Experience Hawaii’s Cuisine

To experience Hawaii’s cuisine is to experience Hawaii’s culture. People from different countries, cultures, and religions fill our world. However, one universal bridge ties us all together. The universal bridges is food.  Food fills bellies and imparts a feeling of nourishment upon us all.  Furthermore, food crosses language barriers and opens hearts.

Local Grinds

The cuisine of Hawaii is also referred to as local grinds. Our local grinds continue to evolve with influence from chefs from all over the world. Micro farms and aqua culture farmers deliver fresh and unique island foods daily. The island foods provide a true farm to table experience with a fusion blend to tantalize the taste buds. The selection of restaurants represents the cultural diversity found in Hawaii. Enjoy beautiful views, beach side locations, romantic and fun ambiances, lovely and elegant settings, creative and innovative menus, and great food from Hawaii’s restaurants that accommodate all price points.

Experience Hawaii’s cuisine is to experience Hawaii’s culture. Pictured are four rice bowls decorated with locally caught poke, farm fresh vegetables, and crispy wanton.

Taste some of Hawaii’s favorite ono delicious foods including Kailua pig wrapped in ti leaves cooked in an underground imu oven. Try some fresh cubed fish known as poke served in with variety of sauces and seasonings.  Yearning for some fast food Hawaii style then go for a bowl of Saimin. Saimin is an inexpensive broth with noodles similar to Japanese ramen.  Eat your Saimin with chopsticks and then pick up the bowl and drink the broth.  Subsequently, on the sweeter side, indulge in a malasadas deep-fried dough rolled in sugar best eaten warm.  Finally, dig into an authentic Hawaii shave ice desert, a flavorful tropical cocktail. In summary, to experience island cuisine is to experience Hawaii.

Where to Eat

Finally, if you are looking for restaurant suggestions, our  mobile app includes a selection of Waikiki restaurants. Each restaurant includes a link to the menus, locations and contact information.  We update our local restaurant lists as we discover fun atmospheres and ono dining worthy of your time.

The Aloha Spirit

Hawaii’s unique charm comes from the Aloha Spirit. Aloha means the spirit of love, and is commonly used as hello and goodbye. However, Aloha also means compassion, kindness and giving. But the Aloha Spirit encompasses more than Aloha as it embodies Hawaiian values:

• malama: to care for
• ‘ohana: family
• ho’okipa: hospitality
• ‘olu’olu: graciousness
• kokua: helpfulness
• lokahi: unity and harmony
• kupono: honesty and fairness

In summary, the Hawaiian value provide the foundation for a respected and treasured culture.

Hawaii is more than the physical beauty of the land, sea and sky.  Hawaii is a community with a long and fascinating history that continues to be felt in many ways. The people are happy and happy people are friendly people.

Discover Hawaii

Discover more about Hawaii by visiting the Bishop Museum or the Polynesian Culture Center.  Our Waikiki Bucket List offers more suggestions to help you discover Hawaii. The more you discover about Hawaii’s past, the more you understand modern-day Hawaii.

The past is still a vital part of the present in Hawaii.  Enrich your experience of the culture by experiencing the people and the spirit of aloha during your visit.  In doing so, you are helping to keep history alive.  Explore the traditions of the past that are still prevalent in the culture of Waikiki and Oahu’s small towns.

Kapuna bless Kuhio Village Towers through traditional chant and ceremony. The towers memorialize the Hawaiian Prince Jonah Kūhiō Kalanianaʻole who was a prince of the Kingdom of Hawaii. A coalition of American and European businessmen overthrew the kingdom in 1893.

Chanting

The early Hawaiians had no written language but they developed chants. As a result, chants recorded the genealogy of chiefs. Chants also are used during blessings and are a highly evolved verbal communication. Chanters remain an important member of Hawaii’s society. They preserve history and legend.

The Hawaiian Blessing is a traditional ceremony to bless new homes, canoes, businesses, babies, and food. The blessing calls upon great powers to assist in the safety, well being and success of the new creation. The blessing also cleans and clears the way of any conflict or negative experience that may have occurred in the past. The ceremony, performed by a spiritual leader, draws a community together to participate in honoring a new beginning.

