The Hawaiian Island of Oahu is a popular tourist destination and for countless amazing reasons! From the picturesque scenery of the white sand beaches to the diverse foliage inland, there is an array of stunning sights to take in.
There is also an abundance of activities to do on the island, between the quieter surfer towns to the bustling city of Honolulu which will guarantee that everyone in the group will find something to enjoy during your stay.
We’ve compiled a list that covers all of the island’s must-dos but also includes some of our favorite hidden gems.
The following article will give you pointers for 40 incredible things to do in Oahu!
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1) Snorkel At Turtle Canyon
One of Hawaii’s greatest attractions is the aquatic paradise off its coasts and Turtle Canyon is the perfect place to see this for yourself. Located about a mile off Waikiki Beach, Turtle Canyon offers superb snorkeling with its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life. As the name suggests, you will find plenty of the native Hawaiian green sea turtles in these waters in addition to many species of tropical fish and beautiful coral reefs.
There are many companies that offer tours to take you on a scenic ride on the boat out to see until you reach Turtle Canyon where you will be free to explore the mesmerizing views beneath the water.
Here are a few of our favorite boat excursions to Turtle Canyon!
Turtle Canyons Snorkel Excursion from Waikiki, Hawaii: Highly rated snorkel tour to Turtle Canyons at an amazing price. The staff were incredible, and we saw over 8 turtles!
Waikiki Turtle Snorkel Adventure with Manakai Catamaran: Incredible snorkel tour to Turtle Canyon on a relaxing catamaran
2) Hike To Manoa Falls
Manoa falls is one of our favorite quick and easy hikes on the island which takes you through a lush tropical rainforest with a beautiful waterfall to enjoy at the end. The beginning of the trailhead is a short drive from the city and there is usually plenty of parking which costs $5 for non-Hawaiian residents.
The hike itself is a little over 1.5 miles and takes about an hour round trip with a relatively flat path most of the way so it’s perfect for people of all ages. The surface can be rocky and uneven and with some rainfall there are some muddy patches so be sure to wear decent trainers or other sturdy footwear.
This is a popular hike for good reason so you will see many others along the trail and you may even see people swimming in the waterfall, but this is not recommended due to a bacteria present in the water.
3) Swim WIth Sharks On The North Shore
It’s no secret that Hawaii’s waters are home to many different species of shark and during your time on Oahu you can swim with them get a close look at these sleek predators! The shark diving excursions are found on the north shore, and you will embark on this unique, open-water experience with expert guidance who will be sure to put your nerves at ease and make you forget about your preconceptions. Depending on who you book with, you can go with or without a cage as you take in a rare look at Sandbar and Galapagos sharks in their natural environment.
Book it: Swim with Sharks (Cage Free): This is the ORIGINAL shark snorkeling tour in Oahu (and one of the highest rated)
4) Take A Surfing Lesson At Waikiki Beach
Although it may be a cliche, we don’t think it would be right to leave Hawaii without getting on a surfboard at least once! The idyllic blue waters and world famous waves makes Hawaii one of the best surfing destinations in the world and with that comes many opportunities to take up a lesson for those of all levels. We booked our beginner lesson with… and had an amazing experience. We met our instructor at their surf shop which was a 3 minute walk from Waikiki beach where we were given a quick tutorial on the sand before entering the water. Our group lesson consisted of ourselves and just one other person so we got a lot of one on one tips from our instructor. We surprised ourselves by riding a few waves each on our very first day which was encouraging and heightened our excitement to go again!
5) Explore the “Mermaid Caves”
Having explored the vast majority of Oahu’s coast, the “Mermaid Caves” stand out as being particularly unique and beautiful. Found on the island’s west side, you can access the attraction by making your way to Kalanianaole Beach where you will find a parking lot which often has open spaces.
The beach will be on your right, but the caves can be found if you walk 5 minutes across the lava rock on your left-hand side until you see a number of large holes eroded into the rock. This will be your entry point to reach the grotto below which features terrific turquoise water as the sun shines through the gaps from above.
