Famous surf breaks, significant historic sites and a world-class food scene — that’s Oʻahu.
Oʻahu is the perfect blend of bustling urban city and tranquil island beauty — and nowhere is that balance more alive than in Honolulu. You can wake up with a morning swim, hike to the top of Koko Crater, eat downtown at a James Beard Award-winning restaurant, stroll through one of the Pacific’s most acclaimed art museums, go souvenir shopping in the world’s largest outdoor mall, watch the sunset over the ocean, sample locally caught seafood and see fireworks — all in one day. Beyond the city, the island opens up into rainforest trails, ancient heiau, legendary surf breaks and some of the most dramatic coastline in the Pacific. Hawaiʻi’s Gathering Place is for experience seekers who love the energy of a great city, yet crave the rejuvenation of nature. Out of all the cities I love around the world, Honolulu will always be at the top of my list.
I chose these because they are must-dos for travelers of all ages, each offering an entry point into Hawaiʻi’s unique culture and history that goes far beyond their classic postcard images.
One of my favorite things about Oʻahu is how it keeps me moving — both in and out of the water. With hiking, surfing, snorkeling and winter whale watching among the many options, there are plenty of reasons to stay outside.
Not all Oʻahu beaches are created equal, and the same beach can look and feel entirely different depending on the season. Waikīkī is where you go to learn to surf, Ko ʻOlina’s sheltered lagoons are ideal for swimming, and Hanauma Bay — home to more than 450 species of tropical fish — is the island’s premier snorkeling destination.
Hawaiʻi has a complex and layered history, and no island tells that story more completely than Oʻahu. From Indigenous Hawaiian culture and the profound impact of Western contact to the enduring contributions of the state’s immigrant communities, the island’s museums and historic sites offer some of the most important cultural experiences in the Pacific.
Hawaiʻi has one of the most diverse food cultures in the United States. Think beyond plate lunch, poke and shave ice when you come to Oʻahu. Honolulu is one of the country’s most exciting food cities, with a sophisticated craft cocktail scene, farm-to-table restaurants and a thriving third-wave coffee culture.
My favorite places to shop are the individually owned boutiques and gift shops of Kakaʻako, Kailua and Kaimukī — this is where you will find the most locally-made products and apparel. Waikīkī will have almost anything you need, but keep in mind you’ll pay a premium for the convenience.
You may not believe this — I didn’t when I first moved here — but Oʻahu does have distinct seasons. Winter brings more rain, but also whale watching and big wave surf. Summer heat brings warmer, calmer water perfect for snorkeling and swimming. Spring and fall offer the best weather and, often, the best deals on hotels.
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OʻahuFree cancellationLearn to surf away from the crowds of Waikiki in a more local surf break. My goal is to have customers catch the most waves possible and capture all the moments on provided GoPro cameras. This surfing lesson is unique as I limit it to just two students. This maximizes wave count and overall quality of the experience. Videos and pictures are included at no additional cost.
OʻahuSells out fastFree cancellationEnjoy a private Circle Island tour tailored to your family, offering a stress-free and customizable experience. Explore remote beaches, savor local foods, visit historical landmarks, and encounter turtles at your own pace. Let us handle the planning so you don’t miss out on the best the island has to offer. This tour is COMPLETELY CUSTOMIZABLE, reach out after booking to create your perfect day based off the things you want to see! Available Monday-Saturday Tour 8 Hours(Approx) Up to 14 Guests l All Ages Pick Up Time 7am* Host Lunch Not Included
OʻahuFree cancellationHave you ever wondered how chocolate transformed from the fresh fruits of a small tropical tree? Immerse yourself in the shady orchards on a working cacao farm to see how the fresh fruits are harvested, cultivated. Enjoy tasting the diversity of flavors and aromas of chocolate that is both grown and made into chocolate in Hawaii.
OʻahuFree cancellationExperience O'ahu on a 99.9% customizable Waikiki: Personal and Custom Tour. This tour lets you customize and explore iconic landmarks and majestic beaches with breathtaking views from Diamond Head to the North Shore and anywhere in between, at your own pace. Custom Itinerary Options: King Kamehameha Statue • Iolani Palace • Hawaii State Capitol • Chinatown • National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific • Pali Lookout • Pearl Harbor Visitor Center • Ko Hana Rum Distillers • Green World Coffee Farm • Dole Plantation • Haleiwa Town • Waimea Falls Park • North Shore • Kahuku Farms Fruit Stand • Ritz Carlton Turtle Bay Resort • Giovanni Shrimp Truck • Polynesian Cultural Center • Chinaman’s Hat • Macadamia Nut Farm • Coral Kingdom Huli-Huli Chicken • Byodo-In Temple • Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden • Koolau Distillery • Kailua Town • Makapuu Lookout • Halona Blowhole • Halona Cove • Lanai Lookout • Kahala Lookout • Diamond Head Scenic Point • More or less!
