96 Ultimate Things To Do In Oahu For Holidays

Oahu is one of the most incredible places I have ever seen. Last month I visited Hawaii and saw the best places in Hawaii including Big Island, Maui, Oahu. All these places are unique in their own way but I still wanted to spend more time in Oahu and found out the ultimate things to do in Oahu.

When I visited Oahu for the first time I knew I would come back because there were a lot of things to do and many places to explore and this time I was completely blown away.

Let’s dive in

Fun Things To Do In Oahu For Vacation

1.Chinaman’s Hat

Things To Do In Oahu
Chinaman’s Hat Quinn Dombrowski/Flickr

Chinaman’s Hat is also known as Mokolii. It is called Chinaman’s Hat because of its shape like a hat. It is a small island near Kualoa Regional Park. I clicked a lot of pictures of this spectacular place.

You can reach this island through kayak or boat available from sunrise to sunset. It is an ideal place for hikers and will take around 25 minutes to reach the top of the island but the view from there is mindblowing. I had some amazing burgers at Aunty Pat’s Paniolo Cafe

Where To Stay

Four Seasons Resort

2.The Shangri La Museum

The Shangri La Museum For Islamic Art, Design, And Culture showcase beautiful art and architecture from different countries. You have to book tickets in advance to experience the masterpiece.

3.Honolulu Street Art

Enjoy the street art at Kakaako area. You will love it.

4.Sea Tiger Wreck

Resting 123 feet below water Sea Tiger Wreck is a 189 abandoned gigantic ship. If you know scuba diving, it is an adventurous journey. If you don’t know scuba diving then you can learn scuba diving in Oahu.

5. Halona Beach Cove

Also called Eternity Beach, it has been a part of many Hollywood movies.

Halona Blow Hole is a major attraction here. Don’t miss Cockroach Cove which is nearby.

6.Olomana Trail

It is also called Three Peaks. This 4.4 mile trail is very dangerous but it offers an amazing view of Lanikai Beach.

7. Kaneohe Bay Sandbar

Kaneohe Bay Sandbar is one of the most spectacular scenic spots. You will love to do snorkeling here. We played volleyball and it was fun.

8.Oahu Submarine Scooter Adventure

This is a very interesting tour as a self-propelled scooter makes it easy for everyone to get an underwater experience. Even if you don’t know swimming you can enjoy an underwater experience through this tour.

9.Lanikai Beach

Lanikai Beach.
Lanikai Beach

Lanikai beach is one of the best beaches in Oahu. The view from the beach will take your breath away. I saw a few professional photographers and models there doing their shoot as two other islands can be seen in the background, so it gives the ultimate view.

It is a perfect beach for kayaking, snorkeling, and paddleboarding. I spent a lot of time swimming as it was very calm and there were very few people. And then I had delicious lamb chops in The Hibachi. You will love the sunrise from the Pillbox hike.

Where To Stay-Hotels Near Lanikai Beach

Walker’s Lanikai Beach House

10.Enjoy Acai Bowls

You will love acai bowls. It contains honey, granola, and a number of different fruits, quite popular here. The other food I love in Oahu is Poke Bowls. I also loved food trucks especially The Elephant Shack.

11.Join The Food Bike Tour

Enjoy popular Hawaiian food like Garlic Shrimp and Dole Whip through a food bike tour. You will love the experience.

12.Mokulua Island

Consisting of two islets Mokulua is located 0.75 miles from Kailua. If you kayak from Lanikai Beach it will take you half an hour. Queen’s Bath is one of the best spots here.

13.National Memorial Cemetry Of The Pacific

This military cemetery is located at Punchbowl Crater. It is part of National Register Of Historic Places.

14.Haiku Gardens

It is one of Oahu hidden gems. A number of wedding takes place here. The view from the garden is simply spectacular.

15.Alan Davis Beach

It is a beautiful beach near Makapu’u Lighthouse. A lot of tourists do cliff jumping here.

16.Makua Beach

If you love snorkeling and surfing this is the perfect beach for you and the best part is, it is never crowded. Don’t miss Makua Cave. The view from the cave is superb.

