A 3-Day Stay at Halekulani on Oʻahu
At the heart of every remarkable hotel experience is someone working behind the scenes to make the impossible possible. For Halekulani Chef Concierge David Nakamura that’s just another day on the job. With an unwavering commitment to service, Nakamura takes pride in going above and beyond for his guests. He and his dedicated team work diligently to ensure that each guest has a memorable experience.
What sets Halekulani apart isn’t just the stunning ocean views or luxury accommodations—it’s the people. ”What truly makes this hotel special is the attention and care we provide each guest,” Nakamura said. “This genuine care can only come from the best staff the industry can provide. It is truly the staff that brings this hotel to life.”
Nakamura’s roots run deep in the islands. Born and raised on Kauaʻi, he brings an authentic sense of aloha to everything he does. Now based on Oʻahu, David balances his busy professional life with time spent with family. His favorite thing about living in Hawaiʻi is the people and the weather.
As Chef Concierge at Halekulani, Nakamura helps guests discover the best of Oʻahu. This is how he recommends spending three perfect days here.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Waikīkī Wonders & Cultural Gems
Today you'll stroll the beach and visit art galleries, the zoo and Waikīkī Aquarium.
Check into Halekulani
Settle into your oceanfront oasis and enjoy a light lunch at House Without A Key, Halekulani’s poolside restaurant. Try Joy’s Special – the hotel’s signature crab, bacon, and avocado sandwich, paired with a refreshing Halekulani Mai Tai.
Green Room Art Gallery at the Queen Kapiolani Hotel
Photo by Sarah Burchard.
Grab a pastry at Halekulani Bakery and stroll along Waikīkī Beach with Lēʻahi (Diamond Head crater) as your backdrop. Visit the Green Room Art Gallery at the Queen Kapiolani Hotel, showcasing a vibrant collection of contemporary art featuring surf and Hawaiian culture art by local and international artists.
Honolulu Zoo and Waikīkī Aquarium
Honolulu Zoo. Photo by Tor Johnson / Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority.
Grab a bite at Waikīkī Beachside Bistro, a casual, walk-up eatery steps from the sand known for its pineapple slushy and garlic shrimp.
Then, explore the Honolulu Zoo, home to over 1,200 animals and more than 120 species, such as black rhinos and komodo dragons. Across the street is the Waikīkī Aquarium, home to Hawaiian marine life, coral reefs, and educational exhibits.
Dinner at Orchids
Photo by Mathieu Duchier / Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority.
Dine at Orchids, Halekulani’s Mediterranean-inspired restaurant. Request a Diamond Head view to enjoy live music and hula from House Without A Key next door.
- Address
- 2199 Kālia Rd, Honolulu, HI 96815
Day 2: North Shore Escape
Today you'll visit the Dole Plantation and tour Haleʻiwa Shrimp Trucks and Surf Spots. Afterward, return to Halekulani and unwind with in-room dining—a well-deserved treat after a full day of adventure.
Dole Plantation and Haleʻiwa Town
Waimea Valley Falls. Photo by Sarah Burchard.
- Head out early for a day on the North Shore. Stop at the Dole Plantation for a garden stroll, train ride, and maze adventure. Don’t miss the original Dole Whip and pineapple-themed souvenirs. Bring cash, sunscreen, and an appetite!
- Explore Haleʻiwa Town, a charming surf village full of local shops, art galleries, and food trucks.
- Cool off with a famous Matsumoto’s Shave Ice—try the Hawaiian Special or local favorite with azuki beans and condensed milk. Visit Polu Gallery for surf-inspired art and gifts.
- Grab lunch at a shrimp truck—Romy’s or the iconic Giovanni’s are excellent choices.
- Wander through Waimea Valley Botanical Gardens and take a dip beneath the waterfall.
- On the way back, cruise past Sunset Beach and Banzai Pipeline, legendary surf spots that are calm and swimmable in summer but awe-inspiring in winter.
Day 3: Art, Architecture & Leisure
Today you'll tour a famous heiress's palace of Islamic art, get a massage and finish the evening with dinner and drinks at Halekulani.
Visit Shangri La
Shangri La Museum of Islamic Art, Culture & Design. Photo by Sarah Burchard.
Visit the Shangri La Museum of Islamic Art, Culture & Design for a stunning oceanfront experience of Islamic art and architecture. Book reservations in advance.
Lunch and Massage
Photo by John Hook / Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority.
Treat yourself to hand-pulled fresh udon at Marukame Udon in Waikīkī. Then relax by the Halekulani pool or indulge in a massage at SpaHalekulani.
Dinner and Jazz
Lewers Lounge, Halekulani. Photo by Sarah Burchard.
Savor a world-class dinner at La Mer, Hawaiʻi’s longest-running AAA Five Diamond and Forbes 5-Star restaurant, where French culinary artistry meets island elegance. Finish the evening with a night cap at Lewers Lounge. The jazz pianist starts playing at 8:30 p.m.
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