10 Best Things to Do in Oahu
What is Oahu Most Famous For?
The best things to do in Oahu range from fascinating cultural excursions to ancient historical sites and stunning nature trails around the island. This palm tree-fringed Hawaiian island is not only home to the state capital, but it’s also one of the world’s most iconic vacation destinations.
Visitors arrive in droves to kick back on world-famous beaches, where a buzzing 24-hour vibe holds true to Oahu’s name: “gathering place.” Even though Honolulu’s renowned stretch of sand is undoubtedly picturesque, there are plenty of exciting attractions on the island to tempt the intrepid vacationer.
What are the best things to do in Oahu?
1. Honolulu
Rich with Hawaii’s colonial past
Good for: Families, History, Photo
You wouldn’t guess it from the glitzy row of beachfront skyscrapers that lines Waikiki, but Honolulu is a historically significant town with ample ancient attractions to explore. In fact, some of its colonial-era edifices date back to the 18th century.
The painstakingly restored Iolani Palace is the only royal building to reside on US soil. The lavish architecture of the era is proudly displayed at the Spanish Revival-style King David Kalakaua building and the Italian Renaissance-style Ali’iolani Hale. Other worthy sites include the Kamehameha I Statue, the Mission Houses Museum, the Kawaiaha’o Church, the Hawaii State Capitol, and the Old Federal Building. All of these landmarks can be found in downtown Honolulu, making it easy to visit them on foot.
Honolulu
2. Waikiki Beach
The most popular coast in Oahu
Good for: Budget, Families, History, Photo
Before hitting the sand of Oahu’s most popular beach, enjoy a prelude walk with plenty to see through downtown Waikiki. You can start from Kaʻiulani Avenue, with the lush public garden featuring the namesake Hawaiian princess’ statue.
Upon reaching the main street, Kalakaua Avenue, you’ll find the sandy, palm-lined Waikiki beachfront shared by luxurious hotels. Parasols and loungers speckle the coast, facing the blue Pacific waters. The gentle waves are ideal for learning to surf, so much so that this is where the modern sport of surfing was born.
Location: Honolulu, HI 96815, United States
Waikiki Beach
3. North Shore
The place to hang ten or feast on tasty shrimp
Good for: Adventure, Families, Food, Photo
North Shore is otherwise known as the “surfers capital of the world.” A quick 25-minute journey from Honolulu brings you to the Waimea Bay and the Banzai Pipeline, both of which attract pros from around the globe for their gnarly breaks. This laidback stretch of coastline also offers some of the best food, culture, and scenery in Oahu.
Drop by the hippie surfy town of Haleiwa to pick up local handicrafts and try a refreshing snack of fruit-infused shaved ice. If you fancy something savory, head further north to sample garlic prawns from shrimp trucks along the highway. If you’re after a day on the sand without the surfy vibe, give Waimanalo Bay, Kailua, Lanikai, or Sunset Beach a try. Read more
Location: Waimea Bay, Hawaii 96712, USA
North Shore
4. Pearl Harbor
An important moment in history
Good for: Families, History, Photo
Few visit Oahu without paying their respects to the 1,117 American sailors who lost their lives in Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. A navy boat ferries visitors out to the offshore USS Arizona Memorial, which marks the spot where the famous battleship and its crew sunk to a watery grave. The surprise aerial attack was the tipping point that launched the United States into World War II, a moment which changed the course of history forever.
Back on shore, the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center displays artifacts and detailed information about the event. Given its historical significance, both Americans and foreign visitors will appreciate a visit to the somber site.
Location: 1 Arizona Memorial Pl, Honolulu, HI 96818, United States
Open: Daily from 7 am to 5 pm
Phone: +1 808-422-3399
Pearl Harbor
5. Waimea Valley Nature Preserve
Gorgeous natural trails and a temple to the Hawaiian gods
Good for: Families, History, Photo
Nestled on Oahu’s lush North Shore, Waimea Valley is a breathtaking blend of natural beauty and Hawaiian heritage. Visitors can stroll through botanical gardens teeming with native and exotic plants, explore ancient cultural sites like Hale O Lono Heiau, and swim beneath the cascading Waimea Falls.
The valley offers a peaceful escape from the bustle of Waikiki, inviting travelers to connect with the island’s spiritual and ecological roots. Guided tours, cultural demonstrations, and seasonal events enrich the experience, making Waimea Valley a must-visit for nature lovers, history buffs, and anyone seeking a deeper connection to Hawaiʻi.
