Waikiki food

The Best Japanese Restaurants for Lunch and Dinner in Waikiki

Waikiki is known for its great weather, famous surf, and friendly locals. But, we’re here to tell you a little secret: the food scene is extraordinary! The Hawaiian Islands appear as little dots on the map in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. Located about halfway between the mainland United States and Asia, the East meets the West, which is apparent when you sit down to eat! Get ready for mouth-watering gastronomy. You’re in luck if you love Japanese cuisine. It’ll be hard to decide where to eat because there’s no shortage of delicious Japanese restaurants in Waikiki. Whether you’re craving fresh sushi, savory yakitori, or crispy tempura, it’s all here! To help you on your delicious quest, we’ve created this FIRST CABIN INTERNATIONAL HAWAII HOTEL post! Join us as we explore the best Japanese Restaurants in Waikiki for lunch and dinner. The Top 3 Japanese Restaurants for Lunch in Waikiki Take a break from the midday sunshine and sit down for a delicious bite. Here are our top three Japanese restaurants in Waikiki for lunch! Restaurant SUNTORY Honolulu Restaurant Info Address: 2233 Kalākaua Avenue B307, Honolulu Phone Number: (808) 922-5511 Treat yourself to an authentic Japanese dining experience in […]

Waikiki food

Must-Try Food in Waikiki: Food Trucks, Restaurants, Malls, and More

There is an impressive array of Waikiki food waiting to be discovered. In fact, this is one of the best neighborhoods for sampling authentic Hawaiian eats in Honolulu. Significantly influenced by Japanese cuisine, there are also elements from Chinese, Filipino, and Polynesian cultures. Plus, you’ll find plenty of international favorites, from Indian and Mexican to Italian. While strolling the streets and sun-kissed shores, the tantalizing aroma of local delicacies invites one to embark on a gastronomic adventure. The traditional Hawaiian meals are a highlight, from Kalua Pork to Loco Moco. Even the local McDonald’s has its own special menu here. For breakfast, it features items like Portuguese sausage, a rice platter, and spam and eggs. This is a tropical paradise sure to tempt your taste buds. As a staff member at First Cabin International working and living in Waikiki, I often recommend the must-try Waikiki foods to our guests. To help you plan your own itinerary, I’ve put together this guide to eating your way through Waikiki. You’ll find everything from the tastiest Hawaiian dishes to international fare for the ultimate food lover’s experience. Must-Try Foods in Waikiki Deeply rooted in the land and sea, Hawaiian cuisine is known for […]

Waikiki food

Where to Find the Best Vegetarian Restaurants in Waikiki

The Hawaiian Islands boast fresh tropical fruits, bountiful farmers’ markets, and restaurant menus offering vegetarian dishes with locally sourced ingredients. So, whether you’re a vegetarian, or just looking to eat healthy in the islands, you’ll find no shortage of healthy plant-based meals in Waikiki. In this FIRST CABIN INTERNATIONAL HAWAII edition, we share where to find the best vegetarian restaurants in Waikiki. natuRe Waikiki Restaurant Info Address: 413 Seaside Avenue #2F Opening Hours: 5:30 PM – 10:00 PM When you’re looking for a special treat, book a table in the dining room or at the Chef’s Counter to experience the 6-course vegan tasting menu. In the kitchen is Chef Nae Ogawa, known for her fermentation techniques, artistic details, and sustainable approach to dining. The bar area offers an a la carte menu, daily specials, and a casual dining experience. Nalu Health Bar Restaurant Info Address: 226 Lewers St. Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner with fresh, local, and organic ingredients. Try award-winning acai bowls in the heart of Waikiki with vibrantly decorated walls featuring Punky Aloha’s art. There are vegan baked goods, gluten-free options, and tons of vegetarian dishes including juices, smoothies, salads, and […]

