When you booked your vacation to Waikiki, you probably imagined snorkeling in Hawaii’s sparkling blue water. At Waikiki Banyan, many of our units offer a full range of beach and snorkel gear so that you don’t waste any time making your way to the beach. Grab a towel and your goggles and head to one of Oahu’s many snorkeling spots where you’ll encounter fish, coral reefs, and maybe even a sea turtle. Here are a few of our favorite snorkeling locations:
Hanauma Bay
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is a famous snorkeling destination known for its clear waters, vibrant marine life, and calm conditions. It’s a protected marine conservation area and offers an abundance of colorful fish, coral reefs, and even the occasional sea turtle. Due to its popularity, it’s essential to arrive early to secure parking and avoid overcrowding, as visitor numbers are limited.
Waikiki Beach
Just a short walk from your vacation rental at Waikiki Banyan, Waikiki Beach is convenient for those looking for a quick snorkel without traveling far. While Waikiki Beach is primarily known for its sandy shores and iconic surf spots, it also offers decent snorkeling opportunities, especially around the rocky areas near the edges of the beach. While the visibility may not always be as clear as some other spots, you can still encounter various fish species and small marine creatures.
Kaiona Beach Park
Although not as well-known as Hanauma Bay or Waikiki Beach, Kaiona Beach Park, located on the southeastern shore of Oahu, offers excellent snorkeling conditions. The reef is relatively shallow and close to shore, making it perfect for snorkelers of all skill levels. It’s less crowded compared to some of the more popular spots, providing a more serene snorkeling experience. You may encounter sea turtles, colorful fish, and various types of coral while exploring the waters here.
Remember to always practice responsible snorkeling behavior, such as respecting marine life and reef ecosystems, wearing reef-safe sunscreen, and avoiding standing on or touching coral. Additionally, be mindful of local weather and ocean conditions for a safe and enjoyable snorkeling experience.
Honolulu is not only famous for its superb beaches and shopping, but also for its diverse culinary scene. Among the many dining options in this tropical paradise, food trucks offer a convenient and flavorful way to experience the local cuisine. Here are five popular food trucks in Honolulu and around the island that are sure to tantalize your taste buds with their unique offerings and island-inspired flavors:
Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck
Known for its garlic shrimp plates, Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck is a beloved food truck that offers delicious Hawaiian-style shrimp dishes, including their infamous shrimp scampi and hot & spicy shrimp. You can find them at three locations: Kahuku, Haleiwa, and Honolulu. The Honolulu location is on Keawe St, just a couple blocks away from Waikiki.
Five Star Poke
This food truck specializes in fresh poke bowls, a traditional Hawaiian dish made with raw fish, rice, and various toppings. Their ahi and abalone are locally caught and always fresh, plus they make all their poke sauces from scratch. You can find Five Star Poke at 206 Kapuni Street in Waikiki.
Hula Dog
Hula Dog offers a unique twist on the traditional hot dog, serving up Hawaiian-style hot dogs in sweet bread with a variety of tropical relishes and sauces. It’s a fun and flavorful option for those looking for something different. They are located next to 24 Hour Fitness on Kapiolani Blvd (near the Hawaii Convention Center).
Laverne’s
Located about 30 minutes from Waikiki in Waipahu, Hawaii, Laverne’s is a popular food truck renowned for its delicious and authentic Hawaiian cuisine. Dishes such as kalua pork, lau lau, and lomi salmon, will give you a taste of authentic island flavors.
Mike’s Huli Chicken
Mike’s Huli Chicken is a renowned food truck located on the Kahuku North Shore. Specializing in mouthwatering Hawaiian-style rotisserie chicken, Mike’s infuses their signature huli huli sauce for a deliciously flavorful experience. You can even buy their rub and dipping sauce as a souvenir.
Ready for a foodie vacation?
