By Sarah Burchard
Chinatown Honolulu. Photo by Ketino Photography.
Oʻahu, often called the “The Gathering Place,” earned its nickname by being the most heavily populated of all the Hawaiian Islands. Oʻahu attracts the most visitors each year. It’s an international gathering place, home to the royal palace and the state capital. It’s the birthplace of surfing with waves calm enough for beginners and big enough to attract the world’s greatest surfers. There is Town, where local art, poetry and literature thrives, and Country, with family farms, kalo (taro) fields and loko iʻa (fishponds). You can nap on the sand, hike a volcanic crater, see a show or taste your way through a profusion of global cuisines. If you want to learn about Hawai’i history and culture, O’ahu is a great place to start. .
First time visiting? Here are 25 of the best things to do on Oʻahu — a mix of must-see attractions, outdoor adventures and local favorites.
Hiking. Lēʻahi (Diamond Head). Photo by Christian Mueller (Shutterstock).
No first trip to Oʻahu is complete without a Diamond Head hike. The short but steep trail up Oʻahu’s most famous volcanic crater rewards hikers with panoramic views of land and ocean from Waikīkī to Waiʻanae. Arrive early in the morning to catch the sunrise — it’s one of the most photographed moments on the island.
Pro tip: This hike is not long, but it does get very hot. Bring water and reef-safe sunscreen, stay on the trail, and reserve your hiking time slot online before you go. Parking is limited, so consider taking the bus or a rideshare.
Waikīkī Beach. Photo by NorthSky Films (Shutterstock).
Waikīkī is Hawaiʻi’s most famous beach. It is where Duke Kahanamoku popularized surfing and was once home to aliʻi (Hawaiian royalty). With Lēʻahi in the background, it is the beach you will find on nearly all Oʻahu postcards. Here, golden sands meet calm turquoise waves perfect for beginner surfers. You can rent a surfboard, take a lesson or simply relax and enjoy the party unfolding around you.
Pro tip: Stay for sunset, when the beach fills with live music from hotel bars and street performers and the sky turns pink and gold. Walk down to the pier where local kids do back flips into the ocean.
USS Missouri at Pearl Harbor. Photo by Felix Lipov (Shutterstock).
Step back in time at Pearl Harbor, where history and heroism come alive. Visit the USS Arizona Memorial, Battleship Missouri and Pacific Aviation Museum to understand the events that shaped World War II and modern Hawaiʻi.
Insider tip: Tickets for the Arizona Memorial can sell out, so book your visit early. Many tour companies, like this one, will take you from Waikīkī to Pearl Harbor and purchase your tickets for you to make the experience stress-free.
Hanauma Bay. Photo by Christian Mueller (Shutterstock).
This marine sanctuary is one of the best snorkeling spots in the world. Hanauma Bay’s protected waters are home to colorful coral reefs and hundreds of tropical fish species. Visitors must watch a short conservation video before entering, helping protect this fragile ecosystem. Reservations are required and begin 48 hours in advance at 7 a.m.
Insider tip: The bay is closed on Tuesdays to let marine life rest — plan your visit accordingly. And don’t forget your reef-safe sunscreen.
Windward side Oʻahu. Photo by NorthSky Films (Shutterstock).
A scenic drive along Oʻahu’s Windward Coast reveals some of the island’s most stunning coastline. With the vast Pacific Ocean sparkling on one side and the verdant Ko'olau Mountains towering over you on the other. There are several stops you can make along the way, from Makapuʻu Lookout to Kualoa Ranch. Take the family to see sea lions and dolphins at Sea Life Park, one of the main locations the movie “50 First Dates” was filmed.
Lūʻau at Polynesian Cultural Center.
Enjoy live music, hula, fire-knife dances and local dishes like kālua pig and haupia at an Oʻahu lūʻau. Some of the best include Paradise Cove, Chief’s Lūʻau and the Polynesian Cultural Center’s Aliʻi Lūʻau.
