25 Top Places To Visit in Oahu (Hawaii)
Oahu is the most visited Hawaiian Island attracting visitors with its warm weather, lush terrain, and pristine beaches. It makes the perfect holiday destination! Waikiki, located on the south shore of Oahu, is an international holiday destination and is where the majority of the visitors to Hawaii spend their holidays. Whether you are looking to discover the glimmering ocean, active volcanoes, or simply indulge in the vibrant dining scene, here is a list of the 25 top places to visit in Oahu.
With so many exciting things to see and do on Oahu, it’s tough to fit it all into one holiday. So, I’ve put together a list of the top places to visit in Oahu to make your visit to this island an incredible one. Whether you are here to sink your toes in the golden sands or indulge in world-class shopping this list of the top attractions in Oahu will lead you to the best things to do in Waikiki, Honolulu, North Shore, and some of the other regions in Oahu.
Oahu and Its Regions
The first thing you need to know when visiting Hawaii is that it’s not just one island. Hawaii is made up of many islands, Oahu is the most visited by tourists. It’s home to the majority of Hawaii’s population and offers a multitude of activities and attractions.
The island of Oahu is made up of five regions: Honolulu, the Windward Coast, Central Oahu, the Leeward Coast, and the North Shore. While most visitors spend the majority of their time in Honolulu and Waikiki, there are hidden treasures throughout the island; from the surfer culture of Haleiwa and the North Shore to the Makapuu Lighthouse on the island’s southeast tip and the lush valleys and scenic panoramas of the Windward Coast.
It’s important to understand the basic geography of the island so you know exactly where to base yourself and plan your attractions accordingly.
Driving Times from Waikiki To:
- Honolulu International Airport (HNL): 30 minutes
- Downtown Honolulu: 15 minutes
- Pearl Harbor: 30 minutes
- Haleiwa Town: 1 hour
- Waimea Bay: 1 hour, 15 minutes
- Ko Olina Resort: 45 minutes
Best Time to Visit Hawaii
Hawaii presents itself with warm and pleasant temperatures throughout the year. It’s more a question of how busy it gets during peak season and public holidays that sees a spike in accommodation and flight costs.
The best weather in Hawaii is in April, May, September, and October. November to March are the rainiest months, and June through November is hurricane season. However, if you are going to Hawaii to surf, then Winter brings the best waves for surfing, especially on north shore beaches. If you are looking to get a good deal, then traveling off-season is highly recommended. Also, avoid school holidays or public holidays where possible, you’ll be paying higher rates and dealing with a lot of tourists.
Know Before You Go
- English and Hawaiian are the two languages in Hawaii. However, English is pretty much spoken throughout the country.
- The official currency is the US Dollar. All major credit cards are widely accepted at major tourist destinations.
- Driving is on the right-hand side of the road. You will need to present a valid driving license, along with photographic identification, at the time of rental. You must also have a valid credit card (not a debit card) as the car hire company will need your card to authorize a security deposit payment.
- Tipping is very much part of the culture in Hawaii. Tips of between 15-20% are expected for all bar and restaurant services and about the same percentage should be applied to taxi fares. Hotel porters who assist with bag carrying also expect a tip. So, it is important to have some low denomination notes for this purpose.
- Hawaiian food is a blend of Asian, Polynesian, Hawaiian, and American influences. As Hawaii is a tropical destination, you can also enjoy a variety of fresh, locally grown fruit.
- American plugs and voltage are very different from other parts of the world. Depending on where you are traveling from, an adapter is a must if you’re planning on taking electronic devices to Hawaii.
- It’s important to always pack for hiking, the beach, and snorkeling (plus a change of clothes) when you are on the move in Hawaii. Carry plenty of drinking water, snacks, a hat, and most importantly sunscreen.
Getting Around Oahu
While there are several tour companies in Oahu that can take you to most of the top attractions in Oahu, my recommendation is to hire a car for the days you intend to move around the island (visiting North and East Shores). You have the flexibility to go where you want when you want. Parking can be expensive in Hawaii. It’s usually about $20US – $25US per day depending on where you find a spot. So, you can look to get a car for part of your holiday to make it easier to plan your day trips. For the remainder of your trip, you can just relax at Waikiki and explore the nearby attractions on foot. Alternatively, you can consider the hop-on-hop-off trolley.
We were very lucky as the area around the Aston Waikiki Sunset where we stayed had a lot of free street parking. You just had to be lucky enough to get a spot, we didn’t seem to have a problem at all. We ended up keeping the car for the entire duration of our holiday as we found it so handy.
If you don’t feel comfortable driving in Hawaii, you can always book tours or private transfers. Just remember you don’t always get the same flexibility.
25 Places to Visit in Oahu
Looking for the top things to do in Oahu? Oahu provides a perfect mix of everything. From beautiful beaches, breathtaking waterfalls, snorkeling, incredible coastal hikes, and some of the best waves you’ll see across the world, there’s so much to explore on the island of Oahu. Whether you are looking to have a nice chilled-out time with the family or a romantic getaway, find the best of Oahu with the 25 top places to visit in Oahu.
