The Waikiki Beat

Swing the Day Away

A quick aerial view of Waikiki shows magnificent skylines juxtaposed with almost four miles of a giant green patch. Yes, we’re still in Honolulu, not Central Park, New York. That lush green patch happens to be the famous Ala Wai Golf Course. You will definitely want to clear your schedule in order to fully experience this gorgeous 18-hole course that includes over 3.5 miles of playable green.

If you don’t have the time for this world-class course, stop by anyway for the newly reopened driving range. Hit some balls and take your time, as the driving range is open most days until 12:00 am. When you’re ready for a break, check out the pro shop and cafe for some gear and grub. Come see why this hidden gem is the local best-kept secret!

Get Wild at the Honolulu Zoo

Surreal beaches and enchanting sunsets attract visitors from all over the world to Honolulu, but us humans are not alone in our love for this paradise! Honolulu Zoo is conveniently located half of a mile away from Royal Grove Waikiki and offers a unique chance to meet some of the most ferocious and adorable animals from all parts of the world.

This unique animal habitat boasts over 900 different species ranging from lions to sloths and everything in between. Come face to face with a prehistoric monster in the Komodo dragon exhibit or relax with our distant Chimpanzee cousins! With such a wide selection of exotic creatures, be ready to spend several hours exploring all that this zoo has to offer.

We refuse to call it quits when the sun goes down; Honolulu Zoo offers a Twilight Tour for guests traveling between October and March. Enjoy a new sight as the more familiar daytime crew takes a hike and gives way to more mysterious nocturnal beasts.

Eat Like A Local

Honolulu is home to a unique and exciting culinary scene. The metropolitan center of Hawaii, Oahu has a variety of excellent restaurants that visitors can choose from. Eat like a local in small neighborhoods like Kapahulu or Haleiwa or dine in high style at some of Hawaii's finest restaurants.

Oahu is home to arguably some of the best chefs in the world. Alan Wong at Alan Wong's Restaurant, Roy Yamaguchi at Roy's Waikiki, George Mavrothalassitis at Chef Mavro Restaurant, and Phillippe Padovani at Elua are some of the founding chefs of the Hawaii Regional Cuisine movement. These local legends take fresh, locally grown produce and ingredients to create flavorful dishes for visitors and locals alike.

Hawaii locals love to eat, and Oahu offers a variety of comfort foods in a variety of locations. At Farmers' Markets on Oahu, you can buy local fish, meat, and produce and sample Oahu-style cooking, from gourmet plate lunches to great Hawaii Regional Cuisine.