Waikiki Experiences

Things to Do on a Rainy Day in Waikiki

The Hawaiian Islands have year-round spectacular weather but every once in a while there are rainy days! Have no fear, a little break from the sunshine is a good thing, and there’s more to do on Waikiki than just go to the beach. In this FIRST CABIN INTERNATIONAL HAWAII post, we’re sharing our top things to do on a rainy day in Hawaii Nei. Food & Beverage Adventures on a Rainy Day in Waikiki Manoa Chocolate Tour 333 Uluniu St #103 Go on a bean-to-bar journey and learn about handcrafted chocolate. Manoa Chocolate has been striving to make the world’s most delicious chocolate using ethically sourced cacao beans since 2010. The Chocolate Tasting Room and Natural Wine Bar in Kailua offers factory tours, educational experiences, live music, and tastings with Chocolate Sommeliers. Tour the chocolate farm on the North Shore, and while you’re up there, check out the neighboring farms like Hua Orchards and Sweet Land Farm! Kohana Rum Tasting 92-1770 Kunia Rd #221 Sip on the locally produced Hawaiian agricole rum at the Kohana Rum Tasting Room. Visit the distillery for rum tastings and explore the sugarcane garden and barrel house. Tours run daily and walk-ins are welcome. After […]

Waikiki Experiences

The Best Boat Tours and Cruises in Waikiki

Discover the magic of the islands from the ocean! Take your vacation to the next level with a boat cruise in Waikiki because there’s nothing like being out on the glistening blue sea. Experience the stunning coastline and picture-perfect views of the iconic Diamond Head from the water during the day, at sunset hour, or for the Friday night fireworks show. There are so many options, so we created this FIRST CABIN INTERNATIONAL HAWAII post to share Waikiki’s best boat tours and cruises. Waikiki Snorkeling Tours & Boat Cruises Snorkel Bob’s Leaves from: Slip F28 Kewalo Basin Harbor. Climb aboard the Honu Lani Catamaran to get up close and personal with honus (green sea turtles). Soak up the sun, relax in the cabin, or jump into the Pacific Ocean to explore the marine life. The boat ventures offshore from Waikiki Beach to Turtle Canyon, and the tour includes a post-cruise picnic lunch with cocktails! This 65-foot catamaran accommodates 30 people and runs daily from 11 am to 2 pm (except Wednesdays). Seeing turtles is guaranteed, so if you don’t, go again, free of charge! Moana’s Sunset Cocktail Sail Hop aboard at: Kewalo Basin Harbor. Moana means ocean in Hawaiian, and […]

Waikiki Nightlife

Where to Find the Best Happy Hours in Waikiki

Who doesn’t love a good Happy Hour deal?! It’s especially nice when you’re on vacation in paradise. In Hawaii, Happy Hour is often called pau hana, which signifies after-work drinks. Waikiki is bursting with restaurants — and we’re here to help you navigate the best ones. This FIRST CABIN INTERNATIONAL HAWAII post highlights the best Happy Hour options in Waikiki. We’ve taste-tested the area’s best to bring you everything from oceanfront eateries and rooftop bars to tasty pupus (appetizers) and tropical cocktails. Best Happy Hour Spots in Waikiki Deck Info Happy Hours: Drinks 2–6 pm, Food 4–6 pm Address: 150 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu Phone: (808) 931-4488 Located on Kapahulu Avenue near the Honolulu Zoo, Deck is an open-air bar and restaurant inside the retro Queen Kapiolani Hotel. It’s famous for having one of the best views of Diamond Head. The Happy Hour menu features wine, beer, cocktails, and food specials. Doraku Info Happy Hours: Mon–Fri 4–6 pm (excluding holidays) Address: 2233 Kalākaua Avenue, Honolulu Phone: (808) 922-3323 This Japanese favorite on the third floor of Royal Hawaiian Center is perfect for sushi, sake, and beach-day recovery. Enjoy hot and cold dishes paired with discounted cocktails, beers, and wines. Herringbone Waikiki […]

Waikiki food

Top Italian Restaurants Near FIRST CABIN in Waikiki: Affordable, View, & Luxury Dining Options

