oahu hawaii travel tips

The Perfect Oahu Itinerary | 3, 5, and 7 Days (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

Wondering the best way to spend up to 1 week on Oahu? Our Oahu itinerary includes all the best attractions and sights around this stunning Hawaiian island!

The most visited of the Hawaiian Islands , Oahu, is referred to as the “Gathering Place” for obvious reasons. 

Home to world-famous beaches, like Waikiki Beach on the South Shore or the iconic surf beaches of the North Shore, Oahu is notorious for its towering waves that reach over 30 feet in the winter.

These waves, particularly those on the North Shore, lure in surfers worldwide to show off their skills and bravery to conquer these impressive waves.

And though the crystal clear blue waters and white-sand beaches of Oahu are famous, drawing in millions of visitors every year, there is more to the third largest of the Hawaiian Islands than its beaches. 

Oahu is full of history, culture, and traditions, which can be experienced in most of its top attractions.

Another impactful reason why Oahu attracts millions of visitors each year is that it was the place of the World War II Pearl Harbor attack, resulting in multiple memorials established on the still active military base on Ford Island. 

To experience the best attractions during your trip, use our crafted Oahu itinerary for three, five, and seven days on the island.

Our itinerary for Oahu covers the best things to do, and allows you the flexibility to spend anywhere from 3 days to one week in this tropical paradise!

Table of Contents

Day 1 Morning – Sunset Beach

Day 1 afternoon – turtle bay , day 1 evening – polynesian cultural center , day 2 morning – shark’s cove, day 2 afternoon – waimea valley, day 2 evening – waimea bay , day 3 morning – laniakea beach , day 3 afternoon – haleiwa surf town , day 3 evening – dole plantation , day 4 morning – pearl harbor national memorial , day 4 afternoon – ford island, day 4 evening – hilton hawaiian village waikiki beach resort, day 5 morning – waikiki beach , day 5 afternoon – hike diamond head state monument, day 5 evening – hanauma bay , day 6 morning – sea life park hawaii, day 6 afternoon – lanikai beach , day 6 evening – kailua beach , day 7 morning – kaneohe bay , day 7 afternoon – kualoa regional park , day 7 evening – kualoa ranch , when is the best time to visit oahu, hawaii, getting around oahu, hawaii, best hostel in oahu, best mid-range hotel in oahu, best luxury hotel in oahu, how to spend up to 7 days in oahu itinerary.

From catching waves on the North Shore or the South Shore to learning about Polynesian culture, there are plenty of popular things to do in Oahu.

Our itinerary for Oahu is designed to establish a core three-day itinerary that can be extended to five and seven days for a fulfilling and memorable experience on this breathtaking island! 

Check out our ultimate guide to the 25 best things to do in Hawaii for more ideas!

Core 3-Day Oahu Itinerary

This Oahu itinerary is the core of any trip to the tropical paradise of this Hawaiian Island. Three days is the minimum recommended time to be spent in Oahu, and we’ve curated this itinerary so you can make the most out of your trip during your three days on the island! 

Day 1 in Oahu

Start your first day in Oahu by hitting the refreshing clear blue waters of Sunset Beach on the North Shore for a swim.

Then, check out Turtle Bay for sightings of endangered species of green sea turtles and Hawaiian monk seals. Finally, end the day with an exceptional cultural experience at the Polynesian Cultural Center, voted the top attraction on Oahu! 

A two-mile stretch of sandy heaven on the North Shore of Oahu, Sunset Beach is a legendary surfing spot for its massive waves in the winter.

Big wave surfing is a hit here, so if you’re visiting during the winter, watching these courageous and experienced surfers hit these dangerously large waves can be worth the watch! 

During the summer, the waves at Sunset Beach are much flatter and safe for swimming and snorkeling in. And, if you time it right, you can bask in the most vibrant and colorful sunsets at Sunset Beach, hence the name. 

Read Next: Don’t plan your time in the Hawaiian Islands without or Hawaiian itinerary guide.

Named after the green sea turtles that once fed in the bay, Turtle Bay is on the north shore of Oahu, located between Kuilima Point and Protection Point. 

The picturesque scenery here is unforgettable, with its clear blue waters and white sands. Nearby is the luxurious Turtle Bay Resort , set on 850 acres with views of Kuilima Cove. At Turtle Bay Resort, guests can access snorkeling, swimming, cultural lessons, hiking trails, and more! 

While visiting Turtle Bay, there is a chance you may spot humpback whales, turtles, and Hawaiian monk seals while savoring the impeccable wild coastline views. 

Located on the north shore of Oahu, the Polynesian Cultural Center has been consistently voted the island’s #1 attraction!

A living museum, the center’s six Polynesian villages, and performances bring the Polynesian spirit to life for visitors to experience the rich history and culture of the Pacific Islands.

Visitors to the Polynesian Cultural Center can wander the 42 acres of tropical land filled with interactive activities as natives demonstrate the beauty of tradition, arts, and crafts.

Then, end the day enjoying an authentic Polynesian lūʻau for an exceptionally memorable first day on the island!

• Address: 55-370 Kamehameha Hwy, Laie, HI 96762
• Phone Number: (800) 367-7060
• Hours:   12:30 PM – 9 PM (Monday-Tuesday, Thursday-Saturday), Closed (Wednesday, Sunday)

Visiting another Hawaiian Island? Check out our list of the best things to do in Maui !

Day 2 in Oahu

Start day two of your itinerary for Oahu with snorkeling at one of the top diving destinations in the world: Shark’s Cove. Walk amongst history and encompassing natural beauty at the sacred Waimea Valley.

Go cliff diving in the summer at Waimea Bay between swimming in the water and lazing in the sun! 

Featured as one of the Top Twelve Shore Dives In The World by Scuba Diving Magazine, Shark’s Cove is a must-visit on the north shore of Oahu if you want an unrivaled snorkeling and diving experience!

Shark’s Cove is a small section of Pupukea Beach Park, the bottom of its blue waters creating small caves for marine habitats to prosper or hide.

The walls of the cliffs forming the cove are a calm pool for fish to swim in, away from the threat of the open water. This continues to the Pupukea tide pools on the south side of Sharks Cove, a popular spot for families to take their kids to explore the waters. 

Read Next: Read this post so that you don’t miss out on all of the best places to visit in Hawaii .

Waimea Valley is a vital part of Hawaiian history, representing Hawaii’s culture, tradition, and spirituality.

The mission of Hi’ipaka is to share and celebrate the living representation of the Hawaiian culture of Waimea Valley with the world. 

Acting as a botanical garden and sacred historical site, Waimea Valley is a unique experience you should not pass up. It features some of the best waterfalls in Hawaii, some of which are safe to swim at while savoring the lush nature of Oahu’s forests.

Waimea Falls is one of the most notorious hikes, easy for families to trek, and one of the spots to go swimming as the sound of the rushing waterfall fills the background. 

• Address: Haleiwa, HI 96712
• Phone Number: (808) 638-7766
• Hours: 9 AM – 4 PM (Tuesday-Sunday), Closed (Monday)

On Oahu’s north shore, Waimea Bay is legendary for its 30-foot waves that attract surfers worldwide to surf during winter!

The most popular spot for watching these surfers hit the waves is at Banzai Pipeline and Sunset Beach. However, in the summer at Waimea Bay, the waters are much more tranquil, perfect for swimming, diving, and snorkeling.

You’ll even notice daring cliff divers launch off the massive half-submerged rock on the shore into the water below! 

Read Next: Be sure to add these great things to do in Oahu while you’re there!

Day 3 in Oahu

Laze in the sun with massive sea turtles at Laniakea Beach while basking in the breathtaking coastal views. Grab a shaved ice and go shopping in a historic surf town.

Try the world-famous Dole soft serve and find your way out of the maze at Dole Plantation. Day 3 of your itinerary for Oahu is going to be action-packed!

Translating to the “wide sky,” Laniakea Beach’s breathtaking scenery is a wondrous sight, even with the turtles lazing about on its sands.

Laniakea Beach is most commonly called “Turtle Beach” because of all the turtles seen at this Oahu beach. 

Many people come to this glorious beach to observe the giant sea turtles as they cuddle in the sand and soak in the sun’s warming rays. It’s a highlight of any Hawaiian vacation!

Picnicking and setting up on the sand to relish the beautiful sights is common at Laniakea Beach. However, the water is known for being a bit rough, so proceeding with caution is important! 

A historical and cultural hub spot, Haleʻiwa is a charming surf town on Oahu’s North Shore.

Throughout Haleʻiwa are cute boutiques, quality restaurants, historic plantation buildings, unique surf shops, and defining art galleries. 

Numerous food trucks serve delicacies like fresh shrimp and shave ice for a refreshing snack before surfers hit the water and visitors take on the town for fun finds. Shave ice is a classic Hawaiian treat, so definitely try some while visiting Hawaii!

The town of Haleʻiwa is included in the Seven Mile Miracle of Hawaii, one of the most revered concentrated stretches of surf breaks known on the planet. 

A historic pineapple plantation, the Dole Plantation is one of the best attractions on the island of Oahu, drawing in over a million visitors every year!

Home to the world’s largest maze in 2008, the Pineapple Garden Maze at the Dole Plantation features almost three miles of winding paths across three acres of land. The maze is made up of 14,000 native Hawaiian plants.

The plantation started as a fruit stand in 1950 and has since solidified itself as one of the top Oahu attractions, serving up its world-famous Dole Soft Serve. 

• Address: 64-1550 Kamehameha Hwy, Wahiawa, HI 96786
• Phone Number: (808) 621-8408
• Hours: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM (Daily)

Read next: The 21 Best Things To Do In Kauai, Hawaii

5 Day Oahu Itinerary

Are you looking for a 5-day Oahu itinerary? If you decide to extend your Oahu vacation, simply add the five-day itinerary to the core three-day itinerary for a memorable and fulfilling trip!

Day 4 in Oahu

Today, head to the South Shore of the island to learn about the impactful history of Oahu and the United States at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial.

Then, visit the active military base and home of history at Ford Island. Finally, check out the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort, where non-guests can enjoy the saltwater lagoon and hit the beach for a day of family fun! 

The location of one of the most impactful moments in United States history, the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, is where the attack on Pearl Harbor by Japanese Forces in World War II occurred.

The memorial preserves the USS Arizona Memorial, the ship that sank after being hit by a missile and then bombs. 

Visiting Pearl Harbor and its museums is free, though reservations are recommended as it can get crowded at these popular attractions.

This Pearl Harbor, Arizona Memorial & Honolulu City Tour guides you through downtown Honolulu while learning in-depth educational facts about the historical sites and memorials. 

• Address: 1 Arizona Memorial Pl, Honolulu, HI 96818
• Phone Number: (808) 422-3399
• Hours : 7 AM – 5 PM (Daily)

An islet located in the center of Pearl Harbor, Ford Island , is used by the United States Navy for battle simulations and training. The native name of the island is Mokuʻumeʻume, though Ford Island has been called Little Goats Island, Rabbit Island, and Marin’s Island. 

Ford Island is an active military base and home to the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, the Battleship Missouri Memorial, the USS Oklahoma Memorial, and the USS Utah Memorial.

A visit here is full of history, having been named on the National Register of Historic Places and a National Historic Landmark. 

An upscale resort settled on 22 acres that stretches across Waikiki Beach, Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort features a spa, five pools, a saltwater lagoon, an oceanfront steakhouse, and 20 restaurants. 

Whether you stay at this classy hotel or not is up to you, but guests and visitors alike can hit up the resort’s saltwater lagoon – Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon. The five-acre lagoon is perfect for lazing in the water or on beach chairs and trying stand-up paddle yoga.

Outside the resort is Duke Kahanamoku Beach, where visitors can take surf lessons or savor the immaculate vibes of soaking up the sun while sipping on a refreshing pina colada! 

• Address: 2005 Kālia Rd, Honolulu, HI 96815
• Phone Number: (808) 949-4321

Here is our full list of the best things to do in Honolulu if you find yourself with extra time!

Day 5 in Oahu

Learn how to surf at one of the world’s most famous beaches, and then try hiking Diamond Head State Monument for a fun day out in nature. Finally, snorkel your way through the magical waters of Hanauma Bay, stock full of vibrant colored marine life! 

Drawing millions of visitors every year, Waikiki Beach is by far one of the most famous beaches in the world!

Visitors to Waikiki Beach are welcomed by the iconic statue of surfing legend and father, Duke Kahanamoku.

This beach, in particular, is notorious for being an excellent location for learning how to surf and paddle on authentic Hawaiian canoes due to its lasting wave breaks. From Waikiki Beach are inspiring observational points of Diamond Head and the sea. 