Guest Rules

We want you to have a wonderful stay with us in paradise and ask that you follow a few basic Guest Rules in addition to complying with the building’s House Rules.

Guest Check-in

• All guests and guest’s visitors must register with a valid photo id (all adult occupants in the unit) at check-in with your host or in the Real Estate management office. For after-hour arrivals / check-ins, prior arrangements must be made in advance of your arrival.

• Do not let anyone up the elevator within a secured building.

Be Courteous and Respectful

• While on property to include lobbies, elevators, hallways, lanais and in room, please keep noise volumes to a minimum. Loud music or TV playback is generally not allowed.

• Intoxicated or illegal behavior is never permitted.

• Do not allow shower or bath tub water to puddle water on the bathroom floor or you could cause a leak to a neighboring unit of which you will be responsible for the damages and costs to remedy the situation.

• Never hang items over the lanai walls, or allow any items to drip, drain or fall from a lanai (balcony).

• Do NOT bring beach SAND into the rooms or the tub / shower because sand will clog the drains.  Use the beach showers to rise all sand to leave it at the beach.

• Report any leaks, damages, issues or concerns right away to your host or to the office for assistance. 

Room Supplies

• We provide a few complementary supplies such as bath soap, dish soap & sponge, trash liners, toilet paper and paper towels at check-in and recommend guests bring or purchase their own products such as shampoo, conditioner, lotion, make-up removers, sanitizers and wipes. Guest rooms with coffee stations include complimentary coffee and tea along with condiments and a Hawaiian sweet treat! However, supplies are not restocked with the intent of supplying your needs for the duration of your stay. Bring or purchase extra supplies for extended stays.

Air Conditioner Use

• If your unit has a window A/C unit, please do not running the A/C all day and all night. Turn off the A/C while you are out during the day. On the hottest days with abnormal humidity, window A/C units may be over-worked and produce more condensation than normal.  Please check if the container underneath the A/C if it fills up and spills water on the lanai. Empty A/C containers into the tub. Water dripping is unpleasant for others below, causes a trip hazard and could result in building violations and fines.

Rubbish

• For buildings with Trash chutes, they are generally located on each floor (Kuhio Village next to the elevator shaft in a closet marked REFUSE). Please tie all bags before using the trash chute and if you have items too large, please break down cardboard boxes flat before putting it in the large trash bins usually in the basement level.

• Do not flush anything down the toilet expect a SMALL amount of toilet tissue or you will cause a clog or flood.  NO FLUSHABLES, BABY WIPES, PAPER TOWELS, ETC. If you cause a clog, you will be responsible for the cost to remediate the situation.

Parking

• Parking is at your own risk whether be in a garage or on the street. Most public parking garages has a unmanned ticket station, be sure to re-pay and place your parking ticket on the front dashboard so that it is clearly visible / readable from the outside (unless otherwise posted). Any car parked with an expired ticket or without a ticket may be towed at your expense (usually over $200). Do NOT leave any valuables in the car unattended. We do not manage the parking lots. Parking management and tow company phone numbers are posted.

Guest Check-out

• Check-out time is no later than 11:00 AM.  If you fail to check out on time, you could be charged a fee. If you have a late flight on your check-out date, please check with us in advance to see if you can extend for a fee and we will schedule the cleaning for the following morning for those guests on the red eye flights.

• Upon check-out, please return keys as instructed. Unaccounted key sets incur a $150 charge per set.

Considered as part of our reservation agreement with you, the Guest Rules and the building’s House Rules promote guests’ safety and enjoyment.  Contact us if you have any questions about the Guest Rules.

The biggest surprise about Oahu is how many beautiful beaches there are and how often many are utterly uncrowded if you want to explore outside of Waikiki.  Whether you are trying to discover magical, secluded beaches, or searching for beaches that are bustling with activity, you should consider the island’s geography.

