Exploring Honolulu: A Quick Adventure in French Polynesia
As a flight attendant with an incurable case of wanderlust, I’ve been fortunate enough to visit some truly stunning destinations—but Hawaii always has a way of pulling me back. A few years ago, in May, I took a quick yet soul-refreshing trip to Oahu for the second time, and even in just a few days, the island worked its allure.
🌴 Why Oahu in May? Here's What Makes It So Special
May is one of Oahu’s best-kept secrets. The weather is warm but not sweltering, crowds are thinner before the summer rush, and airfare/hotel rates are often more wallet-friendly. Add in blooming tropical flowers and the start of local festival season, and you’ve got a recipe for a dreamy island escape.I had the chance to explore the beautiful island of Oahu for a second time, and I wanted to share a bit about my whirlwind trip in and out of Honolulu. Although it was a short getaway, every moment was packed with the pulse of the island,. Here’s a recap of my 2-day Honolulu journey.
Whether you're dreaming of your first visit or planning a return, here's a glimpse into my mini escape and why May might just be the perfect time for your own Hawaiian adventure.
Day 1: Travel Day and Arrival
I started my trip by taking an early United Airlines flight from Newark (EWR) to Honolulu (HNL). The flight was long, but I managed to sleep through most of it, crossing multiple time zones without even realizing it! It was one of those rare flights where you wake up and feel refreshed, even after a long-haul journey. Flight time was 10 hours and 58 minutes.
Upon landing in Honolulu, I was greeted by a fellow flight attendant friend whom I planned the trip with. We flew into town on separate flights. We were both ready to hit the ground running.
For our accommodation, we decided to stay at the Waikiki Boutique Hostel. It was affordable, comfortable, and in a great location for a quick trip. After settling in, we ventured out to explore the iconic Waikiki Beach area. We snapped a few pictures of the pristine blue water, golden sand, and iconic banyan trees then started planning the rest of our flexible day.
Adventure at Diamond Head
Next up was a visit to Diamond Head area, one of Oahu’s most famous landmarks. We caught the bus to the base of Diamond Head and set out to hike a portion of the Summit Trail. The 0.8-mile hike takes you to the top, offering sweeping panoramic views of the island and the Pacific Ocean. We took interest in a tunnel that had gusty wind blowing through it. For us it was worth it for the slow motion images we took while being caught in the wind.
After the hike, we decided to walk all the way back to the hostel, which turned out to be a great way to see more of the city. By the time we returned, we were ready for a well-deserved dinner.
Dinner at Manukamudon
For dinner, we headed to Manukamudon, a cozy spot known for its delicious rice bowls and comforting flavors. It was the perfect meal to refuel after a day of hiking and sightseeing. We ate, laughed, and enjoyed the local atmosphere before heading out to our next stop.
International Marketplace & Evening Stroll
After dinner, we took a leisurely stroll through the International Marketplace. It’s a vibrant shopping center with lots of local shops, restaurants, and entertainment. The marketplace has a great mix of traditional Hawaiian culture and modern shopping, making it a fun place to browse and take in the sights Before calling it a night.
Day 2: A Day of Culture and Adventure
The next morning, I woke up early since my body clock was on East Coast Time; took time to pack for the day ahead. We helped ourselves to a complimentary breakfast at the Waikiki hostel. After fueling up, we made our way to the Polynesian Cultural Center. We took the narrated motor coach transportation, which made the journey easy, informative and cheerful. We arrived at the center around noon, ready to dive into a full day of Hawaiian culture.
Polynesian Cultural Center
The Polynesian Cultural Center is a must-see when visiting Honolulu. It offers a deep dive into the traditions, art, and customs of Polynesia through interactive exhibits, performances, and demonstrations. We spent hours exploring the different villages, learning about the culture of Hawaii, Fiji, Tahiti, Samoa, and more. The center’s immersive approach to storytelling made it an unforgettable experience that took up the entire day.
A Traditional Luau
As the evening approached, we enjoyed the highlight of the day—the Luau! The traditional Hawaiian feast was a treat for both the eyes and the taste buds. We feasted on purplish blue Hawaiian roll made from taro root, poi (a taro root starchy side), and other local specialties while enjoying hula dancing and Polynesian music. It was the perfect way to end a day of cultural exploration.
Heading Home
After the Luau, it was time to say goodbye to Oahu. We boarded our Hawaiian Airlines flight to the West Coast and, from there, a Delta flight back to the East Coast. Although my trip was short, it was packed with experiences I’ll remember forever.
Honolulu is a stunning destination, and even in just two days, I felt like I experienced a full mix of nature, culture, and local life. I’ll definitely be back for more!
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✈️ Quick Trip, Big Impact: My Oahu Itinerary Highlights Overview
Even on a short trip, you can soak in the island’s rhythm. Here’s how I made the most of every hour:
1. Sunrise at Lanikai Beach
I landed just in time to catch the golden glow over the Mokulua Islands. Soft waves, silky sand, and a peaceful breeze—this beach is the definition of paradise.
2. Local Eats in Kailua
From fresh acai bowls to garlic shrimp trucks, I indulged in island flavors that hit just right after a red-eye flight. Pro tip: Get the loco moco for brunch—you won’t regret it.
3. Diamond Head Hike
No matter how many times I visit, the views from above always take my breath away. This time frame, the trails should be quieter, and the clear skies make for perfect photos.
4. Sunset at Waikiki
Capping the day with a mai tai and a fiery sunset over the ocean reminded me why Honolulu is such a vibe. If you can snag a spot at Duke’s or House Without a Key, do it.
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🧳 Travel Tips from the Jumpseat
As someone who's often on the move, here are a few travel tips to help you make the most of a quick Hawaiian getaway:
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Pack light!!!: You’ll live in swimwear and breezy clothes. Leave the heels at home.
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Book midweek flights: Tuesdays and Wednesdays tend to be cheaper and less crowded.
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Rent a car: Oahu is best explored beyond Waikiki. A drive up to the North Shore is a must.
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Hydrate: That island sun is no joke. Coconut water is your best friend.
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Be respectful: Hawaii is more than a postcard—it’s home to a deep, living culture. Support local, learn a bit of Hawaiian, and leave no trace. PS. you will fill out a custom like form from the Hawaiian Tourism Authority upon arrival
🌈 Final Thoughts: Let the Island Slow You Down
Even though my trip was short, it reminded me of something I think we all forget—how powerful it is to slow down, change scenery, breathe deep, and let a place sink into your soul.
If you're thinking about traveling to Hawaii, May is a golden window of time. Fewer crowds, better rates, and everything in bloom—it’s as if the island is whispering, “Come now.”
I highly recommend the experiences I had—especially the Diamond Head hike, the Polynesian Cultural Center, and the Luau. There’s so much to see and do (in a laid back way), and you can make the most of even a short visit.
xoxo,
The Flight Attendant Nextdoor
Aloha
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