24 Top Free Things To Do In Oahu, Hawaii
Hawaii is definitely not the cheapest of holiday destinations that’s for sure. But the great thing is there are so many free things to do in Oahu, it makes your trip just a little more affordable. With its natural beauty and tropical climate, you will want to spend most of your time outdoors. This is perfect for some of those free activities.
Discover the sights, sounds, tastes, culture, history, nature, and adventure of the island of Oahu. Find all the fun things to do in Oahu without the extensive spending. For such an expensive place to visit, there are actually a number of cheap or free things to do in Oahu.
To further help you with your planning, I’ve separated these attractions by location on the island. You can find great free things to do in Honolulu, on the North Shore, and on Oahu’s Windward Coast! Whether you’re interested in visiting local attractions, adventures, or simply relaxing at the beach, here’s a list of the top free things to do in Oahu.
24 Top Free Things to Do in Oahu
What to do in Oahu for free? Below is a list of the top free things to do in Oahu. Most of these free attractions in Oahu are relatively easy to get to. You don’t need to spend a lot of money or join expensive tours to visit these attractions.
Free Things to Do in Honolulu
1. Spend the day relaxing at Waikiki Beach
Spend the day at Waikiki beach, one of the best beaches in Oahu. Whether you stay in Waikiki or elsewhere, you are bound to spend some time exploring the area. And you definitely can’t miss spending time at one of the top attractions in Oahu.
Waikiki is located in southern Honolulu and is one of the most iconic destinations in Hawaii. This spot is one of the most popular things to do in Oahu for free and can often get quite saturated with locals and tourists relaxing, swimming, or surfing at the beach.
2. Climb Diamond Head
You’ll find some of the best hikes in Oahu in the Honolulu area. Climbing Diamond Head is one of the most popular attractions to do in Waikiki. The hike will cost you a small entry fee and you will need to pay to park your car in the designated parking area. This is one of the most popular hikes in Honolulu providing spectacular views of Waikiki.
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 it 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 and sunscreen!
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.
3. Visit Pearl Harbor
Yes, you read right. There are parts of Pearl Harbor, such as the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, two museums, and the U.S.S. Arizona Memorial that are free to visit. This is of the most popular places to visit in Oahu and one of the top free things to do in Oahu.
In order to get free tickets to Pearl Harbor, you need to make a reservation online in advance. Visiting Pearl Harbor is truly one of the best things to do in Oahu and an experience like no other.
Note: The rest of the attractions (like the Battleship Missouri and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum) have a fee.
4. DIY Walking Tour of Honolulu
One of the great things about exploring a place is to go on a walking tour of the area yourself. Walking through downtown Honolulu is one of the top free things to do in Oahu where you can explore the attractions in the area on your own. You’ll get a peek into the architecture and history of the historic district in Honolulu. Just mark out all your attractions in the area in advance and plan your route, then you’re ready to go.
5. Spend the Day at Kapi’olani Park
Kapi’olani Park is one of the largest public parks on Oahu. Stroll through the park or ride a bicycle. Even better, carry a picnic and spend the day relaxing as you people watch.
6. Visit Manoa Falls Trail
Manoa Falls is just a short drive from downtown and a relatively easy hike. Truly one of the best things to do in Oahu for free. While the trail itself is free you’ll need to pay a small fee to park your car in one of the designated parking areas. Totally worth it as the hike passes through beautiful scenic landscapes through bamboo forests before you get to the stunning waterfall.
Note: Carry proper footwear, insect repellent, water, sunscreen, and a hat. Arrive first thing in the morning if you want to avoid large crowds of tourists.
7. Stroll along Kalakaua Avenue
One of the best things to do in Oahu for free is to stroll down Kalakaua Boulevard in Waikiki. Enjoy a morning or late evening stroll around the main area on Kalakaua Ave. There’s never a dull moment here with plenty of shops, street performers, and delicious shave ice you can treat yourself to. An easy and great activity to do with kids in Oahu.
8. Watch the Fireworks at Waikiki
Every Friday night, a free show is held on the beach that is sponsored by the Hilton Hawaiian Village. This free show is spectacular and is held next to the resort on the beach and lasts for approximately 10 minutes. Just make sure you get to the beach early to find the best spot for viewing the show. It’s the perfect thing to do in Oahu with kids. Don’t miss these fireworks as it’s one of the top free things to do in Oahu and one of Oahu’s most popular attractions.
9. Check out the Duke Kahanamoku Statue
The Olympic gold medal swimmer is also known as the father of modern surfing. The bronze statue of Duke Kahanamoku can be found at Kuhio Beach.
10. Watch a free Hula Show
Luau’s are one of the most expensive tourist attractions in Hawaii. But if you want to watch a Hula show you are in luck as you can catch a free Hula show at one of the places listed below.
- Ala Moana Center (daily at 1 PM)
- Royal Hawaiian Center (Saturdays at 5:30 PM)
- Kuhio Beach Hula Mound. You’ll find this show takes place close to the Duke statue on the beach. (Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday from 6:30 pm to 7:30pm (6:00pm to 7:00pm Nov-Dec-Jan))
Many of the performers come from local hula halau’s (hula schools) to perform for free at these various venues. Enjoying authentic Hawaiian culture is one of my favorite free things to do in Oahu!
11. Explore Chinatown
Walk through Chinatown and explore one of the oldest Chinatowns in the USA here in Honolulu. You’ll get a fascinating look at noodle factories, herbal shops, and markets while you are at it.
12. Royal Hawaiian Center
The Royal Hawaiian Center is located in the heart of Honolulu near Waikiki Beach. This is a great place to walk around, shop, dine, and learn about Hawaiian culture. They offer free events including ukulele lessons, hula dancing, lei making, and weaving!