This is truly a scene straight out of the little mermaid movie! It can be tricky when lowering yourself down as well as climbing back up, so we recommend going with a buddy and definitely check the tidal charts beforehand as it can be dangerous inside at high tide.
We also recommend wearing water shoes as there are a number of jagged stones and rocks as you make your way there. An added bonus is that the nearby beaches are excellent and certainly worth checking out while you’re in this area of the island.
6) Spend a day at Paradise Cove
Paradise Cove is a true hidden gem on Oahu which is ideal for snorkeling as well as spending a quiet day at the beach without large crowds. Located on the west side of the island, it is a 25 minute drive from the city and there are only about 10 parking spaces available which prevents overcrowding so be sure to get there before 10am.
This small cove boasts a beautiful white sand beach with some shade offered from the surrounding trees. The water is very calm with little to no waves which makes it a great place to snorkel for those of all levels.
In addition to many tropical fish, it is common to spot Hawaiian green sea turtles among the coral in these waters and don’t be surprised if you see monk seals swim through and onto the beach to rest. Be sure to give all of the marine life plenty of space and follow all guidance and sign posts on the beach.
7) Attend A Luau
One of Hawaii’s most renowned traditions is enjoying a Luau which is a celebration centered around traditional Hawaiian food and entertainment and is something we strongly recommend attending during your stay.
Oahu has various different options to suit everyone, whether you are looking for an eccentric experience in the city or a more educational and intimate style of Luau further inland. Whatever you choose you can expect a mouthwatering feast of all-you-can-eat food which includes traditional dishes such as Poi or Poke with plenty of other delicious side dishes and entrees.
As you eat and enjoy a drink, you will enjoy the traditional Polynesian entertainment which includes fire shows as well as very impressive dance routines that will ensure the experience will leave a lasting impression.
Here are our top three that we attended:
Best Overall: Paradise Cove Luau
Best Scenery: Toa Luau in Waimea Valley
Most Authentic: Mauka Warriors Luau Honoring Polynesia’s Forgotten History
8) Swim With Dolphins
It’s almost impossible to choose our favorite activity we did in Oahu, but swimming with dolphins definitely ranks towards the top! There are a few options as far as booking with a lot of the tours typically departing from the west side of the island near Wainaie. Transportation from your hotel is included and you will then board a spacious catamaran before setting off in search of Dolphins. Enjoy the amazing view of the island from the water while pods of spinner dolphins swim alongside the boat.
Throughout the day the crew will offer the chance for you to get in the water with snorkel gear (all provided) and observe the families of dolphins even closer. Other marine life such as fish and turtles can often be spotted too on your excursion. If you book during the winter months, you may even be lucky enough to spot whales breaching! Lunch is provided on board too as well as your transportation back to the hotel. Below are two our favorite tours that we did:
9) Watch The Sunset At The China Walls
As far as areas to enjoy the sunset go, Oahu doesn’t offer many better spots than the China Walls in east Honolulu. Officially known as Koko Kai mini beach park, this is comprised of a number of cliffs (no beach) that formed as a result of the island’s extensive volcanic past and is a great spot to hang out with friends, listen to music and enjoy the scenery.
Although you can swim here, it can be tricky to get back out of the water which poses a hazard, so we do not advise this. Keep in mind that there is no shade here and umbrellas are obsolete here due to the lack of sand so make sure to bring sunscreen, a hat and a towel to sit on.
Be wary of the rough waves here even if you are out of the water because they are known to crash over the rocks and knock people over if you are not paying attention. Also be sure to wear good footwear as the walk down the path can be steep with loose gravel. There is usually plenty of street parking in the neighborhood nearby on Hanapepe loop.
10) Adventure At Kualoa Ranch
If you are seeking somewhere that offers amazing scenery as well as plenty of activities, then Kualoa Ranch is where you will want to go. A breathtaking nature reserve on the east side of the island, this cattle ranch is likely a place you have seen on TV as it is where many shows and movies have been shot over the years including the notorious Jurassic Park! During our visit, we booked the Jurassic Adventure tour which took us in an open air bus across the valleys where various iconic movies were filmed. Additionally, our guides educated us about the ancient Hawaiian history of the area as we took in the views of this emerald paradise with the mountains on one side and the ocean on the other. There are a host of other activities to do here such as riding ATV’s, ziplining, and horse-back riding to name just a few! It is definitely worth spending at least half a day here.
