8 Best-Selling Honolulu Travel Guide Books Millions Love

Explore top Honolulu Travel Guide Books recommended by renowned experts like Craig McLachlan and Martha Cheng, blending proven insights with best-selling popularity.

Updated on June 24, 2025
We may earn commissions for purchases made via this page

There's something special about books that both critics and crowds love, especially when it comes to Honolulu travel. These eight best-selling guides have earned their place by helping countless travelers unlock the island's unique culture, vibrant neighborhoods, and hidden gems. Whether you're drawn to iconic Waikiki beaches, local eateries, or authentic cultural experiences, these books provide trusted, proven guidance.

Seasoned travelers and experts like Craig McLachlan, whose work with Lonely Planet has shaped how many explore Honolulu, and Martha Cheng, a former Honolulu Magazine food editor deeply rooted in the island’s culture, have championed these titles. Their recommendations come from direct experience and a passion for showcasing Oahu beyond the surface.

While these popular books provide proven frameworks, readers seeking content tailored to their specific Honolulu travel needs might consider creating a personalized Honolulu Travel Guide book that combines these validated approaches with your unique interests and goals.

Best for immersive local culture insights
Lonely Planet, a renowned travel media company since 1973, brings you this authoritative guide to Honolulu, Waikiki, and Oahu. Drawing on over four decades of experience and a global community of travelers, this book compiles trusted, up-to-date information to help you navigate Hawaii's popular spots and off-the-beaten-path experiences alike. Their commitment to thorough research and cultural respect makes this guide a reliable companion for any traveler seeking an authentic Hawaiian adventure.
Lonely Planet Honolulu Waikiki & Oahu (Travel Guide) book cover

by Craig McLachlan, Ryan Ver Berkmoes··You?

2021·320 pages·Hawaii Travel Guide, Honolulu Travel Guide, Oahu Travel Guide, Travel, Local Guides

Lonely Planet's decades of travel expertise culminate in this guide focused on Honolulu, Waikiki, and Oahu, offering precise, updated advice tailored to diverse traveler needs. You’ll find detailed itineraries, insider tips on navigating local culture, and candid reviews covering everything from dining to hidden gems, helping you experience both popular attractions and quieter spots. The book balances practical info like transit and prices with cultural insights into Hawaii's history, music, and cuisine, enabling you to engage deeply with the locale. Whether you’re planning a first trip or returning for a fresh perspective, the guide equips you to customize your journey effectively.

View on Amazon
Best for detailed cultural and practical tips
Fodor's Travel Guides has built its reputation over 80 years by collaborating with local experts worldwide, ensuring travelers receive reliable, tailored advice. This edition on Oahu continues that tradition, offering detailed maps, cultural insights, and practical tips to help you make the most of your visit to Honolulu, Waikiki, and the North Shore.
2022·256 pages·Honolulu Travel Guide, Oahu Travel Guide, Hawaii Travel Guide, Travel, Local Culture

Fodor's Travel Guides brings decades of experience to this detailed exploration of Oahu, blending practical travel tips with rich cultural insights. You’ll find expertly curated itineraries, over 15 detailed maps including a pull-out map, and vivid color photos that truly capture the island’s essence. The book dives into more than sightseeing, offering historical context and local perspectives on everything from Hawaiian traditions to cuisine. Whether you’re planning to surf the North Shore or explore Pearl Harbor, this guide equips you with the knowledge to tailor your visit effectively.