Consider this Waikiki snorkel and sailing adventure to cruise on a catamaran, whale watch, go snorkeling, and sail the waters for a rejuvenating experience!  

Diamond Head is a volcanic cone on Oahu, and its ridgeline is likened to a tuna fish’s dorsal fin, hence its Hawaiian name Lēʻahi (brow of the tuna).

When British soldiers traveled to the surrounding location in the 19th century, they mistakenly believed the calcite crystals on one of the nearby beaches were diamonds, hence its name, Diamond Head. 

The Diamond Head State Monument is accessible by a hiking trail that traverses a scenic path up to the 300,000-year-old volcanic crater. From this spot, hikers can relish the breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the island of Oahu.

This Diamond Head Sunrise Hike takes you up to breathe in the panoramic views atop Diamond Head as the sun rises, then savor a refreshing acai bowl and sweet treat for a rewarding delight!

Home to a prosperous marine ecosystem, Hanauma Bay was formed within a volcanic cone. The marine embayment is part of a tuff ring, its waters thriving with tropical fish, playful dolphins, and gentle sea turtles. 

Snorkeling and swimming are popular activities within Hanauma Bay, thanks to the safe swimming waters and optimal marine life sightings.

There is a rental shop for renting out snorkel gear, picnic tables, restrooms, showers, locker rentals, a gift shop, and a food concession stand, making it easy to spend a whole day scouring the waters of Hanauma Bay!

7-Day Oahu Itinerary

Our 3-day itinerary is the core of any trip to Oahu for a fantastic start to your vacation on the island. However, if you plan on staying longer, our 7 day Oahu itinerary compiles even more top attractions.

With 7 days on Oahu, you’ll have more time to explore the rugged Windward Coast, which is often overlooked by the Oahu North Shore and South Shore. Get ready to have the trip of a lifetime with our 7-day Oahu itinerary!

Day 6 in Oahu

For day 6 in Oahu, you’ll head to the Windward Coast, a dramatic and beautiful corner of the East Coast of the island. Visit Sea Life Park and hit up the two top-ranked beaches, Lanikai Beach and Kailua Beach, for a breathtaking experience in a tropical paradise!

Located on Oahu’s Windward Coast, Sea Life Park is an aquarium, bird sanctuary, and marine mammal park all in one.

Then, take your pick between two of the world’s most pristine beaches, Lanikai Beach and Kailua Beach, nestled conveniently next door to one another, to savor the undeniable beauty of Oahu! 

At Sea Life Park, visitors can experience the magic of many beautiful marine creatures that focuses on conservation and education. This is a great activity for the whole family!

• Address: 41-202 Kalanianaʻole Hwy, Waimanalo Beach, HI 96795
• Phone Number: (808) 259-2500
• Hours: 10 AM – 4 PM (Daily)

You need to have at least a few relaxing beach days while visiting Oahu! Also known as Kaʻōhao Beach, Lanikai Beach is nestled on the east shore of Oahu.

Representing Oahu as one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, Lanikai Beach is frequently ranked as one of the best beaches across the globe!

The cool blue waters are a sight for sore eyes, the sand soft to the touch. Experience a bit of heaven at Lanikai Beach while savoring the breathtaking ocean views! 

One of the other top-ranking beaches on Oahu, Kailua Beach, is an absolute stunner next to Lanikai Beach! The two beaches are within walking distance of one another, so you can get a taste of both worlds at these top-ranked beaches.

Kailua Beach hosts a longer stretch of sand than Lanikai Beach, perfect for settling down in the sand and basking in the awe-inspiring views of the turquoise waters and mountain backdrops. 

Day 7 in Oahu

Picture the iconic sights of Kaneohe Bay before you as you explore the waters of this enriching location on Oahu.

Then, sink your toes into the sand and kayak to an island of legends at Kualoa Regional Park. Finally, to end this 7-day Oahu itinerary, visit the iconic filming locations of the famous Jurassic Park movies at Kualoa Ranch!

The largest sheltered body of water of the main Hawaiian Islands, Kaneohe Bay, is established by a reef. It homes a sandbar and five islands, including the well-loved Coconut Island. These qualities have made Kaneohe Bay a popular boating, fishing, and kayaking spot. 

The stunning blue waters of Kaneohe Bay make for an impactful picture. In fact, Kaneohe Bay has been the backdrop for quite a few famous movies, including Adam Sandler’s 50 First Dates . Surrounding the bay is the Ko’olau Mountain range, establishing an iconic backdrop. 

Settled on Kāneʻohe Bay, Kualoa Regional Park sprawls across 153 acres, its beachfront area set within sight of the island of Mokoli’i.

This island is featured in ancient legends and is said to be the tail of the creature slain by the goddess Pele. As a result, many come to Koʻolau Range to kayak to the island from the beachy shore.

It has a long stretch of grassy space that separates it from the Kamehameha Highway, so visitors of the park can simmer in the crash of the waves at the beach. 

• Address: 49-479 Kamehameha Hwy, Kaneohe, HI 96744
• Phone Number: (808) 768-8974
• Hours: 7 AM – 8 PM (Daily)

Famous for being the filming location of the Jurassic Park series, the 4,000-acre Kualoa Ranch is a private nature reserve and working cattle ranch overflowing with thriving nature. 

On Kualoa Ranch’s Jurassic Adventure Tour, guests are taken on an adventure of the iconic film sites within the Hakipu’u, Kualoa, and Ka’a’awa Valleys.

The tour takes visitors to the authentic dinosaur cages used for the movies and sightings of the Indominus Rex paddock and its 60-foot walls! 

• Address: Kaneohe, HI 96744
• Phone Number: (808) 237-7321
• Hours : 7:30 AM – 6 PM (Daily)

Read next: 21 Best Things To Do In Waikiki, Hawaii

Oahu, Hawaii Travel Guide

Now that you know all about the wonders of Oahu, you can plan some of the logistics! From getting a rental car, to planning the best time to visit, to booking a hotel or vacation rental, here are some travel tips for visiting Oahu!

The best time to visit Oahu is in the off-season when tourist crowds aren’t so large, and weather conditions are still ideal for adventuring the island’s great outdoors.

We recommend visiting in April, May, September, and October. These months are also the cheapest months to visit, so look out for some great deals during your stay! 

If you’re visiting the island for those iconic surf breaks, you’ll want to visit in winter. This is when the waves are at their biggest and best! But remember, these waves are for experienced surfers only. If you’re a beginner surfer, you can learn to surf on small waves at any time of year.

When traveling around Oahu, a rental car is the best way to get around. You have the freedom to go wherever, whenever.

But if you don’t want to rent a car, Oahu’s bus system is one of the best in the United States and is one of the cheapest transportation methods on the island (minus walking, but that can only get you so far!). 

There’s also this Honolulu Airport private transfer for when you fly in or out of Honolulu Airport. The transfer can fit up to 14 passengers in the private van, perfect for big groups or families visiting the island. 

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

Where to Stay in Oahu, Hawaii

If you’re wondering where to stay in Oahu, there are great options for every budget! Waikiki is the most popular area to stay with the most options, and it’s near the airport. From here you can rent a car or book tours to the rest of the attractions on Oahu!

Offering a range of selections, The Beach Waikiki Hostel by ALOH has pickings for private bedrooms and dorm rooms during your stay in Oahu. Only two blocks from the famous Waikiki Beach, this hostel is a great stay featuring fun and welcoming vibes with a desirable location near Oahu’s best attractions.

Boasting a desirable location, Waikiki Central Hotel is within walking distance of top Oahu activities, such as the US Army Museum of Hawaii, Waikiki Beach, and Kuhio Beach. From the rooms, guests have balcony views of the city from above while savoring their relaxing stay on the island. 

Only three miles from Diamond Head, ESPACIO The Jewel of Waikiki is a luxurious and elegant hotel perfect for living the lavish life in paradise on Oahu. Guests can access desirable amenities and accommodations, including airport transfers, the hotel’s spa, the resort pool, and a Japanese-French restaurant. 

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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How to spend the ultimate weekend on Oʻahu, Hawaii

Apr 25, 2024 • 7 min read

Make the most of a short visit to O'ahu, Hawaii, with this itinerary © Pgiam / Getty Images

There’s a reason why Oʻahu is nicknamed the Gathering Place – it’s the Hawaiian island that has everything.

Here you'll enjoy buzzy restaurants, golden beaches , luxe resorts, historic sites, walkable neighborhoods, trendy boutiques and hiking trails with breathtaking panoramic views.

Born and raised on the island, Oʻahu is more than just my home. It’s where I surfed my first wave, where I fell in love with hiking, where I always want to come back to after traveling elsewhere. It combines the excitement of city life with the laid-back island vibe of sunny beaches, verdant mountains and mai tais by the pool.

A long weekend may not be enough – but it’s a start. First, here are some quick tips to help you plan:

• When to arrive: Arriving on a Thursday morning is perfect. That way you’ll have a full day to rest and unwind before an extended 3-day weekend.
• How to get from the airport: It's best to rent a car at the airport. You’ll need one to explore the entire island (the  public bus system is great, with stops all over Oʻahu, but it’s faster to get around in a rental car). Rideshare is available, too; the average cost from the airport to Waikiki (about 9 miles) is $30.
• Getting around: The city bus has routes all over the island, with stops at the most popular visitor attractions on Oʻahu. The Waikiki Trolley offers limited routes, the farthest to Sea Life Park, about 15 miles from Waikiki. The  city’s only bikeshare program is available in urban Honolulu . To see all of Oʻahu, though, you’ll need a rental car.
• Where to stay: Of all the islands, Oʻahu has the most diverse range of accommodations, from budget-friendly  Hotel Renew in Waikiki to the luxe  Four Seasons Resort Oʻahu in Ko ʻOlina on the island’s west side. It’s the only island with a  Disney-themed hotel , complete with water slides and character-filled breakfast experiences.
• What to pack: Bring casual beachwear, something warm just in case, shoes you can walk and hike in, something dressy for dinner, swimwear, flip flops (we call them slippers) and reef-safe sunscreen.

Want to spend time on the beach? Here's our guide to the best in Hawaii

Morning: Assuming you’re staying in Waikiki, wake up and head out early. Grab a bullet coffee or acai bowl at Sunrise Shack , a cute North Shore-based cafe started by surfers with a location in the Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort . If you’re looking for a casual breakfast, head to Heavenly Island Lifestyle Waikiki ; this laid-back spot has a variety of brunch dishes, from sweet bread French toast with local honey and fruits to a spicy tomato shakshuka. Morning is the best time to walk along Waikiki Beach and watch surfers nab early waves.

How to spend the day: Waikiki is the birthplace of surfing – and it also happens to be the best place on the island to learn the sport. Book with locally owned Waikīkī Beach Services for a 75-minute lesson in the friendly waves where Native Hawaiian Olympians Duke Kahanamoku and Carissa Moore both grew up surfing. Or jump in an outrigger canoe – an important part of Hawaiʻi’s rich culture – to catch waves. This is the only place on the island where you can experience outrigger canoe surfing.

My go-to, post-surf lunch spot is Rainbow Drive-In on Kapahulu Ave. This local favorite, around for more than 60 years, serves hearty plate lunches and slush floats, which I highly recommend. For something lighter, get an ahi poke (cubed raw fish) bowl from nearby  ʻOno Seafood . Try the boiled peanuts – it’s a local specialty.

Dinner: Sip on handcrafted cocktails at sunset at Hau Tree , the oceanfront restaurant at the revamped Kaimana Beach Hotel. Share a bunch of small plates or splurge on the housemade pasta or fresh fish entrées. If you want to get out of Waikiki, Chinatown – about 4 miles west – boasts some of the island’s best restaurants, including Fête Hawaiʻi , a hip bistro with great cocktails and dishes inspired by French, Italian, Korean and Hawaiʻi flavors. In 2022, chef-owner Robynne Maii was the first female chef from Hawaii to win the prestigious James Beard Award, the state’s first in nearly 20 years. I’m obsessed with the Chaz burger, local-style carbonara and the Rocky Road to Hana ice cream. Reservations are required.

After dark: Oʻahu is the only Hawaiian island with a robust nightlife, and Waikiki is a great spot to find live music. Located in the Outrigger Waikīkī Beach Resort, Blue Note Hawaii is an intimate venue – just 326 seats with a full-service restaurant and bar – that hosts a range of musical and comedy talents, from LeeAnn Rimes to Rob Schneider. Halekūlani’s House Without a Key offers traditional hula and live Hawaiian music until 10pm.

