Things to do & places to visit in Oahu, Hawaii, United States


Oahu cover image
The Hawaiian island of Oahu is a surfer’s paradise, with swelling waves that can reach epic heights. No wonder, then, that it’s the site of one of the world’s premier competitions, the Triple Crown of Surfing. If hanging ten isn’t your thing, you can still enjoy the beautiful beaches – particularly famous Waikiki Beach in Honolulu. Art connoisseurs will appreciate the annual Hale'iwa Arts Festival, a celebration of local crafts, painting, jewelry, sculpture, dance, and music.

Oahu island in Hawaii, United States. Timezone: Pacific/Honolulu, current date and time: Friday, March 29, 2024, 5:02.

Top things to do (16)

Top places to visit (23 attractions)

  1. 4.5 USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park (3.966 reviews)
    - Excellent tour of successful WWII Submarine
    Friday: 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM Speciality Museums
    USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park image
    Visited the first Friday in December. I had limited time due to the time constraints of being on a bus tour. Admission for 1 adult is $21.99, plus $1.54 "service fee." They will ask to see your proof of vaccination card and ID. I visited the museum first and found it to be excellent and informative with many exhibits and displays honoring the service and role of many of the US subs in service during the war. The exhibits included many operational details of sub patrols and battle flags honoring the many subs that served. Next, I visited the submarine itself and found it to be in excellent condition and well worth visiting. Be careful walking on or in the sub because there are many places you (or children) can trip and fall or hit your head going through the smaller sub doors. I spent less than an hour going through the museum and about 20-30 minutes on the sub itself, but I could have stayed longer if my time wasn't limited. See more..
  2. 4.5 Manoa Falls (3.715 reviews)
    - Manoa Falls - worth the trip
    Friday: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Waterfalls
    Manoa Falls image
    This scenic 150-foot-tall falls is only accessible via a hike through the rainforest. It's a 1.5-mile round trip, which takes about an hour or two from the trailhead. Wear good shoes as the path can get muddy and slippery, and bring bug repellent and plenty of water. Manoa Falls is a great photography spot, and the location has featured in movies and television shows like Jurassic Park and Lost. Cool off in the pool at the base of the falls and grab a snack and a refreshing pineapple smoothie for your walk back to civilization. – Tripadvisor See more..
  3. 4.5 National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific (3.237 reviews)
    - Perfect Final Resting Place
    Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM Cemeteries
    National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific image
    The resting place for more than 25,000 victims of three American Wars - World War II, Korean War and Vietnam War – this is truly the “Cemetery of Heroes.” Punchbowl was formed some 75,000 to 100,000 years ago during the Honolulu period of secondary volcanic activity. A crater resulted from the ejection of hot lava through cracks in the old coral reefs that, at the time, extended to the foot of the Koolau Mountain Range. Of special note is a monument honoring Hawaii-born astronaut Ellison Onizuka, who perished aboard the Challenger space shuttle in 1986. Also noteworthy are the Courts of the Missing, white stone tablets bearing the names of those missing in action from World War II. See more..
  4. 4.5 Lanikai Beach (3.066 reviews)
    - Best beach
    Beaches
    Lanikai Beach image
    Also known as Kaʻōhao Beach, Lanikai Beach is widely regarded as one of the best beaches in the world, and is famous for its stunning views of the Mokulua Islands. Book a kayak tour for a chance to see the green sea turtles that inhabit the 'The Mokes'. The beach is also a popular spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing, thanks to consistent and steady winds. Enjoy the beautiful colors of the sky as the sun rises and sets over the Pacific Ocean and admire the beautiful houses and gardens of the surrounding residential area of Kailu. Come prepared as there are no amenities at this beach. – Tripadvisor See more..
  5. 4.5 Kailua Beach Park (3.058 reviews)
    - Nice beach
    Beaches
    Kailua Beach Park image
    Located on the southeast end of Kailua Beach, this pristine shoreline on Oahu's Windward side is popular for water sports and scenic strolls. See more..
  6. 4.5 Bishop Museum (2.866 reviews) from $26.95
    - Bishop Museum is great for kids and adults
    Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums
    Bishop Museum image
    Bishop Museum was founded in 1889 by Charles Reed Bishop in honor of his late wife, Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop, the last descendant of the royal Kamehameha family. The Museum was established to house the extensive collection of Hawaiian artifacts and royal family heirlooms of the Princess, and has expanded to include millions of artifacts, documents and photographs about Hawai'i and other Pacific island cultures. Today, Bishop Museum is the largest museum in the state and the premier natural and cultural history institution in the Pacific, recognized throughout the world for its cultural collections, research projects, consulting services and public educational programs. It also has one of the largest natural history specimen collections in the world. Serving and representing the interests of Native Hawaiians is a primary purpose of the Museum. See more..