View on Amazon
Best for tailored travel plans
This AI-created book on Honolulu travel mastery is written based on your background, interests, and travel goals. You share what aspects of Honolulu you want to explore and your experience level, and the book is tailored to focus on the places, culture, and activities that matter most to you. It makes sense for travel because everyone’s ideal island experience is unique, and this book helps you dive deep into Oahu in a way that fits your personal journey.
2025·50-300 pages·Honolulu Travel Guide, Honolulu Travel, Island Culture, Local Cuisine, Hidden Attractions

This tailored book on Honolulu travel mastery explores proven methods to experience the island authentically and efficiently, combining popular knowledge with insights matched to your interests. It covers essential aspects such as cultural immersion, local dining, hidden spots, and mindful itinerary planning to help you delve beyond typical tourist paths. By focusing on your background and travel goals, this personalized guide reveals how to navigate Honolulu’s neighborhoods and landmarks with confidence and curiosity. It balances foundational travel tips with unique, reader-validated knowledge tailored to your preferences, making your journey both rich and well-paced. Discover how customization enhances your connection with Oahu’s vibrant culture and natural beauty.

Tailored Guide
Authentic Experience Methods
1,000+ Happy Readers
Best for sustainable and budget travel planning
AA. VV. is a collective of authors and travel experts who contribute to the Lonely Planet series, providing insights and recommendations for travelers. Their extensive experience shines through in this guide, which combines colorful photography with practical planning tools to help you discover the real O‘ahu beyond the typical tourist paths.
2012·352 pages·Honolulu Travel Guide, Oahu Travel Guide, Hawaii Travel Guide, Travel, Local Travel

Unlike most Honolulu travel guides that skim the surface of popular tourist spots, this book pulls you deeper into the island’s authentic experiences. Crafted by AA. VV., a team of seasoned travel experts behind Lonely Planet, it offers detailed insights into everything from vibrant beaches to hidden trails, supported by honest reviews and practical itineraries. You'll find chapters dedicated to sustainable travel and budget-friendly tips, making it useful whether you're planning a luxury getaway or an adventurous budget trip. If you want a guide that balances must-see sights with lesser-known adventures, this book fits the bill perfectly.

View on Amazon
Best for quick, on-the-go neighborhood guides
Lonely Planet has been a trusted name in travel since 1973, inspiring generations with detailed guides that go beyond the usual tourist paths. Their expertise shines through in this pocket-sized Honolulu guide, designed to help you uncover both iconic sights and hidden local treasures. Crafted to fit your pace and interests, it’s a handy companion whether you’re exploring Waikiki or venturing into Downtown Honolulu.
Lonely Planet Pocket Honolulu 1 (Travel Guide) book cover

by Craig McLachlan··You?

2015·160 pages·Honolulu Travel Guide, Pacific Travel Guide, Hawaii Travel Guide, Travel, Local Guides

After years of inspiring travelers worldwide, Lonely Planet crafted this pocket guide to offer you a compact yet rich exploration of Honolulu. You’ll find practical neighborhood breakdowns, such as detailed itineraries for Chinatown and the Upper Manoa Valley, alongside essential info like transit tips and honest budget reviews. The book's strength lies in balancing the must-see highlights with lesser-known gems, helping you tailor your trip whether you have a day or a weekend. If you want a travel companion that fits in your pocket and cuts through tourist noise, this guide suits casual explorers and repeat visitors alike.

View on Amazon
Best for focused highlights and top experiences
Jeffrey Kennedy's "Top 10 Honolulu and Oahu" stands out in Honolulu Travel Guide collections by offering a streamlined approach to exploring the island’s highlights. Its popularity stems from helping travelers focus on the best sights and experiences without getting lost in exhaustive listings. The guide covers everything from iconic beaches to authentic Hawaiian and Pacific Rim cuisine, making it useful for visitors wanting to make the most of limited time. This book’s practical layout and curated recommendations provide an accessible entry point for discovering Honolulu and Oahu’s unique offerings.
Top 10 Honolulu and Oahu (Eyewitness Top 10 Travel Guide) book cover

by Jeffrey Kennedy·You?

