Oahu tours, sightseeing, things to do

Oahu

Trip Planning & Itineraries

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When most people think of Hawaii, it's typically the island of Oahu and its famous landmarks - like Waikiki and Honolulu, Pearl Harbor and Sunset Beach - that spring to mind. Oahu is where the action is, whether you're looking for nightlife or surf.

Honolulu and Waikiki offer a vibrant city scene, but just beyond you'll find rolling hills carpeted in pineapples, fluted mountains cut by cascading waterfalls and turquoise bays remote enough to provide the backdrop for the TV series Lost. If you're looking for Hawaiian paradise, Oahu fits the bill nicely.

Best of Oahu: Suggested Itineraries

Oahu tours things to do

If you want to be in the midst of the action, Waikiki is the place to stay. The southeast coast abounds in dramatic scenery and offers plenty of activity options. If you're looking to kick-start your Oahu travel planning, have a look at our 3-day itinerary tips in Oahu. And check out the Hawaii vacation guide from SmarterTravel.com. Aloha!

Day 1: Honolulu & Waikiki

honolulu tours waikiki things to do oahu

Start in Waikiki, with a stroll along the beach and breakfast at one of the oceanfront restaurants. If you're ultra-adventurous, try the Diamond Head Crater sunrise walk, and then join the crowds at Waikiki's Kuhio Beach Park to surf, swim, people-watch and enjoy the sunset hula show. If sun and surf are not for you, delve into Oahu's rich heritage and culture at the Polynesian Cultural Center.

Day 2: North Shore of Oahu

north shore tours oahu

Head out of Waikiki for the North Shore. If it's winter check out the world-class surfing at Waimea Bay and Sunset Beach, where waves frequently top 20 feet (if you don't have your own transport click here). If it's summer snorkel with tropical fish over peaceful coral reefs at Hanauma Bay or Pupukea Beach Park.

In Hale'iwa enjoy a fresh grilled-fish sandwich and pop into the North Shore Surf & Cultural Museum to see some cool surf memorabilia. And make sure you go to a luau - no trip to Hawaii is complete without this experience.

Day 3: Pali Highway

oahu tours trip planning

On Day 3 you're ready for the scenic Pali Highway, stopping at the scenic Nu'uanu Lookout. Have lunch in Kailua before continuing on to Kailua Beach Park; you can windsurf around the bay or rent a kayak and paddle out to a pristine island. Then continue your loop via southeast Oahu, poking around the local shops in Waimanalo. Be sure to stop at Makapu'u Point and the Halona Blowhole before heading back at sunset to Waikiki.

If it's volcanoes or the other islands that interest you, try one of our day trips to Maui, Kauai or the Big Island.

Best of Oahu: Top 3 Places to Sleep

In addition to these options, browse Oahu hotels at Uptake.com or save on Oahu vacation rentals at HomeAway.com.

Oahu: featured traveler photos
Polynesian Cultural Center, Oahu Hawaii

Photo by: Jeff L, Australia

Doing what: Polynesian Cultural Center Tickets

Arizona Memorial & Pearl Harbor
Pearl Harbor USS Missouri Arizona Memorial Oahu Hawaii

The Arizona Memorial and Pearl Harbor are two of Oahu's must-see sights when you visit Hawaii. Tour the USS Missouri, drive through Punchbowl National Cemetery and experience the power of Pearl Harbor.

Big Island Volcanoes Day Trip
Big Island Volcanoes Day Trip Big Island Volcanoes Day Trip From USD $279.99

The recent eruptions of Kilauea Volcano in Hawaii's Volcanoes National Park have captured the world's imagination. See it for yourself on this Big Island volcano adventure featuring a hike over the lava flow that covered the village of Kalapana and Kaimu black sand beach. This trip takes you exploring in Volcanoes National Park and to several attractions including the legendary Rainbow Falls.

More Oahu Resources

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