As the most visited island in Hawaii, Oahu is one of the most diverse, fun, and authentic places in the Aloha state, and knowing the best things to do in Oahu is a must to have a great trip.
Oahu is a must-visit destination in Hawaii, known for its picturesque beaches, epic tours all year round, and vibrant culture.
From hiking in the lush mountains to visiting the Jurassic Park movie set to indulge in local cuisine, there's no shortage of things to do in this tropical wonderland.
Let's jump right into the main topic - 10 Oahu things to do you can't miss on your Hawaii itinerary!
Best Things to Do on Oahu
Are you ready for an unforgettable experience? Then you made the right choice with Oahu. This idyllic island is home to some of the world's most stunning landscapes and beaches.
Here below, we will cover 10 of the activities in Oahu that will make your trip one to remember.
Visit Waikiki Beach
Waikiki Beach is a world-renowned destination for a reason. With its crystal clear waters, soft sand, and stunning views, it easily ticks all the boxes. And you'll get to go snorkeling at Waikiki Beach too, which is a must do.
But Waikiki isn't just a pretty face - it's packed with exciting activities, from surfing and paddle boarding to snorkeling and hiking.
And when you're ready to refuel, you'll find a plethora of dining options to choose from, whether you fancy a laid-back beachfront café or a Michelin-starred restaurant.
If you just want to relax, grab a beach chair and umbrella and enjoy the warm Hawaiian sun. It's worth noting that Waikiki Beach is by far the most famous beach in Oahu, so you'll want to come for sunrise or sunset to make the most of it.
Hike Diamond Head State Monument
On the hunt for a scenic hike with unbeatable views in Oahu? Check out Diamond Head State Monument.
Known not only for its fun hiking trail and incredible views but also for its military history, this hike offers the opportunity to explore a unique volcanic crater and climb up to a lookout point that boasts breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
The trail is relatively easy, although it includes a few steep sets of stairs near the top. However, the stunning panoramic views at the summit are well worth the effort.
In addition to its natural beauty, Diamond Head also gives a glimpse into Hawaiian history, as it once served as a crucial coastal defense station.
If you're into photography, make sure to check out the photography helicopter tour in Oahu, that will take you right above Diamond Head, and the views are simply amazing.
Attend the Luau at Nutridge Estate
Complete with fire-knife dancers, mouth-watering island cuisine, and plenty of aloha spirit to go around, the Luau at Nutridge Estate will easily be the highlight of your Oahu trip.
In addition, the dinner menu includes traditional dishes like kalua pig, poi, and lomi salmon, all served family-style.
Before the 4-hour show, you can explore the local Hawaiian village and participate in cultural activities, which only adds uniqueness to the trip.
What you'll love about the Luau is that it hosts a maximum of 100 people to make the experience as intimate and magical as possible. But make sure to book ahead of time as it sells out very fast.
Go to Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial
One of the places to visit in Oahu is Pearl Harbor. While it brings back sad memories of the horrific attack in 1941, it is a site visited by millions of people who find solace in commemorating the thousands of lives lost.
A highlight of any visit to Pearl Harbor is the opportunity to witness the USS Arizona Memorial floating atop the water’s surface, symbolizing the final resting place of the many sailors who died in the attack.
It is a stirring and unforgettable experience that instills a profound sense of appreciation for the sacrifices of the military and the indomitable spirit of the people of Hawaii.
The best way to visit the site is by booking the Pearl Harbor Ultimate Experience, which lasts 10 hours and includes the USS Arizona Memorial, Battleship Missouri, and the Aviation Museum.
Check Out Iolani Palace
Another interesting place to add to your Oahu trip is the Iolani Palace. Once home to Hawaii's monarchy, the palace is now a museum that offers visitors a glimpse into the lives of Hawaiian royalty.
The palace is full of interesting artifacts and exhibits, such as the opulent Koa wood staircase and the intricate quilts of Queen Liliuokalani.
You can take a guided tour of the palace for $25 per person to learn more about the history of Hawaii and the palace's place within it.
With so much to see and learn, visiting Iolani Palace is truly a golden opportunity you won't want to skip.
Explore Waikiki by Trolleybus
Oahu is a very cool place to visit, but the best way to explore the main area, Waikiki, is to take the trolley bus.
From the comfort of a vintage trolley, you'll roll past some of the most iconic landmarks in the area, including the world-famous Diamond Head Crater.
You'll also get insider tips on where to find the best shaved ice, poke bowls, and other local delicacies.