Morning: Get an early start with a 30-mile drive to the North Shore along the Kamehameha Highway (that means heading east toward Kahuku.) The drive is part of the experience. This two-lane highway hugs the coastline, passing through rural towns, past roadside farm stands and stretches of empty beaches. Stop for a Spam musubi (block of rice with a slice of fried Spam on top, wrapped with a strip of nori) and butter mochi at the family-run Kaya’s Store in Hauʻula or a slice of chocolate- haupia (coconut) pie at Ted’s Bakery near Sunset Beach.

How to spend the day: If you’re on Oʻahu during the winter months, you’ll likely witness the spectacle surrounding the seasonal big waves. Beaches are packed with surfers and spectators, eager to catch the winter’s monster surf. During other times of the year, though, this stretch of coastline is quieter, the beaches less crowded. Laniakea Beach is a popular stop to see honu , or Hawaiian green sea turtles, basking on the beach (you have to stay at least 10ft away from them on land and in water). Or grab a snorkel – you can rent one from a surf shop – and hit Shark’s Cove, with natural rocky outcroppings that protect tide pools home to more than 70 fish species (this is a summer activity, as ocean conditions are calm). Feast on garlicky shrimp scampi from Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck or head to the roadside cafe at the family-run Kahuku Farms for a smoothie, slice of farm pizza or acai bowl, the ingredients of which are grown on-site.

Dinner: There’s nothing better than eating outdoors — except eating farm-to-table dishes crafted by James Beard Award-winning local chef Roy Yamaguchi. His restaurant, Roy’s Beach House at the recently updated Turtle Bay Resort , offers stunning ocean views and a menu that includes inventive sushi rolls, seafood and his signature molten chocolate cake. If you’re here on a Wednesday, the hotel’s Paniolo Lūʻau is worth checking out.

Like to walk? Here's our guide to the top hiking routes in Hawaii  

Morning: Catch the sunrise at the top of the Kaʻiwa Ridge Trail, better known as the Lanikai Pillbox Trail. It’s a 1-mile, mostly uphill trek to two concrete pillboxes built in early 1943. I park at Kailua Beach and walk to the trailhead, which is tucked away in a residential neighborhood. There’s no better view of the famous Nā Mokulua (“twin islands”) off Lanikai Beach. Then head to Over Easy , a casual family-run eatery that serves crispy-edged pancakes, Cinnamon Toast Crunch-crusted French Toast and (my favorite) potato ‘n‘ eggs.

How to spend the day: I regularly walk Kailua Beach , which stretches for 2.5 miles with views of Popoiʻa Island (aka Flat Island) and the Mokulua Islands. Enjoy a nice stroll or just sit and watch the action: kiteboarders, canoe paddlers, swimmers, folks walking their dogs. Stop at Kalapawai Market for a quick snack, sandwich or fish taco. This coastal town is very walkable, with cute boutiques, hip coffee shops and trendy restaurants all nearby. Treat yourself to shave ice at Island Snow Hawaiʻi ; the shop (which Hawaiʻi-born President Barack Obama frequents) boasts all-natural syrups in island flavors like lilikoʻi (passion fruit), guava, Kona coffee and dragon fruit. Then wander through the aisles of Bookends , a beloved new and used bookshop, where you can find beach (or airplane) reads for under $5. 

If you must now end your Oʻahu vacation, make the 30-minute drive from Kailua to the airport. If not, explore the rest of this beach town, to see what else Oʻahu has to offer. And trust me, there’s a lot more.

Keep planning your trip to Hawaii:

Figure out the best island for your trip Learn the best times to avoid the crowds Check out our first-timer's guide to  Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park

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Best 40 Things to Do on Oahu, Hawaii (the list + map you need)

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The island of Oahu in Hawaii is best known for its Waikiki Beach, stunning mountains, and gorgeous beaches. But it can also feel like a crowded, big city. Let us show you the best things to do on Oahu, Hawaii so you can escape from Waikiki to visit the country of this Hawaiian paradise.

Most things to do on Oahu lists take you randomly around the island. Here, I’ll show the best things to do starting in Waikiki, greater Honolulu, and then clockwise around Oahu. 

With maps, directions, and why we love the activity, you can start planning your trip to Oahu easily. 

My wife Erica and I lived on Oahu and now visit Oahu two to three times a year with our kids (sometimes with our dog Hattie ). We are constantly exploring to find the new, best places to eat, things to do, and tours.

Our free Oahu Travel Guide has more to help you plan your trip to Oahu. You also won’t want to miss the best beaches , snorkel spots , and places to stay on Oahu .

Things to Do on Oahu Video

One of our most popular videos is 21 Things to Do Around Oahu. This article contains even more things to do but we’ve found a video is the best way to show you what you can expect with the best things to do on Oahu. 

If this video doesn’t get you excited about your Hawaii vacation , I don’t know what will.

After all these amazing things to do on Oahu, you may be asking yourself how many days do you need on Oahu?

If your a family traveling to Oahu, see our 23 Things to Do on Oahu with Kids !

Best Things to Do on Oahu in Waikiki

Waikiki is a neighborhood in the city of Honolulu, on the island of Oahu. As the most popular part of Oahu to stay in, Waikiki has a lot to do but also can feel crowded. We always recommend taking a day during your Oahu vacation to relax around Waikiki to walk the main avenue, Kealakakaua Avenue, and sunbathe and swim on Waikiki Beach. 

Here are the best things to do while you enjoy Waikiki.

Check out the map below for a list of all our things to do in Waikiki. Then, see our 7 Best Family Hotels on Oahu for ideas on where to stay and our favorite places to stay in Waikiki .

Do you need a rental car to do all these things on Oahu? Oahu is the only Hawaiian island that we don’t say a rental car is a must-have. See How to Get Around Oahu: Car, Bus, Bike, and More (a full guide) to decide if you need a rental car and what to do if you don’t get one.

Additional Hawaii planning resources:

• What to Pack for Your Hawaii Vacation
• Oahu vs Maui (from someone who has lived on both)
• Oahu vs Maui for Kids

1. Where to Escape the Crowds on Waikiki Beach

Waikiki Beach is a 2-mile-long, gold sand beach lined with highrise hotels. I love Waikiki Beach for the beautiful, clear water and views of the iconic Diamond Head. 

There is so much that makes Waikiki Beach famous , hence the crowds flock to this beach. Half of all visitors to Hawaii stay near Waikiki, usually for their first visit (see our first time to Hawaii guide for planning tips! )

Here is how to find a secluded section of Waikiki Beach. Waikiki Beach is divided up into multiple sections or beaches. The far sides of the 2-mile stretch of beach have far fewer people than the areas in the middle, like in front of the Royal Hawaiian or Moana Surfrider hotels.

To escape the crowds in Waikiki, go to Kahanamoku Beach ( click for directions ) near the Hilton Hawaiian Village Resort. Kahanamoku Beach has been rated the best beach in the country by Dr. Beach for its wide, sandy beach and its great spot for swimming. You will also get epic views of Diamond Head. And a good place to see the fireworks, see below!

Our second favorite secluded spot in Waikiki is on the Diamond Head side of the beach. Go to Queen’s Beach ( click for directions ) to find a place for your towel. We like this part of the beach as there is the Waikiki Wall (small jetty), volleyball courts, and shade near the park side of the beach. 

2. Surf Waikiki Beach

Waikiki Beach is well known for its surf break. The long, slow rolling waves are perfect to learn how to surf. You can take surf lessons ( Erica was so much better at surfing than me ) or grab a board for $20 for three hours from dudes on the beach.

The surf breaks, starting on the Diamond Head side, are Publics, Queen’s, Canoes, Populars, Threes, Fours, Kaisers, and Rockpiles. You will easily see where everyone is surfing once you are on Waikiki Beach. 

If you have never surfed before then a surf lesson ( our favorite surf school is at Publics ) is highly recommended to get you started safely.

A good surfboard rental location is between the banyan tree and the Kuhio Beach Hula Mound and the Duke Kahanamoku statue. You will find local vendors renting out surfboards. Bring cash and look for the surf racks. 

Directions: Kuhio Beach Hula Mound, Kalakaua Ave., Honolulu, HI

Grab our favorite reef-safe, mineral-based sunscreens before you head into the water for surfing and swimming at the beaches below.

3. Friday Fireworks

The show is back! Every Friday night the Hilton Hawaiian Village has a 4-minute fireworks show. From June to September, the show starts at 8:00 PM. The show switches to a 7:45 PM start in the fall. 

You don’t have to be a guest at the resort to see the show. Find a nice place on the beach near the hotel. The best viewing will be from Fort Derussy Beach Park ( click for directions ) to Kahanamoku Beach.

4. Acai Bowls at Tropical Tribe

Our favorite acai bowls in Waikiki are at Tropical Tribe. The small cafe with counter service has the best Brazilian acai bowls with fresh fruit in Waikiki. Located on the Ewa Side, near the Hilton Hawaiian Village, look for the small cafe at street level. 

Directions: 1778 Ala Moana Blvd #101, Honolulu, HI 96815

5. Fresh Poke at Sato Seafood

There is nothing more authentic than fresh poke when you are in Hawaii. While we love getting poke at local grocery stores like Foodland, Sato Seafood serves up unique and delicious poke bowls right in Waikiki.

Order the Hawaiian Munchies or Spicy Maui Maui. You can’t go wrong with their generous portions and quick service. Eat there or take it a block to the beach.

Directions: 2310 Kūhiō Ave. #215, Honolulu, HI 96815

If Muragame Udon has too long of a line, Sato Seafood is right next door.

6. Japanese Noodle House

Sure the line can be long at Muragame Udon, but it is worth the wait in our opinion. Watch them make the noodles and cook your udon right in front of you. 

Grab a tray, order your udon, and then pick up additional bites like tempura or spam musubi in this cafeteria-style restaurant. 

Directions: 2310 Kūhiō Ave., Honolulu, HI 96815

7. Hula and Happy Hour

If you don’t have time to attend one of Oahu’s best luaus, then House Without a Key is a good substitute. 

Directions: 2199 Kālia Rd, Honolulu, HI 96815

Located in the luxury Halekulani hotel, House Without a Key is an open-air patio lounge serving up amazing mai tais, pupus (appetizers), and a light dinner fare. But we come for world-class hula performances and live Hawaiian music. 

With views of Diamond Head and the Hawaiian band playing under a 100-year-old kiawe tree, this happy hour shouldn’t be missed.

If you’re on Oahu now searching for things to do on Oahu or you are just starting your Hawaii vacation planning, then check out our Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary . 

Let two professional Hawaii travelers show you the best things to do around Oahu on planned excursion days. No need to write these all down, download our itinerary and you’re off! Learn more below.

Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary

Get the oahu itinerary.

The step-by-step itinerary takes you to all the best beaches, snorkeling spots, restaurants, and sights. You’ll get six carefully planned excursion days to help you see the can’t miss stops no matter how limited your time is.

Get all the details on our itinerary and download it for a memorable and easily planned trip to Oahu.

Things to Do on Oahu: Honolulu

Let’s escape from Waikiki to explore things to do in Honolulu. Honolulu is called the Manhattan of the Pacific with its highrise offices and apartment buildings. We love Honolulu for its culture, nightlife, and food. Such amazing food options due to the Pacific island cuisine.

Our favorite neighborhoods are Kapahulu, Kaka’ako, and Chinatown. We have things to do in each. Plus, don’t forget the culture with trips to ‘Iolani Palace and the Bishop Museum.  

But our first thing to do is to beat jetlag with a hike. 

See the map below for all these things to do in Honolulu.

Free Oahu Itineraries for more things to do on Oahu!

• Oahu Travel Guide
• The Best 5-Day Oahu Itinerary
• 7-Day Oahu Itinerary Without a Rental Car
• Your 10-Day Oahu and Maui Itinerary

The free itineraries are great but our Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary is world-class (not just our biased opinion).

We are going to Oahu, Maui, and Big Island over the course of 21 days, so I have loved your itineraries–seriously they are a must-have lifeline for planning a trip to Hawaii! Kim S.

8. Diamond Head Crater Hike

Diamond Head Crater Hike starts inside a 300,00-year-old volcano, about a 15-minute drive from Waikiki. A reservation for the Diamond Head hike is now required. The moderate 0.8-mile hike rises up 560 feet to an observation deck overlooking Waikiki and the east coast of Oahu.

Explore an old military bunker inside the volcano and take amazing photos of Waikiki. Rainbow views are possible with a morning hike. The gates open at 6:00 AM so come on over for those jetlagged travelers.