OʻahuFree cancellationGuaranteed to Catch a Wave! Authentic Hawaii Surf Experience! We are Passionate about Creating the Best Surf Lesson for You! 1-on-1 teaching to allow the best learning environment! Safety is our number one priority. DLNR Surf Instructor Permit. CPR/First Aid Certified. Life Guard Certified.
OʻahuFree cancellation*Solo riders and groups larger than 4, please contact us directly to discuss your booking.* **Pictures taken by the guide are included!* Embark on an exhilarating electric bike tour from Waikiki to the enchanting Manoa Falls, immersing yourself in the natural splendor of Oahu. As we journey towards Manoa Falls, marvel at the island's diverse flora and fauna while relishing the gentle Hawaiian breeze. Arriving at the trailhead, we lock your bikes and embark on a guided hike through verdant rainforest trails to the majestic Manoa Falls. The Manoa Falls trail is where movies such as Jurassic Park and TV shows such as Lost were filmed! ** Please note that this tour does require light city riding to get to the Manoa Valley. You should feel comfortable riding a bike or e-bike to participate in this activity.
OʻahuSells out fastFree cancellationWitness the brilliant colors of a sunrise over Diamond Head crater. Ideal for early birds, couples or families who are up at the crack of dawn during their Hawaiian vacation due to time zone changes. As we start out our tour from Alawa’i boat harbor towards Diamond Head alongside of the Waikiki coast, it will be a short boat ride to reach the Turtle Canyon snorkeling site. This spot is known for the large numbers of sea turtles that float above the reef while the reef fish swim around them and clean their shells. When the turtles come up to breath, they can even be seen by our guests relaxing on the boat! After our snorkeling adventure we head towards Diamond head, these early morning hours are the best chance to see the Hawaiian spinner dolphins playing and swimming around the boat.
OʻahuFree cancellationYou may think you know Hawaii, but we promise you that we can show you a new side of Hawaii that’s beautiful beyond your wildest dreams. A full 1hr flight will take you completely around the island. We’ll show you famous landmarks, we’ll show you valleys and mountains and waterfalls. Your experience will be something you’ll never forget, we guarantee that. Private flights. Doors optional. Two to three seats available per flight. Book online or give us a call for a concierge like booking experience. Shorter flights are also available at lower cost. *Please call or e-mail for last minute availability (within 12 hours)
Editor's Pick
I chose these attractions because they are quintessential Oʻahu experiences. The hike up Lēʻahi (Diamond Head) delivers one of the most expansive views of the South Shore. Pearl Harbor is among the most significant historical sites in the United States. A day at the Polynesian Cultural Center offers a rare window into the cultures and traditions of the Pacific Islands. And no trip to Oʻahu is complete without witnessing the legendary surf of the North Shore’s Seven Mile Miracle.
— Sarah Burchard
Hawaiʻi is a special place — different from anywhere else in the United States. If I could have done one thing differently before my first visit to Oʻahu, I would have read up on how Hawaiʻi became a U.S. state first. I would have also learned more about traditional Hawaiian culture and customs. That context makes all the difference in how you experience the people and places of the island. You’ll learn that aloha is not simply “hello” and “goodbye” in Hawaiian, it is a way of life, one that honors and considers everyone and everything, including the land, sky and ocean.
When planning your trip, always factor in travel time and the time difference. The closest flights are still five hours away, and Hawaiʻi runs two to three hours behind the U.S. West Coast — meaning you could lose the better part of two days just getting there and back. Give yourself time to arrive, adjust and relax before heading home. I always recommend staying at least a week.
One thing to keep in mind about Oʻahu is the traffic. This is the most heavily populated and visited island in Hawaiʻi and our streets and highways reflect that. Sometimes it takes 45 minutes to drive back to Waikīkī from the North Shore and sometimes it takes almost three hours. Always make plans with a buffer of time for traffic, and make a point of venturing beyond wherever you are staying.
Four essentials for making the most of your time on the island.
Honolulu’s Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) receives non-stop flights from most major U.S. cities and internationally. Alaska, Hawaiian, Southwest, and United all fly direct from the West Coast. Book early — peak summer and holiday fares can nearly double.
Things to do on OʻahuIf you’re staying in Waikīkī, skip the rental car for the first few days — the neighborhood is walkable and TheBus reaches most of the island cheaply. For the North Shore, Kailua, or Hanauma Bay, a rental car makes the most sense.
Getting around OʻahuWaikīkī puts you on the beach with every price point covered — from budget hotels to luxury resorts, all steps from the water. For a quieter stay, Kailua is 30 minutes away with a small-town feel and one of the best beaches on the island. Ko Olina on the west side is ideal for families.
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Editor · Oʻahu
Sarah Burchard has called Oʻahu home since 2017. A Honolulu-based freelance writer and editor, she covers food, culture and travel for publications including Hawaii.com, Hana Hou, FLUX Hawaiʻi, Forbes, Hawaiʻi Magazine and Honolulu Magazine. What keeps her rooted here goes beyond the balance of city life and sunny beaches — it is the people, the values and the culture of aloha that make her stay. Sarah is also a devout yogi and regularly volunteers with ʻāina-based organizations across the island. Read more of her work at sarahburchard.com.
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