The best things to do on O’ahu

O'ahu, often referred to as "The Gathering Place," is a vibrant island in the heart of Hawaii that beckons travelers with its stunning landscapes, rich cultural history, and endless adventure opportunities.

From the bustling city streets of Honolulu and historical depths of Pearl Harbor, to the legendary surf waves of Waikiki Beach, breathtaking trails of Diamond Head and more, O'ahu is a treasure trove of experiences.

Whether you're a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or a foodie, O'ahu’s diverse attractions promise to captivate your senses and leave you longing for more. I’m sharing the best things to do on O’ahu, highlighting the must-visit spots and hidden gems that make this island truly unforgettable!

What you need to know before visiting O’ahu

Thinking of traveling to O’ahu? Here’s everything you need to know before you go!

The best time to visit O’ahu

The weather on O'ahu is pleasantly tropical year-round, characterized by only minor variations in temperature across the seasons, making it a fantastic destination at any time of the year.

Why you should visit O’ahu in Winter: Winter brings cooler weather to O'ahu, with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to high 70s Fahrenheit, and is considered the wet season, though showers are usually brief and followed by sunshine. This season is ideal for surfing, as the North Shore hosts some of the world's premier surfing competitions, and for experiencing the island's dynamic ecosystems and humpback whale watching off the coast.

Why you should visit O’ahu in Spring: Spring on O'ahu brings milder weather with average temperatures ranging from the high 60s to low 80s Fahrenheit, creating ideal conditions for outdoor activities without the intense heat of summer. This season sees a gradual decrease in rainfall, making it a perfect time for hiking, surfing, exploring the island's natural beauty, and participating in cultural events like the Honolulu Festival.

Why you should visit O’ahu in Summer: Summer on O'ahu is marked by hot and sunny days with temperatures often climbing into the mid-80s to low 90s Fahrenheit, accompanied by higher humidity levels. This is the peak season for tourism, offering excellent conditions for beach-goers, water sports enthusiasts, and those looking to enjoy the vibrant outdoor life and cultural events.

Why you should visit O’ahu in Fall: The fall season sees a slight cooling with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit, and the island experiences less rainfall compared to the summer months. This period offers a more tranquil island experience, perfect for enjoying the less crowded beaches, outdoor adventures, and the lush landscapes after the summer rains.

WHERE TO STAY ON O’ahu

The most popular city to stay in on O'ahu is Honolulu. As the capital city of Hawaii, Honolulu is the vibrant epicenter of the island, combining the natural beauty of the Pacific with the amenities of a bustling city.

It's home to the famous Waikiki Beach, a hotspot for tourists with its stunning shoreline, great surfing conditions, and a plethora of hotels, shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Honolulu also offers cultural and historical sites, such as the Iolani Palace, the only royal palace on American soil, and the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, making it an ideal base for exploring the rich history and culture of Hawaii.

The city caters to a wide range of preferences and budgets, with accommodations ranging from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels, ensuring something for every traveler. Here are some of the top places to stay in Honolulu:

BUDGET-FRIENDLY

MID-RANGE

LUXURY

Want to stay on budget AND treat yourself to a day at a luxury resort? You should give ResortPass a try!

Check out this post for more details on how ResortPass works: Here’s How You Can Book Day Passes at Luxury Hotels Around the World

HOW TO GET AROUND on O’ahu

The island of O'ahu, the third largest of the Hawaiian Islands, spans an area of approximately 597 square miles (1,545 square kilometers). It is about 44 miles (71 kilometers) long and 30 miles (48 kilometers) wide at its widest point.

O'ahu is known for its diverse landscapes, ranging from the bustling city life of Honolulu and the famous beaches of Waikiki to the rugged mountains and rural countryside of the North Shore and the Windward Coast.

With that being said, you will definitely want your own car for exploring O’ahu! Everything is spread out so driving yourself around will be more appropriate, especially if you want to hit up some of the cool places on this list! I recommend renting a car in advance with Discover Cars or Turo.

The top 14 best things to do on O’ahu

There are lots of things to do and see on the beautiful island of O’ahu! I’ve rounded up the top X for you below (in no particular order).

1. Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial

Visiting Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial is a profoundly moving experience that offers insight into one of the most pivotal moments in U.S. history. The memorial, accessible only by boat, stands directly above the sunken USS Arizona, serving as a somber reminder of the December 7, 1941, attack that propelled the United States into World War II. This historical site not only pays tribute to the 1,177 crew members who lost their lives but also provides visitors with educational exhibits and tours that chronicle the events of that fateful day, making it an essential visit for anyone traveling to O'ahu.

2. Kualoa Ranch

Kualoa Ranch, nestled against the stunning backdrop of O'ahu's lush Windward Coast, is a 4,000-acre private nature reserve celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and diverse recreational activities. Renowned as a filming location for numerous Hollywood blockbusters, including Jurassic Park and Lost, the ranch offers guests a unique opportunity to explore its scenic valleys through guided tours, such as ATV rides, horseback riding, ziplining adventures, and a visit to Secret Island Beach!

3. Diamond Head Crater Hike

The Diamond Head Crater hike is a popular yet moderately challenging trail that takes visitors to the summit of one of Hawaii's most iconic landmarks. With a 1.6-mile round-trip journey, the hike includes a steep 560-foot ascent, involving 175 steps, tight switchbacks, and a narrow tunnel, culminating in breathtaking views of Waikiki and the Pacific Ocean. It's a must-do for anyone looking to catch a glimpse of O'ahu's natural beauty, all while getting a bit of exercise and some seriously Instagram-worthy shots at the top!

4. Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden

Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden is a breathtaking oasis on O'ahu that's a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the island's natural beauty up close. With its lush landscapes that span 400 acres, the garden offers miles of walking trails, a catch-and-release fishing program, and guided nature walks, ensuring there's plenty to do and see. The stunning views of the Ko'olau Range, combined with the garden's rich collection of tropical plants from around the world, make it a photographer’s paradise, offering endless opportunities for capturing that perfect, serene Instagram-worthy photo!

5. Waikiki Beach

Waikiki Beach is the pulsing heart of Hawaiian beach culture, renowned for its golden sands stretching along the south shore of Honolulu. This iconic destination is a paradise for surfers of all skill levels, offering gentle waves for beginners and challenging breaks for the experienced. Beyond surfing, visitors can enjoy stand-up paddleboarding, catamaran cruises, and beachside yoga, or simply soak up the sun while watching the world go by. With its vibrant atmosphere and stunning views of Diamond Head, Waikiki Beach is a bustling hub of activity and beauty, making it a must-visit spot for anyone traveling to O'ahu.

6. Halona Blowhole and Beach Cove

Halona Blowhole and Beach Cove are tucked away on O'ahu's southeastern coast, offering visitors a spectacular natural show where the ocean water forcefully shoots through a lava tube, creating a dramatic spray. The adjacent Halona Beach Cove, famous as the filming location for the movie "From Here to Eternity," is a picturesque spot ideal for swimming and snorkeling in calmer conditions. To get there, drive along the Kalaniana'ole Highway (Route 72) towards the southeastern tip of O'ahu; the lookout for Halona Blowhole is well-marked and offers parking. To the left of the parking lot near the street, lies a small unmarked trail that leads down to the secluded cove below.

7. Kahuku Roadside Food Court and Food Trucks

The Kahuku Roadside Food Court, nestled on O'ahu's North Shore, is a haven for foodies seeking authentic Hawaiian and multicultural cuisine. We actually found out about this spot from the Netflix series Street Food: USA. This casual, open-air collection of food trucks and stalls offers everything from delicious poke bowls and Hawaiian BBQ to exotic treats and local delicacies, providing a taste of the island's diverse culinary landscape. Sadly the food trucks we wanted to visit were closed that day (Da Bald Guy and Ry’s Poke Shack), but that didn’t stop us from chowing down at some other spots like Raised by the Waves (the Aloha bowl is amazing) and Tina Fresh Fruit Smoothie (get the whole pineapple).