1. Waikiki Beach
This Oahu Beach is the main attraction in Waikiki and gets its fair share of visitors with beautiful aqua blue waters. It’s one of the most famous beaches in the world and a visit to Waikiki Beach is one of the top places to visit in Oahu. It’s easy to access from any of the hotels in the area. There are a total of 8 sections to Waikiki Beach making up nearly a 2-mile stretch of coastline.
You can swim and sunbathe during the day or take a leisurely stroll in the evenings. Either way, you’ll enjoy your time as there is so much to see and do in this area. While the beach itself was nice, it is quite saturated with tourists. I preferred some of the beaches on the East Coast and North Shore.
If you have ever wanted to learn to surf, this is not a bad place to try it out. There are some top-rated surf schools in Waikiki. There are plenty of ABC stores all along the stretch, so if you forget your beach mat, or togs, or need a quick snack or drink, this is the best place to go to.
Note: Waikiki Beach, Duke’s Beach, Kuhio Beach, and Queen’s Surf Beach in Waikiki are all small beaches that interconnect into one larger beach, making it easy to beach hop in one day.
2. Climb Diamond Head
If you are looking for incredible views over Honolulu, a trek-up Diamond Head should be on top of your list. Diamond Head Crater, is the extinct volcano on the east end of Waikiki and is a symbol of the city. Climbing Diamond Head is one of the top attractions in Waikiki and one of the most exciting hiking trails in Oahu. The trail leads up from the base of the crater to the summit following a rather steep path which eventually leads to steps that lead you to a viewpoint overlooking Waikiki. If you need a break, there are benches and lookouts along the way.
If you are brave enough to climb to the top of the summit, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of Waikiki and the Pacific Ocean. Make sure you start first thing in the morning. It gets very hot in Hawaii between 9.30 am and 4 pm and you definitely want to avoid the hike in the scorching heat. The hike to the top around the inside of the crater is best in the morning when the crater protects you from the hot rays of the sun. Carry plenty of water, a hat, and sunscreen!
Along the way, you’ll learn about its geological and military history. You’ll see a lighthouse, a bunker, and possibly whales swimming in the ocean.
It’s a short drive to Diamond Head from Waikiki Beach and there’s ample parking available. After your hike, cool off with a visit to nearby Diamond Head Beach Park where you can watch surfers catch waves. If you are traveling with kids, you can also visit other attractions like Honolulu Zoo, Waikiki Aquarium, and Kapiolani Park which are very close by.
3. Pearl Harbour – One of the most popular places to visit in Oahu
Pearl Harbor is one of the most significant sites in American history and one of the top places to visit in Oahu. It’s where America was suddenly drawn into World War II when the Japanese invaded the US Naval base just outside Honolulu and attacked the harbor. Pearl Harbor offers exhibits, a documentary film, books, a 75-minute memorial program, and many other things to do and see.
At Pearl Harbor, you’ll find the USS Arizona Memorial, the USS Bowfin Submarine, the Battleship Missouri Memorial, and the Pacific Aviation Museum. My highlight was definitely having the chance to peer into the harbor where the U.S.S Arizona rests. To our bad luck the ramp leading to the memorial was damaged so we didn’t actually get to go onto it. Sadly, we also couldn’t do U.S.S Bowfin as kids were not permitted on at the time and we were traveling with our toddler.
The Pearl Harbor Visitor Center offers access to Battleship Missouri Memorial, Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum, and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum. It’s an important landmark in Hawaii that highlights the events leading up to the attack on Oahu. The Pearl Harbor National Memorial’s visitor center, its two galleries, bookstore, exhibits, and Remembrance Circle are all free to visit and do not require tickets. For its main attraction, the USS Arizona Memorial, you must obtain a free, timed ticket.
If you only had a few hours at Pearl Harbor, I’d recommend you visit the USS Arizona Memorial and at least one of the other sites. If you decide to spend the day, you’ll likely have time to visit all the attractions. It’s definitely one of the top things to do on Oahu and I highly recommend it.
Note
We were lucky when we visited, we only stood in line for about 3 minutes to buy tickets on-site. We booked tickets on the day at the center itself. It’s not necessary to book a tour as I think you can cover most of the sites yourself with an audio guide.
Pearl Harbor does not allow bags into its Visitor Center. There is a bag storage facility on-site where you can leave your belongings for $5 a bag. This is a very strict policy, and the lines for the bag claim can be long, so consider bringing only what you absolutely need (wallet, camera, water bottle) and leave non-essential items at home (exceptions are made for families with strollers and/or people with medical needs).
4. Jump on a Waikiki Trolley Hop-on Hop-Off Tour
If you are looking for an easy and fun way to get around Waikiki, the trolley is a great option for you. Sit up top and enjoy the ride around town. You can jump off at any of the stops and catch another troller later.
