SpaHalekulani. Courtesy of Halekulani.
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.
David Nakamura. Courtesy of Halekulani.
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.
Three Perfect Days on Oʻahu with Halekulani as Your Hub
Day 1: Waikīkī Wonders & Cultural Gems
Morning: Beach Walk + Art Gallery
- Check in at Halekulani and settle into your oceanfront oasis.
- 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.
- Stroll along Waikīkī Beach with Diamond Head 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.
Afternoon: Beach Bites and Wildlife
- Grab a bite at Waikīkī Beachside Bistro, a casual, walk-up eatery steps from the sand known for its pineapple slushy and garlic shrimp.
- 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.
Evening: Mediterranean Dinner
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.
House without a Key. Courtesy of Halekulani.
Day 2: North Shore Escape
Morning: Dole Plantation and Haleʻiwa Town
- 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.
Afternoon: Shrimp and Surf Spots
- 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.
*Or package it with a Waimea Valley Waterfall Swim & Dole Plantation Tour with Lunch
Evening: Down Time
Return to Halekulani and unwind with in-room dining—a well-deserved treat after a full day of adventure.
Waimea Falls. Courtesy of Shutterstock.
Day 3: Art, Architecture & Leisure
Morning: Visit the Shangri La Museum of Islamic Art (reserve in advance) for a stunning oceanfront experience of Islamic art and architecture.
Afternoon: Local Lunch and Architecture
- Enjoy lunch and a 100% Kona coffee at Island Vintage Coffee at Royal Hawaiian Center. Choose from an array of açaí bowls, poke, or garlic ahi. Or hop in line at Marugame Udon (don’t worry, it moves fast!) for fresh, handmade noodles and tempura.
- Tour the Liljestrand House, a stunning mid-century modern architectural gem in the hills above Honolulu. Designed by renowned architect Vladimir Ossipoff in the 1950s, the impeccably preserved home offers sweeping views of the city and the ocean.
Afternoon: Spa Day
Relax by the Halekulani pool or indulge in treatment at SpaHalekulani. Try the Vibroacoustic Experience, Zero Gravity Pedicure, or a personalized Scalp Therapy session.
Evening: Luxury Sendoff
- Begin your evening with a cocktail at L’Aperitif, Waikīkī’s best-kept secret.
- Then, 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. An elegant ending to three days in paradise.
La Mer. Courtesy of Halekulani.