11) Visit the Ko Olina Lagoons
On Oahu’s west coast you will find the Ko Olina lagoons which are a must visit for a host of reasons. Firstly, these 4 man-made lagoons are well sheltered from waves which makes it a lovely spot for snorkeling or paddle boarding, particularly if you are a beginner. The area is very spacious with both sand and grass areas to enjoy and features a walkway that stretches a mile and a half between the lagoons which offers a leisurely stroll. There are a number of hotel resorts that have set up by the lagoons such as the Disney resort, the Four Seasons, and the Marriot which gives a really clean feel to the place and is a nice change of pace from the bustling Waikiki area. The lagoons are a 45-minute drive from Waikiki and parking is free but can be limited if you go later in the day, we recommend looking for parking near lagoon 4 where it is more plentiful.
12) Enjoy a Ko Olina Boat Tour
The first excursion that we booked when we arrived on Oahu was the Ko Olina boat tour and it absolutely got our time here off to the right start! On the morning of our tour the company will offer transportation from Honolulu to the west side of the island where your boat will depart from Ko Olina. The boat was a large catamaran which took us out with a group of about 20 others, and it felt really glorious to be sailing in the Hawaiian sunshine with the fresh breeze and outstanding view of Oahu. We got a very cool glimpse of a pod of dolphin’s swimming by our boat in the clear water below, as well as many green sea turtles. The boat ticket included 3 alcoholic beverages each and a lunch too which was as large as it was delicious! The entire crew both on and off the boat were incredibly welcoming and friendly which capped off an all-round perfect day on the water.
13) Hike the Makapu’u lighthouse trail
Located about a 30-minute drive from Honolulu on the southeast side of the island, the Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail offers incredible views of Oahu’s windward coast that you don’t want to miss. The hike starts up a gentle slope which continues throughout and features a wide, paved path so most footwear is suitable here and it is a trail that the whole family can enjoy.
As you make your way up, you will take in the amazing views of the coastline as well as distant valleys and beaches. Keep in mind that there is very little shade on this trail, so we advise bringing a hat and sunscreen. Depending on the time of year you visit, you may even be able to spot whales off the coast! There is parking just off Kalaniana’ole highway but it can fill up quick most days, so we recommend getting here before 11am.
14) Bathe in the Makapu’u Tide pools
As you hike up the trail to the Makapu’u Lighthouse, a fun side quest is to take a dip in the crystal clear Makapu’u tide pools below! To get there, you will stop at the third rest stop along the lighthouse trail where there will be information plaques on whales. To the left of the plaques, you will find the start of the trail and it must be said that this is a relatively challenging hike down so you will need to come prepared. Unlike the paved trail to the lighthouse, the way down to the tide pools is quite rocky, and the trail itself can become unclear at times. A good pair of trainers is a must and we recommend packing a small bag for your possessions. The journey is 100% worth it as just the view of the tide pools carved into the black lava rock with the scenic backdrop is bound to leave you impressed. Swimming here is heavenly and some of the pools are deep enough if you want to jump in off
15) Visit the Pearl Harbor memorial
One of the most infamous historic sites that Oahu has to offer is Pearl Harbor, the site where Japan’s surprise attack took place on December 7th 1941 which initiated the United States’ entrance into the second World War. Though still an active military base, the site is composed of several historic sites and memorials (some of which are free) that are certainly worth seeing during your time in Oahu.
This is a must-see for anyone interested in modern history and the site features a nice mix of visuals, audio, interactive displays, and plenty of interesting artifacts. Located just a 30-minute drive from Waikiki, you can also opt for a number of public bus routes that will take you to Pearl Harbor.
