Things To Do
in Oahu
Oahu blends urban energy with pristine natural beauty, from Waikiki's palm-fringed beaches to the rugged North Shore cliffs. Honolulu's rich history, world-class cuisine, and aloha spirit invite outdoor adventures and cultural discoveries alike. Iconic landmarks like Diamond Head, Pearl Harbor, and Hanauma Bay anchor the island's experiences.
With a year-round tropical climate and accessible hikes, snorkeling, and scenic drives, Oahu offers something for every traveler.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Honolulu International Airport and check into your accommodation. Take some time to freshen up and relax after your journey. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, soaking in the island vibes.
Explore the iconic Waikiki Beach, where you can soak up the sun and take a dip in the warm waters. Try your hand at surfing with a beginner lesson or rent a paddleboard to glide across the waves. Take a leisurely stroll along the beachwalk, stopping for boutique shopping or a refreshing drink.
Dinner at a beachfront restaurant offers stunning sunset views over the Pacific. Enjoy local seafood specialties while listening to live Hawaiian music. Conclude your evening with a moonlit walk along the beach, taking in the tranquil sounds of the ocean.
Start your day with an early hike up Diamond Head Crater for magnificent views of Honolulu. The trail is well-marked and takes about an hour to reach the summit. Enjoy the fresh morning air and the blooming native flora along the way.
After descending, head to the nearby Kapiolani Park for a picnic lunch. Spend the afternoon visiting the Honolulu Zoo or the Waikiki Aquarium to learn about native Hawaiian wildlife. Both attractions are family-friendly and offer a relaxing environment.
Enjoy a traditional Hawaiian luau experience for dinner, complete with entertainment and cultural performances. Revel in the sights and sounds as hula dancers and fire breathers showcase their talents. Spend the late evening relaxing at your hotel or taking a nightcap at a local bar.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🥗Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🛏Hotel room (mid-range, per night) | $180-350 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $70-120 |
| 🚆Public transit pass (weekly) | $25-45 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty and beaches
- Welcoming local culture and cuisine
- Varied activities from hiking to snorkeling
- High-quality healthcare and infrastructure
- Strong safety profile for tourists
- Can be crowded in peak seasons and Waikiki
- High costs of living and travel expenses
- Ocean conditions can be unpredictable and hazardous for swimmers
- Traffic congestion in Honolulu; limited dense public transit beyond the island's core
- Environmental concerns and overtourism in some popular spots
- "Aloha" - Hello / goodbye / love
- "Mahalo" - Thank you
- "E komo mai" - Welcome
- "A hui hou" - Until we meet again
- "ʻOhana" - Family
Places to Visit in Oahu
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic volcanic cone with sweeping coastal and Honolulu skyline views from the summit trail.
Golden-hour reflections on the water with Diamond Head silhouette in the distance.
Powdery white sand, turquoise water, and striking offshore islets—especially magical at dawn.
Coastal cliffs, sea caves, and dramatic ocean vistas; lighthouses and migrating whales in season.
Cliffside overlook with dramatic green valleys and a sweeping view of windward Oahu.
Colorful surf shops, mural backdrops, and rugged shoreline scenery.
Food in Oahu
Oahu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Diced raw fish (usually tuna) seasoned with soy, sesame, onions, and chili; served over rice or as a side.
Must-Try!
A hearty plate with rice, a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and brown gravy.
Slow-cooked, smoky shredded pork traditionally cooked in an underground imu; often served with poi or cabbage.
Sweet-savory soy-based chicken dish popular at local plate lunch spots.
Grilled spam on rice wrapped with nori; a staple snack and quick bite.
Two scoops of rice, meat choice, and mac salad—a quintessential island meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant mix of local and international eats near Ala Moana Center, from poke to poke bowls.
Large open-air market with local crafts, foods, and souvenirs on Saturdays and Sundays.
Trendy market with food stalls and local shops featuring island flavors.
Covered market stalls offering poke bowls, fresh seafood, and island snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet others with warmth and respect; kindness and patience go a long way.
Obey signs at heiau, beaches, and other sacred sites; avoid climbing on protected lava rocks.
Many Hawaiian homes and some shops/heiau prefer shoes removed before entering.
Safety
Tipping in Oahu
Ensure a smooth experience
Restaurants generally add a service charge or expect 15-20% tipping; hotel staff and tour guides appreciate 5-10% tips. Tipping is discretionary for casual services.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Bright, warm days with consistent trade winds; ideal for snorkeling, beach days, and sunset sails. Expect water temperatures in the mid-70s to low 80s °F.
Warmer, wetter months with bigger swells on the North Shore; great for big-wave watching and fewer crowds at some sites, but swimming on south shores can be rough.
Pleasant shoulder season with blooming landscapes and fewer visitors; good for hiking and city exploration.
Continued warm weather and shoulder-season crowds; often good surf conditions and milder rainfall.
Oahu at Night
Hiking in Oahu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Historic crater hike offering sweeping views of Honolulu and the coastline.
Lush rainforest trail with a 150-foot waterfall; relatively easy but muddy after rain.
Green canyon views and ocean panoramas; a longer, moderate hike.
Secluded coastal trail at the western tip of Oahu; wildlife viewing and rugged scenery.
Airports
How to reach Oahu by plane.
Primary gateway to Oahu, located in Honolulu; rental cars, taxis, shuttles, and ride-share services provide easy access to the city.
Small, regional airport on the west side; serves private planes and some charter flights; limited commercial service.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the population with deep-rooted cultural traditions.
Large populations of Japanese, Filipino, Chinese, Korean residents contribute to a diverse cultural and culinary scene.
Widely represented across the island with a broad mix of backgrounds.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Hawaii's signature sport with famous waves along the North Shore; many lessons and waves for all levels.
Several world-class courses, including Waialae Country Club and the Ko Olina course; a popular recreational option.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Oahu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most spots offer veggie plates or can customize with tofu/veggies; request no fish sauces and check for dashi/bonito.