A list of the Top 10 Best Things To Do on Oahu, Hawaii. A must read if you're planning a trip to Hawaii, and want to know all of the best Oahu secrets, activities and tips!
Since living on Oahu, Hawaii for 9 glorious months in 2009, I've been asked countless times for activity recommendations by people who are heading to the islands on vacation.
I thought it would make a good FAQ post to list out our top 10 favorite things to do on Oahu, Hawaii, for anyone who is dreaming of Oahu, or who is heading to there on vacation and looking for things to do or see.
Please keep in mind that these are the best, in our humble opinion alone, and that there are many other incredible things to do and see on the island besides these. The list I made of our favorites was much longer than 10 so I pared it down to include our MOST favorite. I might need to do a follow-up post to this one in the future. I know other people will disagree with this list, saying other things are better than what I've listed, but like I said, these are in our opinion only.
10 Things You Must Do on Oahu Hawaii:
1. Pearl Harbor
I listed Pearl Harbor first because it was such a moving place for me to visit. We went with each different family group that came out, and I enjoyed the experience every time.
Hearing the stories, watching the video from the day Pearl Harbor was attacked, walking through the memorial and seeing the oil still leaking up in the bay; it got me every time.
2. Waikiki Beach
The iconic Waikiki Beach is a must see when you're on Oahu. If you're visiting, chances are you might be staying in Waikiki, since the majority of the island's hotels are located here.
During the day, the view of Diamond Head [top photo, below] is spectacular, and the beaches are idyllic. The water is warm, you can people-watch to your heart's content, and there are lots of water activities to try. You can learn to surf, snorkel, hop on a fishing charter, try out a dinner cruise, or stop at one of the many bars and restaurants along the beach.
At night, the Waikiki strip is full of night life, shops and more attractions to keep you entertained.
3. Diamond Head
Diamond Head is actually a state monument, and it's as much an iconic part of Oahu as Waikiki Beach.
The hike up Diamond Head is easy enough to accommodate most anyone; I saw girls making the trek in high heels!
The views from the top are nothing short of jaw-dropping. One of my most favorite photographs I've ever taken is from the top of Diamond Head and hangs as a huge canvas in both my bedroom and my parent's bedroom.
4. Makapu'u Point Lighthouse Trail
A hike similar to Diamond Head but less commercialized and organized is the Makapu'u Point Lighthouse Trail. This hike provides more incredible views and other neat sights along the way like old military bunkers and a beautiful lighthouse.
In the photo below, the little turtle-looking island on the horizon to the left? That was where we called home - Marine Corps Base Hawaii [MCBH]. Matt lived there for 3 years, when he wasn't deployed to Iraq, and I lived there for 9 blessed months in 2009.
5. Snorkeling at Shark's Cove and Hanauma Bay
I love to snorkel. I love snorkeling in Minnesota's lakes and mine pits, even though the fish we see are all generally the same color and look a lot alike.
Snorkeling in a tropical place is completely different and totally charming. There are two amazing places we liked to snorkel and we took our visitors to.
Shark's Cove is a great spot off the Kamehameha Highway. You park along the road, walk down to the bottom of the cove's shoreline and jump in the water. If it's wavy that day or the tide gets too high, there can be rolling waves which stir up the bottom and make it hard to see the fish. But it's a great spot to snorkel and there were TONS of fish to see every time we went there!
Hanauma Bay is another incredible snorkeling place. It's very popular, and the parking lot fills up quickly. So if you plan to go, go early in the day so you can get a spot. You have to pay, but it's well worth the money. There are tons of fish, and the bay is so picturesque you could almost cry.
My only complaint about snorkeling here was that we must have gone at a low tide time. The water was only a few feet deep, so I was almost scraping the bottom at times as I swam along. It might be worth trying to go at a time of high tide here, or else just deal with it. It did allow me to get real up close and personal with the fish!