When you stay at Waikiki Banyan, you’re not only close to restaurants and food trucks in Waikiki but we also offer free parking so you can easily plan excursions to visit some of the highest rated menus on the island. Reserve one of our condos and start planning for an epic culinary adventure!
Traveling to Waikiki in April? Don’t miss these events!
As Spring unfolds, Hawaii comes alive with an array of exciting events and festivals, offering visitors a taste of the island’s unique charm and hospitality. Whether you’re a food enthusiast, art aficionado, or nature lover, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Waikiki this April. Here are a few of our picks for April 2024 events in and near Waikiki:
Mineral Show Hawaii (April 6th – 7th, 2024)
The Mineral Show Hawaii, hosted by the Hawaii Mineral Society, is a captivating event for rock and mineral enthusiasts of all ages. Held at Kou Ballroom at the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Hotel, this annual show features stunning displays of rare gems, fossils, and minerals from around the world. Visitors can explore exhibits showcasing the beauty and diversity of Earth’s geological treasures, learn from expert speakers, and even purchase unique specimens to add to their own collections. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or simply fascinated by the natural world, the Mineral Show Hawaii offers a fascinating journey into the wonders of geology.
Foodie Con and Spring Expo 2024 (April 13th – 14th, 2024)
The Foodie Con and Spring Expo 2024 is a premier event for food enthusiasts and industry professionals alike. Held at the Blaisdell Center, this expo showcases a wide array of culinary delights, including gourmet foods, specialty drinks, cooking demonstrations, and more. Visitors can explore diverse flavors, learn from top chefs, and discover the latest trends in the food and beverage industry. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply curious about the culinary world, this expo offers something for everyone to savor and enjoy.
Heart of Honolulu Festival (April 13th, 2024)
The Heart of Honolulu Festival is a vibrant celebration of arts, culture, and community in downtown Honolulu. This annual event brings together local artists, performers, and businesses to showcase the creative spirit of the city. Visitors can enjoy live music and dance performances, browse art exhibits and artisanal crafts, and sample delicious cuisine from diverse cultures. With its lively atmosphere and diverse offerings, the Heart of Honolulu Festival is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the vibrant heart of the city.
Waikiki Spam Jam (April 27th,2024)
The Waikiki Spam Jam is a vibrant festival celebrating Hawaii’s love affair with Spam, a beloved food in the islands. Held annually in Waikiki, the event features live entertainment, delicious food vendors offering creative Spam-inspired dishes, and a variety of arts and crafts booths. It’s a fun-filled celebration of Hawaiian culture and culinary creativity, attracting locals and visitors alike to indulge in all things Spam.
Book your Waikiki rental today
If you’re looking for the perfect accommodations to attend any of these or future events, the Waikiki Banyan condos offer the comforts of home while centrally located to all the happenings and sights of the area. Reserve your rental today and celebrate with us this Spring!
It’s Time to Book Your Waikiki Summer Rental!
Choosing Waikiki for a family summer vacation has many benefits. Nestled on the south shore of the beautiful island of Oahu, Waikiki is a vibrant and welcoming destination renowned for its stunning beaches, rich cultural heritage, and diverse array of activities suitable for visitors of all ages. With its perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion, Waikiki promises an unforgettable experience for families seeking to create cherished memories together in paradise.
Beautiful Beaches
Waikiki is renowned for its stunning beaches with soft sands and crystal-clear waters, providing an ideal environment for families to relax, swim, and play. Plus, Waikiki Banyan is just one block from Waikiki Beach!
Family-Friendly Activities
From snorkeling and surfing lessons to submarine tours and catamaran cruises, Waikiki offers a wide range of family-friendly activities that cater to all ages and interests.
Cultural Experiences
Families can immerse themselves in Hawaiian culture by attending traditional luaus, hula performances, and exploring historical sites such as the Pearl Harbor Memorial.
Kid-Friendly Attractions
Waikiki boasts numerous attractions tailored to children, including the Honolulu Zoo, Waikiki Aquarium, as well as interactive museums like the Children’s Discovery Center, providing educational and entertaining experiences for the whole family.
