
Things to do in Oahu
Welcome to Oahu
This island gem—the third largest of Hawaii’s eight—offers city entertainment to the south and outdoor adventure to the north, just an hour’s drive apart. History buffs can visit Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona or get a taste of the island at the Polynesian Cultural Center. Experience the outdoors, from snorkeling to sailing to jetskiing to just plain lounging on Waikiki Beach, or with a hike up Diamond Head. And be sure to plan a night at a traditional lu’au; visit to Haleiwa on the North Shore for garlic shrimp and shaved ice; and trip to the Halona Blowhole to snap photos.
Why you are seeing these recommendations
Top 15 attractions in Oahu
Pearl Harbor National Memorial
11,619
Made up of several historic sites and memorials, Pearl Harbor honors and educates the public about the Japanese attack on the United States on December 7, 1941 that propelled the country into World War II. It’s one of Hawaii’s most-visited attractions, and one of the country’s most significant WWII memorial sites.More
Oahu North Shore
22,400
Surfing is king on Oahu’s North Shore, where summer’s placid snorkeling spots are transformed into pounding 40-foot (12-meter) waves come winter. On land you’ll find a peaceful respite from hectic Honolulu, with scenic waterfall hikes, sleepy farms selling tropical fruit, and food trucks doling out garlic shrimp.More
Halona Blowhole
30,240
Once visitors are aware that hālona means “lookout” in Hawaiian, it becomes quite clear what the Halona Blowhole is about: views, Pacific Ocean and blowhole! The Halona Blowhole is one of the most spectacular natural wonders on O’ahu Island; the more than 1,000-year-old geyser-like rock formation is characterized by a hole which propels incoming surf in a narrow, molten lava tube, shooting sea spray high into the air as a result - sometimes up to 30 feet. This is mostly a summery phenomenon but wintertime also has a big ticket item drawing visitors: humpback whales. The lookout point offers unobstructed views of the O’ahu shoreline as well as glimpses of Lanai and Moloka'I Islands on clear days.The coast is home to a special type of coral that requires very little light to live, the Sinularia Leather Coral, where it is possible to find various species like echinoderms, slugs, corals, and eels. And although the marine life is quite plentiful and fascinating, divers should proceed with caution because of the strong and sometimes erratic currents, including the colloquially named Moloka'i Express, which can drag divers out to sea without warning. Visitors should know that below the hālona is one of the most dangerous ocean currents in the world, and should always proceed with care.More
Diamond Head
24,537
Arguably Hawaii's most well-known sight, Diamond Head Crater is more than just a famous Waikiki backdrop but also an entire attraction unto itself, featuring one of Oahu's best hikes for a panoramic view. From atop the 760-foot (231-meter) summit, visitors can gaze out from Koko Head Crater to the Honolulu skyline and down on Waikiki Beach, where surfers, paddlers, sailboats, and canoes all splash through the tropical waters.More
Dole Plantation
30,704
What started out as a Wahiawa fruit stand in the middle of the pineapple fields in 1950 is now an extremely popular Hawaiian attraction. The sprawling Dole Plantation in central Oahu is a rural throwback to a time when the pineapple helped rule Oahu’s economy. Visitors can sample the sweet yellow fruit, ride on the famous Pineapple Express train and motor out through the fields, take a walk through a huge garden maze, learn how to find fresh pineapple when grocery shopping, and hear how pineapples are grown on plants—and not underground or on trees.More
Makapuu Lighthouse
13,078
Within Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline on Oahu’s Windward Coast, the Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail is a popular hike ending at the historical red-roofed Makapu’u Lighthouse, built in 1909. Though the lighthouse is not open to the public, the moderately challenging hike attracts travelers and locals alike for its stunning coastal views.More
Mokolii Island
15,751
Located a short distance offshore of Kualoa Point, Mokolii Island is one of Oahu’s most famous landmarks. This small, cone-shaped island attracts adventurous visitors with its secluded coves, rugged hikes, and views of Oahu’s windward coast and the Koolau mountains; the same mountains featured in scenes of the movie Jurassic Park.More
Waikiki Beach
9,102
For decades, Waikiki Beach has been Oahu’s tourist mecca thanks to its palm-fringed white-sand beaches and high-rise luxury hotels that stretch from downtown Honolulu east toward the towering Diamond Head. Here all the spoils of Hawaiian beach life—from sunbathing and swimming to snorkeling and fruity-cocktail sipping—are within steps of world-class shopping and dining.More
Sandy Beach Park
12,213
When U.S. President Barack Obama shared that Sandy’s was his favorite Oahu beach early in his presidency, it went from a popular locals’ beach to just plain popular. This public stretch of white sand just north of the extinct Koko Head Crater is no languid oasis, however; it’s one of Oahu’s best—and most intense—spots for bodyboarding and bodysurfing. A fierce shore break best suited for experienced surfers sometimes wells into powerful barrels that can pummel riders trying to catch a wave.The spot is often coupled with a visit to the neighboring Halona Blowhole, a lookout point where waves regularly blow spray up through eroded crevices in the lava rock. And when the wind kicks up, it’s not uncommon to see families flying kites on the spacious lawn fronting the sand.More
USS Arizona Memorial
14,697
The USSArizona Memorial floats above the watery site where the eponymous battleship was bombed and sunk, taking 1,177 lives with it, in Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. The solemn, all-white memorial features a marble wall of names of those who served onboard and spans theArizona’s width, with openings to look down on the sunken hull.More
Battleship Missouri Memorial
8,035
Nicknamed the “Mighty Mo,” the USS Missouri—now known as the Battleship Missouri Memorial—is the site where the Japanese signed the surrender documents that ended World War II, on September 2, 1945. The ship is now a museum and a memorial to the war’s conclusion.More
Hanauma Bay
19,217
Hanauma Bay State Park is a protected marine-life-preservation area with clear water ideal for snorkeling and a vast array of tropical fish and coral reefs surrounded by volcanic rock. Once used by the Hawaiian royal family for fishing, it is now one of Oahu’s top tourist destinations with about 1 million visitors each year.More
Tropical Farms Macadamia Nut Farm
25,154
Located on the east coast of Oahu, 20 miles (32 kilometers) north of Honolulu, Tropical Farms Macadamia Nuts is set in the shadow of the mountains of the Koolau Range and is a stop on many circle-island tours. It’s a great place to enjoy a Hawaiian treat and shop for gifts and souvenirs.More
Nu'uanu Pali Lookout
14,478
Oahu’s Nu‘uanu Pali Lookout offers panoramic views of the Ko‘olau Mountains. The windy perch, more than 1,000 feet (300 meters) above Oahu’s Windward (northeast) coastline, also overlooks Kaneohe, Kaneohe Bay, Kailua, and the island of Mokoli‘i. In the late 1700s, the viewpoint was the scene of a bloody battle won by King Kamehameha I.More
Byodo-In Temple
16,652
Surrounded by lush grounds, Oahu’s Byodo-In Temple is tucked away in the Kahaluʻu Valley at the foot of the Koʻolau mountain range. A replica of a temple in Japan’s Kyoto Prefecture, the landmark is a testament to the island’s strong Japanese community.More
Trip ideas