Waikiki Beach

First is world famous Waikiki Beach which is a short stroll from our properties.  Waikiki Beach is less than one mile in length and is one of the most user friendly beaches in the world. A beach where just about anyone can take a surfing lesson and ride their first wave. Waikiki is the essence of carefree with more restaurants than most decent sized towns and limitless shopping. A sunset walk along Waikiki Beach is always a dreamy experience as the sounds of waves reaching the shore line along with music often spilling over from the various resorts that line the beach. Waikiki Beach is a special place and some visitors chose to stay within Waikiki for their entire stay.

As with all Oahu Beaches, as beautiful and enticing the ocean may appear but rip currents and rogue waves do occur. Only swim at beaches with life guards and do check with life guards before entering the water. They can advise you on any hazards such as rocky or reef areas. You will find many life guards at Waikiki Beach.  You will also find sea walls separating a near shore swimming area from the rest of the ocean. A sea wall is in place a Kuhio Beach in Waikiki so if you are apprehensive about entering the ocean or have young children, Kuhio Beach is the ideal beach for you under most conditions.

North Shore Beaches

Next is the iconic North Shore beaches which can be a wonderful playground in the summer with calm clear waters and beautiful vistas. However in the winter, proceed with caution, as large ocean waves pound the shorelines and are a spectacle to see and feel. Large ocean waves are a big danger. Remember all the water coming in must get back out so be extremely cautious even along the water’s edge.

Windward Beaches

Third is the windward or eastern side of the island that has the most underutilized beaches on the island however if the trade winds are blowing, the windward beaches can get windy. Keep in mind a light breeze might just be enough to keep you cool while enjoying the sunshine. However winds greater than 20 mph can make for an uncomfortable beach day.

Waianae Coast Beaches

Finally, Waianae or the western side of the island has lots of beaches that are sheltered from the trade winds with the Waianae Mountains blocking their path. The beaches tend to be more crowded with local families sometimes camping at the beaches especially on the weekends. But if you keep driving to the western most end of the island, you will discover Makaha and Kaena Point State Park offering a remote and natural coastline.

Un-Written Rules You Should Know

• Drive with Aloha. Let cars go in front of you, go slow and give pedestrians the right away.
• If cars are stopped in front of you for no reason, do NOT switch lanes to continue, assume there is a pedestrian.
• Our most busy crosswalks have a new pattern that allows all pedestrians to cross at once to include diagonally so DO NOT assume you can turn on a red traffic light and watch for confused pedestrians trying to cross at the wrong time.
• DO NOT HONK your car horn unless it is an absolute emergency; it is considered rude to honk at someone.
• Do not leave valuables in an un-attended car anywhere and do NOT flaunt your spending money.
• Be smart where you park or you could face an unexpected tow bill ($250) if you do not obey the signs.
• Most people you meet are friendly and kind however beware if you come across an unstable person who may have a mental illness, go the other way. Often they are just yelling at nobody. Trust your gut instinct.
• Hawaii has a homeless problem, several choose not to live in shelters but choose to live on the streets instead, and for the most part they do not want to harm you although they could ask for money or food.
• Waikiki Ambassadors’ are part of the welcome center and patrol Waikiki on foot and bike to help our visitors with directions or information. Know that they wear neon yellow / green labeled shirts and are there for you.
• Do not turn your back on the ocean. Do not go to the edge of cliffs or the ocean. Use caution at all times and be aware the beauty of our island can sometimes catch you off guard. Take caution to posted signs and check with a life guard for any current conditions you should be aware of at our public beaches.
• Take what you bring and leave all that you don’t bring when hiking, beaching, or exploring the islands. You would be surprised just how many people “mail” items back. Respect the land, water & air as we do.
• Ask lifeguard or check posted signs on the beach for jellyfish warnings, high surf, strong currents or rip currents.
• Do not go surfing, snorkeling or hiking alone. Always let someone know where you are going if you will be alone.

GROCERIES

Safeway – Located outside of Waikiki on Kapahulu Ave. The #13 bus drops off and picks up right in front.Foodland Farms – Located outside of Waikiki at The Ala Moana Mall at 1450 Ala Moana Blvd. The #13 or #19 bus drops off and picks up right in front.

Whole Foods – Located outside of Waikiki at The Kahala Mall at 4211 Wai’alae Ave. The #22 or #23 bus drops off and picks up right in front.