You'll be able to get on different routes, which are:
The Blue Line - Ocean/Diamond Head
The Red Line - City Arts District
The Pink Line - Ala Moana Shopping
You can get a 1-day pass, a 4-day pass, or a 7-day pass to cover all the routes, and we recommend purchasing the 7-day one. Not only will you be able to see the best attractions in Oahu but also get free transportation which is always a plus
Enjoy a Sunset Dinner Cruise
One of the most incredible tourist attractions in Oahu is taking a Sunset Dinner Cruise. As the sun sets over the Pacific, you'll get to take in the breathtaking and serene views of the island's coastline.
Cruising along the coast and tasting the local cuisine is not only a cool way to spend an evening but also informative!
The captains of the ship will make sure to follow the best route and the pod of whales for you to have the best time aboard.
Whether you're celebrating an anniversary, a honeymoon, or just exploring the island with that special someone, a sunset dinner cruise in Oahu is the perfect way to create lasting memories.
Kualoa Ranch Tour and Activities
Oahu, the third largest island in Hawaii, is known for its beaches and turquoise waters. However, there's more to the island than just its natural beauty.
Kualoa Ranch is the perfect example of that. Located on the east coast of Oahu, is a unique destination where you can experience a range of exciting activities.
First of all, you can join an ATV tour, which will take you through lush valleys and jungle forests to ziplining across verdant canopies. Also, the Jurassic Tour takes you on a journey through the Kualoa Ranch, where some of Hollywood’s most popular movies are filmed.
If it wasn't enough, Kualoa Ranch also has ziplining and horseback Riding tours to make the most of your time. Needless to say, the landscape around here is some of the most stunning in Hawaii, and you'll love visiting the ranch!
Learn about Hawaiian Culture at Bishop Museum
Next on our list of things to do in Oahu is the Bishop Museum - a must-see destination for anyone interested in learning about Hawaiian history and traditions.
With its comprehensive exhibits and collections, the museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the past and present of this incredible island.
Ancient tools, historical clothing items, contemporary art pieces, the exhibits provide everything you can think of and more.
On top of that, it's an excellent tourist attraction in Oahu for families as there's a planetarium, a section dedicated to science, and another section filled with games. Of course, when traveling as a family, this is exactly what you need.
With friendly staff, a visit to the Bishop Museum is a fascinating and educational experience that leaves you with a deeper appreciation for the Hawaiian culture.
Entry tickets cost $26.95 per person and $18.95 for kids aged 4 to 17, which is pretty reasonable.
Experience a Helicopter Tour
To explore Oahu in style, taking a helicopter tour around the island is the best way to see the whole island like never before.
Joining an 1-hour helicopter tour is a thrilling adventure that provides breathtaking views of the island's gorgeous landscapes.
From the lush greenery of the Manoa Valley to the crystal-clear waters of the North Shore and Kualoa Ranch, a helicopter tour lets you see it all from a different perspective.
As the saying goes, "the sky's the limit" when it comes to the sights you'll see on this tour. So, buckle up and get ready for an unforgettable ride that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
Note that these tours are very popular and, therefore, you will want to book online before coming to secure your seat.
Conclusion - Oahu Things to Do...
As you understand with this full guide, Oahu is an amazing destination with a wealth of activities.
Obviously, you’ll never get bored for a second here - Take in the stunning views on a sunset dinner cruise, explore Kualoa Ranch for its exciting ATV tours and horseback riding, and learn about Hawaiian culture at Bishop Museum.
For those looking for fun-filled family experiences or romantic getaways, we highly recommend taking advantage of all the tourists attractions in Oahu!
Frequently Asked Questions Sunset Beach Oahu
Sunset Beach Oahu is renowned for its stunning sunsets, pristine white sand beach, and world-class surfing conditions. It's a popular destination among surfers, especially during the winter months when it hosts prestigious surf competitions like the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing.
Sunset Beach gained fame due to its consistent big waves that attract professional surfers from around the globe. The combination of its tranquil atmosphere and stunning scenic views, make it an ideal destination for beach lovers looking to unwind and marvel at breathtaking sunsets over the Pacific Ocean.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et nam dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco nam laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure Sunset Beach derives its name from its breathtaking sunsets visible on Oahu's North Shore. The vibrant colors reflecting off the ocean create a mesmerizing sight, making it one of Hawaii's most iconic sunset spots.
Absolutely. Visiting Sunset Beach in Hawaii offers an unforgettable experience with its beautiful shoreline, excellent surfing opportunities, diverse marine life encounters, and captivating views of sunsets. It caters to both adventure seekers and those looking for leisurely activities while