Directions: Diamond Head Crater Trailhead

Diamond Head Crater Hike made our list of the 7 best easy hikes on Oahu .

9. Leonard’s Bakery for Malasadas

Leonard’s Bakery makes it onto all things to do in Honolulu lists and for good reason. Their large, fluffy malasadas live up to the hype. Malasadas are Portuguese donuts with a fruit or chocolate filling. 

The doughy pastries are light, warm, and delicious in the morning with a coffee. The line does get huge at their original location on Kapahulu Avenue just outside of Waikiki.

Directions: 933 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816

See if you can order online to skip the line (they discontinue the online service at times) or plan on arriving early.

Another way to skip the line is to visit one of the many MalasadaMobiles they have conveniently located around Oahu. Bring cash for those and they only serve three types of malasadas at them.

10. Ono Seafood

The colorful red building with an art mural on the side is hard to miss from Kapahulu Avenue. Locals flock to this seafood restaurant for poke and more fresh seafood dishes. The no-frills place is relaxing and delicious. 

There are a lot of great restaurants on Kapahulu Avenue such as Rainbow Drive-In and Kono’s. You won’t go hungry on this avenue on the Diamond Head side of Waikiki.

Directions: 747 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816

11. Waiola Shave Ice

Shave ice is a must when you visit Hawaii . The fluffy ice and the flavors are a must when it is hot out and it is always a nice, hot temperature in Hawaii. 

Waiola Shave Ice is a classic. While there are few around Honolulu, the one below is the original and a short drive from Waikiki. 

Directions: 2135 Waiola St, Honolulu, HI 96826

Shave ice made our 5 Unforgettable Hawaii Foods You Have to Try video. 

12. Honolulu Nightlife

Honolulu is the place to go (the only place to go) in Hawaii for nightlife. The Hawaiian Islands can feel sleepy as most bars and lounges hardly make it to midnight on the neighbor islands. But in Honolulu, you can find hip lounges, wine bars, and even some clubs. 

For a little bar hopping in Waikiki, check out Lewers Street for Roy’s, Yard House, and some dive bars.

Our favorite area to go to in Honolulu is the hip and trendy restaurants and lounges in Chinatown. These award-winning restaurants, like Fete who is a 2022 James Beard winner, have great food and even better drinks. 

Head to North Hotel Street in Chinatown to find the likes of Lucky Belly, The Manifest, Little Village Noodle House, O’Kims, The Dragon Upstairs, Bar 35, The Tchin Tchin! Bar, and so many more.

Directions to North Hotel Street: 35 N Hotel St, Honolulu, HI 96817

13. Ala Moana Beach

Ala Moana Beach is the place where locals go in Honolulu for the beach. The large beach park has its own L&L Hawaiian Barbecue, Magic Island Lagoon, and a well-protected beach for kids (keiki). 

Located in front of the Ala Moana Shopping Center, an upscale shopping center with a great food court, and next to Waikiki, Ala Moana Beach doesn’t have the Waikiki crowds and is a good place to take the kids for a beach day.

Directions to Ala Moana Beach Park

For those families out there exploring Oahu, read our 23 Things to Do on Oahu with Kids for more ideas!

14. Kaka’ako Street Art

Kaka’ako is an old neighborhood of Honolulu that has been re-developed with condo towers, restaurants, and breweries. We like the breweries for dinner and drinks. But, you can make an evening out of this neighborhood by walking the murals.

Kaka’ako has murals everywhere. Start at Mother Waldron Neighborhood Park and just follow the murals. You can’t miss them.

Directions: Cooke St, Honolulu, HI 96813

Watch our Escape from Waikiki video for our day out exploring unique things to do around Honolulu. 

15. ‘Iolani Palace

The ‘Iolani Palace was the royal residence of the Kingdom of Hawaii. The palace had electricity and running water before the White House. Come to learn about the royal family, the forced overthrow of the kingdom, and Hawaiian history in this well-preserved, stately palace in the heart of Honolulu.

Directions: 364 S King St, Honolulu, HI 96813

‘Iolani Palace is located in Historic Downtown Honolulu. Across from the palace, you will find Ali’iolani Hale, home to the state supreme court and the famous King Kamehameha The Great Statue. You can take our favorite Pearl Harbor guided tour that includes a tour of historic Honolulu.

Historic Downtown Honolulu gets bedazzled for Christmas. From parades to Christmas craft festivals, you will love Honolulu in December. See our Things to Do in Hawaii During Christmas . 

If you’re thinking of visiting Hawaii for a Christmas vacation, then you gotta read our 19 Tips to Plan Your Hawaii Christmas Vacation .

16. Historic Chinatown and the Arts District

As I mentioned in the Honolulu Nightlife thing to do, Chinatown is a fun part of the city to explore. A Chinatown walking tour is a wonderful way to hear the rich history and taste the food or go out and explore yourself.

The area has unique architecture and great food from Vietnamese to Chinese to Hawaiian and everything in between. There are also a lot of shopping and art galleries. 

The first Friday of the month is home to a lively street festival. The art galleries turn into lounges and street performers fight for your attention. It is the place to be for First Friday . 

Directions to Chinatown Parking Lot: 888 Nuuanu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96817

17. Best Honolulu Sunset Spot

Tantalus Look is the place to come for the sunset and amazing views of Waikiki and Diamond Head. Located 25 minutes (6 miles) from Waikiki, drive up a windy road to Pu’u Ualakaa State Park. Bring a picnic and a picnic blanket to sit on the lawn overlooking the grandeur of Honolulu and the Pacific Ocean. 

The sunset view is best during the winter but even during the summer, this is worth visiting.

Directions: Nutridge St, Honolulu, HI 96822

18. Kamehameha Bakery

While everyone is lined up at Leonard’s Bakery just outside of Waikiki, drive over to Kahili Neighborhood for another famous bakery. Get their maladas or one of their many amazing donuts and freshly baked bread.

Directions: 1284 Kalani St Unit D106, Honolulu, HI 96817

19. Bishop Museum

The Bishop Museum showcases exhibits on Polynesian culture and natural history. This is our favorite museum in Hawaii. Our kids love the science center where they can go inside a volcano and get hands-on with science. I enjoy the Polynesian voyaging exhibits and then heading to Highway Inn Cafe for a Hawaii plate lunch.

The Hawaii Hall alone is worth checking out with three wood floors featuring Hawaiian history. It reminds me of the great museums in London.

Directions: 1525 Bernice St, Honolulu, HI 96817

20. Honolulu Helicopter Tours

While we don’t always recommend a helicopter tour in Hawaii due to the weather, the team at Honolulu Helicopter Tours has the best safety record on Oahu. They offer tours for different budgets too. From an 18-minute flight over Honolulu and Diamond Head to a 60-minute circle island tour, you should check them out to get above Honolulu for a fresh perspective. 

Save 5% on all their tours with promo code HVG, learn more and book here: Honolulu Helicopter Tours .

21. Pearl Harbor National Memorial

Welcome to one of the most popular sites on Oahu ( this is the other one ). Pearl Harbor National Memorial brings thousands of visitors a day to pay their respects, learn about the air raid, and visit the historical sites. 

Pearl Harbor is 25-minutes away from Waikiki so it isn’t in Honolulu but I’ll keep it simple for this list. 

Directions: 1 Arizona Memorial Pl, Honolulu, HI 96818

Hop in an Uber, Taxi, Lyft, or drive yourself to the visitor center. But, before you arrive make sure you make a reservation for t he USS Arizona. Reservations can be tough to get, especially during the busy holiday season and summer.

You can skip the hassle of driving and getting a reservation by booking a guided Pearl Harbor and Historic Honolulu City Tour with our favorite local tour group. They will pick you up and drop you off at your hotel.

Bags are not allowed in the Pearl Harbor National Memorial. Also, make sure to hop on the free shuttle to take you to Ford Island. Home of the Battleship Missouri Memorial and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum .

If this is your home base, Honolulu has more… way more to offer! Check out our full list of things to do in Honolulu .

Things to Do on Oahu: Ko Olina and Waianae

We lived in Ko Olina, on the leeward side of Oahu, for a couple of years. Ko Olina is at the start of Waianae, the West Side of Oahu. 

Waianae is a residential area of Oahu. Therefore, it is not a place visitors go often and we support that. But, there are some places of note and tours to explore.

22. Ko Olina Lagoons at Ko Olina Resorts

Ko Olina Resorts are known as the home of Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa, but Ko Olina is better known to us for the lagoons. One of the 10 best beaches on Oahu is the Ko Olina lagoons.

We love these lagoons for the calm waters for our kids, proximity to the resort restaurants for lunch and snacks, and the big, empty beaches. 

The lagoons are man-made. Blasted from the volcanic rock as part of the Ko Olina Resorts development, the lagoons are open to the public and ready for your vacation. Arrive before 9:00 AM for a free, public parking spot. See our Oahu itinerary for details.

Stay in Ko Olina (see our Ultimate Ko Olina Guide ) or stay in Waikiki, you can hop over to this dry and sunny side of the island for amazing beaches.

While you are over here, book a tour with our favorite Oahu snorkel tour to see dolphins and sea turtles. Or stay till sunset for their Ko Olina Sunset Sail .

23. Electric Beach for Snorkeling

Electric Beach made our #1 spot for the best snorkeling on Oahu . The beach’s namesake is due to being located in front of a large power plant (Hawaii Electric or HECO). The snorkel spot is abundant in fish as the fish congregate around the hot water discharge from the power plant. 

This snorkel spot is only for advanced swimmers and snorkelers. It is risky because you have to swim out over 100 yards to the snorkel spot, it is in water that is over 30 feet deep, there can be currents or rough surf, and there are no lifeguards on duty. It is not an easy snorkel spot so swim with a buddy and understand the ocean conditions. 

You will be greeted by a lot of fish making for beautiful snorkeling. 

Directions: 92-301 Farrington Hwy, Kapolei, HI 96707

I park at Kahe Point Beach Park. Car break-ins are common in this parking lot so don’t leave valuables or anything in the car.

24. Maili Pillbox (Pink Pillbox) Hike

Pillbox hikes are very popular on Oahu. These are bunkers from the military defenses built to protect the island before and during WWII. We share the history of many of them in this video: All of Oahu’s Pillbox Hikes Explained (plus the history): 5 Honolulu Pillbox Hikes . 

Most of Oahu’s great hikes are located on the windward and east side of Oahu so this one is special. Located on top of Pu’u O Hulu, you can hike the 45-minutes to the pink pillbox, up a steep trail. Beautiful, sweeping views of the Waianae coast will reward you. It is hot and sunny on this part of the island so bring water and sun protection.  

Directions: Pink Pillbox Trail, Waianae, HI 96792

25. Oahu’s Best Whale Watching

The best locations for whale watching on Oahu are on the North Shore and Waianae. Waianae is my favorite as you can expect better weather and calmer seas during whale seasons. The annual humpback whale migration to Hawaii is from December through March, 

While Maui is our favorite island for whale watching , Oahu has some excellent viewing also. 

Our favorite whale-watching tour leaves from Waianae Small Boat Harbor. Head out on a power raft for up-close encounters with majestic humpback whales. We like this tour for the fast rafts increase your chances of seeing them (they don’t chase but cover more ground) and their staff of marine biologists that are full of knowledge. Learn more and book here – Waianae Whale Watching .

Directions: Waianae Small Boat Harbor at 85-491 Farrington Hwy, Waianae, HI 96792

26. Dolphin and Snorkeling Tour

If you can’t make it to Oahu during whale season then a dolphin excursion is your best option. Located at Waianae Small Boat Harbor, the team from Dolphin Excursions Hawaii will take you out to see Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins, Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles, and to epic snorkel spots on the Waianae Coast. 

Click to learn more about their Dolphin Excursion Tour or their Afternoon Snorkel Safari .

Things to Do on Oahu: North Shore

Time to leave Honolulu and the resorts to get out into the countryside of Oahu. Honolulu is considered town and the North Shore is considered country. Hence, Oahu-founded surfboard company called Town & Country. 

Our favorite area to visit on Oahu is North Shore. Make sure you leave one or two days in your itinerary to see everything. We sure do in our Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary !

Finally, time to head to North Shore Oahu. The home of Jack Johnson, big wave surfing competitions, waterfall hikes, and the best food trucks on the island. North Shore is also home to 10 Free Things to Do on North Shore Oahu and the Ehukai Pillbox Hike . If you still haven’t had your fill, we have another 21 Amazing Things to Do on Oahu’s North Shore .

