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!
Abhishek M.
Thanks Laura, this was really helpful! We were in Oahu for two and a half days and covered most of it including Ko olina Lagoons! [we were able to find parking at lagoon 4 🙂 ]
Laura Radniecki
Hi Abhishek!
Awesome, thank you for the update!
I'm glad you found the information helpful and loved exploring the island!!
Mahalo!
Laura
Simone
I just got back from my holiday to Hawaii, 4 days in Maui and 6 days in Waikiki. I'm already planning to go back in Feb. Can anyone recommend a good luau in Oahu? One that includes cocktails and the Kalua pig.
Laura Radniecki
Hi Simone!
I know people have mentioned both Germaine's Luau and one at the Polynesian Cultural Center. I can't speak from experience from either of them, but I would guess both would be similar and both great. I think both would definitely offer cocktails and Kalua pig since that is such a luau staple.
If you want to know more, you could always contact the Oahu Chamber of Commerce and ask them if there are any other favorites besides those two.
Good luck finding one! If you find one you love, I'd love to know about it so I can pass it on to others!
Laura
Judy1223
We went to Chief's Luau and it was a lot of fun, too!
Samantha at Our Traveling Blog
Incredible post. We are heading to Oahu in December and I CAN"T wait. I can almost feel the sand in my toes now, lol. Thanks for sharing this great post and getting me excited for our upcoming vacation. 🙂
Laura Radniecki
Thank you, Samantha!
You are going to have a blast on your trip to Oahu! I'm glad to help add to the excitement! 🙂
Laura
Raju
Hi Laura,
We (Self & my wife) are thinking of going to Hawaii in March 2017 for 3 weeks to cover Oahu, Kauai, Maui and or Big Island for my 60th Birthday and also for our 35th wedding anniversary. Do you think this is enough time to visit the best places around the islands?. Your Blog is very usefull and great tips. Can you please suggest any to suit our plan
Thank you for sharing
Raju
Laura Radniecki
Hi Raju!
Wow, that is going to be an amazing trip for you and your wife!!!
I think that 3 weeks will be enough time for you to visit at least a few of the islands, if not all 4. It will be a busy trip, that is for sure, but doable.
I would choose your top 5 things that you want to do on each island and prioritize your trip around those things, so that you make sure you get to do the things that are most important to you, and also so that you don't get too tired or burned out in the process.
Good luck with your planning and I hope you have the trip of a lifetime!
Laura
michael.jordan
Hi Laura
one fantastic post ! we are heading to Hawaii in march 2017 with family and friends will check out some of your beautiful photos places ps all the way Tasmania
thanks Michael
Laura Radniecki
Hi Michael!
I'm glad you enjoyed the post!
You will have a great time in Hawaii! I hope you love it as much as I do!
Laura
Alicia
Hi Laura
I've just stumbled across this website and it's been a massive help, thank you!
We are planning a West Coast trip for 2018 including a week or so in Oahu, where we plan on getting married. We are travelling all the way from sunny England with potentially 15 family members so this will be a huge adventure. I need all the info I can get my hands on!!
Many thanks again
Alicia
Laura Radniecki
Hi Alicia!
I'm glad you found the post and the information helpful!
Oh wow, you will have the trip of a lifetime! And getting married on Oahu?! I can't think of a better place for a wedding!
Best of luck in your trip planning and I hope you have the best time!
Laura
Donna S.
We're headed to Oahu this weekend to celebrate our anniversary! So enjoyed your blog; great tips! Appreciate all the folks commenting as well! I'll come back & postsome of our favorite activities upon return!
Thank you!
Laura Radniecki
Hi Donna!
Oh, how wonderful!
I hope you have the best time in Hawaii, and congratulations on your anniversary!
I look forward to hearing what some of your favorite activities were!
Safe travels!
Laura
Csilla
Hi Laura, we are thinking about going to Hawai this year in September for one week. Do you thing is enough time to visit the best places around the island? By the way, very usefull and great tips.
Thank you for sharing
Csilla
Laura Radniecki
Hi Csilla!
I'm glad you found the post helpful!
Yes, I definitely think you'll be able to see the best of Oahu in a week's time. Of course, the more time the better - but I'd say a week is probably what most people spend there when vacationing. You can see a couple of the different attractions in the same day, depending on what they are and where they're located on the island. That should allow you to see or do most of the whole list during your week there, if you want to!
The island isn't all that big, so getting around doesn't take too long.
I hope you have a great trip!!
Laura
Trisha Bek
Hi Laura! Loving this post! Thank you. We are heading to Oahu for a week in August (couple with 3 kids, ages 8-13). Do you have recommendation for hotel or where to stay (city?)? Having a kitchen and nearby grocery store would be ideal. Thanks so much for any help on this.
Laura Radniecki
Hi Trisha!
Thanks for the comment! How fun, you are going to love your trip!!
You know, I am not sure about lodging as we mostly stayed in cheap hotels or on base before we lived there.
I think the Oahu Chamber of Commerce [http://www.cochawaii.org/] might be a good resource to start with? Otherwise, you could also check out AirBnB too if you wanted to go that route.
Good luck and enjoy your vacation!!
Laura
Judy1223
If I might also make a suggestion, my husband and I took our 4 kids last summer and rented a house (through Vacation Rentals By Owner, or VRBO). It was great! We had plenty of room, a washer and dryer, and were able to eat in sometimes, which saved $$!
Laura Radniecki
That's a great suggestion, Judy!
Thank you for the info!
Laura
Christina
If you are looking for more rural and quiet then check out AirBnB places on the north shore. There is a grocery store near Sharks Cove and one in Laie. Turtle Bay resorts also rents out condos and townhouses on their property that then give you access to the pool etc.
Laura Radniecki
Thank you for the info, Christina! Great suggestions!