  7. 4.5 Makapuu Lighthouse Trail (2.636 reviews)
    - Steep climb but the views are worth it!
    Friday: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Historic Walking Areas • Hiking Trails
    Makapuu Lighthouse Trail image
    Makapuu Lighthouse Trail is one of Oahu's most popular coastal hiking trails on its southeastern coast, offering spectacular views of the Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline. You'll get to see landmarks like Koko Crater, Makapuu Beach, and even the offshore islands Molokai and Lanai on a clear day. There's also the iconic red Makapuu Lighthouse built in 1909 which you can see along the way. Bring a pair of binoculars to spot seabirds and migrating humpback whales from November to May. This uphill trail is about two miles long and is well-paved throughout, making it a manageable trek for families with children. – Tripadvisor See more..
  8. 4.5 Koko Crater Railway Trail (2.596 reviews)
    - Do it
    Hiking Trails
    Koko Crater Railway Trail image
    Also known as the "Koko Head Stairs," this abandoned WWII railway track is a steep and challenging hiking trail with over 1,000 steps (but worth it for the panoramic views). See more..
  9. 4.5 Waimea Valley (2.530 reviews)
    - Hidden cultural and botanical gem
    Friday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Historic Sites • Valleys • Waterfalls
    Waimea Valley image
    Also known as the Valley of the Priests, this lush region is home to various historical structures en route to a 45-foot-tall waterfall. See more..
  10. 4.5 Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum (2.349 reviews)
    - Pay extra for the Top of the Tower Tour
    Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Speciality Museums
    Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum image
    One of the principal Pearl Harbor Historic Sites, our unique interactive museum is located in the battlefield hangers of historic Ford Island which were attacked by the Imperial Japanese Navy on December 7, 1941, the beginning of WWII. Aircraft, such as a Japanese Zero and the Stearman in which former President George H.W. Bush soloed as the war's youngest aviator, illustrate how aviation helped stem the war. You'll view historic videos, including a movie of the beginning of the war. Enjoy the authentic gift shop, 1940s themed Laniakea Cafe, and our state-of-the-art 360 degree combat flight simulators. The mission of Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum is to steward America’s first aviation battlefield of World War II sharing the artifacts, personal stories, the impact and response to the December 7, 1941 attack and the Pacific region battles that followed, honoring those who have defended our freedom so we might educate and inspire future generations. See more..
  11. 4.5 Ala Moana Beach Park (1.999 reviews)
    - Once a Bog
    Friday: 4:00 AM - 10:00 PM Beaches • Parks • Jogging Paths & Tracks
    Ala Moana Beach Park image
    This gentle, protected beach has coarse sand and is ideal for swimming and water play. See more..
  12. 4.5 Byodo-In Temple (1.901 reviews)
    - Cool place to visit
    Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks • Religious Sites
    Byodo-In Temple image
    This replica of an ancient Japanese temple in the Valley of the Temples Memorial Park is a hidden gem along the Windward Coast of Oahu. See more..
  13. 4.5 Fort DeRussy Beach Park (1.901 reviews)
    - Lovely beach
    Parks
    Fort DeRussy Beach Park image
    This beach is a 5 to 10 minute walk north of the famed Waikiki beach. The beach area is pretty long but not probably as wide as Waikiki. Beautiful and enjoyable nevertheless. In fact we spent most of the time at this beach. We rented the chair and umbrella combo (2 of them) for 60$ total and relaxed on the beach, ate and drank for hours. Lots of fun and not as crowded as the other beaches. You can walk to beach walk to get your grub/drinks or just get it from Shake Shack which is right on the beach and enjoy your day. Loved it loved it loved it :-) .Very highly recommended. See more..
  14. 4.5 Ko Olina Lagoons (1.773 reviews)
    - Scenic and Enjoyable
    Spent More than 3 hours Bodies of Water
    Ko Olina Lagoons image
    Travelers flock to these artificial lagoons along the western coast of Oahu to swim, snorkel, and paddleboard in the calm, crystal clear, turquoise waters and bask in the Hawaiian sun. Book a boat tour of the lagoons to learn more about the area's history and marine life, and take in the beautiful Hawaiian sunset with a stroll along the beach. The lagoons are a 30-minute drive from the city—arrive early to secure a parking spot or get a shuttle bus in. Stay at one of the seaside resorts to make the most of it, and visit during the warmer months from April to October. – Tripadvisor See more..
  15. 4.5 Waimea Bay (1.287 reviews)