17.See And Swim With Sharks

Things To Do In Oahu

The tour company GetYour Guide will take you near sharks, you can either watch them from the boat or from the shark cage. I was initially petrified to do this but when I saw people were enjoying the experience I chose to be in the shark cage and it was a very terrifying yet amazing experience. It was one of the most unique things to do in Oahu yet one of the most non-touristy things to do in Honolulu.

During winter join the whale watching tour also.

Read:10 Hidden Things To Do In Oahu

18.Boat Tours In Oahu

There are a number of interesting boat tours but my favorites are Glass Bottomed Boat Tour and Oahu Catamaran Cruise.

19.Honolulu Museum Of Art

It is a beautiful art museum that has an amazing collection of Chinese, Asian and Japanese art works.

20.Nu’uanu Pali Lookout

Located in Lo’oalu mountain this lookout gives spectacular panoramic view of Oahu.

21.Tantalus Lookout

It offers spectacular view of Diamond Head. The lookout is ideal for picnicking.

22.Cromwell Beach

The spectacular beach is popular for diving. People love to do swimming here. The experience in rock pool is surreal.

23.Leeward Coast

If you want to enjoy the rural landscapes then head to the spectacular Leeward Coast which is 30 miles from Waikiki.

24.Hanauma Bay

hanauma bay
Hanauma Bay

I really loved Hanauma Bay the last time I came to Hawaii and it was again on my bucket list. One of the best things to do in Oahu is to do snorkeling here.

I wanted to have a great time snorkeling so I joined a guided tour that specializes in snorkeling. I bought snorkeling gear recently from amazon.com and had a great time snorkeling. Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve has beautiful white sand and shallow water is perfect for snorkellers. Don’t miss Hanauma Bay Ridge hike.

Where To Stay

Hampton Inn-Hampton Inn is located in Kapolei in Hawaii and provides complimentary breakfast and I must say they have excellent customer service.

Read:10 Oahu Hike

25.Paradise Cove Luau

If you want to know the Hawaiian culture, their traditional performances and their meal ,it is one of the best attractions.

Read: Hawaii Bucket List

26.Kualoa Ranch

It is a theme park where a number of Hollywood films are shot. You can enjoy an ATV tour and zipline tour here. Also, experience jungle expedition tour.

27.Waikiki Sunset Cocktail Cruise

This 90 minute interesting cruise from Oahu is fun filled with appetizers, cocktails. You will love the sunset from this yacht.

28.Pali Notches Hike

It is popular among hikers but it is dangerous so if you are pro at hiking then only go for it.

29.Albatross Sanctuary

Home to more than 400 birds, Albatross sanctuary is located at Kaena Point.

30.Laie Point

It is a popular cliff jumping spot in Oahu.

31.Diamond Head

Things To Do In Oahu
Diamond Head

Diamond Head is an iconic landmark in Oahu. I was told that it gets crowded very quickly so I went there early morning at 6 in the morning. Diamond Head hike is one of the most popular places to visit in Honolulu. You hike for around 30 minutes and then you will experience an amazing view.

If you want a guided tour do it through Diamond Head Crater Hike.

Where To Stay

Diamond head Beach

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32.Iolani Palace

It was a royal residence of Hawaiian rulers and now it is turned into a museum. It is a part of the National Register Of Historic Places. The palace is a National Historic Landmark.

33.Bishop Museum

The largest museum in Hawaii, Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum is a science and history museum that is home to the largest Polynesian artifacts collection. The planetarium show is a major highlight here.

34.Ala Moana Beach Park

It is a beautiful public park. There is no entry fee so you can unwind here after exploring Oahu. It is great for picnicking.

35.Koko Kai Beach Mini Park

Hikers and surfers just love Koko Kai Beach Mini Park. It is also called China Walls. A lot of adventurous people indulge in cliff jumping here.

36.Sandy Beach

Located on Oahu’s South Shore, Sandy Beach is one of the most popular beaches here known for bodysurfing and bodyboarding. It is also called break-neck beach.

37.Kaniakapupu Ruins

It was a summer palace of Kamehameha 3 located in Nu’uanu Valley. This is one of the hidden gems of Oahu. Don’t miss the beautiful Laukaha Waterfall.

38.Shave Ice

Shaved Ice.
Shaved Ice

If you are in Oahu you have to try shaved ice, it is a must, without it your Oahu vacation is incomplete.