There are multiple “lines” to choose from, including a Red Line Historic Honolulu Tour and a Blue Line Panoramic Coastline Tour, so you can pick based on what you’d like to experience. You can also buy multi-day passes to take unlimited tours at your leisure.
5. Hanauma Bay – one of the best places to visit in Oahu
This was by far one of my favorite places to visit in Oahu. We absolutely loved Hanauma bay and spent literally the entire day swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. Hanauma Bay is a geological formation created out of volcanic eruptions in Honolulu. Its spectacular scenery and rich marine life make it one of the top things to see in Waikiki.
There are plenty of activities for you to do at Hanauma Bay. You can snorkel with fish or go on a catamaran excursion around the bay. You can also take surfing lessons here! Or simply enjoy a sunset cruise with your loved one.
Note: The bay is closed on Tuesdays. The car park does fill up pretty quick so I would highly recommend you go there first thing in the morning. Aim to be there by 9 or even before if you can. You can spend a whole day or at least the morning here. It does get quite hot later in the day as there isn’t a lot of shade. Carry plenty of water and snacks here as there aren’t too many options for food/drink. It’s a slight walk down to the bay so if you are traveling with kids, just be mindful of this.
6. Stroll along Kalakaua Avenue
Waikiki’s main street, Kalakaua Avenue, is a long street that runs parallel to the beach. It stretches from downtown Honolulu to Kapiolani Park. Kalakaua Avenue is where all the action takes place and is considered the heart and soul of Waikiki.
You don’t have to go far to experience all the action. This street has a number of hotels, restaurants, bars, and shops. The best part is you don’t even need a car to get around since everything is so close. It’s the perfect place to take an evening stroll or do some window shopping. You’ll find a variety of shops here from high-end boutiques to small independent Hawaiian stores. You’ll find places like the International Market place, Waikiki Shopping Centre, and the Royal Hawaiian Shopping center in close proximity.
There are plenty of places to eat on this stretch including ‘The Cheesecake Factory, Maui Brewing, P.F Changs” amongst many others. If you’re looking for a nice rooftop bar, grab a drink at the famous SKY Waikiki Raw & Bar. The views from here are simply spectacular.
7. Watch a Hula Show
We happened to come across a Hula Show when we were walking back to our hotel after dinner. Find a spot around Kuhio Beach Stage, and watch a hula show that takes place during the sunset hour. (Located on the ocean side of Kalakaua Avenue near the Duke Kahanamoku Statue, diagonally across from the Hyatt Regency hotel). The show lasts for about an hour and generally takes place on Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday, roughly from 6:30-7:30 pm (6:00-7:00 Nov-Dec-Jan) .
Once the sun goes down, the tiki torches are lit, and the conch shells are blown. It’s such a fun thing to experience. It’s free of cost as the show is put up by the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort. Just make sure you arrive early to get a good seat and experience Authentic Hawaiian music and hula shows by Hawaii’s finest halau hula (dance troupes) and Hawaiian performers.
If you enjoy this, then consider checking out the Polynesian Cultural Center on the other side of the island which is a great place to see traditional dance.
8. Kapiolani Park
This beautiful park divides Waikiki from the small residential area on the southwest side of Diamond Head. Within the park, you’ll find a number of family attractions, including the Waikiki Zoo and Waikiki Aquarium, but the main highlight is the Queen Kapiolani Garden, which is home to a beautiful assortment of flowering plants.
For some of the best views of Diamond Head, visit Kapiolani Park. It’s the perfect destination to walk around and enjoy Hawaii’s natural beauty. In this garden, you’ll find native Hawaiian plants as well as plants from other parts of the world.
If you are looking to have a laid-back day, head to the park with a picnic basket and relax there for the day. There’s always something going on in the park including shows and concerts. It’s a great place to visit in Oahu for families.
9. Iolani Palace
The beautiful Iolani Palace was once home to Hawaii’s last reigning kings and queens. It’s one of the most unique things to do in Oahu. You can take a tour of the interior and the exterior grounds. The interior tour includes galleries, drawing rooms, and sitting rooms. Its luxurious interior features ornate furniture, crowns, jewelry, and weapons. You can even visit sites of historical importance like the lanai where Queen Lili’uokalani used to take evening walks during her house arrest in 1895.
This historic landmark exudes magnificence and is well worth a visit. Set in the civic center in downtown Honolulu, it provides a fascinating glimpse into Hawaiian culture.
10. Go Snorkelling
What I love about Hawaii is the number of snorkeling spots you’ll find around the islands. And there just happens to be one on Waikiki Beach! The best spot along this long stretch is on the southern end in the Waikiki Marine Conservation District, by the Waikiki Aquarium.
The best place to enter the water is at Queen’s Beach, where the reef is visible from the shore. There are a number of tour companies that make it easy for beginners to see the natural reefs. They take you out on an hour-long tour and include equipment making it easy enough to go snorkeling.