    - Beach is Great...Finding Parking is Not
    Bodies of Water
    Waimea Bay image
    Waimea Bay is the deepest bay on Oahu’s North Shore and the birthplace of big-wave surfing, especially in winter. Between November to February, waves reach up to 40 feet in height, challenging even the most expert surfers. Even if you're not a fan of riding the waves, watching these pro surfers in action will get your heart racing too. Otherwise, visit during summer for the soft sand, arresting seaside views, and calmer waters—perfect for swimming, snorkeling, diving and even cliff-jumping. The wave conditions here fluctuate quickly, so look out for the colored flags before diving in. – Tripadvisor See more..
  16. 4.5 Honolulu Museum of Art (1.283 reviews)
    - Excellent offerings especially Shangri La
    Friday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM Art Museums
    Honolulu Museum of Art image
    One of the world’s premier art museums presents international caliber special exhibitions and features a collection that includes Hokusai, van Gogh, Gauguin, Monet, Picasso and Warhol, as well as traditional Asian and Hawaiian art. Located in two of Honolulu’s most beautiful buildings, visitors enjoy two cafés, gardens, and films and concerts at the theater. Other location: Honolulu Museum of Art Spalding House See more..
  17. 4.5 North Shore (1.273 reviews)
    - Friendly, professional Tiho
    Friday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Points of Interest & Landmarks
    North Shore image
    The northern region of Oahu is a destination in itself, offering a wide variety of natural wonders and resort activities. See more..
  18. 4.5 Laniakea Beach (1.254 reviews)
    - Turtles
    Friday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent 2-3 hours Beaches
    Laniakea Beach image
    Nicknamed Turtle Beach, this unique location is home to a population of Hawaiian green turtles that bask on its sandy shores during the day. Observe these gentle creatures from a safe distance, and watch them make their way through the rough waves that hit the beach. Volunteers are on hand to ensure that the turtles are not disturbed, and there are signs with information and rules. Laniakea Beach is understandably popular with tourists and locals alike—visiting in the morning when the turtles are active and for fewer crowds. You'll have a better chance of seeing turtles in the summer. – Tripadvisor See more..
  19. 4.5 Shangri La (944 reviews)
    - Be Swept Away to Shangri La!
    Historic Sites • Architectural Buildings • Art Museums
    Shangri La image
    Shangri La is a museum for learning about the global cultures of Islamic art and design through exhibitions, digital and educational initiatives, public tours and programs, and community partnerships. See more..
  20. 4.5 Sunset Beach Park (917 reviews)
    - Beautiful if you don't want to swim!
    Beaches
    Sunset Beach Park image
    Beautiful place for watching the sunset and surfers. NOT a place to really get in the water unless you are surfing - maybe it is calmer in the summer. The sand here will have you sinking a bit as you walk around, so get ready for some exercise if you plan on doing that. Parking is along the road in most access places, I am not sure if we missed an actual parking lot, but plan ahead for spotty parking. We got dinner after this nearby at Seven Brothers Burgers, but it would have been extra nice to have takeout on the beach itself during the sunset. See more..
  21. 4.5 Shark's Cove (786 reviews)
    - My favorite thing we did on Oahu
    Beaches
    Shark's Cove image
    These rocky tidal pools in Pupukea’s Marine Life Conservation District on Oahu’s north shore are famous for snorkeling and scuba diving. Despite its name, there are no sharks to be found here, but the cove boasts an impressive variety of marine life, including schools of fish, octopuses, sea turtles, and thriving coral. Visit in summer when the waters are calm, as the winter’s waves make for dangerous conditions. There are restrooms and limited parking but no lifeguards on duty. Also, wear water shoes as it’s easy to lose footing on the sharp and slippery rocks. – Tripadvisor See more..
  22. 4.5 Waimanalo Beach (740 reviews)
    - Best Beach
    Beaches • Parks
    Waimanalo Beach image
    Located on the windward side of Oahu, this gorgeous and secluded beach has the majestic Koolau Mountains as a backdrop. It's great for sunbathing under the ironwood trees on the soft white sand and swimming in its clear waters—the waters are calmer in the morning and kick up in the afternoon when it’s breezier. The beach is a quiet refuge on weekdays but is a popular spot for locals on the weekend who gather for all-day barbecues and beach fun. You'll also see anglers chartering boats to fish at sea. Check out this beach on a tour or helicopter ride over Oahu, which often passes by Waimanalo Beach. – Tripadvisor See more..
  23. 4.0 Ala Moana Center (3.105 reviews)
    - Long long day
    Shopping Malls
    Ala Moana Center image
    Ala Moana Center currently features more than 290 stores, including 70 dining options, one of the largest collections of luxury retailers in the world, four major department stores and several only-in-Hawai'i retailers featuring locally-made products and souvenirs. See more..