Free Things to do on the North Shore
13. Take a photo at the Haleiwa sign
One of the most popular things to do in Oahu is to take an Instagramable photo in front of the Haleiwa sign. There are two versions: the surfer girl Haleiwa sign is located at 62-330 Kamehameha Hwy, while the surfer boy is at 62-400 Joseph P. Leong Hwy. Be cautious when taking your photos here as these signs are placed along the side of the highway.
14. Watch a beautiful sunset from one of the best beaches in Oahu
One of the best things to do in Oahu for free is to enjoy a beautiful sunset at one of the many beautiful beaches on the island. It’s the best way to end a long day after sightseeing. Take some drinks and food and enjoy a nice picnic as you watch the sunset.
15. Catch a glimpse of the Turtles at Laniakea Beach
Laniakea Beach, also known as “Turtle Beach” is a great spot to observe Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles. The best time of day to try to see the sea turtles is during lunchtime, between 11 a.m.-1 p.m, especially during the summer months. Another possible time to observe the turtles is around sunset. Do not touch the turtles or harm them in any way. Hawaiʻi’s Division of Aquatic Resources recommends keeping a distance of at least 3 meters (10 feet) from the turtles. This is one of the top free things to do in Oahu and should be on everyone’s Oahu sightseeing list.
16. Watch the huge waves and surfers at Banzai Pipeline.
Visiting the Banzai Pipeline is one of the best free things to do on Oahu. Even if you aren’t a surfer, it’s enjoyable to watch the big waves in the ocean. This North Shore beach attracts top-level surfers from all over the world. If you aren’t a pro surfer I’d recommend you just pick a good spot on the beach and enjoy the professionals at their best.
17. Go snorkeling and diving at Shark’s Cove
One of the most popular attractions in Oahu is going snorkeling. One is spoilt for choice with there being so many great beaches in Oahu. Snorkeling can be done around the island at various places where the tropical fish and coral still thrive.
Shark’s Cove has some of the best snorkeling on the island. You can find all sorts of marine life including colorful fish, sea turtles, eels, and more. You definitely won’t come across sharks as the name suggests, so no need to panic. The name Shark’s cove comes from the shape of the reef surrounding it, which looks like a shark from above.
The best time to visit this area for snorkeling or swimming is during the summer months. If you own snorkeling gear, be sure to carry this along with you for a completely free experience. Otherwise, you can always rent snorkeling equipment which is fairly reasonable making this activity one of the best cheap things to do in Oahu.
Note: This is a rocky beach, and not great for little children. Some of the other popular places to snorkel are Hanauma Bay, Lanikai Beach, Waimea Bay, and Kahe Point Beach.
18. Dole Plantation
Visiting the Dole Plantation is one of the best things to do in Oahu. While there are many paid tours for the train ride and maze, the gift shop and store are open to all. You can also walk around the grounds and see a few pineapple plants.
Free Things to do at Windward Coast
19. Sunbathe and swim at Lanikai Beach or Kailua Beach Park.
Lanikai Beach and Kailua Beach Park are two of Oahu’s best beaches. Bonus, they are both located right next to each other. Both beaches are great for relaxing and swimming.
Did you know Lanikai Beach is often considered the most beautiful beach in Oahu? The only issue here is you’ll have to park along the street in the residential areas leading to the beach as the beach itself doesn’t have designated parking. Watch out for the various parking signs as you don’t want to have your vehicle towed away or receive a ticket. Lanikai beach also doesn’t have any public bathrooms, so something to be aware of when visiting. I’d still highly recommend visiting this beach and then moving on to Kailua Beach.
However, Kailua Beach is just down the road and has a designated parking lot, beach showers, and picnic tables, making it the perfect place to spend the day. If you are an adrenaline junkie you can participate in windsurfing or kite surfing.
20. Hike Makapu‘u Point Lighthouse Trail.
Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail is admittedly one of the best things to do in Oahu for free with the whole family. The hike is only a 30-minute drive from downtown Honolulu and provides spectacular views of the ocean. The hike is 2 miles long and moderately easy to complete making it one of the best hikes in Oahu.
And if you happen to be visiting from December to April, there’s a chance you’ll even be able to spot a humpback whale! This is such a great activity and one of the best things to do in Oahu for families.
Note: Pack plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat as this trail is mostly exposed to the sun and wind.
21. Koko Crater Trail
The Koko Crater Trail lies on the Windward Coast of Oahu. This trail features more than 1000 steps that are made from abandoned railroad ties. At the summit, you’ll find beautiful panoramic views of Hanauma Bay Natural Preserve and Diamond Head Monument.
Note: The trail is a bit steep and some parts are a bit slippery, especially on a wet day. So if you aren’t in the best shape you may want to skip this one.
22. Visit Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden
The Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden is part of Honolulu Botanical Gardens and is a top free attraction in Oahu. The gardens are filled with lush landscapes and surrounded by mountains providing a serene and calm environment. You can drive to numerous different trailheads, lookouts, or even camp overnight. Explore the gardens at your own pace.
23. 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.
Hālona Blowhole is located along the eastern shore of Oahu. It’s one of the most fascinating free things to do in Oahu.
Note: Keep a safe distance as walking near a blowhole is extremely dangerous as the waves are quite strong.
24. Enjoy Window Shopping at One of the Best Shopping Centres
If you are looking for a chilled-out day, one of the fun and cool things to do is to visit a shopping center. Ala Moana is the biggest open-air mall in Hawaii with over 350 shops and restaurants. You can window shop, watch free performances or even grab a nice meal from the food court.
Summary
There you have it, top free things to do in Oahu. These include some of Oahu’s main tourist attractions. So make sure you save this post for when you are planning your trip to Hawaii.
Have you visited other free attractions in Oahu that are not on the list above? If so, comment below.
Happy Travels!
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.
