Maybe! If you're only staying for a few days and are planning to stay in Waikiki, you can probably go without a car. Waikiki itself is very walk-friendly, and parking tends to be difficult and/or expensive. Take public transport to other major tourist hubs or take an uber. On the other hand, if you're staying for a little longer (closer to a week), you might want to rent a car for a day or two and plan all of your farther adventures on those two days. Keep in mind that you can usually do an around-the-island tour in just a day if you want to, so you likely won't need a car for very much more than that. Finally, if you're staying outside of Waikiki, it could be worth renting a car as you'd be far from a lot of the bigger tourist attractions.

Diamond Head: Now requires reservations! Kevin's favorite; a very friendly "hike" near Waikiki for great views. Koko Head Hike: For those of you who want a challenge, a 1,048 stair trail in Hawaii Kai. A little far from Waikiki, where Leeya grew up. Stop by Koko Nuts for shave ice (and Leeya's favorite Nutella strawberry crepes). Great to pair with activities like the Makapu'u tide pools or Hanauma Bay (reservation only, PARKING FILLS UP EARLY). Lanikai Pillbox: Beautiful hike. Eventually becomes unpaved; you can turn around when there's no pavement, or (very carefully) continue on. Manoa Falls: Meet the jungle part of Oahu. Beautiful greenery with a gorgeous fall at the end. Not recommended to go after heavy rain because it can get very muddy and the fall can become dangerous. Don't go if you have any open cuts, bring a lot of bug spray for mosquitos, and a towel to wipe off.

Lanikai Beach: Leeya's favorite; powdery soft sand and beautiful views. For those of you planning to swim, make sure it's not the right season for Portuguese Man-of-wars (small jellyfish, you won't die but it might feel like you will). Plan for there to be NO parking; instead, opt for an uber/lyft or public transport. Magic Island/Waikiki: Go for a relaxing morning stroll or to one of the many hotels for a sunset dinner on the beach. For those looking for a more secluded experience, make a reservation and walk over to the Kaimana Beach Hotel's Hau Tree restaurant. We had an amazing sunset-dinner there a few years ago! You can also find beginner-friendly surfing classes at Waikiki. Laniakea Beach: If you're lucky (you'll know because the road will be at a stand-still), you'll see some napping turtles on the beach here. Great for a pit stop on the way to Haleiwa! Hanauma Bay: Right where Leeya grew up. Requires reservations and parking can be very competitive unless you go first thing in the morning (can fill up by 7AM). Beautiful snorkeling area.

We’ve noticed that tickets tend to be cheaper around 3 months before the flight. However, we recommend checking prices regularly to get the best deal!