With its diverse culture and claim to fame as one of the healthiest places to live in America, Honolulu is a great place to call home. Although life isn’t all surfing and sunshine, visitors and locals alike can experience all of the benefits of a booming metropolis amid envy-inducing beaches and the aloha spirit.
In other words, it wasn’t too hard to find places to while away the hours this summer. We partnered with Crocs to find the loveliest summer activities, whether you want take in the views, lie around on the beach, or experience Honolulu’s burgeoning fine-dining scene.
Best Outdoor Dining
Orchids at Halekulani
This gorgeous Waikiki restaurant is known for its Sunday brunch and oceanfront view. Try the banana and macadamia nut pancakes.
Beto's Tacos & Platos
If you want to grab a quick bite before going out, this super-popular Kailua taco truck will hit the spot. It's open Thursday-Saturday, from 7 p.m. to 3 a.m., and it's conveniently located just a few steps away from beloved dive bar Creekside. After a short wait in line, you'll find all of the tacos, burritos, and tortas that your heart (and stomach) desires.
Best Outdoor Performance Venue
Waikiki Shell
Charmingly, Waikiki Shell looks like a seashell from afar and is set against the backdrop of Diamond Head, one of Hawaii's most famous volcanic landmarks. The outdoor music venue is located in Kapiolani Park and plays host to the reggae-oriented Mayjah Rayjah Music Festival on July 24 and July 25, among other events.
Best Place To Have Fun By Foot
Kaka’ako Waterfront Park
This 35-acre park in Honolulu is also called Point Panic Beach Park, which is a reference to the bodysurfing site on its east end. This scenic lookout point is popular for diving, but you can also just bring a picnic, walk around, and enjoy the view.
Best Outdoor Nightlife
Banyan Court at the Moana Surfrider
If you’re looking for a low-key night, Banyan Court will be just your speed. The open-air bar, located right on Waikiki Beach, has a spectacular view of Diamond Head. Plus, during the evenings, you can enjoy live music and hula dancing.
Best Outdoor Festivals
Kapi’olani Community College Farmers Market
This farmers market takes place on Tuesdays and Saturdays at Kapi'olani Community College. Amid the hordes you’ll find great local food from super-popular seafood vendor Kona Abalone as well as organic treats from Ono Popsicle.
Mo’ili’ili Summer Fest
This community event will take place on July 3, 2015, in its eclectic namesake city. You can shop, get some grub (bring cash!), and witness Honolulu’s largest bon dance (a traditional Japanese dance).
Best Place To Cool Off
Kaimana Beach
If you want to cool off, you happily have a lot of options in Honolulu. Kaimana Beach, located adjacent to the Kaimana New Otani Hotel, is a little less touristy than Waikiki Beach proper. Rent a paddleboard or bring a barbecue grill if you’re not the sitting-and-sunning type.
Best View
Pu'u Ualaka'a State Park
This 1,048-foot hill offers you awesome views of the Oahu South Shore amid peaceful surroundings. The drive up to Pu'u Ualaka'a State Park is a little winding, but it’s worth it. To get the full experience, pack a picnic.
This post is sponsored by Crocs.
Images: Allen G./Fotolia, Facebook, hibreeee/Instagram, danramarch/Flickr, 75348994@N00/Flickr, fiskadoro/Flickr