Shaved ice is one of the most famous Hawaiian desserts made by shaving a block of ice. I tried it in various places but my favorites are Matsumoto and Waiola shaved ice.

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39.Double Three

It is one of the most popular ice cream parlor and you have a number of toppings to choose from.

40.Koko Crater Railway Trail

The trail offers a spectacular scenic view. It is also called Koko Head Stairs. The hike takes around 45 minutes to reach the top. It has more than 1000 steps. Don’t miss Koko Crater Arch which is just 10 minutes away.

41.USS Bowfin Submarine Museum And Park

This historic submarine was used in World War. It is a great exhibit for tourists now. The museum is just next to USS Arizona Memoria

42.Wiliwilinui Ridge Trail

It is a 4.7 mile trail is perfect for hiking and amazing scenic view.

43.Byodo In Temple

This is a Buddhist temple that is a replica of a temple in Uji, Japan. People love to ring a 300-tonne bell. A huge 18-foot statue of Lotus Buddha is a major highlight here.

44.Pearl Harbor

Things To Do In Oahu
Pearl Harbor- USS Arizona Memorial

It was the perfect educational experience for me. I have read about Pearl Harbor, in fact, watched the movie as well but visiting the memorial was really gratifying.

I had the guided tour to help me with the experience and learned a lot about the history behind it and had a great time at USS Arizona Memorial and one of the major Honolulu attractions.

Where To Stay

Embassy Suites By Hilton

45.Kailua Beach

It is one of the most beautiful beaches in Oahu and is 30 minutes away from Waikiki. The beach is great for snorkeling.

46.Ka’au Crater Trail

The trail is moderately difficult and will take you around 4 hours to hike. It gives spectacular view of Honolulu.

47.Duke’s Waikiki

After you are done with your outdoor activities its time to have some good food. Duke’s Waikiki is a great seafood restaurant. It offers amazing beach view. You would love to spend time here.

48.Pink Pillbox Hike

This is a 1.6-mile hike near Waianae on the west of Oahu. There are five pillboxes here. To honor breast cancer survivors and victims it is colored in pink.

49.Kaena Point

Things To Do In Oahu
Kaena Point Shever/Flickr

Related:33 Best Travel Tips

Kaena Point in Oahu is located on the western tip. It is famous for its bird sanctuary and state park.

A perfect place for hiking, Kaena point gives to ample scenic beauty.

50.Zipline Tour in Oahu

Enjoy the panoramic view of the rainforest through adventurous zipline tour. It is completely worth it.

51.Ko Olina Lagoon

It is one of the four public lagoons that is great for snorkeling.

52.Aloha Stadium Swap Meet

This is a great place to buy gift for your near and dear ones. Things are moderately priced and you will find something for yourself too. There are more than 400 stands here.

53.Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden

There is no entry fee for this garden except on New Years’ Day and Christmas. There are campgrounds, a beautiful lake, trails, a botanical library, and many other options to explore. You will get an amazing view from Kilonani Mauka.

54.Waikiki Beach

Things To Do In Oahu
Waikiki Beach

The last time I came to Oahu I missed Waikiki Beach and it is truly one of the best things to do in Waikiki, Oahu, from surfing to snorkeling to visiting a famous landmark, this beach offers a lot. Duke Kahanamoku statue is the most famous landmark here.

Where To Stay

Holiday Inn Express

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55.Oahu Hidden Gems

Be a part of this tour if you want to see Oahu hidden places like Dole Plantation and Sunset Beach.

56.Ala Moana Center

This is the biggest open air shopping mall in the world. You will find the biggest of brands like Versace, Nordstrom, Chanel and more.

57.Lulumahu Falls

Its a great hiking area with beautiful waterfall. It is located very close to Hawaii Route 61.

58.Ehukai Pillbox Hike

It is also called Sunset Pillbox hike and offers beautiful view of Ehukai Beach.

59. Spitting Cave

This beautiful cliff is a beautiful scenic spot. It is one of the hotspots for divers.

60.Helicopter view

Things To Do In Oahu
Helicopter view

I wanted to see Oahu from the helicopter and was very excited. Trust me when you will view the entire region from the top it will give you goosebumps. It was so beautiful I had to make a video.

I booked the helicopter tour and carried a lot of beautiful memories.

