Honolulu airport connection

Honolulu airport connection?
I have been on line trying to get the cheapest flight possible from oakland,ca to lih airport in Hawaii. I think I have a good deal, but I may have to stay 3-4 hrs. in Honolulu airport. Anything in walking distance that could keep me occupied? What is the airport like-coffee shops, etc? Thanks! Actually, I would prefer to fly out of small airport in santa rosa,ca but too expensive with too long a travel time-any ideas? I guess this is 2 questions in one-any info would be much appreciated. Thanks!
Honolulu - 3 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
I don't think I'd leave the airport. There is so much extra security now that it could take you hours to get back through security. There is a nice courtyard in the center of the honolulu airport (it's outdoors) where you can sit in the sun, lay in the grass, and just relax. I'd take my book and enjoy the sunshine.
2 :
Actually you may have to change terminals in Honolulu, the main terminal is for US and International flights, while the small terminal next door is for Inter-Island flights. You can stay at the main terminal but you will be limited to what you can do after you leave secured area. The Inter-island terminal is not that big and limited to what is there as well. Around the area there isn't much to be honest. You can attempt to go to Pearl Harbor or USS Arizona Memorial which is within 15 minutes but getting back there can be a problem.
3 :
Yeah, traffic is too gnarly around HNL to bother trying to leave, especially if you don't know your way around the island. There are several restaurants, coffee shops, internet kiosks, scattered around the various terminals. The one thing that really surprises travelers about HNL is that is permanently open to the outside elements. Instead of a wall of windows where you have to walk between terminals, you have sort of a breezeway with a concrete railing. It's easier to let the various breezes control the temperature than try to shut the climate out. Depending on the class of your ticket, you might be able to move up your interisland flight after you arrive.