Farmers Markets – From fresh cut tropical island fruits and vegetables to pastries and pupus (appetizers), there is something for everyone.  Locations and times have changed since Covid-19 shutdown.

KID FRIENDLY

Honolulu Zoo – Yes there is a Zoo here and it is so close…just at the end of Waikiki as you’re going toward Diamond Head. Open daily.

Waikiki Aquarium – Located along the beach past the zoo in the direction of Diamond Head; Open daily and night tours offered too.

WAIKIKI FREEBIES

Fireworks – Every Friday after sunset usually between 7:30 – 7:45pm compliments of the Hilton Hawaiian Village.

Hula Show – Authentic Hawaiian Music and hula shows by Hawaii’s finest halau hula (dance troops) and Hawaiian Performers. Every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, weather permitting, 6:30 to 7:30 pm (6:00 to 7:00 pm November thru December) at the hula mound on the beach at Kalakaua and Uluniu.

Lei Making – At the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center along Kalakaua Avenue,  Monday-Saturday 1:00 to 2:00 pm.

‘Ukulele Lessons – At the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center along Kalakaua Avenue, Tuesday thru Friday 10:00 to -11:00 am.

Hula Lessons – At the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center along Kalakaua Ave. Tuesday 11:00 am to 12:00 pm, Thursday 4:00 – 5:00 pm.

The Bus & Popular Routes

The island of Oahu is easily accessible via The Bus, operated by the City and County of Honolulu. Most routes are serviced every 15-30 minutes and cover the whole island. Bus stops are located in front of the property, and you can circle the island right from the same block. Hanauma Bay for snorkeling, Sunset Beach on the North Shore and Pearl Harbor are all within reach! All fares are $2.75 each way (as of June 2020). Discounts such as Senior and Child may be available. 1-day passes are $5.50 and if you are staying a month or so, it’s best to buy a monthly pass for $70.00 at most ABC Stores in Waikiki. Both pass options allow for unlimited travel over the given time period. However know that The Bus does not allow luggage on the bus so you should plan to get other transportation to or from the airport. Download The Bus app for easiest use to plan ahead.

OTHER THINGS TO KNOW AND REMINDERS

If you are planning to return home with gifts or to take something back to remember your stay then you might prefer the prices at the “Swap Meet” at the Aloha Stadium on Saturday or Sunday. You can also try Walmart near the Ala Moana Shopping Center; they usually have a good selection of souvenirs, mac nuts, etc. If you plan to take home Pineapples or other fruits & veggies, make sure they will clear the airport screening by asking the vender – some pineapple boxes are marked, some are NOT.

If you have a return ticket for a shuttle service to the airport, it’s usually a good idea to arrange your pick-up time 48-hours in advance. Always plan to leave Waikiki three (3) hours before departure if you are checking bags with your airline. Remember, all checked luggage must clear agriculture screening prior to checking in with your airline.

Please enjoy your stay safely!

Your Waikiki Bucket List

The app is not meant to replace meeting us in person but is a fabulous tool to compliment your guest experience.  The app gives you access to your reservation information and guest information from your mobile device. Make reservation payments, check-out from your reservations, and even book future vacations. These are just a small amount of things the Happy Stays Guest Mobile App can do for you! We are regularly adding new content, restaurants, tours and adventures for you to consider. Enjoy and always have a Happy Stay!

Once you complete your reservation, we will send you a link to download the Happy Stays app and provide you with a reservation access code.

  Apple iOS App Store
Google Play App Store

Navigating the Happy Stays Guest Mobile App

The main screen contains your reservation information and your Wi-Fi broadband Internet code.  A link to reservation details is available with cost and payment information. You can use the reservation details link to provide us feedback on your stay. At the top right of the app you have three horizontal lines which is the button to access visitor information.  Within visitor information, you have access to information specific to

1. 1. First Time Visitors
   2. Shuttles
   3. Office Directions
   4. Hawaiian Culture
   5. Guest Experience
   6. Local Restaurants
   7. Tours and Excursions
   8. Weather
   9. Videos

Pest wise you a most likely to come across a gecko. Some consider them cute and others are terrified by them.  They are afraid of you and will avoid you but they will eat any bugs that may be around.  You are unlikely to come across any bugs in your accommodations as all our units are inspected and treated by EPA-certified, safe pesticides, quarterly.