16) Get an açaí bowl on the north shore
Often overlooked by tourists, Oahu’s North Shore is an amazing destination in itself with stunning natural wonders and activities. One thing we loved, in particular, on the North Shore was the delicious Acai Bowls found in the local restaurants, juice shops, and food trucks. Originally a Brazilian dish, it consists of frozen and mashed acai berries along with your choice of various fruits, nuts, granola, yoghurt, and peanut butter. Hawaii’s climate offers perfect conditions for ripe acai berries to grow which makes it a popular snack here and you will not regret trying it for yourself!
17) Take a dip in a waterfall in Waimea Valley
On the north side of Oahu lies the gorgeous Waimea Valley trail which features a waterfall at the end where you can enjoy a refreshing swim. The trail is relatively easy to complete with a paved pathway throughout as you walk through a lush valley featuring many species of exotic Polynesian and Hawaiian plants and trees. There numerous information boards along the trail where you can learn about the plants that you see and how they were useful for the people that once lived in this valley.
Along the trail you will also find some huts that were built to represent the living conditions of ancient Hawaiians which was very interesting to see. After 45 minutes to an hour, you will reach the waterfall where you will be handed a life vest from the lifeguard before you can get in the water. It was amazing to feel the cool water while we enjoyed the scenery around us and was an amazing way to spend the evening while we were on the north shore. There is an entry fee to access the trail of about $20 per adult.
18) Indulge In Ramen
Some of our favorite meals we had in Oahu were the amazing bowls of ramen on offer. Originally from Japan, ramen noodles are thin and served with a delicious broth with toppings such as scallions, pork and egg on offer. The ramen we tried in Hawaii was all cooked from scratch with fresh ingredients and you could really tell once you had the first bite! The restaurants are generally small in size so you may have to wait in line for some places, but it is absolutely worthwhile!
19) Relax At Lanikai Beach
On the eastern shore (also known as ‘the windward shore’) of Oahu lies the luscious Lanikai Beach. This white sand beach features everything you think of when you imagine a tropical island paradise, from the healthy palm trees to the translucent water. A swim here is absolutely perfect with the calm water coupled with the panoramic view of the beach, keep in mind that there are no lifeguards here so don’t wade out too far. From the beach you will also get a picturesque view of two smaller islands (Moku Nui and Moku Iki) which are located a couple miles out from the shore. The beach is accessible via walkways which are found in between residential houses, and you can find parking on Mokolua Drive or the streets near it.
20) Hike the Lanikai Pillbox Trail
If you are looking for a short and sweet hike that offers beautiful views, then the Lanikai Pillbox trail is what you want. Officially called the Ka’iwa Ridge trail, this trail is found on the east coast of Oahu and as you make your way up it offers spectacular views of the coastline below and the nearby Mokulua islets. The trail is also famous for the ‘pill boxes’ found along the way which are observation posts built during World War II but sitting on top of them and enjoying the view ahead is what they are primarily used for nowadays. The hike up and down will take about 1.5 hours total and for a really special experience, we recommend hiking this at sunrise.
21) Go On A Sunset Cruise
When thinking up of things to do while in Hawaii, you cannot go wrong with a sunset cruise! This is a great option if you want something to kickstart your night but at the same time, you can certainly have a fulfilling, laid-back experience to finish off your day.
There are few companies to choose from with most of them using catamarans for the excursion and they dock from Honolulu. Once you get out to sea, you observe an outstanding view of the island with the golden sunshine beaming onto it as you enjoy a drink on board. We did a couple of sunset cruises, and it always delivered as a fun and relaxing way to conclude our day.
22) Relax At The Scenic Ka’a’awa Beach
Ka’a’awa Beach is a delightful, narrow, off-road beach found along Kamehameha highway and is a lovely place to relax and take in the views. The mountains looming in the background of the white sand beach is so picturesque and there are also a few palm trees which adds to the vibe.
The sand here is often damp due to the small size of the beach so we advise bringing a towel or chair to sit on if you want to sunbathe.
The water has rocks and a reef near the shore making it quite shallow and not ideal for swimming, however there are a few areas which are sandy and perfect for quick, cool-down dip. Parking is limited to just a few spots directly off the road but at least this ensures there’s no overcrowding and this true slice of paradise.
