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E Noa Tours | Oahu's Best Tours | All Admissions Included

We offer the best value pearl harbor tour, the most 5-star rated tours on tripadvisor, oahu's top guided tours.

With 50 years of experience, E Noa has helped generations of visitors see the best of Oahu, learn about the culture, and enjoy a fantastic vacation.

50 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE IN HAWAII

For half a century E Noa Tours have helped generations of visitors see the best of Oahu, learn about the culture, and enjoy a fantastic vacation. Nobody knows the island like our master tour guides who will take you on an unforgettable and authentic Hawaiian voyage.

Pearl Harbor Remembered Tour

Elevate your Pearl Harbor experience with our Pearl Harbor Remembered Tour, the premium package that includes an immersive visit to the USS Missouri. Find yourself in history and honor those who served with… MORE

USS Arizona Memorial
USS Missouri
Downtown Honolulu City
Duration: About 7h
Pick-up From Waikiki and Ko Olina

Majestic Circle Island Tour

From breathtaking natural landscapes to hidden gems, we make sure you get the most out of our Circle Island Oahu Tour. Join us to explore the wonders of the island in comfort, knowing you’re receiving top-notch value… MORE

Oahu's BEST VALUE Circle Island Tour!

The Iconic Island Tour
Knowledgeable Local Guides
Duration: About 9h
Lunch Included

Salute to Pearl Harbor Tour

We take pride in offering the island’s best value Pearl Harbor Tours. Our friendly guides are not just experts in history, but they’re also passionate about creating an unforgettable experience for you. A visit to this historic site… MORE

The BEST VALUE Pearl Harbor Tour in Honolulu!

Duration: About 5h
Pick-up From Waikiki & Ko Olina

Pearl Harbor City Tour

Embark on the Pearl Harbor City Tour, a captivating adventure that includes a narrated exploration of downtown Honolulu. Dive into the rich history of the city as you discover the profound significance of Pearl Harbor. Join us for a tour that… MORE

Pick-up From Waikiki

E Noa Tours

– serving up aloha since 1974 –.

With almost 50 years of experience , E Noa Tours is your trusted partner for Oahu adventures that leave an enduring mark on your memory.

Our flagship experience, the Circle Island Tour , is an ode to Oahu’s beauty, from its stunning landscapes to its rich culture. Explore the island’s diverse terrain, from lush forests to pristine beaches, and immerse yourself in its unique heritage.

Join us and let E Noa Tours open the door to Oahu’s extraordinary world of wonder and discovery. Your adventure starts here!

Best Value Island Tours

Our tours offer the best value on Oahu by providing top-notch customer service, memorable tours, and carefully planned, well-organized tour itineraries.

Hawaii's Best Tour Guides

Ask around, our staff is the best! Our guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and experienced in making unforgettable island adventures.

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Historic pearl harbor tours.

Experience Pearl Harbor’s history with our guided tours. Our visits include monuments and exhibits honoring the USS Arizona, the Pacific Aviation Museum, and more. Our knowledgeable guides will help you understand the events before and after the attack, as well as the sacrifices made to protect the nation. Book your tour today for a meaningful experience.

Book your Oahu Adventure Today

Our local guides will show you the best of the island, from must-see destinations to hidden gems. Our tours offer unbeatable value, so you can see and do more without breaking the bank. Experience the beauty and diversity of Oahu like never before.

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Book our private charters for any occasion and create unforgettable memories! From tours to weddings, our experienced crew will make sure you and your guests receive the best service for a stress-free and enjoyable experience. Contact us now to learn more.

Hawaii Tours FAQ

The ideal stay on Oahu can vary, but a common recommendation is about 5 to 7 days. This allows you to explore the island’s major attractions, enjoy some beach time, and get a taste of its unique culture. Of course, the more time you have, the more you can discover!

Oahu is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit for great weather and fewer crowds is typically from mid-April to early June and September to mid-December. These are the shoulder seasons, providing a more relaxed and pleasant experience.

It takes roughly 1.5 to 2 hours to drive around the entire island if you’re taking the scenic route without many stops. However, exploring the island thoroughly with stops at various attractions will take a full day or more. For reference, our Circle Island Tour lasts around 9 hours.

Guided tours offer you the expertise of local guides who can provide insights, take you to the best spots, and ensure you make the most of your visit. Whether it’s a historical tour, a hiking adventure, or a cultural exploration, guided tours can make your Oahu experience truly memorable.

Among the multitude of tours available on Oahu, the two most iconic and highly sought-after experiences are the Circle Island Tours and Pearl Harbor Tours. These tours have consistently garnered immense popularity among visitors, offering distinct and compelling attractions that captivate the hearts of tourists from around the world.

While several transportation options are available, guided bus tours stand out as the most comfortable and economical means of experiencing all that Hawaii has to offer. Guided bus tours provide an unbeatable combination of comfort, convenience, and affordability. They offer travelers a stress-free and leisurely way to explore Hawaii’s most famous attractions and hidden gems.

For your first visit to Hawaii, Oahu is an ideal choice due to its well-developed infrastructure, making it easy to explore the island. Oahu offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly choices, and is equipped with modern amenities. You can enjoy diverse activities, from relaxing on famous beaches like Waikiki to exploring cultural sites like Pearl Harbor. The island’s culinary scene and cultural experiences are rich and varied, providing a well-rounded introduction to Hawaii’s offerings. Whether you’re interested in relaxation, adventure, or cultural immersion, Oahu has something to offer every traveler.

Hawaii’s weather is characterized by a tropical climate, offering warm temperatures year-round. Coastal areas typically experience temperatures in the 70s and 80s Fahrenheit (20s to 30s Celsius) during the day, with relatively mild fluctuations between seasons. Trade winds provide a pleasant breeze, especially in the summer. While Hawaii does have wet and dry seasons, rain showers are common but brief, with the wetter season occurring from November to March. The leeward (west) sides of the islands tend to be drier, while the windward (east) sides receive more rainfall. Overall, Hawaii offers pleasant weather for outdoor activities and beach visits throughout the year.

Choosing the best Hawaiian island to visit depends on your preferences. Oahu is great for first-timers, offering a mix of culture, activities, and infrastructure. Maui is known for its natural beauty, including the Road to Hana and Haleakalā. The Big Island (Hawaii) is perfect for adventure seekers with its volcanoes and diverse landscapes. Kauai is a haven for nature lovers, famous for its lush, pristine scenery. Molokai and Lanai are quieter and less touristy, ideal for a more relaxed experience.

Like what you see? Book your trip today!

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Sharing the Aloha Spirit is an important part of what we do at E Noa, and that’s reflected in how we communicate with our guests and friends. If you have a question about our tours, drop us a note or give us a call! We’re happy to answer your questions.

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Compare Our Pearl Harbor Tours

Salute to pearl harbor, pearl harbor remembered, pearl harbor city, majestic circle island, holiday lights tour, group tours, waikiki trolley, hits airport shuttle, privacy policy.

Experience Pearl Harbor, North Shore, Circle Island

Embark on an extraordinary island adventure and uncover the best of Oahu!

At IMI Tours, we specialize in providing unforgettable Oahu experiences. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty and cultural richness of Hawaii’s most vibrant island with our expertly crafted Oahu tours. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, our guides will take you on a journey to uncover the hidden gems, iconic landmarks, and authentic experiences that make Oahu a must-see destination. Get ready to make memories that will stay with you forever with IMI Tours.

Choose from a variety of Oahu tours departing from Ko ‘Olina and Waikiki, including Circle Island tours and visits to popular attractions like Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial.

Pearl Harbor and Historic Sites in Honolulu

Step back in time and honor the heroes of World War II with our Pearl Harbor and Historic Sites tour. Immerse yourself in history as you visit the USS Arizona Memorial, USS Missouri, and the Pacific Aviation Museum. Our knowledgeable guides will provide captivating insights into the events that shaped the course of history, offering a profound and educational experience.

Circle Island Adventure

Embark on a breathtaking Circle Island Adventure tour and witness the natural wonders of Oahu. Marvel at the panoramic views of the famous Diamond Head, the majestic Hanauma Bay, and the iconic North Shore’s world-renowned surf breaks. Along the way, you’ll encounter picturesque beaches, lush rainforests, and stunning waterfalls, capturing the essence of Oahu’s diverse landscapes.

Oahu Grand Circle Island Tour

Experience the best of Oahu with our comprehensive Grand Circle Island Tour. From the stunning Pali Lookout to the beautiful Byodo-In Temple, you’ll discover the island’s top attractions. Dive into the vibrant local culture as you visit the Dole Plantation, sample delicious Hawaiian treats, and learn about the island’s rich heritage at the Polynesian Cultural Center. This tour offers a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and cultural immersion.

North Shore Beaches

For surf enthusiasts and beach lovers, our North Shore beach tour is a dream come true. Explore the world-famous North Shore, where massive waves attract professional surfers from around the globe. Capture the laid-back vibe of Haleiwa Town, indulge in local delicacies, and relax on pristine sandy beaches. Immerse yourself in the true essence of Hawaiian beach culture.

Let IMI Tours be your guide to the wonders of Oahu, where every moment is filled with beauty, culture, and the spirit of aloha. Book your unforgettable journey now and get ready to embark on an extraordinary island adventure!

Enjoy a personalized experience with our small group tours, fostering a more intimate and immersive atmosphere.

Our knowledgeable and passionate guides are Hawaii experts, sharing their insights and stories to enhance your Oahu tour experience.

IMI Tours maintains a high standard of safety, ensuring your peace of mind throughout the journey. From sanitized vehicles to professionally trained guides, we aim to deliver an experience that exceeds your expectations.

Resort pick-ups and drop-offs from downtown Honolulu, Waikiki resorts, and more.

Non-invasive eco-tourism company committed to sustainability and supporting local businesses within our community.

Grand Circle Island Tour – From Ko ‘Olina

From $165/person.

Oahu Circle Island Tour – From Waikiki

From $155/person.

WWII: Honor our Heroes & Historic Honolulu

From $154/person.

USS Arizona Memorial and Historic Honolulu

From $50/person, book tours and activities on oahu, things to do on oahu.

Oahu, known as The Gathering Place , may seem like an unassuming little island, but it is one of the most amazing places to travel to in the world with turquoise ocean views and extensive white sand beaches to dense rain forests and a cities rich with culture and history. Book your Oahu tours, attractions, and excursions through IMI Tours plus here are just a few of the many other things you can do during your stay:

Lu’au – When in Hawaii, attending a Lu’au is probably the most popular thing to do for visitors. There are performances of a mix of Polynesian cultural dances, songs, and chants, as well as a feast of Hawaiian food. One of the most well known on the Oahu is the Kuhio Beach Torch Lighting & Hula Show . Grab a spot on the beach, sit back, and relax while taking in a classic island tradition.
Surfing – Oahu is home to the Banzai Pipeline , which is known all around the world as one of the best barrels in wave riding. We offer surf tours on the North Shore… reserve your excursion today!
Go to the Beach – Waimea Bay Beach Park changes dramatically with each season. If you’re looking to visit for a swim in the crystal waters, the best time to visit is from June to September, but if you’re interested in surfing, then the winter months are the time to go.
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve – Home to a 7,000-year-old coral reef, schools of glittering fish, and the possibility of running into a sea turtle or two, this is a wonderful place to appreciate nature and help keep it preserved.
Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial are among the top places to visit when coming to Oahu. IMI offers a variety of options, but these book fast so arrange your tour in advance.

37 Best Things To Do In Oahu Hawaii (Fun, Couples, Free)

Even though the island of Oahu is the most populated island in Hawaii, it’s just as beautiful as the other islands, and there are so many good things to do in Oahu for every kind of traveler.

Some of the best things to do in Oahu Hawaii include hikes , beaches, waterfalls, botanical gardens, water sports, wildlife sightings, and more.

There are also some less conventional things to do in Oahu island, like seeing lighthouses, visiting the Pear Harbor memorial, or touring the Jurassic Park film site.

I’ve been privileged to visit the Hawaiian islands many times (often for months at a time), so I’ve done a bunch of hiking, exploring, and sightseeing all over Oahu, including some of the most far flung corners of the island.

This travel guide is our complete list of the best things to do in Oahu Hawaii!

Table of Contents show Where To Stay In Oahu Best Things To Do In Oahu Hawaii 1. Hike The Trails 2. Visit The Pillboxes 3. See The Waterfalls 4. Climb The Stairway To Heaven 5. Climb A Volcano Crater 6. Visit The North Shore 7. Relax On The Beaches 8. Stroll A Botanical Garden 9. Try Shave Ice 10. See The Lighthouses 11. See The Wildlife 12. Take A Scenic Drive 13. Tour The Film Sites 14. Visit The Dole Plantation 15. See The Rainbows 16. Go Island Hopping 17. See The Landmarks 18. Visit Pearl Harbor Memorial 19. Enjoy The Viewpoints 20. See A Temple 21. Go Snorkeling 22. Take A Helicopter Tour 23. Go Whale Watching 24. Take A Gyroplane Flight 25. Try Watersports 26. Skydive In Paradise 27. Swim With Sharks 28. Go Cliff Jumping 29. Visit Tropical Farms 30. Watch The Sunrise 31. Watch The Sunset 32. Visit The Museums 33. Experience Hawaiian Culture 34. Eat Poké Bowls 35. See The Malls 36. Shop For Souvenirs 37. See The Rest Of Hawaii Map Of Best Things To Do In Oahu Hawaii Oahu Hawaii: Areas Explained How To Get Around Oahu Hawaii Oahu Hotels Best Tours In Oahu Hawaii More Things To Do In Oahu Hawaii

Where To Stay In Oahu

Hyatt Centric

Lotus Honolulu

Hilton Waikiki

Best Things To Do In Oahu Hawaii

1. hike the trails.

Oahu island has almost 300 documented hiking trails, featuring jagged green mountains, coastal views, jungles, and waterfalls.

Many of these hikes are easy and doable for all ages or fitness levels, although Oahu also has epic and dangerous hikes for the serious thrill seekers.

Some of the best hikes in Oahu include Ka’ena Point , Koko Head , and the Crouching Lion hike . Easy trails for families include Diamond Head and the Pu’u Ma’eli’eli hike.

2. Visit The Pillboxes

During World War II, the U.S. military built concrete bunkers all around the island of Oahu as lookout posts for spotting enemy activity.

These bunkers, or ‘pillboxes’ as they’re called, usually have stunning views of the Oahu coastline and some of them are nicely perched for watching the sunrise or sunset.

The two most famous pillbox hikes in Hawaii are the Diamond Head Lookout and the Lanikai Pillbox Trail , although they can get a bit crowded. Visit some of the others (like the Ma’ili pink pillbox ) if you want to escape the crowds!

Lanikai Pillbox Hike

3. See The Waterfalls

There are dozens of nice waterfalls on Oahu island, and they can usually be reached with a short, easy hike through the jungle.

Don’t expect any giant Jurassic Park-style waterfalls like the ones on Kauai or the Big Island, but Oahu’s falls are still worth a visit.

It’s a fun change of scenery from the beach and mountains, and sometimes you can swim in the water too. Two of our favorite waterfall hikes are Maunawili Falls and Lulumahu Falls, which are both very scenic but require a bit of work to reach.

The most popular and family friendly waterfalls to visit in Oahu are Waimea Falls and Manoa Falls, although the latter one (Manoa) is a bit seasonal and it tends to dry up easily, so you’ll want to check the conditions before you go.

Lulumahu Falls

4. Climb The Stairway To Heaven

This hike is so amazing it deserves a special mention. It’s also epic, scary, and slightly illegal. Still interested?

The infamous ‘Stairway to Heaven’ takes you to the top of the Ko’olau mountains via 3,922 metal stairs of pure adrenaline and doom. At some points, the stairway is almost vertical, clinging to the side of the steep mountain.

There’s an old World War II radio station at the top of the mountain, but the stairway has been closed since the 1980s, and fines of up to $1,000 have been given out to people caught climbing it. The area is even patrolled by security guards around the clock.

Still, thousands of people make the climb every year, and for good reason — it’s one of the most spectacular hikes on Earth!

5. Climb A Volcano Crater

Another famous hike in Oahu that deserves a special mention is the Koko Crater Trail ! This one is an endurance test that takes you up 1,048 stairs on the steep slope of an extinct volcano crater.

The island of Oahu doesn’t have any active volcanoes with lava flows like the ones on the Big Island of Hawaii, but it does have several dormant volcano craters left over from ages past, and it’s fun to visit them even if it’s just for the novelty of walking on a volcano!

Many Hawaiian locals and tourists alike enjoy the Koko Head stairs for the good workout and calorie burn, and the sunrise and sunset are also known for being spectacular. It’s not a dangerous hike, but it’s a real fitness test and this slog may not be enjoyable for everyone. It’ll definitely make your legs sore the next day!

Two other extinct volcano craters you can climb in Oahu are Diamond Head and the Ka’au Crater. Diamond Head is family friendly and relatively easy, while Ka’au is long and difficult. Both are great!

Best Things To Do In Oahu Hawaii Fun Couples Free Koko Head Volcano

What to do in Oahu — climb the extinct Koko Head volcano crater!

Best Things To Do In Oahu Hawaii Fun Couples Free Koko Head Stairs Hike

A hiker at the top of Koko Crater trail . Amazing views!

6. Visit The North Shore

The north shore of Oahu island is known for its fantastic sand and waves, snorkeling and sea turtle spotting, bargain food trucks, and overall laid back vibes.

To be fair, the north shore is no secret anymore, and there’s plenty of tourist traffic here, but it still manages to be one of the more quiet and undeveloped corners of Oahu island. Compared to Waikiki, it’s a totally different experience.

During the winter, the north shore is also known for having some of the biggest waves in the world, and it’s fun to watch the pro surfers riding the giant swells at the Banzai Pipeline.

Whether you’re a surfer, a snorkeler, or a family with kids, you should definitely check out the north shore at least once while visiting Oahu!

Best Things To Do In Oahu Hawaii Fun Couples Free North Shore Beach

The north shore is still the ‘quiet side’ of Oahu Hawaii

7. Relax On The Beaches

There are so many white sand beaches in Oahu it’s hard to choose a few to highlight, but I’ll try.

On the windward side of the island, Lanikai Beach has powdery white sand and it’s ranked as one of the best beaches in the world.

On the north shore , two great choices are Laniakea Beach (where you can spot sea turtles) and Sunset Beach.

Even the touristy beaches at Ala Moana and Waikiki are pretty nice if you can handle the crowds. Regardless of which side of the island you decide to explore, you’re sure to encounter some fantastic beaches!

8. Stroll A Botanical Garden

The island of Oahu is home to a bunch of different botanical gardens — at least eight of them!

Aside from having thousands of interesting plant and tree species, these gardens are nice for taking a stroll or snapping photos, usually featuring their own ponds or waterfalls.

Arguably the best botanical garden in Oahu is Ho’omaluhia, which has walking paths that wrap around a koi pond, and stunning green mountain backdrops that are fit for Jurassic Park. It’s one of our favorite free activities in Oahu.

Best Things To Do In Oahu Hawaii Fun Couples Free Hoomaluhia Botanical Garden

Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden — What To Do In Oahu Hawaii

Lyon Arboretum — Located right outside Manoa Falls, this is a 194-acre tropical rainforest featuring 5,000 exotic plants, singing birds, and a self-guided hike.
Wahiawa Botanical Garden — You can visit this one on the way to the Dole Plantation, or the north shore. It’s a 27-acre high elevation garden that’s free and underrated.
Waimea Valley — A beautiful jungle valley on the north shore, and it also has a nice waterfall of its own.

9. Try Shave Ice

You can’t leave Oahu island without trying shave ice, the iconic frozen treat of Hawaii.

They have dozens of fun flavors like bubblegum, guava, lemon, and passion fruit, plus add-ons like ice cream, Azuki beans, and Mochi (Japanese rice balls).

You can find good shave ice shops in every corner of the island, but one of the best (and the most famous) is definitely Matsumoto’s Shave Ice , which is located on the North Shore .

This shop dates back to 1951, and they make some of the best shave ice we’ve had anywhere in Oahu Hawaii!

Here are some other good shave ice shops to check out:

Island Vintage Shave Ice (Honolulu)
Shimazu Shave Ice (Honolulu)
Waiola Shave Ice (Honolulu)
Banan (Honolulu, Waikiki, Kailua)
Island Snow (Kailua)

Best Things To Do In Oahu Hawaii Fun Couples Free Shave Ice Waikiki Honolulu

Shave ice is always a fun treat in Hawaii

10. See The Lighthouses

Lighthouses may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of tropical islands, but Oahu is actually home to a number of them, including two very photogenic ones.

Makapuu is Oahu’s most famous lighthouse, and you can see it up close by hiking the Makapuu Lighthouse Trail, which is a family friendly hike on the southeast corner of the island.

The Diamond Head lighthouse is another good one. It’s not open to the public, but you can see it from the road nearby, or hike the Diamond Head crater for even better views from above.

If you want to get off the beaten path, check out the Barber’s Point Lighthouse , which is located directly on the beach in Kapolei, with a nice view of the sunset!

Makapuu Lighthouse

Aerial view of the Makapuu Lighthouse

11. See The Wildlife

Hawaii is home to several native wildlife species, including the chubby Hawaiian monk seals.

If you’re lucky, you can also spot whales, sea birds, turtles, and all kinds of colorful fish. Seeing this wildlife in its natural environment is definitely one of the best things to do in Oahu!

Remember to keep a healthy distance from wildlife, especially the seals and turtles. They’re endangered and highly protected, so you can get hefty penalties for being too close.

Here are a few great places to see wildlife in Oahu:

Ka’ena Point — You’re practically guaranteed to see seals and Albatross birds here, plus occasional whales in the distance! This is a family friendly hike on the northwest corner of Oahu.
Makapuu Lighthouse Trail — Hands down one of the best spots to see whales from the shore! This is a family friendly hike on the southeast corner of Oahu.
Laniakea Beach — One of the best places to see turtles on the beach. They come here almost every day and like to lounge on the sand.
Hanauma Bay — This nature preserve is Oahu’s most famous place to go snorkeling. You can see lots of colorful fish here, up close and personal. Great place to learn how to snorkel!

Best Things To Do In Oahu Hawaii Fun Couples Free Hawaiian Monk Seal

Hawaiian monk seal lounging on the beach

Sea turtles!

12. Take A Scenic Drive

The island of Oahu has a bunch of scenic roads where you can enjoy the landscape without even stepping out of your car.

A favorite is the coastal route from Waimanalo to Hawaii Kai, driving along the Kalanianaʻole highway as it travels the southeast coastline and circles the Koko Head Crater .

Another good one is the drive from Kaneohe to the North Shore, which gives you stellar views of the green Ko’olau mountains and the windward coastline.

Last, but not least, the North Shore is always good for a scenic drive. This stretch of the Kamehameha highway, from Laie to Haleiwa, is covered with good beaches!

Best Things To Do In Oahu Hawaii Fun Couples Free Koko Head Crater Coast Scenic Highway Drive Koko Head Crater

Drive the scenic Kalanianaʻole highway!

13. Tour The Film Sites

The original Jurassic Park movie was filmed in Oahu, and many other blockbusters have since made use of the island’s tropical scenery and beaches.

That includes popular Hollywood hits such as King Kong, Jumanji, The Hunger Games, Godzilla, and the Jurassic Park sequels, which all had scenes filmed in Oahu.

The most popular filming location in Hawaii is Kualoa Ranch, where they sell tours of all the film sites, as well as other fun activities like four wheeling and zip lining.

Book Now: Hollywood Movie Sites Tour

Best Things To Do In Oahu Hawaii Fun Couples Free Jurassic Park Valley Movie Film Site

The Jurassic Park film site at Kualoa Ranch

Jurassic Valley

14. Visit The Dole Plantation

The Dole Plantation is a fun, free place to see on your way to the North Shore of Oahu island.

Sure, it’s a bit of a tourist trap, but I think it’s still worth at least one visit for the souvenirs, history, and ‘Dole whip’ ice cream (pineapple soft serve).

They also have a pineapple shaped garden maze (billed as the world’s largest) and lots of other fun activities for families.

Red pineapple

Garden maze

15. See The Rainbows

The Hawaii state license plate features a rainbow, and there’s a good reason for that. These islands are loaded with rainbows. I don’t think I’ve ever seen so many rainbows in any other place on Earth!

There was even a 2021 study by Dr. Steven Businger that found Hawaii is the ‘rainbow capital of the world’ and has perfect conditions for rainbow sightings because of its latitude, trade winds, sunlight, and other weather conditions.

Can’t beat the Hawaiian rainbows!

16. Go Island Hopping

One of the best things to do in Oahu is island hopping to the nearby small islands and sandbars, particularly on the windward side.

For a real adventure, kayak over to Chinamans Hat and climb to the top of the rock! Alternatively, head over to the Kailua area and kayak out to the Mokulua islands, which are the little twin islands you can see from Lanikai Beach.

Or, if you fancy relaxing on a sandbar, there’s a big one near the coast of Kaneohe that can be reached by kayak, standup paddleboard, or a boat tour.

Best Things To Do In Oahu Hawaii Fun Couples Free Chinaman's Hat Island (Mokolii Island) Chinamans Hat Drone

Why kayak to the Chinaman’s Hat island ? Because you can get amazing views like this!

17. See The Landmarks

It’s worth spending a half day exploring Honolulu city and seeing the popular landmarks.

Two city landmarks that stand out are the King Kamehameha Statue, dedicated to the first ruler of the Kingdom of Hawaii, and the Iolani Palace, which was the home of Hawaii’s last reigning monarchs.

The Waikiki Trolley is a great way to get around town and see some of the sights. You can buy a trolley pass online .

Natural landmarks in Oahu are too many to list, but they include such gems as Diamond Head , Koko Head , Hanauma Bay, and Chinamans Hat Island (also known as Mokolii Island ).

Book Now: Honolulu City Tour

18. Visit Pearl Harbor Memorial

The Pearl Harbor Memorial is dedicated to the fateful attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, which killed over 2,400 Americans and marked the U.S. entering World War II.

This memorial and museum is a short distance from Waikiki and it’s open to the public seven days a week. The visitor center, two museums, and USS Arizona program are free for all visitors, but a guide is still helpful for explaining everything.

The highlight of this experience for me was touring the deck of the USS Missouri battleship, which is where the emperor of Japan surrendered on September 2, 1945, ending World War II. Aside from the history, the ship is also an impressive piece of hardware.

Book Now: Pearl Harbor Tour

19. Enjoy The Viewpoints

If you’re in the mood for scenery but don’t feel like hiking, check out some of the scenic viewpoints in Oahu!

Here are a few top recommendations:

Tantalus Lookout — Relaxing hilltop near Honolulu with stunning views of the city, rainbows, and the Diamond Head crater. Also good for sunset.
Nuuanu Pali Lookout — This is a popular viewpoint on the Pali highway, and it has panoramic views of the whole windward side of Oahu island. It’s also a historic landmark known for the Battle of Nuuanu in 1795, where King Kamehameha I won the struggle that finally united Oahu under his rule and hundreds of warriors were forced off of the Pali’s sheer cliffs.
Halona Blowhole Lookout — Also known as Eternity Cove, this is a popular coastal spot near Koko Head where you can see an active blowhole shooting out water. It also has Halona Beach, one of the nicest beaches on Oahu.