Traveler checks are usually accepted, but you should be aware that some merchants might look at you like you just tried to offer them a foreign currency. You should also know that Discover Card seems to be less welcome here than at other destinations and many places do not accept them.

If you are going to spend any time at the beach, woven bamboo beach mats can be found all over the island, are inexpensive alternatives to beach towels, can be rolled up for convenient storage, and the sand comes off the mat rather easily.

Please remember that Hawaii is not a Disney Land rather it is Mother Nature and she is hard, slippery, sharp, and unpredictable. Hiking guides and websites do not know the current conditions. Nothing is static and nothing can take the place of your own observations and good judgement.  Always trust your judgment and if you are seeking adventure prepare yourself for adventure. There are lots of wonderful things to do on the island and we want you to be safe and happy.

Hawaii is regarded as a paradise for its beautiful oceans, mountains, forests, and weather. Visitors often remark how the days are long and the weeks are short. Those lucky enough to a stay a while longer feel as if summer never ends.

Because of our tropical location, the length of daylight does not vary greatly throughout the year. Hawaii Standard Time is in effect year round.  In summertime, we enjoy longer days with the sun rising over the horizon around 5:30 am and setting to the west around 7:00 pm.  While the winter time brings us shorter days with the sunrise around 7:00 am and sunset around 6:00 pm.

Hawaii does not change its clocks for Daylight Savings Time so depending on the time of year we can be 5 to 6 hours behind the east coast of the United States and 19 to 20 hours behind Tokyo, and 20 to 21 hours behind Sydney.

Hawaiian Time

One aspect of Hawaiian culture you may have heard is Hawaiian time.  According to the urban dictionary, Hawaiian time entails employing a Laissez-faire attitude towards matters of punctuality. The stereotype is that everyone in Hawaii move just a little bit slower than on the continental United States. After your visit you can decide whether Hawaiian time is a stereotype or something that actually exists. Hopefully, during your visit, you will notice that this feeling infects you.  The reason you are visiting Hawaii is for its beauty and sense of peace. If someone is moving a little bit slower than you, just go with it.

Getting from Honolulu Airport to Waikiki: Your Best Options

If you’re visiting Oʻahu, you’ll arrive at Honolulu International Airport (HNL). From there, you have several convenient ways to reach Waikiki, depending on your budget, schedule, and comfort level.

Most visitors don’t need a car for their entire stay, so we recommend choosing transportation based on your plans. Let’s walk through your options.

🚕 Taxi (Cab)

Taxis are one of the easiest and most convenient ways to get to Waikiki.

• Travel time: ~30 minutes
• Cost: $40–$65 (one-way)
• Pick-up location: Lower level (baggage claim)

Taxis are typically lined up and ready to go, so wait times are minimal—great if you just want to get to your hotel quickly.

🚐 Airport Shuttle

Shared shuttle services are a budget-friendly alternative.

• Travel time: 30–45 minutes (depending on stops)
• Cost: Around $30 (one-way)
• Pick-up location: Lower level

A popular option is Roberts Hawaii, with shuttles running every 15–30 minutes. You can usually pay onboard.

🚌 City Bus (“TheBus”)

For travelers on a budget, the public bus system is very affordable.

• Travel time: 35+ minutes
• Cost: $3 (exact cash) or $7.50 day pass
• Pick-up location: Upper level (departures level)

TheBus runs frequently and can take you directly to Waikiki. However, note:

• Large luggage is not allowed
• Space is limited during busy times

Be sure to confirm with the driver that the route is heading to Waikiki before boarding.

🚗 Rental Car

Renting a car gives you flexibility—but it’s not always necessary.

Oʻahu is unique among the Hawaiian islands because you can easily enjoy your stay without a car, especially if you’re staying in Waikiki.