Waikiki is world-famous for its beautiful beaches and vibrant atmosphere. But it goes beyond being a paradise for sun-seekers and watersports lovers. This Honolulu neighborhood is also a culinary hotspot with restaurants serving a wide range of international cuisine—including Italian. From Neapolitan pizzas and traditional pastas to innovative seafood specialties, Waikiki offers something for every Italian food lover. In this guide from FIRST CABIN INTERNATIONAL HAWAII, we highlight the best Italian restaurants near Waikiki—ranging from affordable eats to fine-dining experiences with spectacular views. Affordable Italian Restaurants Near FIRST CABIN in Waikiki Piccola Onda Less than a mile from FIRST CABIN INTERNATIONAL HAWAII, this food truck on Ke’alohilani Ave serves fresh, homemade Italian dishes with a Roman twist. Enjoy pasta with authentic sauces like carbonara or pesto made with macadamia and basil. There’s also outdoor seating with umbrellas if you want to dine al fresco near the Greetings Tour Mural. Allegrini Waikiki Just a quarter-mile away in the Waikiki Food Hall, Allegrini is a casual eatery and Italian goods importer. Expect friendly service and a menu of personal pizzas, lasagna, charcuterie, sandwiches, and salads—all made with high-quality imported ingredients. Brick Fire Tavern Located in nearby Kaimuki (about 3 miles away), this […]

Waikiki Experiences

Where to Find the Best Hikes Near Waikiki

The Hawaiian Islands have it all: glistening ocean waters, lush tropical jungles, and year-round good weather that enables various outdoor activities. Yes, there’s amazing swimming, snorkeling, and surfing—but when you’re craving a break from the sun, head to the mountains! Whether you’re an avid hiker or just hoping to walk in nature, there’s a trail for you. In this First Cabin International Hawaii post, we share the best hikes near Waikiki Beach from jungle loops to impressive waterfalls. So, pack your hiking shoes and reusable water bottles—O’ahu has some incredible hiking trails waiting for you! Waterfall Hikes Near Waikiki Waikiki stretches along O’ahu’s southwestern coast. Although the draw is usually the beach and the ocean, great hiking is nearby—and some trails even lead to waterfalls. Below are three of Oahu’s most popular waterfall hikes. Mānoa Falls Trail This is one of the easiest hikes to reach from Waikiki. Located in the back of Mānoa Valley, this well-maintained trail winds through jungle and bamboo forest, ending at a picturesque waterfall. It’s under two miles and takes about an hour to complete. There’s paid parking and it can be muddy with slight elevation gain. Next door is the Lyon Arboretum, and nearby […]

Waikiki Travel Tips

Waikiki vs. Honolulu: An Overview of Two Iconic Destinations in Hawaii

Whenever Hawaii is the topic of a travel discussion, it’s almost certain that you will hear the words “Honolulu” and “Waikiki” mentioned. They are both located on the island of Oahu and each play a unique role in making Hawaii the ultimate tourist destination. However, they are not quite the same. It’s important to understand the distinction between the two, especially if you are planning to visit Oahu in the future. Let’s explore the key differences and highlight a few characteristics that set them apart from each other. Waikiki vs. Honolulu – What is the Difference? Although the names are often used interchangeably, Waikiki and Honolulu have two very different meanings. Honolulu serves as the capital city of the state of Hawaii and holds the highest population density across all eight islands. It is composed of a number of diverse districts, or neighborhoods, each with their own personality. Among these is the globally recognized Waikiki. The neighborhood of Waikiki is located in the southeastern portion of Honolulu, bordered by the Ala Wai Canal, Kapahulu Avenue, and the Pacific Ocean. It is the center of Hawaii’s tourism industry and is made up of mostly hotel lodging to accommodate for the high […]

Waikiki Travel Tips

Must-Have Apps for a Smooth Trip to Waikiki

If you’re planning a trip to Waikiki, we highly recommend taking advantage of the myriad of Waikiki travel apps available. They can ensure you enjoy the smoothest and most memorable experience possible with apps that will help you before, during, and after your trip. Some of the best can even save the day in nearly any situation you might encounter while in Waikiki. Living and working here in the vibrant Honolulu neighborhood, involved in hospitality and enjoying the many activities and attractions, we’ve used and recommended these apps to visitors frequently. Whether it’s your first time visiting Waikiki or your one hundredth, these travel apps will enhance your stay and make it more seamless. Apps for Navigation & Transportation in Waikiki Shaka Guide If you’ll be driving and want to explore the island, download the Shaka Guide. It offers GPS-based audio tours with engaging narration from local guides, highlighting both hidden gems and major landmarks. Multiple driving tours are available, and they can be downloaded in advance for offline use—a huge bonus if you’re off the grid. Uber and Lyft Both Uber and Lyft are available in Waikiki and beyond. These apps are ideal if you want to skip renting […]