Things To Do in Oahu, Hawaii

Activities, attractions and tours

Oahu
Oahu
Oahu Island which includes a sandy beach and tropical scenes as well as a large group of people
Oahu
Honolulu which includes tropical scenes, general coastal views and a city

Oahu Attractions

When rest and relaxation are in order, there is perhaps no better place to visit than Oahu. The clock always reads island time in this Hawaiian destination, and there are plenty of ways to forget about your worries back home. Things to do in Oahu include the cultural and the athletic. Naturally, you can always soak up some Vitamin D while you’re on the island, too. From the vibrant crowds on Waikiki Beach to the reinvigorating solitude afforded by inland jungle landscape, Oahu has something for everyone.

Areas & Neighborhoods on Oahu

People often think of white ribbons of sand when they imagine a trip to Hawaii, and you will encounter no shortage of coastline on a vacation to Oahu. Still, if it’s lush landscape or busy city streets you’re after: The island still delivers. The neighborhoods and cities in Oahu are diverse and exciting.

Honolulu — As the capital of Hawaii, Honolulu is a hub for business and entertainment. Naturally, this means some of the best things to do in Oahu, Hawaii make their homes here. Downtown Honolulu and Chinatown are particularly popular among visitors, and Waikiki Beach offers a place to get sand in between your toes.

Windward Coast — The Windward Coast region of Oahu is on the southwest side of the island, just a short drive from Honolulu. Visit sites like the Makapuu Point Lighthouse and Nuuanu Pali Lookout while you’re in the area.

Leeward Coast — Situated on the western side of the island, the Leeward Coast is at the base of the Waianae Mountains. The climate here is notably drier than other parts of Oahu, and the region has far less tourism than the Windward side. Visit the Leeward Coast for a secluded surfing excursion or quiet beach day.

North Shore — People-wise, the North Shore is also quite tame when compared to the hustle and bustle of Honolulu. This side of the island is deal for snorkeling, hiking to waterfalls, and strolling through charming beach villages, not to mention the famous big wave surfing opportunities here.

Things to See in Oahu

Before you step into your hiking boots or swim fins, there are lots of things to see in Oahu, not the least of which are the spectacular views. Grab your best camera and head to spots like Diamond Head Crater and Puu Ualakaa State Park for a chance to take a frame-worthy snapshot. Of course, you can also be entertained on the island. Oahu activities like luaus put you front and center with dancers and other performers. You can also take in a refined performance at the Oahu Ballet or one of the island’s many theaters.

Things to Do & Attractions in Oahu

Oahu offers lots of opportunities for adventure by both land and sea. If you want to keep your feet dry, head to Leahi (Diamond Head) or the Waimea Valley for a day hike. Not only will you burn some calories, but you can enjoy wonderful views and take in the diverse terrain. When it comes to water activities on Oahu, adventures range from body boarding at Hanauma Bay to outrigger canoe rides at Waikiki. Guided Oahu tours let you see different parts of the island in the same day without getting lost.


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What to do in Oahu


Discover the most popular places to visit in Oahu

Explore areas of Oahu

Waikiki featuring landscape views, a sunset and a city

Waikiki

4.5/5(1,920 area reviews)

Famous for Waikiki Beach, this district boasts six beaches and a skyline filled with high-rises and resort hotels. Surfing enthusiasts can enjoy the ideal surf break, while Kalākaua Avenue offers luxury shopping and Kūhiō Avenue features diverse dining and nightlife options.

Waikiki
Ala Moana Beach Park showing surfing, tropical scenes and swimming

Ala Moana

4/5(11 area reviews)

Situated along Oʻahu's southern shores, this district boasts a vast stretch of reef-protected white sandy beaches and the world's largest open-air shopping center, Ala Moana Center. Enjoy shopping, dining, and relaxing at Ala Moana Beach Park.

Ala Moana
Diamond Head which includes a city, landscape views and a sunset

Diamond Head - Kapahulu - St. Louis

3.5/5(6 area reviews)

While visiting Diamond Head - Kapahulu - St. Louis, you might make a stop by sights like Waikiki Beach and Honolulu Zoo.

Diamond Head - Kapahulu - St. Louis
USS Arizona Memorial which includes a memorial

Western Honolulu

3/5(95 area reviews)

The abundant dining options and waterfront views are just a few top-rate features of the neighborhood. Make a stop by Honolulu Harbor or Navy Exchange Mall while you're visiting, and jump aboard the metro at Hālawa / Aloha Stadium Station to get around town.

Western Honolulu
Makiki - Lower Punchbowl - Tantalus showing landscape views, a sunset and a city

Manoa

4.5/5(2 area reviews)

You'll enjoy the mountain views and monuments in Manoa. You might want to make time for a stop at Clarence T.C. Ching Athletics Complex or Stan Sheriff Center.

Manoa
Downtown Honolulu which includes heritage architecture and a city

Downtown Honolulu

2.5/5(3 area reviews)

This area is a center for local government since 1845, this district boasts diverse architectural styles and historic landmarks, including ʻIolani Palace, Kawaiahao Church, and St. Andrew's Cathedral.

Downtown Honolulu

 

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Day trip destinations from Oahu