8. Makapu'u Tide Pools

The Makapu'u Tide Pools, located on O'ahu's southeastern coast, offer a unique natural attraction for visitors seeking adventure and the beauty of marine life in shallow, clear pools. The trail to the pools is approximately 2 miles round trip and can take about 1-2 hours to complete, and is rated intermediate in difficulty so please do take your time and exercise caution. To get there, start on the paved Makapu'u Lighthouse Trail. This trail then diverges at the third rest stop, marked by a sign about whales, where the descent to the tide pools begins. This portion of the hike involves navigating steep, rocky terrain with loose rocks, so it’s important to pay careful attention and wear proper footwear. Ideal conditions for visiting are during low tide for safer swimming, and sunny days enhance the vivid blue of the pools against the black lava rock. It's crucial to wear sturdy shoes, check the tides, and remain cautious of the ocean's unpredictability for a safe and enjoyable experience.

9. Lanikai Pillbox hike

The Lanikai Pillbox Hike, officially known as the Kaiwa Ridge Trail, is a moderate hike located on the windward side of Oahu, offering some of the most spectacular views of the Kailua-Lanikai coastline. The trail spans about 1.7 miles roundtrip and typically takes 60-90 minutes to complete, depending on your pace. The hike begins steeply but levels out, featuring ropes at the beginning to assist with the climb. Despite the steep start, it's a great hike that rewards hikers with breathtaking views of Lanikai Beach, the Mokulua Islands, and the Koolau Mountain Range. Parking can be tricky though since the trailhead starts in a residential area; so try to park legally along the street or consider parking at Kailua Beach and walking to the trailhead, which could add about 20-25 minutes to your hike.

10. Hanauma Bay State Park

Nestled in a volcanic cone on Oahu's southeastern coast, Hanauma Bay is celebrated for its stunning marine ecosystem and status as a top snorkeling destination. Established as a protected area in 1967 to conserve its vibrant marine life, the state park requires visitors to watch an educational video on preservation and safety before exploring its clear waters. The bay offers a tranquil environment for swimming and snorkeling, showcasing a diverse array of fish and coral species. The fee to park and enter is $25 for adults and free for children under 12.

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11. Dole Plantation

The Dole Plantation in Oahu, Hawaii, offers visitors a glimpse into the island's pineapple-growing heritage, featuring educational tours, a pineapple express train ride, and the world's largest maze. Originally operated as a fruit stand in the 1950s, it has evolved into a popular tourist destination, celebrating Hawaii's agricultural history. Visitors can also enjoy the plantation garden tour to learn about various tropical plants and indulge in fresh pineapple treats like the viral Dole whip at the country store.

12. Kualoa Regional Park

Kualoa Regional Park, located at the northern end of Kane'ohe Bay on Oahu, is a serene destination famed for its panoramic views of Mokoli'i Island and the Ko'olau Mountains (this is great photo location to capture both). This park provides a tranquil escape with its calm waters, ideal for kayaking to the nearby island, and a spacious lawn perfect for leisure activities like picnicking. It's also a spot that holds cultural significance, once sacred to early Hawaiians due to whale bones that washed ashore, used for jewelry and tools.

13. Turtle Canyon

Turtle Canyon, located off the coast of Waikiki in Oahu, is a renowned snorkeling spot famous for its vibrant coral reefs and the Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles. This underwater paradise is only assessable via boat tour and offers a unique opportunity to swim alongside these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. For the best experience, it's recommended to visit during the morning hours when the sea is calmer, providing clearer visibility. Remember to use reef-safe sunscreen only and respect the wildlife by keeping a safe distance from the turtles.

14. Manoa Falls

Manoa Falls is a popular hiking destination located at the end of Manoa Road in Honolulu, offering an easy to moderate 1.6-mile round-trip trail through lush rainforest ending at a spectacular 150-foot waterfall. The hike typically takes about 1-2 hours to complete, depending on pace and conditions. Make sure to wear proper footwear due to muddy and slippery sections, and while swimming at the falls isn't recommended due to the risk of falling rocks, the scenic beauty of the trail and the falls themselves provide a rewarding experience for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Looking for things to do and see on Maui?
Check out this post: 28 Best Things to Do on Maui, Hawaii

The Best Things to Do on O’ahu, Hawaii

The best things to do on O’ahu