27. Haleiwa Town

Haleiwa Town is the unofficial home base for the North Shore. We love this town for the food trucks, shave ice, and coffee shops. The art galleries and kayak and SUP in the river are also worth checking out.

Directions: Haleiwa, Oahu

Leave Waikiki in the morning so you can stop in Haleiwa for coffee at Haleiwa Cafe, Coffee Gallery, or Island Vintage Coffee (a chain but they have Kona coffee and good food). Then continue up the coast to do the things below. Come back to Haleiwa for lunch or dinner at a shrimp truck or food truck.

Stop at Kaimana Shave Ice and say, “ The Hawaii Vacation Guide brought you here .” You will save 10% on the freshest shave ice in Haleiwa. See our full list of coupon codes here .

28. North Shore Food Trucks

Did I mention the food on the North Shore? Giovanni’s was the original shrimp truck serving up spicy and buttery shrimp from their signature-covered truck in Kahuku, North Shore.

Check out one of the many shrimp and food truck parks in Haleiwa. You can’t miss them off the main road. Kaimana Shave Ice is located near a large food truck park, so you get two birds with one parking spot.

You will also find more trucks in Pupukea near Waimea Bay (across from Shark’s Cove) and in Kahuku, at the northern tip of Oahu.

29. Waimea Bay for a Beach Day

Waimea Bay is hard to miss as you drive up the North Shore on Kamehameha Highway. The road turns to present the beautiful bay with the bell tower in the background. 

Waimea Bay is probably the best beach on the North Shore. The bay has two drawbacks. Parking is limited in the public parking lot and along the road. Waimea Valley and the church charge for parking which I’ve found very helpful. The other drawback is the bay is calm from May to September but should be avoided during the winter. Big waves and strong currents make it a dangerous place to swim.

Pack a lunch and enjoy a day of swimming and relaxing on the beach at Waimea Bay. You will find lifeguards on duty, showers, and restroom facilities.

Directions: Waimea Bay Beach, North Shore, HI 96712

30. Waterfall Swim

If you’re looking for a waterfall swim on Oahu, this is the place to go. With many waterfalls being on private land, hard to reach, or dangerous, the 40-foot Waimea Valley waterfall is the place to go.

Waimea Valley is a botanical garden and Hawaiian cultural immersion area. You can spend half a day here at the arts and crafts booths, walking the valley’s gardens, exploring the Hawaiian villages, and swimming in the waterfall. This is a perfect spot for strollers and kids. It is also home to one of the best luaus in Hawaii .

Reserve your Full Day General Admission to Waimea Valley ticket here. This is a direct booking with Waimea Valley!

Directions: 59-864 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa, HI 96712

31. Shark’s Cove Snorkeling

Shark’s Cove made our list of the best snorkeling on Oahu . From May to September, the waves settle down for some epic snorkeling in the lava rock-protected lagoon. 

Lifeguards are on duty and there are restroom and shower facilities. A snorkel rental shop is across the street along with food trucks for lunch. 

We like Shark’s Cove for the clear water and the protected lagoon. Make sure the conditions are good for snorkeling before you go out by talking to the lifeguard and checking lifeguard flags. Grab our favorite reef-safe, mineral-based sunscreens before you head into the water.

Directions: Shark’s Cove at Pupukea Beach Park, Oahu

32. Romy’s Kahuku Shrimp Hut

As we continue up the North Shore, it may be time to stop for fresh shrimp. Just past Turtle Bay Resort are Fumi’s Kahuku Shrimp and Romy’s Kahuku Prawns and Shrimp Hut. These two serve up fresh shrimp from their shrimp ponds directly behind their huts. 

Romy’s is our favorite as we describe in the video below. Stop for a garlic butter shrimp plate before you move on down the road.

Directions: 56781 Kamehameha Hwy, Kahuku, HI 96731

North Shore Oahu is full of fruit stands and food trucks. You won’t be hungry as you spend the day up here.

33. Polynesian Cultural Center Lu’au

For many visitors to Oahu, this is the must-see thing to do on Oahu. Pearl Harbor National Memorial and the Polynesian Cultural Center attract more visitors than any other sites on Oahu.

Located near the northern tip of the Oahu in La’ie, the Polynesian Cultural Center is known for its luau dinner but we like it for the Islands of Polynesia. Walk past the luau area and into six island nations of Polynesia. Learn about the culture, games, songs, and stories of Samoa, Tonga, Hawaii, Aotearoa, Tahiti, and Fuji. Check out our full Polynesian Cultural Center review .

We recommend you arrive when they open at 12:30 to spend the afternoon there and then go to the Ali’i Luau or Gateway Buffet . Stay late for the HA: Breath of Life Show. Book below and save up to 20% on their luau packages as it is a direct booking link with the Polynesian Cultural Center.

If you’re on Oahu frantically searching for things to do or you are starting your Hawaii vacation planning, then check out our Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary . 

Let two professional Hawaii travelers show you the best things to do around Oahu on planned excursion days. Download our itinerary and you’re off! Learn more below.

Things to Do on Oahu: Windward

As we drive over the northern tip of Oahu, past Kahuku and La’ie, we enter windward Oahu. On the windward side, you will be greeted with lush rainforest and towering cliffs of the Ko’olau Range, the remnants of one of Oahu’s two distinct volcanoes.

After North Shore, windward Oahu is my favorite part of the island to visit. 

34. Kualoa Ranch Tours

When we lived on Oahu, the Polynesian Cultural Center and Kualoa Ranch felt too touristy to be worth my time. I regret that decision because they offer such great tours. They are both good places to learn the history of the islands. 

Kualoa Ranch is known as the Jurassic Valley as Jurassic Park and Lost World movies were filmed in part here, plus dozens of other movies. The ranch is a working cattle ranch and farm full of wonderful employees who like to share their stories. 

Visitors to Hawaii make the drive to Kualoa Ranch for the popular tours below, but they have so many more to offer.

• Kualoa Ranch ATV tours
• Kualoa Ranch Zipline
• Malama Aina Tour
• Explore all Kuoloa Ranch Tours here

Directions: 49-560 Kamehameha Hwy, Kaneohe, HI 96744

35. Kaneohe Sandbar

This place has become very popular in the past few years. Kaneohe Sandbar or Ahu O Laka in Hawaiian is a ridge of sand in Kaneohe Bay that becomes a beach island during low tide. 

The water is turquoise, the sand is white, the bay is calm, and sea turtle sightings are common.

Accessing the sandbar is limited. You can kayak by renting a kayak in Kailua or go out on a boat tour. As the sandbar can be tough to reach in a kayak, we recommend going on a boat tour. Boat tours include lunch, snacks, sunscreen, snorkel gear, and other comforts for a day out on the water.

Our favorite Kaneohe Sandbar tour leaves directly from the small boat harbor near the sandbar. Learn more about the best Kaneohe Sandbar boat tour .

Directions: 46-499 Kamehameha Hwy, Kaneohe, HI 96744

36. Lanikai Beach

Another one of our top 10 Oahu beaches is Lanikai Beach located in Kailua. Lanikai is known for its long, white sand beach with outrigger canoes parked on it from the local canoe club, and the views of the Mokulua Islands. 

We find ourselves at Lanikai Beach every time we visit Oahu. We recommend arriving early as there are no public parking lots, only street parking. Respect the neighbors by not blocking driveways or making a lot of noise. Spend the day at Lanikai or go on a kayak adventure.

Directions: Lanikai Beach, Kailua, HI 96734 

37. Kayak to the Mokes

Kayaking to the Mokulua Islands or the Mokes was our favorite activity to do with friends who visited us on Oahu.

Rent kayaks from the local shop, wheel them to Kailua Beach (another great beach) and make the short kayak trip out to the islands. 

You can rent kayaks and go yourself or you can go on a guided tour. If you’re not a confident kayaker then we recommend the guided tour. Click below to learn more.

• Self-Guided Kayak Discovery
• 2-Hour Guided Kayak + Beach Time

38. Waimanalo Beach Park

Welcome to the best walking beach on Oahu. At over 3-miles long with gorgeous views of the mountains and ocean, this white sand beach is worth a trip to the East Side of Oahu. 

Waimanalo Beach Park has abundant public parking, showers, restrooms, and a lifeguard on duty. The currents can get strong during the winter months so check with the lifeguard before heading out. 

We show you how to fit Waimanalo Beach and everything worth visiting in East Oahu in our Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary .

Directions: 41-741 Kalanianaʻole Hwy, Waimānalo, HI 96795

39. Makapu’u Beach & Lighthouse

Located on the far eastern tip of Oahu, Makapuu Beach and Lighthouse make for a nice morning out with the family. 

Makapuu Point Lighthouse Trail is a paved walking path that takes you up to the top of the point, with views of Makapuu Beach, Manana Island Seabird Sanctuary, and coastal views of Oahu. 

If you have time, head down to Makapuu Beach. It is a tucked-in beach that is nice for relaxing. It is known for bodysurfing so be careful of the surf break.

Directions: Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail, Waimanalo, HI 96795

40. Koko Head Crater Hike

Let’s finish strong with a hike to the top of a volcanic cinder cone. 

• Length: 1.8 miles
• Parking: Large parking lot at the bottom of the hill
• Avoid hiking for sunrise as no parking is available

This is more of a moderate hike, not because the terrain is challenging (there’s no hill to slide down or rocks to climb over) but because the hike is steep. This hike is a workout as you ascend up over 1,000 steps to reach the top. 

While it is a workout, it’s also a fun trail with some pretty amazing views. The steps that you take up to the top are old railroad tracks, which adds to the fun (you’re not just taking stairs up to the top). 

Oahu is the best Hawaiian Island for hiking in our opinion. Explore all of Oahu’s easiest hikes and moderate to advanced hikes .

More Things to Do with the Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary

Thanks for traveling with me around Oahu with this epic things-to-do list. We find ourselves going back to Oahu multiple times a year because there are so many things to do and places to eat. 

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or don’t have time to plan a trip to Oahu, then learn more about our Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary. The itinerary is structured to grab and go on your mobile device. 

Love this list? Pin it and follow us for more!

Thanks for reading The Hawaii Vacation Guide! I'm the co-founder, with my wife Erica, of the best Hawaii travel guide on the internet in our biased opinions. We enjoy traveling throughout Hawaii after living on Maui and Oahu. We share our adventures, travel tips and resources, and honest reviews so you can easily plan your dream vacation to Hawaii. Editing our videos, teaching the kids how to snorkel, and learning about the 'aina (land) and Hawaii culture are my favorite things to do. Have a wonderful trip to the Aloha State.

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13 Things You Should Know Before Traveling to Honolulu

See recent posts by Neil Gladstone

Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort/Oyster

Things you might know about Honolulu : It’s located on the island of Oahu, it’s the capital of Hawaii, and the Waikiki neighborhood is its epicenter for dining, nightlife, and shopping. Things you might not know: It isn’t cheap and many parts of the destination are touristy. In fact, the standard price for daily supplies and food is about 30 percent higher than in the continental United States. That may not matter if you’re booking an all-inclusive resort, but if you want to make the most out of your time (and dollar) in Honolulu, and get a taste of the local life, here are some tips to keep in mind.

Hotels in this story

1. Expect traffic in paradise.

Road in Oahu/Oyster

Honolulu is the biggest city in Hawaii. Each day, the 350,000 locals are joined by another 70,000 or so tourists, including many who have rental cars. That means the handful of major thoroughfares throughout the city get clogged, particularly during the morning and evening rush hours between 6:30 to 8:30 a.m. and 4 and 6 p.m. If you get stuck in traffic, do not honk. You’ll likely just annoy other drivers, since there are few driving options around Honolulu. 

2. Parking isn’t cheap, so consider the bus.

Most hotels have parking and may even include it with your room rate. However, if you’re planning to zip around town, be prepared to drop a lot of cash on parking garages and valets, since it’s tough to find an available public parking spot. Keep in mind that popular neighborhoods like Waikiki are fairly small and walkable. Honolulu also has a lot of well-maintained municipal and hop-on buses that you can take for short distances. The city bus only costs $2.75 for a ride and $5.50 for a day pass.

3. Not everyone is Hawaiian.

Waikiki Beach, Oahu, Hawaii/Oyster

Native Hawaiians (Kanaka Maoli) are a specific people that descended from Polynesians, who sailed to the island in the fifth century A.D. That said, not all of the folks you’ll meet in Honolulu will be Hawaiian. The 2010 census reported that 38 percent of Hawaii’s residents are Asian, 25 percent are Caucasian, and only about 10 percent are Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander. Tip: Referring to people who live in Hawaii as “locals” is a little more accurate than describing them as “Hawaiians.” 