10 Ways to Experience Hawaiian Culture in Honolulu
From hula lessons to hi’uwai ceremonies, here’s how to make the most of Honolulu’s culture.

Top 4 Spots for Culture Lovers on Oahu
From luaus to surf workshops, there are so many ways to explore Oahu's culture.

How to Get Off the Beaten Path on Oahu
Take the road less traveled on Oahu with these top under-the-radar spots.

Must-See Museums on Oahu
From Pearl Harbor Historic Sites to Bishop Museum, here are the top spots.

6 Must-See Honolulu Neighborhoods and How to Visit
See everything Honolulu has to offer on your next visit to Oahu.

10 of the Top Hiking Trails on Oahu
Trek to some of Hawaii’s most beautiful spots, from volcanic craters to blissful beaches.

Top Shopping Spots on Oahu
From Chinatown to Haleiwa Town Center, here are some of the best shopping destinations in Oahu.

Must-Try Street Food on Oahu
From raw fish to fried donuts, don’t leave this Hawaiian island without sampling its tastiest gastronomic delights.

Visiting Oahu for the First Time? Here's What to See and Do
Make the most of your trip to Oahu with our tips for first-time visitors.

Where to Find the Best Views on Oahu
Soak up the scenery on Oahu, Hawaii's most populous island.