Halona Beach Cove

Tantalus Lookout

If you want to see even more viewpoints in Oahu, here are a few extra recommendations:

Makapuu Lookout — Not to be confused with the Makapuu Lighthouse Trail (which requires hiking), this is a nearby pulloff spot where you can park and get similar views of the Makapuu coastline without doing any hiking.
Lanai Lookout — Another coastal lookout by Koko Head, with panoramic views of the ocean and cliffs. Also good for sunrise.
Punchbowl Lookout — Small hill with scenic views of Honolulu city. This one is located inside of the Punchbowl Crater, so it requires a bit of walking to reach.
Laie Point — This is a remote, lesser known viewpoint with neat rock formations on the northeast corner of Oahu. It’s a good place to stop while driving from Kaneohe to the North Shore, or vice versa.

All of the scenic viewpoints listed above can be reached by car. No hiking needed!

20. See A Temple

Tucked in the hills of Kaneohe is a photogenic Buddhist temple called Byodo-In, and it’s open to tourists seven days a week.

Interestingly, it’s a true to life replica of a real Japanese temple by the same name , which can be seen near Kyoto, Japan.

The original Byodo-in Temple in Japan was built in the 11th century, while the one in Oahu was built in 1968 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the first Japanese immigrants coming to Hawaii.

It’s a very photogenic temple with a reflective pond, small waterfalls, Japanese landscaped gardens, an 18-foot tall Buddha statue, a giant brass peace bell, and schools of koi fish for the kids to feed.

Best Things To Do In Oahu Hawaii Fun Couples Free Byodo-in Japanese Temple

The photogenic Byodo-in Temple

21. Go Snorkeling

Hawaii’s most famous snorkeling spot is Hanauma Bay, which is home to about 400 species of fish in its turquoise waters.

Hanauma is a great place to learn how to snorkel because the entire bay is covered by a coral reef, making the water relatively gentle and shallow. You can see all kinds of colorful fish, sea turtles, eels, and more here.

I learned how to snorkel for the first time at Hanauma Bay, and it was such a fun experience! Being up close and personal with the fish is just amazing.

Book Now: Oahu Snorkeling Tour

22. Take A Helicopter Tour

If you really want to shell out some money and splurge on something special in Hawaii, nothing beats a scenic helicopter tour !

The island of Oahu is even more beautiful from above, and you can fly over some of its most famous landmarks, like Diamond Head, Makapuu Lighthouse, Chinaman’s Hat, and Sacred Falls.

These helicopter tours are normally available with the doors on, but they can also take the doors off for more thrills and better photography. It’s definitely one of the best things to do in Oahu!

Book Now: Oahu Helicopter Tour

23. Go Whale Watching

The whale watching season in Oahu generally runs from December to May, as this is when the whales like to come to the warm waters of Hawaii to breed and give birth.

You can sometimes see whales with the naked eye from shore, but the best way to get a good look is with a whale watching tour or boat charter.

Whale sightings are almost guaranteed if you come in the right season, and it’s an amazing experience!

Book Now: Whale Watching Tour

24. Take A Gyroplane Flight

If you want to experience one of the newest and most unique activities in Hawaii, check out the gyrocopter flights offered by Skyland Air !

In their 30 minute introductory flight lessons, you can take to the skies with an experienced pilot, soaring over the North Shore of Oahu while an onboard camera records your entire adventure. Think of it like flying in a helicopter, except with an open cockpit so you have even better views of the island scenery.

You can find out more about the gyro flights and how to book them on Skyland Air’s website here .

Gyro flight is a unique way to see Oahu island (photo courtesy of © Skyland Air )

25. Try Watersports

The Honolulu area is popular for watersports, and you can rent jet skis, banana boats, wakeboards, parasails, and more.

Me and a friend did the jet skiing one time and had a blast. Some of these companies also have photography services, so they can take pictures of you having fun on the water.

On the windward side of the island, Kailua is great for kayaking and standup paddle boarding. There are a bunch of companies offering kayak rentals for a half day or full day.

26. Skydive In Paradise

Skydiving is a once in a lifetime experience that many people have on their bucket list, and what better place to do it than in paradise?

Oahu has two reputable skydiving companies, Pacific Skydiving and Skydive Hawaii , which are both based on the North Shore, and they can provide pictures and videos of your jump.

I did a 14,000 foot tandem jump with Skydive Hawaii several years ago, and it was an amazing experience. Bucket list stuff, for sure!

Skydiving Hawaii

27. Swim With Sharks

If you want a unique thrill in Hawaii, you can dive with sharks on the North Shore!

The most popular shark diving tours have a metal cage for protection, and you can get up close with sandbar sharks, galapagos sharks, and hammerheads. It’s snorkeling, not scuba diving, so you don’t need any certification (although swimming experience helps).

Some of these companies also have cageless shark diving, where you can swim freely with sharks. I did this with One Ocean Diving and it was awesome.

Obviously there are no safety guarantees in the ocean, but their website points out that they’ve “taken hundreds of thousands of people out in the ocean with zero incidents for over twenty years.”

Book Now: Shark Diving Tour

28. Go Cliff Jumping

Cliff jumping can be a fun adrenaline rush, and the island of Oahu has no shortage of great cliff jumping spots, including some places near Honolulu.

Two local favorites that stand out are China Walls (near Hawaii Kai) and the big jumping rock at Waimea Bay (on the North Shore). Alternatively, for a good waterfall with a natural pool to jump into, you can check out Maunawili Falls!

Of course, this kind of activity comes with some risks and responsibilities. Go with a friend, know your limits, and always double check the conditions before you leap.

China Walls is a popular cliff jumping spot in Oahu Hawaii

29. Visit Tropical Farms

There’s a little store in windward Oahu called Tropical Farms , and they sell coffee, chocolate, and macadamia nuts.

This is a family owned business that’s been in operation for 30 years, and their store is located near the Kualoa Beach Park.

The main reason to come here is for the macadamia nuts, which are delicious. We love the Kona coffee flavored mac nuts.

They have free samples of every flavor, so you can do a taste test before you buy!

Coffee beans at the Tropical Farms store

30. Watch The Sunrise

A tropical sunrise is hard to beat, and there are plenty of good sunrise watching spots on the windward (east facing) side of Oahu island.

Some of our favorites include the Lanikai Pillbox Sunrise Hike , Lanikai Beach, Kualoa Beach Park, and pretty much any east facing beach.

Book Now: Oahu Sunrise + Photography Tour

Best Things To Do In Oahu Hawaii Fun Couples Free Lanikai Pillbox Sunrise Hike

Sunrise in Oahu

Lanikai Pillbox Sunrise Hike

31. Watch The Sunset

For every sunrise there’s a sunset, and Oahu has lots of great places to see it.

Pretty much any west facing beach on Oahu island has a good view of the sunset, so pick one and enjoy the photo ops! Some of our favorites include Ka’ena Point , Ala Moana Beach Park, and any of the North Shore beaches (especially Sunset Beach).

Better yet, you can book a sunset catamaran cruise and watch the sun dip below the horizon as you take in Hawaii’s beautiful coastline!

Book Now: Waikiki Sunset Cruise

Makaha sunset

32. Visit The Museums

For a slow day in Oahu, visiting a museum can be a great way to learn about the art and history of the island.

Here are some great museums to check out in Oahu:

Bishop Museum — The biggest museum in the state of Hawaii. It has lots of authentic Hawaiian artifacts, and all kinds of information on the history, culture, plants, and animals of the Hawaiian islands. There’s no better museum for learning about Hawaii.
Honolulu Museum of Art — A collection of fine art from Asia, Hawaii, and some famous international artists like van Gogh, Monet, and Picasso. You can also get an add-on ticket to visit Shangri-La, Doris Duke’s estate.
US Army Museum of Hawaii — This is a military museum where you can see tanks, helicopters, small arms, and more. There’s also a lot of historical info. Admission is free!
Tropic Lightning Museum — A true hidden gem for people who enjoy military history. This museum is part of the Schofield Barracks in central Oahu, but civilians can still visit with a temporary base pass.
Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum — You can see World War II fighter planes here, including a rare and authentic Japanese Zero. This museum is located off-site from the main Pearl Harbor visitor center, but you can reach it with a shuttle bus that runs regularly throughout the day.

The Bishop Museum is a great place to learn about Hawaiian history, culture, plants, and animals (© Wikimedia / Daniel Ramirez )

33. Experience Hawaiian Culture

One of the most popular ways for tourists to experience Hawaiian culture is by attending a luau (pronounced ‘loo-au’), which is a traditional feast with music, lei flower necklaces, and hula dancing.

If you want to take it a step farther, you can also make a visit to the family friendly Polynesian Cultural Center in Laie, which is located on the northern windward corner of Oahu island. Here, they have luau buffet dinners, live shows, canoe rides, arts and craft displays, and more.

We haven’t been to the 42-acre Polynesian Cultural Center yet, but it gets rave reviews and they’ve won a lot of awards, including the Kahili award for ‘Most Authentic Luau’ in Oahu island.

Book Now: Oahu Luau Feast & Show

34. Eat Poké Bowls

Poké (pronounced ‘poh-kay’) is a classic Hawaiian dish with cubed raw fish meat, usually served in a bowl with other ingredients like rice and veggies. The most common type of meat is tuna, but you can also find octopus poké.

Even though raw fish may not sound appetizing or healthy at first, you may be surprised by poké! It’s quite safe to eat, and it has plenty of protein. I was apprehensive of poké when I first tried it, but after eating one or two bowls I became a fan.

You can find poké shops all over Waikiki and Honolulu, and it’s even sold at Foodland supermarkets in Oahu! Give it a try!

Poké bowls are a classic Hawaiian dish ( © Wikimedia )

35. See The Malls

Oahu has a bunch of good malls to choose from in the Honolulu area. Here are the main choices:

Ala Moana Center — Biggest mall in Hawaii, with more than 350 shops and restaurants.
International Market Place — A mall in Waikiki with more than 90 stores.
Royal Hawaiian Center — Another mall in Waikiki with 110 stores and 30 restaurants.
Kahala Mall — A shopping center in eastern Honolulu with 100 shops and restaurants.
Pearlridge Center — Big mall in Aiea with more than 170 shops and eating places.

Some of these malls also have weekly live performances from hula dancers or local Hawaiian artists, which can be fun if you’re looking for free things to do near Honolulu and Waikiki!

The Honolulu area has a bunch of nice malls, including the Ala Moana Center. (© Wikimedia / Daniel Ramirez modified)

36. Shop For Souvenirs

Of course you can’t leave Oahu without grabbing some souvenirs for friends (or for yourself), and there are lots of places to do it.

The main place to shop for souvenirs in Oahu is at one of the many ABC Stores. This is a chain with lots of locations all over Waikiki and the Ala Moana area, near Honolulu.

These souvenir shops have a wide assortment of the usual gifts like Hawaii keychains, flower leis, stickers, postcards, fridge magnets, games, etc.

If you’re wanting a more unique souvenir from Hawaii, you could pick up a dashboard hula girl, some Kona coffee, or a dirt shirt. The dirt shirts are stained with bright red dirt from the Hawaiian soil, giving them a nice earth color.

Don’t forget to bring some souvenirs home from Hawaii

37. See The Rest Of Hawaii

When you’ve finally exhausted all of the fun things to do on Oahu, you’ve still only scratched the surface of Hawaii!

The other Hawaiian islands like Kauai, Mauai, and the Big Island are loaded with nice scenery, beaches, waterfalls, hikes, and all kinds of other fun things to do for couples, families, and solo travelers alike.

If you like Oahu, then you’re sure to love the other islands too. Inter-island travel is pretty easy in Hawaii, with flights taking less than 1 hour and ticket prices sometimes as low as $50 USD one way. You can shop for Hawaii flights at Skyscanner.

Enjoy and happy travels!

Map Of Best Things To Do In Oahu Hawaii

Here’s a fun map of some of the best things to do in Oahu Hawaii, including hikes, beaches, waterfalls, botanical gardens, shave ice shops, scenic viewpoints, and cultural attractions.

You can click the icons on the map to get more info on each point of interest, but keep in mind some of the locations on this map may be approximate.

For more detailed information on how to find the exact locations of each of these attractions in Oahu, you can check out my individual travel guides for each place.

Oahu Hawaii: Areas Explained

Oahu is an oddly-shaped island, but it can be split into four main areas with their own sights and activities.

These main areas are:

South. It’s the main tourist area, encompassing the city of Honolulu and Waikiki. It has the Honolulu International Airport (code: HNL) and many famous sites.
North. This is the island’s beloved quiet side, although it’s still very popular with tourists. Go here for surfing, food trucks, beaches, and country vibes.
East. Usually called the windward side, this area is home to Kailua and Jurassic Park (Kualoa Ranch), along with dramatic mountain views and some of the best beaches on the island.
West. This may be the driest and least touristy side of the island, but it still has plenty of hidden gem hikes and white sand beaches.

Regardless of where you choose to stay and explore, there are lots of great things to do in Oahu Hawaii on all corners of the island!

Best Things To Do In Oahu Hawaii Fun Couples Free

Lanikai Beach — one of our favorites in Oahu!

How To Get Around Oahu Hawaii

The best way to get around Oahu Hawaii is to rent a car and self drive, or take the bus . Either of these work well. Or, if you’re someone who likes to stay in one place (like Waikiki), then you may not need transportation at all! You can take a taxi from the airport and then book day tours to see more of the island.

Having a rental car is more flexible and efficient than the bus, although the latter is cheaper and sometimes more fun and convenient than driving. You can reach almost any corner of Oahu island by bus, but it’s quite a bit slower and sometimes requires a bit of walking.

Overall, whether you use a car or the bus just depends on your travel style and how long you’re staying in Oahu island. A rental car is great to have if it fits in your budget, but you can also use the bus to reach many of the best things to do in Oahu Hawaii!

Book Now: Rental Cars In Oahu

Oahu Hotels

Best tours in oahu hawaii, more things to do in oahu hawaii.

Thanks for looking! I hope you enjoyed this travel guide for the best things to do in Oahu Hawaii!

We’ve only scratched the surface here, and the list is always growing as we explore every corner of this wonderful island.

In the meantime, don’t forget to check out my complete Oahu Hiking Guide for more tips, info, and photos of the best hikes and other activities in Oahu!

Best Hikes In Oahu Hawaii – Most Epic & Beautiful Hiking Trails
Best North Shore Beaches In Oahu Hawaii

Oahu Bucket List: 45+ of the Coolest Things To Do in Oahu, Hawaii

Last Updated: April 8, 2024 // by Ashley Smith Leave a Comment

If you’re searching for the coolest things to do in Oahu to round out your Oahu bucket list, you’ve come to the right wahine . I’ve been to Hawaii a fair numbers of times already and, with the exception of a few days in Maui, I’ve spent all the rest of my time on the island of Oahu.

There are plenty of people out there who’d call me crazy. Yes, there are many other islands to explore. Yes, Oahu can be “touristy.” And yes, maybe the other islands are more beautiful. I get it. But don’t be so quick to write off the state’s main island. #hatersgonnahate

Oahu is so much more than resort-packed Waikiki Beach. There are actually so many awesome things to do here that you may never want to leave. So if you’ve got some time on Oahu coming up and you’re looking for the best ways to spend your days in paradise, start here with this super rewarding Oahu bucket list.

Table of Contents

2024 Oahu Bucket List

Best tools for your Oahu bucket list

In case you’re just beginning your Hawaii trip planning, here are the tools you’ll need for your Oahu bucket list. (These are the travel resources I always use myself.)

How to save money on your Oahu bucket list

I can’t stress this enough: if you’re looking to save money on your trip to Oahu, consider picking up an Oahu GoCity pass . This all-inclusive sightseeing pass includes a TON of the most popular items on the Oahu bucket list and all for one low flat fee.

You can choose from 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 7-day passes and you’ll save up to 50% on the cost of these awesome activities and attractions. Plus, they will literally refund you the difference if you don’t save money! (I personally love these kinds of all-inclusive passes and get them wherever I can.)

You can view the entire list of activities and attractions here, but I’ll also mention whether each item on the Oahu bucket list is included with the pass.

Check out the Oahu GoCity pass for yourself here.

Where to stay on Oahu

There are several different parts of the island you can stay in, and you can find awesome hotels and resorts in all of them. I always use Booking.com , but definitely check Hotels.com and Expedia for comparable deals.

To make things easy for you, here are some popular options:

Wayfinder Waikiki – One reviewer calls it “a funky little gem outside of the chaos of the main tourist area of Waikiki” and I think that’s perfect.
Prince Waikiki – Gorgeous property on the marina, great views, tons of on-site dining.
Turtle Bay Resort – Famous, gorgeous, top-notch accommodations on private land and shoreline.
Courtyard by Marriott Oahu North Shore – Friendly hotel in a quieter location that’s convenient to places like the Polynesian Cultural Center and Kualoa Ranch. (Both on this Oahu bucket list.)

Rental properties are another great way to go if you’re going to be spending significant time on the island or looking to share space with family and friends.

This is also the best way to go if you want to stay in parts of the island where there aren’t any hotels. (Which is most of the island actually!) Check out the many great options on VRBO to find a property that best fits your needs.

How to get around on Oahu

By far the easiest way to check off all the items on your Oahu bucket list is to rent your own car . Picking up rental cars at the Honolulu airport is notoriously a pain in the ass, but it really is worth it overall. And really, it’s the only way to efficiently get around the island. *sigh* The price you have to pay for paradise.

I always use RentalCars.com because I’ve found they have the best deals and the most rental companies available. (Some rental car sites don’t show you all the brands for some reason.)

Pro tip: Rent yourself either a convertible or a Jeep Wrangler. A convertible is just the best way to *island vibes* yourself around Oahu. And a Jeep is going to be necessary (or at least preferred) for some of the more rugged areas of the island.

Things to do on Oahu

In addition to the 45+ items on this Oahu bucket list, there are many more fun activities to do here. Take a look at all the Oahu options on Viator and Get Your Guide to see if there’s something else you might enjoy. (There really is so much to do here!)

And if you want more of a truly local experience, check out these great options from ToursByLocals , another favorite tour operator of my readers. All of these links take you right to the Oahu pages.

Have motion sickness?

I used to suffer from brutal motion sickness that controlled just about every aspect of my life. Until I cured myself. (No joke!) My Hawaii trip in 2013 and my desire to check off so many ocean-centered items on my Oahu bucket list was actually my breaking point.

If you also suffer from motion sickness, you’ll probably benefit from reading my post on the motion sickness cure that changed my life . THIS IS NOT A DRILL. Give it a read and see if it’s for you.

Now, let’s get to the Oahu bucket list!

1. Get lei’d at the airport

Any movie or TV show you’ve ever seen where someone arrives to the airport in Hawaii shows that person being greeted by someone putting a lei around their neck. Spoiler alert: this is not real life! (But… it can be !)

Being welcomed to Hawaii with a flower lei is a tradition that goes back to the early 1900s. However, as the number of tourists increased into the literal millions, that tradition became more exclusive and strategic.

If you’re meeting friends or family in Hawaii for the first time, there’s a good chance they’ll pony up and greet you at the airport with a lei. There are several lei vendors outside the airport where they can purchase real flower lei for their visitors.

Otherwise, you can totally arrange your own personal lei greeting at the Honolulu airport ! If getting lei’d at the airport has always been on your Oahu bucket list, don’t wait for your friends or family to move there, make it happen!

A lei-making class is included in the Oahu GoCity pass . Pro tip: Make sure you adhere to proper lei etiquette .

2. Visit Waikiki & Waikiki Beach

Hilarious, right? Me throwing Waikiki Beach out there right off the bat. It’s true that Waikiki is, like, far from the highlight of any Oahu bucket list, but it’s still something you should check out while you’re here. It’s the Eiffel Tower of Paris, the Colosseum of Rome; it’s Nick Tahou’s, home of the Garbage Plate , if you ever find yourself in Rochester, NY.

Waikiki is Hawaii’s main resort, shopping, dining, and nightlife area. It’s loaded with skyscrapers and traffic and bodies so sunburned it’ll make you cringe. But it’s also loaded with scenes from your favorite movies and TV shows, glitz and glamour, good food, and million dollar views. So there’s that.

Stay in Waikiki if you want to be at the center of it all, or just spend a day here seeing all there is to see. While you’re in Waikiki, don’t miss:

Three Waikiki activities are included with the Oahu GoCity pass : a cruise with snorkeling, surfboard rental, and sunset beach yoga.

3. Duke’s Restaurant

Duke’s Waikiki never disappoints with great food and service, spectacular views, and fun atmosphere. (Fabulous breakfast!)

4. The statue of Duke Kahanamoku

Getting a picture with the statue of Duke (Hawaiian legend and father of modern surfing) at the entrance to Waikiki Beach is a must for any Oahu bucket list.

5. Waikiki Beach

The most famous beach in Hawaii with priceless views of Diamond Head , sunsets, and wannabe surf legends. You can even take your own surfing lesson here at this iconic beach!

6. International Marketplace

Open-air shopping and entertainment area in the center of Waikiki. Great for picking up souvenirs for friends and family that you’ll probably end up keeping for yourself. No judgment, bruh.

7. Take a catamaran cruise

Sunset catamaran cruises out of Waikiki are one of the things that was most recommended to me for my latest visit to Oahu (August 2023). The one I just linked to has almost 700 reviews and 5 stars! (Two different Waikiki catamaran cruises are included in the Oahu GoCity pass .)

8. Explore Pearl Harbor

Every single Oahu bucket list should include a visit to Pearl Harbor, one of the most significant locations in U.S. history.

There are tons of sites to visit here, whether you’re a World War II buff (like myself) or not. If you want to just see the basics, you can; and if you want to spend two full days here (like myself), you can do that too.

Depending on how far you want to go into Pearl Harbor/WWII history will determine how many of the Pearl Harbor sites you should add to your Oahu bucket list. Either way, here are the top sites you should consider:

9. Pearl Harbor Visitor’s Center

To get the most rudimentary idea of what happened at Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, make this your first stop. The PH Visitor’s Center is free to visit and you’ll be able to explore the museum and watch a film that describes the events. *Bring tissues, just saying.

Be sure to check out my full guide to visiting Pearl Harbor . It has all the important stuff you NEED to know before you go and it’s full of helpful tips.

10. USS Arizona memorial

When people think of visiting “Pearl Harbor,” this is what they’re thinking of. Pearl Harbor is so much more than the Arizona memorial, but it has undoubtedly become the symbol of Japan’s attack on the United States. A visit to the Arizona is gut-wrenching but absolutely vital for your visit to Hawaii.

Visiting the Arizona is free and doesn’t take too much time. The site is run by the National Park Service and includes a roundtrip boat ride to the memorial and a little bit of time there. Visit the PH Visitor’s Center first if you want to learn about why this memorial is so significant. (A USS Arizona narrated audio tour is included in the Oahu GoCity pass .)

11. Battleship Missouri

The USS Missouri was a WWII battleship that served as the location of the surrender ceremony that ended the war. Great guided tours of the ship are included and you can see some really unique history here (like where a kamikaze plane hit the side, for example). (Admission is included in the Oahu GoCity pass .)

Also check out : Here’s How Much All Pearl Harbor Tickets Cost + How You Can Save

12. Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum

If you’re an aviation geek (like myself), you’ll love the PH Aviation Museum . Really cool collection and stories of WWII aircraft (but also other stuff too). You can also tour the historic hangar and see bullet holes from the December 7th attack all over the place. (Admission is included in the Oahu GoCity pass .)

13. Top of the Tower tour

The PH Aviation Museum just added a brand new feature: the Top of the Tower tour which takes you to the top of the air control tower. The views are incredible but the explanation of the Pearl Harbor attack from that vantage point is game-changing. This was one of the coolest things I did in 2023.

14. Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum

This is such a cool place to learn about submarine warfare. There’s a museum, tons of watercraft, a large memorial, and you can tour the entire USS Bowfin submarine . (Admission is included in the Oahu GoCity pass .)

15. Go snorkeling

Hawaii may be beautiful on top, but it’s just as stunning below the surface too. Be sure to squeeze some snorkeling into your Oahu bucket list. Two of the most popular spots for snorkeling are:

Hanauma Bay down on the southeasternmost tip of the island
Shark’s Cove in historic Haleiwa on the North Shore

But since these are some of the most popular areas, keep in mind that that means it’s probably going to be crowded . And I don’t know about you, but I hate getting slapped in the face with other people’s flippers. Turtle flippers? That’s another story.

The good thing about the Hawaiian islands is that you can literally drop a snorkel into just about any part of the ocean and you’ll see some awesome stuff. Visit these popular spots on your own or just bring your snorkel gear down to whatever beach you end up on .

If you want something a little more “expert” level, you can also book spots on some great snorkeling tours to make sure you hit up the best areas to see everything you want to see. (Like gnarly sea turtles, dude!)

There are four snorkeling options included in the Oahu GoCity pass , including Hanauma Bay.

16. Snorkel with wild dolphins

One of my most epic adventures to date was the day I spent with Wild Side Specialty Tours. This small-group snorkeling excursion is led by eco-conscience marine biologists and we were able to swim with wild dolphins, sea turtles, tons of fish, and even a pod of pilot whales. It was the most amazing day. (I did their Best of the West tour.)

Also check out my post on what it’s like snorkeling in Belize in the world’s 2nd largest barrier reef.

17. Spot a Humuhumunukunukuapua’a

…or at least learn how to say it! The Humuhumunukunukuapua’a is the state fish of Hawaii (and is much more easily referred to as a Reef Triggerfish). I learned this fun word on my first trip to Oahu back in 2007, and was so excited to finally see one while snorkeling here in 2013.

So while you’re out bobbing around the island of Oahu, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for one of these super colorful fish.

18. Hike Diamond Head Crater

You’ve seen Diamond Head probably a thousand times in photos of Waikiki/Honolulu, but did you know you can hike to the top ? The hike is relatively easy and will reward you with killer views of Waikiki.

The entire hike is on either a paved or dirt path which makes it fairly easy. But, it can be pretty steep and it’s fully exposed, so it’s very hot. Bring lots of water, wear a sun hat and protective clothing, and take it slow.

Diamond Head State Monument is run by the Division of State Parks. It costs $5 to enter, parking is $10, and you’ll need to reserve a time slot. Set aside about 2 hours on your Oahu bucket list to hike up and down the crater.

A Diamond Head shuttle and hike is included in the Oahu GoCity pass . And my full guide on hiking Diamond Head is in that link – it’s got everything you need to know!

19. Attend a luau

Obviously one of the top items on any decent Oahu bucket list is to attend a luau. But which one? There are plenty to choose from, and they’re all unique in their own ways.

Some are touristy garbage, while others are more authentic and overall enjoyable. Some are huge, and others are more intimate. I’ve personally been to two of Oahu’s luaus and they were incredibly different from one another—the luau at the Polynesian Cultural Center (twice actually) and most recently the luau at Experience Nutridge.

Polynesian Cultural Center

The one at the Polynesian Cultural Center is one of the most popular, and biggest, luaus on Oahu. This is actually an all-day experience that’s well worth it.

The pros: You’ll get to explore the entire cultural village to learn about many different Polynesian cultures, you’ll have a fantastic luau dinner, and you’ll get to see an incredible show.