Read: Best Time To Visit Bali

61.Bar Leather Apron

If you are looking for some fun and amazing cocktails then Bar Leather Apron is one of the best options.

62.Hale O Lono Heiau

It is a perfect place if you want to know about the culture of Hawaii. You will learn a lot of Hawaiian history.

63.Farrington Highway

This is one of the most popular highways in western Oahu. You will love the scenic drive here.

64.Yokohama Bay

If you want a quite place then head to Yokohama Bay. The place is beautiful and secluded.

65.Cruise Tour

Things To Do In Oahu
Cruise Tour

The Cruise Tour was the ultimate experience and one of my favorite things to do in Oahu, it looked surreal at night. The beach at Waikiki looked so beautiful and it was an amazing Honolulu sightseeing experience.

Read

Things to Do In Oahu For Free And Enjoy

Hawaii Food You Should Try

Oahu in night-Top 7 things to do

66.Learn Surfing

Oahu is one of the best places to learn surfing. Waikiki and Kailua are the best beaches for beginners to learn surfing.

67.Snorkeling With Dolphins

I was very excited to see dolphins and I had the time of my life. It was really adventurous. Don’t miss this tour.

68.Judd Trail

Located near Honolulu this one mile trail is one of the most popular trails. Don’t miss the beautiful Ginger Pond.

69.Leonard’s Bakery

It is a popular bakery for donuts, cake and amazing malasada.

70.Maunawili Falls Trail

This 2.8 mile trail is located near Kailua and is popular for Maunawili bridge.

Few Other Things In Oahu To-Do List

71.Waimea Bay Rock Beach

72.Makaha Beach-Great for surfing. You will love a short but exciting trail here called Lahilahi Point.

73.See the Friday fireworks in Hilton-A lot of people gather on the beach to see it and it is free. It starts at around 7:45 in the evening.

74.Waiahole Poi Factory– Serves great Hawaiian comfort food

75.Explore the beauty of white sandy beach called Waimanalo Bay

76.Makapu’u Lighthouse trail-Experience the breathtaking view here. You will love the tide pools too.

77.Atlantis Submarines– Enjoy underwater experience

78.If you are lucky enough you will see rare Hawaiian monk seals.

79.Enjoy the jetpack experience at a height of 30 meters above the water. You just need to follow the instructions given by the guide and you will have the experience of your lifetime.

80.Adela’s Country Eatery– You will love the colorful noodles here.

81.Crouching Lion Hike– A great place for hikers in Kaaawa.

82.If you like sky diving head to North Shore

83.Enjoy Hawaiian Food At Helena

84.Love the view in Manoa Falls

85.Visit Kakaako Farmers Market

86.See Surfing competition at Waimea Bay-The Eddie and Billabong Pipe Masters are two of the biggest surfing competitions.

87.Enjoy Turtle Canyon Catamaran Snorkel Cruise

88.Spend some time in the beautiful Keikei Beach

89.Experience the adventure of parasailing in Oahu

90.Enjoy horseback ride in North Shore.

91.You will love Kapena Falls and the hike is easy . It is just 0.5 mile long hike.

Non Touristy Things To Do In Honolulu

92.Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon-This Man made pool is a treat to watch.

93.Enjoy fun filled adventure at Kuliouou Ridge Trail

94.Enjoy kite surfing at Aweoweo Beach Park.

95.Explore the mesmerizing Hanakapiai Falls

96.Enjoy hiking the amazing Stairway To Heaven

Stairway To Heaven

Travel Essentials

I prefer amazon.com to buy my travel essentials as I know I will get everything from one platform.

Accommodation

Agoda.com gives you a lot of hotel options and it is a part of world leader Booking Holdings, so I booked my stay from here. I stayed at Hilton Hawaiian Village Resort.

Flights

Trip.com is my preferred site as it always gives the best deals.

Travel Insurance

I think it is very important to have travel insurance because any unfortunate incident can happen so it’s better to be insured so I prefer Worlds Nomad.

I had a lovely time in Oahu and these were my favorite things to do in Oahu, let me know if you did something else here, I would love to know.

So get your tickets booked as soon as you can and experience the beauty and thrill of Oahu.

Oahu Tours

Get Your Guide offers a number of different tours and activities with tickets and guidance

Get Your Free Travel Checklist

Must Read: Why Should You Travel Alone At least Once A year

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