23) Try Ube Everything
Ube is a purple yam that is very popular in South-East Asia and the craze for this delicious taste has more than made its way to Hawaii. During your visit we strongly recommend trying some ube flavored snacks and desserts such as cheesecake, ice cream, or even a latte. The taste of ube is mildly sweet and has hints of a nutty flavor which we absolutely loved and were so grateful to have been introduced to it while in Oahu!
24) Enjoy Dinner With A View At Haleiwa Joe’s at Haiku Gardens
One of the nicest dinners we had during our time in the ‘Aloha State’ was courtesy of Haleiwa Joe’s. Located on the East side of the island, the restaurant has an elegant feel to it and the menu was a nice mix of seafood, Hawaiian food and American food. On top of the amazing food, the view that we had of the nearby Haiku Garden with the mountains in the background was a lovely feature (be sure to get a photo taken here). This is a great option for a romantic evening out, but it is just as easily suited for a get together with friends or family. There is also a bar at the front of the building with TV’s if you were looking to watch some sports either. No matter the occasion, you will not regret visiting Haleweia Joes!
25) Catch A Surfing Competition At The ‘Banzai Pipeline’
It’s no secret that Hawaii is known for its surfing conditions and the north shore of Oahu offers some of the world’s best waves. The ‘Banzai Pipeline’ is a surf reef break stretches across a couple beaches and has a reputation that attracts surfers year-round and is where many international competitions are held. We recommend making your way to Sunset Beach Park where you can sit atop the mounds of sand for an elevated view of the contest. Additionally, there are restrooms located just across the road from the beach and parking was plentiful when we visited. We were pleasantly surprised to find a smoothie bar called ‘Sunrise Shack’ where we could grab refreshments while we watched the surf competition and, as the name suggests, this is an amazing spot to spend the evening to watch the sunset. Keep in mind that the rough waves mean that this is definitely not a suitable beach for swimmers or for inexperienced surfers.
26) Find Zen At The Byodo-In Temple
The Byodo-In Temple is not at the top of most peoples lists when visiting Oahu but it is a must see if you ask us. This is a beautiful non-practicing Buddhist temple that was built to commemorate Japanese immigrants in Hawaii and it is a replica of a temple in Kyoto, Japan. We really appreciated the sense of calmness here as we roamed the temple grounds that featured a large koi pond, peacocks, and was surrounded by trees which gave a refreshing smell throughout the afternoon.
We were given the chance to ring the Buddhist bell which is known as a ‘Bonsho’ and afterwards we removed our shoes to enter the temple which was as beautifully decorated on the inside as it was on the outside. The temple is located at the bottom of the Ko’olau mountains on the east side of the island and is a 40 minute drive from Honolulu. Tickets cost just $5 per adult which is another reason to check out this hidden gem!
27) Snorkel At Sharks Cove
Oahu will have you spoiled for choice when it comes to areas that are good for snorkeling and Sharks Cove on the North Shore is up there with one of the best in our opinion! This is a small, rocky cove which is sheltered from waves and is relatively shallow making it perfect for casual snorkelers and beginners but make sure there are no swells forecasted for the day that you go. As we explored the blue water here, we moved around large boulders and coral where we observed big schools of fish as well as various species of beautiful tropical fish. Although Sharks Cove does not offer much sand, the adjacent Pupukea Beach has plenty of white sand to lounge on and enjoy the weather once you get out of the water. There are some patches of grass located on top of the bank overlooking the beach and across the road you will also find bathrooms and food trucks making this a great spot to spend the day.
28) Go Cliffjumping At Waimea Bay
Waimea Bay is one of many stunning beaches on Oahu but what makes this a particularly popular spot to visit is the cliff jumping! Amongst the turquoise water and picturesque sand, there is the iconic “Big Rock” which is an amazing place to try cliff jumping regardless of your experience. You will start climbing the rock at its closest point to the shore and as you make your way up you will find a few different areas to jump from and at varying heights. For those looking for a slightly bigger adrenaline rush, there is a point on the rock that is about 10 meters high. Parts of the rock can be jagged and slippery so make sure to take your time and exercise caution as you climb. Even if you are not into cliff jumping, we would definitely recommend this beach on the North Shore as it is a lot more spacious than most and the sand and water are exactly what you would imagine when thinking of Hawaii. Parking is limited so the earlier you arrive the better, otherwise you may just have to wait a little until a spot opens up but it’s worth it.