The cons: This luau is alcohol-free ( boooo ) and it definitely feels more like an entertainment venture than anything else. You’ll be one of about 700 people at your luau.

That being said, I’ve enjoyed both of my luau experiences here . The PCC is anything but intimate, but the time spent in the Polynesian villages is super fun, the food is great, and the show is incredible. I highly recommend a visit here.

Experience Nutridge

On my latest trip to Oahu in August 2023, I went in the opposite direction and booked a spot at the Experience Nutridge luau .

The pros: This luau is much more intimate at only about 75 people max and you really do feel welcome and appreciated here. (I attended this luau solo on my birthday and, between the amazing staff and the other awesome luau-goers, I never felt like I was here alone.)

The venue is incredible (on top of a mountain in Honolulu on a beautiful estate), the staff is so friendly and fun and talented, and there’s booze (they even give you a free welcome drink).

The cons: I wasn’t the biggest fan of the food, but that’s not really why I booked anyway.

Both of these luaus are unforgettable and worthwhile experiences but vastly different from each other. I’m sitting here trying to decide which one I would recommend if you had to choose, and I honestly can’t pick. Let’s just say, you won’t be disappoint with either of them!

Other luaus for your Oahu bucket list

Beyond these two, there are several more luaus on Oahu. I can’t give you any firsthand advice on these, but some other popular options include:

Paradise Cove luau , close to the Ko’Olina resort area
Chief’s Luau in Kapolei
Toa Luau at Waimea Valley
Germaine’s luau , also in Kapolei
Ka Moana luau is included in the Oahu GoCity pass
And the Ka Wa’a luau at Disney Aulani Resort (geared towards children and families, obviously)

20. Visit the Polynesian Cultural Center

OK, even if you decide to attend a different luau from this one, you should still consider a visit to the Polynesian Cultural Center . You can still visit the PCC without attending the luau.

You can visit the six historically-accurate cultural villages (across 42 acres) to learn about different Polynesian cultures. You’ll get to experience all the cultural presentations and activities. You’ll learn how to hula in Hawaii, race a canoe and throw spears in Tonga, learn about warriors in Fiji, and watch a guy climb a 40-foot palm tree in his bare feet in Samoa. (And so much more!)

You can also attend the incredible nighttime show full of beautiful dancing and fire shows. And you can shop in the marketplace. All without having to attend the luau.

The Polynesian Cultural Center is included in the Oahu GoCity pass .

21. Explore Jurassic Park

It took me three visits to Hawaii to finally check this off my Oahu bucket list and it was so worth the wait. Kualoa Ranch is where they’ve filmed (and continue to film) tons of well-known movies and TV Shows. And they offer a ton of different tours so you can visit your favorite filming locations.

For me, that meant spending the day at both Jurassic Park and Jurassic World . I booked this Jurassic Adventure Tour that takes you to tons of filming locations from both franchises. You get to learn all kinds of behind-the-scenes info about the movies and even walk around in some of the sets. If you’re any bit of a dino-geek like me, you’ll love this tour!

This is also where they filmed things like Lost , Hawaii Five-0 , Jumanji (the newer ones), 50 First Dates , and a bunch of action films I’ve never seen. And you get to see locations and props from all of them.

Book the same Jurassic Adventure Tour that I did here. Get my hilarious shirt here . (A couple of Kualoa Ranch tours are also included in the Oahu GoCity pass , just not this one.)

22. Stroll the Aloha Stadium Swap Meet & Flea Market

One of the oldest activities on your Oahu bucket list is going to be the Aloha Stadium Swap Meet . This massive collection of vendors has been happening every week since 1979.

You can find everything here —souvenirs, home décor, clothing and jewelry, local artists, food trucks and vendors, and just about anything else you can think of.

The Aloha Stadium swap meet takes place every Wednesday and Saturday from 8am – 3pm, and every Sunday from 6:30am – 3pm. It’s located all around the perimeter of Aloha Stadium. It’s free to enter but costs $2 (cash) to park. Once inside, some of the vendors will accept credit card but definitely be prepared with cash.

And even though they’ll soon be tearing down Aloha Stadium to build the new Aloha Stadium Entertainment District, the weekly swap meet isn’t going anywhere.

23. Visit the Dole Plantation

The Dole Plantation is “Hawaii’s complete pineapple experience” and it really has something for everyone. You can ride a cheesy pineapple train around the property to learn about growing pineapples, get lost in the “world’s largest maze” in the pineapple garden, and eat so many delicious pineapple things .

Honestly, you’ve never had pineapple this good in your life. I’ve been here twice, and the last time I literally just left with a pineapple as a souvenir. It didn’t survive the day.

The Dole Plantation is included in the Oahu GoCity pass .

24. Walk the Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail

The Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail is one of the easier “hikes” on this Oahu bucket list. It still climbs a little in elevation, but the entire path is paved road which makes it considerably easier (and more accessible) than most. (Check out my full guide in the link above.)

The trail winds along the coastline where, in the winter months, you can see just loads of humpback whales. At the end of the trail is the Makapu’u Lighthouse and an observation platform overlooking the ocean.

Parking at the trailhead is free and you can park along the road if the lot is full. Pro tip: Do this hike at sunrise like I did. Pure magic.

The Makapu’u Lighthouse hike (with transportation) is included in the Oahu GoCity pass .

25. Explore historic Haleiwa and the North Shore

Exploring the historic surf town of Haleiwa on the North Shore is such a fun way to spend a day of your Oahu bucket list. Leave Honolulu behind and feel like you’re really in a small surf-obsessed village on a remote island .

This super laid-back town is full of cool shops, chill restaurants, art galleries, and beautiful beaches. Parking your car and simply walking the streets with no agenda is the way to go here. But if you do want some kind of plan, you should also…

A day trip to the North Shore is included in the Oahu GoCity pass .

26. Get lunch from a North Shore shrimp truck

Shrimp trucks are super popular on the North Shore and the garlic butter shrimp is where it’s at . Besides being delicious, this is such a fast, easy, and surprisingly affordable way to grab lunch here.

On the recommendation of my friend Moani (whose Hawaii-focused food and travel blog you should definitely follow while you’re here), I went with Jenny’s Shrimp Truck and, yall. YALL. It was so freaking good. I mean, shrimply heavenly.

Other popular North Shore shrimp trucks include:

Giovanni’s – the original NS shrimp truck that started the trend
Fumi’s Kahuku

27. Eat shave ice

OK so yes maybe this Oahu bucket list is just all about eating, so sue me. But after you eat your garlic shrimp you’re going to need dessert. And yes, ice counts as dessert.

Hawaiian shave ice is simple, but perfect. It’s literally just thinly shaved ice covered in flavorful syrups and other toppings like ice cream and fruit. The best part is that it can be whatever you want it to be.

There are shave ice stands all over Oahu , but some are more well-known than others. (Pro tip: If they spell it “shaved ice,” stay away.) Be sure to stop by:

Matsumoto’s on the North Shore – the most famous of them all. Be prepared to wait in a very long line.
Uncle Clay’s House of Pure Aloha in Honolulu – I went here after seeing this place on the show Somebody Feed Phil . I’m not really a fan of the show, but I am a fan of being able to add adzuki beans to my ice. (Something I ate a lot of during my summer in Taiwan and that you almost never see here in the U.S.) All in all, this place is fantastic.

28. Pick up some mac nuts

The North Shore Macadamia Nut Company is a small family-run operation that’s actually the only working macadamia nut farm on Oahu . Stop by their shop where you can pick up any and all kinds of macadamia nuts, products, and gifts.

29. Take a surfing lesson

Hawaii and surfing go together like, well, garlic butter and shrimp. And even if you’ve never so much as laid eyes on a surfboard before (ahem, guilty), I highly recommend adding a surfing lesson to your Oahu bucket list.

Really, I had never so much as touched a surfboard before when I decided to add this private surfing lesson to my itinerary. And I’ll be honest—I was super nervous before my lesson. I’m a good swimmer, pretty fit, maybe a little too adventurous for my own good, but still nervous. My expectations were also super low. I expected to have a fun time trying to surf, but never in a million years did I think I would actually ride a wave.

And yall. YALL. I RODE SO MANY WAVES. Seriously, it was incredible. This was undoubtedly the highlight of my August 2023 Oahu trip. Yes, I face-planted plenty of times. I walked away with cuts, contusions, a fat lip, and what I’m pretty sure were a couple of bruised ribs… but it was SO FUN! (Seriously though, get your tetanus shot first , lol.)

Waikiki Beach or North Shore?

You can take lessons on Waikiki Beach (considered to be the birthplace of surfing) or the North Shore (definitely the world headquarters of surfing). I opted for the iconic North Shore and loved every minute of it. The waves were the perfect size, the beach was beautiful, and there were curious sea turtles swimming all around us!

Long story short, it was the perfect ocean adventure for my Oahu bucket list. I highly recommend trying this out for yourself if you’re not afraid of the ocean and a few bruises. These lessons include all the equipment you’ll need, expert instructors, and no experience is required. (Some even have the option of adding a photographer.) Check out these options:

Small-group surfing lesson (2 hours, many times available) on either Waikiki or the North Shore
Private group lesson for just your party (how fun would that be!) on Waikiki or the North Shore
This one-on-one private lesson I took on the North Shore. (It cost barely more than the group lesson.) They offer private lessons on Waikiki as well.

A private group surfing lesson and Waikiki surfboard rental are both included in the Oahu GoCity pass .

30. Swim in the waterfall at Waimea Valley

Since you’re already on the North Shore in your bathing suit, next up on the Oahu bucket list is a visit to Waimea Valley . This hidden piece of Oahu includes a beautiful walk through the botanical gardens which ends at Waimea Falls, a cool waterfall that you can swim in (and under).

The Waimea Valley botanical gardens are included in the Oahu GoCity pass .

31. Eat at the world’s cheapest Michelin star restaurant

Yes! Somehow here in the country’s most expensive state you’ll find the world’s least expensive Michelin-starred restaurant: Tim Ho Wan . “Dim sum perfection” they call themselves, and you can be the judge here at the Royal Hawaiian Center in Honolulu.

Michelin star dining has gotten pretty much out of control at this point (in terms of both cost and ridiculous factor), but if you want to say you’ve done it, this is the best deal. Tim Ho Wan is open every day from 10am – 9pm.

32. Do the Lanikai Pillbox Hike

If you prefer to stay on land, here’s another great hike for your Oahu bucket list. The Lanikai Pillbox hike is fairly easy on the difficulty scale. (It can get slippery though, especially when it’s really dry.) It takes you up the ridge where you’ll pass a couple of WWII pillboxes.

The trail is lined with beautiful flowers and plants and you’ll be able to get some amazing views over the ocean and surrounding areas. Since it’s over on the east side of the island, this is another popular sunrise hike .

Pro tip: There’s no parking at the trailhead as it’s in a neighborhood, but you can park for free at nearby Kailua Beach Park and walk the 15-20 minutes to the trailhead. For everything else you need to know, read my super helpful guide to the Lanikai Pillbox trail .

33. Hit up the poke bar at Foodland

One of the best things I learned on my most recent visit to Oahu was that Foodland (the local grocery chain) has one hell of a kickass poke bar . The couple I met while waiting for my rental car told me, “It’s like a deli, but instead of sliced meat it’s twenty different kinds of poke.” They’re weren’t lying.

I made this my lunch on more than one occasion and I only wish I could try them all. If you want some delicious poke, tons of different options, and all for a super reasonable price, head to the nearest Foodland.

Pro tip: Get a Foodland member card to save lots of money on your poke. Or if you’re staying with a friend, just use their phone number. I’m sure they won’t mind. 🙂

34. Visit a museum

If you find you need a break from the sun (it happens), consider adding one (or all) of these museums to your Oahu bucket list:

The Bishop Museum – Hawaii’s “premier natural and cultural history museum.” You can learn all about Hawaiian history and culture, but also about the surrounding land and sea. (Included in the Oahu GoCity pass .)

Iolani Palace – This iconic building was the former residence of the rulers of the Kingdom of Hawaii. (King Kamehameha lived here.) You might also know it as Five-0 headquarters, just saying. And you can take a tour of it! (Included in the Oahu GoCity pass .)

U.S. Army Museum of Hawaii – If you want to learn about Pearl Harbor but in a much less-crowded location, hit up the Army Museum instead of the Pearl Harbor Visitor’s Center. Seriously, I found the exhibits here much easier to follow than those at PH. Plus, there’s air conditioning, and WWII tanks, and it’s free to visit, and they validate parking. Convinced yet?

35. Eat SPAM and eggs for breakfast

Speaking of WWII, I bring you: the wonder that is SPAM. SPAM became popular in Hawaii during the war and remains an iconic piece of Hawaiian culture . To honor that history and to experience something pretty unique to this destination, order yourself some SPAM and eggs for breakfast at your local diner or café.

I actually like SPAM, but the runny egg yolk is definitely needed to tone down its saltiness. On my most recent trip, I had SPAM and over-easy eggs with hash browns at Cinnamon’s Restaurant in Kailua. Highly recommend!

Breakfast not your jam? Then try musubi, also known as SPAM sushi. Big fan here.

36. Catch a sunrise on the beach

I don’t know why sunsets get all the glory; in Hawaii, the sunrises are just as epic ! While in Hawaii working on my Oahu bucket list, the friends I was staying with suggested I catch the sunrise at the local beach.

So I did… and then I caught the sunrise on the beach every day of my trip. I even kept myself on Boston time the whole time I was here so I wouldn’t miss one.

I simply can’t tell you how serene it is watching the sun come up while sitting on the beach, nearly alone, with the cool breeze and the swaying palms. I’m going to lull myself to sleep just writing about it.

Show up a little before sunrise, find a spot in the sand, and just watch the day begin. Chances are there’s already surfers in the water, a handful of joggers and their cute pups, an outrigger team charging into the waves, a rooster or two waking up the rest of the neighborhood, and other visitors like you out there.

37. Hike the Koko Head Railway

Admittedly, this is one of the crazier things on the Oahu bucket list, but one of the most unique and worthwhile! If you’re in decent physical health and with a little bit of a crazy streak, that is.

The Koko Head Railway was built during WWII to transport materials up and down the crater to the military defense installations at the top. When the war ended, the railway and bunkers were simply abandoned.

Today, you can hike to the top of Koko Head Crater via what’s known as the “Koko Head Stairs.” These “stairs” are actually the railroad ties from the former railway. At the top, you get amazing 360° views and some desperately-needed air.

There are 1,050 railroad ties (spaced about 3 feet apart, mind you), and the entire hike up and back down takes about 2 hours. But the important thing to know here is that the path is pretty much vertical. Your legs won’t know what hit them. This hike is actually pretty brutal, but awesome.

If you’re looking to add a little bit (lol) of exercise to your Oahu bucket list, this is the #1 activity for you.

Read my full Koko Head Crater hike survival guide here! It’s got everything you could possibly want to know about this crazy hike.

Boston bucket list and the best things to do in Boston: go whale watching

38. Go whale watching

And even if you left your hiking legs back home, hopefully you at least brought your sea legs to your Oahu bucket list. If you’ll be visiting Hawaii between the months of December and April, be sure to book a whale watching excursion while you’re here.

Living in Boston , I go whale watching pretty regularly and it’s always a beautiful experience . Seeing some of the world’s largest creatures up close in the wild is simply jaw-dropping.

Off the coast of Oahu, the most common whales you can see are humpback whales, but you can also see right whales, beluga whales, and even sperm whales. During my last Hawaii snorkeling trip, I actually found myself on the edge of a massive pod of pilot whales (in August).

If you’re interested in adding whale watching to your Oahu bucket list, check out these popular excursion options :

Waikiki Beach Eco-Friendly Whale Watching Cruise – Spot migrating humpbacks from a double-deck luxury catamaran along the beautiful Waikiki coastline. (That means you also get fantastic views of Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head!)
Eco-Friendly West Coast Whale Watching Cruise – Sail along the stunning Ko’Olina coastline, snacks and free hotel pickup included.
Early Bird Whale Watching Cruise from Waikiki – No-frills, two-hour whale watching trip out of Waikiki.
Whale Watching & Late Breakfast Cruise in Honolulu – Have your breakfast on board while you sail to where the humpbacks hang out.
See more whale watching options here on Viator and here on Get Your Guide .

39. Visit a local craft brewery

Visiting local craft breweries is something I try to do on every trip, so this Oahu bucket list is no exception. And what better place to sit back and enjoy some good beer in the sunshine? I mean really.

Oahu is full of great craft breweries , so depending on where you are, you’re sure to find something delicious. Here are some places to start:

Kona Brewing Co. in Honolulu – Hawaii’s most famous craft brewery has a taproom here in Oahu. In fact, it’s near the base of the Koko Head stairs. (I.e., the best way to end that grueling hike.)
Lanikai Brewing in Kailua for great local beers and a fabulous brick oven pizza truck on Fridays.
Honolulu Beer Works whose coconut hefeweizen is my new favorite beer!
Maui Brewing Co. in Waikiki for a taste of Maui here on Oahu.
Hana Koa Brewing in Honolulu for the IPA lovers
Inu Island Ales in Kaneohe for something fruity and unique

A beer bike tour around kaka’ako (Honolulu’s vibrant arts and warehouse district) is included in the Oahu GoCity pass .

40. Go kayaking

Kayaking is one of my favorite ways to get out on the water and Oahu offers so many cool kayaking experiences. You can likely rent a kayak from whatever hotel/resort/beach you’re staying at and simply paddle around the (albeit gorgeous) ocean.

Or you can opt for something different and paddle over to some of the island’s coolest kayaking spots. Like…

Kailua Bay and the Mokulua Islands (also known as the Mokes) – includes lunch!
The famous islet of Mokolii , also known as the “Chinaman’s Hat”
Kaneohe Bay and He’eia State Park to see sea turtles and dolphins

A 3-hour Kayak or standup paddleboard rental is included in the Oahu GoCity pass .

You can also trade in a regular ol’ kayak for something really cool , like:

this glass bottom kayaking excursion with guaranteed sea turtle sightings
or this nighttime light-up kayak experience
See many more kayaking adventures here on Viator and here on Get Your Guide .

Keep in mind that most excursions offer either guided or self-guided options. Guided is great to learn about the ocean and wildlife. Self-guided is great when you just want to explore on your own. Many also offer stand-up paddleboard options as well.

41. Visit Punchbowl Cemetery

Honolulu, Hawaii is the site of the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific (commonly known as the Punchbowl Cemetery due to its location inside the Punchbowl Crater).

This huge and beautiful cemetery that overlooks Honolulu opened in 1949 and contains the graves of those who died serving in the United States military. This includes a number of Pearl Harbor victims and WWII veterans, as well as many other notable figures.

Besides the famous burials, there’s a great memorial atop the hill with huge mosaics that detail the events of WWII’s Pacific Theater.

Check out my full guide to the unforgettable WWII sites on Oahu here.

42. Explore Ho’omaluhia Botanical Gardens

You’ll know why the Ho’omaluhia Botanical Gardens are on the Oahu bucket list as soon as you drive in. This beautiful site is located in a lush valley, surrounded by the sky-high Ko’olau mountains. The park is free to visit.

There are nature trails lined with all kinds of interesting tropical trees and flowers, a large lake, lots of wildlife (ahem, mongooses), and tons of green space. But really, just driving from one end of the gardens to the other is the real treat . (Just don’t stop on the road – like the bajillions of signs say but so many jerks completely ignore.)

43. Take an Oahu food tour

I’m a huge fan of Hawaiian food, are you? If so, you should definitely consider adding a local food tour to your Oahu bucket list. Food tours are the perfect way to sample tons of local foods, learn about the culture, and, well, get fed.

Check out some of these popular Oahu food tours for your next trip:

Hawaii Food Tour – Off the Beaten Path – This 3-hour, small group walking tour “provides insights into Hawaii’s multicultural history and culinary heritage while taking you to some excellent eateries that lie off the tourist trail.” 5 stars. I’m sold.
Da Local’s Food Tour – Another 5-star, 3-hour tour that includes all the best stuff like poke, garlic shrimp, and shave ice.
Oahu Food Tour by Bike – If you’re looking to burn the calories while you consume them, this super popular tour is for you.

44. Go on a submarine scooter adventure

I had no idea what this was either when I asked my Instagram followers what their favorite thing to do in Oahu was. SO MANY people replied that I should go on a submarine scooter adventure . And looking at how many 5-star reviews this activity has, apparently they were right!

You’ll have to look at the pictures in that link above to understand, but it really is like riding a scooter at the bottom of the ocean. You get to be up close with all the fish and sea turtles, but in a totally gnarly way! Seriously, everyone told me it was so much fun .

45. Spend some chill time on the beach

And because this is still Hawaii and the beaches here are some of the dreamiest in the world, you should definitely feel free to add some relaxation to your Oahu bucket list too. (But still bring your snorkel gear!)

I’m very much a doer when I travel, but I did carve out some chill beach time after one of my sunrise hikes. And it was absolutely a highlight. The waters here are crystal clear and full of colorful fish and sea turtles galore! The water is warm, the scenery is amazing, and many of the local beaches are beautifully uncrowded.

Visit Waikiki Beach because it’s famous, but definitely spend some time on a lesser-known local beach too for a true Hawaiian experience.

I hope I’ve helped plump up your Oahu bucket list and/or introduced you to some new things to do here. Definitely come back and let me know which were your favorites. And if you’d like this bucket list in printable, checklist form, you can get it below for free! Aloha!

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About Ashley Smith

Ashley is a historian and Oktoberfest expert & tour guide. She has traveled to 39 countries and specializes in quick trips throughout Europe and the Americas that prioritize hiking adventures, museums of all kinds, cultural experiences, and jam-packed itineraries. She hails from Memphis, TN and currently lives in Boston with her husband and two feline sidekicks.

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Hawaii (HI) » 15 Best Oahu Tours

15 Best Oahu Tours

Known as ‘the Gathering Place,’ Oahu is the third largest of all the Hawaiian Islands and is home to nearly a million people.

It consists of nearly 600 square miles of mountains, forests, and some of the most amazing beaches and geologic features in the archipelago.

The most historically important and visited site is the USS Arizona Memorial in Pearl Harbor, which includes numerous attractions and museums highlighting the day in 1941 that made Pearl Harbor a household name overnight.

Whether you’re interested in the island’s cultural heritage, history, or natural beauty, finding amazing things to do on your trip won’t be a problem.

1. Pearl Harbor All Inclusive Full-Day Tour with Tickets

Small group tours are great ways to get to know your fellow travelers while getting a personal and intimate introduction to the sites you’re seeing.

This full-day tour begins with an orientation that’ll bring you up to speed on the historic events leading up to the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor.

After lunch, you’ll visit the USS Missouri – the historic battleship on which the Japanese signed an unconditional surrender years after the initial attack, signifying an end to the war in the Pacific.

All transportation is included. On the way back, you’ll take a tour of historic Honolulu and see some of the city’s most historically important sites.

2. Diamond Head Crater Morning Adventure Hike

A little morning exercise is a great way to set the pace for a fun-filled day in Oahu.

This hike to Diamond Head crater lasts less than an hour. You’ll climb nearly 800 feet to the crater’s peak and take in the amazing views of the magnificent Pacific Ocean and Waikiki.

Your guide will give you a crash course in the area’s history and geology before you head out. On your way toward the summit, you’ll stop at many of the vista points along the way, and even pass through a dark tunnel that’s nearly 200-feet long, after which you’ll see the crater in its entirety.

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3. Small Group Tour on Oahu’s North Shore

This six-hour guided small-group tour will include visits to many of the North Shore’s most beautiful and historically significant sites, including a Dole pineapple plantation.

This jam-packed tour will give you access to nearly 30 places that are visitor hotspots and is a great way to get a comprehensive glimpse into the area.

Transportation is included; you’ll be picked up at 9:00 AM from your hotel in Waikiki.

Though the cost of lunch isn’t included, you’ll stop at the North Shore’s famous food-truck area and will have your pick of lots of local specialties, all in view of scenic Waimea Bay and Waikiki.

4. Pearl Harbor & USS Arizona Memorial Tour with Pick-Up

On December 7, 1941, Pearl Harbor’s place in history was etched in stone as the day that Japan attacked America, sparking the country’s declaration of war on the Japanese Empire.

This guided tour includes a harbor tour aboard a renovated navy boat, from which you’ll see the famous USS Arizona Memorial and visit a few of the most memorable museums to view footage of the attacks and the devastation they caused.

This tour is all-inclusive and includes door-to-door transportation. It ends with a drive through downtown Honolulu, where you’ll see Iolani Palace before heading back to Waikiki.

5. North Shore Zip Line Adventure and Farm Tour of Oahu

If a day spent tearing it up on ATVs and hanging from cables hundreds of feet over mountains and forests sounds like a great way to spend some vacation time, then this North Shore tour is for you.

There’s no better way to get a bird’s eye view than by zip-lining; with eight different lines, you’ll get unobstructed views of the area’s famous beaches, lush jungles, and majestic mountains.

Don’t worry if you’re not experienced, you’ll get all the training and gear necessary to have a safe and fun-filled day.

You’ll also tour a working farm that produces an amazingly diverse amount of produce annually too.

6. 2-Hour North Shore Shark Dive

If you’re an adrenaline junkie who’s always looking for new ways to push the boundaries, this opportunity to swim with sharks is one that really shouldn’t be passed up.

Though it sounds dangerous, you’ll be swimming with sharks that are pretty big, but really not so by shark standards.

You’ll get all the training and gear needed to have the time of your life and get out of the water in one piece.

This tour doesn’t include food, drinks or transportation; you’re welcome to bring your own mask and snorkel if you have them.

You may see dolphins and sea turtles too.

7. Waikiki Atlantis Submarine Tour

There was a time when small submarines were the exclusive realm of navy men, treasure hunters and secret agents like Britain’s James Bond.

These days, however, even common tourists have access to amazing submersible watercraft – like the 50-passenger one in which you’ll glide through the depths on this amazing tour.

You’ll dive below 100 feet and see some amazing sea life up close as you visit wrecked vessels and even some downed aircraft.

The submarine is safe, comfortable and air-conditioned. This truly once-in-a-lifetime tour is one of the things to do in Oahu that really shouldn’t be missed.

8. Official USS Arizona Memorial Narrated Audio Tour

The USS Arizona Memorial draws more tourists every year than any other site in Hawaii.

It’s the location from which world-changing events were set in motion that led to a half-decade of war that shaped world history.

This 2 ½-hour audio tour includes visits to two of the area’s most comprehensive museums. It is one of the few tours that’s officially sanctioned by the National Park Service that oversees the Pearl Harbor sites and museums.

Your virtual, audio tour guide will give you amazing facts and stories that’ll provide you with a remarkably personal insight into the momentous nature of that day in 1941.

9. Morning Whale Watching Waikiki

It’s not surprising that the Hawaiian Islands are home to some of the best whale watching opportunities to be found anywhere in the world.

This morning whale watching tour from Waikiki has an amazingly high success rate, but if by some stroke of bad luck, the finicky whales don’t show up, you’ll get a free voucher to take the tour again.

The relatively shallow waters around Waikiki are like magnets to humpback whales, who come annually to breed, give birth and nurture their young in relative safety.

The best months to experience this natural wonder are from December until May.

10. USS Arizona Memorial and Aviation Museum Small-Group Tour

The USS Arizona Memorial and the Aviation Museum are probably the two most important places to visit on your trip to Pearl Harbor.