Know Before You Go: Visiting Pearl Harbor
Enjoy your stop at this popular Oahu attraction with our top tips.
5-Star activities in Oahu

From
US$183.25

Royal Crown of Oahu - 60 Min Helicopter Tour - Doors Off or On
- 345
- 1 hour
- Free Cancellation
From
US$395.00
From
US$395.00
Price varies by group size

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All Inclusive Ultimate Circle Island Day Tour with Lunch and Waimea Waterfall
- 1350
- 10 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
US$145.55
From
US$145.55

From
US$85.28

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From
US$89.00

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From
US$125.33

From
US$130.00

North Shore Circle Island Adventure Including Snorkeling with the Turtles
- 2879
- 8 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
US$145.55
From
US$145.55
Explore our promoted experiences

Likely to Sell OutLikely to Sell Out
From
US$47.00

North Shore Circle Island Adventure Including Snorkeling with the Turtles
- 2879
- 8 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
US$145.55
From
US$145.55

From
US$130.00

From
US$75.00

From
US$75.00

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Hidden Gems of Oahu - Circle Island Tour with Waimea Waterfall
- 1619
- 8 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
US$139.00
From
US$139.00

Oahu 10 Stop Circle Island Tour + Byodo-Inn+ Free Dole Pineapple
- 813
- 8 hours 45 minutes
- Free Cancellation
From
US$133.99
From
US$133.99

Full day Island Rainbow Circle Island Tour with Snorkeling
- 82
- 4 hours 35 minutes
- Free Cancellation
From
US$72.00
From
US$72.00
Recent reviews from experiences in Oahu
See Oahu from the Air!
Joelle_A, Mar 2023
Royal Crown of Oahu - 60 Min Helicopter Tour - Doors Off or On
I had been to Oahu before and it was so fun to visit all the destinations again, but from the air.
This was an amazing way to experience a first helicopter ride. I had been to Oahu before and it was so fun to visit all the destinations again, but from the air. Kerry is an awesome pilot!
What a great start to our vacation
Morgan_B, Mar 2023
Manoa Waterfalls Hike with Local Guide
We had such a great day hiking up to the tallest waterfall in Oahu.
Rolf is an amazing guide, super knowledgeable and kind. We had such a great day hiking up to the tallest waterfall in Oahu. I would recommend this for anyone who loves nature. The hike itself is really novice and not difficult.
Can’t go wrong with this tour
Jason_B, Mar 2023
Waikiki Trolley Hop-On Hop-Off Tour of Honolulu
Best way to see the island of Oahu with such limited time.
Fun ride and our driver/guide RJ was very informative and not boring. Best way to see the island of Oahu with such limited time.
Fun experience
Elizabeth_P, Mar 2023
Hanauma Bay Snorkeling
I got to see so many fish.
This was such a fun experience. I got to see so many fish. The lady at the stand (by the beach) gave us tips on where to see the most fish and it was very helpful! My only wish is that we had gotten an underwater camera. Definitely add this to your itinerary on your trip to Oahu.
North shore fun
Sheila_C, Mar 2023
Full-Day North Shore Activities Tour from Oahu
We did the waterfall and paddle boarding with a little shopping at the end.
Uncle Kevin, our tour guide, was very personable and knowledgeable. It was a long day but really fun! We did the waterfall and paddle boarding with a little shopping at the end. The north shore is a must when visiting Oahu.
Paul and Geoffrey were...
Khai_P, Mar 2023
All Inclusive Ultimate Circle Island Day Tour with Lunch and Waimea Waterfall
charming island and we really love the Waimea Waterfall hike.
Paul and Geoffrey were super nice and helpful...understood Hawaiian history and culture a lot better from the guide. Fourth time to Oahu, but felt like being here for the first time...charming island and we really love the Waimea Waterfall hike.
A fun and informative day long tour
Michaelyn_P, Mar 2023
Full-Day North Shore Activities Tour from Oahu
Since I booked through third party Viator, be sure you contact the tour operator directly to get more detail on the days activities!
We toured with Sam. He is a resident on Oahu and was very informative during our tour. Laid back tour in a small group. I highly recommend Northshore Surf Bus. Since I booked through third party Viator, be sure you contact the tour operator directly to get more detail on the days activities!
Quinton gave us an oral...
Randy_Y, Mar 2023
Airport Shuttle Round Trip Honolulu and Waikiki or Cruise Terminal
Quinton gave us an oral guide to activities on Oahu.
Quinton gave us an oral guide to activities on Oahu. We also left a piece of luggage on the van and he contacted us and made arrangements to bring it right back to us. Above and beyond!
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All about Oahu
Currency
US Dollar ($)
Time Zone
HST (UTC -10)
Country Code
+1
Language(s)
English