Romantic Restaurants, Getaway Places in Oahu

"If you’re looking for less upscale and more Hawaiian cool, Duke’s Waikiki might hit the spot. Duke’s has a gorgeous view of the bay and serves some of the most beloved food in town at a reasonable price. Seasonal fish, perfectly cooked steaks, and succulent prime ribs take center stage in a menu that packs a lot of spice."

"A couple of our favorite Waikiki lunch spots with great ocean views are Hula Grill, Duke’s Waikiki, and Tropics Bar and Grill for casual fare. For a bit more of an upscale lunch with an ocean view, we like Veranda at the Beachhouse and House without a Key."

"Featuring live music, hula dancing, and a signature Mai Tai, House Without a Key offers a tranquil dining experience with incredible ambiance. The restaurant and its splendid ocean view from beneath a 100-year old Kiawe tree served as the inspiration for a 1925 Earl Derr Biggers novel that spawned two film adaptations. The menu focuses on an upscale barbecue, highlighted by fresh fish and lots of bold Hawaiian flavors."

"A classic bar and seafood based restaurant situated in the Halekulani hotel. They are most noted for their spectacular sunset viewing arrangement and also the food. The live music is also quite enticing because of its quality."

"Kayaking to the Mokulua Islands is a fun adventure. To learn about the cultures of the Polynesian Islands, spend the day at the Polynesian Cultural Center. The island villages and presentations start at noon. You could stay through the day exploring the villages, enjoy a luau and then catch the excellent evening show Ha: Breath of Life."

"The Mokes, as the locals refer to it, is a phenomenal destination to visit. It is a mile and a half away from the Kailua Beach Park off the Oahu's shore. Na Mokulua, meaning, The Twin Islands are a pair of small islets - Moku Nui and Moku Iki."

"Kailua Beach Park combines everything you are looking for in best beaches in Oahu into one spot. Located on the eastern or windward side of Oahu, Kailua Beach Park is situated within 35-acres and has a long 2.5-mile stretch of white sand which is dotted with several ironwood and coconut palm trees for shade. Kailua Beach Park is ideal for families and the water is usually calm enough for good swimming."

"Just up the road is another one of the most popular Instagram spots on all of Oahu; Kaiula Beach Park. Drive safely, as the road will take you up a scenic drive with views of the most inviting beach you’ve ever laid eyes on. Not becoming distracted by the siren call of Eden out your window will be one of the most difficult things you will have to do during your time on Oahu!"

"This is a great family beach with plenty of shaded areas that make great places to take a break from the fun. There are also picnic tables, lots of parking space, and even a cafe if you get thirsty or hungry. The sand here is absolutely fantastic in color- a perfect gold- and the deep blue waters compliment it perfectly."

"Park Description and Highlights: This forested area in Aiea is home to the Keaiwa Heiau, hiking trails, picnic areas, and campsites. Situated in a residential neighborhood, it’s most used by local residents. Suggested Visit: The ‘Aiea Loop Trail."

"In one day, you can drive this 100-mile path with some beach hopping, but you might have to cherry-pick between the longer activities like the hike, Waimea Valley and the Polynesian Cultural Center if you don’t want to feel rushed. Depart early from Honolulu for your drive north through the farmlands and mountain views of the center of the island, to stretches of empty beachfront and the northwest terminus of the highway at Kaena Point. If you want to do some hiking, the Kaena Point Trail is a 3.5-mile, out-and-back path from the end of the road to the remote western point of the island inaccessible to vehicles."

"Tour Waimea Valley where you can learn about Hawaiian culture, admire a beautiful variety of trees, shrubs and plants and enjoy a swim at a waterfall. (See this link for TripAdvisor reviews of Waimea Valley.)"

"This place is a Korean karaoke bar that has a lot of soju options and is tolerant of people being pants-shittingly drunk. Come here after you’re done downtown or Waikiki and try some watermelon soju that’s served in an actual watermelon (just don’t try to eat the watermelon, they reuse them. I know, gross). You can also try to rent a karaoke room but unless you’re Korean or know somebody there that’s next to impossible."

"Modo Hawai’i is located in the Mitsuwa Marketplace on the second floor of the International Marketplace, Waikiki. Mochi donuts are hard to find in the U.S, but are widespread in Hawaii. Mochi donuts are a bit chewier than regular donuts, but are still delicious!"