Safe Environment
Waikiki is generally considered a safe destination for families, with well-maintained public areas, lifeguard-monitored beaches, and a low crime rate, ensuring peace of mind during your vacation.
Diverse Dining Options
From casual beachside cafes and food trucks to upscale restaurants, Waikiki offers a diverse culinary scene with plenty of options to suit every palate and budget, including many family-friendly eateries.
Scenic Beauty
Beyond its beaches, Waikiki is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, including lush tropical landscapes, volcanic craters, and scenic lookout points like Diamond Head Crater. These backdrops are perfect for family exploration, as well as your next Holiday card photo!
Warm Weather
Hawaii’s tropical climate ensures warm temperatures year-round, making Waikiki an ideal summer destination for families seeking sunshine and outdoor adventures.
Memorable Experiences
Whether it’s watching a mesmerizing sunset, learning to surf together, or simply enjoying quality time as a family in paradise, Waikiki offers countless opportunities to create lasting memories that your family will cherish for years to come.
Book on WaikikiBanyan.com!
Booking a Waikiki rental property for your summer vacation will elevate your experience even further. Our properties offer spacious accommodations, kitchen facilities for convenient meal preparation, and the flexibility to tailor your stay to your family’s needs. Plus, staying in a vacation rental allows you to immerse yourselves in the local community and enjoy the comforts of a home away from home while exploring all that Waikiki has to offer. Browse our listings to find the perfect condo for your family getaway.
We read an interesting article on Beat of Hawaii this week, covering plans to introduce a state visitor app in hopes to manage tourism. The app would implement pre-paid reservations for beach and park access using a tourist registration system for local hot spots that is inspired by the Disneyland app.
Treating Hawaii like the Magic Kingdom
Aimed at addressing overcrowding and preserving the natural beauty of Hawaii’s landscapes, the proposed system would require visitors to book their spots in advance, paying a fee to secure access to popular sites. This initiative intends to regulate tourism flow, minimizing environmental degradation, and ensuring a more enjoyable experience for both visitors and locals alike. However, concerns are raised regarding the potential impacts on accessibility and affordability, as well as the feasibility of implementing such a system effectively across all the islands.
As we know, managing tourism sustainably in Hawaii is complex, balancing economic benefits with environmental conservation and community well-being. While the pre-paid reservation system may offer a solution to over-tourism, its success depends on careful planning and collaboration between government agencies, tourism stakeholders, and local communities. We hope they can consider a holistic approach that considers various factors, including infrastructure development, cultural preservation, and visitor education, to create a more resilient and responsible tourism model for Hawaii’s future.
What do you think?
If approved and created, it will certainly be an important topic for guests of Waikiki Banyan! As owners and property managers, we will look to provide guests of our Waikiki rentals with the information they need to download and utilize the app during their vacation.
Mother’s Day is a special occasion to honor the incredible women in our lives who have nurtured, guided, and loved us unconditionally. What better way to show appreciation than by treating your mom to a memorable vacation to the tropical paradise of Waikiki, Hawaii? With its stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture, Waikiki offers many delightful opportunities to create cherished moments with your mom:
Spend the day at Waikiki Beach
At Waikiki Banyan, our vacation rentals are one block from Waikiki Beach! Start the day by soaking up the sun and enjoying the serene beauty of Waikiki’s most famous beach. Whether it’s lounging on the soft sands or taking a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, spending quality time by the ocean is a wonderful way to unwind and connect with your mom.
Treat Her to a Spa Day
Treat your mom to a luxurious spa experience where she can indulge in treatments and rejuvenating massages. Many spas in Waikiki offer special Mother’s Day packages that include facials, body scrubs, and other relaxing services, allowing your mom to unwind and feel truly pampered.
