Nostalgic Honolulu

With its world-renowned beaches, lush jungle landscapes, and luxury hotels, it’s no surprise that the island of Oahu attracts tourists from across the globe who are looking to kick back and relax in a tropical Polynesian paradise. Today, the Hawaiian archipelago is one of North America’s top tourist destinations, but that hasn’t always been the case. In fact, it wasn’t until the 1960s—shortly after Hawaii became the 50th state in the Union—that tourism really began to boom. By the 70s, Oahu’s capital, Honolulu, made major adjustments to meet growing demands from visitors. Highways were expanded, high-rise hotels were built in place of Mission-style structures, and untouched land gave way to bustling shopping centers and movie theaters. Thankfully, there are still plenty of things to do in Oahu that can take you back to its Golden Age—that dreamy era of idyllic landscapes, exotic entertainment, and worry-free living that we still associate with Hawaii today. Here are our top picks.

01

Polynesian Cultural Center admission & show

Travel back in time to the early days of Oahu at the Polynesian Cultural Center. Immerse yourself in indigenous Hawaiian traditions and learn about other native Polynesian peoples from across the South Pacific. Watch a coconut get cut from a 12-meter tree, test your throwing accuracy with an authentic spear, and learn how to move to the rhythm of a thumping Tahitian drum.

After exploring the rich heritage of six Pacific cultures, finish the day by watching the Hā: Breath of Life fire show, a jaw-dropping spectacle featuring more than 100 Polynesian performers, extraordinary special effects, and heart-pounding audio.

02

Hawaii’s Plantation Village

Venture back to the 19th- and 20th-centuries, when “sugar was king,” with a visit to Hawaii’s Plantation Village. This living history museum, located roughly 30 minutes west of downtown Honolulu, tells the story of life during the booming sugar plantation era, from the mid-1800s to the 1980s.

Wander through the village and discover 25 old-world homes and structures that highlight personal artifacts, clothing, furniture, and art. Step into the botanical gardens to see unique plants brought over by Chinese, Japanese, and Filipino immigrants, before sampling fresh fruit picked straight off the vine.

03

Best of Chinatown food tour

Dive into Honolulu’s famous Asian food scene—one that’s been flourishing ever since the first wave of Far East immigrants made their way to the Hawaiian islands at the end of the 1800s. Take a food tour through Chinatown, where a melting pot of culinary delights await.

Bop between restaurants and markets (including the famed Maunakea Marketplace) to sample favorites like piping hot dim sum, wok-fried noodles, caramel-covered banana lumpia, and one of Oahu’s most iconic dishes: fresh and salty poke salad.

04

Longs Drugs

A visit to Longs Drugs may only be brief, but it’s a must when vacationing in Honolulu. First opened in Hawaii in 1954, this chain drugstore—which is unlike any other on the American mainland—carries all those island-life necessities. Make a stop to pick up essentials such as kukui necklaces, flower leis, rubber slippers, and chocolate-covered macadamia nuts.

Though the company was purchased by CVS in 2008, the local stores still bear the nostalgic Longs name (look for the retro red-letter signs that are dotted around the city).

05

Waikiki food & beverage tours

Step outside of Chinatown to uncover gourmet dishes and drinks that embody the kind of Hawaiian fusion gastronomy that was first made famous in the early 20th-century. At cafes, restaurants, and bars, you can dig into East-meets-beach creations such as lobster rolls with cucumber namasu, chipotle kalua pork sliders, and fried mahi tacos with soy aioli slaw.

06

Hawaiian VW camper van rental

If you truly want to experience the laidback island vibe of Oahu, channel your inner 70s surfer. Forget hotels or Airbnbs and rent a vintage VW campervan instead. Strap on your board, zoom down the coast, and find a prime spot near the beach to park.

Catch waves at beloved North Shore surf spots such as Ehukai Beach, Laniakea, or Sunset Beach. When you’re ready to rest, just fold down the van’s back seats to create a bed. You won’t regret waking up to the sound of the waves lapping on the shore.

07

Aha’aina Royal Hawaiian Luau

Of all the things to do in Oahu, one thing is certain: your trip is not complete without attending a traditional luau (a Hawaiian feast and party). At the breathtaking beachfront performance of Aha’aina, you’ll be taken on a cultural journey through time, to the days when native Hawaiians would celebrate momentous occasions through song, dance, stories, and food.

Pay homage to the archipelago’s rich history as you listen to ancient legends of the sea, take in the melodious sounds of the ukulele, and marvel at the rhythmic movements of the hula dancers. Held at the glamourous 1920s Royal Hawaiian Hotel—affectionately known as the “Pink Palace of the Pacific”—this extraordinary show also treats you to a lavish feast with all the expected island trappings.