4. Try a local spa.

You might be temped to pick up the phone and book a spa treatment at the hotel. However, keep in mind that a resort spa package can easily cost $500 or more. If you’re willing to take a short walk from your hotel, Honolulu has many excellent spas to consider. For example, Laka Spa in the Kakaako district of Honolulu offers a two-and-a-half-hour package with reflexology, a scalp massage, a body rub, and a light meal for $235. (A resort might charge you double that price for service of equal quality.) 

5. Consider inland hotels.

Prince Waikiki/Oyster

Waking up and drawing back the hotel room curtain to see an endless blue ocean is an amazing experience that often comes with a hefty price tag. To save some money, opt for a hotel located a short walk from the beach instead. Of course, if this is your once-in-a-lifetime trip to Honolulu (and you have cash to spare), booking a room with a view may be worth it. 

6. Try the amazing donuts.

Malasadas, one of the most popular Hawaiian desserts, is actually Portuguese. These confections consist of a dough made from yeast, eggs, butter, and flour, which is deep-fried and coated with sugar. The locals make it their own by adding tropical fillings such as guava and mango. Leonard’s Bakery is a popular spot to get this delectable treat, but you may also want to check out Kamehameha Bakery.

7. A Hawaiian plate lunch is a must.

Loaded with carbs, the Hawaiian plate lunch is definitely worth trying (or maybe sharing). These starch-and-meat-filled lunches originated in the late 19th century when plantation workers needed an energy-packed meal to get them through the day. As lunch wagons grew in popularity during the first half of the 20th century, the plate lunch became commonplace. Dishes often reflect the island’s Asian immigrant population and local Hawaiian tastes — char siu-style pork, Portuguese sausage, salmon teriyaki, and Spam musubi are often included. Scoops of white rice were long a side dish, and macaroni salad was added some time in the mid-century. You may stroll by plenty of ads for the Hawaiian plate lunch, but some of the best can be found at Rainbow Drive-in, Yama’s Fish Market, and Pongo’s Kitchen.

8. Snorkeling is tougher than you think.

Dalton Reed/Flickr

Honolulu is home to Hawaii’s “ deadliest beach ,” Hanauma Bay. It’s known for being an excellent spot to snorkel, thanks to its calm coastal waters. However, many tourists, particularly older ones, underestimate the strenuousness of snorkeling, assuming it requires just floating rather than actively swimming. As a result, heart attacks and misjudgment cause drownings. Still want to go snorkeling? Understand the risks before you partake in the popular activity (which actually can be a wonderful way to appreciate the local marine life). The rough waves at other beaches can be tough to handle if you’re not an experienced ocean swimmer. Be mindful of warnings signs, especially when heading toward deep waters.

9. Consider coupons.

When walking down the sidewalks of Honolulu, you’ll see kiosks for newspapers and magazines. Many of these publications are packed with coupons. Some are for English-speakers, while others are made for Japanese-speaking tourists. If you’re traveling alone or as a couple on an extravagant weekend, you may find poring over these giveaways tedious. However, if you’re a parent trying to make every dollar count on a family vacation, these coupons can help you save on luaus, dinners, and other big expenses. A passionate bargain-hunter may want to search both the English- and Japanese-language magazines, since some coupons don’t appear in both. The Go Oahu Card can also be a money-saver, if you plan on visiting several of the spots included with it, such as Iolani Palace, the Polynesian Cultural Center, and Sea Life Park Hawaii. 

10. Luaus aren’t always authentic.

Paradise Cove Luau, Oahu/Oyster

Luaus are a lot of fun, particularly for families. Most have activities for kids, overflowing buffets stocked with meaty dishes, and dance routines rarely seen outside of Hawaii. However, many of these shindigs aren’t exactly authentic to Hawaiian culture. If you want a reverent luau, check out the offerings from the Polynesian Cultural Center, where they teach traditional dances, lecture about Maori tattoos, and serve samples of poi (that funky fermented taro root dish). While considering other luaus, keep in mind that some are like theme park interpretations of Polynesian culture.

11. Much of Chinatown closes by 3 p.m.

Hawaii’s immigrant community has built Honolulu’s Chinatown into a bustling center for food from all over Asia. If you’re a cook, you’ll probably find a lot of ingredients here that you don’t see in the rest of America. Plus, the excellent restaurants are not just Chinese, but also offer Thai and Vietnamese cuisines. Keep in mind that many businesses close by 3 p.m., and tourists who visit later may be disappointed by what remains open.

12. Don’t forget — nature doesn’t cost much.

Diamond Head State Park, Oahu/Oyster

The good life in Hawaii can get pricey quickly, but a major reason why people visit is to take in the nature and the national parks. Forty-two out of the 50 beaches in Hawaii are free, and Diamond Head State Park — home to one of the most beautiful hikes in the state — charges $13 for adults and $6 for kids over six. Plus, it’s only a 20-minute drive from downtown Honolulu.

13. Don’t miss the free fireworks.

Every Friday, the Hilton Hawaiian Village shoots off a free fireworks display at 7:45 p.m., and they’re free to the public. The show only lasts about 10 minutes, but it can be a fun reason to walk around Waikiki. 

Don’t Forget to Pack These Hawaii Vacation Essentials:

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You’ll Also Like:

• Where to Go in Hawaii: A Cheat Sheet to the Top Destinations
• The 8 Best Cheap Hotels in Honolulu
• Oahu vs. Maui: Which Hawaiian Island Should You Choose?
• The Best Beaches in Hawaii for Each Type of Traveler

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Oahu Travel Planner & Visitor Guides

Choose between our oahu introduction guide and our more detailed oahu essential guide.

2024 Oahu Travel Guides

When to visit... weather, and more..., visitor guides to the gathering place, one remarkable experience.

Don't miss out on our inside Oahu knowledge, tips, and recommendations . 

We've included a lot of pertinent information for Oahu that should help you plan the perfect trip! Our two Oahu guides are updated twice a year (or more) to ensure they're entirely up to date with the latest Oahu details and information. Below, we'll review in more detail what our updated Oahu Travel planner includes...

— article continued below —

These new Oahu guides contain nearly  25 visual pages   (in the Introduction guide) and   almost 45 visual pages   (in the Essential guide)  of pertinent Hawaii travel information  to assist in planning your perfect Hawaii trip. There's lots of good Oahu information + maps, weather charts, hotel pricing graphics, and more - ideal for those who are just getting started planning their trip to Oahu.

There are also  NO advertisements  or paid product placements within these planners.

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Where to Stay on Oahu Guide

Oahu is a destination that attracts a unique mix of tourists from all over the world. There are  resorts and hotels  all over the island, but there are also many free-standing hotels and vacation rentals, which allow you to choose from a wide range of accommodations. We provide a  list of these top favorable destinations  according to popularity.

Our  Where to Stay guide  will highlight the  best places to stay on Oahu  and the best parts of Oahu, especially Waikiki. Oahu offers several favorable areas for different types of vacationers.

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Details on Oahu's Weather & Climate plus When to Visit

Know what you're likely to experience weather-wise on your trip by reading through our Hawaii Weather summary. Our weather information additionally includes a rainfall map , a precipitation chart (for each month of the year), and a high/low-temperature graph/chart so you can plan accordingly for your trip.

Wondering what the hotel prices will be during the weeks of your visit? Look no further; we've got you covered with our Oahu Hotel Price averages graphic that provides insight into what pricing you can expect at different times throughout the year.

We've also covered the Best Time to Visit , including a graph showing the monthly visitor statistics for the island.

Oahu Intro Guide

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BEST TIME to... Oahu FAQ

When is the best time for good weather? How about when to avoid crowds? Or when exactly is the best time to book your trip to Oahu? We've covered each of these questions and several others in our Best Time to.... Oahu FAQ .

Discover which time of the year is the best time to visit for local festivals and events  or when hiking conditions are prime for hitting Oahu's incredible plethora of trails. We've also covered when to go whale watching , take a Hawaii cruise , and much more.

Detailed Overview of Oahu's Regions

Learn more about each of the regions on Oahu in our detailed region section.

This section covers the basic geography of the island, the top attractions within each region, along with tips on the best nearby attractions.

Oahu Highlights Guide

Top Local Grindz - Best Eats

Sun, sand, and surf are not all Hawaii is known for. Sure, we travel to islands for a relaxing time that will incorporate all these things, but you  gotta eat too , right? Hawaii certainly doesn’t let us down on that issue. Hawaii, and Oahu more specifically, offers some of the  best culinary experiences  in the world.

In this section, we cover some of our  favorite places for authentic Hawaii food , the best 'ono grindz (delicious food) that can be found on the island.

Oahu Road & Beach Maps + more

Our travel guides wouldn't be complete without detailed  Oahu Road Maps . For this updated planner, we've added a bonus road map for each area of significance on the island.

We've additionally included Beach Maps , so you can quickly and easily determine which beaches are best to visit during your trip, not to mention which are closest to your Oahu resort or hotel.

For our  Oahu Essentials Guide , we've included several bonus  regional maps  to help provide more insight into Oahu's most popular areas.

Discover Oahu's Top Attractions

We've covered the  top attractions on Oahu in detail, including how to visit them and where each attraction is located on the island.

Photos and details are provided for each top attraction, so you can quickly decide which sights , beaches , and/or hiking trails are best for you during your visit.

Select a Oahu Travel Guide

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10 Essential Oahu Travel Tips You Must Know

Are you planning your first trip to hawaii and want some helpful hawaii travel tips keep scrolling to find out the oahu travel tips that no one tells you before planning a trip to oahu , this post about oahu travel tips was written by hawaii travel expert marcie cheung and contains affiliate links, which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

If you’re looking for Oahu travel tips, you’ve come to the right place. I know exactly what to give you.

Almost weekly, I get asked how to plan a trip to Hawaii . That’s because I’ve visited the Hawaiian islands more than 40 times and usually know where to find the best Hawaii vacation deals.

If you want to plan a vacation to Hawaii, the hardest thing can be choosing the best Hawaiian island for your family.

While each island is pretty spectacular, it’s really hard to beat an Oahu family vacation.

That’s because there’s so much to do on Oahu with kids of all ages. I’ve got many Oahu tips for families looking for easy Oahu vacation ideas and detailed plans.

We’ve taken our kids to Oahu several times since they were babies, and we’ve figured out a lot of Oahu travel tips and tricks that we wish we would have known before each vacation.

Whether you are planning a Hawaiian vacation for the first time or it’s just your first trip to Oahu, you need to read this first!

Keep scrolling for my top travel tips for Oahu that will help you plan a Hawaii vacation that rocks!

Find out the best 101 Things to do in Oahu with Kids !

Don’t have time to read a bunch of Hawaii blog posts and reviews? Here are some of our top picks for visiting Oahu.

Popular Oahu Tours/Activities

• Kualoa Ranch UTV Tour (this is a fun adventure with the prettiest views)
• Full Pearl Harbor Tour (this is the BEST way to do everything at Pearl Harbor)
• Hawaii Bucket List Tour (you get to pick where you stop on this custom Oahu Circle Island tour)
• Toa Luau (this is my all-time favorite Oahu luau)
• CLIMB Works Ziplining (this is the longest zipline on Oahu)
• Book a Photo Shoot (this is a Hawaii souvenir you’ll treasure forever)

Favorite Oahu Resorts/Hotels

• Hilton Hawaiian Village (this is our favorite Waikiki resort because of the amazing pool area and nearby restaurants)
• Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa (this is a splurge that is totally worth it)
• Royal Hawaiian Hotel (this is a luxury resort in Waikiki that is pink and gorgeous)

Want to Rent a Car in Hawaii? One of the best places to rent a car in Hawaii is Discount Hawaii Car Rental because they get the best rates from top national companies like Alamo, Dollar, Thrifty, Avis, Enterprise, Budget, and Payless.

Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Oahu Itinerary complete with daily schedules, kid-friendly activities, and travel hacks? Click the button below.

Click here for step-by-step Oahu travel planning help

Oahu Travel Tips to Know Before You Start Oahu Vacation Planning

1. best oahu vacation packages are at costco.

Before you book anything for your vacation to Oahu, make sure to shop around for the best Oahu deals.

While the cheapest time to visit Oahu is during shoulder season (mid-April to June in the Spring and September to mid-December in the Fall), that can be difficult for most families with school-age kids.

We’ve found some awesome Costco Oahu vacation packages , including free car rentals and other perks.

We like to check Costco Travel first to see what hotels and condos are partnered with and then price check on our own to see which is cheaper.

