10 Most Amazing Things To Do In Oahu Hawaii

Oahu is a destination that offers many different activities for the entire family. The Honolulu Zoo, the Waikiki Aquarium, and the See Life Park of Hawaii are just a few of the many attractions the whole family can enjoy together. There are so many other things to do in Oahu Hawaii.

Things to do in Oahu Hawaii

 Things to do in Oahu Hawaii – watching the phenomenal sunsets.

No idea where to stay on Oahu yet? Find the best offers for Hotels in Honolulu.

 

Amazing Things To Do In Oahu Hawaii

1. Entertainment

Located on the sun drenched Hawaiian Island of Oahu, Waikiki Beach is one of the most famous and well known beaches in the entire world, with luxurious hotels and beach clubs set right on the beach.  The famous Kalakaua Avenue, which runs parallel to the beach, offers you a shoppers paradise with fine restaurants and nightly entertainment

Hawaii getaways Hula dancers

Hawaii getaways    – Hula dancers on Kalakaua Avenue.

2. History

Pearl Harbor is a National Historic Landmark.  In fact, is it currently the only naval base that has been designed as one in the United States.  The attack on Pearl Harbor, on December 7, 1941, forever changed America.  Whether you are looking to see the site for yourself, pay tribute to those who lost their lives, or do both, this is a must see attraction for you.

While visiting Pearl Harbor there are more things to do in oahu hawaii. You can take a guided tour through the Battleship Mississippi Memorial, visit the USS Okalahoma Memorial, as well as the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum and Park.

Hawaii getaways packages Pearl Harbor.

 Hawaii getaways packages – include a trip to Pearl Harbor.
O’ahu – Honolulu – Pearl Harbor: USS Missouri and USS Arizona Memorial

 

3. Craters

The Diamond Head is one of Hawaii’s most well-known landmarks.  According to Hawaii’s Official Tourism Site, the name came from the British who believed they found valuable diamonds in the crater.  As it turns out, they were mistaken.

As popular as the Diamond Head State Monument is, this Oahu attraction isn’t right for everyone.  A significant hike is required to get to the crater.  This hike is perfect for those looking for adventure.  The walk includes almost two hundred steps and mysterious underground tunnels.

Hawaii romantic getaways Diamond Head Crater

Hawaii romantic getaways – soar above Diamond Head Crater.

Koko Head Crater is located on the southeast coast of Oahu. This is quite the hike, but amazing views once you got up there though. Get up early to beat the heat of the day.

A perfect alternative to hotel accommodation – self catering apartments & holiday homes on Oahu.

4. Nature Preserve

The Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, located in southern Oahu, is a must visit for all swimmers.  It is known as the perfect destination for snorkeling.  The bay is home to colorful tropical fish, coral reefs, and clear water.

While some children and teenagers are able to snorkel, as it is a relatively easy activity for strong swimmers, caution is advised.  Due to the area earning status of a nature preserve, all visitors are urged to be cautious in and around the water to help keep the area as natural and as beautiful as ever.

Romantic Hawaii getaways - Hanauma Bay

Hanauma Bay

Romantic Hawaii getaways – Hanauma Bay nature preserve.

 

5. Beaches

The Waikiki Beach is shallow and water is calm almost year round, especially in the winter months when the surf stays under three feet.  There are certain parts of the beach that have a life guard on duty watching over swimmers and surfers.

North Shore of Oahu is a must visit for you.  Did you know that many travel websites claim that the North Shore of Oahu is home to some of the best surfing conditions in the world?  Experienced surfers flock to the shores of local beaches and you may even be able to watch professional surfers!

Romantic getaways Hawaii north shore

Romantic getaways Hawaii North Shore of Oahu

Lanikai Beach is quiet and serene with beautiful turquoise water, if you go on the weekdays, weekends are packed.

Hawaii weekend getaways Waikiki Beach

Board Eagle Hawaii weekend getaways Waikiki Beach

6. Hawaii weekend getaways – Waikiki Beach is also known for its gentle waves which are ideal for beginner surfers.  You can rent surfboards and gear on the beach, even take lessons if you have never surfed before. Catamaran rides to and from Diamond Head are also offered by several different companies as well, with depart times varying.  Other activities on your vacation include kayaking, swimming, and outrigger canoeing.

7. Water pressure

Spitting Cave of Portlock is an Oahu attraction off the beaten path, as the cave lies in a residential area (at the end of Lumahai St., Honolulu). It is a hidden gem a world away from the tourist trappings of Waikiki. Bring a picnic and enjoy watching the cave spit every minute or so, a 100-foot jet of water into the air.

 

8. Culture

Oahu Island offers a selection of museums, historical attractions, and several exhibits.  With several villages and culture exhibits and the  Polynesian Culture Center, you can learn anything you desire about the culture of Hawaii.

With so many things to do in Oahu Hawaii of there is always something to do and see. The entire family will love it here, with the island also being perfect for just a lovers vacation.

Cheap Hawaii getaways Polynesian Culture Center

Cheap Hawaii getaways – a visit to the Polynesian Culture Center

9. Royalty

Iolani Palace is classified as an official residence of royalty.  In fact, it is the only one of its kind in the United States.  This, alone, makes the Iolani Palace a national treasure and a must visit.  At one point in time, it was considered the political forefront and home of Hawaii.

The Iolani Palace is located in Honolulu.  When visiting the Iolani Palace, there is so much for you to do and see.  Depending on the day of your visit, you can shop the Palace shop, listen to band concerts, or take a guided tour.

Oahu getaways - visit Iolani Palace in Honolulu

Oahu getaways – visit Iolani Palace in Honolulu

 

10. Horseback Riding

Probably one of the best ways to see the real Hawaii is from the back of a horse. Happy Trails Hawaii is located above North Shore up in the mountains, so you get some awesome 360 degree views, you might even get to see some whales.

win a vacation on Hawaii

No idea where to stay on Oahu yet? Find the best offers for Hotels in Honolulu.


The Iolani Palace, the Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, the North Shore, Pearl Harbor, Diamond Head State Monument … just a few of the many great things to do in Oahu Hawaii. If you’ve never had the pleasure of going to Oahu – there is no better time than now.

 

Photo credit: Foter
Sunset at Hawaii (Oahu) Paloika / Foter / CC BY
Hula dancers LukeGordon1 / CC BY
Pearl Harbor wallyg /CC BY-NC-ND
Diamond Head Crater exfordy / CC BY
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve chibirashka /CC BY-NC-ND
North Shore of Oahu Christopher Lane Photography / CC BY-NC-SA
Board Eagle Trisha Weir / CC BY-NC-SA
Polynesian RW Sinclair / CC BY-NC-SA
iolani palace Honolulu kanu101 / CC BY