Oahu, the third-largest Hawaiian island, is packed with adventure, culture, history, and relaxation. If you’re looking for world-famous beaches, scenic hikes, cultural experiences, or delicious local food, Oahu has something for everyone.Here’s a list of the top 10 things to do in Oahu.

Things to Do in Oahu

1. Relax on Oahu’s Best Beaches

Oahu is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. A few must-visit spots include:

• Waikiki Beach – A lively beach perfect for beginner surfers and sunbathers.
• Lanikai Beach – Known for its soft white sand and turquoise waters.
• Sunset Beach – A famous surf spot in winter, with calm waters in summer.
• Hanauma Bay – A top snorkeling destination with vibrant coral reefs.
• Makapu’u Beach – A scenic beach with strong waves and a nearby lighthouse hike.

2. Hike to Stunning Views

Oahu offers hiking trails ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs. Some of the best include:

• Diamond Head Crater – A popular hike with panoramic views of Waikiki.
• Koko Head Crater Trail – A steep but rewarding climb with 1,048 steps.
• Lanikai Pillbox Hike – A short, scenic trail with stunning beach views.
• Manoa Falls Trail – A lush rainforest hike leading to a 150-foot waterfall.

3. Visit Pearl Harbor National Memorial

One of the most significant historical sites in the U.S., Pearl Harbor features:

• USS Arizona Memorial – A tribute to those who lost their lives in the 1941 attack.
• Battleship Missouri – The site where WWII officially ended.
• Pacific Aviation Museum – A fascinating look at military aviation history.

Location: Honolulu

Admission: Free for the USS Arizona Memorial, fees for other attractions

4. Experience Polynesian Culture

For an immersive cultural experience, visit:

• Polynesian Cultural Center – Live performances, hands-on activities, and an authentic luau.
• Iolani Palace – The only royal palace in the U.S., showcasing Hawaiian history.
• Byodo-In Temple – A peaceful Japanese temple with stunning gardens.

5. Take an ATV Tour at Kualoa Ranch

Explore the lush landscapes where movies like Jurassic Park were filmed. Kualoa Ranch offers:

• ATV and UTV tours through breathtaking valleys.
• Movie site tours showcasing famous filming locations.
• Horseback riding and ziplining adventures.

Location: Kaneohe

Cost: Around $150 per tour

6. Go Shark Cage Diving

For an adrenaline rush, experience an up-close encounter with sharks in a safe, underwater cage.

Location: Haleiwa, North Shore

Cost: Around $100-$150 per person

7. Try the Best Local Food

 

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Oahu is a food lover’s paradise, offering:

• Plate Lunch – Rice, macaroni salad, and a protein like kalua pork or loco moco. Try it at Rainbow Drive-In.
• Poke – Fresh marinated raw fish, best at Ono Seafood or Ahi Assassins.
• Garlic Shrimp – A must-try at Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck on the North Shore.
• Dole Whip – A refreshing pineapple treat at Dole Plantation.

8. Snorkel in Crystal-Clear Waters

Oahu has some of the best snorkeling spots in Hawaii:

• Hanauma Bay – A protected marine sanctuary with colorful fish.
• Sharks Cove – A great North Shore snorkeling spot (despite the name, it’s safe!).
• Electric Beach – Known for its warm waters and vibrant sea life.

Tip: Bring your own snorkel gear or rent from a local shop.

9. Watch a Spectacular Sunset

Oahu’s sunsets are unforgettable. Some of the best spots include:

• Sunset Beach – True to its name, this North Shore spot is breathtaking at dusk.
• Magic Island – A scenic park near Waikiki with great sunset views over the harbor.
• Tantalus Lookout – A panoramic view of Honolulu, perfect for sunset-watching.

10. Explore Oahu’s Hidden Gems

Beyond the famous attractions, check out these off-the-beaten-path experiences:

• Ka’ena Point – A remote coastal hike with scenic views and wildlife.
• Mermaid Caves – A hidden sea cave on the west side of Oahu.
• China Walls – A lesser-known spot with dramatic ocean cliffs.
• Makapu’u Tide Pools – Natural tide pools near the Makapu’u Lighthouse hike.

Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Oahu

1. What are the must-see attractions in Oahu?

Oahu has many iconic attractions, including:

• Pearl Harbor National Memorial – Home to the USS Arizona Memorial and Battleship Missouri.
• Waikiki Beach – A world-famous beach with great surfing and a lively atmosphere.
• Diamond Head Crater – A popular hike offering breathtaking views of Honolulu.
• Hanauma Bay – A marine sanctuary with excellent snorkeling opportunities.
• Kualoa Ranch – A scenic spot known for movie tours, ATV rides, and ziplining.

2. What are the best beaches in Oahu?

Oahu is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Hawaii, including:

• Waikiki Beach – Best for beginners learning to surf.
• Lanikai Beach – Known for its soft white sand and clear blue water.
• Sunset Beach – Great for watching big wave surfing in the winter.
• Hanauma Bay – One of the best snorkeling spots on the island.
• Makapu’u Beach – A scenic beach with strong waves, great for bodyboarding.

3. What are the best hikes in Oahu?

For amazing views and outdoor adventure, try these hikes:

• Diamond Head Crater – A short but steep hike with panoramic views.
• Koko Head Crater Trail – A challenging climb with over 1,000 steps.
• Lanikai Pillbox Hike – A scenic trail overlooking Lanikai Beach.
• Manoa Falls Trail – A rainforest hike leading to a 150-foot waterfall.
• Ka’ena Point Trail – A coastal hike with a chance to see wildlife.

4. What are some fun things to do in Oahu with kids?

Oahu is great for families, offering:

• Honolulu Zoo – Home to tropical animals and family-friendly exhibits.
• Waikiki Aquarium – A small but fascinating aquarium with Hawaiian sea life.
• Dole Plantation – Take a train ride, navigate the pineapple maze, and enjoy Dole Whip.
• Polynesian Cultural Center – A fun and educational experience with island activities and a luau.
• Hanauma Bay – A safe snorkeling spot where kids can see tropical fish.

5. What are the best snorkeling spots in Oahu?

• Hanauma Bay – The most famous snorkeling spot, with calm, clear waters.
• Sharks Cove – A North Shore snorkeling spot with plenty of marine life.
• Electric Beach – Warm waters attract a variety of tropical fish.
• Kuilima Cove – A beginner-friendly snorkeling area near Turtle Bay.

Tip: Bring your own snorkel gear or rent from a local shop.

6. What are some unique activities to do in Oahu?

• Shark Cage Diving – Get up close with sharks in a safe underwater cage.
• ATV Tour at Kualoa Ranch – Explore stunning landscapes featured in Jurassic Park.
• Sunset Catamaran Cruise – Relax and enjoy beautiful ocean views at sunset.
• Mermaid Caves – Visit a hidden sea cave on the west side of the island.
• Night Snorkeling with Manta Rays – A unique underwater experience.

Final Thoughts

Oahu is an island full of adventure, history, and culture. Whether you’re looking for beaches, hikes, historical sites, or local food, there’s something for everyone.