Insider tip: Book your tickets ahead and arrive early to participate in pre-show cultural activities.
Photo by Christian Mueller (Shutterstock).
The legendary North Shore is surfing heaven. In winter, world-class waves roll into beaches like Waimea Bay, Sunset Beach and the Banzai Pipeline. In summer, the ocean calms and becomes perfect for swimming, snorkeling and kayaking. Visit the Kahuku shrimp trucks and then head to Haleʻiwa Town for shave ice and shopping.
Insider tip: Try Matsumoto’s Shave Ice — a North Shore classic since the 1950s.
Photo by Christian Mueller (Shutterstock).
Located in Lāʻie, this immersive attraction showcases the diverse cultures of Polynesia through village exhibits, performances and hands-on experiences. You can paddle a canoe, learn a hula, and watch the spectacular evening show “HĀ: Breath of Life.”
Insider tip: Plan to spend a full day — the center’s island villages and entertainment are best enjoyed slowly.
Courtesy of Ultimate Circle Island Tours.
A circle island tour is the best way to see Oʻahu’s top attractions in a single day. Most tours include stops at Dole Plantation, the North Shore, Byodo-In Temple and viewpoints like the Pali Lookout. It’s ideal for first-time visitors who want a taste of everything.
Insider tip: Choose a small-group or private tour for a more flexible experience.
Shark's Cove, North Shore. Photo by Nature's Charm (Shutterstock).
Located on the North Shore near Pūpūkea, Shark’s Cove is a rocky bay known for its clear water and vibrant marine life. Despite the name, it’s perfectly safe for snorkeling in summer months when the water is calm.
Insider tip: Bring reef shoes — the lava rock shoreline can be sharp.
Kaneʻohe Bay, Oʻahu. Photo by marchello74 (Shutterstock).
The Kaneʻohe Sandbar is one of Oʻahu’s most unique natural wonders — a submerged island that emerges at low tide in the middle of Kāneʻohe Bay. Rent a kayak or join a guided boat tour to spend the day swimming, snorkeling and picnicking on this stunning stretch of sand.
Insider tip: Visit during low tide for the full sandbar experience.
Chinatown Honolulu. Photo by Ketino Photography.
Oʻahu isn’t just beaches — it’s also culture and creativity. In Chinatown, you’ll find colorful markets, street art and some of Honolulu’s best restaurants and cocktail bars. A short walk away, visit ʻIolani Palace, the only royal palace in the country, to learn about Hawaiʻi’s monarchy.
Insider tip: Visit in the evening on First Friday, when art galleries and shops stay open late. Capital Modern museum always hosts a large event that evening free to the public.
Dole Plantation. Photo by Claudine Van Massenhove (Shutterstock).
A classic stop for families, the Dole Plantation offers a fun look at Hawaiʻi’s pineapple heritage. Ride the Pineapple Express Train, wander through the world’s largest maze and sample fresh pineapple Dole Whip.
Insider tip: Combine this stop with a North Shore drive — it’s right on the way.
Mānoa Falls. Photo by Sarah Burchard.
Just a short drive from Waikīkī, this lush rainforest trail leads to a 150-foot waterfall. The easy hike takes about 45 minutes each way and passes through bamboo groves and tropical foliage, with sometimes muddy trails depending on the rain.
Insider tip: Go early in the day to avoid crowds and bring shoes that can handle mud.
Parasailing in Waikīkī. Photo by Theodore Trimmer (Shutterstock)
For a thrilling view of Oʻahu from above, try parasailing over Waikīkī’s turquoise waters. Flights range from gentle to adrenaline-pumping heights of up to 1,000 feet, offering unforgettable aerial views of Honolulu and Diamond Head.
Insider tip: Morning flights tend to have calmer winds and clearer skies.
Kualoa Ranch. Photo by @adairlian (via Instagram).
