7 days in town for a couple of first timers.

Question

G’day all, I’m Pete, my partner Therese and I are an early 60s couple from Australia, we will be in Oahu for 7 days in October. It’s mostly about winding down after tripping around the US mainland for 4 weeks previous. We do have a couple of things on our to do list but not lots.

We are staying in Waikiki at the Ilima Hotel for our break, we haven’t really heard a lot about the hotel but we know it has a kitchenette so that’s a plus.

Our basic to do list consists of so far,

North Shore beaches, including shopping, food trucks and anything else that might be of interest. With this visit to the north shore, is it conceivable to be able to do it via public transport, like catching a bus from Waikiki or is that just a silly idea?

Ala Moana Shopping Mall

Kaka’aka Farmers Markets, not too sure about this one, is it just basically a food market or are there general market stalls where we can get some souvenirs as well?

Waikele Premium Outlets, not sure if this is a doable destination going to or from the North Shore?

We do love to connect with locals and fellow forum users when we travel, usually through initial contact via this forum on Trip Advisor for other places we’ve visited in the past, ultimately leading to us meeting when we arrive to our destination then generally connecting as friends. If there are any local Uber or Lyft drivers on this forum we’d love to have a chat with you too.

Cheers,

Pete & Therese.

Answer

Hello Pete & Therese,

It sounds like you have a lovely, relaxed week planned in Oahu. Staying at the Ilima Hotel in Waikiki with a kitchenette is a great choice for a break, allowing you to enjoy simple meals or leftovers from your outings.

Here’s some guidance for your planned activities and a few tips for connecting with locals and making the most of your stay:

North Shore Beaches: The North Shore is a must-see, known for its surf, iconic beaches like Waimea Bay, Sunset Beach, and Banzai Pipeline, as well as food trucks and local shops. While public transport (TheBus) technically can get you there, it is quite a long journey (2–3 hours one way with transfers) and limits your flexibility. For a more comfortable and stress-free experience, renting a car or booking a small guided tour is highly recommended.
Food Trucks & Local Eats: Don’t miss the famous shrimp trucks near Kahuku, like Giovanni’s. You’ll also find shave ice, poke bowls, and other local specialties. Parking near popular beaches can be tight, so plan to arrive early or check nearby public lots.
Ala Moana Shopping Center: This is the largest open-air shopping mall in the world and very accessible from Waikiki. You can take TheBus, Uber, or a short drive. It’s great for both shopping and grabbing a meal in a variety of food courts and restaurants.
Kaka’ako Farmers Market: This is more than just food—there are arts and crafts stalls, local souvenirs, and specialty items. Check the schedule, as some markets are held on specific days. It’s a fun way to connect with local vendors and experience the community vibe.
Waikele Premium Outlets: Located in central Oahu near Waipahu, this outlet mall is about halfway between Waikiki and the North Shore. It’s easier to reach by car or shuttle than by bus. If you’re driving, you could combine this with a North Shore trip on a separate day, but it’s unlikely to be convenient on the same day via public transport.

Other tips for a relaxed week in Oahu:

Consider renting a car even for a few days to make exploring the island easier, especially for the North Shore and Waikele Outlets.
Try to mix in some short walks around Waikiki itself—Duke Kahanamoku Beach, the beachfront promenade, and local markets.
Engage with locals: You might ask your hotel concierge about community events, local food tours, or even surf lessons. The TripAdvisor forum connections often help in arranging casual meetups or guided experiences with locals.
For Uber or Lyft drivers with local knowledge, you can always message in advance or ask the driver for tips—they often know hidden gems not listed in guides.

Overall, your plan for a relaxed week with a mix of scenic drives, local culture, and some shopping sounds perfect for unwinding after a busy mainland tour. Renting a car for a few days will provide flexibility and let you enjoy the North Shore and other attractions without worrying about bus schedules.

Aloha and enjoy your trip!

7 days in town for a couple of first timers.

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