This small-group tour is for those who want all the pesky details to be handled by professionals, so they’re free to relax and take in all the magnificent sights and history the area has to offer.

The tour includes skip-the-line tickets and a pre-tour orientation that’ll get things off on the right foot before you dive into your audio-tour of one of the gems of American history.

Everything is included except tips, food, and drinks, so bring a few dollars with you.

11. Waikiki Sunset Helicopter Tour from Oahu

Waikiki Sunset Doors On Or Doors Off Helicopter Tour

There are few places in the world where the sunsets are as majestic as they are in Oahu.

During your trip, you should try to see them from as many vantage points as possible; one of the most unique ways to do this is by helicopter.

This 20-minute tour will take you soaring over Diamond Head and the darkening ocean, as well as give you beautiful vistas of Waikiki and the North Shore.

The tour will end with a flight over Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial, as evening turns into magical twilight.

This is a great tour to take before a nice dinner or a night on the town.

12. Oahu Boat Cruise to Diamond Head

Diamond Head is one of the Oahu coast’s most iconic and recognizable features and there’s no better way to take in its splendor than by a cruise.

You’ll set sail on a catamaran that’s nearly 60 feet long, from which you’ll take in the amazing beaches, dramatic cliffs and towering crater rim of Diamond Head – all while gently rocking on the boat’s deck.

Chances are you’ll see some amazing sea life too, like dolphins and sea turtles, both of which are inhabitants of the clear Pacific water.

Non-alcoholic drinks and snacks are provided free of charge, but transportation isn’t, so you’ll need to get to the launch site on your own.

13. Diamond Head Luau, Farm Experience, and Dinner Show

Diamond Head Luau Farm Experience With Dinner & Show

If you’re a frugal traveler who likes to make the most efficient use of valuable vacation time and get the most bang for your hard-earned buck, this fun-filled tour is for you.

You’ll get a first-hand look at a working farm and experience a traditional Polynesian-style dance and music performance – including the fire and knife dance that’ll raise your heartbeat.

As if that weren’t enough, there are plenty of hands-on activities if you’d like to try hula dancing, making a lei or playing the ukulele.

If you’d rather relax with a cool drink and just observe, that’s okay too.

This tour fills up quickly, so book in advance to avoid missing out.

14. Sunrise Photo Tour of Oahu with Professional Guide

Whether you’re an experienced photographer or just an amateur or aspiring shutterbug, this sunrise tour with a professional photographer-guide is a great way to spend a few morning hours.

It shouldn’t be a surprise that the sunrises are majestic here, and what better way to capture one then with a professional taking you to the right place and giving you pointers to make your photographed memory the best it can be.

With your input, your guide will choose the location that’s best for you and the conditions. After the sun has risen, you’ll visit some other amazing spots from which world-famous shots have been taken in years past.

15. Diamond Head Hiking Tour with Official Audio Guide

Though last on the list, this Diamond Head hiking tour with an audio guide is certainly not least by any standards.

This tour starts at the Diamond Head Visitor Center and is an official activity of the State of Hawaii’s Historic Pacific Parks, which manages many tourist sites.

You’ll get plenty of exercise and are free to go at your own pace. You’ll also get the benefit of an excellent audio narration that’ll fill you in on the area’s geological, cultural and historical past.

The narration is available in multiple languages, but you’ll need to pay the park entrance fee so make sure you take that into consideration.

15 Best Oahu Tours:

Pearl Harbor All Inclusive Full-Day Tour with Tickets
Diamond Head Crater Morning Adventure Hike
Small Group Tour on Oahu’s North Shore
Pearl Harbor & USS Arizona Memorial Tour with Pick-Up
North Shore Zip Line Adventure and Farm Tour of Oahu
2-Hour North Shore Shark Dive
Waikiki Atlantis Submarine Tour
Official USS Arizona Memorial Narrated Audio Tour
Morning Whale Watching Waikiki
USS Arizona Memorial and Aviation Museum Small-Group Tour
Waikiki Sunset Helicopter Tour from Oahu
Oahu Boat Cruise to Diamond Head
Diamond Head Luau, Farm Experience, and Dinner Show
Sunrise Photo Tour of Oahu with Professional Guide
Diamond Head Hiking Tour with Official Audio Guide

80 Awesome Things To Do On Oahu, Hawaii: The Bucketlist

Jackson Groves

Posted on Last updated: October 8, 2023

Categories HAWAII

80 Awesome Things To Do On Oahu, Hawaii: The Bucketlist

What to do on Oahu ? Any idea where to start? I have created the Ultimate Oahu bucket list for inspiration about the best things to do on Oahu, Hawaii. This incredible island has great beaches, hikes, waterfalls, snorkeling spots, and restaurants to try. I’ve got you covered with them all so see how many items on this Oahu bucket list you can tick off!

I’ve added the link to some of the top-rated tours in each section so you can book your activities in advance for your vacation to Oahu, Hawaii.

an aerial view of a small island in the middle of the ocean.

THE FOUR MOST POPULAR OAHU TOURS

Doors-Off Oahu Helicopter Flight Tour : My number one recommendation is to do a heli-flight (doors off) and be blown away when you see Oahu from the air.
North Shore Shark Cage Tour : The biggest adrenaline rush you can have in Hawaii is beneath the surface with sharks!
Eco-Friendly Dolphin and Snorkel Tour : One of the best experiences I had on Oahu was swimming with the beautiful spinner dolphins on this exact tour.
Turtle Canyon Snorkel Cruise by Catamaran : The number 1 MOST POPULAR snorkel tour on Oahu. GUARANTEED Turtles!

THE 80 BEST THINGS TO DO ON OAHU, HAWAII

Turtle canyon snorkel cruise by catamaran.

The best snorkeling tour on Oahu is the Turtle Canyon Snorkel Cruise by Catamaran . Not only do you get the chance to swim with these friendly giants and tons of tropical fish, but you’ll also get a catamaran cruise from Waikiki. You are picked up from your Waikiki hotel and taken to the harbor for a short boat ride to a few secret snorkeling spots. Lunch is included and the food is really good too, you’ll love the kalua pork! Something that people love about this tour is the staff! They really make sure you are entertained and you will have the best trip to Oahu.

B ook your tour: Turtle Canyon Snorkel Cruise by Catamaran

BEST RENTAL CAR COMPANY IN HAWAII

When you book your Hawaii Rental Car online, I personally recommend and always use Discover Cars . They search for both local and international companies, so you get the best deal!

Oahu scenic helicopter flight

I think a scenic helicopter flight is my favorite activity to do on Oahu by far! A helicopter tour over this amazing island will be the number one memory you take home with you from your vacation. The circle island Helicopter tour will have you fly above all of the famous locations on Oahu, it’s simply a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Book your tour: Oahu Full-Circle Island 60 minute Helicopter Tour

Book your tour: 25-minute Waikiki Helicopter Tour

North Shore Shark Cage Dive Adventure

The North Shore Shark Cage Dive Tour is the most easily the most epic and most unique activity on Oahu. The tour takes you just a few miles offshore where you will put on a snorkel and get inside a cage. For 20 minutes under the water, you’ll be surrounded by around a dozen sharks or even more. Pickup and drop-off service and equipment are included. You don’t need to be a good swimmer as you just hold on inside the cage. This was one of my all-time favorite things to do on Oahu.

Book your tour: North Shore Shark Cage Dive Tour

TOP 3 PLACES TO STAY ON OAHU

a couple of people sitting in a swimming pool.

Ultimate Luxury: Lotus Honolulu – Diamond Head View, Great Waikiki Location
My Favorite: Aston Waikiki Beach – Best value in Waikiki & Great location
Value Hotel Waikiki: Surfjack Hotel is easily the best value (luxury) hotel in Waikiki

Afternoon Glass Bottom Boat Tour in Waikiki (Top Seller)

All aboard the Haleiwa Queen, enjoy the clear view of the Pacific Ocean floor as you cruise over live tropical reefs and one of Hawaii’s shipwrecks. This is by far the cheapest boat tour on Oahu but also one of the most interesting. The glass-bottom floor of the boat allows you to see sea life as it swims by and also gets a great view of one of the many shipwrecks on the coast of Oahu. A great afternoon adventure for the whole family and a very unique experience.

Book your tour: Afternoon Glass Bottom Boat Tour in Waikiki

Pearl Harbor & USS Arizona Memorial & City Tour

This is easily one of THE MOST POPULAR tours on Oahu. This 5-hour historic tour is a combination tour in which you will be guided through Pearl Harbor’s comprehensive history –see the sunken USS Arizona, get a chance to visit the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific at Punchbowl, and stop by the landmarks of Honolulu metropolitan area. Everyone hates waiting in a long queue but on this tour, you’ll be able to skip lines for a hassle-free excursion. If there is something you are curious about, there’s a live tour guide so feel free to ask all you want!

Book your tour: Pearl Harbor, Arizona Memorial, & Punchbowl National Cemetery

Eco-Friendly Dolphin and Snorkel Half-Day Cruise

Set sail along the turquoise waters of Hawaii’s coast heading towards Ko Olina coast. Keep your eyes peeled for the playful Spinner Dolphins who live in these waters. During the snorkeling session, jump in for a snorkel adventure of a lifetime! I did this tour with my family when they came for vacation and it was an incredible experience you’ll never forget.

Book your tour: Eco-Friendly Dolphin and Snorkel Half-Day Cruise

Majestic Full Day Circle Island Tour

Join a full-day tour and discover all of Oahu’s best locations. The morning sun slowly warms the sandy beaches of Waikiki as your guide takes you on a journey through the history of the island. History comes alive before your eyes as you weave your way up the Koʻolau Mountains to the Nuʻuanu Pali Lookout where King Kamehameha I battled to unite the Hawaiian Islands.

Cruise along 7 miles of world-famous surfing beaches on Oahu’s north shore and sample the local flavors along the way. Waimea Valley and its waterfalls await you, discover this beautiful place steeped with history, spirituality and island traditions. Your guide will take you through the botanical gardens of this vast and tranquil setting.

Around the corner is the historic Dole Plantation surrounded by rows of pineapples and fields of sugarcane. Learn from your guide the rich plantation history and describe how this famously sweet plant became a symbol of Hawaii.

Book your tour: Majestic Full Day Circle Island Tour (Best-selling tour)

Watch the sunrise from Lanikai Pillbox hike

Lanikai is by far one of the prettiest areas on Oahu, laden with spectacular bechside homes, crystal clear water and the famous Mokoluas also known as “mokes” (two small islands) out in the ocean. Only a few blocks back from Lanikai Beach is the beginning of the Lanikai Pillbox Trail (Kaiwa Ridge), known for being one of the easier trails on the island of Oahu . There is no better way to start your day than with a short sunrise hike overlooking the ocean and amazing scenery.

Oahu Atlantis Submarine Adventure

One of the most unique boat tours on Oahu is the Atlantis Submarine, a tour that takes you below the surface to see the beauty of the underwater world. I did this tour with my family and they loved it. The tour departs from the Hilton Hawaiian Village in Waikiki and takes you to a submarine dive spot. Atlantis Submarines offers a one-of-a-kind underwater experience giving guests a close-up view of an array of sea creatures, exotic coral reefs, and numerous sunken vessels without getting wet.

We saw sharks, turtles, plane wrecks, and shipwrecks. It’s like swimming in a giant aquarium, but staying dry the whole time! Descending to 100 feet underwater is an adventure in itself.

Book your tour: Atlantis Submarine Adventure

Waikiki Sunset Cocktail Cruise

Dying to take your loved one to a romantic cruise whilst in Oahu? Or do you just want to experience a fun and relaxing evening with absolutely no itinerary? Onboard a sailing Catamaran drinking tropical Hawaiian cocktails and relaxing while enjoying the legendary sunset and the magnificent Hawaiian coast.

This is perfect for travelers who just want to chill with sunsets and cocktails!

Book your tour: Waikiki Sunset Cocktail Catamaran Cruise

Hike up the Diamond Head Crater for epic views of Waikiki

This is the most popular hike on Oahu and probably the most popular thing to do on Oahu aside from visit Waikiki Beach. It takes about 30-minutes to reach the top of the trail to find old war bunkers. From here, you will have amazing views over Waikiki and the ocean. The entire Diamond Head Crater hike is quite scenic but it isn’t until you reach the top that you have stunning views in all directions.

This is truly one of the most epic viewpoints anywhere in the world and a must-do activity on Oahu. The entrance fee is just $5 but if you prefer to join a guided tour to show you the way and share stories and history with you, I can recommend this top-rated tour , which combines Diamond Head hike and the easy Manoa Falls hike in one day!

Book your tour: Diamond Head Crater Hike & Manoa Falls Combo

Oahu Whale Watching Excursion

See whales, guaranteed, or come again for free! Every December through April, thousands of Humpback whales migrate to the warm waters of Hawaii. Come along see these beautiful mammals at their best on our exciting eco-friendly whale watching excursion.

The 2-hour experience of seeing whales will for sure take your breath away. Definitely a must-do excursion on Oahu!

Book your tour: Oahu Whale Watching Excursion

Swimming with sharks (without a cage)

Have you ever thought about swimming with sharks? This tour company takes people out and lets them swim with sharks without a cage! It might seem extreme but it is very controlled and quite safe. For exmaple, they haven’t had any injuries or incidents in 20 years of operation. Sandbar sharks circle around you as you snorkel out in the open ocean. This is something your friends back home won’t believe and it is one of the unique activities in Oahu .

Book your tour: Two-hour shark dive on Oahu

Find the Crouching Lion

Looking out over Kahana Bay, the Crouching Lion Hike offers amazing views, steep drop-offs, and beautiful lush surroundings. It’s located on the Northeast side of Oahu and is usually much less populated than many of the other hikes on Oahu despite how beautiful it is.

Try for a personal record up Koko Crater Railway Trail

One of the most popular hikes on Oahu, Koko Head Stairs is a rela tively short hike but don’t be fooled. The unforgiving incline will have you gasping for breath by the time you reach the top. My personal best was 12:15 but I have seen people fly up much quicker. If you take a leisurely walk up you can expect to finish between 30 minutes and 1 hour.

The hike itself is free but it isn’t near Waikiki. There is a tour that includes transport, assistance, food, and someone to carry your water and guide you along the way. If you prefer to do the tour with a guide and includes hotel pick/up and drop-off from Waikiki it could be a good option.

Book your tour: Koko Head Trail Guided Adventure

Kayak to the Mokes

From Lanikai or Kailua Beach a kayak to the mokes will take about thirty minutes. A beautiful canoe or kayak paddle to the Mokulua is a great escape for the day to an isolated island. Around the back of the islands, you’ll find quite a few good cliff jumping spots and also the Queen’s bath, which is one of my favorite spots on Oahu. There is an option for a fully guided kayak tour , including a professional guide, safety gear, and lunch! I have linked the top-rated tour below.

Book your tour: Kayak Kailua Tour including Lunch

Hawaiian Luau Performance and Buffet Dinner

A traditional Hawaiian luau is a must-do cultural activity on Oahu. The beauty of this luau tour package is that you get to experience traditional performances and story-telling before enjoying a buffet luau. It’s one of the top-rated tours on Oahu and makes for a great date night or family night out and will give you an understanding of the history and traditions of the Hawaiian people. Enjoy the buffet meal, including fresh seafood, kalua pork, and tropical fruit Watch the sunset and enjoy entertainment from Hawaiian musicians, hula dancers, and fire twirlers.

Book your ticket: Ka Moana Luau with Dinner & Show

Snorkel at Hanauma Bay

Hanauma Bay is the most popular spot for tourists to spot a turtle or explore the underwater world of the Pacific Ocean. The coral here is amazing and it is a protected bay so it is perfect for a half-day snorkel adventure. If you are lucky you will even spot a turtle but you can be guaranteed to find hundreds of amazing fish and marine species. It is about a 30-minute drive from Waikiki.

Sunset Cocktail Cruise from Waikiki

A sunset cruise on a 53-foot catamaran takes you south toward Hawaii’s iconic Diamond Head. There isn’t a much better way to enjoy than sunset than aboard a yacht with a cocktail! Enjoy a slice of paradise, complete with cocktails. Aloha!

Book your cruise: Sunset Cocktail Cruise from Waikiki

Kaena Farm Zip Line on the North Shore (Longest on Oahu)

Feel the adrenaline rush while soaring from the top of Oahu’s longest ziplines on this guided tour. Your tour begins with a short ATV ride to the top of a mountain. Then enjoy spectacular panoramic ocean and mountain views of Oahu’s famous North Shore from long, high, and extra-quiet zip lines ranging from 500 to 2,400 feet. Along the way, encounter rappels, sky bridges, scenic boardwalks, and a couple of surprises for some fun activities that challenge in a safe and controlled way.

Soar through the North Shore’s jungles on a thrilling zipline tour.
Enjoy a series of ziplines, rappels, sky bridges, boardwalks, and more.
Ride an ATV to the top of the mountain and enjoy panoramic views of Oahu.

Click Here to book your tour of the North Shore Zipline Tour in advance (Often sells out weeks in advance)

Visit Manoa Falls

After Diamond Head Hike, Manoa Falls is the second most popular hike on Oahu. Only minutes from the busy streets of Waikiki, this jungle trail leads you to a large waterfall. Jurassic Park and Lost filmed scenes in this lush green area. The best way to experience Manoa Falls is with an experienced tour guide who can explain all of the local flora and fauna, most of which is unique to Oahu. You can book yourself onto a guided tour that includes pick/up and drop-off from your Waikiki hotel.

Book your tour: Manoa Falls Guided Tour (with hotel pick/up)

Scuba-dive to Sea Tiger Wreck

100 feet below the surface lies The Sea Tiger, which is a former Chinese trading vessel originally named Yun Fong Seong No. 303. The ship was confiscated in the 1990s for carrying more than 90 illegal immigrants to Hawaii. It was purchased by Voyager Submarines, cleaned up, and sunk in 1999.

Interested in learning how to scuba dive while on Oahu: Waikiki Discovery Scuba Diving for Beginners

Already certified to scuba dive and want to book a scuba tour to a wreck or a reef: Scuba diving full-day tour on Oahu

Hike Stairway to Heaven for sunrise

The Stairway to Heaven was one of my favorite things to do on Oahu . While it is illegal, the stairway is still frequented by a small number of people on most mornings. At the summit, there is an old satellite atop a small bunker. As the sun rises 20 or more people sit atop the bunker with views all the way to the beach and down into the valleys on either side. Another hike on Oahu worth waking doing for sunrise is the Lanikai Pillbox Hike . It is important to know that this hike is ‘illegal’ and off-limits. Many people still do the hike every day. There is a back-way up that is technically legal and all of the information is in the blog post I wrote in the link below.

Try Garlic Shrimp on North Shore

The North Shore of Oahu is famous for surf, beaches, and the chill vibes. But you can’t visit the North shore without trying some famous Garlic Shrimp. There are plenty of food trucks lining the coast all claiming to be the best and the original. I tried quite a few of them during my time on Oahu and of the more well-known trucks, I enjoyed Romy’s. While you are up there check out one of the best beaches on the North Shore .

Hike the Pali Notches

The Pali Notches are one of the most dangerous hikes on Oahu due to the strong winds that often frequent the trail, which has an unforgiving drop on both sides. You also need to complete a few basic rock climbs to complete the trail. At the end of the trail is the ‘chimney’ a vertical rock face you can climb with the assistance of a rope. This is an iconic photo spot on Oahu.

Jump off Waimea Bay rock

Waimea Bay is my favorite beach on Oahu. It has rock climbing, turtles, underwater tunnels and huge waves in the winter. However, it’s most popular feature is a giant rock resting half in the water half on the shore. It is easy to climb onto the rock and from there you can join the crowd of nervous jumpers who wait their turn to leap off the rock. It isn’t incredibly deep but usually, it is just deep enough. Jumping off the rock is one of the most iconic things to do on Oahu.

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Enjoy a delicious poke bowl

Poke Bowls became my favorite food on Oahu. Essentially a poke bowl is raw fish, most commonly Ahi and rice. However, you can get a bowl with octopus, squid or other types of seafood. A spicy sauce or seasoning covers the fish. Bowls range from $6 to $15 depending on where you buy them from.

Reach the top at the Pink Pillbox hike

In the mountains on the west side of Oahu is the Pink Pillbox Hike . Painted pink as a testimony to breast cancer victims and survivors, the abandoned military pillbox isn’t hard to spot. Five pillboxes in total line the ridge, which takes less than an hour to hike. This is one of the less popular things to do on Oahu but it was by far one of my favorite hikes on the island.

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Sunset Dinner Cruise with Live Hawaiian Entertainment

If world-class entertainment and food weren’t enough on the beautiful beaches of Oahu, then why not take to the waters with the Oahu Sunset Dinner Cruise. This cruise will let you see the beauty of the colorful sunset in Oahu with a view of the island at night as the artificial lights glow and cover the place.

While onboard, you will enjoy the delicious buffet and some chitchats with other passengers. What the passengers will love is the round trip transportation they arrange for each and every one.

Book your tour: Sunset Dinner Cruise with Live Hawaiian Entertainment

Hike the Kuliouou ridge trail

The Kuliouou Ridge Trail isn’t what you would expect on Oahu. A forest setting you would expect in the Pacific Northwest of the Mainland is a great spot to have an afternoon hike. The trail takes you through a steady incline surrounded by trees until eventually, you emerge to a beautiful view that stretches out. to the ocean on the east coast of Oahu.

Adventure on the Ka’au Crater Hike

My favorite waterfall hike on Oahu, Ka’au Crater Hike leads you up three waterfalls before you navigate a fine ridge on the edge of the crater to reach expansive views in all directions. The hike takes a few hours if you are quick and 5-6 hours if you are a slower hiker. It is relatively safe but I wouldn’t recommend this hike for people in good shape as there are moments where you need to use ropes to pull yourself up steep segments.

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Find Dead man’s catwalk (or where it used to be)

Despite what its name might suggest, the Dead Man’s Catwalk provided more amazing views than perils. The catwalk referred to the cement slab that some claim was a possible war-era installation or was previously used as a launching strip for hang gliders. The words “The Dead Man’s Catwalk” were constantly being spray painted on the 6-yard strip that led out to a steep drop-off down the face of cliffs. The cement platform might be gone but the epic view is still as amazing as ever. Heads up this trail is ‘illegal’ also although still heavily frequented daily.

Reach the summit of Wiliwilinui ridge trail

From Wiliwilinui Ridge you can make out Waikiki, a city of white buildings seemingly a world away from the ridges we are roaming. When you turn the other way at the top . of the trail you can see the turquoise water of the east coast and the panoramic views. You will feel like you are in the middle of the island and you just about are! This is a hike none of the other tourists in the hotel will even know exists. It’s one of the most unique things to do on Oahu and definitely off the beaten path.

Walk the trail to Hanauma Bay rock bridge

Hanauma Bay is the most popular snorkeling beach on Oahu with hundreds of tourists visiting each day. However, a beautiful hike winds around the cliffs above the bay leading towards the ocean’s edge. If you follow the path all the way to towards the ocean and venture down the cliffs you will find a small rock bridge. Be incredibly careful in this area as it has claimed the lives of strong swimmers in the past after they were swept off the rocks. One of the lesser known things to do on Oahu but definitely one to enjoy from a safe distance.

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Do the Peace hike on the North Shore

In the mountains overlooking the famous Pipeline beach and the North Shore of Oahu, the Peace Hike provides a great vantage point. After twenty minutes of hiking, you will find a small platform/pillbox that has a peace sign painted on it. Be sure to do the hike on a day with big swell so you can watch the huge waves roll in one after another from up in the mountains.

Visit Lulumahu falls

A cascading waterfall in the middle of the forest is a peaceful spot to enjoy the afternoon. The hike is right next to the Pali Highway and only takes about 30 minutes. You can swim in the pool below this beuautiful Oahu waterfall . Visiting a waterfall is a must-do activity on Oahu and Lulumahu is one of the most unique things to do outside of Waikiki.

Chil l at Cockroach cove

Cockroach Cove is right next to Halona Blowhole. Although tourists will come and go en masse in the carpark above the cove it is actually a great spot to chill out. Turtles often feed in the area and the rock formations and little caves make a great backdrop for an afternoon chill session. Sandy’s is right around the corner if you get bored and want to go get smashed by some waves. You might also be interested in reading about the best turtle beach in Hawaii !

Get sprayed by Halona Blowhole

The Halona Blowhole is on the east side of Oahu and is one of the most popular things to do on Oahu. As the waves crash into the cliffs under the rocks the water surges out of a blowhole shooting into the air. The rougher the day the bigger the spray from the blowhole usually.

Enjoy Dole Whip at the Dole Plantation

The Dole Plantation is a great spot to stop at on the way to the north shore for a tasty pineapple treat. The Plantation offers tours and has a huge hedge maze. The soft serve pineapple whip is like no other ice-cream you’ve had before. Be prepared for masses of tourists. There is an epic tour that takes you all around the island to all of the iconic spots including to the dole plantation. It’s called the Circle-Island tour and most tourists to Oahu love this one.

Book your tour: Circle Island Tour of Oahu

Survive the Three Peaks ‘Olomana Trail’

Three Peaks or Olomana Trail is a treacherous looking hike with three steep peaks that can be seen all the way from Lanikai. This is not a hike for the faint-hearted with a number of narrow parts of the trail with steep drop-offs. The views of the Koolau’s are worth it all.

Lay in the Makapu’u Tide pools

The Makapu’u Lighthouse hike is one of the most popular things to do on Oahu. However, what most people don’t do is venture down the cliffs to the tide-pools on the water’s edge. Once down on the rocky coastline, a number of tide pools are deep enough to jump into and a few blowholes might give you a surprise too.

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Jump off the plank at Alan davis

When parking in the Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail carpark, there is another attraction close by. If you walk back towards Waikiki along the coast away from the lighthouse there are a collection of wooden planks hanging out over the crystal clear water at Alan Davis Beach . Only a few yards high they make the area a perfect spot to hang out for the day. This is one of the lesser known Oahu attractions.

Watch a Surf competition

You have many to choose from as the winter season comes. Notable competitions are the Billabong Pipe Masters and the “Eddie” a big wave surf competition at Waimea Bay. The atmosphere at surf events is like no other sporting events. A friendly low-key environment on the beach while surfers ride some mental waves out in the water. Pictured below is a shot I took at Waimea Bay a week before the “Eddie”. Watching a surf comp is one of the best things to do on Oahu no matter what island you are on.

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Hike and Kayak to Chinaman’s Hat

The Chinaman’s Hat is a small island near Kualoa Ranch. It is accessible by kayak or a short swim. Once you arrive at the island a mini hike to the top will give you amazing views of the shore and the Kualoa Mountains. There is a great kayak rental at Kaneohe that sets up the kayaks on the beach for you so you can paddle out Chinamans Hat . This rental company is a not-for-profit, with proceeds helping to fund Kama’aina Kids and He’eia State Park !

Book your kayaking tour: Kaneohe Guided Kayak and Snorkel Tour

Find the Cromwell’s rock pool

Only a short drive or a 30-minute walk up the hill from Waikiki is the much more relaxed Cromwell’s beach. Explore around the corner and try and spot the semi-enclosed salt water rock pool created by someone with much, much more money than myself.

