Side Street Inn is located on the busy industrial side of town, it's a bit on the pricey side but well worth it. Contrary to what you would expect the food is delicious and they serve big portions, although it's high in calories, the people love it and that's why its sometimes hard to get a seat in the always packed restaurant. Another definite reason to stop by is the commendable service. Side Street Inn even has Karaoke nights and television sets for the sports fans, so go on and enjoy the local Hawaiian culture. ...more

For the ultimate thrill, try this popular adventure sport. Sail above the seas on a small parachute that's being towed by a speedboat. People who have gone say there's nothing like it. This company is Hawaii's oldest parasail operator, and one of its most respected. It's been running for 25 years. You couldn't pick a better company in which to place your trust and your life. If going solo seems a bit scary, take a tandem ride. Adrenaline junkies are encouraged to ask about the "Wet and Wild Rides." Call directly or ask an activity broker for more information. ...more

If you like blazingly spicy Thai cooking, this is the place for you. Although the name suggests that the food is from the tourist island of Phuket, the food is actually prepared the way it is in the Eastern province of Issan. The dining area is decorated in red and purple colors and accented with Oriental art. All of the food here is very authentic, with no compromise on the use of chillis;they are in everything. Not by coincidence, sweet Thai iced tea is served by the gallon. The roomy eatery occupies a perch on the second floor of the McCully shopping complex. ...more

Andy's Sandwiches and Smoothies is a mom and pop restaurant in Manoa valley that serves up fresh, healthy fare. It's a favorite lunch venue for vegetarians, old-time Manoa residents, and university students and professors. Owners Andy and Norma Rodrigues greet customers by name and ask if they'd like their usual. For many, the usual is the hot turkey and mushroom sandwich with papaya seed dressing or a vegetarian selection such as the Manoa Delight or the Eggplant Melt. For the tourist who wishes to venture a little further away from Waikiki for a mouth-watering lunch, Andy's is a good option. - Shiyana Thenabadu ...more

Hula dancers greet each sunset sailor as passengers depart on the largest of the local cruise ships, The Star of Honolulu. Visitors cruise off Oahu's leeward shore as the sun sinks below the horizon and the twinkling lights of Honolulu and Waikiki emerge in the dusk. There is always a live band and singers. Dine on a feast of steak and crab legs with a complimentary tropical cocktail. Prices for The Sunset Dinner cruise start at USD66 for adults and USD33 for children. ...more

Survey after survey finds this place's burgers to be the island's best. The Honolulu Advertiser says so, as does the respected Zagat Survey. The char-broiled burgers are the centerpiece, but the selection of sandwiches is also terrific and the mahi-mahi is always super fresh. The chicken selections deserve notice, especially the salads. According to one Hollywood star that recently stopped by for a meal, the fantastic fries that accompany most meals are "insane". ...more

Children are encouraged to learn about a diverse range of subjects at this busy, colorful facility. It offers a number of fanciful interactive displays and learning toys. Every subject from physiology to sociology is explored. Tour the 'Global Village' or play a game of volleyball...with a robot! The 37,000 square foot space offers several hours of entertainment for kids and parents. The center has been open since late 1998. It's geared toward children aged 3-13. ...more

Located near the Ala Moana Center, this is a delightful Italian bistro with home style cooking and atmosphere. The cozy and comfortable dining area, smiling waiters and singing chef impart a feeling of being in Italy. Especially worth trying are the delectable pastas made onsite. Prices are reasonable, and there is a decent selection of Italian wines and domestic and imported beers. Try the luscious and rich gelato for dessert. ...more

The hours of this late-night Waikiki cafe are unusual: 11p to 2p the next afternoon. Breakfast and lunch are the only meals served. As the name suggests, omelets are the mainstay here. Located on the north end of Waikiki, this is a favorite hangout for local residents and employees of area hotels and restaurants. The few members of Honolulu's bohemian community also occasionally pop by for a late night snack and conversation. The omelets are great, as are the crepes and pancakes. Note that alcohol is not served. ...more

Make your holiday a time to relax and rejuvenate—head to Mandara Spa in the Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort & Spa. Touted as the largest spa in Waikiki, it combines Hawaiian, Asian, Western, European and Polynesian techniques to ease off those tired muscles and leave you feeling beautiful. A Balinese service, with Asian spices and oils, make the massages and wraps all the more exotic. A state-of-the-art fitness center caters to workout nuts, and is equipped with cardiovascular gear, while the sauna, whirlpools, terrace and outdoor swimming pool allow for some leisurely relaxation. The Ola Pono Spa Café is right there, with a plethora of healthy meals, when the tummy calls. When here, the Exploration in Chocolate session for two is a must-try! ...more