Kualoa Ranch is where Hawaiʻi’s natural beauty meets Hollywood magic. This 4,000-acre private nature reserve has been the backdrop for movies like Jurassic Park and Jumanji. Visitors can join ATV rides, horseback tours and zipline adventures through the lush Kaʻaʻawa Valley. There is also a cafe with ono (delicious) local food and farmstand.
Insider tip: Movie fans will love the Jurassic Adventure Tour — it visits famous film sites.
Byodo Temple. Photo by Claudine Van Massenhove (Shutterstock).
Nestled at the base of the Koʻolau Mountains, this replica of a 950-year-old Japanese temple offers a serene escape. The temple grounds feature koi ponds, gardens and the large golden Amida Buddha. Take a moment to center at the meditation pavilion and enjoy a leisurely walk around the property. It’s a peaceful place to reflect and take in Oʻahu’s multicultural history.
Insider tip: Ring the 3-ton bonshō (sacred bell) before entering for good luck and blessings.
Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden. Photo by Christian Mueller (Shutterstock).
Check out the Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden on the Windward side, Foster Botanical Garden in Town or Wahiawa Botanical Garden in Central Oʻahu. All provide a tranquil refuge with native trees and flora, tours and activities. Hoʻomaluhia offers fishing and camping. Foster hosts garden classes and volunteer workdays. Wahiawa invites you to practice tai chi or lay on the grass with a good book.
Makapuʻu Lighthouse. Photo by Nature's Charm (Shutterstock).
This scenic coastal hike on Oʻahu’s southeastern tip offers breathtaking ocean views and a historic red-roofed lighthouse. In winter months, this is one of the best spots for O’ahu whale watching where you can often spot humpback whales breaching offshore.
Insider tip: Bring binoculars and a hat — the trail is exposed but well-paved. It’s stroller-friendly if you have young children.
Heads up: This is a popular attraction, parking can be difficult. Stay on the paved trail to prevent environmental degradation.
Tantalus Lookout. Photo by Dudarev Mikhail (Shutterstock).
End the day with panoramic views from Puʻu ʻUalakaʻa State Park, also known as Tantalus Lookout. From here, you can see all of Honolulu, Diamond Head and the city-lined coastline below.
Insider tip: Arrive before sunset for easy parking and enjoy a picnic as the city lights come alive.
Bishop Museum. Photo by @bellali_0318 (via Instagram).
The Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum is Hawaiʻi’s State Museum of Natural and Cultural History of Hawaiʻi and the largest museum in the state. Learn the history of Hawaiʻi from the first Polynesian settlers to post Western contact in a wide variety of galleries and exhibitions and at shows presented in the J. Watumull Planetarium.
Insider tip: Bishop Museum hosts special events nearly every week. Check out the event schedule to see if you can attend.
Waimea Falls. Photo by Wirestock Creators (Shutterstock).
Across the highway from Waimea Bay, is Waimea Valley - a 600-year-old archaeological site once home to Aliʻi (royalty) and Kahuna Nui (High Priests). Spend the day wandering its meandering paths through botanical gardens to the centuries old Hale o Lono Heiau (temple dedicated to the god Lono), Kauhale Kahiko (traditional living site) and lo‘i (agricultural terraces) until you reach the 45-foot high Waimea Falls.
Insider tip: Wear your bathing suit, so you can cool off in the water when you reach the falls.
Street art in Kakaʻako. Courtesy of @sas514 (via Instagram).
Take a self-led tour of Kakaʻako’s outdoor murals presented by Pow! Wow! Worldwide artists. Since 2011 Pow! Wow! has presented over 50 murals by hundreds of artists. Murals often rotate annually, so if you are a returning visitor you may find something new. Start your walk at SALT at Our Kakaʻako and explore the streets around it. Here are a few murals to start with.
Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort Friday night fireworks. (Shutterstock)
Every Friday night the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort presents a free fireworks show. Hang out on the beach behind the resort, book a dinner reservation at a nearby restaurant with outdoor dining, such at the Hilton’s Bali Oceanfront restaurant (on location of the fireworks) or lay on the grass with a blanket and a picnic at Magic Island to enjoy the show with locals. Times vary by season, but you can usually expect them shortly after sunset.