Our recommendation:

• Rent a car only for 1–2 days to explore areas like the North Shore
• Use public transit, walking, or rideshare the rest of the time

Keep in mind:

• Parking in Waikiki can be expensive (sometimes as much as the rental itself)
• Street parking is limited and not always convenient

To save money, consider renting from a Waikiki location only on the days you need it.

🚗 Rideshare (Uber & Lyft)

Rideshare services are widely available and easy to use.

• Cost: ~$36–$77 depending on demand
• Travel time: ~30 minutes

This is often the best balance between cost and convenience, especially for small groups.

🛵 Alternative: Mopeds & Scooters

For short trips around Waikiki, renting a moped or scooter can be a fun and convenient option—just be mindful of traffic and parking rules.

🚦 Driving on Oʻahu: What to Expect

Driving on Oʻahu can feel confusing at first.

• Road names sometimes change unexpectedly
• Highways are labeled H-1, H-2, and H-3 (despite not connecting to other states)
• You cannot drive around the entire island—the road ends at Kaʻena Point

Traffic can also be heavy, especially during rush hours. Keep in mind:

• The island is relatively small (about 597 square miles)
• Congestion is common during work commute times

Using navigation apps like Google Maps will make your experience much easier.

🚘 Local Driving Tips

• Directions are often given using:
  • Mauka = toward the mountains
  • Makai = toward the ocean
• Never leave valuables in your car
• Rental cars are easy targets for theft
• If storing items in your trunk, do so before arriving at your destination

Final Thoughts

For most visitors, the best strategy is:

• Use rideshare or shuttle from the airport
• Skip the rental car for most of your stay
• Rent a car only when you’re ready to explore the island

This approach saves money, reduces stress, and lets you enjoy Waikiki at your own pace.

Following is a suggested list of what to bring on your trip to Hawaii including common travel necessities as well as reminders for those often forgettable travel items.

Helpful hint: Check with your airline regarding what you can carry on the plane as new rules and regulations change. Also, check the weather forecast for your destination, as well as local customs for clothing guidelines. Remember, travel experts advise to pack light.

Waikiki is a self-contained metropolis where nearly 70 percent of Oahu visitors reside with the remaining 30 percent being permanent residents and of those permanent residents the majority of local residents are unmarried enjoying the glitz and glamour in this languorous tropical paradise.  The Waikiki lifestyle is not a normal routine. An eclectic and blissful harmony of honeymooners, teenagers, conventioneers, business people, retirees, beach goers, and local residents. Waikiki is a fantasy world – exciting and relaxing, fleeting and eternal.

WHAT TO BRING

How to prepare for your Hawaii stay? Assuming you are coming to Hawaii to enjoy the outdoors then this list can assist you in planning what to bring for a safe and enjoyable stay.  All the items on the list can be purchased or rented once you are here but if you have the space in your luggage and want to save some $$ consider packing these items.

• Waterproof sunblock (SPF 50 or higher – sun is most intense between 11:00 am and 1:00 pm)
• Two bathing suites
• Beach towels
• Flip flops, reef walking shoes, hiking shoes (most restaurants have a lax dress code)
• Mask, snorkel and fins (can be rented)
• Hiking attire or clothes that you don’t mind getting muddy
• Light rain jacket
• Mosquito repellent for hikes into the wilderness
• Large insulated water container
• Shorts and other cool cotton clothing
• Small pack or backpack
• Hat or cap for sun protection
• Toiletries and medications
• Phone charger

General Packing Tips

• Pack heavy items, such as shoes and toiletry kits, before the more delicate ones. Place them along the suitcase’s spine to balance weight at the bottom.
• To reduce wrinkling, turn jackets inside out and fold them in half with tissue paper or dry-cleaning bags. Layering plastic bags or tissue between clothes also helps prevent wrinkles.
• Hang clothing in the bathroom while showering to steam out wrinkles.
• Line the bottom of your suitcase with your trousers and let the legs hang over the outside edge of the suitcase. Then pack the rest of your travel gear with the lighter materials on top. Wrap trouser legs over the pile; they’ll keep their crease.
• Stuff socks and rolled-up belts into shoes to save space.
• Take along plastic bags for laundry or wet swimsuits.
• Bring an empty, soft bag for souvenirs.