2004·128 pages·Honolulu Travel Guide, Oahu Travel Guide, Travel, Local Culture, Beaches

Jeffrey Kennedy offers a focused look at Honolulu and Oahu that goes beyond typical travel guides by zeroing in on top experiences rather than overwhelming you with choices. You’ll find well-curated tips for must-see sights, from iconic beaches to standout Hawaiian and Pacific Rim dining spots, which helps you plan your days without second-guessing. This book suits travelers who want a straightforward, efficient guide that respects their time and highlights local culture and cuisine. For example, its chapters on Waikiki’s beaches and culinary scene are packed with insights that help you decide where to spend your time for the best payoff.

View on Amazon
Best for personalized travel plans
This personalized AI book about Honolulu travel is created based on your interests, current travel experience, and specific goals for exploring Oahu. By combining popular knowledge with your unique preferences, this custom guide offers a focused, step-by-step 30-day plan tailored to your pace and passions. Instead of generic advice, you get a travel companion that matches your style and helps you make the most of your month on this vibrant island.
2025·50-300 pages·Honolulu Travel Guide, Oahu Exploration, Honolulu Culture, Beach Activities, Hiking Trails

This tailored book explores the vibrant island of Oahu through a personalized 30-day itinerary designed to match your interests, background, and travel goals. It covers essential aspects of Honolulu’s culture, natural beauty, and hidden gems, weaving together popular recommendations with insights tailored specifically to your preferences. You’ll discover step-by-step daily plans that balance iconic sights with unique experiences, ensuring your month on the island is engaging and fulfilling. This personalized approach brings you a travel guide that focuses on your individual journey, enabling deeper connections with the places you visit and a more immersive exploration of Oahu’s diverse offerings.

Tailored Guide
Personalized Itinerary
3,000+ Books Created
Best for immersive daily itineraries
Martha Cheng came to Hawaii initially for personal reasons and stayed captivated by its food, ocean, and people. With a rich background as the former food editor of Honolulu Magazine and experience spanning from culinary arts to tech, she crafts this guide blending local insight and practical advice. Her years living in Hawaii and writing extensively about its culture and landscapes make this book a trusted companion for anyone wanting to experience Oahu beyond the usual tourist paths.
2017·216 pages·Honolulu Travel Guide, Hawaii Travel Guide, Travel, Itinerary Planning, Local Culture

What started as Martha Cheng's personal love for Hawaii evolved into a detailed guide that helps you get the most out of your time on Oahu. As a long-time resident and former food editor of Honolulu Magazine, Cheng offers daily itineraries that cover popular spots like Waikiki Beach and Pearl Harbor, as well as less obvious treasures such as rainforest hikes and cultural experiences. You’ll find practical advice on everything from dining and lodging options across budgets to navigating the island’s diverse landscapes. This book suits travelers seeking a well-rounded, immersive visit rather than just a checklist of attractions.

View on Amazon
Best for authentic local travel tips
Greater Than a Tourist- Honolulu Hawaii USA stands out by offering a fresh angle on travel guides: it delivers insider tips from a local’s perspective rather than conventional tourist advice. This approach has resonated widely, capturing the interest of travelers who want to dive beneath the surface of Honolulu’s well-trodden paths. The book encourages you to slow down and immerse yourself in local culture, providing practical tools like packing lists and self-reflective travel questions to personalize your experience. Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning traveler, this guide aims to enrich your journey through meaningful connections and thoughtful preparation.
2019·100 pages·Honolulu Travel Guide, Tourist Destination, Hawaii Travel Guide, Travel, Local Culture

What started as a desire to share genuine local insights led Garrett Garcia to create a travel guide that flips the usual tourist handbook on its head. Rather than focusing on popular spots or strict itineraries, this book offers 50 practical tips drawn from firsthand experience living in Honolulu, emphasizing authentic cultural connections and thoughtful travel habits. You’ll find suggestions on slowing down and engaging with the community, plus tools like packing lists and travel questions to tailor your journey. If you want more than surface-level sightseeing and prefer a deeper, more personal approach to exploring Honolulu, this book will fit your style perfectly.

