As the most-visited and most-populated of the Hawaiian Islands, Oahu is fittingly nicknamed the “Gathering Place.” Drawing over three million visitors each year, Oahu is home to iconic sites like Waikiki Beach, Pearl. Harbor, and Diamond Head Crater. For those looking for a city-meets-island escape, Honolulu is an ideal destination full of nightlife and mouth-watering restaurants. Oahu is so much more than a city destination. Venture outside of Honolulu and you’ll find incredible hikes, picture-perfect beaches, and laid-back island towns. From hiking Diamond Head Crater Trial to shark diving, here are the 15 best things to do on Oahu!
Read Which Hawaiian Island is Best to Visit to learn more about the Hawaiian Islands.
Waikiki Beach
High-rise hotels and designer stores line the glittering shores of the world-famous Waikiki Beach. For centuries Waikiki Beach has served as a playground for lovers of the tropics—basking in the bright sun and the cool surf. This picture-perfect two-mile stretch of beach offers endless activities—swimming, surfing, shopping, and sunset-watching to name a few. With a high concentration of restaurants, shops, and hotels, the area is a popular destination for visitors looking for a more urban Hawaiian escape.
Pearl Harbor
Pearl Harbor National Memorial commemorates the December 7th, 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor. A pivotal moment in U.S. history, the surprise military strike by Imperial Japan triggered the United States’ entry into World War II. It’s no surprise that Pearl Harbor is the number one attraction in Hawaii. The National Park Service site consists of four main components.
- USS Arizona Memorial is built over the sunken remains of its namesake battleship and marks the final resting spot of over 1,100 soldiers. Reservations are required for visiting the memorial via boat.
- Battleship Missouri Memorial is a decommissioned battleship for visitors to tour to learn about the Missouri’s role in World War II and life on a battleship. Weighing 45,000 tons and stretching 900 feet in length, the mighty ship is best known as the location where Japan formally surrendered in 1945.
- Pacific Aviation Museum is home to over 50 historic military aircrafts exhibited in two WWII era hangars. The museum also serves to illustrate the advancements in American military aviation over the past century.
- USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park allows visitors to explore a partially submerged naval submarine. The USS Bowfin was a force to be reckoned with, having sank dozens of ships during World War II.
Diamond Head Crater Trail
Diamond Head Crater is one of Hawaii’s most recognizable landmarks. The iconic crater, known as Lē’ahi in Hawaiian, formed around 300,000 years ago from a single violent eruption of the Ko’olau Volcano. Situated just south of Honolulu, the crater also has military significance as the US Government purchased the site in 1904 to fortify and use as a military base. Hiking the Diamond Head Crater Trail is a must-do on any visit to Oahu. A paved 1.8 miles out-and-back trail traverses the edge of the crater with panoramic views of Oahu and its sparkling shores. Reservations are required along with a $5 entry fee for non-Hawaii residents. Click here to make reservations for Diamond Head.
Hanauma Bay
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is one of the best places to snorkel on Oahu. Formed within a volcanic cone, the protected marine reserve features a stunning coral reef and vibrant marine life. Over 450 species of fish along with sea turtles call Hanauma Bay home! With lifeguards on duty and calm waters, the bay is ideal for all types of snorkelers. Open to the public Wednesday through Sunday, the state limits the number of visitors to protect the marine life. Reservations required. Note there is a $3 entry fee and $25 parking fee. Click here to make reservations.
North Shore Surf
Oahu’s North Shore is a legendary surfing mecca that attracts surfers from all over the world. The seven-mile stretch contains celebrated surf locations like Waimea Bay and Ehukai Beach (the Banzai Pipeline). During the winter months, the impressive waves reach heights of 30 feet. One of the most prestigious surfing competitions, Vans Triple Crown of Surfing, is held on Oahu in December and January. Take a stroll along the North Shore beaches and watch professional surfers tackle the mighty waves. And, if you’re feeling inspired, head to the quieter waters of the Oahu’s South Shore for a surfing lesson of your own.
Lanikai & Kailua Beaches
Away from the hustle and bustle of Honolulu on the windward side of the island are Lanikai and Kailua Beaches. Lanikai, which translates to ‘heavenly ocean,’ is the most beautiful beach on Oahu. With powdery white sand, vibrant blue waters, and views of offshore islands, Lanikai Beach is about as serene as beaches come. Parking at Lanikai Beach can be difficult due to its residential location. Nearby Kailua Beach is more accessible with designated parking lots and public facilities. Both are perfect for beach days!
Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden
Spread out over 400 acres, Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden features plants from tropical regions around the world. The lush garden is located at the base of the Ko’olau Mountains which makes for incredible views everywhere you look. The botanical collections are grouped together geographically and include plants from exotic locales like India, Africa, and the Philippines. At its entrance, you might recognize the park access road for its iconic view of the mountains and greenery. Stroll through the different regions or drive through the park and enjoy the variety of plants and jaw-dropping views. Entrance into the park is free.
Iolani Palace
One of the most impressive buildings on Oahu is the Iolani Palace in Honolulu. Completed in 1882, the palace was the royal residence for Hawaiian monarchs. Both King Kalakaua and his successor Queen Liliuokalani ruled here. Not long after the building’s completion, the monarchy was overthrown in 1893 and the palace became the new Provisional Government’s headquarters. Later on, the Iolani Palace acted as the government capitol building for the Republic, Territory, and State of Hawaii. Now the beautiful palace is a National Historic Landmark and a great place to learn about the history and culture of Hawaii!
Koko Crater Railway Trail
The steep trail involves hiking up an abandoned railroad track to the top of Koko Head Crater. While the hike is only 1.6 miles out and back, it requires climbing over 1,000 stairs for an elevation gain of nearly 900 feet. The challenging hike is well worth the effort as the top of the crater offers panoramic views of Hanauma Bay, Hawaii Kai, and even Honolulu’s skyline off in a distance. Once you reach to the top relax on the abandoned military bunkers and enjoy the views!
Polynesian Culture Center Luau
Situated on 42 acres along the northern shore of Oahu, the Polynesian Culture Center is one of the top attractions on Oahu. The center is home to six different villages that exhibit the cultures of various Polynesian Islands like Hawaii, Tahiti, Fiji, Aotearoa, Samoa, and Tonga. The highlight at the Polynesian Culture Center is the Ali’i Luau Buffer and “Ha: Breath of Life” show. The evening show features over 100 Polynesian performers united by fire, song, and dance. This is one of the best luaus and shows on the island! During a day visit, explore the island villages and shop the Hukilau Marketplace.
Manoa Falls Trail
The Manoa Falls Trail snakes through the lush tropical jungle ending at an impressive 150-foot waterfall. Located in Manoa Valley just outside of Honolulu, the trail is 1.6 miles out and back and takes about an hour to complete. Because of its close proximity to Honolulu and rewarding views, Manoa Falls is an extremely popular trail. Make sure to wear sturdy shoes as the trail can get slippery and bring mosquito repellent. The parking fee is $7.
Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail
Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail winds along Oahu’s southeastern coast. The trail highlights incredible views of sea cliffs, a lighthouse, and Oahu’s coast. The paved trail runs 2.5 miles out and back while taking just over an hour to complete. The trail’s accessibility makes it a popular hike for all types of travelers. In the winter months, keep your eyes peeled for humpback wales off the coast!
Nu’uanu Pali Lookout
One of the best scenic lookouts on Oahu is Nu’uana Pali. Resting at an elevation of 1,000 feet, the vantage point overlooks the windward coast with incredible views stretching from the Ko’olau cliffs and the lush valley floors to the coastal areas of Kane’ohe and Kailua. The lookout also has historical significance as the site of King Kamehameha’s epic victory at the Battle of Nu’uanu in 1795. As a result of this victory, Kemehameha succeeded in uniting the Hawaiian Islands under a single ruler for the first time in history. Located just five miles from Honolulu, the lookout is an easy drive for those staying on the island’s capital city.
North Shore Shark Dive
Hawaii is one of the best places in the world to see sharks. The warm waters surrounding the islands are home to a whopping 40 different species. Adventure seekers can get in the water and swim or snorkel with these impressive creatures. A couple miles off Oahu’s North Shore is crystal clear 300-feet-deep water with an abundance of sharks. The most common species encountered include Galapagos sharks, scalloped hammerheads, reef sharks, and sandbar sharks. Tiger Shark spotting is seasonable, July through October. Opt for either an open-water swim or a cage dive. The exhilarating experience may change your perspective on sharks!
Byodo-In Temple
The Byodo-In Temple is a Buddhist temple on Oahu built as an exact replica of the Byodo-In Temple on Japan. The original temple, located in Uji, Japan, is close to 1,000 years old and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Oahu location was built in 1968 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the arrival of the first Japanese to Hawaii. The temple welcomes all faiths to worship, meditate, or admire its beauty.