6. Hoomaluhia Botanical Gardens in Kaneohe
We lived at MCBH which is on the windward side of Oahu. Waikiki and Diamond Head are on the south side.
Not far from the base was the prettiest botanical garden I have ever been to. The Hoomaluhia Botanical Gardens in Kaneohe were absolutely spectacular and made you feel like you were very much in lush, jungle Hawaii.
Chickens ran wild through the gardens, there were dozens of hiking trails, and the views... oh the views!
One thing I would recommend is bringing some bug spray. We didn't and were driven out of some spots because of the bugs.
7. Maunawili Falls Trail
On one of my very first trips to visit Matt before I moved out for good, he took me to Maunawili Falls, on a hiking trail through the jungle of Oahu. I loved the feel of being deep in the lush vegetation of the jungle, and it was unlike anything I'd ever seen before in my life.
It made such a great impression, we brought every visitor we had there too!
The hike is on a trail through the jungle, over a few streams, and finally leads you to a breathtaking waterfall.
Maunawili Falls is notorious for being a place where people can jump off that rock ledge, into the pool below. There is also a much higher ledge to the top left of the photo, maybe 40 or 50 feet above the pool? I've seen people jump from there too. I passed on that opportunity.
Maunawili Falls remains one of the key memories that pop into my mind when I think of Oahu, and being in Hawaii. It is very much what I picture as HAWAII.
8. "Turtle Beach" - Laniakea Beach
We stumbled upon this beach on our drive up the North Shore once, but I know it's not a secret beach by any means. We had just never heard of it before.
As you're driving up the North Shore toward Haleiwa, just before you get to the town of Haleiwa, you'll pass a beach that will be full of cars. That beach is Laniakea, better knows at Turtle Beach.
Turtles come in to eat the algae on the rocks and they are mesmerizing.
You can see them floating in the waves in the shallow parts of the water, and then you can almost always see some up on the shore.
When my parents talk about being in Hawaii, Turtle Beach is one of their most favorite memories. They liked it so much that we went back twice during their visit.
9. The Drive Up To North Shore
One of my favorite things to do while we lived on Oahu was to get in our car and drive around the island.
You can drive around the perimeter of most of the island, cutting through the middle which offers you views of picturesque pineapple fields and the Dole Plantation.
Some of the must-sees on a drive around the island are the views everywhere, the delicious fruit stands that dot the edges of the highway, the Shrimp Trucks and Shacks along the way, and when you get to Haleiwa, getting Shave Ice at Matsumoto's or Aoki's.
Catching a sunset while sitting on the beach on North Shore is an incredible way to experience Hawaii too.
10. Ko'Olina Lagoons
The last of our favorite spots on Oahu is on the far southwest side of the island. The majority of everything else is either on the southern part of the island, the eastern side or the north shore.
On the southwest coast of Oahu are the Ko'Olina Lagoons. They are incredible beaches with the finest white sand and the calmest waters, because the reefs block the waves.
I felt like a mermaid sitting on the beach at Ko'Olina!
The only downside to these lagoons is that parking can be a problem. We lived on the opposite side of the island and one time, we drove ALL the way across the island to go to the lagoons. Once we arrived, we found the parking lots completely full and had to change plans and go someplace else. If you go, get there early so you can secure your spot.
There you have it - our Top 10 Favorite Things To Do On Oahu, Hawaii!
Like I mentioned before, there are many, many more things to do on this incredible island. I would highly recommend picking up a guide book to help you plan your trip. A good Oahu, Hawaii guide book will point you to hidden gems that you might not find out about otherwise, as well as give you food recommendations that can be very helpful. I bought and read Oahu Revealed cover to cover before our trip and it helped find many Must Do's we would have missed otherwise.
Things change quickly too, so it's possible some of these recommendations will change over time.
One of my favorite things to do in Waikiki was to go to the International Marketplace, and while I was writing this list, I googled it and discovered that just a few months ago, the International Marketplace closed and was torn down to accommodate a Saks Fifth Avenue. How disappointing! However, a blog reader who lives on Oahu mentioned that many of the vendors from the International Marketplace relocated to the Swap Meet at the Aloha Stadium. The hours vary to be sure to check first before you go. But that's a great place to look for souvenirs.