Stand up paddle board yoga

Combine all the best parts of Oahu in one awesome yoga session on the Ocean while watching a sunset come down one side of Ala Moana, while palm trees line the other side of the bay. You could also try Night SUP yoga with Led lights in what is an epic experience near Waikiki. There’s actually this great tour that does kayaking, stand-up paddleboard, and a short waterfall hike all. inone day.

Book your tour: SUP, Kayak & Waterfall Hike Oahu Tour

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You can click to read my Full Review of the Best Travel Insurance .

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Surf at world famous Waikiki beach

For a few dollars, you can rent yourself a surfboard and join the masses trying their hand at surfing at the famous Waikiki Beach. Or if you are like me you will need a lesson. There’s a great deal that offers you a one-hour and riding a wave lesson for two people at once. They guarantee to have you standing up and riding a wave! There are tons of things to do in Waikiki but surfing has to be at the top of your list. Oh also if you want to see how terrible I am at surfing watch the video below.

Book your lesson: One hour Waikiki surf lesson for two people

Watch the FREE Friday fireworks show at the Hilton

Each Friday the Hilton puts on a FREE blockbuster fireworks display. The fireworks usually begin at 7:45 and hundreds of people fill the beach to watch the fireworks launch from along the shore.

Walk the Makapu’u lighthouse trail

On Oahu’s, most eastern point sits the Makapu’u Lighthouse. The paved trail that takes you there is one of the most popular hikes on Oahu because of how accessible it is and the amazing views it presents. Because the trail is so clearly marked (unlike many of the hikes on Oahu) it is completely foolproof and great for beginners. It is family and dog friendly and a great way to see some fantastic views of the east side. This trail is one of the top five most popular things to do on Oahu.

Gyroplane Flight over Oahu’s North Shore

Imagine soaring above the turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean, feeling the warm Hawaiian sun on your face and the wind rushing through your hair. From high above, you can see the lush green mountains and rugged coastline of Oahu’s North Shore, as well as some of the world-famous surf breaks like Pipeline and Sunset Beach. This is the exhilarating experience of gyroplane flight, a unique and thrilling way to explore the beauty of Hawaii’s third-largest island. I did this flight and it was one of the coolest, and most unique things to do on Oahu.

Book your flight by visiting their site: Skyland Air

a man in a yellow jet flying over the ocean.

Visit and/or jump at Spitting Cave

One of my favorite things to do on Oahu was to head to spitting cave on the east coast cliffs and watch the divers jumping off. I had done some Oahu cliff jumping in the past but this spot was always a little bit sketchy for me at the time. Water rushes in with waves, filling the cave before being spat out with great force. It’s one of the top things to do in Oahu for adrenaline junkies. This is also a great place to watch the sunset in the summer or spot whales in the winter.

Swi m with Hawaiian Sea Turtles

This whole-day tour is a combination of land and water excursion and will show you Oahu’s famous spots and hidden gems with sea turtle snorkeling on Oahu. The tour picks you up at 7:15 in the morning at selected Waikiki hotels and the itinerary includes Diamond Head Lookout, Tropical Hawaiian Coffee, and Macadamia Nut Farms, ChinaMan’s Hat, North Shore Shrimp Trucks, North Shore Fruit Stand, the legendary Sunset Beach, Turtle Snorkeling, and Dole Pineapple Plantation.

The highlight of the trip is the snorkeling in Hanauma Bay where it’s quite famous for swimming with lots of tropical fish and sea turtles . Don’t worry about the gear as the tour guide will provide you snorkel gear like goggles and masks. This tour is perfect for visitors who stay in Oahu for a short time but still want to see what Oahu has to offer.

Book your tour : Hidden Gems of Oahu with North Shore Turtle Snorkeling

Find the bridge at the Maunawili hike

The Maunawili hike is another trail into the jungle! You will find a large pool of water and even a rope swing. But can you get off the beaten path and find the bridge?

Try an acai bowl on the North Shore

Acai berries are a superfood native to Central and South America. They contain more antioxidants than most berries including cranberries and even blueberries. Most Acai bowls often come topped other fruits and berries and even granola, so they are actually quite filling.

Bodyboard in the Shore break at Sandys

Nicknamed ‘Neck Break Beach’ the waves at Sandy Beach are unforgiving. Huge waves crash directly onto sand or only a few feet of water. It sounds like there would be few venturing into the water however, this is the most crowded beach on a weekend. Locals flock to get barrels before getting dumped and the beach is always full of action.

Parasailing at Waikiki

What better way to see Oahu than from hundreds of feet up in the air. Parasailing is the perfect activity on Oahu as the sun sets so you can enjoy the beautiful colors from up high, looking down on the city. This tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off.

Book your tour: Parasailing on Oahu

See a Hawaiian Monk Seal

The Hawaiian monk seal is the only seal native to Hawaii and is one of only two mammals native to the islands. I was lucky enough to see a few monk seals both in the ocean and on shore. They are protected so once they swim onto the shore you must keep a safe distance from them and definitely don’t touch them.

Take an Oahu Photography Tour

There are plenty of awesome spots on Oahu to get a good look at the stars each night. Away from the city at Kaena Point or at Makapu’u seem to be the most popular. There are several photography tours on Oahu and I will link them below. Some are for sunrise, sunset or landscape focused with locals who know the spots and can teach you how to shoot amazing photos.

Photography Tour: Full-Circle Island Photo Tour

Photography Tour: Sunset Photography Tour

Visit Makua Beach

On the far west side of Oahu, Makua Beach lies at the foot of majestic mountains, hiding behind a wall of trees. Crystal clear waters wash upon a long stretch of beach with a backdrop of Makua Valley and cliffs that seem to encapsulate the secluded beach. Visiting this beach is one of the most special things to do on Oahu.

Try Haupia Pie

A traditional coconut pudding many locals crave. One of the best spots to get a Haupia Pie after a day of beaching it on the north shore is Ted’s Bakery.

Find the Kaniakapupu Ruins

Also known as King Kamehameha III summer home, this is a slice of Hawaiian history hidden on the Nu’uanu Oahu hike. The hike is short and on the same trails as the Luakaha Waterfall.

Watch a sunrise at Chinamans Hat

Get up early and head to the east coast of Oahu before the sun rises. The Koolau’s will loom behind you in the darkness as you wait for the sun to creep over the horizon. This area is really beautiful during sunrise and just after as the mountains will be lit perfectly and Chinamans Hat is a nice silhouette out in the water.

I hope you enjoyed this guide to the best things to do on Oahu and found a few activities for you and your family to do while on vacation.

WHERE TO STAY ON OAHU

Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort (Overall Favorite) : In the heart of Waikiki, this high-end resort is right on the beach with a private lagoon.
Sheraton Waikiki (Luxury) : A luxury resort with the most amazing infinity pool on the island, which overlooks the beach.
Ewa Hotel Waikiki : (Value): Ewa Hotel is just one block back from the beach and is just over $150 USD.
Waikiki Beachside Hostel (Budget Choice) : A budget alternative, which is still in an amazing location.
Disney Aulani Resort (Family Choice): This is a resort your kids will never forget. It honestly feels like you are living in a theme park.

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Oahu tours, activities, & services.

Tours & Activities on Oahu

Oahu hawaii adventures & excursions.

As the most populous and iconic island in the Hawaiian archipelago, Oahu offers a wide range of experiences for travelers to enjoy.

At HawaiiGuide, we understand how much time and effort go into planning the perfect Oahu vacation. We also know that your precious vacation time is limited and that you want to experience only the best adventures on Oahu.

Free Oahu Tours & Activities Concierge

Tell us about your interests, and our personalized concierge will recommend the best tours and activities tailored just for you.

Instead of sifting through countless options (there are over 1,000+ Oahu tours to choose from), let our intelligent concierge chatbot guide you to the perfect experiences on Oahu, focusing only on what you want .

Explore the Oahu Concierge

To this end, we have carefully handpicked these Oahu Tours and Adventures with you in mind. Name an activity or tour and you can likely book it on Oahu: hiking, whale watching, surfing, paddle boarding, ziplining, horseback riding... the possibilities are seemingly endless.

Also, we believe in paying it forward and giving back, so every Oahu tour or package booked on our site will have a portion of its proceeds set aside for sponsoring sustainable and environmental charities that help preserve the beautiful islands of Hawaii.

Our Must-Do Oahu Activities

Featured oahu tours, our top choices on oahu, oahu experiences.

Oahu is known as the "Gathering Place," and with so many things to see and do it’s no surprise, it’s the most visited of all the Hawaiian Islands. Choosing from a seemingly infinite number of adventures can be a bit daunting; that’s why we’re highlighting the absolute best Oahu Must See and Do here- to let you know what makes the island truly shine.

Oahu just might be the perfect island to visit- the climate is fabulous, cultural activities abound, and the island is steeped in history. Plus, if you love the fresh air you’ll enjoy world-class water and beach fun, as well as gorgeous green panoramas just waiting for you to experience. Check out some of Oahu’s Must See and Do Adventures:

A cultural experience like no other, luaus are not just a feast, but a special way to celebrate an event. The abundant and delicious food represents the aloha spirit that brings you and your island hosts together. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the storytelling through hula dancing, music, and cultural displays. When you’re at a luau , you are ohana.

Pearl Harbor

The site of one of the most pivotal moments in US history, Pearl Harbor stands as both a monument and final resting place for 1,177 young men aboard the USS Arizona. A tour to the museums and memorials at Pearl Harbor offers not only a solemn reminder of “a date that will live in infamy”, but a way to honor the fallen.

Diamond Head

No trip to Oahu would be complete without a trip to Hawaii’s most recognized landmark, Diamond Head . This geologic wonder is also known as “Le’ahi”, which means “brow of the tuna”, an acknowledgment of its unique shape. Climb the historic hiking trail to the top- once a part of Oahu’s coastal defense system- and enjoy views nothing short of spectacular.

Snorkel Hanauma Bay

Not only Oahu’s most famous snorkeling spot, but also a nature preserve, Hanauma Bay is a postcard-perfect, crescent-shaped cove that hosts a rainbow of tropical marine life. The waters here are clear and calm and the fish abundant, tame, and easy to spot. If you only snorkel once in Hawaii, do so at Hanauma Bay.

Recommended Oahu Tours

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The 5 Best Oahu Circle Island Tours

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you decide to make a purchase through my links we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Read about our affiliate policies here .

Ditch the need for a rental car by going on one of the best Oahu circle island tours! Take in the best stops on the island with a local guide who does the driving, talks story, and is your private photographer.

While we enjoy making Hawaii island itineraries and sharing them with you, we would be doing you wrong by not recommending an Oahu circle island tour.

Here are our reasons for doing an Oahu circle island tour during your visit:

Pick the Oahu circle island tour right for you! Large group, private, adventure, small group, Pearl Harbor included, etc.
They are a great way to see the whole island in one day and then go back to your favorite part of the island.
Let a local guide share their island knowledge, history, and stories. Plus, they will know the best stops based on the weather.
Skip a rental car on Oahu and those $50-a-night parking fees by exploring the island with a circle island tour.
Do the tour on your first day. You will have a better understanding of the island’s geography, where to go back, and the history of the island.
A photographer is included! Your guide is also your photographer to help capture those Hawaii memories

When it comes to guided tours, Oahu circle island tours are your one-stop shop for the North Shore and sights like Diamond Head and Makapu’u Lighthouse! You’ll get to see some of the best of the Gathering Place without the hassle of planning and driving, which is also great if you’re short on time.

Ready to explore the best of Oahu? Join one of these Oahu circle island tours and get to adventuring! Our quick list is below!

Here are the best Oahu circle island tours (in our opinion): – Are you looking for an adventure tour ? Take a private tour that you can customize with hiking, waterfall swims, snorkeling, and more! – A private tour of Oahu with two 1.5-hour activities and multiple photo spots. – Best large group tour (45 passengers) at a good price. – Are you staying in Ko Olina in West Oahu? This tour will pick you up at your Ko Olina resort (Disney’s Aulani, Four Seasons, Marriott, etc) – Small group tour (13 people) without the private tour price

When you book an Oahu circle island tour on our website, you are getting the best price and you are booking directly with the local tour company.

By booking here, you are helping us provide more quality reviews . Mahalo!

The Best Oahu Circle Island Tours

Full disclosure, we have been on some of these circle island tours but not all of them. But, we have thoroughly researched all of these tour companies and gotten feedback from our newsletter community.

We are confident you will enjoy these Oahu circle island tours as we looked at the following characteristics:

Value: a quality tour at a good price
The best online reviews and comments
They have the best Oahu stops and activities
Their local guides are knowledgeable, fun, and professional
They have quality and comfortable vehicles

Watch our experience on our favorite Oahu circle island tour below to help you better understand what to expect on your day around the island.

Best Large Group Oahu Circle Island Tour

Hop on this 10-hour Oahu adventure that’s perfect for big families and groups. Oahu Nature Tours Ultimate Circle Island Tour accommodates up to 45 people and is a jam-packed day of sightseeing!

The tour includes lunch and access to Waimea Valley . Some of the notable stops include Diamond Head Crater, Halona Blowhole, sea turtles at Halona Beach, Makapu’u Lighthouse, Mokoli’i Island, North Shore shrimp farms, and the Dole Plantation.

One of the coolest things about this Circle Island tour is that they bring along an expert nature guide to point out Hawaii’s unique flora and fauna, alongside information on Oahu’s rich history, geology, and heritage.

Best Oahu circle island tours - Diamond Head

This tour includes roundtrip transportation – they’ll pick you up from your hotel in Honolulu – and lunch from Fumi’s Shrimp Stand, with delicious options like lemon pepper shrimp and chicken katsu. You’ll also walk away with a 152-page, pocket nature guide as a souvenir!

Don’t forget your rain ponchos! Hawaii’s variable weather won’t stop you as this tour operates rain or shine. You’ll also want to wear comfortable shoes ( we like Tevas ) although you’ll only clock about 1.5 miles throughout the day. Guests must be 3 years and older.

Best Oahu Private Tours

A private tour of Oahu is a special treat! We love customizing our itinerary and having the flexibility of a private guide for the day. This is one of those times when splurging is well worth it!

Some of the best parts of a private tour is that you get to pick exactly what you want to see and do (or they’ll choose for you), you’ll be picked up right at your accommodation, and you have your tour guide all to yourself for any burning questions.

Best Oahu circle island tours - Ted's Bakery North Shore

Here are two of our favorite companies for private tours of Oahu.

Mahina Hawaii

Mahina Hawaii runs completely private, 8-hour tours of Oahu, whether you want to do a full Circle Island Tour or focus on one specific area. The entire tour is tailored to what your group wants to see and they choose locations based on both your preferences and current weather conditions.

Although the itinerary is fully customizable, some options include snorkeling, hiking to waterfalls, cliff jumping, local food tastings, and traditional sightseeing at destinations like the Byodo-in Temple. Because this tour is just for you and your group, you can stop anywhere along the way, whether it is planned or spur of the moment.

Your private guide, transportation, snacks, water, snorkel equipment, and GoPro photos and videos are all included. Although lunch isn’t provided they have many delicious recommendations to choose from along the way.

If you have more than 7 in your group, you’ll need to let them know when you book the tour. They can get more van and local guides to fit your group size.

We went out with them on one of our Oahu trips and had a blast!

Best Oahu circle island tours - Mahina Hawaii

Halia Tours

Halia Tours operates a 9-hour circle island tour that can accommodate groups of up to 10. Each tour aims to include two 1.5-hour activities and 3 to 5 photo stops with plenty of time to grab snacks and a bite to eat along the way.

Because this is a private tour, your itinerary is fully customizable to circumnavigate Oahu’s Koolau Range. Just some of the activity options include Oahu’s world-famous beaches, kayaking, paddleboarding, hiking to Diamond Head or the Waimea Valley waterfall, scenic lookouts, and downtown Honolulu stops like the Bishop’s Museum. You can even “theme” your tour around foodie hot spots and shopping.

Best Oahu circle island tours - Waimea Valley Waterfall

Although they are a private tour group and guests can “go anywhere” they emphasized not entering local neighborhoods or heading to unsafe areas. Food, drinks, rentals, and any additional entrance fees are a la carte.

If you’re looking for a half-day option, they can also do a “ mini tour ” that will have you back at your hotel, sipping Mai Tais by the early afternoon. They have flat rate pricing for groups of 1-5 or 5-10, which might affect your decision if you’re a smaller group.

Best Oahu Circle Island Tour from Ko Olina

Most group tours on Oahu leave from Waikiki. If you’re staying in Ko Olina Resort (Disney’s Aulani, Marriott, Four Seasons) , E Noa is your best option! Offering a 9-hour, group circle island tour for up to 25 guests, this group size feels a little less “big box” than the large tours and allows for plenty of time to truly experience all of the wonderful Oahu highlights along the way.

You’ll avoid Honolulu traffic, stopping at sights like Nu’uanu Pali Lookout, Byodo-In Temple, Tropical Farms for macadamia nut cultivation, Waimea Valley, and end at the Dole Plantation.

Best Oahu circle island tours - Nu'uanu Pali Lookout

Lunch and all of your admission fees are included in the price which makes this a great value. You’ll also be riding in style in a mini-bus with A/C and pick up and drop off from your hotel. Don’t forget to bring along your bathing suit and comfortable walking shoes.

Reminder, this tour departs from Ko Olina on the west side of Oahu.

Undecided about where to stay? Which Part of Oahu Should You Stay: Waikiki or Ko Olina or North Shore Where to Stay on Oahu: the Best Locations and Hotels Hawaii Hotel vs Airbnb: How to Decide What’s Best For Your Hawaii Vacation

Best Small Group Oahu Circle Island Tour

Pineapple Exp ’ small group circle island tour is the perfect option for those who want a more intimate experience without the private tour sticker shock.

Not only will you have plenty of time to stop and truly experience each place but your guide will be more readily available for questions and to drop some knowledge.

You’ll travel around Oahu with up to just 13 other vacationers on this 9-hour journey. Just some of your stops along the way are popular sights like Diamond Head State Monument, Byodo-In Temple, Makapu’u Point, Haleiwa Town Center, Dole Plantation, and North Shore Macadamia Nut Company. You’ll also stop at a few places that some of the other tours don’t such as Secret Turtle Beach and the Halona Blowhole.

best oahu circle island tour small group tour

Transportation to and from your hotel, water, snorkeling equipment, and Dole Whip are all included and all ages are welcome. You’re also gifted a Hawaiian pineapple at the end! How awesome is that?

Don’t forget to bring your bathing suit, comfy walking shoes, and reef-safe sunscreen!

Thinking of staying on the North Shore? The Best North Shore Oahu Hotels and Vacation Rentals 21 Amazing Things to Do on Oahu’s North Shore A Local Resident’s 10 Free Things To Do on North Shore Oahu

What to Expect on an Oahu Circle Island Tour

Oahu circle island tour itinerary (sample).

Wondering what you’ll see on an Oahu Circle Island Tour? Here’s an idea of what you can expect…

Tours typically start in Honolulu and head east in a counter-clockwise direction around the island.
First stops are often Diamond Head Crater and Makapu’u Point, continuing north to Byodo-In Temple and one of the macadamia nut farms (yum!).
You’ll then explore the North Shore including the town of Haleiwa and Waimea Valley.
Most tours finish up at the Dole Plantation for a sweet treat on your way back to Honolulu.

Best Oahu circle island tours - Makapu'u Lighthouse

We highly recommend saving Pearl Harbor for a day of its own. Circle island tours that include a stop at Pearl Harbor are exceptionally long and it takes up a good chunk of the day that could be spent seeing other sights on Oahu.

We have a separate list of Pearl Harbor Tours if you’re interested in a guided option or you can easily visit on your own .

How long is an Oahu circle island tour?

Plan to be gone for an entire day on one of Oahu’s circle island tours. Most options range anywhere from 8 to 10 hours in total, with the majority of tours taking around 9 hours on average. Tours typically pick you up from (or near) your hotel early in the morning and drop you off just in time for dinner.

What is the best way to tour Oahu?

Hopping on a circle island guided tour is one of the best ways to see Oahu. These tours include most of the famous sites on the island, so you can tick off a bunch of different activities in one go. You’ll also have the added benefit of a professional guide, who can give you background on local history and culture, and you won’t have to worry about any planning.

If you’re thinking about DIYing the same route with a rental car, we highly recommend following our Oahu itinerary ! Keep in mind that renting a car can be a little bit of a hassle and comes with some “hidden” fees like overnight parking at your hotel.

Best Oahu circle island tours - DIY Circle Island Tour

What is the most scenic part of Oahu?

We couldn’t give the award for the most scenic part of Oahu to just one place. The whole island is very beautiful!

Our two favorites for scenery on the island are the North Shore and Windward Oahu.

The North Shore is a must for its more down-to-earth, local vibes and lush scenery. Winter brings big waves and surfing competitions that are exciting to see. A visit in summer means you can enjoy the stunning beaches from both the sand and the water.

Windward Oahu has a truly stunning stretch of coastline between Kualoa and Kailua. The Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden also makes for an incredible stop and is one of the most scenic spots we’ve found on Oahu. Picture 400 acres of gardens to explore with plants from around the world, all with the backdrop of Oahu’s jagged, Ko’olau Range.

Best Oahu circle island tours - Windward Oahu

Keep exploring: Is There a Best Time to Visit Oahu? The 4 Best Months 40 Things to Do on Oahu, Hawaii (we will surprise you!) 10 Best Beaches on Oahu: Secluded, White Sand, Find It All 34 Great Things to Do in Honolulu (that are actually IN Honolulu)

If you love the idea of a circle island tour so you don’t have to worry about planning, then you are going to love our itineraries . The best beaches, restaurants, hotels, vacation rentals, tours, and fully planned excursion days are at your fingertips. Skip the countless hours of research and planning, leave it to us, and go have an amazing vacation!

we are very very pleased with the itinerary you have put together. Well worth the money as I think this would have taken days and days to research ourselves . You two do a great job putting this together and it’s much appreciated. Robert K.

Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary

Get the oahu itinerary.

The step-by-step itinerary takes you to all the best beaches, snorkeling spots, restaurants, and sights. You’ll get six carefully planned excursion days to help you see the can’t miss stops no matter how limited your time is.

Get all the details on our itinerary and download it for a memorable and easily planned trip to Oahu.

Thanks for reading The Hawaii Vacation Guide! I'm the co-founder, with my wife Erica, of the best Hawaii travel guide on the internet in our biased opinions. We enjoy traveling throughout Hawaii after living on Maui and Oahu. We share our adventures, travel tips and resources, and honest reviews so you can easily plan your dream vacation to Hawaii. Editing our videos, teaching the kids how to snorkel, and learning about the 'aina (land) and Hawaii culture are my favorite things to do. Have a wonderful trip to the Aloha State.

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10 Incredible Oahu Boat Tours Worth Booking

Aare you looking for fun things to do in oahu with your family keep scrolling for the top oahu boat tours to book before your trip., this list of the best oahu boat tours was written by hawaii travel expert marcie cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

Oahu is a beautiful Hawaiian island full of epic activities and outdoor adventures. It’s the perfect place to visit with family, friends, or as a couple.

If you’re spending time on Oahu and you’d like to get on boat tours to explore the Pacific Ocean while enjoying the gorgeous scenery around you, this is the list you need.

Take a closer look at some of the best Oahu boat tours you can take to make the most of your trip.

You’ll have plenty of options to see several wonderful things while you’re exploring the area and learning a lot more about the island.

Some of these Oahu boat cruises book up weeks in advance, so I strongly suggest you reserve them before your trip.

See my favorite Oahu boat tour option HERE!

Don’t have time to read a bunch of Hawaii blog posts and reviews? Here are some of our top picks for visiting Oahu.

Popular Oahu Tours/Activities

Kualoa Ranch UTV Tour (this is a fun adventure with the prettiest views)
Full Pearl Harbor Tour (this is the BEST way to do everything at Pearl Harbor)
Hawaii Bucket List Tour (you get to pick where you stop on this custom Oahu Circle Island tour)
Toa Luau (this is my all-time favorite Oahu luau)
CLIMB Works Ziplining (this is the longest zipline on Oahu)
Book a Photo Shoot (this is a Hawaii souvenir you’ll treasure forever)

Favorite Oahu Resorts/Hotels

Hilton Hawaiian Village (this is our favorite Waikiki resort because of the amazing pool area and nearby restaurants)
Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa (this is a splurge that is totally worth it)
Royal Hawaiian Hotel (this is a luxury resort in Waikiki that is pink and gorgeous)

Want to Rent a Car in Hawaii? One of the best places to rent a car in Hawaii is Discount Hawaii Car Rental because they get the best rates from top national companies like Alamo, Dollar, Thrifty, Avis, Enterprise, Budget, and Payless.

Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Oahu Itinerary, complete with daily schedules, kid-friendly activities, and travel hacks? Click the button below.

Seriously Cool Oahu Boat Cruises for Your Trip

1. oahu catamaran cruise.

Take a chartered boat for a cruise along the Pacific Ocean with the Oahu Catamaran Cruise . The ships are spacious enough for guests to travel in large groups while still enjoying themselves.

Both regular and private cruises are also available, so it’s possible to head out on the water with just your family and friends if you’d like. Check latest prices and more information .

The best part about the cruise is that you can decide when you’d like to head out on the water.

You can go on the cruise in the early morning, afternoon, or evening to watch the sunset over the ocean. Pick a date and time to experience the area of Oahu like never before. Click here to see more reviews .

2. Oahu Atlantis Submarine Adventure

If you’d like to experience a trip in the water like none other, the Oahu Atlantis Submarine Adventure is an excellent choice. Instead of riding solely above the water, you’ll get to head 100 feet underneath the surface to explore the sea.

If you’d like to go on this fantastic adventure, you’ll hop on a boat that takes you to Waikiki to access the submarine. Check latest prices and more information. You can also read our detailed Atlantis Submarine tour review HERE .

Once everyone jumps on the Atlantis submarine, the pilots and captains carefully make the descent. You can see the ocean like never before while watching different fish species and even sharks as they swim nearby.

During your time underwater, you’re going to see stunning sights while learning more about the area. You’ll find out about some of the manufactured coral reefs created and placed in parts of the ocean for several reasons.

If you want to have a learning experience while traveling deep into the sea with family and friends, this is the perfect boat tour for you. Click here to see more reviews .

Find out how to go diving on Oahu with sharks with this epic Oahu shark dive. Image of a Great White Shark.

3. Oahu Shark Dive

Have you ever wanted to see a shark up close to you? If you love the idea of seeing sharks but don’t want to be exposed to them out in the open, the Oahu Shark Dive is a great boat tour for you.

You can head out on the North Shore in a boat to reach deeper water before putting on a protective wet suit and following a guide’s instructions.

You’ll enter the enclosed shark cage, get your gear ready, and then the attached cage will begin descending into the water.

It’s the perfect chance for you to see sharks of all sizes as they swim around you. Check latest prices and more information .

During this time, you’ll need to keep your hands and feet inside the shark cage. You can take your time to soak in the experience before the cage gets lifted back onto the boat.

It’s a thrilling adventure worth adding to your bucket list . If you want to have such a unique experience, don’t hesitate to make your reservations. Click to see more reviews .

