Honolulu is a year-round destination with daytime highs around 80-88°F (27-31°C) and warm water always. The driest, sunniest stretch is roughly April through October, while November through March brings more rain showers, bigger North Shore surf, and humpback whales offshore (peak whale-watching is January to March). Peak crowds and prices hit from mid-December through early January and again in summer; the shoulder seasons of late April to early June and September to early November offer better rates and thinner crowds. Time a trip around the Honolulu Festival in March or the Lantern Floating Hawaii ceremony on Memorial Day for something memorable.

Most visitors arrive at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL), about 20-30 minutes west of Waikiki; a taxi or rideshare runs roughly $30-45, while the airport shuttle and Skyline rail (with a transfer) are cheaper. Waikiki itself is very walkable, and TheBus is reliable and cheap (a HOLO card day pass is about $7.50). To explore the North Shore, windward coast, or do a circle-island loop you'll want a rental car, though parking in Waikiki is pricey (often $35-60 a night at hotels). Rideshare is plentiful in town; skip renting a car if you plan to stay put in Waikiki and take guided tours for the far-flung sights.