I also read that the Aoki's building that had been serving Shave Ice to locals and tourists alike for decades was torn down in part of a new development project. Aoki's said they were moving to a new building, so I hope they continue to have business success in their new location.
Matt and I are starting to plan our return to Oahu for the first time since leaving in September of 2009. I can't wait to revisit these favorites of ours and soak in the Aloha spirit we have missed so much. The islands get into your blood almost the minute you set foot here, and you never get rid of that feeling. At least we didn't.
Have you been to Hawaii? Oahu, or one of the other islands? What were your favorite things to do?
P.S. There have been other great suggestions given in the comments section below. Make sure to give those a look to add a few more things you must do on Oahu Hawaii!
Simon
It all looks great, but Diamond Head and Turtle Beach look particularly amazing to me! I've booked my tickets and I'll be heading to Hawaii in May. I seriously can't wait! Thanks for the great tips.
Laura Radniecki
Hi Simon!
Thanks for reading and commenting, I'm happy you found the post helpful!
You will have an amazing time! I hope you're able to have a beautiful Diamond Head hike and see lots of turtles at Turtle Beach.
Safe travels and Aloha to you!
Laura
Sue
thank you for his awesome list! We are also celebrating our 25th anniversary in April of 2015 by going to Oahu, Maui and the Big Island - can't wait! I am glad to see a few of the things I want to do made your list. I also think I will add snorkeling to my list. It was on the "maybe list" but the pictures of fish we may see makes me really want to try.
Thanks again!
Laura Radniecki
Hi Sue!
Thanks for reading and commenting! I'm so excited you get to go explore the islands. What a fantastic way to celebrate your 25th anniversary!!!
YES, I highly, highly recommend going snorkeling. It's one of my favorite things to do. I think you'll be happy you did it!
Enjoy!!
Laura
Judy1223
Laura, what a great post...I'm so glad I found it! My husband and I are coming this summer with our four kids (teens/pre-teens) to celebrate our 20th anniversary, and you have given us some great ideas for places to visit on our trip! I'm wondering if you know of any good (not "commercial") luaus we could look into? Any suggestions are appreciated!
Laura Radniecki
Hi Judy!
Thank you so much for reading and commenting!! What a memorable trip you're in for - and a great way to celebrate your 20th anniversary as a family!!!
Matt and I did go to a luau once, but I'll be honest - I can't remember the name of it. I will say that I think all luaus will be very full and commercialized. They're such a "Hawaiian" thing to do so they really pack them full because so many people want to go.
I do know that there is one called Germaine's Luau, but it's very populated with people. You might want to check out the Polynesian Cultural Center and see if they offer a luau?
I do think that even if the luau is busy, it's still going to be a fun, memorable experience and a great opportunity to see the hula dancers etc. Some things are worth the crowds, in my opinion. 🙂
Good luck and if you find a really great luau, I'd love to hear about it so I can pass it on to others like you who ask!
Enjoy!
Laura
Chris Fisher
Thanks for the awesome website, ive been to Oahu once before when i was younger and am now planning to bring the family in June from Sydney, we will be hiring a car so we can experience all that you have listed at our own pace and not be at the mercy of tour times.
Thanks for the great tips.
Laura Radniecki
Hi Chris!
I'm happy this post was of help to you! I think renting a car is a great idea and will give you flexibility to see the parts of the island at your own pace.
Have a fantastic trip!!
Laura
Don Pelham
We went in September twice '98 & '99. Stayed at the Waikiki Circle Hotel. It is just far enough down the way, yet close enough to walk to the main area. The parade and the block party was just below our balcony and we could see from the pink hotel to Diamond Head from our balcony.
We took the tours. The bus tour around the island was great. If you rent a car or moped you'll drive by things and either not see them or see them and not know what you have seen.