There are affordable Oahu honeymoon packages and great deals on Oahu family resorts when you bundle them with airfare.

Read more tips on what to avoid doing in Oahu and other genius tips to travel on a budget.

2. You Don’t Need a Car in Waikiki

If you are staying in Waikiki and have no interest in driving around to explore Oahu, you definitely don’t need a car.

Just about every major Oahu attraction offers a shuttle service from Waikiki. Tons of day tours and luaus also have a Waikiki shuttle service.

The biggest advantage of not renting a car in Waikiki is that you will save SO much money on parking. It’s insanely expensive to park in Waikiki, whether it’s overnight at your hotel or in a lot.

But if you want to rent a car for a few days of your trip, you can easily get a rental car in Waikiki.

We have rented cars in Waikiki just for the day to get out and explore a few Oahu day trips, and then we return them for the night to save money on overnight parking fees.

3. First Timers Like to Stay in Waikiki

If this is your first trip to Honolulu, you’ll probably want to spend part (if not all) of your trip staying in Waikiki.

There’s a reason it’s such an iconic destination. From the array of beachfront restaurants, amazing shopping, and attractions, there’s really something for everyone.

It’s also where you’ll find most of Oahu’s hotels and resorts at all price points.

Because traffic and parking in Waikiki can be a pain, staying there is much easier. That way, you can walk or hop on the trolley to go just about everywhere.

After you’ve been to Oahu once or twice, you might consider staying in another part of the island for a different experience.

But until then, you’ll probably want to focus on a Waikiki vacation.

Book a Family Photo Shoot

Whenever we travel to Hawaii, we almost always book a family photo shoot with Flytographer. They are super easy, affordable, AND it guarantees that I’ll be in some photos. You can get $25 off if you book through this link or use the code HAWAIITRAVEL.

4. Pearl Harbor is FREE

So, once you start looking into things to do on Oahu , you’ll start seeing lots of Pearl Harbor tours. Many of them are pricey.

The thing is, it’s actually completely free to visit Pearl Harbor (and parking is even free). But, it takes planning.

You can reserve free tickets online or show up right when they open to snag one of the free tickets they allot each day.

The free tickets cover only the USS Arizona Memorial and the museum.

If you want to tour the U.S.S. Missouri, explore the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum , or hop on the U.S.S. Bowfin submarine, you’ll need to pay for tickets or a tour.

It’s easy to get to Pearl Harbor from Waikiki . If you don’t rent a car on Oahu, you might want to join a tour that includes transportation. Or, you can always take an Uber or shuttle.

Pearl Harbor is definitely one of the best cheap things to do on Oahu !

5. You’ll Need a Full Day at the Polynesian Cultural Center

One of my biggest pet peeves is when people ask whether or not they really need a full day at the Polynesian Cultural Center . YES, you will.

It’s located in Laie, which is at least an hour’s drive from Waikiki. PCC opens at 11:45 am, meaning you’d need to leave Waikiki in the morning if you want time to stop and eat breakfast on the way.

Once you’re there, you’ll discover that there are SO many presentations and activities, and you honestly won’t be able to do or see everything on the schedule.

They feature 7 Polynesian villages, a canoe pageant, canoe tours, a luau, and the Ha: Breath of Life show . Check out the latest prices and more details.

If you plan on staying for their luau and the Ha: Breath of Life show (which I HIGHLY recommend), you’ll be at PCC until about 9 p.m. That’s a long day.

So, seriously, think twice about trying to do an activity in the early morning, or you’ll be pretty wiped out. You can read my full Polynesian Cultural Center review HERE .

6. Surfing Competitions Are During Winter

Since Hawaii is known as a premier surfing destination, many visitors are eager to watch professional surfers.

If you watch movies set in Hawaii, it can seem like there’s always a local surfing competition going on.

That’s not really the case.

If you want to see a Hawaii surfing competition, like Vans Triple Crown of Surfing or Billabong Pipe Masters , you’ll want to visit Oahu in winter.

This is when the waves are massive on Oahu’s North Shore, like in Hanauma Bay, making it the ultimate spot for surf competitions in Hawaii.

And if you do go, you’ll want to pack your own food, drinks, and shade.

Learn more about North Shore Oahu surfing !

7. North Shore is Really Far from Waikiki

Many people have a romantic notion of staying in a beachfront cottage at the North Shore for a more “authentic” Hawaii experience.

It definitely has a small-town vibe and is a much different trip than staying in Waikiki.

What people don’t realize, though, is that it is SUPER far away. It can take up to 2 hours to get to Waikiki/Honolulu from the North Shore during rush hour.

I always get nervous when people tell me they are going to spend the morning at Pearl Harbor, the afternoon at North Shore, and then head back to Waikiki for dinner. It’s just not realistic.

If you are doing a day trip up to the North Shore , really do plan on that being the only thing you do all day. Book your luau up there instead of trying to return to downtown Honolulu in time.

And I highly recommend downloading the Oahu Shaka App before you go. It’s a GPS-oriented audio tour guide that tells you about the places on Oahu you are driving past. It’s affordable and definitely one of the best Hawaii travel apps .

8. Disney Aulani is Pretty Isolated

If you are as big of a Disney fan as my family, I’m sure Disney Aulani has been on your bucket list for a while.

It’s one of our FAVORITE places to stay on Oahu with kids. From the awesome programs to the character meals to the pool area, Aulani is a slice of heaven.

But, if you’ve never been to Oahu, you’ll be shocked at how far away it is from everything else.

It’s located in Ko Olina, which basically just has a handful of hotels and restaurants. And there’s barely anything within walking distance.

You’ll want to rent a car to explore Oahu or just hit up the grocery store (the closest is 15 minutes away.)

Or, you’ll want to just stay at the resort and plan on eating all your meals at their two on-site restaurants (or Monkeypod Kitchen across the street.)

Aulani isn’t a convenient place to stay if you plan to do a bunch of activities across Oahu.

9. There are TONS of Oahu Luaus (and they aren’t all equal)

One of the Oahu travel tips I give to make your vacation memorable is going to a luau and making it a part of their Oahu itinerary . However, not all luaus on Oahu are the same.

Sure, there are a bunch of Oahu luaus that ply tourists with watered-down mai tais, recite corny jokes, and try to upsell you at every turn. But there are some really cool ones too!

The Polynesian Cultural Center is a popular choice. It’s a full-day experience with hands-on activities and a luau. But they have the Ha: Breath of Life show after the luau, which is incredible! Find the best prices here.

Toa Luau is my favorite North Shore luau because it’s small and they incorporate a lot of Samoan food and traditions. Plus, it’s super kid-friendly. Find the best prices here or read my full Toa Luau review .

We also really like Experience Nutridge , which is an intimate luau event near Waikiki.

Get my breakdown of the best Oahu luaus !

10. Everything is Filmed at Kualoa Ranch

Wondering where they filmed Lost ? It was Kualoa Ranch .

Want to explore Jurassic Park ? Yep, Kualoa Ranch.

50 First Dates ? Kualoa Ranch. See a pattern?

If you want to see Oahu movies and TV filming locations, Kualoa Ranch is a HUGE one. Over the decades, over 80 movies and TV shows have been filmed here.

In fact, it’s also featured a ton in the new Netflix film Finding ‘Ohana .

Of course, the best way to see these sites is by booking a Kualoa Ranch movie tour .

They also offer a plethora of other experiences, including a Jurassic Park ATV tour , ziplining over the Jurassic Valley , horseback riding where they filmed Pearl Harbor , a jungle expedition , and more!

And there you have it! My top Oahu tips for newcomers who want to plan a trip to Oahu like a pro!

How to Plan a Trip to Oahu FAQ

The price really varies depending on where you stay, whether you are renting a car, the types of activities you are booking, and the length of your Oahu trip. It typically costs around $2,000 for one week with two people. Make sure to factor in tipping in Hawaii to your total cost.

If Oahu is the only island you visit, you’ll want to spend 7-10 days . If you are island hopping, you’ll want at least 5 days on Oahu to do all the attractions and explore the island.

The most popular place to stay in Oahu is in Waikiki. That’s where you’ll find the majority of hotels and resorts. Turtle Bay up on the North Shore is popular for people who want to get away from crowds. Ko Olina is the newest area attracting resorts like Disney Aulani.

For the best Oahu travel deals, aim to book your Oahu Hawaii vacation during the off-season. This is mid-April to June in the spring and September to mid- December in the fall. This is also when the weather is pretty mild, and it’s less crowded.

Looking for more Hawaii trip planning tips ? Find out how to rent a car in Hawaii, 50 places to visit in Hawaii , fun facts about Oahu , where to stay on Oahu , best Hawaii travel apps , and 105 ways to save money in Hawaii !

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How to Plan a Trip to Oahu

Oahu, affectionately referred to as the ‘Heart of Hawaii’, is a vibrant blend of natural beauty, adventure, and rich cultural heritage. If three words were to capture the essence of Oahu, they would be: enchanting, dynamic, and historic. This island paradise is a tropical tapestry of lush rainforests, ethereal waterfalls, and pristine beaches that are a surfer’s dream. Yet, Oahu’s charm extends far beyond its natural allure. The island pulses with a dynamic urban scene, a buzzing nightlife, and a mosaic of cuisines that will make foodies swoon. Delve a bit deeper, and Oahu reveals its historical side, with sites chronicling everything from ancient Hawaiian history to Pearl Harbor . Brimming with wonder and excitement, Oahu invites you to immerse yourself in its unique island magic.

Geography & Climate

Embracing a tropical climate, Oahu treats you to warm weather throughout the year, with average temperatures hovering between 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. While the winter months from November to April can bring some rain and slightly cooler weather, it’s typically followed by stunning rainbows—a sweet treat from Mother Nature herself! So, whether you’re lazing on the glistening beaches or exploring the verdant hiking trails, Oahu’s geography and climate is a slice of paradise waiting to be discovered!

Culture & People

Oahu’s culture is a lively meander through the island’s rich history, its warm-hearted people, and their unwavering love for the land and each other. Here, you’ll find a blend of both ancient and modern Hawaii. You’ll hear the strumming of the ukulele, see graceful hula dancers, and witness the cultural importance of surfing to the locals. The ‘Aloha Spirit’ isn’t just a saying, it’s a way of life here, one that respects and honors the land (or ‘aina) and one another. Get ready to indulge in the island’s diverse food scene, deeply rooted in the fusion of different cultures that call Oahu home. Don your lei, get ready for a luau, and let’s dive into the vibrant culture that awaits you!

How to Plan Your Oahu Trip

Booking flight tickets: Best deals and recommended airlines

To make the most of your Oahu adventure, planning your flight is key. With plenty of airlines flying to this tropical paradise, you have numerous options to consider. Major airlines such as Hawaiian Airlines, American Airlines, Delta, and United offer regular flights to Oahu.

Hawaiian Airlines, being the largest airline in Hawaii, offers the most comprehensive schedule, so you’re likely to find a flight that suits your timing perfectly. For budget-conscious travelers, airlines like Southwest and JetBlue often have impressive deals. The best time to book a flight to Oahu is typically during the shoulder seasons — spring (April to mid-June) and fall (September to mid-December). Airfare during these periods can be significantly cheaper than during the peak tourist seasons of summer and winter.

Before booking, always compare prices with online travel agencies. They provide a great overview of different airlines and prices, allowing you to snag the best deal. But remember, once you find a good deal, check the airline’s direct website. Sometimes, they offer even better rates or additional perks for booking directly. Signing up for fare alerts can also help you get the best deals. Websites let you set up price alerts for your desired destination and will notify you when fares drop.

Preparing Your Budget

When planning your trip to Oahu, a key factor you’ll need to consider is your budget. Oahu, like any other tourist destination, can be as expensive or as budget-friendly as you make it, but having a clear idea of the potential costs can help you plan better.

The average daily cost for a trip to Oahu is around $60 per person for meals and $40 for local transportation. Consider additional costs such as accommodation, which can range from $60 to $1000 per night depending on your preference for luxury or budget hotels.

For activities, budget around $60 to $350 per person per day if you plan to explore attractions.

Don’t forget to account for incidental costs like shopping, tips and additional expenses that may crop up. It’s always a good idea to add a buffer of around 10-15% to your budget to manage any unexpected costs. By doing some research and setting a realistic budget, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable Oahu vacation.

Learn More: How Much does a Trip to Oahu Cost?