4. Waikiki Sunset Cocktail Cruise

If you’re looking for an awesome Oahu sunset cruise , Waikiki is the place to be! And the perfect boat tour for you is the Waikiki Sunset Cocktail Cruise .

The cruises last for approximately 90 minutes. You can ride on the catamaran during the journey while watching the sun as it starts to set over the horizon. Check latest prices and more information .

You’ll depart from Oahu and glide along the Pacific Ocean, heading over to Diamond Head. Not only do you get to enjoy the stunning views, but you’ll also have access to unlimited cocktails and appetizers.

This Waikiki catamaran sunset cruise is the perfect way to spend a romantic evening with your significant other when traveling in Oahu together.

The catamaran is spacious enough for plenty of guests to sit comfortably. You can choose any spot to sit to get the best view possible. Both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are available on the catamaran Oahu.

You can expect to pass by some popular hot spots in the area, including the Diamond Head State Monument and Waikiki Beach, while on your relaxing cruise. Click to see more reviews .

This is definitely the top sunset cocktail cruise Waikiki has to offer!

5. Waikiki Glass Bottom Boat Cruise

Have you ever experienced riding in a boat with a glass bottom? If not, you’re missing out on one amazing experience.

The Afternoon Waikiki Glass Bottom Boat Cruise is an affordable, family-friendly cruise that takes guests out on the water to see sights and learn lots of valuable information.

Those who get on the catamaran will get to know about the rich history of Hawaii and what it has become today.

In addition, these Oahu glass-bottom boat tours make it easy for guests to see stunning fish, spinner dolphins, Hawaiian green sea turtles, and other sea life without getting wet. Check latest prices and more information .

You never know what you’re going to see when you’re on the cruise. The canopies attached to the catamaran will keep you shielded from the sun and comfortable while you attempt to see spinner dolphins, whales , and giant sea turtles.

So if you don’t want to go snorkeling but you’d like to see beautiful, colorful tropical fish throughout the Pacific Ocean, this cruise is a must! Click to see more reviews .

6. Polynesian Canoe Sunset Sail

Spend two hours sailing the sea with the Polynesian Canoe Sunset Sail Tour . This is one of the most unique things to do on Oahu and another one of the great sunset cruises to enjoy.

Instead of riding on a large boat with many people, you can have a more intimate experience while riding in a smaller sailboat. Check latest prices and more information .

While sailing along the coastline, a tour guide will provide fun and exciting facts and stories about the area. Food and drinks are available on the sailboat, too.

If you’d rather avoid the large crowds’ other tours sometimes have while making memories with your loved ones watching the sunset, this is an excellent boat tour to take.

You might even get to see dolphins or humpback whales while you sail! Click to see more reviews .

Find out where to go whale watching on Oahu with this awesome Oahu whale watching cruise. Image of two whales swimming in the ocean.

7. Oahu Whale-Watching Excursion

Head out on a lengthy and exciting whale-watching trip with the Oahu Whale Watching Excursion tour. You can spend roughly two hours in the water while traveling through the sea to spot humpback whales in their natural habitat. This tour takes off from Downtown Honolulu.

It’s an intimate experience that allows you to watch these amazing creatures while they swim close to the boat and even eat food in front of you. Check latest prices and more information .

If you don’t see any humpback whales while you’re on the excursion, you get to return and retake the tour without paying a second time.

Be sure to bring the binoculars with you for this tour. If you have binoculars, it makes it easier for you to spot the whales before heading over in the direction of these giant sea creatures.

You can bring your own food on the boat or enjoy the many snacks provided to guests by the friendly crew. Click to see more reviews .

The Star of Honolulu dinner cruise is one of the top Oahu boat tours to book ahead of your trip. Image of a small cruise ship in Honolulu.

8. Star Casual Sunset & Show Cruise

Enjoy a two-hour trip on a large cruise ship that departs from Oahu and takes you out into the ocean for incredible views and a relaxing experience during this sunset dinner cruise Honolulu offers.

The Star Casual Sunset & Show Cruise has much to offer its guests. Live Hawaiian entertainment is available on the cruise to keep you excited and in awe over the experience. It’s one of the top Honolulu boat tours and sunset cruises.

You can enjoy a three-course meal consisting of both crab and steak. Check latest prices and more information .

If you decide to take this Waikiki dinner cruise on Friday, you’ll get to spend an additional hour out on the water while watching beautiful fireworks hover over you.

If you’re concerned about travel, don’t worry! You can get picked up at your hotel and dropped back off at night after spending hours in the water on the cruise ship. The round-trip transportation is what makes this quite the family-friendly tour to enjoy. Click to see more reviews .

This is the best sunset cruise Oahu has to offer by far!

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9. Turtle Canyon Catamaran Oahu Snorkel Cruise

If you’d like to head out on the water and have the opportunity to go snorkeling, the Turtle Canyon Catamaran Snorkel Cruise is perfect for you.

The tours last up to three hours, giving you plenty of time to explore the sea. The catamaran sails over to an ideal location where you can see plenty of colorful fish and large green sea turtles. Check latest prices and more information .

If you’d love to see what these creatures look like while swimming around in the water, go snorkeling to get the best possible view. You also will get to explore all the live tropical reefs and swim to see other hidden gems on the ocean floor.

Morning trips last for two hours, while midday trips last for three hours. Besides going snorkeling and seeing beautiful marine animals, guests on these Waikiki boat tours receive snacks, drinks, and even lunch on the midday trip.

If you have any concerns because you’ve never snorkeled before, there’s nothing to worry about because the guides are there to help. You’ll have all the gear provided to you before you head out in the water.

Plus, you are guaranteed to see sea turtles, or else you get another cruise for free, making it one of the best boat tours on the island for snorkeling! Snorkel gear is included with your tour. Click to see more reviews .

10. Kaneohe Sandbar Catamaran Ocean Sports Adventure

For another one of the best boat tours on Oahu, check out this Kaneohe Bay Sandbar Ocean Sports Adventure . Located along the start of North Shore, Kaneohe Bay offers a unique experience with a sandbar only accessible by boat !

Set sail on a catamaran and head to the sandbar. Once you are there, you can relax in a lounge, go kayaking, snorkeling, paddle boarding, and do just about anything you want! Check latest prices and more information.

You might see some manta rays, dolphins, green sea turtles, and other tropical fish on the Pacific Ocean Floor during this tour.

It is the perfect boat tour the entire family can enjoy! Plus, it also offers round-trip transportation from Waikiki. Click to see more reviews.

Oahu Boat Tour FAQs

If you’re looking for a dinner cruise, Oahu has several really cool options. My top pick is the Star of Honolulu dinner cruise . Here, you’ll enjoy steak and crab with some of the most beautiful scenery Oahu has to offer.

If you’re looking for a cheap booze cruise, Oahu isn’t really the place to find that. Or anywhere in Hawaii, really. However, there are some nice Waikiki sunset cruises that include cocktails . These are less rowdy than booze cruises.

There are several Oahu catamaran cruises, but my top pick is this one from Waikiki. That’s because you’ll get to go snorkeling with Hawaiian green sea turtles. It’s one of the top Oahu catamaran snorkel tours I’ve found!

I think Oahu offers some of the best boat tours you’ll find! From a Honolulu catamaran sunset cruise to a whale-watching boat tour, glass-bottom boat cruises, dinner cruises, and more, these are all so much fun! Going on a boat tour with your family will truly be a memorable experience.

Best Oahu Boat Tours Wrap Up

If having the time of your life out on the water in Oahu sounds like a fantastic idea, take advantage of the opportunity to get out there via different Oahu boat rides.

Whether you want to see some sharks, hop off the boat to go snorkeling, see some humpback whales, explore Hawaii’s popular shipwrecks, or even enjoy the view from a boat with a glass bottom, you have several great options.

You can even go on a cruise to watch the sunset and have access to live entertainment. With these Waikiki boat cruises and Oahu boat trips, you’re sure to have an epic time!

Looking for more fun things to do on Oahu ? Find out the best Oahu luaus , where to go snorkeling on Oahu , the top tours in Honolulu , and where to go kayaking on Oahu !

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Circle Island Tours

Embark on an unforgettable journey with our Circle Island Tours , where each Hawaiian island offers a story waiting to be discovered. Imagine yourself strolling along the sun-kissed beaches of Oahu , each step uncovering a new, breathtaking vista. Our tours are more than just sightseeing; they’re an invitation to immerse yourself in the vibrant heartbeat of the islands. Feel the spirit of adventure as you explore Samoa’s untamed beauty, where each rugged trail leads to a new discovery. We’ve designed our tours for those who crave a deeper connection with the places they visit. From tranquil coastal walks to thrilling explorations of hidden gems, we cater to all shades of adventure. Join us, and let’s weave together a tapestry of experiences that blend local charm, natural wonders, and unforgettable memories. Your dream island adventure awaits, and we’re here to make it a vibrant reality. Let’s create a vacation that you’ll look back on with a heart full of joy and stories to tell for years to come .

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Circle Island Sightseeing Vacations

There are islands all over the world that we love. We provide our own guided tours on Maui , Oahu , and Big Island from our home islands here in Hawaii. In addition, our close partners throughout Polynesia, all the way down to the South Island of New Zealand, can deliver exceptional one-day and multi-day island holidays. So circle our beautiful islands on your next vacation. You will love it!

Groups & Corporate Travel

We can handle all sizes of groups from 2 people to 2000. Our teams of guides and agents can organize conferences, events, parades, school bands, sports teams, and even support military exercises. We look forward to serving our client companies’ needs with retreats, team building space, or simply some great activities that everyone can bond over. We can make it happen!

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Circle Island Tour Reviews

We loved our day exploring coffee farms, an active volcano, rainforest waterfalls and like everything about it. I had my head on a swivel, there was always something more to see!

We went down the road to Hana and then kept going. It was the best day we had on Maui. The stuff past Hana is absolutely awesome. The Best waterfalls, roadside cliff views, historic buildings and big open areas. It was cool.

The island has a lot of people but that means they have lots of great little places to eat at and check out. That is what we did all day long. New places, new tastes, new everything. Each part of the island is different. Going all the way around allowed us to see it all.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are circle island tours, what are the vacation packages, why are helicopter tours included, why are some tours referred to as being “grand”, the best guides & customer service.

We create opportunities for wonderful memories with your family and friends at a great value. Each day is an important time investment. You won’t waste your time or money choosing us.

Stress-Free Bookings & Changes

Book your tour now and make changes at no cost. Our team is here to make your trip exceptional. We will make sure you are taking the right tour on the right day (on the right island!).

We Provide Custom Island Tours

We are a full-service tour operator and travel agency based here in Hawaii. We provide small group shared and private sightseeing tours. Check out our tours or book a private to customize your day even more.

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We will never forget our roots and that is to deliver wonderful island experiences every day. Please reach out to us at any time by email, chat, and text. Or call us between 8 AM and 5 PM daily, Hawaiian time.

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81 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Oahu (Hawaii)

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Oahu, the third-largest Hawaiian island, boasts many diverse and exciting activities.

It’s home to Pearl Harbor, numerous hiking trails, stargazing locations, Jurassic Park tours, and a variety of beach activities like snorkeling and diving. There is no shortage of things to do in Oahu .

Stay in iconic Honolulu or at Waikiki Beach and experience paradise for a few days. Oahu is perfect for couples, families, or friends and has 81 fun things to do, see and discover.

1 – Float on a kayak along Kailua Beach

Kailua Beach , located on the island’s eastern shore, is a great family destination as it offers lots of watersports opportunities. Go swimming , snorkeling (see tropical fish or even a giant turtle or two) or kayaking (Na Mokulua Islands or Popoia Island are popular kayaking destinations).

If you’re based in Honolulu, Kailua Beach is on the island’s Windward Coast and it takes around 30 minutes to reach via the Pali Highway. Lanikai Beach is five minutes away, so you might as well make a beach day out of both at the same time.

kayak tours in Oahu

Directions in Google Maps

2 – Visit the Pearl Harbor National Memorial

Pearl Harbor National Memorial, Oahu, Hawaii

History buffs will want to visit the Pearl Harbor National Memorial site, where the tragic event took place in 1941. The memorial, located only 15 minutes from Honolulu, is open daily from 7AM to 5 PM and is free for all visitors.

The site is dedicated to the over 1,100 sailors and marines who lost their lives and consists of the visitor center and several memorials: the USS Arizona Memorial (in the middle of the ocean), the USS Utah memorial, the USS Oklahoma memorial and more. Nearby you can also find the Battleship Missouri Memorial, USS Bowfin museum and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum.

Pearl Harbor tickets & tours

3 – Explore the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum

Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, Oahu, Hawaii

The Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum can be accessed by shuttle bus from the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, which leaves every 15 minutes. The museum is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM and tickets cost $25.99 for adults and $14.99 for children ages 4 to 12.

The museum is divided into two spaces, Hangar 37 and Hangar 79, and provides a fascinating insight into the famous attack. See real war aircrafts from the attack and learn more about the history through visual aids and back-stories. The museum also features a gift shop, cafe (themed like the 1940s), and state-of-the-art flight simulators.

You can book a tour up the ‘Top of the Tower’, from where you can enjoy unique views of the 1941 battlefield on Ford Island. The USS Oklahoma and USS Utah Memorials are both located on this island.

4 – Visit the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park

USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park, Oahu, Hawaii

The USS Bowfin has been converted into a museum showcasing a collection of intriguing artifacts surrounding the history of US submarines. The museum is open daily from 7 AM to 5 PM and tickets cost $21.99 for adults and $12.99 for children .

Board the submarine, located around the main Pearl Harbor sites, and explore a WW2 submarine first-hand. Explore the two dedicated galleries: the World War Two Gallery and the Cold War Gallery and admire maritime objects, photographs and personal letters. Parts of the submarine are also on display, like control boards and propellers.

5 – Fight off raptors at Jurassic Park (Kualoa Ranch)

The movies Jurassic Park and Jurassic World (among others) were filmed at Kualoa Ranch. Other than serving as a movie set, it is also an adventure destination , spanning some 1,600 hectares! Opt for an ATV or zipline tour or go horseback riding or e-biking through the lush, hilly landscapes.

If water sports are more your cup of tea, enquire about the Secret Island Beach Adventure for a day of canoeing, swimming, boat rides and fun. Kualoa Ranch is the perfect blend of adventure and pop culture and is easily one of the best things to do in Oahu.

Kualoa Ranch in Oahu

6 – Feel like a local at the Polynesian Cultural Center

Hawaii boasts a rich and unique culture which can be explored at the Polynesian Cultural Center, open from Monday to Saturday from 12:30 PM until 9 PM (closed on Wednesdays and Sundays). Explore the six villages , each representing a different Polynesian island: Hawaii, New Zealand, Fiji, Samoa, Tahiti and Tonga.

You can also attend luau celebrations , and a fascinating evening show . A highlight of the Polynesian Cultural Center is the evening luau show. A night of song, dance and feasting, join the buffet for dinner and marvel at the evening show, Hā: Breath of Life.

New additions have been added to the center in recent years, including the Hukilau Marketplace (for food and shopping) and the Polynesian Football Hall of Fame.

Polynesian Cultural Center tickets

7 – Spot the wildlife at the North Shore

The North Shore, a 45-minute drive from Honolulu, is an amazing destination for adventure and thrill seekers. Prepare yourself for ziplining , cliff jumping , surfing (Sunset Beach, Waimea Bay and Ehukai Beach all have epic breaks), and… shark diving !

While you’re on this side of the island you might as well explore some of the other attractions and things to do in Oahu. Don’t miss Waimea Valley for waterfalls, explore Haleiwa town and stop by the famous Japanese dessert stall, Matsumoto Shave Ice.

North Shore tours

8 – Try a local staple at the Dole Plantation

Dole Plantation, about a 45-minute drive north of Honolulu, offers some of the most mouth-watering pineapple and enjoyable activities for the entire family . Dole Plantation is open daily from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM (closed on Christmas Day).

With activities and attractions such as a train ride on the Lady Liberty or the Pineapple Express, a Plantation Garden Tour and the Pineapple Garden Maze there is loads to do for visitors of all ages.

If you’ve worked up an appetite, make sure to visit the Plantation Grill or go to the country store where you can buy all sorts of goodies, food and drinks that the plantation produces.

Dole Plantation tours

9 – Take a photo of the Mokulua Islands

The Mokulua Islands, less than a mile off the mainland at Lanikai Beach, are some of Hawaii’s most photographed natural phenomena. The only way to reach the isles is kayaking across from the beach, or via boat .

Many tours stop by the “Mokes”, as they are called by the locals, especially for snorkeling and diving . The uninhabited islands also provide amazing kayaking and surfing opportunities. Two famous breaks here are known as ‘Dogbowls’ and ‘Catbowls.’

Travel tip: You can also kayak to the islands launching from Kailua Beach.

Mokulua Islands tours

10 – Hike to the Manoa Waterfalls

The 45-meter cascading Manoa Falls can be reached by a dedicated trail, crossing boardwalks, wooden steps and natural paths. The total round-trip hike to Manoa Falls and back is 2.7 kilometers .

Take note, the walk to reach the waterfall is mostly uphill on the way in , returning downhill on the way back. During the rainy season, the trails become slippery, so take caution and plan accordingly.

While it makes a picture-perfect backdrop, swimming in the pools below is typically discouraged due to falling rocks from the mountainside. Despite this, the area’s hiking trails , picnic areas , and panoramic views are nothing short of extraordinary.

Manoa Waterfalls tours

11 – Snorkel in the aptly-named Turtle Canyon

Turtle Canyon is a prime spot for swimming with Hawaii’s gorgeous green sea turtles. Sign up for a snorkeling adventure to Turtle Canyon, which departs from around Oahu at different times of day and lasts between two to three hours .

Hop on board of a luxury catamaran (or private boat) in Honolulu and set sail for the calm waters of Turtle Canyon, home to thousands of green turtles and other vibrant marine life.

Gearing up into your snorkel set and hop into the ocean. Your tour guides on these expeditions are experts and know exactly where the turtles roam, so you’re guaranteed to spot these magnificent ancient creatures . Maybe you’ll also spot whales, octopuses or dolphins!

Turtle Canyon tours

12 – Race against the clock in an Escape Room

Fan of escape games? Make your way to The Escape Game in Honolulu and choose from six different themes : a prison, a submarine, a gold mine, a fourth grade classroom, a mysterious market, or an art heist.

These games are designed to be epic for everyone – from the experienced gamer to the newbie who’s never played. Each experience is thrilling, family-friendly, and a guaranteed good time!

Escape rooms in Honolulu

13 – Admire the Honolulu street art

If you’re looking for lesser known things to do in Oahu, or, more specifically, things to do in Honolulu , look no further. A street art tour, led by a knowledgeable local, provides travelers with a chance to experience an untampered, authentic side of the island .

Starting in Waikiki (then onto other areas and attractions close by to Honolulu), your first point of interest is Kaka‘ako district, renowned as a creative hub in Honolulu and home to some serious street art. Other stops along a street art tour include the SALT shopping complex, the Honolulu Night Market, Magic Island, Ala Moana Beach Park and Ala Wai Yacht Harbor, to name a few.

Creative souls itching for more like-minded activities, consider an Instagram and street art tour to be shown the hidden island gems to make your socials POP.

street art tours in Oahu

14 – Take a Circle Island tour

Do you only have a couple of days in Oahu? You might want to consider a Circle Island tour, and as the name suggests, it takes tourists full circle around Oahu .

These tours take the entire day and bring you to multiple attractions and iconic natural sites such as Diamond Head, Byodo-In Temple, Dole Plantation, Pali Lookout, Hanauma Bay, Waimea Falls and Halona Blowhole.

There are many Circle Island tours to choose from, for different types of travelers. If there is something you want to see, check prior to booking your exact Circle Island tour to ensure your package covers it. With hassle-free pickup and drop-off arrangeable from your hotel, it’s a no-brainer for outdoor enthusiasts.

Circle Island tours in Oahu

15 – Go sailing at sunset

Oahu boasts many beautiful places to catch the sunset, but the best spot is undoubtedly from the ocean. There are many oceanic sunset tours to choose from.

Looking for something romantic? Choose a sunset sail where you can indulge in excellent food and a glass (or three) of your favorite wine, while listening to live music. If you’re traveling with friends a sunset cocktail cruise on luxury catamaran might be the best option. Dance to the beats of the live DJ while traveling from Waikiki to Diamond Head.

Looking for something extra authentic? Sail into the setting sun on a wooden traditional Polynesian canoe and partake in cultural activities along the journey for the true spirit of Hawaii.

boat tours in Oahu

16 – Join a glass-bottom boat tour in Waikiki

Want to see first-hand all of Hawaii’s vibrant sea life but don’t want to get wet? Opt for a glass bottom boat tour, one of the most fun things to do in Waikiki ! As you cruise over tropical reefs, keep an eye out below you for the region’s famous green sea turtles, dolphins , and schools of all kinds of fish .

If you’re looking for an extra special experience, why not upgrade to a package that includes an all-you-can-eat buffet?

Couples, you might want to consider a sunset glass-bottom tour, adding a magical touch. These special tours are under two hours and depart from Waikiki-side in the southern part of Oahu.

17 – Learn to surf or go hunting the bombs!

Oahu is arguably the surf capital of the world. What better place to try your hand at this sport yourself? White Plains Beach and Haleiwa Beach Park are great spots for beginners.

Iconic spots for more seasoned surfers are Pipeline (officially Banzai Pipeline), showing off some of the biggest barrels ever known, Rocky Point, Backdoor, Waimea Bay and Canoes , among plenty others.

Whether you’re after private, semi-private, or group lessons (or just renting your own board), and regardless of if you’re a seasoned pro or a complete newbie, there’s a swell suitable for everyone.

surf lessons in Oahu

18 – Swim with sharks

A shark-diving experience is only for the bravest of brave. Go to the North Shore and cruise out into the ocean via boat, with your snorkel gear close by. Descend into the submerged cage and admire the sheer size of these Galapagos sharks and sandbar sharks.

While the thought of coming close to a shark for some sends shivers down the spine, the thalassophiles among us might be intrigued to know that there are also cageless shark-diving experiences in Oahu .

Safety, of course, is also the utmost priority.

shark diving in Oahu

19 – Soar over the island with a helicopter tour

The best way to see what Oahu (and its neighboring islands) has to offer, is from above. Step inside a helicopter and admire the geographical diversity, with lush forests, towering volcanoes, built-up resort towns, and endless coastline. This is a great option for travelers with limited time, as flights range from between 20-30 minutes to one hour .

Depending on the type of tour you choose, some of the landmarks to fly over are Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, Koko Crater Botanical Garden, Nu’uanu Pali, Kualoa Ranch, Bellows Field Beach Park and many more.

Simply choose your ideal duration and location, buckle up, and enjoy the panoramic views on offer from thousands of feet up! An unparalleled endeavor is to choose an open-door helicopter tour where the aircraft doors stay open during the flight — this is especially a great option for photographers.

helicopter tours in Oahu

20 – Go whale-watching!

A perfect activity for the whole family , a whale-watching adventure takes travelers off the mainland and into the heart of Mother Nature’s nearby shores, where not only seasonal whales but also dolphins jump up to say hello.

From December through to April , thousands of humpbacks make the journey to the warm Hawaiian waters and Waianae Coast (on the west side of Oahu) is a renowned location for whale-spotting. Your guide will show you the best positions for seeing these glorious sea creatures close up.

With a few whale-watching expeditions to embark on, decide on sailing a luxury catamaran, or an inflatable speed boat led by a team of marine biologists, lifeguards and a knowledgeable local crew.

whale watching in Oahu

21 – Zipline above lush foresty

Ziplining is one of the most exciting adventures on the island. Choose between options ranging from 152 meters to 730 meters long through the vast amount of jungle surrounding Oahu.

One of the most popular spots for ziplining is Coral Crater Adventure Park. Choose between the six ziplines, suitable for all ages. They also offer tandem zipline glides with a guide for the super young kiddies.

Kualoa Ranch’s ziplining adventures is another destination that’s hard to beat. Besides rappelling at high speeds over lush jungle (including over Jurassic Park), experiences can also feature ATV riding, a farm visit, sky bridges, boardwalks, and plenty more.

Zipline in Oahu

22 – Embark on a dolphin-watching trip

Those looking for an up close and personal encounter with dolphins, are spoilt for choice. Join one of the many dolphin-watching trips, usually lasting around three hours , to the western region of Oahu along the Leeward Coast for the best chance to see dolphins.

These half-day tours typically include two snorkeling stops, snacks, and transit to and from the mainland. If you’re looking for a longer adventure, book a dolphin-watching and snorkeling day trip which includes lunch on board.

dolphin watching in Oahu

23 – Gallop along the beach with a horse riding adventure

There’s no better way to experience the sights, sounds, and smells of Hawaii than on the back of a trusty steed across a mix of sandy trails and open grazing fields. With tours ranging from one to three hours in length, there’s an option to fit into any traveler’s itinerary.

Are you here on your honeymoon? Consider a private horseback ride along a mountain trail for just you and your darling with the sun setting in the background… Equestrians, there are also advanced trails available involving trickier terrains and space for cantering and controlled trotting.

For beginners and families with children , the North Shore Stables are a great destination.

horse riding in Oahu

24 – Sign up for a bike tour

Explore the island by bike during a half-day or full day tour . Choose between city tours which take you past tourist sites and attractions, or tours around the island. Opt for an e-bike or an old-fashioned bike and let a local guide you around the island, sharing his knowledge and recommendations with you.

Whether you want to visit Historic Honolulu, Kualoa Ranch, Manao Valley or any of the other tourist-favorite destinations, there is a tour for everyone.

Foodies, take note! There are specific Hawaiian food tours by bike . Between five to six stops, uncover local secrets from ingredients to dining hot spots.

bike tours in Oahu

25 – Parasail over the brilliant shoreline

Oahu is undoubtedly best viewed from above. Head to Waikiki Beach for a ten-minute parasailing adventure and admire the sparkling coastline, towering volcanoes and seemingly never-ending forests.

Don’t worry if you’ve never parasailed before. You’ll ride tandem with an experienced instructor riding tandem, so you can just relax enjoy the panoramic views!

It’s considered safer than paragliding as you’re secured all the time, and you have the option of choosing how high you’d like to fly in the sky.

parasailing in Oahu

26 – Try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding

Stand-up paddleboarding is one of the most popular ways to explore the historic Anahulu stream in Haleiwa, the home of the Green Hawaiian sea turtles.

There are options for all kinds of travelers. Sign up for a regular evening SUPing adventure or try out SUP yoga at night!

Don’t worry if you’ve never tried stand-up paddleboarding before, all experiences include a brief lesson on how to use the paddleboard, and balance yourself using the paddle. However, this does not apply when you’ve only just rented a SUP board.

stand up paddle in Oahu

27 – Ride through Jurassic Park on an ATV

Get your heart pumping while exploring Oahu’s heavy forestry on a quad bike! Head to Kualoa Ranch , the location of none other than Hollywood’s very own Jurassic Park and one of the most popular places for ATV rides.

Or go to Coral Crater Adventure Park , where you can partake in an off-road quad expedition. Traveling with a small group or a family? Opt for an ATV cruise along Waialua’s beachfront and a local farm. The kids will love this one!