Ala Moana Shopping Mall was very interesting.
Laura Radniecki
Hi Don!
Thanks for reading and commenting!
Matt and I caught a block party once and that was fantastic!! Your spot at the Waikiki Circle Hotel sounds awesome. I have never heard of that hotel before.
Thanks for your extra input on the bus tour and the Ala Moana mall! We loved to visit the mall when we went into Honolulu.
Laura
Suzanne Hall
I enjoyed your blog about Oahu, but kept waiting for the premier attraction so tourists can get a taste of all of Polynesia - and that's the Polynesian Cultural Center. I went to college next door, in Laie, and think it's a must-see event! We spent a whole lot of time at many of the places you mentioned, particularly Haunauma Bay, a real favorite. Ask about the Toilet Bowl when you go.
I also enjoyed your blog because you mentioned two places I had not visited yet. I look forward to going to those next time.
Laura Radniecki
Hi Suzanne!
Thanks for reading and commenting! Lucky you to have had the chance to go to college on Oahu!!! I love Laie. We stopped there many times on drives around the island.
You are absolutely right, the Polynesian Cultural Center is a hugely popular and well loved attraction. The only reason it's not on this list is that I actually never got the chance to visit there! When we return, it's absolutely on my list of places to see, and perhaps there's a Version 2.0 blog post that needs to be written. 🙂
I appreciate your comment and input!!
Laura
Lisa
Go to Teddy's Bigger Burger for the best hamburger you'll ever have!! It was one of my favorite places when I lived there.
Laura Radniecki
Thanks for the addition to the list, Lisa! I never made it to Teddy's, but I'll make sure I do when I return for another visit!
Laura
Erica E.
We are planning a trip to Oahu soon and found your site. I was wondering about the trek to Maunawili Falls. Is it something that can be done with a 3 year old? I recognized the waterfall from my favorite Jason Mraz video and would love to see it in person but of course I wouldn't want to do something that wouldn't be too safe for my little one.
Thanks!
Laura Radniecki
Hi Erica!
I'd say that you could do the hike to Maunawili Falls with your little one as long as you were ok carrying them at certain parts. You might not need to, but it is a decently long hike and you might need to carry them on your back etc over the streams. If you're ok with that, then go for it!! The pools at the end would be fun for a swim for them! 🙂
Enjoy your trip!
Laura
Kara
Don't go with elderly or small children to the Maunawili Falls in late December. Absolutely full of mud and very slippery. It's up and down hills with roots, ankle deep mud in many places.
Anna Marie Virgint
My boyfriend lives in Oahu (by the Aloha Towers), and I have been fortunate enough to have been there 3 times. The North Shore is my favorite. Lots of great restaurants in Honolulu ... some within walking distance of high rise. Lots of genuine ethnic food. Thanks for covering the main spots to visit. Yes, no place quite like belle HI!
Laura Radniecki
Hi Anna!
Lucky you to have a great reason to visit so often!! I agree with North Shore being my favorite too. Such a blessed, beautiful island.
Laura
Julie Earnshaw
My husband is taking me here for my 50th birthday (I know!) it also coincides with Christmas and New Year. Looking at this site has made me even more excited than I was so thank you, we will definitely try and visit all of the places you recommend
Laura Radniecki
Hi Julie!
What a fantastic way to celebrate your 50th birthday, as well as Christmas and New Years!! I hope that you enjoyed/are enjoying your trip and that you get to fully experience all Oahu has to offer!!
Happy Birthday!
Laura
Emily Nevitt
I live on Oahu and many of the vendors from the International Marketplace moved to the Swap Meet at Aloha Stadium. They have goofy hours so be sure to check before you go, but it is a great place to get cheap souvenirs. And don't buy the first thing you see! Chances are, someone else has it for less 4 or 5 booths down.
Laura Radniecki
Hi Emily!
