Things to do in Oahu

Top Things to Do in Oahu

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Things to Do in Oahu

Get the best of both worlds: beaches like Kailua Beach and snorkelling all day, then big-city vibes in Honolulu with Polynesian food and luaus ‘til sunset.

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Ways to tour Oahu

Book these experiences for a close-up look at Oahu.

Turtle Canyon Snorkel Adventure
782
On the Water
from
€80
per adult
Reserve
Chief's Luau Admission
915
Dinner and Show Tickets
from
€128
per adult
Reserve
Pearl Harbor USS Arizona Memorial
627
Historical Tours
from
€65
per adult
Reserve
Grand Tour Around Island 16 Locations + Snorkeling
882
Full-day Tours
from
€103
per adult
Reserve
Oahu Whale-Watching Excursion
149
On the Water
from
€77
per adult
Reserve
Moana’s Sunset Cocktail Sail along Oahu's Waikiki Coast
624
Catamaran Cruises
from
€66
per adult
Reserve
Beginner Scuba Diving Adventure w/ Videos in Honolulu
1,480
Scuba Diving
from
€94
per adult
Reserve
Hidden Gems of Oahu - Circle Island Tour with Waimea Waterfall
1,705
Full-day Tours
from
€142
per adult
Reserve
Oahu Shark Dive
1,168
Unique Experiences
from
€84
per adult
Reserve
2-Hour Whale Watching from Oahu
178
On the Water
from
€44
per adult
Reserve

Snorkeling

Top Attractions in Oahu

These rankings are informed by traveller reviews—we consider the quality, quantity, recency, consistency of reviews, and the number of page views over time.

1. ‪Diamond Head State Monument

Hiking Trails

This dormant volcano crater is one of Honolulu’s major natural landmarks, known for its history, amazing hikes, and stunning coastal views. The way to the summit is an easy-to-moderate hike up—though there's a steep flight of steps—and you'll be treated to some of the best views on the island. There are also many lookouts surrounding the crater. If you have limited mobility, don't worry, multiple other hikes within the park are accessibility friendly. It can get busy (and hot!) so try to reach early in the morning and bring sunscreen and plenty of water. Online reservations are required for non-residents but are often included in guided tours of Diamond Head. – Tripadvisor

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2. USS Arizona Memorial

Historic Sites

Admission tickets from €18

The most visited spot in Hawaii, this majestic floating memorial honors those who died during the WWII Pearl Harbor attack.

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3. Pearl Harbor National Memorial

Historic Sites

A National Historic Landmark, this site consists of five memorials commemorating the events around WWII and the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941.

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4. Iolani Palace

Speciality Museums

Iolani Palace, the official residence of Hawaii’s monarchy, is a marvel of opulence, innovation and political intrigue. Meticulously restored to its former grandeur, this National Historic Landmark in downtown Honolulu tells of a time when their Majesties, King Kalakaua, who built the palace in 1882, and his sister and successor, Queen Liliuokalani, walked its celebrated halls. Today, you can enjoy one of the most spectacular living restorations in all of Polynesia and immerse yourself in Hawaii’s royal heritage. E komo mai! Welcome!

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5. Battleship Missouri Memorial

Historic Sites

Since opening in January 1999, the Battleship Missouri Memorial has attracted more than 10-million visitors from around the world with a fascinating tour experience showcasing the USS Missouri’s unique place in history. Located a mere ship’s length from the USS Arizona Memorial, the Mighty Mo completes a historical visitor experience that begins with the “day of infamy” and sinking of the USS Arizona in Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, and ends with Japan’s formal surrender aboard the USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay on September 2, 1945. The USS Missouri had an astounding career over five decades and three wars – World War II, the Korean War, and Desert Storm – after which it was decommissioned and donated to the USS Missouri Memorial Association, Inc., a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. The Association operates the Battleship Missouri Memorial as a historic attraction and oversees her care and preservation with the support of visitors, memberships, grants, and donations.

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6. Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve

Bodies of Water

This protected marine life conservation area, named after its unique curved bay, is a popular snorkeling spot in Hawaii. Formed within a volcanic cone on the eastern side of Oahu, this marine sanctuary is home to vibrant marine life and well-preserved corals. There is a limited number of visitors allowed in the bay daily, so make a reservation in advance to secure your spot. It's also closed on certain days so remember to check before you go. You can rent snorkeling equipment here—all you have to do is remember to pack some reef-safe sunscreen. Some tours of the North Shore also stop by the bay for a quick photo opportunity.

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7. Waikiki Beach

Beaches

This iconic landmark in Waikiki is one of Hawaii’s most famous beaches, located on the south shore of Oahu. Waikiki Beach is the birthplace of modern surfing culture—look out for the statue of renowned waterman Duke Kahanamoku, who popularized the sport internationally. Once the playground of Hawaiian royals, today the beachfront is lined with resorts and some of Hawaii’s most historic hotels. Surfers, swimmers, and sunbathers flock to this beach all day long. Boat tours in Waikiki are a great way for admiring the coast away from the crowds. Neighboring Kalākaua Avenue has plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. – Tripadvisor

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8. Koko Crater Railway Trail

Hiking Trails

Also known as the "Koko Head Stairs," this abandoned WWII railway track is a steep and challenging hiking trail with over 1,000 steps (but worth it for the panoramic views).

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9. Manoa Falls

Waterfalls

This scenic 150-foot-tall falls is only accessible via a hike through the rainforest. It's a 1.5-mile round trip, which takes about an hour or two from the trailhead. Wear good shoes as the path can get muddy and slippery, and bring bug repellent and plenty of water. Manoa Falls is a great photography spot, and the location has featured in movies and television shows like Jurassic Park and Lost. Cool off in the pool at the base of the falls and grab a snack and a refreshing pineapple smoothie for your walk back to civilization. – Tripadvisor

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10. Lanikai Beach

Beaches

Also known as Kaʻōhao Beach, Lanikai Beach is widely regarded as one of the best beaches in the world, and is famous for its stunning views of the Mokulua Islands. Book a kayak tour for a chance to see the green sea turtles that inhabit the 'The Mokes'. The beach is also a popular spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing, thanks to consistent and steady winds. Enjoy the beautiful colors of the sky as the sun rises and sets over the Pacific Ocean and admire the beautiful houses and gardens of the surrounding residential area of Kailu. Come prepared as there are no amenities at this beach. – Tripadvisor

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11. Kailua Beach Park

Beaches

Located on the southeast end of Kailua Beach, this pristine shoreline on Oahu's Windward side is popular for water sports and scenic strolls.

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12. Makapuu Lighthouse Trail

Historic Walking Areas

Makapuu Lighthouse Trail is one of Oahu's most popular coastal hiking trails on its southeastern coast, offering spectacular views of the Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline. You'll get to see landmarks like Koko Crater, Makapuu Beach, and even the offshore islands Molokai and Lanai on a clear day. There's also the iconic red Makapuu Lighthouse built in 1909 which you can see along the way. Bring a pair of binoculars to spot seabirds and migrating humpback whales from November to May. This uphill trail is about two miles long and is well-paved throughout, making it a manageable trek for families with children. – Tripadvisor

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