ATV tours in Oahu

28 – Step into a traditional outrigger canoe

The most authentic away to explore Waikiki’s pristine coastline is by traditional outrigger canoe , Hawaiian boats that have been in use for centuries. Sign up for a tour and get the chance to snorkel, explore nearby islands, learn all about local culture, and listen to Hawaiian music.

Hop into a canoe attached with an outrigger and use an oar to paddle. Thanks to the attachment, the ride is ten times more stable, which allows riders to easily maneuver waves, as well as ride them.

canoeing tours in Oahu

29 – Feed the soul on a food tour!

Try some of the richest and unique flavors across the entire United States during an Oahu food tour. These tours usually last three hours , but there are also full-day excursions available. Whatever you may choose, you will get the opportunity to sink your teeth into Loco moco, Laulau or the state’s famous Poi.

Food tour options are plentiful, and a few combine sightseeing with feasting. Fans of The Great Food Truck Race, prepare your line of foodie-related questions when booking a tour with winner of the reality show, and food host, Lanai Tabura. Trek to local farms, plantations and a local poke shop, all the while learning directly from the master himself.

Other options guide you to a chocolate factory, famous bakeries and shrimp shacks, for example.

food tours in Oahu

30 – Experience a must-see Luau show

Seeing a colorful, high-energy Luau show is one of the essential things to do in Oahu! Experience a taste of local traditions through a live Luau performance (usually lasting around two hours ), and the shows are centered around Hawaiian tales and folk stories.

In Hawaii, the term ‘lūʻau’refers to a traditional celebration involving food, song, dance and fire performances . Back in ancient times, the king and townsfolk would gather together to celebrate with one big, lively and lavish feast.

Today, there are multiple places to catch a Luau show in Oahu. Pick a show that’s most convenient for you. You can also enjoy a longer experience (around four hours) by adding on a buffet dinner or you can combine a show with a full-day excursion for the best bang for your buck.

Luau shows in Oahu

31 – Try beach or sunset yoga on the Waikiki oceanfront

Oahu is the perfect feel-good tropical paradise to zen out and enjoy an activity like yoga. Classes last between one and 1.5 hours and are suitable for all levels . There is no need to bring a yoga mat as they are provided (unless you prefer to bring your own).

Travel to Waikiki Beach for a yoga class where you get to slow down and soak in the blissful sunset. Or head to Kalākaua Avenue overlooking the ocean, where the classes are a mixture of Vinyasa and Power Yoga. Another popular spot for outdoor group yoga classes is by Magic Island (a 10-minute drive from Waikiki if this is where you’re staying).

yoga classes in Oahu

32 – Pamper yourself with a massage or spa day

Craving some pure relaxation? Why not head to one of the many spas on the island to completely unwind. There are plenty of notable day spas to choose from.

The Naupaka Spa & Wellness Centre at the Four Seasons Resort offers gorgeous views and treatments outdoors, right on the ocean, or indoors in the wellness center. Sound healing is available here too.

Moana Lani Spa is another location you cannot beat, and as your body starts to relax, enjoy the views and sounds of the sea right in front of you. Plus, it’s at the iconic Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa, Waikiki Beach.

Private, luxurious and listed on Forbes, the Kahala Spa combines ancient healing traditions used in Hawaii, as well as parts of Asia.

While spas are plentiful in and around Oahu, Mandara Spa at Hilton Hawaiian Village is another world-class option to consider.

spas in Oahu

33 – Join an Oahu submarine scooter adventure

A submarine scooter takes visitors below the surface in a unique oxygen suit and within arm’s length of green sea turtles and schools of tropical fish. This diving experience doesn’t require a PADI license, which means it’s suitable for everyone .

These adventures sail passengers out into the ocean, and from the boat, you’ll gear up and get exploring. Riding along the ocean bed on a self-propelled electric scooter, take underwater photos as you zoot along comfortably and can breathe under the deep blue.

Before boarding, a short lesson is provided. With common locations, including Diamond Head Crater and Maunalua Bay, native marine life is abundant.

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34 – Play a round at a world-class golf course

Oahu is an ideal destination for golfers , whether you’re a seasoned player, an intermediate golfer or a beginner. Scattered around the island, there’s a plethora of golf courses to choose from.

The beauty of the third hole at Mauna Kea Golf Course needs to be seen to be believed; Hapuna ’s backdrop of the shimmering blue Pacific is nothing short of extraordinary, and the Arnold Palmer Course at Turtle Bay is arguably the gem of Oahu’s North Shore.

These make up just a sliver of the top-quality courses on offer, making Oahu a must-visit for any golf fan.

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35 – Book a table at a sunset & show cruise

With a heavenly three-course meal including fresh crab and juicy steak, plus live entertainment (the “60 Years of Aloha” spectacle) and pristine views from departure to docking, a sunset cruise is a wonderful activity for couples, families, or both !

Leaving from the pier near Aloha Tower Market Place in Honolulu just before golden hour hits, this magical sunset expedition lasts two hours out at sea. Snap photos of Oahu’s coast, try spotting dolphins, sip on a Mai Tai and watch the sky change color.

Hot tip: book a cruise on a Friday for a little extra excitement (fireworks and an additional hour of sailing).

36 – Sign up for a cooking class!

Would you like to learn how to make Loco moco, Laulau, Poke and Poi yourself? Then there’s only one thing to do: sign up for a cooking class! Led by experienced local chefs, you’ll be guided through every step of the way, from ingredient explanations to Hawaiian-style cooking technique demonstrations.

Learn how to recreate iconic staples like poke, coconut shrimp or deluxe musubis . Not only is a cooking class a delight for your tastebuds, but they’re also excellent social events (especially when the wine’s included!).

37 – Visit the Hawaiian Music Hall of Fame

Hawaiian Music Hall of Fame concert at Waikiki City Beach

Founded in 1994, the Hawaiian Music Hall of Fame celebrates the local music scene in Hawaii throughout the years , including some of its most famous composers and musicians.

Exhibitions include ‘The Royal Room’ (take a look at the country’s Golden Age of music) and ‘The Royal Four’ (David Kalakaua, William Leleiohoku, Lili`uokalani, and Miriam Likelik) who played an important role in the music world and performing arts in the 1800s.

The Royal Room also offers classes to learn the Hawaiian art of feather work, such as making a flower out of feathers and more.

38 – Go behind the scenes on a ‘Hawaii Five-0’ TV tour

By now, you’ve probably realized that this island is host to bunches of film and tv show sets, and the Hawaii Five-0 series is a classic example.

Fans of the show can sign up for a Hawaii Five-0 tour, which takes them to places where the show was filmed , such as Hawaii Film and Sound stage and McGarrett’s House (the iconic Oahu Bayer Estate). Get the chance to even meet one of the members of the cast !

A sit-down lunch and hotel pick-up are also included, so all you need to do is go with the flow and enjoy the day!

39 – Ride a jet ski!

What better place than Hawaii to go jet skiing? Wherever you’re staying on Oahu, a jet ski rental facility is never too far away . Never been on a jet ski before? Book a jet skiing experience to learn the ropes before you hit the water. Rides last around 30 minutes and you can opt to ride the jet ski solo or as two.

A popular location for jet skiing in Oahu is down at Maunalua Bay, thanks to its calmer waters in comparison to some of the other beaches with roaring barrels.

jet ski in Oahu

40 – Spend an afternoon at the Bishop Museum

Bishop Museum is Hawaii’s largest museum dedicated to the history of both the archipelago and the ocean in which it sits. It is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM and tickets cost $33.95 for adults and $25.95 for children ages 4 to 17.

The museum was originally founded in 1889 and was owned by Charles Reed Bishop, husband of Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop. It acted as a space to store their royal heirlooms and special Hawaiian artifacts.

Once converted into a fully public space, it acquired more national treasures from the North Pacific region which deck the gallery hallways. Today, marvel over thousands of historical items and collectibles through the different exhibitions and unravel Hawaiian art, legends and gods.

The museum rooms are themed to make navigation easier. For example, visit the Hawaiian Hall or the Pacific Hall. Other interesting spaces include the Picture Gallery, Abigail Kinoiki Kekaulike Kāhili Room and the Richard T. Mamiya Science Adventure Center (be sure to check out the live lava demonstration!). There is also a planetarium.

Bishop Museum tickets

41 – Take a gyroplane flight

gyroplane flight over Oahu’s North Shore

Experience the thrill of a lifetime as you soar over the stunning North Shore of Oahu on a gyroplane flight . Book a 30-minute session for $249 per person and get ready to take control of the aircraft as you explore the island’s breathtaking landscapes from a whole new perspective.

With its unique design and open-air cockpit, the gyroplane is both reliable and fun, combining the best of helicopter and airplane technology.

42 – Take a Ukulele Lesson

Try your hand at playing the ukelele, smaller than a guitar and with fewer strings and therefore easier to play for first-timers.

Visit The Ukulele Store , located close to Diamond Head, where you can not only buy ukeleles but also partake in one of their free daily lessons! The owner and teacher, Tyler Gilman, descendant from a traditional musical Honolulu family, has toured and led workshops around the world.

43 – Explore a local farm

There are plenty of tour options available to visit Hawaiian farmland — including zipline farm tours, farm-to-table lunch experiences , hiking tours , or trolley tours — there’s an itinerary to suit every style of traveler.

Some of the island’s most well-known and top-producing farms to visit are Tropical Farms specializing in Macadamia nuts since 1987, Dole Plantation (the island’s top pineapple producers), as well as Kahuku Farms .

At charming places like the Menehune Enterprises Farm or Tsue’s Farm, visitors have a chance to give back to the community by learning about local agriculture and getting down and dirty for a couple of hours.

Hawaiian Farms tours in Oahu

44 – Wander through Queen Emma’s Summer Palace

As the former summer retreat for Queen Emma of Hawaii and a longstanding Hawaiian icon, this incredible 19th-century landmark now houses an educational museum , focusing largely on the history of the royals.

Built in 1847, the royal princess, her husband and their son occupied the abode in the summer months from 1857 to 1885. Its location within the lush Nu‘uanu Valley provided the royals with a cooler escape.

Touring the palace, have a gander over Queen Emma’s antiques, personal belongings and royal regalia . Original furniture decorates the interiors, and the palace, its collectibles and finishings are the museum.

45 – Check out the Hawaii Army Museum Society

Hawaii Army Museum Society, Oahu, Hawaii

A former WWII battery that was transformed into an educational space in 1976, the Hawaii Army Museum Society is an absolute must-see for anyone interested in the history of war or the military. The museum is located at Fort Derussy Park in Honolulu inside the Battery Randolph and admission is completely free !

Aiming to shed knowledge and light on Hawaii’s military heritage, there are multiple themed exhibits to investigate. ‘Hawaiian Warfare’, ‘Hawaii On Defense’, ‘Hawaiʻi’s Japanese Americans’ and ‘The Vietnam War’ are a few examples of some that deck the halls.

With genuine army vehicles (you can’t miss the helicopter) plus uniforms , weapons , artifacts , and plenty more on display, it’s a great way to spend a couple of hours out of the sun.

46 – Admire the sea life at the Waikiki Aquarium

A wondrous activity for young and old , the Waikiki Aquarium boasts the title of the second-oldest public aquarium in the United States (behind New York), opening originally in 1904.

With both an outdoor section and an indoor one, the center showcases monk seals, tropical fish, sharks, jellyfish, and plenty more . Over the years, the facilities have been renovated and maintained, and modern amendments have been added to their features.

There is also a range of ocean plants and varying seaweed to see and the Waikiki Aquarium is a member of the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation. Before you leave, make sure to check out the Edge of the Reef exhibit.

47 – Learn how royals lived at Washington Place

Washington Place offers tours explaining the history of the house and stories of its former residents — including both royals and governors. Make sure to visit on Thursday mornings when you get the possibility to join a free tour.

Back in 1841, the home was originally built for an American trader, Captain John Dominis and completed by 1846. After the captain’s ship went missing, his family finally rented out rooms in the gorgeous home, and thanks to its design, attracted many affluent guests.

Later on, it was utilized by government officials. However, it wasn’t sailors nor bureaucrats that left their mark at Washington Place as much as Queen Lili`uokalani did. The queen lived here for 55 years until she was arrested in her home in 1895.

Walk around the tropical gardens, and then head inside the home-turned-museum to view its collection of artwork and artifacts including paintings, furniture, china and silverware as well as historical objects.

48 – Get cultured at the Hawaii State Art Museum

Learn more about both modern and traditional Hawaiian art when visiting the Hawaii State Art Museum . Admire sculptures, paintings and rotating special exhibits, which specifically feature current modern artists from the 21st century.

Shortened to just HiSAM, the museum is on the second floor of the No. 1 Capitol District Building. On the ground floor of the building is a sculpture garden worth visiting at the same time.

49 – Learn about Hawaiian heritage at the Iolani Palace

As the home of Hawaii’s last reigning monarchs , Iolani Palace holds a special place in local Hawaiian culture. The Palace is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 9 AM to 4 PM and can be visited by booking one of the tours, all lasting 60 to 90 minutes.

Witness how royalty lived, dined and celebrated life as you walk the grand hallways, tour the rooms, such as the Throne Room, Blue Room, Music Room, etc., and meander through the exterior palace grounds — including a lavish garden. Gander at furniture, glassware, silverware, military accessories and clothing, works of art, historic photos and more for a dip into the past.

The Palace was originally built in 1882 by King Kalakaua, and was later home to his sister, Queen Liliuokalani, who continued his reign. The grand rooms and their furnishings remain untouched, comprising the museum itself.

50 – Step back in time at the Hawaii Plantation Village

A trip to this outdoor museum is considered one of the best things to do in Oahu. Head to Waipahu and visit this recreated village that boasts more than 25 restored buildings, plantation structure replicas, an infirmary, a bathhouse, and a botanical garden.

A trip to the Hawaii Plantation Village is a fantastic time to divulge into ethnicities and cultures that have landed on Hawaiian shores and called the island home, such as Japanese, Chinese, Korean, Okinawan, Filipino, Portuguese and Puerto Ricans. From 1850 to 1950, sugar plantations ruled the islands in their ten folds and many local villages’ lives revolved around the plantations.

Whilst sugar crops grew in natural abundance, immigrants landing in Hawaii bought with them their own plants to grow. During a tour around the cultural village, sample some of these fruits, for example.

51 – Visit the Honolulu Museum of Art

The Honolulu Museum of Art is one of the most popular museums and houses the largest art collection in the state. It is open on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays from 10 AM to 6 PM and on Fridays and Saturdays from 10 AM to 9 PM . Tickets cost $25 for adults and children ages 18 and younger can enter for free .

The museum, founded in 1922, is located 5 to 10 minutes driving distance from other hotspots such as the Iolani Palace and the Hawaii State Art Museum.

When first founded, the museum had a heavy focus on Chinese textiles and ceramics but grew across all art categories over the years. The gallery now houses more than 50,000 artworks and items from Asia, America and across Europe . You will see works from renowned artists such as Hokusai, Van Gogh, Gauguin, Monet, Picasso, and Warhol .

Feeling inspired? At the museum, let your inner creative free and try an art class. There are both adult and youth art classes available like drawing, painting, ceramics, metal work and fiber art .

52 – Spend a day exploring the Waimea Valley

The Waimea Valley stretches from the mountains to the sea and hosts a variety of events, plus a selection of blissful flora and fauna, stunning waterfalls , and hiking trails ! One of the highlights is a 12-meter tall waterfall called Waimea Falls.

Enjoy a special history walk, led by the garden’s dedicated and passionate expert guides who work at the Valley, and don’t miss the one-of-a-kind garden that focuses on the “evolution of the Hibiscus” flower.

The lands surrounding Waimea Valley are quite sacred too, and as soon as you enter, you can sense a feeling of spirituality in the air. Back in ancient times, the land around here was chosen for the islands’ Kahuna Nui (High Priests) who lived in these parts. Hence, its local nickname; “The Valley of the Priests.”

53 – Go fishing!

Choose from half-day or full-day experiences , public or private, and prepare to reel in plenty of mahi-mahi, ono, tuna, and Pacific blue marlin, during these exciting adventures. Whether you’re a total newbie or a seasoned veteran, these experiences led by knowledgeable captains, are an exciting day out.

Traveling with the family? Bring the whole crew and opt for a two-hour fishing charter out at sea. If your kids haven’t found their sea legs yet, there are shoreline fishing experiences (in the North Shore) available too.

fishing charters in Oahu

54 – Dive beneath the surface on an Atlantis submarine

Want to get up close and personal with green sea turtles, sharks, yellow tangs, and eels? Then head to Waikiki Beach and board either Atlantis’ 48-passenger or 64-seater submarine and descend 30 meters beneath the surface of the ocean, where the marine ecosystems dazzle, delight, and amaze.

Discover shipwrecks or airplanes (that have crashed during natural disasters) lying on the bottom of the ocean’s floor, or ancient structures in the shape of pyramids hinting at forgotten lands…

Operating since 1988, the Atlantis submarine is officially the world’s largest, and ocean warriors, the submarines are completely battery-powered, emitting zero pollutants into the sea.

Atlantis submarine tours in Oahu

55 – Go skydiving

Nothing quite gets the heart racing and the blood pumping than freefalling from over 3,600 meters above the ground at break-neck speeds of 190 kilometers per hour during an exhilarating skydiving adventure!

Admire the pristine coastline, deep blue waters, and lush green forest of Oahu from above. Don’t worry if you’ve never jumped out of a plane before. All of the skydiving experiences at Skydive Hawaii are tandem jumps, accompanied by one of their licensed, professional USPA instructors.

Before even leaving the ground, a short instruction demo is given. There are three types of freefalling exits available, depending on the heights you can stomach. Exit from 12,000 feet (3,657 meters) in the sky, a little higher at 14,000 feet (4,267 meters), or from the highest tandem skydive exit in Hawaii from a whopping 20,000 feet (6,096 meters).

56 – Soar above Honolulu in a glider

Admire the beautiful scenery of the North Shore, the shimmering Oahu shores and sometimes-visible whales from a traditional glider . This is different from the usual airplane, as it doesn’t have an engine but uses natural forces to rise and float in the sky.

Head to a once-used Air Force base, Honolulu Soaring is in the North Shore, pick your glider and get ready to soar above the waters in a Bird of Paradise – N5761, or swoop the horizons in the Sky Surfer.

In operation since 1970, you could say they’re trusted professionals. With a friendly, professional pilot taking the joystick, all you have to worry about is snapping those selfies. If you’re after a little more adventure, ask for the aerobatic flight option.

57 – Get toe-tappin at Blue Note Hawaii

Blue Note is often considered one of the world’s best jazz clubs . Head to Honolulu and prepare for a night to remember of live entertainment in the performing arts, from jazz sessions to comedy shows.

Lookout for the Local Comedy Showcase evenings, or international acts like Billy Ocean and famed band from the 70s, Hiroshima.

Check the event calendar to see what tickles your fancy (but honestly, it’s all incredible), and be sure to taste the Blue Note Hawaii Martini while you’re there. On that note, there is an on-site restaurant with dining options inspired by flavors of the Pacific Rim.

Blue Note Hawaii tickets

58 – Satisfy the cravings at one of many shrimp trucks

No matter where you’re staying in Oahu, a garlic shrimp truck is never too far away. Now considered a staple tourist must-have , the street food craze only started in the 70s and was invented by a food truck on the Kamehameha Highway.

Gaining massive popularity, soon more locals started to follow suit, such as Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck (home of one of the best scampi shrimp plates on the island), Romy’s Kahuku Prawns & Shrimp (always busy, for a good reason!) and Big Wave Shrimp (offers noteworthy staple dishes and steak and short rib plates).

59 – Hike the Koko Crater Arch at sunrise

This hike might only be two kilometers in distance, but during the two hours it takes to complete, you’ll rise some 368 meters in elevation along an abandoned railroad trail. Embark on your adventure early in the day to watch the sunrise and to avoid the sweltering heat.

While the hike, which features over 1000 steps , is certainly challenging (most of the climb is uphill), the views at the end — unobstructed vistas from the top of Koko Head Crater of Hanauma Bay, Honolulu and Moloka’i — are worth it.

Some travelers confuse the Koko Head Crater trail with Koko Crater Arch — they are separate hikes at different locations. Lastly, while you’re in the area, stop by the Koko Crater Botanical Garden.

Koko Head Crater trail in Oahu

60 – Watch the Waikīkī Beach Friday night fireworks

Every Friday night , the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort puts on a glorious firework display … an island tradition since 1988! The display kicks off at 8 PM on the beachfront of the resort in Waikiki, but lucky for all, the colorful show can be seen lighting the night sky across the island.

There are different ways to experience the fireworks, like a city tour ending with the display, or from a boat out at sea. Couples in Oahu, you might want to consider the latter.

Best viewed from South Oahu’s glimmering ocean , travelers love soaking in the sights while on a romantic dinner cruise aboard a luxury catamaran. Singles, the island has you back. Book a BYOB (bring your own booze) Friday night fireworks cruise.

fireworks experiences in Oahu

61 – Watch the cliff divers at Spitting Cave

The Spitting Cave of Portlock in Honolulu offers a great view of the ocean (and whales in the colder months) with a calming air to soak it all in. However, if you’re after thrills, Spitting Cave has a special secret: cliff jumping .

The cliffs drop down about 20 meters into the water, although be aware of the risks and make sure to watch the professionals jump before even considering doing so yourself.

Smashing against the cliff sides, the powerful currents are known to pull jumpers inside the caves, so, be warned!

62 – Visit the Byodo-In Temple

The Byodo-In Temple , in the Valley of the Temples Memorial Park, serves as a Buddhist temple with short paths to wander and ample spots for calming meditation. Walk between koi ponds, waterfalls and budding flora and fauna.

The temple was established in 1968 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the first Japanese immigrants to Hawaii, and was inspired by the Byodoin Temple in Uji in Japan.

Head inside the main temple hall to find the striking gold sitting Amid Buddha, reaching nearly three meters tall. At the Bell House, discover the significant brass Bon-sho (Sacred Bell).

63 – Dig into an acai bowl

Visit one of the best places for an acai bowl and indulge in this popular breakfast food.

Da Cove Health Bar near Diamond Head is a crowd favorite for students; the Acai Monkey at Lanikai Juice offers a special peanut butter twist, and the bowls at the Heavenly Island Lifestyle cafe in Honolulu are as visually appealing as they are scrumptious!

64 – Scuba dive through shipwrecks

Hawaii not only offers the chance to scuba with turtles, sharks and vibrant fish, you can also see a range of famous shipwrecks. Join a three hour diving excursion , led by a professional, and see infamous sunken vessels like the YO-257, San Pedro, and the Korean Sea Tiger fishing vessel.

The instructors help guide divers to the wrecks, and provide some background and history pertaining to each dive site. Not only limited to shipwreck explorations, there are loads more scuba diving expeditions to choose from in Oahu.

Seasoned divers, consider a special night-time scuba diving tour, or if you’re new to scuba, book a five-hour beginner’s tour. Learn and practice the basics before you head into the waters around Magic Island lagoon.

scuba diving in Oahu

65 – Visit the Kaniakapupu Ruins

Tucked away in the middle of a lush bamboo forest, the Kaniakapupu Ruins is the highlight of a short but popular hiking trail not too far from Honolulu. There’s also a beautiful waterfall (Luakaha Falls) at the end, but make sure to wear waterproof shoes!

Locally referred to as the ‘King Kamehameha III summer home’, the residency was built from stone. Run your hands over parts of the structures that have remained here since its earliest day in 1845.

Explorers who love to wander off the beaten path, the site feels worlds away from anything else. Sadly, to visit the Kaniakapupu Ruins you will first need permission. To gain access, get in touch with the Oʻahu office of the Division of Forestry and Wildlife for a free permit. This has been imposed in an effort to protect the area and the historical site.

66 – Feel the thrill of a jetpack ride!

A 15-minute jetpack ride is the closest thing to walking on water. Thanks to the water-powered jetpack strapped onto your back, you get propelled up to 9 meters high in the sky !

As one of the world’s most popular and exciting new water sports, visitors from near and far are making beelines for jetpack rental outlets. Maunalua Bay is the place to be for the water sport.

Before the ride, you will receive instructions on exactly how to use, control and steer the pack. Once you’re ready, a boat takes you out into the water from where the action happens! Besides the thrill of the activity, you’ll also be greeted by excellent views of the coastline, Koko Crater, and the Ko’olau Range mountains.

67 – Cool of with some Waiola Shave Ice

If locals aren’t enjoying an acai bowl, they’re keeping cool with a traditional and simple cone of shave ice . Even though it’s become a staple Hawaiian dessert, the sweet treat originates from Japan and was brought over by immigrants in the 19th century.

What sets the dessert apart is the ice is finely shaved, and not made with crushed ice. After shaven, it’s topped with a sweet, flavored syrup. Ask any Honolulu resident: there’s no joint more famous for a dessert than Waiola Shave Ice .

While it’s a little off the beaten path it’s definitely worth the extra time to get there! Plus, if it’s good enough for Chrissy Teigen, John Legend and their fam (who recently visited the dessert shop in April 2022), it’s good enough for us!

68 – Try the Malasadas at Leonard’s Bakery

Make sure to stop by Leonard’s Bakery to try malasadas (a hole-less Portuguese-style doughnut coated in sugar) and malasada puffs (puffs filled with a delicious custard center).

This treat, originally from Portugal, made it’s way to Oahu thanks to an influx of travelers from Madeira and the Azores who brought xith them traditions from their homeland, like the beloved malasadas.

The warm, fresh, and tasty treats are ever-popular with locals and tourists alike, and a must-try for any foodies visiting Oahu. Also stocking other baked goods from breads to cookies, you won’t leave Leonard’s empty-handed.

69 – Meet the locals at the Kaka’ako Farmers’ Market

Held every Saturday in the heart of Honolulu from 8 AM to 12 PM , the Kaka’ako Farmers’ Market — thanks to its fresh produce, friendly locals, and unique vendors and souvenirs — is a surefire hit for travelers.

Foodies will particularly enjoy this activity as you get a glance into the local food scene and what the farmers and producers in the area are growing. Naturally, enjoy free samples as you walk from one stall to the next.

The fantastic thing about a farmer’s market is a) the freshness of goods and b) the types of foods you get to see. If these types of markets are your vibe, there are more farmers markets in Oahu to stop by, such as Pearlridge Farmers Market, the KailuaTown Farmers Market and Kaka’ako Farmers Market.

70 – Stroll through botanical gardens

There are five gardens on Oahu scattered in different locations around the island that make up the official Honolulu Botanical Gardens system.

The Liliʻuokalani Botanical Garden , located in Honolulu, pays homage to native Hawaiian plants. The tranquil cascading waterfall running through it is a lovely touch. In downtown Honolulu, Foster Botanical Garden is where tropical trees show off within the 5-hectare space.

Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden , over in Kaneohe features plantings from major tropical regions around the world from Africa to Malaysia, grouped geographically, and you can camp here! Wahiawā Botanical Garden (dating back to 1930) in the middle of the island offers both self-guided and group tours through its 11 hectares of forested gardens. Lastly, Koko Crater Botanical Garden is within Koko Head, so combine this visit with a tour of the famed area.

71 – Swim and snorkel at Hanauma Bay

Considered the premier snorkeling destination in Oahu , Hanauma Bay is teeming with colorful sea life; warm, clear waters; shallow reefs, and terrific views. Families , particularly those with young children, love Hanauma Bay for its snorkeling , thanks to the calm, flat ocean in this part of Oahu.