Thank you so much for commenting! That's great info to know; I'll add that into the post! I loved the Swap Meet too - I still wear some of the t-shirts I scooped up there! 🙂
Laura
Anne
How sad that the markets are gone. Lordy do we really need Sacks on Waikiki?? My granddaughter and I are coming to Hawaii in April 2015 and I was so looking forward to going to the markets with her.
Laura Radniecki
Hi Anne!
Thanks for reading and commenting.
I know - I share your sentiments... It made me very sad to hear about the markets being gone. You can't stop progress, I guess...
I hope you and your granddaughter have a great time on your trip; what a great bonding time!
Laura
Contina Savage
Thank you for sharing! We are so excited to go to Oahu in April 2015 to celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary!
Laura Radniecki
Hi Contina!
Thank you for reading; I'm glad you enjoyed it!
Oh wow, there is no better place to celebrate 25 years of marriage than on Oahu!!
I'm so excited for you to explore the island!
Blessings and congratulations on 25 years of wedded bliss! 🙂
Laura
Ryana
Thanks for the suggestions I am heading there in Jan for my Birthday I will do Maui and The big Island as well! I really want too se Diamond Head!
Laura Radniecki
Hi Ryana!
Oh, you will LOVE your birthday trip!!
Oahu is fantastic, as is Maui! I've never been to the Big Island yet, but it's on my life bucket list too! 🙂
I hope you're able to hike to the top of Diamond Head and get a glimpse of Waikiki beach and the ocean below. It'll be something you'll never, ever forget!
Blessings on your travels!
Laura
Kelly
Contina! How was your trip?? We are going one week from Friday. Can't wait!
Noel
Thank you for all of you're suggestions. Used them all! Had an amazing time:)
Laura Radniecki
Hi Noel!
You are so welcome!
I'm happy to hear the suggestions were helpful and that you had a great time!
Laura
Alex
I love this post! We've been here just under 5 months, and so far, a few places that you listed have been our favorite! We love the North Shore, because it's closer to Schofield, and in my opinion, a nicer place to hang out than Waikiki.
Laura Radniecki
Hi Alex!!
I agree! While I think Waikiki is fun and a definitely place to go once in awhile, I much prefer a quieter beach and less tourists, so that's why North Shore was so fun for me!
How long will you be on Oahu for? Isn't it the greatest?!? I can't wait to go back in less than a year after being gone almost 5 years!
Kim
Aloha Alex! I completely agree! The North Shore is such a breath of fresh air compared to Waikiki. However, if you ever have family or friends visiting, or want a night out in the "city", there is a new show opening in Waikiki this month! It's is called MYTH, Hidden Legends of Old Hawai'i, and it isn't your typical luau. It is a culturally-based Hawaiian and Polynesian production that prides itself on bringing authentic hula and local entertainment to the heart of Waikiki. In my opinion, another breath of fresh air. 🙂 Check out http://www.mythhiddenlegends.com if you want to know more! Mahalo!
Julie Earnshaw
We went to Oahu for my birthday, Christmas and New Year. We decided that, on Christmas day, we would go to the Polynesian Centre to a luau only to be told that it was closed and we ended up going to Germaine's (I think that was the name). While it was OK I thought it was a bit over-priced and as there was over 800 people there a quite busy.
We stayed in Waikiki and enjoyed it but to see the real Oahu I must agree that a journey to the North Shore is a must, that's where you see the real Hawaii
Laura Radniecki
Hi Julie!
I have heard of Germaine's Luau. We went to one but I'm not sure what it was called. We went to it on a night designated just for Matt's military unit, so it was less busy than that. But I agree, 800 people there would be very busy and less of the 'Hawaiian luau' experience you would hope for. But maybe still worth the experience once?
I'm glad you traveled to the North Shore to see that part of Oahu! While Waikiki is fun, North Shore is what I think most people would think of when they hear "Hawaii."
Thanks for reading and commenting!
Laura
Matt
Aloha and welcome to Hawaii 🙂