Take a Sunset Cruise
Embark on a sunset cruise along the picturesque coast of Waikiki for a truly magical experience. Toast to your mom with a glass of champagne as you admire the vibrant hues of the sunset painting the sky, creating a perfect backdrop for a “selfie” and creating a lasting memory together.
Treat Her to Fine Dining
Waikiki boasts an array of world-class restaurants offering delectable cuisine, often with breathtaking ocean views! Treat your mom to a meal at one of the local beachfront eateries, where you can savor fresh seafood and tropical cocktails. Some of our favorites include Duke’s, Hula Grill, and Morimoto Asia!
Attend a Lei Making Workshop
Immerse yourselves in Hawaiian culture by participating in a lei making workshop together. Learn the art of creating beautiful floral garlands using fresh flowers and foliage, and craft a unique lei as a heartfelt gift for your mom to cherish as a symbol of your love and appreciation.
Hike to Diamond Head
For the adventurous mom, embark on a hike to the summit of Diamond Head, an iconic volcanic crater offering panoramic views of Waikiki and the surrounding coastline. Trekking through lush vegetation and rugged terrain, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking vistas and enough calories burned to enjoy that second mai tai!
Spend the Afternoon Shopping
Take your mom on a shopping spree along Kalakaua Avenue, Waikiki’s premier shopping district lined with an eclectic mix of boutiques, designer stores, and souvenir shops. Treat her to a special gift or memento to commemorate your Mother’s Day celebration in paradise, such as pearl jewelry, specialty grocery items like Kona coffee or macadamia nut chocolate, or Hawaiian-print clothing.
Book Your Stay with Us
Mother’s Day in Waikiki offers a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences, providing the ideal setting to show your mom just how much she means to you. Whether you’re lounging on the beach, indulging in spa treatments, or exploring the natural beauty of the island, each moment shared with your mom in Waikiki is sure to be filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories that will last a lifetime. Ready to plan your trip? Stay with us at Waikiki Banyan and you will be located in the heart of the city, making it easy to plan your favorite activities. Plus, staying at a vacation rental in Waikiki means that you will have all the amenities of home — just like mom would have it!
Are you planning your next getaway to the paradise of Waikiki? As you prepare for your Hawaiian adventure, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is where to stay. While hotels have long been the traditional choice for accommodations, vacation rentals are increasingly becoming the preferred option for travelers seeking a more personalized and immersive experience. At the Waikiki Banyan, we want to make you feel at home in Hawaii with these benefits of staying at a vacation rental:
1. Space and Privacy
One of the most significant advantages of choosing a vacation rental like Waikiki Banyan over a hotel room is the extra space and privacy it offers. Our property provides guests with their choice of suites that include separate living areas, fully equipped kitchens, and private lanais boasting breathtaking views of the city and ocean. Say hello to the freedom to spread out and truly unwind in your own personal oasis.
2. Home Away from Home
Vacation rentals allow you to experience the destination like a local, offering all the comforts and conveniences of home. At Waikiki Banyan, units are well equipped for any adventure you might take during your stay. Some of these many items include: beach cooler, beach towels, pool toys, equipment, boogie boards, amazing backpack style beach chairs, sand toys and snorkel gear. We also provide board games and high quality linens…something you won’t find in other vacation rentals! With the ability to cook your own meals, do your laundry, and relax in a cozy living space, you’ll feel right at home from the moment you arrive.
3. Flexibility and Freedom
Unlike hotels, which often have limited flexibility, vacation rentals offer a greater degree of freedom to spend your vacation how you choose. At Waikiki Banyan, guests have the freedom to come and go as they please with free parking, and are close to everything Waikiki has to offer. Whether you prefer to sleep in and enjoy a leisurely breakfast on your lanai or spend the day exploring the island’s stunning beaches and attractions, the choice is yours.
4. Value for Money
Believe it or not, vacation rentals in Waikiki can often be more cost-effective than traditional hotel stays, especially for families or larger groups. With amenities like a fully equipped kitchen, separate bedrooms, and complimentary parking included in the price of your stay at Waikiki Banyan, you’ll enjoy incredible value for your money without sacrificing comfort or luxury.