Since this popular spot often gets busy as the day goes on (which makes parking a struggle), a guided experience is recommended — plus, that way, all the equipment, and transportation is included!

As a protected marine life conservation area and underwater park since 1967, continuous efforts are made in preserving the natural habitats and ecosystems here. After knowing this, its crystal clear waters, marine life and picturesque setting make total sense.

snorkeling tours in Oahu

72 – Walk the Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail

This popular walking trail, accessible for all ages, takes you to Makapu’u Point Lighthouse. The trail is flat for most parts, is about 3.7 kilometers long (round-trip) and takes just over one hour to complete.

To reach Makapu’u, trek past seaside cliffs with sprouts of green and ocean flora and fauna dotting the way, and when you peek the lighthouse, standing against a backdrop of magnificent ocean blue, it’s like a postcard.

Pick-up from Waikiki hotels is often included, and you’ll also be blessed with views of the Halona Blowhole and — if you’re lucky — humpback whales! Make it a solo activity or combine it with a day trip to Kailua Beach, either way, it’s a great adventure.

Makapu’u Lighthouse tours

73 – Visit the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific

National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, Oahu, Hawaii

A sobering experience that really opens up your eyes, this Honolulu-based public cemetery hosts over 34,000 graves . Located within a volcanic crater, known as the Punchbowl Crater, the cemetery was built to honor the lives of veterans that served in the US Armed Forces.

Hot tip: follow the road to the top where fantastic views of Honolulu await.

74 – Hike up Diamond Head

A saucer-shaped crater that formed nearly 300,000 years ago as the result of an enormous volcanic eruption, Diamond Head now stands 232 meters tall above Honolulu, welcoming thousands of adventure-inclined tourists year after year.

It takes roughly one hour to get to the top and back — however, a good chunk is an inclined hike. Some level of fitness is needed to tackle this one. It’s recommended to start your hike up the Koʻolau Volcano early in the morning . Even by 10 AM, Oahu temperatures are high! The winter months do offer a reprieve from the heat.

Thanks to its unparalleled views at the top, it makes the uphill trek all the more worthwhile.

Diamond Head tours

75 – Shop till you drop in Honolulu!

Oahu has some fantastic shopping opportunities , particularly in and around Honolulu. Spews of boutique shops, outdoor complexes and malls selling fancy labels can be found around town.

If you’re staying near Kalakaua Avenue in Honolulu, you’ll quickly realize why tourists make a beeline for the Royal Hawaiian Center : with over 110 renowned retailers (from Jimmy Choo to Apple) as well as restaurants, and even rotating live entertainment, it’s a popular day out.

Also located down Kalakaua Avenue is the fancy Waikiki Shopping Plaza , home to the latest fashion, cosmetic brands and trend-setting boutiques, and a great dining selection with flavors from around the world.

On the other hand, near the beaches of Ala Moana, you’ll find the open-air Ala Moana Center — an equally worthy shopping strip!

76 – See the giraffes at Honolulu Zoo

If you’re on the hunt for things to do in Oahu to entertain both kids and adults , the 17-hectare Honolulu Zoo is a great option. Located at the end of Waikiki (towards Diamond Head), the zoo showcases animals of all different walks of life: the park hosts over 64 reptile species, 38 mammals, and 160 different types of birds , with plenty of live feedings and educational shows throughout the day.

A public park before it officially opened as a public zoo in 1947, upgrades, facility changes, and modern features have been added over the decades.

Efforts at the zoo have been made to recreate scenes closest to the animals’ natural habitats. Some of these environments include the African Savanna, Asian and American Tropical Forests, and the Pacific Islands.

77 – Wander the streets of Chinatown

Complementing Hawaii’s long-standing, rich Polynesian culture, Oahu also plays host to a vibrant and eclectic Chinatown!

Covering a whopping 15 blocks in Honolulu , Chinatown offers a selection of markets (check out the Oahu Market on King Street), art galleries, theaters, gardens, and a temple .

Of course, the list of notable restaurants (visit Lucky Belly and Royal Kitchen) is second to none. Take photographs of interesting architecture, go hunting down shrines, taste delicious dim sum and shop between the stalls selling traditional goods, produce and trinkets.

78 – Explore Honolulu with a scavenger game

Get ready for a fast-tracked scavenger game around the city. This activity is suitable for all ages . If you are traveling with large groups, split into two teams and race one another and feel like you are competing in your very own Amazing Race — Oahu style!

With challenges to complete, riddles to solve, and an easy-to-use app running the show, a scavenger game not only takes you famous highlights and hidden gems, but also makes it fun and exciting all the way through!

(Iolani Palace, the King Kamehameha Statue, Aloha Tower, Waikiki beaches and waterfalls are some of the points of interest to expect, however, each scavenger game host differs.)

scavenger games in Oahu

79 – Spend the day at Sea Life Park

As a combination of a marine mammal park, bird sanctuary, and an aquarium , the ever-popular Sea Life Park has been welcoming and delighting visitors of all ages for many years now.

Thanks to the park’s conscious focus on education and conservation , in addition to the opportunity to get up close and personal with some of nature’s most beautiful creatures, it’s also a fascinating learning experience.

See green sea turtles (hatched babies are released back into the ocean annually), enjoy the Ka Moana Lu’au for a traditional luau evening show, shop the gift shops and boutiques, and on-site dining options are available.

Sea Life Park tickets

80 – All Aboard the Hawaiian Railway at Ewa Beach

As one of the most unique things to do in Oahu, the Hawaiian Railway flies under the radar on tourists’ bucket lists. Step aboard a vintage locomotive traveling from Ewa to Nanakuli and get ready for a 10 kilometer ride through sugar plantations, a “ghost town”, past viewpoints and with a stop off for ice cream.

Prior to boarding the train, there is a picnic area available for a light lunch, and passengers are free to bring food onboard too. Before or after the journey, meander around the historical displays at the station to witness restored locomotives. The Steam Locomotive – Ewa 1, built in 1890, and old freight carriages are a few of the railway station displays to visit in the outdoor exhibit.

As the only historic railroad on the island of Oahu, with a Toy Train Museum and plenty of narration along the two-hour trip, it’s a worthwhile half-day excursion.

81 – Join a Segway tour

Walking around hilly cities, such as the main towns around Oahu, can be tiresome. Sometimes, the most efficient and most enjoyable way to explore is on a segway. This is a fun and relaxing activity for the whole family , which lasts about two hours .

Segway tours operate through Honolulu’s historic area, Chinatown, Waikiki, and even along several beaches. You can also choose a ride outside of the town perimeters to spots like Diamond Head and Magic Island.

With multiple options to choose from, you can further specify your ride to your liking. Jump onto the two-wheeler hoverboard and discover the island sights around sunset hour.

It’s advised to wear comfortable, closed shoes. No flip-flops for safety reasons!

segway tours in Oahu

Traveling on a budget?

Bargain hunters, take note! If you’re planning your Oahu or Honolulu trip, the GO Oahu Card is a great option.

A GO Oahu Card provides discounts (often up to 55%) on multiple attractions and things to do in Oahu, including everything from museum entrance tickets to hiking tours, and visits to places like Pearl Harbor, the Polynesian Cultural Center, Dole Plantation, and plenty more!

Go Oahu Pass

Consider an airport transfer

You’re on vacation, after all, so why add unnecessary stress of finding a taxi or a shuttle bus last-minute?

Ditch the hassle and book an airport transfer in advance — not only will you save time and money (especially if traveling in a group), but you’ll also be greeted by a friendly local holding up a sign with your name on it!

airport transfers in Oahu

Where to stay?

Looking for somewhere to stay? Here are some of the best accommodation options on this beautiful island. Secluded and nestled far from the crowds, The Kahala Hotel and Resort is an elegant affair. Comfortably designed rooms and suites offer mountain or oceanic views.

Luxurious and trendy, you may never want to leave ‘ Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach . Wake up with the ocean on your doorstep, spend the day at the pool, and there are multiple delicious on-site restaurants.

Overlooking the sea and just a few moments away from it, check into the classy Halepuna Waikiki by Halekulani , complete with marble bathroom tops, sea-facing balconies and bright, floor-to-ceiling windows.

Away from the hustle and bustle and great for couples on an island-paradise vacay, check into the lovely The Khala Hotel & Resort renowned for its impeccable service.

From its positioning to interiors, the Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina lives up to expectations. Top-notch service, facilities, location and rooms … What more could you ask for?

Travelers that prefer to book apartment-type accommodation over hotels and resorts, The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach doesn’t disappoint. The modern suites have their own separate living room and kitchen, bathrooms and bedrooms.

Located down at the harbor, wake up to scenic settings and nautical paradise at Prince Waikiki .

In the heart of Waikiki, for travelers who are visually inspired and appreciate an aesthetically-pleasing stay, the Laylow, Autograph Collection is bright and ultra-cool.

Accommodating guests since 1901, book your stay in advance at the famous Moana Surfrider , A Westin Resort & Spa.

best hotels in Oahu

Where to go next?

Visiting other Hawaiian islands? Don’t miss our selections of things to do in Maui , things to do in Kauai , things to do on the Big Island , and our bucket list of the best things to do in Hawaii .

We hope you’ve enjoyed our selection of things to do in Oahu, Hawaii! If you have any other must-see suggestions in Oahu, feel free to let us know in the comments!

As always, happy travels!

20 Fun Things to Do in Hawaii with Kids in 2024

W ith so many fun things to do in Hawaii with kids, the Aloha State is one of the best destinations for a family-friendly vacation. Each of the Hawaiian islands is unique and offers an abundance of kid-friendly activities and accommodations for the best family vacation. Not sure which Hawaiian island to visit? Check out our list of things to do in Hawaii on Oahu, Maui, Kauai and Hawaii Island (Big Island).

Oahu is typically the easiest Hawaiian island to reach and the most affordable for family travel. It also has some of Hawaii’s best beaches for families. Rent a car to drive around the island and experience the many fun things to see and do on Oahu.

Hula lesson in Waikiki. Photo credit: Mimi Slawoff

1. Visit Honolulu’s Many Kid-Friendly Attractions

Honolulu is a bustling city with many family-friendly oceanfront resorts and attractions like the Honolulu Zoo , Waikiki Aquarium , Bishop Museum and Pearl Harbor . Plus, famous Waikiki Beach is one of the best places to learn to surf and paddle board.

2. Learn About Pearl Harbor

Pearl Harbor is the site of WWII’s 1941 bombing attack and home to the USS Arizona Memorial . Tickets for the 75-minute USS Arizona Memorial program are free. However, there’s a limited number available each day.

The program includes a short video (with actual attack footage) and a round-trip boat ride to the USS Arizona Memorial, located above the remains of the sunken ship. The ship is the final resting place for more than 1,000 men.

Since Pearl Harbor is one of Oahu’s top attractions, it’s strongly recommended that visitors make advanced reservations online at www.recreation.gov .

3. Hike on Diamond Head

There aren’t many places in the world where you can walk along a trail to the edge of a 300,000-year-old crater, but Diamond Head is one of them. A hiking trail leads to the summit for panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Honolulu.

SheBuysTravel Tip : To beat the heat and crowds, you should get an early start for this popular hike.

4. Snorkel at Hanauma Bay National Preserve

Located on the side of Koko Head, Hanauma Bay is about a 30-minute drive from Honolulu. With beautiful blue waters, Hanauma Bay is a great place to snorkel and see its 400 species of tropical fish and abundance of green sea turtles.

5. Polynesian Cultural Center

The Polynesian Cultural Center features six island villages representing Hawai‘i, Samoa, Tahiti, Tonga, Fiji and Aotearoa (New Zealand). At this Polynesian-themed park and living museum, you can learn about various traditions through interactive and hands-on activities. For example, learn to throw a wooden spear, paddle a canoe and cook like a Polynesian.

The center also has family-friendly luaus with a variety of traditional food like lomilomi salmon, chicken long rice and kalua pork. Note that no alcohol is served at this luau.

6. Book Exciting Adventures at Kualoa Ranch

The family-owned Kualoa Ranch offers many different types of tours sure to thrill adults and kids of all ages. Adventures include horseback riding, jungle expeditions, beach outings and visits to Hawaiian fish ponds.

7. Watch Surfers on the North Shore

The North Shore is the rustic and laid-back side of the island with legendary surf beaches and food trucks serving fresh fish tacos, shrimp and more. Take a surf lesson at Hans Hedemann Surf School or just watch the pros. Laniakea Beach is one of the best spots to see sea turtles sunbathing.

8. Eat Shave Ice in Haleiwa

This little surf town is home to boutiques, art galleries and restaurants. It’s also where you’ll find Matsumoto Shave Ice – one of the best places to enjoy the snow cone-style treat.

FIND PLACES TO STAY NEAR OAHU

Father and son surfing together along the Kaanapali beaches in Maui. Photo credit: Deb Steenhagen

Maui is a popular island for many reasons. It’s a developed island with stunning natural attractions. Kaanapali Beach is a resort area on the western shore of Maui and is home to a variety of beachfront hotels , great family-friendly restaurants , lots of free things to do with kids and beautiful sunsets.

9. Take a snorkel cruise to Molokini Crater

Enjoy a catamaran cruise to one of the best snorkel and scuba spots in Hawaii – Molokini Crater . The crescent-shaped crater is home to thousands of tropical fish, Hawaiian green sea turtles and other marine life. You can also take a whale watching boat tour to the area.

10. Visit the Maui Ocean Center

Kids of all ages will be impressed with the Maui Ocean Center ’s many exhibits. It features a 750,000-gallon Open Ocean exhibit with a 240-degree view acrylic tunnel, outdoor tide pools, turtle lagoon, living reef and daily presentations.

11. Spend a day on Haleakala

A dormant volcano, Haleakala sits at 10,023 feet above sea level. Catch a sunrise or sunset from the summit. Daytime views are also stunning. Note that it can be chilly at the top, so bring sweaters for everyone.

Don’t rush off the mountain without visiting two unique farms. At the Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm, you can walk through lavender fields. Nearby, the Surfing Goat Dairy Farm produces award-winning cheeses. On the kid-friendly tours, you’ll feed goats and sample cheese.

12. Drive on the Road to Hana

Pack the car with snacks and drinks for an incredible road trip. Get an early start to beat the crowds on this popular drive. The drive is just 52 miles long. But with 620 curves and 59 narrow bridges, it can take a few hours. Along the way, you’ll see waterfalls, black sand beaches and the charming town of Hana.

Pack essentials for land and ocean activities when visiting Hawaii. Photo credit: Mimi Slawoff

Kauai’s mountains and valleys are lush and green, flowing with waterfalls and rivers that are ideal for paddle boarding and kayaking. Other places to visit include Waimea Canyon, Poipu Beach and Hanalei Bay.

13. Horseback Riding at Princeville Ranch

Located on Kauai’s North Shore, Princeville Ranch is one of Hawaii’s oldest cattle ranches. Horseback riding lessons are available for ages 4 and older.

14. Book Ziplining and Mountain Tubing Tours

Kauai Backcountry Adventures offers the best family activities for an adrenaline rush. On the mountain tubing tours you’ll float down an old sugar plantation irrigation system, through open canals and through several tunnels hand-dug circa 1870.

In addition, the company offers a seven-line Zipline course through a lush forest.

15. Sail Along Napali Coast

The Napali coast spans 17 miles along Kauai’s North Shore. Guided snorkel cruises are an excellent way to see the stunning Napali Coast’s cliffs, sea caves and waterfalls.

My son practiced his snorkel skills in the pool prior to our snorkel adventure on the Big Island. Photo credit: Keri Baugh

Hawaii Island (Big Island)

Hawaii Island, also called the Big Island of Hawaii, has an array of diverse outdoor adventures suitable for the whole family. In fact, because the island has 10 of the world’s 14 climate zones, you’ll also experience a variety of terrain and weather. Explore beaches, waterfalls, cultural sites and coffee farms on the Big Island, which is home to two active volcanoes – Kīlauea and Mauna Loa.

Many of the large Hawaii Island resorts, such as the Fairmont Orchid on the Kohala Coast , offer hula lessons, canoeing and other Hawaiian cultural experiences for their guests.

16. Explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hilo

Stop by the visitor center for park news and activities before exploring this unique park that has hiking trails, steam vents, lava tubes and a rainforest. Older kids will especially enjoy trekking through the rainforest to the crater floor pocked with steam vents.

Akaka Falls, Big Island. Photo credit: Mimi Slawoff

17. Visit Akaka Falls State Park

Located along the northeastern Hilo Coast, Akaka Falls State Park is the site of two waterfalls on one short hike. Follow a footpath through a rainforest to see the 100-foot Kahuna Falls and the towering Akaka Falls . This is a lovely outing for kids of all ages.

SheBuysTravel Tip: There are a few picnic tables by the parking lot.

Hilo Farmers Market. Photo credit: Mimi Slawoff

18. Shop at the Hilo Farmers Market

The Hilo Farmers Market features over 200 vendors selling fresh fruits, vegetables, Big Island food products, tropical flowers and handmade craft items. It’s a great place to shop for picnic items to bring to the beach or back to your hotel.

19. Snorkel in Sunny Kona

The sunny Kona district is great for beach activities like snorkeling , paddle boarding and spotting dolphins and honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles). One of Kona’s most unique adventures is the nighttime manta ray boat tour. It’s a magical experience to float on top of the water in a calm bay, with bright lights attracting the rays who swirl inches below.

FIND PLACES TO STAY NEAR KAUAI

The post 20 Fun Things to Do in Hawaii with Kids in 2024 appeared first on She Buys Travel .

With so many fun things to do in Hawaii with kids, the Aloha State is one of the best destinations for a family-friendly vacation. Each of the Hawaiian islands is unique...

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Oahu tours & activities, fun things to do in Oahu
Book exclusive deals on Oahu tours, activities and tickets online. Read verified Oahu tour reviews to find the best things to do in Oahu on your vacation. Talk to our tour experts to find out what to do in Oahu and instantly reserve top Oahu attractions easily and safely. Oahu is home to Honolulu and Waikiki Beach, which host activities like snorkeling, dinner cruises and luaus.
THE TOP 10 Oahu Tours & Excursions (UPDATED 2024)
3,251. The Pearl Harbor National Monument is a must-visit when coming to Oahu. Guarantee your entry, including boat tickets to the USS Arizona, with this tour. Take a tour of the visitor's center, where you watch a short film and explore exhibits that recount the infamous morning of December 7, 1941. 4 hours.
THE 10 BEST Oahu Tours & Excursions for 2024 (with Prices)
15. Magnum PI Hughes 500 4-Passenger Doors-Off Helicopters. 674. Adventure Tours. 1-2 hours. See Oahu from high in the sky with the wind in your hair on this open-door helicopter tour. Board the helicopter and ascend…. Free cancellation. Recommended by 98% of travelers.
Best 40 Things to Do on Oahu, Hawaii (the list + map you need)
Boat tours include lunch, snacks, sunscreen, snorkel gear, and other comforts for a day out on the water. Our favorite Kaneohe Sandbar tour leaves directly from the small boat harbor near the sandbar. Learn more about the best Kaneohe Sandbar boat tour. Directions: 46-499 Kamehameha Hwy, Kaneohe, HI 96744.
Oahu Tours and Activities The Best Oahu Tours To Do
Pearl Harbor Tours. There are a number of great excursions to see Pearl Harbor and the rest of Oahu too. No vacation to Oahu is complete without a visit to the USS Arizona Memorial, the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum and the USS Battleship Missouri. After that, visit the historic downtown Honolulu and Punchbowl Crater.
THE 10 BEST Oahu Sightseeing Tours (with Prices)
3 contributions. Fun Tour. Review of: Jurassic Adventure Tour at Kualoa Ranch. Written July 12, 2024. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. DaveHolland70. Orlando, FL31 contributions. Hanauma Snorkeling Is a MUST while on Oahu.
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Oahu "Fun" Circle Island Tour. Explore and Discover Oahu with a local guide. Narrated tour with multiple stops, fun adventure, swim w/turtles, Dole pineapple, Halona blowhole.. Price: $ 129.00 Now $85.00. view details Ka Moana Luau. Hawaii's "Most Fun" luau with top rated entertainments. Experience cultural activities, Buffet Dinner ...
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We're happy to answer your questions. (800) 824-8804 . Toll-free within the United States. +1 (808) 591-2561. International RSVP & tour inquiries. [email protected]. Drop us a note and say Aloha! Explore Oahu's beauty with E Noa Tours! Island adventures and historic Pearl Harbor tours await.
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Oahu: Kualoa Open Air Jungle Expedition Tour. Explore the jungles at Kualoa Ranch in an open-air vehicle and enjoy the stunning views. Tour the Hakipu'u rainforest and Jurassic Valley to see where Jurassic World and Kong Skull Island were filmed. From $54.95.
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Book the Oahu Grand Circle Island Tour, an eco-adventure that lets you explore the top historical, scenic, and cultural sites of Oahu including Waimea Valley. Includes locally sourced lunch. 2024-07-09T17:21:56+00:00
37 Best Things To Do In Oahu Hawaii (Fun, Couples, Free)
Book Now: Oahu Snorkeling Tour . 22. Take A Helicopter Tour ... When you've finally exhausted all of the fun things to do on Oahu, you've still only scratched the surface of Hawaii! The other Hawaiian islands like Kauai, Mauai, and the Big Island are loaded with nice scenery, beaches, waterfalls, hikes, and all kinds of other fun things to ...
Oahu Bucket List: 45+ of the Coolest Things To Do in Oahu, Hawaii
I learned this fun word on my first trip to Oahu back in 2007, and was so excited to finally see one while snorkeling here in 2013. ... Check out some of these popular Oahu food tours for your next trip: Hawaii Food Tour - Off the Beaten Path - This 3-hour, small group walking tour "provides insights into Hawaii's multicultural history ...
15 Best Oahu Tours
View Prices & Reviews. 2. Diamond Head Crater Morning Adventure Hike. Source: Benny Marty / shutterstock. Diamond Head, Oahu. A little morning exercise is a great way to set the pace for a fun-filled day in Oahu. This hike to Diamond Head crater lasts less than an hour.
The 21 Best Tours On Oahu, Hawaii
Here is a helpful table listing all of the best tours on Oahu, Hawaii. BEST-VALUE TOURS IN OAHU. RATES. Turtle Canyon Snorkel Cruise by Catamaran. $90. Waikiki: Oahu 120-Mile Full-Day Tour with Dole Plantation. $124. North Shore Shark Cage Experience on Oahu. $115.
50 Bucket List Things to do in Oahu
Watch the Sunset at Tantalus Lookout. 49. Take a Photo on the Dock at Kahana Bay. 50. Hike the Olomana Trail to the Three Peaks. A few more things to add to your Oahu bucket list: 1. Snorkel at Hanauma Bay. Hanauma Bay is an ancient volcanic crater that is filled with vibrant tropical fish and Green Sea Turtles.
THE 80 BEST THINGS TO DO ON OAHU, HAWAII
THE FOUR MOST POPULAR OAHU TOURS. Doors-Off Oahu Helicopter Flight Tour: My number one recommendation is to do a heli-flight (doors off) and be blown away when you see Oahu from the air.; North Shore Shark Cage Tour: The biggest adrenaline rush you can have in Hawaii is beneath the surface with sharks!; Eco-Friendly Dolphin and Snorkel Tour: One of the best experiences I had on Oahu was ...
Tours, Activities, Services & More To Do
Oahu just might be the perfect island to visit- the climate is fabulous, cultural activities abound, and the island is steeped in history. Plus, if you love the fresh air you'll enjoy world-class water and beach fun, as well as gorgeous green panoramas just waiting for you to experience. Check out some of Oahu's Must See and Do Adventures:
The 5 Best Oahu Circle Island Tours
Best Large Group Oahu Circle Island Tour. Hop on this 10-hour Oahu adventure that's perfect for big families and groups. Oahu Nature Tours Ultimate Circle Island Tour accommodates up to 45 people and is a jam-packed day of sightseeing! The tour includes lunch and access to Waimea Valley.
Oahu Island Experience feat. North Shore (Small Group Tour)
Oahu Fun Circle Island Tour With Pickup . 232. Full-day Tours. from . $99.00. per adult. Deluxe Pearl Harbor, USS Arizona Memorial & Honolulu City Tour. 3,721. Historical Tours. from . $94.03. per adult. Oahu Shark Dive (no cage) 46. Extreme Sports. from . $155.00. per adult. Turtle Canyon Snorkel from Waikiki (Semi Private Boat Tour) 117 ...
10 Incredible Oahu Boat Tours Worth Booking
10. Kaneohe Sandbar Catamaran Ocean Sports Adventure. For another one of the best boat tours on Oahu, check out this Kaneohe Bay Sandbar Ocean Sports Adventure. Located along the start of North Shore, Kaneohe Bay offers a unique experience with a sandbar only accessible by boat! Set sail on a catamaran and head to the sandbar.
Circle Island Tours
Circle Island Sightseeing Vacations. There are islands all over the world that we love. We provide our own guided tours on Maui, Oahu, and Big Island from our home islands here in Hawaii. In addition, our close partners throughout Polynesia, all the way down to the South Island of New Zealand, can deliver exceptional one-day and multi-day ...
81 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Oahu (Hawaii)
Oahu, the third-largest Hawaiian island, boasts many diverse and exciting activities. It's home to Pearl Harbor, numerous hiking trails, stargazing locations, Jurassic Park tours, and a variety of beach activities like snorkeling and diving. There is no shortage of things to do in Oahu. Stay in iconic Honolulu or at Waikiki Beach and experience paradise for a few days. Oahu is perfect for ...
20 Fun Things to Do in Hawaii with Kids in 2024
2. Learn About Pearl Harbor. Pearl Harbor is the site of WWII's 1941 bombing attack and home to the USS Arizona Memorial.Tickets for the 75-minute USS Arizona Memorial program are free.
Fun Group Hawaii
From Waikiki to the North Shore - this tour provides you with the best "Taste of Hawaii" all in one day. Take advantage …. Free cancellation. Recommended by 96% of travelers. from. $99. per adult. Reserve. Diamond Head Hiking and Oahu Island Experience feat.

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2. Visit The Pillboxes

3. See The Waterfalls

4. Climb The Stairway To Heaven

5. Climb A Volcano Crater

6. Visit The North Shore

7. Relax On The Beaches

8. Stroll A Botanical Garden

9. Try Shave Ice

10. See The Lighthouses

11. See The Wildlife

12. Take A Scenic Drive

13. Tour The Film Sites

14. Visit The Dole Plantation

15. See The Rainbows

16. Go Island Hopping

17. See The Landmarks

18. Visit Pearl Harbor Memorial

19. Enjoy The Viewpoints

20. See A Temple

21. Go Snorkeling

22. Take A Helicopter Tour

23. Go Whale Watching

24. Take A Gyroplane Flight

25. Try Watersports

26. Skydive In Paradise

27. Swim With Sharks

28. Go Cliff Jumping

29. Visit Tropical Farms

30. Watch The Sunrise

31. Watch The Sunset

32. Visit The Museums

33. Experience Hawaiian Culture

34. Eat Poké Bowls

35. See The Malls

36. Shop For Souvenirs

37. See The Rest Of Hawaii

Map Of Best Things To Do In Oahu Hawaii

Private Tours & Charters