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The best things to do in Oahu

It’s finally here! The 10 best things to do in Oahu was highly requested and a long time coming. There are so many fun things to do on Oahu; it was hard to list just ten.

Since there’s so much in the Waikiki area, I have a separate post with 10 things to do in Waikiki.

Before we get started, let me introduce myself. My name is Amy, and I’m a Hawaii Travel Agent. I’m one of the top travel agents for Hawaii, and creating fantastic custom trips in Hawaii is my passion! Contact me today to help plan and book your Hawaii vacation.

DO I NEED A RENTAL CAR on OAHU?

Oahu is the one island in Hawaii where you can get away with not having a rental car. However, I do recommend one so you can get out and explore! You’ll find the best prices anywhere at Discount Hawaii Car Rental. 

Things to do on Oahu

Here are the 10 best things to do on Oahu, listed in no particular order. 

1. Explore Waikiki

Waikiki is arguably the most famous part of the island of Oahu. Many people commonly mistake Waikiki for an island, but it’s a neighborhood in the city of Honolulu on the island of Oahu.

Waikiki is home to many high-end stores such as Gucci and Tiffany and Co. You will also find the popular ABC stores and almost everything in between.

Even though it’s crowded, you’ll want to check out the world-famous Waikiki Beach. The Waikiki Aquarium is often overlooked but is well worth visiting, especially if you’re exploring the island with children.

You’ll also want to make sure you check out the best restaurants in Waikiki.

2. Visit the North Shore

The North Shore of Oahu is known as the Surfing Capital of the World. Surfer or not, it’s one of the most beautiful parts of the island and only an hour’s drive from Honolulu.

If you don’t have a rental car yet, I recommend getting a car through Hawaii Discount Car Rentals for the best prices. 

Far too many visitors in Oahu don’t make it to the North Shore, which I think is a big mistake. Here are a few things you can do on the North Shore:

• Grab a shave Ice from Matsumoto’s
• Dive with Sharks with One Ocean Diving
• Go skydiving
• Hike to Ka’ena Point
• Shop in Haleiwa
• Find sea turtles at Laniakea Beach (also called Turtle Beach)
• Snorkel at Sharks Cove

You can also check out things to do in Haleiwa and the best Oahu Golf Courses.

3. Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial

No trip to Oahu would be complete without a visit to Pearl Harbor. Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona host over 1.5 million visitors annually.

It is a moving experience to visit the USS Arizona Memorial, a spot just above where 1,177 men lost their lives. You’ll also want to check out the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum and Park to tour the World War II submarine.

4. Attend a Luau

Oahu is host to fantastic luaus. There are many popular luaus, including the Paradise Cove Luau at Ko Olina Resort, Mauka Warriors Luau, or Toa Luau at Waimea Valley.

You can check out my other luau recommendations at where to find the best luau in Oahu..

5. Bishop Museum

If you love museums, you won’t want to miss the Bishop Museum.The  Bishop Museum is the largest museum in the state of Hawaii and houses a considerable amount of Polynesian cultural artifacts.

This is one of the historical sites on Oahu and a must for any history buff.

Don’t miss my itineraries for Hawaii if you want insider tips for your vacation, but don’t need a travel agent or have already booked your trip.

Where to book tickets for Hawaii activities

When you’re booking tickets for your Hawaii vacation, there are plenty of options. You want to make sure you book any activities early, but it can be hard to know which sites are legit. 

I book my client’s tickets and activities through Viator as often as possible, or you can also book excursions yourself by clicking here. Viator has a best-price guarantee and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before almost all bookings.

That way, if your plans change, you can cancel or reschedule with no hassle.

You might also enjoy The ultimate Hawaii packing list.

6. Hike to the top of Diamond Head

As someone who loves hiking, you know that I had to put a hike on the list of the best things to do in Oahu!

It takes about an hour to hike to the top of Diamond Head, and it is a mild to moderate hike. Once you reach the top, you’ll have a 365-degree view of Oahu; it’s definitely worth the climb!

If you love hiking and you’ll be going to Kauai, check out the best Kauai hikes. 

7. Visit the Polynesian Cultural Center

If you want to learn about the culture of Polynesia, the Polynesian Cultural Center is a must-see. It is home to the Ali’i Luau and Hawaii’s only IMAX theater.

You might also enjoy the best Hawaii travel tips.

8. Check out the Aloha Stadium swap meet

If you want to grab some fun souvenirs, check out the Aloha Stadium swap meet. Some of the vendors sell items made in China, but you’ll also find some authentic island-made goods.

9. Take a helicopter tour

Many of the most beautiful parts of Oahu can only be seen by air. A helicopter tour will help you appreciate the beauty of Oahu even more.

My favorite is Blue Hawaiian helicopter tours. You can read more of my experience on Blue Hawaiian helicopters in this post, Hawaii helicopter tour: is it worth it?

10. Visit Lanikai Beach

No “best things to do on Oahu” list is complete without a beach. You might be surprised that I am not suggesting Waikiki Beach, but there are many beautiful beaches beyond Waikiki!

Lanikai Beach is located in Kailua town on Oahu’s windward side. Two small islands are home to bird sanctuaries less than a mile offshore. You can even kayak to get a closer look at the islands.

An offshore reef keeps the waters calm all year, which makes this beach perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

The half-mile of white sand is ideal for those who want to spend some time relaxing on the beach. This beach is in a residential area, so arrive early in the morning as parking is limited. Don’t forget to pack your reef-safe sunscreen!

More Hawaii Vacation Ideas

I hope that you enjoyed this list of the 10 best things to do in Oahu. I am a Hawaii Travel Agent, and I’d love to help you plan your honeymoon or vacation! You can contact me if you’d like more information. I would recommend starting with my Hawaii travel guide if you plan to DIY your vacation!

If you’re looking for even more things to do on Oahu, check out 10 free things to do on Oahu.

If you’re still trying to decide which island to visit, don’t miss my post about which Hawaiian island is best.

Want even more Hawaii travel tips? Check out:

• The best pineapple farms to visit in Hawaii
• The Best Restaurants in Oahu
• Where to find a black sand beach in Maui
• 10 Reservations you need to make before going to Hawaii
• 10 things to know before going to Hawaii
• 20 things you should never do in Hawaii
• How much does it cost to go to Hawaii?
• Is Hawaii safe?

The best way to get Hawaii travel tips and the most current travel information is to sign up for my email list. I send out one weekly email with the latest news, travel deals, and more. Sign up below.

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