A popular reef known for its population of green sea turtles is Turtle Canyon. You can book a tour to take you down there. You’ll see an abundance of coral, a variety of fish amongst other things.
Other areas that are well known for snorkeling are Hanauma Bay and Shark’s Cove.
11. Chinatown
Honolulu’s Chinatown was founded in the 1800s after an influx of immigrants came to work on the island’s sugar plantations. Today, it’s grown into a vibrant community with markets, restaurants, and religious shrines. It’s also the perfect spot to eat lunch at one of the Asian restaurants.
After lunch, head towards the waterfront area and to the Aloha Tower from which you’ll get excellent views of the city and surrounding area.
12. Halona Blowhole
What a unique natural occurrence caused by the volcanic eruptions in Oahu from thousands of years ago! Hālona means “lookout,” in Hawaiian. Here you’ll be able to watch as the waves crash into the rocks and create a blowhole where water is forced to shoot up and out of the rocks.
13. Swim with the Sea Turtles
There’s no shortage of areas for snorkeling and swimming in Waikiki. The beaches have beautiful clear water with colorful fish that makes it look like you are swimming with Nemo. Waikiki beaches are relatively shallow and calm because of the protection from surrounding reefs.
If you want to swim with turtles book a tour to avoid disappointment. It’s truly one of the best things to do in Hawaii. Just make sure you pack reef-safe sunblock to keep you and the coral safe!
14. North Shore
If you don’t make it to the North Shore of Oahu, you will miss out on some of the best Oahu attractions. Your journey along the North Shore will begin at the town of Haleiwa. You’ll have time to stop in town before continuing northeast along the Kamehameha Highway. This is a small historic town one I would highly recommend walking through. You’ll see people selling leeches and acai bowls along the road. Be sure to stop and get some.
There are so many attractions on the North Shore of Oahu, that it’s well worth dedicating a day or two to get through them. With so much to offer, it’s one of the top places to visit in Oahu.
15. Visit the Plantation Fields at Dole Plantation
In 1899, James Dole moved to Honolulu from Massachusetts and purchased 64 acres of land in the central plains of Oahu. After trying several experimental crops, he settled on pineapple. This was the beginning of the pineapple empire.
The Dole Plantation is one of Oahu’s top attractions and welcomes more than one million visitors a year. It provides enjoyable activities for the entire family, including the narrated Pineapple Express Train Tour, the Plantation Garden Tour, and the Pineapple Garden Maze (known as the world’s largest maze). You can indulge in some food and refreshments including the world-famous Dole Whip. You can also purchase fresh pineapple to take home.
16. Indulge in Garlic Shrimp at Giovanni’s Shrimp Shack
I’m all about indulging in local cuisine when I visit a new place. Giovanni’s Shrimp came highly recommended and it certainly did not disappoint. The shrimp are marinated in oil, and fresh garlic, and drizzled with garlic-lemon butter. It is served with a side of white rice. In fact, it was so good, that we stood in line for the second time to get another round of shrimp. Eating shrimp here is an absolute must. It’s the most well-known shrimp truck on the island. There are also other options like hot and spicy shrimp, lemon-butter shrimp, and a jumbo garlic hot dog.
It’s the perfect pit stop when you are on your way to the North Shore. Grab lunch or dinner.
Note: They only accept cash so make sure you carry some with you when you plan to visit the truck.
17. North Shore Beaches
The North Shore is home to some of the biggest waves in the world. So, most surfers make it a point to visit some of the beaches in the area.
· Sunset Beach
This two-mile stretch of sand is considered one of the longest-rideable surf spots in the world.
· Waimea Bay Beach Park
Waimea Bay is famous for its 30 – foot waves. I’d say even if you aren’t a surfer make your way to catch a glimpse of these waves. You’ll often see pro surfers tackling these big waves. The waves are the biggest during the winter months (November to April). During the summer months, the waters are a lot calmer making it an ideal destination for swimming, and snorkeling.
· Ehukai Beach (Banzai Pipeline)
This beach is known for powerful waves that break over a sharp reef no more than a few feet from the surface. These massive tubes make this one of the most dangerous surf spots in the world. It is also one of the venues for the Triple Crown of Surfing.
· Haleiwa Beach Park
This beach has some of the calmer waters of the North Shore beaches.
· Kawela Bay/ Turtle Bay
Located on Oahu’s north-eastern tip, past Haleiwa, and near Kahuku, Turtle Bay is a great place to swim and snorkel. You may even get a glimpse of the turtles that lay on the shore.
18. Polynesian Cultural Center
The Polynesian Cultural Centre is a living history museum with six villages, each representing the culture of a Polynesian island, including Hawaii, Tahiti, Samoa, Fiji, Tonga, and Aotearoa (Maori for New Zealand). It is spread out across 42 acres along Oahu’s North Shore and its nightly dinners provide the ultimate luau experience.
The Polynesian Cultural Center’s nightly ‘Ha Breath of Life Show’ is considered a must-see attraction on Oahu, as it features a colorful display of Polynesian dances, music, and blazing fire displays.
