You can’t get much better than life in Honolulu! From the exquisite beaches, gorgeous hiking and natural views, and laid-back lifestyle, nothing beats the island life. But it’s not just great to be a human here. Our canine friends are also pretty spoiled!

There are dog-friendly restaurants, beaches, and even more things that you can get out and experience with your dog here in Honolulu. Whether you’re new to Honolulu, or just new to dog ownership, use this as a reference to help you discover the awesome things you can do here with your dog! Keep reading to learn more about dog-friendly Honolulu!

Dog-Friendly Activities In Honolulu

Before you head out for a day with your dog, there are a few safety and etiquette items you should be aware of. 

• Always clean up after your dog. This is important to keep our island as beautiful as it is.
• Bring your dog plenty of water, and don’t let them drink salt water if you hit the beach. 
• Sunscreen their noses and any other hairless areas with a dog-safe sunscreen.
• Keep your dog leashed, unless it’s otherwise posted.
• Only take well-behaved dogs to restaurants.

Dog-Friendly Honolulu Activities

Kahala Beach

Even with a resort nearby, Kahala Beach doesn’t tend to get overcrowded. With multiple access points, there’s plenty of room to spread out. This makes it a great place to take your dog and let them enjoy splashing through the waves. The water tends to stay calm, making it easier for dogs with little legs, and new swimmers. Dogs are allowed access to all areas of Kahala Beach, which also means Kahala Beach is a great spot to get some fun photos of your pup!

Kuliouou Beach

Another great beach! This beach is perfect for water sports like paddle boarding or kayaking since the water is usually calm. Plus, there’s lots of space for a barbecue or picnic. It’s no surprise this is a popular spot for doggie birthday parties!

Manoa Falls- End Of Manoa Rd

This is a short hike that takes you through lush tropical greenery to the beautiful waterfall that is the trail’s namesake. This trail is perfect for dogs and their owners who are beginner hikers. The trail is just over a mile long both ways and does connect to other trail systems. So once you have more experience, you can certainly add on a little challenge too! Plus, we love this trail because, between the greenery and the footbridge, you can get some excellent photos of your dog. Remember to be courteous and stay out of the way of other hikers if you stop to take photos. 

Kaiwi State Shoreline/ Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail- 8751 Kalanianaole Hwy

If you want to take a short hike with your dog, then look no further than the Kaiwi State Shoreline Trail. This 2-mile circuit is a short paved trail, but it is mostly uphill and conditions tend to be windy. From this trail, you can look out upon the Makapu’u Lighthouse, as well as the sweeping shoreline. Make this trail a part of your hiking routine, and visit it during whale watching season to catch a glimpse of the Humpback Whales.

Lanikai Pillbox- 265 Kaelepulu Dr

For the more adventurous, the Kaiwa Ridge Trail, or as it’s more commonly know, the Lanikai Pillbox Trail, is a must do! This 1.7 mile out-and-back hike generally takes just over an hour to complete. And it’s so worth it! At the top, you’ll enjoy a stunning view of the water and coastline.

Honolulu Haunts- 447 S. King Street

Enjoy learning more about the history of Honolulu, and get your dog some exercise, by taking a haunted walking tour. In addition to hearing ghost stories, you’ll learn about culturally significant things in and around Honolulu. You don’t have to be a tourist to enjoy getting a new perspective on Honolulu. And who doesn’t love a spooky story!? Best of all, you’ll have your dog for comfort if things get too scary.

Hawaii Doggie Bakery- 2961C East Manoa Rd

Take your dog out to a bakery where she can select from yummy goodies made just for her! Established in 1998, the Hawaii Doggie Bakery serves up healthy goodies for dogs, using only locally sourced ingredients. Bring your dog and let her decide between Sweet Potato Muffins or Huli Chicken Pullover Rolls. They also make cakes and cupcakes for your dog’s birthday or Gotcha Day. To make sure they have your dog’s favorite treat in stock, we suggest calling and ordering ahead. Oh, and don’t forget to get a candid shot of your dog enjoying their favorite treat… especially if it’s for their birthday!

Honolulu Dog Parks 

Moanalua Dog Park- 2900 Moanalua Rd

If your dog needs some off-leash fun, a trip to Moanalua Dog Park might be just what they need. There is plenty of fenced area for dogs to run and play. Don’t worry if you forgot your dog’s water. There are dog water fountains ready to supply your pup with fresh water. 

Hawaii Kai Dog Park- 234 Keahole St

For more off-leash fun, take your dog to enjoy the 2 grassy acres at the Hawaii Kai Dog Park. There are separate areas for large and small dogs, so you don’t have to worry about dogs of any size being bullied. The park has dog water fountains, and, in case you forgot your own, it also has a supply of poop bags.

Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Honolulu 

Nico’s Pier 38- 1129 N. Nimitz Highway

If you have a craving for fresh seafood, served waterside, then take a trip to Nico’s Pier 38. Your pup can come with you for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and dine with you on the lanai. You can order white rice for your dog while you enjoy an appetizer of Angry Ahi dip or fish bites. Don’t forget to top it off with one of their cocktails or beers on tap. Perfect for a dog-friendly outing with friends or for a peaceful, solo dinner with your dog. 

Sweet E’s Cafe- 1006 Kapahulu Ave

Is there a better way to spend a late morning than sipping coffee and enjoying brunch on the lanai? The only way to make it better is to have your dog with you! Sweet E’s Cafe is family-owned and has an enticing array of breakfast and lunch foods. Dogs are welcome to sit outside with their owners. This is the perfect pre-beach or post early morning hike stop.

Waikiki Brewing– 831 Queen Street

Enjoy a refreshing beer after a day of fun in the sun. Waikiki Brewing has a few different locations, but we love their Kaka’ako location because of its special dog menu! Visit the Furry Friends section of the menu to treat your pup to a delicious meal of their own.

These are just a few of the dog-friendly things you can do in Honolulu! Keep exploring to find out more about what this beautiful city has to offer! Find some favorites of your own? Leave a comment below with your favorite dog-friendly activities and eateries in Honolulu!