Courtesy of Lady Elaine.
O’ahu has the most exciting restaurant scene of all the islands. From hole-in-the wall spots to high-end tasting menus, O’ahu has it all. Check out our Honolulu Food Tour for a variety of dining options, including the best on the island. While the best neighborhoods for dining are Chinatown and Kaimukī, you can find great food everywhere. Visit Wahiawa for local mom-and-pop spots, the North Shore for food trucks and Kakaʻako for the farmers market and specialty coffee shops. Even Waikīkī has some hidden gems.
Don’t leave anything of value in your car. In some tourist-heavy locations, cars — especially rental cars — have been broken into.
Don’t leave your valuables unattended on the beach.
Do not touch sea turtles, monk seals or any wildlife. These are protected, endangered animals, and it’s against the law to touch them or even get too close.
Do not take rocks, sand, plants or animals from beaches or hiking trails. You may be removing something sacred or a native or endemic species that’s endangered in the area. Leave everything in nature as you found it.
Do not leave any trash behind — anywhere.
Heed warning signs at the beach. Lifeguards post signs for hazards such as strong currents, jellyfish sightings and high surf. Take these cautions seriously.
Do not venture off the beaten path. Straying from marked hiking trails can cause land degradation. You may also be stepping on private or sacred grounds.
Be mindful of your noise level. Don’t be the loud tourist who disrupts others’ experiences. It’s disrespectful — and a good way not to be invited back.
Wear reef-safe sunscreen. It’s against the law in Hawaiʻi to use anything else. Help protect this fragile ecosystem.
Do I need to rent a car to do these Oʻahu activities?
If you are staying in Waikīkī and will spend your trip in Town it’s better to skip the rental car. Parking at hotels is expensive and it is easy to get around by foot, bus and rideshare. If you will be traveling to the North Shore, Windward side or Leeward side you will need a rental car. If you are staying in Ko ʻOlina or on the North shore and want to explore the island, you should rent a car.
What are the most popular free attractions on Oʻahu?
Visiting beaches and public parks or going on hikes are free activities great for the whole family. On Wednesdays, just before sunset, you can watch a free hula show at the Kuhio Beach Hula Mound near the Duke Kahanamohu statue. On Friday nights there is a free fireworks show at Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikīkī Beach Resort. Pearl Harbor National Memorial and USS Arizona Memorial are also free.
Can I see/do all of these on Oʻahu in one day?
There would not be time to do all 25 of these activities in one day.
How many days should I spend on Oʻahu?
We recommend spending at least three days on Oʻahu, a full week if you are looking to explore the whole island.
What’s the best way to get around Oʻahu?
The bus will take you just about anywhere you want to go on Oʻahu. If you are staying in Waikīkī you can also take BIKI, its bikeshare program. Waikīkī is also very walkable. There are also taxis and rideshare apps. If you are traveling to multiple places around the island, we recommend renting a car.
Which Oʻahu activities require a reservation?
You should make reservations for restaurants, Lēʻahi (Diamond Head), the USS Arizona Memorial, Haunama Bay, Polynesian Cultural Center, Oʻahu Circle Island Tour, Kualoa Ranch and to attend a lūʻau,
What are the best outdoor activities on Oʻahu?
Some of the best outdoor activities on Oʻahu include water activities such as swimming, snorkeling, boogie boarding, stand-up paddling, surfing, canoe paddling, parasailing, sailing or taking a boat tour; hiking, biking, tennis, pickleball,visiting public parks and checking out the street murals in Kakaʻako.
What are the top cultural attractions on Oʻahu?
Some of the top cultural attractions on Oʻahu include, ʻIolani Palace, Bishop Museum, Honolulu Museum of Art, Capital Modern Museum, Polynesian Cultural Center, Cirque du Soleil 'Auana and attending a hula show or lūʻau.
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