Visitors can enjoy hands-on activities within the center, as well as watching traditional dance, and participate in an authentic luau. It’s definitely an experience and one of the top attractions in Oahu for those looking to immerse themselves in Hawaiian Culture.
19. Spot Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles at Laniakea Beach
If you are looking to have an encounter with Hawaii’s famous green turtles, head to Laniakea Beach. Laniakea Beach is located on Oahu’s North Shore. It is also referred to as Turtle Beach as you can frequently spot turtles basking in the sun on its shore. It’s said they love the area as it provides a feeding ground with all of the kelp and green moss that grows on the rocks.
It’s one of the must-do things on Oahu, especially for families traveling with young kids. Once you’ve admired the magnificence of the turtles you can walk down the beach about 300 feet to discover a beautiful stretch of sand for sunbathing and swimming.
Note: It is against the law to touch, or get too close to the turtles
20. Makapu’u Point Trail
The scenic Makapu’u Point Trail is about a 15-minute car ride from Hanauma Bay. The moderately easy trail winds along the rocky shoreline of the south-eastern tip of Oahu and ends at a lookout above the Makapu’u lighthouse. From the Lighthouse you can watch whales (from December to May), or spot seabirds of different kinds. You’ll definitely be rewarded with spectacular coastal views throughout the entire hike. This popular trail is one of the top places to visit in Oahu especially if you are looking to get some postcard views.
Note: The trail is wide, paved, and well maintained, making it a fairly easy walk.
21. East Coast Beaches
Oahu’s East Coast, also known as Windward Coast, is located 30 minutes from Waikiki and Honolulu. The East Shore extends from Makapu’u Point and Lighthouse on the south-eastern point of the island, all the way to Kahana Bay which adjoins the area known as the North Shore.
Spend the day visiting the beautiful beaches in the area including Waimanalo Beach, Kalama Beach, Kailua Beach, and Lanikai Beach. This was one of our favorite areas on the island and one often missed by visitors. We loved it so much, that we went back a few times. Great to spend the day with family or friends and enjoy swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling. The East Coast has some of the best beaches in Oahu, so be sure to take your camera along.
Lanikai Beach
This beach is a little treasure and one of the best beaches in Oahu and also the world! It should be a must on your Oahu bucket list with its fine white sand and crystal-clear blue waters. Lanikai means heavenly sea in Hawaiian, and it is just that. The beach has a very family-friendly atmosphere so it’s the perfect place for those traveling with kids. It is arguably one of the best places to visit in Oahu. Spend a day relaxing in this paradise.
Note: There are no parking lots or facilities here. You’ll have to hunt for a safe street car park and make your way to the beach via the pedestrian walkways. It’s definitely worth the effort.
Kailua Beach
This beautiful beach stretches for 2.5 miles and features turquoise blue waters and white sand. It is one of Oahu’s most beautiful beaches and is located right next to Lanikai Beach.
This beach is known for its water sports activities such as kitesurfing and windsurfing. There are also kayaks and sailboats for hire on the beach. The great part about this beach is it has bathroom facilities, beach showers, and picnic tables, making it the perfect place to spend the day.
Afterward, you can explore downtown Kailua, which is not too far from the beach.
Waimanalo Beach
This beach is on the way to Kailua when you’re coming from Waikiki, so you can also make a stop here on your way. This slice of paradise has beautiful white sand and crystal-clear waters. The beach has ample parking and plenty of amenities like picnic areas, pavilions, and restrooms. Another great beach for families.
Always carry plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen when visiting beaches for the day.
22. Cool Down with Hawaiian Shave Ice
Shave ice is one of the most refreshing treats to enjoy in Oahu. It is a signature Hawaii experience and is a perfect way to cool down on a hot day. You definitely have to try it at least once during your time in Hawaii.
There are a number of establishments that offer Shave Ice. Below are a few places you can try.
· Matsumoto Shave Ice
This place is the longest-running North Shore Hawaiian shave ice shop (since 1951). There a so many flavors to choose from including unique options like guava, cotton candy, and coconut.
Located: Kamehameha Highway, Suite 605, Haleʻiwa
· Waiola Shave Ice
This shave ice place has two locations but no matter which you visit there’ll always be a long line. This place is popular with locals and visitors and serves a long list of flavors and toppings. From memory, this place also takes cash only.
Location: 2135 Waiola St., Honolulu
· Island Vintage Shave Ice
What’s great about Island Vintage Shave Ice is that they serve the shave ice with fresh fruits and syrups. They have some incredible combinations like coconut and mango and matcha and yuzu. Best of all it’s located on Kalākaua Ave! Perfect for when you are strolling down the street or for an after-dinner treat.
Location: 2201 Kalākaua Ave
Shopping In Waikiki
23. International Market Place
The International Market Place is a collection of shops in Waikiki. This place used to have a number of stalls and cheap stores. These days the cheap stores have been replaced by higher-end stores like Saks Fifth Avenue, Burberry, Swarovski, and other boutiques. The open-air food court remains under the big banyan tree.
24. Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center
The Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center is located in central Waikiki. It is situated on the south side of Kalakaua Avenue and contains clothing stores, boutiques, jewelry stores, and restaurants.
This modern shopping complex is a great place to walk around even if you aren’t in the mood for shopping. There is live entertainment in the evenings so you can sit down in one of the open areas and just take in the atmosphere.
25. Shop at Ala Moana Centre
With over 350 stores, the Ala Moana Center is the biggest shopping mall on the island of Oahu. You’ll find many luxury brands housed within its open-air plaza. If you are serious about getting some shopping done, this is the place to be. You’ll need to set aside at least one day to get through the mall. They have a hula show every day a 1 pm on the center stage in case you are after a bit of a cultural experience.
Ala Moana also has a massive food court and some lovely restaurants. If you have the time, I’d recommend paying this place a visit for some amazing shopping.
More Time In Honolulu
If you have more time in Honolulu, check out these attractions in Waikiki.
Honolulu Zoo
The Honolulu Zoo is a 42-acre zoo featuring hundreds of animals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. It’s one of the top places to visit in Oahu. The zoo represents three tropical zones: the African Savannah, tropical rainforests, and island ecosystems. The grounds also include a huge variety of tropical plants. In addition, the zoo also has native Hawaiian animals such as the Hawaiian Goose, Nene, and the Hawaiian Hawk, in residence.
The zoo also has shows and tours, including “twilight tours” taken after-hours. It’s the perfect family-friendly activity in Waikiki. You can find more information here. Each day, a variety of events and animal encounters happen within the zoo. Check out the zoo calendar to know when certain animals are more active.
Waikiki Aquarium
The aquarium is one of the best things to do with kids in Oahu. It was built right along the shoreline of a living coral reef, and its dazzling coral collection is a visitor highlight.
The Aquarium is home to over 3,500 organisms including clownfish, seahorses, sea snakes, jellyfish, and more. There are several exhibitions at the aquarium. You can see native Hawaiian aquatic plants, living reefs, coral farms, and many different sea animal species.
It’s a great place to learn more about the marine life that makes itself at home in the Hawaiian Islands. Tickets are reasonably priced. You can find more information here.
Although we personally didn’t have time to hit either of these attractions, visiting the Honolulu Zoo and Waikiki Aquarium are both fun things to do in Waikiki—especially with kids!
Stairway to Heaven Hike
The Haiku Stairs, also known as the “Stairway to Heaven” in Oahu, used to be one of the most popular (but controversial) hikes in Hawaii. The hike is currently off-limits and is now illegal due to private land ownership and liability issues. I’ve listed it here as you will come across it but should be aware it is no longer something you can do.
Waikele Premium Outlets
A must-visit if you are a shopaholic! If you don’t have a car, Roberts Hawaii provides a shuttle that will pick you up from certain hotels for a small fee.
There are some big brand names such as Kate Spade, Coach, DKNY, Armani Exchange, Adidas, Converse, Ralph Lauren, and Tommy Hilfiger just to name a few! If you are in the market for kids’ clothing this is a great place with Carters, Osh Kosh, Tommy Kids, Gap, and Gymboree.
Across the road from the outlets is the Waikele center. Here you will find a large Gap, Old Navy, and Kmart. Set aside a whole day if you have not been here before!
Farmers Markets
If you are into local markets check out some of these markets in Waikiki. Great to grab some fresh tropical fruit and other produce. They also sell ready desserts like sago pudding. Yum!
- Waikiki Hyatt Farmers Market
Open: Mon & Wed, 4–8 pm
Location: 2424 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815
- Kings Village Farmers Market
This is a smaller market and more of a stop and browse. It’s a great way for visitors to sample local favorite sweets & snacks like Poke & Malasadas, along with some fresh produce.
Open: Mon, Wed, Fri – 4.00 PM – 9.00 PM
Location: 131 Kaʻiulani Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815
- Kailua Farmers Market
Open: Thursdays, 4 – 7p.m.
Location: 609 Kailua Rd, Kailua, HI 96734
Where to Stay in Oahu
Figuring out where to stay in Oahu is all part of the fun. Waikiki is the heart and soul of Oahu with the majority of the island’s hotels and apartments situated in this area. If you are looking to be central with easy access to shops, restaurants, and beaches, then I’d recommend you set yourself up in Waikiki. You can find everything from long-term vacation rentals to short-term budget-friendly hotels to the best hostels. There’s certainly no shortage of accommodation options in Waikiki.
Waikiki is the best place to stay for families, couples, and older travelers. Kids have protected beaches to swim in without worrying about huge waves. You’ll even find a few hostels for backpackers. It’s a bit of an all-rounder destination. Another important factor to keep in mind is most tour companies pick you up and drop you off at your hotel lobby in this area.
