What to do in Oahu, HI

Activities, attractions and tours
Oahu

Things to Do in Oahu

When rest and relaxation are in order, there is perhaps no better place to visit than Oahu. The clock always reads island time in this Hawaiian destination, and there are plenty of ways to forget about your worries back home. Things to do in Oahu include the cultural and the athletic. Naturally, you can always soak up some Vitamin D while you’re on the island, too. From the vibrant crowds on Waikiki Beach to the reinvigorating solitude afforded by inland jungle landscape, Oahu has something for everyone.

Areas & Neighborhoods on Oahu

People often think of white ribbons of sand when they imagine a trip to Hawaii, and you will encounter no shortage of coastline on a vacation to Oahu. Still, if it’s lush landscape or busy city streets you’re after: The island still delivers. The neighborhoods and cities in Oahu are diverse and exciting.

Honolulu — As the capital of Hawaii, Honolulu is a hub for business and entertainment. Naturally, this means some of the best things to do in Oahu, Hawaii make their homes here. Downtown Honolulu and Chinatown are particularly popular among visitors, and Waikiki Beach offers a place to get sand in between your toes.

Windward Coast — The Windward Coast region of Oahu is on the southwest side of the island, just a short drive from Honolulu. Visit sites like the Makapuu Point Lighthouse and Nuuanu Pali Lookout while you’re in the area.

Leeward Coast — Situated on the western side of the island, the Leeward Coast is at the base of the Waianae Mountains. The climate here is notably drier than other parts of Oahu, and the region has far less tourism than the Windward side. Visit the Leeward Coast for a secluded surfing excursion or quiet beach day.

North Shore — People-wise, the North Shore is also quite tame when compared to the hustle and bustle of Honolulu. This side of the island is deal for snorkeling, hiking to waterfalls, and strolling through charming beach villages, not to mention the famous big wave surfing opportunities here.

Things to See in Oahu

Before you step into your hiking boots or swim fins, there are lots of things to see in Oahu, not the least of which are the spectacular views. Grab your best camera and head to spots like Diamond Head Crater and Puu Ualakaa State Park for a chance to take a frame-worthy snapshot. Of course, you can also be entertained on the island. Oahu activities like luaus put you front and center with dancers and other performers. You can also take in a refined performance at the Oahu Ballet or one of the island’s many theaters.

Things to Do & Attractions in Oahu

Oahu offers lots of opportunities for adventure by both land and sea. If you want to keep your feet dry, head to Leahi (Diamond Head) or the Waimea Valley for a day hike. Not only will you burn some calories, but you can enjoy wonderful views and take in the diverse terrain. When it comes to water activities on Oahu, adventures range from body boarding at Hanauma Bay to outrigger canoe rides at Waikiki. Guided Oahu tours let you see different parts of the island in the same day without getting lost.

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Most fun & popular experiences in Oahu


Popular places to visit

Explore areas of Oahu

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Waikiki

4.5/5(105 area reviews)

Located on the south shore of Honolulu, this neighborhood is known internationally for its great surfing and beautiful beaches.

Waikiki
Ala Moana Beach Park which includes a coastal town, tropical scenes and surfing

Ala Moana

If you're spending some time in Ala Moana, Ala Moana Center and Magic Island are top sights worth seeing.

Ala Moana
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Diamond Head - Kapahulu - St. Louis

4.5/5(3 area reviews)

If you're spending some time in Diamond Head - Kapahulu - St. Louis, Waikiki Beach and Honolulu Zoo are top sights worth seeing.

Diamond Head - Kapahulu - St. Louis
USS Arizona Memorial showing a memorial

Western Honolulu

3.5/5(6 area reviews)

Known for its abundant dining options and waterfront views, there's plenty to explore in Western Honolulu. Top attractions like Pearl Harbor and Honolulu Harbor are major draws, and you can catch the metro at Hālawa / Aloha Stadium Station or Pouhala / Waipahu Transit Center Station to see more of the city.

Western Honolulu
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve showing landscape views and general coastal views

Eastern Honolulu

The pristine beaches and ample dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Eastern Honolulu. A stop by Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve or Kahala Beach might round out your trip.

Eastern Honolulu
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Downtown Honolulu

Many of Hawai’i’s most important historic sites and beautiful buildings are clustered together here at the hub of the city, with the ocean just a short walk away.

Downtown Honolulu

Day trip destinations from Oahu