Location: Haleiwa, HI 96712, United States
Open: Daily 9 am to 5 pm
Phone: +1 808 638 7766
Waimea Valley Nature Preserve
6. Byodo-In Temple
An architectural beauty with peaceful gardens
Good for: Couples, History, Photo
Byodo-In Temple near Kaneohe Bay is a Buddhist temple set in a magical location against the lush Ko’olau Mountains. The temple celebrates the 1st Japanese immigrants to Hawaii and is a smaller replica of the famous Byōdō-in Temple in Japan. Since the Hawaiian temple is non-denominational, people of all faiths are welcome to walk inside. Thousands of travelers visit Byodo-In Temple each year for prayer and to participate in spiritual traditions.
Fertile gardens, verdant forests, and koi ponds surround the temple to create a peaceful environment. Wander the property to find roaming peacocks, black swans, bamboo trees, and trickling waterfalls. The temple grounds make a romantic wedding location or a tranquil spot to meditate.
Location: 47-200 Kahekili Hwy, Kaneohe, HI 96744, United States
Open: Daily from 8.30 am to 4:30 pm
Phone: +1 808 239 8811
Byodo-In Temple
7. Haleiwa
A historic town on Oahu’s northern shore
Good for: Couples, Photo, Shoppers, Unusual
The historic town of Haleiwa on the North Shore of Oahu is the perfect stop for experiencing historic Hawaii architecture and taking a glimpse into the former sugar plantation industry. While beaches and natural beauty dominate the Hawaiian landscape, towns like Haleiwa are a great place to enjoy all aspects of Oahu.
You may want to pose in front of one of the famous surf shops or meander to one of the brightly colored downtown stores. The unique shopping boutiques and uncrowded parks are another way to enjoy a change of pace in Haleiwa Town and show your Instagram followers historic Hawaii.
Location: Haleiwa, HI 96712, USA
Haleiwa
8. Polynesian Cultural Center
The heart of thriving Polynesian traditions
Good for: Families, History, Photo, Food
For a fascinating insight into the Polynesian culture in Hawaii and abroad, check out the Polynesian Cultural Center in Laie on Oahu’s North Shore. The expansive institution adopts a fun-loving theme park kind of approach to education, ensuring the whole family will adore learning about the region’s eclectic culture.
6 Pacific countries, Tahiti, Fiji, Tonga, Samoa, Aotearoa, and Hawaii, are showcased throughout the 42-acre park. You can sample the delicacies of each, and we especially recommend you save room for the smoked imu pork. Arts and crafts stalls, canoe pageants on the lagoon, and traditional live performances add to the appeal. Read more
Location: 55-370 Kamehameha Hwy, Laie, HI 96762, United States
Open: Open daily 12:15 pm to 9 pm, closed Wednesdays and Sundays
Phone: +1 800 367 7060
Polynesian Cultural Center
9. Koko Head stairs
A grueling workout with sweeping views
Good for: Adventure, Families, Photo
Active travelers yearning for a solid workout in Oahu should head to the Koko Head Park in the South Shore, where they can scale the 1,000 or so steps to the top. The strenuous ascent follows a disused railway line that once hauled military supplies to the fortified bunkers above. These days, it’s a calorie-busting playground for local fitness fanatics and a popular photo stop for camera-toting tourists.
Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and sturdy shoes to tackle the grueling climb, which you should attempt at sunrise or sunset to beat the midday heat. You’ll be exhausted upon reaching the summit, but its sweeping 360-degree views of the island and the ocean will be worth it in the end.
Location: 7430 Kalanianaʻole Hwy, Honolulu, HI 96825, United States
Koko Head stairs
10. Luau at Paradise Cove
The archetypal Hawaiian event
Good for: Families, Photo, Food, Nightlife
Make your way to the Ko Olina Resort at Paradise Cove if you’re looking to experience Hawaii’s enchanting traditions firsthand through a luau ceremony. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted with a heartfelt “Aloha!” and a floral lei to drape around your neck.
After you’ve explored the Hawaiian village and tried your hand at Hawaiian games, relish in an extravagant banquet that includes a delectable array of local favorites such as poi and kalua pork. All this is best accompanied by a cheeky mai tai as you enjoy the evening entertainment of classical Hawaiian music and hula displays. Luau ceremonies take place across the island, so check out some other options if Paradise Cove isn’t convenient for you.
Location: 92-1089 Aliinui Dr, Kapolei, HI 96707, United States
Open: Daily from 5 pm to 9 pm
Phone: +1 808 842 5911
Luau at Paradise Cove
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