When it comes to beloved vacation destinations, Hawaii has long held a special place in the collective imagination. And for those who’ve had the good fortune to experience the Islands of Aloha firsthand, it’s easy to understand why. Far from your typical beach destination, Hawaii offers so much more than just a holiday in the sun — though if sun is what you’re seeking here, you won’t be disappointed.
Imbued with mana (spiritual energy) and the welcoming spirit of aloha, Hawaii has captured the hearts of generations of visitors with its cosmopolitan cities, unspoiled landscapes, ancient Polynesian history, and distinct brand of cultural fusion. In such a richly varied and multifaceted destination, deciding where to begin your journey can sometimes be a challenge, which is why we’ve rounded up some of our top travel tips for visitors to Hawaii in 2024.
Feeling the call of an island adventure this year? Read on for our guide to planning the ultimate getaway on O‘ahu.
When is the Best Time to Visit Hawaii?
Turquoise waters, plunging sea cliffs, towering waterfalls, and tranquil beaches — there’s a reason the Hawaiian Islands have been dubbed the Paradise of the Pacific. Blessed with perennial warm weather and pleasant temperatures ranging from 74°F to 86°F (23°C to 30°C), Hawaii is a true year-round destination.
When it comes to choosing the best time for a visit, it really depends on what you’d like to do while you’re here. The islands see their lightest rain and warmest temperatures between March and September — though even in the wetter months, Honolulu remains something of a sunseeker’s paradise thanks to its sheltered location on O‘ahu’s south shore. The early months of the year, between January and March, are considered peak whale-watching season, while October through April is beloved by surfers hoping to catch that perfect wave.
What are the Best Things to See and Do in Honolulu?
The state capital and largest city in Hawaii, vibrant Honolulu is teeming with can’t-miss attractions and extraordinary island experiences — and nowhere more so than in the city’s most iconic neighborhood, Waikiki. The birthplace of modern surfing, Waikiki boasts world-class shopping and dining, along with one of the most recognizable stretches of sand on earth: world-famous Waikiki Beach. It’s the perfect place to soak up the sun, sip on a Mai Tai, or find your balance on a surfboard (the calm waters here are ideal for first-time surfers).
Of course, there’s much more to experience on O‘ahu than just a day at the beach. History buffs can enjoy the royal treatment with a tour of ʻIolani Palace, the one-time home of Hawaii’s Kalākaua dynasty and the only royal palace on American soil. Culinary adventurers will delight in sampling authentic local dishes, from kalua pig and spam musubi to haupia pie and Hawaii’s favorite sweet treat: shave ice.
And for golfers looking to enjoy a round or two in paradise, Hawaii Prince Golf Course offers spectacular gameplay with preferred rates for guests of Prince Waikiki. Acclaimed as one of O‘ahu’s best golf courses, the 270-acre, 27-hole course offers three interchangeable nines you can customize to your preferences and skill level. Here, the sunny skies, pristine lakes, and dazzling green hills of the Ewa Plain are framed by views of the rain-carved Waiʻanae Mountains for a true paradise experience. And at just a half hour’s travel time from downtown Honolulu, you can go from the links to the pool or beach with ease.
Your Haven in the Heart of it All
Waikiki’s only all-oceanview hotel, Prince Waikiki offers the ultimate home base for your O‘ahu adventures. Spacious oceanfront rooms and suites boast floor-to-ceiling windows with sweeping views of Ala Wai Harbor and the Kahanamoku Lagoon below. Find a sweet escape on our pool deck lounging in a private cabana, or luxuriate on the soft white sands of Waikiki Beach, just a short stroll away.
Curated on-property dining experiences let you sip and savor your way through some of the Aloha State’s most delightful flavors, from Golden Hour bites and cocktails at 100 Sails Restaurant & Bar to inspired sea-to-table sushi at Katsumidori. And if you have an appetite for culinary adventure, our central location in the heart of Waikiki puts you steps away from some of Honolulu’s most celebrated watering holes and craveable eats. Plus, with a range of special offers, vacation packages, and our exclusive Prince Preferred loyalty program, you can make the most of your Prince Waikiki getaway with reduced rates, dining credits, and more.
Hawaii is Always a Good Idea
With so many incredible things to see, do, and discover here on one-of-a-kind O‘ahu, it’s easy to get lost in daydreams of aloha. So why not make those dreams a reality in 2024? Answer the call of island adventure and start planning your ultimate Hawaiian getaway at Prince Waikiki today!