Some of the top Oahu hotels in Waikiki include:
- Hilton Hawaiian Village
- Sheraton Waikiki
- Aston Waikiki Sunset
- Hyatt Place Waikiki Beach
We stayed at the Aston Waikiki Sunset on Paoakalani Ave. It was located at one end of Waikiki beach but worked perfectly well for us. It was great for taking a stroll every evening along the beach.
On the other hand, some people tend to find Waikiki crowded, touristy, and to be known to have lots of traffic. So, if you are looking for something a bit quieter, consider going beyond Waikiki and Honolulu and exploring areas like South Oahu, Leeward Waianae, and North Shore.
Oahu North Shore is a bit more relaxed and has a laid-back island style. It’s filled with beaches and tropical gardens and provides a calmer atmosphere. You won’t find many luxury hotels in this area. The accommodation generally ranges from cottages to bed and breakfasts, with the exception of one resort at Turtle Bay.
Overview of the regions in Oahu
Best Beaches in Honolulu: Waikiki, Diamond Head, Kahala, and Ala Moana
Waikiki offers the busiest beaches along with dining, surf lessons, and water sports. Diamond Head features excellent swimming, surfing, snorkeling, and family-friendly attractions, including a zoo, aquarium, and a beach park. The beaches in Kahala are calm and ideal for sunbathing and relaxing. And finally, Ala Moana is the best area for young swimmers and snorkelers.
Best Places for Sightseeing in Honolulu: Downtown, Waikiki, Diamond Head
Downtown is the best place for exploring the historic landmarks of Honolulu, cultural museums, and art galleries. While Waikiki offers public artworks depicting Hawaiian life along with a handful of museums, and the Hawaii Army Museum Society. Diamond Head offers the most family-friendly attractions including the zoo, aquarium, and Kapi’olani Beach Park.
Best Places for Shopping in Honolulu: Ala Moana, Waikiki, Kaimuki, Kapahulu
With over 350 stores and restaurants, Ala Moana has stores ranging from great luxury brand clothing and accessories to home goods. You’ll find Royal Hawaiian Shopping Centre, the International Marketplace, and many other boutiques along Kalākaua Ave in Waikiki. For vintage, thrift, and locally made goods, check out the Kaimuki and Kapahulu areas; their main streets are lined with small boutiques selling everything from vintage surfboards and aloha shirts to hand-made jewelry and used ukuleles.
Best Places for Food and Nightlife in Honolulu: Waikiki, Ala Moana, Kaimuki, Kapahulu, Downtown
Waikiki and Ala Moana are home to most of Honolulu’s restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. The Kaimuki and Kapahulu areas are filled with local diners while Downtown offers a plethora of fine dining restaurants and craft cocktail bars.
Best Things to Do in Oahu with Kids: Waikiki, Diamond Head, Ala Moana
Waikiki no doubt provides the perfect balance of activities from shopping, family-friendly restaurants, beaches, and accommodation. Diamond Head is a great area to spend the day with kids as it is home to Honolulu Zoo, Waikiki Aquarium, and Kapiolani Park. It also has a popular hiking trail up to the summit of a dormant volcano (doable with older kids). Ala Moana has great beaches and a large open-air mall making it a popular destination for families to visit.
Best Places and Things to Do in Oahu for Couples: Waikiki, Diamond Head, Kahala
With the number of restaurants, cocktails bars, and luxury hotels in Waikiki, this place is the perfect area for couples to chill out or have a romantic evening at one of the finer restaurants. Couples can also make their way to Diamond head and spend the morning hiking in Oahu. This is one of the best hikes in Oahu as it’s moderately easy and the views you are rewarded with are simply spectacular. You’ll also find some more relaxed, quieter beaches and other attractions in this area. Kahala is a wonderful area with beachfront fine dining, stylish bars, and secluded beaches that makes it a great place with plenty of things to do in Oahu for couples.
Best free things to do in Oahu
We all know Hawaii isn’t the cheapest holiday destination. However, there are a number of free attractions in Oahu. Read this detailed guide to find some of the top free things to do in Oahu.
Tips For Travelling to Hawaii
- Traveling during low seasons (mid-April to mid-June and mid-September to mid-December) will definitely save you money on accommodation among other things in Hawaii.
- You can visit discount grocery stores or ABC stores which have everything from clothing, food, and drinks to basic necessities.
- Find deals online for food, activities, and tourist sites.
- Book well in advance to ensure you are getting the best deals.
Other Islands in Hawaii
Hawaii is known as America’s tropical paradise and is made up of a number of islands. Each one has something different to offer. From surfing on Oahu to the wonders of Maui and the shopping and nightlife in Honolulu, Hawaii is a great tropical escape for those wanting a mid-winter break or even just a getaway. Whatever the reason for your visit, the islands in Hawaii have you covered and offer an endless number of things to do. It’s definitely one of my favorite places to visit for a tropical getaway. While Oahu is the main island most tourists flock to, here is a little about some of the other islands in Hawaii in case you are looking to visit more than just one island.
