North Shore Favorite: Ted’s Bakery

You’ll need to rent a car to check this one out, but it’s well worth the drive! Ted’s Bakery is a hidden gem with a true local feel, a special spot we discovered on a recent trip (thank you to our friend Theo Maniatis for the recommendation!). It’s the perfect pit stop on your way up to the North Shore. For breakfast or brunch, you can’t go wrong with any of their breakfast sandwiches!

One of our favorite childhood and local treats is shave ice! Perfect for cooling off in the island sun! Be sure to check out Ululani's Hawaiian Shave Ice near the hotels, known for its incredibly soft, fluffy ice and delicious, fresh flavors. It’s light, refreshing, and a must-try

Sweet Treat Stop: Leonard’s Bakery

Our favorite post-beach indulgence has to be malasadas from Leonard’s. Jeremy is loyal to the classic with cinnamon sugar, while Tiff can never resist the originals filled with custard or guava. A must-try, whether you visit the iconic bakery itself or one of the bright pink mobile trucks scattered across the island!

Our absolute favorite beach on the island, Lanikai is pure paradise. With soft white sand, calm turquoise waters, and picture-perfect views of the Mokulua Islands, it’s an ideal spot for swimming, relaxing, or simply soaking up the beauty of Hawaiʻi.

The Lei Stand Waikīkī is a vibrant cocktail lounge inside Romer House, known for its creative island-inspired drinks and laid-back tropical vibe. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a taste of modern Hawai‘i.

Tiff’s all-time favorite beverage: Rub Up On My Belly — guava jelly infused Tito’s, pineapple, lime, and yuzu soda 🍍✨

Enjoy a spectacular fireworks show every Friday at 7:45 PM on the beach in front of Hilton Waikiki. You can watch from anywhere along Waikīkī Beach and many nearby resorts. Arrive a little early to find a great spot and soak in the sunset before the show begins. We know this overlaps with our welcome event, so please feel free to stop by, say hello, and head out early if you’d like to catch the fireworks!

Ala Moana is the largest open-air shopping mall in the world and a great place to stroll, browse, and shop ’til you drop! From luxury boutiques to local favorites, it’s the perfect spot to wander, pick up gifts, or just enjoy the lively atmosphere. We also love grocery shopping for the week at Foodland Farms at Ala Moana - it’s our go-to for snacks and some of the best poke bowls!