Experience the Difference
When it comes to choosing accommodations for your next vacation, why settle for a cookie-cutter hotel room when you can experience the luxury and comfort of a vacation rental like Waikiki Banyan? With spacious units, top-notch amenities, and unparalleled service, our property offers everything you need for an unforgettable Hawaiian getaway. So go ahead, indulge in the ultimate vacation experience and make memories that will last a lifetime. Book today!
Visits to Waikiki and Honolulu are a symphony of sun-kissed days, turquoise waters, and endless adventure. Whether you’re a laid-back beach lover or a thrill-seeking explorer, this tropical paradise offers something for everyone. And what better way to experience the magic of Oahu’s south shore than by staying at the centrally located Waikiki Banyan condo? Just a block away from the iconic Waikiki Beach, this vacation property provides the perfect home base for your Hawaiian getaway.
Here are a few of our favorite activities to indulge in while staying at Waikiki Banyan:
1. Have Some Beach Fun at Waikiki Beach
Waikiki Beach is synonymous with paradise, boasting golden sands, gentle waves, and stunning views of Diamond Head. Dive into the sparkling waters for a refreshing swim, or try your hand at surfing with lessons from local experts. With its lively atmosphere and picture-perfect setting, Waikiki Beach invites you to soak up the sun and savor the island vibe.
2. Hike Diamond Head Crater
For a breathtaking panorama of Honolulu and the Pacific Ocean, embark on a hike up Diamond Head Crater. This moderate trail leads you through tunnels and up staircases to the summit, where you’ll be rewarded with awe-inspiring vistas. This iconic landmark offers an unforgettable adventure and is a must-do for nature enthusiasts and photography buffs alike.
3. Snorkeling at Hanauma Bay
For an unforgettable underwater adventure, take the family snorkeling at Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve. This stunning marine sanctuary, located just a short drive from Waikiki, boasts crystal-clear waters teeming with colorful coral reefs and tropical fish. Strap on your snorkel gear and glide through the warm, shallow waters, where you’ll encounter a kaleidoscope of marine life, including vibrant parrotfish, graceful sea turtles, and elusive octopuses. Hanauma Bay’s calm, protected cove makes it an ideal spot for snorkelers of all skill levels, including kids.
4. Sampling Local Cuisine at Honolulu’s Best Restaurants and Food Trucks
Treat your taste buds to a culinary journey through Honolulu’s vibrant restaurant and food truck scene. From fresh poke bowls to mouthwatering shave ice, an endless number of eateries offer a delicious array of Hawaiian flavors. Don’t miss out on classics like garlic shrimp plates and kalua pork sandwiches, and be sure to try some refreshing coconut water straight from the source.
5. Sunset Sail along the Coast
End your day in paradise with a sunset sail along the scenic coastline of Waikiki and Honolulu. Feel the ocean breeze on your face as you glide across turquoise waters, sipping on cocktails and watching the sky ignite with hues of orange and pink. This magical experience is the perfect way to unwind and create lasting memories with loved ones.
Your Home Away from Home: Waikiki Banyan
After a day of adventure and exploration, retreat to the comfort and convenience of Waikiki Banyan. Our Honolulu condo rentals provide all the amenities you need for a relaxing stay, including fully equipped kitchens, spacious living areas, and private lanais with stunning views. As an added bonus, our units are well equipped for any adventure you might take during your stay, such as beach towels, pool toys, boogie boards, and more.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience the best of Waikiki and Honolulu this year. Book your vacation property in Waikiki at Waikiki Banyan today and make unforgettable memories in paradise. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, our condo rentals offer the perfect blend of comfort and convenience for your Hawaiian escape.
Experience the magic of Waikiki Banyan and discover the beauty of Oahu’s south shore. Book your stay now and make the most of your vacation in paradise!