29) Try a Poke Bowl
Poke Bowls are an Ancient Hawaiian dish consisting of diced raw fish, sushi rice, a sauce, and garnishes such as wasabi or green onions. Needless to say, you will be treated to some amazing options when it comes to poke bowls in Oahu with incredibly fresh ingredients and expertly prepared via recipe that have been passed down for generations. There are many restaurants and take out joints that specialize in poke and we also recommend trying some at a Foodland grocery store for a taste of this delicious dish.
30) Spend an afternoon at Ho’omaluhia Botanical Gardens
If you are seeking a pristine view of Oahu’s green mountain ranges diverse vegetation, Ho’omaluhia Botanical Gardens is a must see! Located at the bottom of the Ko’olau mountain range on Oahu’s East coast, the gardens offer a lot to see and depending on what you’re looking for, you could spend anywhere from an hour to more than half a day here! There are 8 different gardens with each boasting plants and flowers found in different regions throughout Southeast Asia with plenty of information available on each. There are many great spots for a picnic here with grass and picnic tables readily available. You can explore a few hiking trails found at Ho’omaluhia Botanical Gardens that are well maintained and afford you the chance for more stunning scenery and even a bit of bird watching.
31) Snorkel At Hanauma Bay
It is not an exaggeration to say that Hanauma Bay will rank as one of the most beautiful and unique locations you will find a beach.
Situated in a curved bay, Hanauma Bay is a by-product of Oahu’s volcanic past and that is home to a magnificent marine ecosystem with over 450 different species of fish living in the coral reef. For this reason, coupled with the calm waters due to the shelter offered by the bay, Hanauma Bay is a popular snorkel destination so we definitely recommend bringing some gear with you to make the most of your day.
This a marine life conservation district so be sure to avoid standing on the reef and listen to all instructions given to you by the staff. There is limited shade on the beach so prepare for that and be aware that it will cost non-residents $25 per adult to gain access (kids get in cheaper) and parking is limited so the earlier you go the better.
32) Try A Mickey Mouse Musubi At Aulani
During your trip to Oahu, you will be exposed to a host of great foods that you may have never got to try before and spam musubi is right up there. This is made up of spam (pork) in a block of rice which is wrapped in edible seaweed and a fun way place to try this is at the Disney resort in Aulani where it is creatively arranged in the shape of Mickey Mouses head. The Aulani resort is located on the island’s west side and is a great blend of Disney themes and Native Hawaiian culture which is a stark contrast to other resorts on the island such as those in Waikiki. There are other cool Disney themed souvenirs you can pick up here and its close proximity to the beach makes this a great destination for an afternoon in Oahu!
33) Hike The Waimanalo Waterfall Trail
This was certainly one of the most memorable hikes as the end of it featured two picturesque plunge pools beneath and a gorgeous waterfall. The Waimanalo Falls Trail starts in Pearl City and you can park your car in a residential area along Komo Mai Drive.
It begins easy enough, but the 3-mile trail becomes tricky in places where you encounter going up and down some steep slopes with obstacles such as tree roots and rocks. The trail is quite muddy in some areas so be careful to take your time and wear a good pair of trainers or hiking boots.
The end of the trail takes you into the jungle where you will find the pools of water and the waterfall. Make sure to pack swimwear because the water was incredibly refreshing and felt good on tired legs post-hike. If you climb up the rock, you will find a shallower pool of water along with a gentle waterfall.
This makes for a charming view and is a great place to sit and relax. You will also find a rope swing that you can use to swing into the pool below which was great fun!
34) Watch The Sunset At Sunset Beach
As the name suggests, Sunset Beach is the perfect place on Oahu’s North Shore to watch the sun go down. The beach itself is a large white sand beach which has a hill of sand towards the back of the beach which is where we sat and enjoyed a beer as we took in the glorious sunset. The water is nice and warm and perfect for a swim but in the winter months the waves can be quite rough, an aspect you will appreciate if you are a surfer. There is plenty of parking across the road from the beach where you will also find restrooms.
