Stephrey's Top 10: Oahu

1. Try Spam - especially warm. There is a lot of history with this food in Hawaii, it consumes the most Spam in the world and is carved into the history and heritage of the area - definitely worth a taste test. 
2. Circle Island Tour - this bus trip takes you around the whole island with stops and shops at ​the Dole Plantation, Farmers Markets, coffee/ macadamia nut tastings, sea turtle viewpoints etc. It's quick stops at all places, but makes for a fun day. Definitely buy tickets online to save a few bucks! 
   
3.  Make reservations - it gets pretty busy for dinners if you are in a group over 2. I would recommend making reservations at popular spots to avoid waiting/ wandering for food.
4. Hike Diamond Head - you need to make an online booking, with a fee associated with it ($5 USD per person), but it is definitely worth the trip. If you have a steady pace it's 45minutes up with views all along the way. It is a busy destination, and therefore would recommend an early/ or later booking to avoid a rush or the heat. 
5. Pearl Harbor - I would recommend booking this one with a concierge if you have the option as there are a number of different choices and can be tricky to navigate. We opted for an organized tour leaving in the morning, and returning at noon to specifically visit the USS Arizona memorial. The guide provided history on the ride to the memorial site, and we viewed the premises and information areas while there. Ensure you are aware and thoughtful of the strict rules about phone use, photo taking, and overall demeanor to maintain respect. Finally, you cannot take bags unless they are clear, but you can check them at a locker for $7 USD.
6. Boat Ride - we didn't do this, but I wish we did! It's always fun to head out on a boat and there are loads of options for sunset trips/ whale watching/ glass bottom, etc. it seems like a novelty, but I find it's always a highlight when you're out on the water. 
7. Shops - even if you are not there to buy, there is fantastic window shopping on Waikiki. As we were there during the holidays, the shops were decked out in Christmas décor and ornaments. Plus, the stores are open air and make for a nice walk. 
8. Waikiki Farmers Market - be sure to check the dates and times, but while we visited this market was on Monday + Wednesday from 4:00pm - 8:00pm. There were baked goods (banana bread and Malasadas (Hawaiian donuts!)), jewelry, fresh fruit (coconuts for drinking), artwork, coffee, and even more. It's a great place to peruse and a nice way to support local artisans! 
9. Beach - this is a no brainer, but make sure you head down to the beaches where you can reserve a space (i.e., buy a chair and umbrella), also any spot by the Moana Surfrider is perfect. The sand is soft, there are no rocks, and it's right by a foot wash station and washroom.  If you want something quieter, you will definitely want to leave Waikiki. 
10. Trolleys - because Waikiki is central, it's walkable - you do not need a vehicle, but a good way to get around and see some sites outside of the main drag are through the Waikiki Trolley System - you can hop on, off, and they provide tours along a number of different routes. Each route ranges from 30min to 2hours in their open air vehicles - we really liked the "Green Line" which took you through the suburban areas and business district.