Laura
Belle Harootunian
Hi, Laura! My mom and I will be visiting Oahu at the end of May. Since our last family trip to the Big Island in 2012, I lost my dad and my husband. I understand there's a lantern festival that commemorates loved ones that have passed. Do you know where I can find more information about this service? Thank you!
Laura Radniecki
Hi Belle!
Thank you for reading and commenting.
I'm so sorry to hear about the loss of your dad and husband. What a special way to commemmorate both of them on your trip to Oahu with your mom.
I don't know the specifics about the lantern festival, but I would check first with the Oahu Chamber of Commerce and see if they might have more information. http://www.cochawaii.org/
Good luck finding the details and I wish you all the best on your trip!
Laura
Laura Bowles
We will be taking a trip to Oahu at the beginning of March 2016. Nine family members. The only person who has been to Hawaii is my Mom for her honeymoon in 1974. We are all very excited to go and will definitely check out the sites you have mentioned!
Thank you,
Laura
Laura Radniecki
Hi Laura!
Thanks for the message! I'm glad you found my post and were able to get some tips for your trip!
You guys are going to have a blast! The minute you step out of the airport, the Hawaiian magic will begin to seep into your soul, I can promise you that. 🙂
Enjoy and I'd love to hear what the highlights of your trip were!
Laura
Mark Delepine
Hi Laura and thanks for all the helpful information. We'll be there ten days later this month, from the 14th to the 23rd. We'll be staying in an apartment the art museum has made available to us in Honolulu. We're in our 60's and 70's and I had a question about the Maunawili Falls Trail. I found this information on line which seems to indicate there is a shorter trail option to the falls. http://dlnr.hawaii.gov/recreation/files/2014/11/Oahu-Hiking-Map_Maunawili.pdf
Did you ever go by the Access road. Apparently that is only a mile while the first option shown is 10 miles. I wouldn't want to miss the best parts by taking the shorter option. Is the area around the falls your favorite part of the trail?
I was surprised that Wiamea bay didn't make your short list. Do you think it is too touristy? I'm a plant and garden nut so we will definitely go to the botanical garden you recommended, as well as several more. Since we'll be staying near the art museum and my wife has several things to do there we will probably have a few half days with time to do things around Honolulu. Any other recommendations for sites to see around town?
Laura Radniecki
Hi Mark!
Oh, you are in for a treat with your long Oahu stay coming up!!
I took a look at the Maunawili information you linked to, and to be honest, I can't exactly remember which path we went on. But I know for sure it wasn't 10 miles. I'm thinking we did the middle option, the 2.5 mile route. I remember it being a decent hike, but not excruciatingly long [which I would definitely think a 10 mile hike would be way too long and hard for me haha!]. 1 mile sounds too short though, so I'm pretty sure it was the 2.5 mile route. I know we parked in a neighborhood; the trailhead was right off the main road in a neighborhood. I googled Maunawili Falls just now and I'm pretty sure it gave an accurate address for the trailhead we used. It was in a neighborhood in Kailua.
I liked the actual Maunawili Falls the best, but the hike in is pretty too. There wasn't necessarily anything specific about the hike that I loved; just being in the jungle, seeing the vegetation, feeling like you're truly on a remote Hawaiian island... That was my favorite part. So if you think you'd like to try the 1 mile hike in, I think you'll have a great experience there too.
We never stopped at Waimea Bay and went down to the beach, no. The main reason was that the parking lot was always completely full when we would drive by. I didn't want to jump off the big rock that's a popular attraction there, so I was ok missing it. I did go to the Waimea botanical gardens [I forget the actual specific name of the place but it's on the left as you're driving up to the North Shore and pass the Waimea Bay area] and that was beautiful. If you're a plant and garden fan, that might be another fun place for you to go. I think it has an entrance fee if I remember right, but it was worth it.
When we were in Honolulu/Waikiki, we mostly walked around and looked at different shops and restaurants, as well as went to the beach and Pearl Harbor of course. If you're lucky enough to be there during one of the times they have a movie or a concert on the beach, that's a fun thing to go see. There's also the Honolulu Zoo that is kind of fun. We live in a smaller city in Minnesota, so we don't get to go to the zoo too often.
You will have such a memorable time there!
Warmly,
Laura
Karen
Loved reading this blog. MY hubby is in the Navy Reserves and will be heading there next month for 3 weeks for his training this year. Lucky me since we are celebrating 30 years of marriage I get to tag along for 2 weeks of that. I have been one other time back in 2005. We had our then 14 year old twins. This time it is just the 2 of us. Super excited to take in some of the areas we didn't get to venture in to the last time as we were only there for a week. I am trying to put together a list of things to do/see and places to eat and shop by area so this blog helped add some things to that list. It is harder to figure out exactly where everything is though. Last time we stayed at the Schofield Base and this time we will be at Pearl. SO SO Excited
Laura Radniecki
Hi Karen!
Thank you for stopping by and leaving a comment!
How exciting that you get to go visit Oahu again, and for TWO weeks this time?! You'll have even more time to explore and without feeling quite so rushed.
Yes, it's hard to know where everything is and how long it takes to get between each one. There's also traffic to consider etc. You'll definitely be in a more centralized location this time, with being at Pearl Harbor. Schofield was more inland in the middle of the island, but I remember correctly.
I hope you have a wonderful trip!
Laura
Matt
Mahalo for the feedback Laura, if you'd ever like to guest write an article for us just drop me an email...we'd be happy to get an article from you and link back to your site here.
Matt
Good suggestions, totally agree with this list! Curious what you think of my guide: https://lookintohawaii.com/hawaii/45070/oahu-guide-information-oahu-hi
Laura Radniecki
Thanks for reading and also for sharing your guide, Matt! You've got great tips as well!