The Big Island
There are two major destinations on Big Island: Kailua-Kona on the west side, and Hilo on the east. Kailua-Kona offers a vast selection of accommodation and access to all the beaches, cultural sites, and activities. Whereas, Hilo is closer to the popular Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
Maui
If you are looking for luxury, Maui has some great five-star resorts. In addition, Maui also provides budget-friendly accommodation and bed and breakfasts. Most of the luxury options are situated on the west coast near Kaanapali. No matter where you stay on this island, you’ll have prime access to the spectacular beaches Maui is known for.
Kauai
Kauai is split into three regions and is filled with great beaches and lush green scenery. The North Shore tends to house upmarket accommodation, the Coconut Coast offers more affordable options, while the South Side features hotels and a selection of holiday rentals.
Best Places To Eat In Oahu
Without a doubt, there are some spectacular restaurants around Oahu. Hawaii’s most-visited island offers a range of cuisines offering visitors everything from Japanese to Portuguese cuisine. Here are some of the best places to eat in Oahu, everything thing from fine dining to some of the local’s favorites.
House Without A Key: This waterfront restaurant is located at the Halekulani Hotel and is the perfect place to watch the sunset over drinks
Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck: There’s an abundance of shrimp trucks in Oahu, but Giovanni’s was the first one and is still one of the most popular shrimp trucks on the island. The trucks can be found in three different locations around the island, but the Kahuku Sugar Mill located on the North Shore is the original and our favorite. Some popular options to try are butter lemon shrimp, shrimp scampi, or hot and spicy shrimp. This is definitely one of the best places to visit in Oahu, especially if you like shrimp.
Matsumoto’s Shave Ice: While you’re in Haleiwa, stop by Matsumoto’s for shave ice. It is one of the most popular places to get shave ice on the island.
Shaka Bowls: This food truck serves some of the best fresh poke bowls and açaí bowls on the island. Their location and times constantly change, so it can be a bit tricky to find them.
Leonard’s Bakery: Leonard’s Bakery is famous for its malasadas (Portuguese donuts). Get one dusted with cinnamon sugar, it’s simply delicious. You can find malasadas at other bakeries around the island, but Leonard’s is the original and still the best.
Sunrise Shack: This roadside stand serves fresh organic smoothies, bowls, and coffee.
Fatboys: If you are looking for Hawaiian comfort food, Fatboy’s is famous for its plate lunches which include a combo platter of white rice, mac salad and your choice of savory entrée. They also serve garlic shrimp here. Yum!
The Pig and The Lady: The menu here consists of Vietnamese and Southeast Asian flavors. The pho French dip and the brisket are must-try here.
Helena’s Hawaiian Food: You’ll find classic Hawaiian soul food based around native Hawaiian staple dishes. Some highlights are kalua pig (smoky pulled pork), poi (taro in a pudding-like consistency), and Helena’s legendary pipikaula—meaty short ribs dried and then pan-fried.
Sushi Sho: At the restaurant, you’ll find omakase-style meals, pairing varying types of seasoned rice with more than 40 kinds of fresh fish. Plates pair perfectly with the impressive sake selection. One of the top places to visit in Oahu for a date night.
Cheesecake Factory: A restaurant has a menu that’s like a novel and offers cheesecakes that are to die for! Try the Dark Chocolate or Mango cheesecake, it is amazing and will feed two people! The cheesecake factory usually has the longest waiting time however it is worth it!
Other great eateries include Buffalo wings, P.F.Changs, Maui Brewing, Red Lobster, California Pizza Kitchen, Maguro Brothers.
And there you have it, 25 top places to visit in Oahu. Now that you have a comprehensive list of all these amazing things to do while you’re on Oahu, you can start planning your trip to this tropical paradise. There is a lot to see and do on Oahu, so pace yourself. It’s ok to take a day off and have a “beach day”, whether you decide to just relax at the beach or pool.
Mahalo!
25 Top Places to Visit in Oahu
- Waikiki Beach
- Climb Diamond Head
- Pearl Harbour
- Jump on a Waikiki Trolley Hop-on Hop-Off Tour
- Hanauma Bay
- Stroll along Kalakaua Avenue
- Watch a Hula Show
- Kapiolani Park
- Iolani Palace
- Go Snorkelling
- Chinatown
- Halona Blowhole
- Swim with Sea Turtles
- Visit the North Shore of Oahu
- Visit the Plantation Fields at Dole Plantation
- Indulge in Garlic Shrimp at Giovanni’s Shrimp Shack
- North Shore Beaches
- Polynesian Cultural Center
- Spot Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles at Laniakea Beach
- Makapu’u Point Trail
- East Coast Beaches
- Cool Down with Hawaiian Shave Ice
- International Market Place
- Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center
- Shop at Ala Moana Shopping Centre
Note: The information here is updated the best we can at the time of writing this article. Please check attractions, activities, and transport before you can as things tend to change from time to time.