View on Amazon
Best for concise sightseeing and shopping highlights
This Honolulu Travel Guide stands out by offering a clear and accessible pathway through the city’s diverse offerings, from its bustling Waikiki Beach to serene parks and museums. Its appeal lies in the straightforward presentation of essential sightseeing highlights, restaurants, and shopping destinations, making it a go-to for travelers seeking reliable, no-frills information. The guide’s structure addresses both newcomers and budget-conscious visitors, helping you experience Honolulu’s unique blend of fast-paced urban life and island tranquility with confidence.
2015·34 pages·Honolulu Travel Guide, Oahu Travel Guide, Hawaii Travel Guide, Travel, Local Guides

What started as a personal challenge to capture Honolulu's vibrant spirit became Maria Gill's focused exploration of the city's iconic spots and hidden gems. This concise guide offers you a curated tour through Honolulu's culture, shopping, dining, and natural attractions, including Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head State Monument, and the historic Iolani Palace. You'll find practical orientation tips along with detailed recommendations for budget travelers, making it easier to navigate and enjoy the city's fast-paced yet relaxed atmosphere. If you're planning a visit to Honolulu and want a straightforward, well-organized roadmap, this book provides exactly that without overwhelming detail.

View on Amazon

Proven Honolulu Guides, Personalized for You

Get expert-backed travel methods that fit your unique Honolulu adventure perfectly.

Tailored travel plans
Expert recommendations
Efficient trip planning

Validated by expert travelers and thousands of readers worldwide

Honolulu Travel Mastery
30-Day Honolulu Explorer
Oahu Travel Foundations
Honolulu Success Blueprint

Conclusion

This collection of eight Honolulu Travel Guide books reveals three clear themes: expert-curated highlights, authentic local insights, and practical itineraries that have stood the test of time. If you prefer proven methods, start with the detailed cultural perspectives of "Lonely Planet Honolulu Waikiki & Oahu" or the focused itineraries in "Frommer's Honolulu and Oahu day by day." For validated approaches that combine authenticity and efficiency, pairing "GREATER THAN A TOURIST- HONOLULU HAWAII USA" with "Top 10 Honolulu and Oahu" offers a balanced view.

For those wanting a more personalized approach, you can create a personalized Honolulu Travel Guide book to combine proven methods with your unique needs, ensuring your trip reflects your pace and passions.

These widely-adopted guides have helped many travelers experience Honolulu in meaningful ways—making your own journey richer starts with the right book in hand.

Frequently Asked Questions

I'm overwhelmed by choice – which Honolulu guidebook should I start with?

Start with "Lonely Planet Honolulu Waikiki & Oahu" for a balanced mix of local culture and practical tips. It's great for first-timers looking to build a solid foundation before diving deeper.

Are these books suitable for someone new to Honolulu travel?

Yes, books like "Top 10 Honolulu and Oahu" and "Frommer's Honolulu and Oahu day by day" offer accessible guides with clear itineraries ideal for newcomers.

Can I skip around or do I need to read these guides cover to cover?

Most guides are designed for flexible use—dip into sections like dining, beaches, or neighborhoods as you prefer without reading front to back.

Which books focus more on authentic local experiences versus tourist highlights?

"GREATER THAN A TOURIST- HONOLULU HAWAII USA" and "Discover Honolulu, Waikiki & Oahu" emphasize local culture and sustainable travel, steering you off the beaten path.

Are these travel guides still relevant despite changes in Honolulu's landscape?

Absolutely. Recent editions like "Fodor's Oahu" (2022) and "Lonely Planet Honolulu Waikiki & Oahu" (2021) reflect current conditions and evolving cultural insights.

How can I get a Honolulu travel guide tailored specifically to my interests?

While these expert books provide great foundations, a personalized Honolulu Travel Guide book can combine proven strategies with your unique goals and preferences. Learn more here.

📚 Love this book list?

Help fellow book lovers discover great books, share this curated list with others!