Hosted by a few of Honolulu's best chefs, this restaurant opens only after these chefs' own kitchens shut for the day. Because Side Street Inn is located on the busy industrial side of town, it's a bit on the pricey side but well worth it. Contrary to what you would expect the food is delicious and they serve big portions, although it's high in calories, the people love it and that's why its sometimes hard to get a seat in the always packed restaurant. Another definite reason to stop by is the commendable service. Side Street Inn even has Karaoke nights and television sets for the sports fans, so go on and enjoy the local Hawaiian culture. ...more

Enjoy the sights, sounds and sensations of the O'ahu coastline on this tour company's luxury ships, the Starlet I & II and the Star of Honolulu. The Diamond Head Odyssey Cruise is appropriate for families. The half-day cruise takes passengers to the bay by Diamond Head, where they can snorkel with sea turtles, float on rafts, sunbathe on the deck, or waterslide into the ocean. This cruise costs USD50 for each adult, not including transportation. The Sunset Grill Cruise departs at sunset, and includes dinner and live entertainment. It is USD32 per adult, and lasts for two hours. ...more

Once a small, rustic, one-story building dwarfed by large warehouses in an industrial neighborhood, Big Kahuna Pizzas was hidden in the middle of a concrete jungle. A lane-widening project led to the demolition of their original home in the summer of 2007. It is now located in the Airport Trade Center (which is easier to find) and better than ever thanks to an expanded menu. In addition to a wide variety of both traditional and unique pizza toppings and sauces, they offer two absolutely huge sandwiches. Each one stands about 4-5 inches tall and is 8-9" wide. Granted, it's mostly a thick circular bun, but it is extremely filling. Pizzas on the other hand tend to run a little small (for the price) but the flavors help redeem that slight downside. All in all Da Big Kahuna is not your usual pizza place. -Rex Davidson ...more

Good cheap Vietnamese keeps people coming back for more at this eatery. Although primarily noted for its seafood, this place prepares many inventive Vietnamese dishes you won't find elsewhere. The poached Hong Kong-style Kahuku shrimp is delectable. Many lunch items are served during breakfast hours (8a-11a). Clean, simple, and unassuming, this eatery is appropriate for a family meal out, a casual date, or a mid-afternoon snack. Bow-tied waiters provide gracious, attentive service. ...more

Usually associated only with seaside fun, Hawaii also has lots to offer in terms of art and aesthetics. A part of the Hawai'i State Foundation on Culture and the Arts, the HiSAM urges you to explore works of talent created within this gorgeous state. Located in beautiful Honolulu, the museum has three galleries, a resource room, a cafe, a gift shop and an information stand to its credit. Soak in not just the sun, but the culture, tradition and heritage captured by local artists in their works. Check the website for ongoing exhibitions and collections. ...more

The most elegant restaurant in the colorful Chinatown district, this place features a creative mix of traditional Asian and avant garden European cuisine. On the vast, pricey and impressive menu, diners will find everything from potstickers to pizza and pasta. Dim sum, Asian noodle dishes, wok-charred fish and Mongolian Lamb Chops are among the many choices. The wine list offers vintages from every part of the world. Patrons claim this is one of the best bars in Honolulu thanks to good food, great drinks, and Friday night festivities. This internationally renowned eatery offers a true multi-cultural dining experience. Hawaiian theater performances take place on Friday and Saturday. ...more

For a brief hiatus from city life, duck into this garden. It is the oldest of the five Honolulu Botanical Gardens. The mission of the organization is "to plan, develop, curate, maintain and study documented collections of tropical plants in an aesthetic setting." Highlights include a palm collection, Lyon Orchid Garden, a prehistoric glen and a number of trees rated "exceptional" for their beauty and rarity. Pick up a souvenir at the Foster Garden Gallery and Bookshop. General admission is USD5. ...more

For a novel experience, try the automated sushi service here; it is always a winner with the in-a-hurry lunch crowd. The fish is generally fresh and good quality, although the presentation is unremarkable. Sushi is shuttled down a conveyer belt to the first taker. The menu also features standard cooked Japanese items. Service is quick and efficient, but plan on a noisy, crowded dining experience. This restaurant attracts all kinds of people. ...more