Kaimuki

This hidden gem just outside of Waikīkī has cute boutiques, popular restaurants and the biggest farmers market on the island. About 2 miles outside of Waikīkī is the charming town of Kaimukī. One of the oldest communities on Oʻahu, Kaimukī (pronounced ky-moo-kee) was once the site of King Kalākaua’s ostrich farm. The first road paved here was Waiʻalae Avenue—still the main thoroughfare—in 1925. It’s now a bustling little town with some of Oʻahu’s best restaurants, bakeries, coffee shops and boutiques. And somehow it has still managed to retain its historical charm. (Though there aren’t any ostriches anymore!) Here are some must-not-miss things to do in Kaimukī.

Crack seed—really, preserved fruits—is a beloved snack in Hawaiʻi. But there aren’t as many of these shops anymore. Kaimukī Crack Seed Store has been around for over four decades, selling li hing mui, dried lemon peel, licorice plum, shredded mango and other favorites in large glass jars. Another popular item: strawberry Icee slush with a dusting of li hing powder.

The largest of all the farmers markets on Oʻahu, the KCC Farmers Market boasts dozens of vendors selling everything from fresh produce to local honey to Big Island-grown abalone. Everything sold here—jams, coffee, cut flowers, veggies, sausages—are locally grown or produced, or use local ingredients. That’s a requirement by the Hawaiʻi Farm Bureau Federation, which operates this Saturday morning market.

The 1.8-mile trek to the top of Lēʻahi, commonly known as Diamond Head, is one of the most popular hikes in the state. Listed as a National Natural Landmark, the park experienced a record-breaking 6,000 visitors in one day during the winter of 2019. To control overcrowding, the state now requires advanced reservations for out-of-state visitors. Residents of Hawaiʻi can continue to access the park without reservations, but entry will be dependent on parking availability. It’s a fun, fairly easy hike, and the panoramic views of the island’s southern coastline are breathtaking.

Kaimuki is centrally located just 10 minutes to downtown and within biking distance to some of the best colleges and schools in the islands.