35) Get Dole Whip At The Dole Plantation
The Dole plantation was founded in 1950 and has grown from a simple fruit stand to a large pineapple plantation which is famous for its harvests. The plantation offers many attractions such as guided tours of the garden, exploring the garden maze, and riding the ‘Pineapple Express’ train! There are a host of delicious pineapple flavored food to try but you absolutely must get the Dole Whip (creamy pineapple dessert) while you are here. The Dole Plantation is located north of Honolulu but not quite as far as the north shore and is a great option to spend a couple hours.
36) Grab Happy Hour Cocktails In Waikiki
While Hawaii can be notoriously expensive, especially in terms of food and drinks, one of the best ways to save money as you travel is to take advantage of the many happy hours on offer. There is definitely no shortage of bars and restaurants throughout Waikiki, and they compete with one another by offering large discounts on food and drinks in the early evening. Often the happy ‘hour’ lasts 2-3 hours so be sure to check ahead with the establishment to see what time theirs starts at. This way you will not be rushing through your meal and drinks and can take your time while also ensuring you get the best deal. Some places will even have live music throughout but regardless, a Waikiki happy hour is a great way to start of anyone’s evening.
37) Diamond Head Sunrise Hike
Diamond Head is a volcanic cone located very near Honolulu and the view from the summit is mesmerizing, especially if you go to watch the sunrise. The hike offers a number of great viewing areas where you can stop and take in the natural beauty as you climb. The hike will take 30-45 mins to finish but keep in mind that parts of the trail are unpaved and quite steep so bring a good pair of sneakers.
As you get closer to the top, you will reach a disused fort that was built for the US military in the early 1900’s. You will enter the fort, walk through a narrow tunnel, and climb a spiral staircase with the option to explore some other rooms which is definitely worthwhile.
The summit offers an extraordinary 360-degree view which includes the Waikiki coastline, the city skyline, and the green mountain ranges inland. The viewing platform is small and can be quite congested with other people so you may have to wait your turn to get a good picture! You will need to book a slot ahead of time in order to hike Diamond Head so be sure to do that online but its beauty and ease of access from the city makes this a must see.
38) Hike to Ka’ena point
Ka’ena point is found on Oahu’s western most tip and hiking there offers outstanding panoramic views of the coastline as well as the pleasure of seeing an albatross bird sanctuary. There is a hiking trail that takes you here from the north, but we opted for the route that starts from the east of Ka’ena point.
The hike was flat nearly the entire way as we took in the views of the powerful waves crashing over the lava rock to our left-hand side. There were a number of rocky coves but there is no beach areas. After a little over an hour on the trail, we reached Ka’ena point State Park which features an untamed Abatross sanctuary which was so cool to see.
39) Get Brunch at the Famous Turtle Bay Resort
If you feel like treating yourself to a leisurely brunch with a view on Oahu’s north shore, look no further than the lavish Turtle Bay Resort. This amazing resort was the film location for the movie ‘Forgetting Sarah Marshall’ and offers a delicious all you can eat brunch buffet that will cost $50 per person. The buffet is in a spacious dining room with plenty of natural light from the large windows which also serve to give guests a lovely view of the ocean. There was a wide variety of different food choices, from fresh fruit to pastries to meat and rice so no matter what your preference is, they will have something to suit you. Unlike most buffets, there were servers here ensuring we were topped up on coffee and juice which was much appreciated. After enjoying your brunch, we recommend taking a stroll on the nearby Turtle Bay Beach.
40) Visit Iolani Palace
Iolani Palace was the home of the rulers of Hawaii’s former monarchy and is the only Royal Palace in the United States. Built in 1882, the Palace boasts exquisite architecture and design which is in great condition thanks to the restoration work that has been done over the years. You can take the tour to get the extensive background on the building and on the history of Hawaii but there is also an audio tour option if you prefer to move at your own pace. Iolani Palace is truly a cultural time capsule and is easily accessible within Honolulu so make sure to add it to your list!