Best Time to Visit 

Weather and Climate Considerations

he weather in Oahu is nothing short of delightful, embodying the island’s tropical charm. With a year-round warm climate, Oahu is a year-round destination. There are two main seasons: the “Kau” (summer) from May to October and the “Hooilo” (winter) from November to April. Even during winter, the weather is relatively mild and pleasantly warm. Rainfall is a bit higher during the winter months and mostly occurs overnight. You’ll also want to keep in mind that different parts of the island can have different weather patterns, with the Windward (east) side receiving more rainfall than the Leeward (west) side. Be prepared for the occasional downpour and remember, it’s all part of the tropical experience!

Peak Tourist Seasons vs Off-peak

When it comes to visiting Oahu, understanding the difference between peak tourist seasons and off-peak times can significantly influence your travel experience. Peak tourist seasons in Oahu are during the summer months June to August) and winter holidays (mid-December to early January), when the island’s warm weather provides a great getaway from colder climates. However, these times are often crowded, and prices for flights and accommodations tend to be higher.

On the other hand, the off-peak seasons—spring (April to early June) and fall (September to mid-December)—offer a more relaxed atmosphere, with fewer tourists and often lower prices. While the weather can be slightly more unpredictable, with occasional rain showers, these periods still offer plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures. The choice ultimately depends on your preferences for crowd size, cost, and weather.

Learn More: Travel to Hawaii in the Off-Season

Accommodations in Oahu

Where to Stay

Choosing the right area to stay in Oahu can truly make or break your Hawaiian adventure! If you’re a beach bum at heart or a night owl who loves the hustle and bustle, Waikiki, with its world-famous beach and buzzing nightlife, is your go-to spot. On the other hand, if you’re seeking serenity away from the crowds, North Shore offers a peaceful trip back in time with its laid-back charm and world-class surf spots. For history buffs, staying in Pearl Harbor provides easy access to the USS Arizona Memorial and the Pearl Harbor National Monument. Be sure to choose a location that matches your vacation vibe!

Hotel Recommendations for Different Budgets

Whether you’re a budget-conscious traveler or someone ready to splurge for an unforgettable tropical getaway, Oahu has a wide range of accommodations to suit every pocket.

Budget-Friendly

• Polynesian Hostel Beach Club: This vibrant hostel offers the most affordable and comfortable stay, perfect for backpackers and solo travelers.
• Ewa Hotel Waikiki : A budget hotel, located a stone’s throw away from Waikiki Beach.
• Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach : Located in the heart of Waikiki, this resort offers comfortable rooms and stunning views without breaking the bank.
• Hyatt Place Waikiki Beach : Enjoy a spacious room and amenities like a pool and 24/7 dining, all for a reasonable price.
• The Royal Hawaiian : Known as the “Pink Palace of the Pacific,” this iconic luxury resort promises an unforgettable stay.
• Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina : This five-star resort offers world-class service, stunning rooms, and access to some of Oahu’s best golf courses and fine dining.

Eating and Dining in Oahu

When in Oahu, prepare for a culinary adventure! The island offers a multitude of dining options that cater to all palates and budgets. For the foodies out there, you’re in for a treat! The island’s culinary scene is a melting pot of cultures, combining Hawaiian, Asian, and American influences.

If you’re looking for an upscale dining experience, head to Waikiki which houses some of the finest restaurants on the island. Here, you can indulge in exquisitely prepared dishes while enjoying breathtaking views of the ocean. For a more casual and rugged taste of local fare, visit the numerous food trucks scattered around the island, especially on the North Shore. They serve everything from fresh seafood, grilled meats to a variety of fusion cuisine.

Don’t forget to visit a luau for a traditional Hawaiian feast served alongside a vibrant performance of Polynesian music and hula dancing. Eating in Oahu is not just about filling your stomach, it’s about immersing yourself in the island’s rich cultural heritage and traditions. So, dig in and bon appétit!

Local Delicacies to Try

Tasting the local cuisine of a region is like a journey into the heart of its culture, and Oahu is no different. Here are a few local delicacies you should not miss:

• Poke: A traditional Hawaiian dish made with raw, diced, and marinated fish, usually Ahi Tuna. It’s a beloved local favorite.
• Spam Musubi: This sushi-style treat is a popular snack and consists of a slice of grilled Spam on top of a block of rice, wrapped together with nori.
• Shave Ice: A classic Hawaiian dessert, it’s a mountain of finely shaved ice drenched in sweet fruit syrups. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream at the bottom for an extra special treat.
• Loco Moco: A hearty local dish that consists of rice topped with a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and brown gravy.
• Malasada: These Portuguese doughnuts, brought to the islands by immigrants, are fluffy, sugar-coated, and often filled with tropical custards.

Give these dishes a go to truly experience the flavors of Oahu!

Must-Visit Attractions

A trip to Oahu is incomplete without a visit to its iconic Pearl Harbor, where you can pay homage to the lives lost during the tragic event that propelled the U.S. into World War II. Be sure to also visit the historic Iolani Palace , the only royal palace in the U.S., to get a glimpse of Hawaii’s royal past.

Next on your list should be Waikiki Beach , the world-famous hotspot known for its golden sand, crystal-clear waters, and lush palm trees. Waikiki is not just a beach but a hub of activities, shopping, dining, and nightlife.

Nature enthusiasts must not miss out on hiking the Diamond Head State Monument , a dormant volcano offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Honolulu. Lastly, step into the surfer’s paradise at North Shore , famous for its massive waves and being the home to international surfing competitions. Whether you’re a surfer or not, the breathtaking beauty of North Shore is a sight to behold!

Outdoor Activities to Try

Time to get your adventure hat on! Unleash your inner thrill-seeker with Oahu’s diverse range of outdoor activities. Ready to ride the waves? Trade your flip-flops for a surfboard and get ready to surf the North Shore , world-renowned for its magnificent swells. If you’re more of a landlubber, lace up your hiking boots and conquer the Diamond Head trail. It’s a bit of a climb, but the panoramic views at the summit are worth every step.

For underwater enthusiasts, snorkeling in the crystal clear waters of Hanauma Bay offers an unforgettable glimpse into Hawaii’s vibrant marine life. Don’t forget to say Aloha to the charming Hawaiian green sea turtles ! Whatever your adventure level, Oahu has an outdoor activity that will leave you with fun-filled memories and incredible stories to tell.

How Long Should You Stay

Wave goodbye to those quick weekend getaways and ride the waves of a real vacation! On Oahu, there’s such a wealth of sun-soaked beaches, tropical adventures, and vibrant culture, that a week would be your absolute minimum to start soaking it all up. For the full island experience – and trust us, you don’t want to miss a thing – we recommend planning a stay of at least 10 to 14 days. This gives you ample time to explore the bustling city life of Honolulu, embark on breathtaking hikes, bask in the sun on the North Shore, and still have plenty of time for those precious moments of doing absolutely nothing but enjoying the island vibes!

What to Pack Based on the Time of Year

When planning your packing list for Oahu, it’s essential to take into account the time of year.

• Spring and Summer (March through August): During these months, Oahu enjoys warm weather and lots of sunshine. Pack light, breathable clothing, swimwear, a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, and a pair of sunglasses. Don’t forget your flip-flops for the beach and comfortable shoes for exploring and hiking.
• Fall and Winter (September through February): While Oahu’s winters are mild, the evenings can get a bit cooler and there can be some rain. In addition to your summer clothing, pack a light sweater or jacket, a rain jacket, and waterproof shoes. If you’re planning on hiking, consider moisture-wicking clothes and a pair of sturdy hiking boots.

Regardless of when you visit, a reusable water bottle and a backpack for day trips are must-haves. Also, remember to leave space in your suitcase for all the wonderful souvenirs you’ll find! Happy packing!

Getting Around Oahu

Public Transportation

Public transportation in Oahu is managed by TheBus, an extensive system that reaches most parts of the island. It’s an affordable and eco-friendly choice but may require some strategizing to match bus schedules with your itinerary.

Car, Bike, and Scooter Rentals

Renting a car offers greater flexibility and convenience, allowing you to explore the island at your own pace. However, it’s worth noting that parking can sometimes be challenging, especially in busy areas like Waikiki, and the cost of gas and rental fees can add up. Ultimately, the choice depends on your personal preferences, budget, and comfort with driving in a new environment.

If you’re looking for a breezy, fun way to explore Oahu, renting a bike or scooter is your ticket to adventure! With the wind in your hair and the island’s beauty surrounding you, it’s an unforgettable experience. For shorter distances, bikes are perfect. They offer a slow-paced ride allowing you to immerse fully in the island’s scenic beauty. Scooters, on the other hand, are great for longer distances. They give you the freedom to zip around different sights without spending too much time or energy. Remember to always wear a helmet and follow local traffic laws. Now, get ready to pedal (or scoot) your way to an epic Oahu adventure!

Taking a Tour

How about immersing yourself in the vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes of Oahu with a guided tour? Yep, that’s right! Tours are a fantastic way to see the island’s key highlights without the stress of planning everything yourself. Experience the cinematic landscapes of the Kualoa Ranch , feel the solemn history of Pearl Harbor , or perhaps, if you’re feeling adventurous, tour the rugged terrain of Diamond Head by hiking to its peak. Not only will you have a fun-filled day, but you’ll also learn about the island’s rich history and unique ecosystem from knowledgeable local guides. Remember, there’s an Oahu tour for every kind of traveler!

Exploring Oahu on Foot

The island is simply teeming with scenic walking trails, cozy neighborhood sidewalks, and bustling city streets that invite you to explore at your own pace. From the tranquil paths of Waimea Valley to the vibrant thrum of Honolulu’s downtown, there’s no shortage of sights to see. Feel the grainy sand between your toes as you stroll along the iconic Waikiki Beach, or wander through the aromatic stalls of Chinatown ‘s open-air markets. Step back into history with in the serene beauty of the Byodo-In Temple . On foot, you’ll experience the pulse of the island, the warmth of its people, and the beating heart of its Aloha spirit. Remember to pack comfortable shoes, stay hydrated, and be ready to surrender to the island’s magic.

Using Ride-sharing Apps

Surf’s up, but not sure how to get to the beach. No worries. Oahu is well-served by various ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft, making it super easy to zip around the island without breaking a sweat. It’s as simple as downloading the app, entering your location and your destination, and voila! You’re off to soak up the sun, explore the alluring landscapes, or head downtown for some shopping and shave ice. Remember, peak times may lead to surge pricing, so plan your rides accordingly.

General Travel Tips

• Check Your Travel Documents: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date. Don’t forget to check if you need any visas to enter Hawaii.
• Pack Smart: Traveling light can make your journey smoother. Use packing cubes to organize your clothes, carry travel-size toiletries, and remember the TSA’s 3-1-1 rule for liquids in your carry-on.
• Stay Hydrated: Oahu can get quite hot, especially during summer days. Ensure you carry bottled water with you at all times to stay hydrated. Many areas offer refill stations, so think about the environment and bring a reusable bottle with you. Plus, it’s a small step towards sustainable travel.
• Take Lots of Photos But Also Live in the Moment: Document your memories but remember to also take time to soak in the beauty around you Take the Road Less Traveled. Venture off the beaten path and explore the lesser-known treasures of Oahu for a truly unique experience. Oahu is full of natural wonders that deserve your undivided attention; don’t just experience them through your camera lens!
• Embrace the Aloha Spirit: Remember, you’re in the land of Aloha! Be respectful to the locals, their culture, and their environment. Treat everyone you meet with kindness and respect- it’s the Hawaiian way!

The Islands are Waiting to Share Their Secrets!

You are just a hula dance away! Take some time to simply breathe in the salt air, listen to the gentle rustle of palm trees, and let the island’s tranquil rhythms seep into your soul. As the sun sets on your Oahu adventure, don’t forget to commemorate your trip with a traditional lei, a symbol of the Aloha spirit that you’ve embraced throughout your stay. Mahalo for joining us on this journey, and we hope your trip is filled with Aloha spirit, unforgettable sunsets, and the warmest of memories. Happy traveling!

A writer whose words flow where the mountains meet the sea.

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Oahu Hawaii Travel Guide / Everything You Need To Know

Oahu Hawaii is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the world, and if you get to visit this island paradise you’ll quickly see why. The third largest Hawaiian island is home to over 125 beaches, many hikes, natural beauty galore, the bustling city life of Honolulu, and famous world-class surf.

From waterfalls, beaches, and waves, to nightlife, crafty eats, and shopping, there’s no shortage of things to do in Oahu. Treat yourself to the spectacle of a surf competition on the North Shore, go whale watching, skydiving, snorkeling, swimming in crystal-clear waters, or simply chillax and sip a Mai Tai on one of the many picture-perfect beaches.

In our guide to Oahu Hawaii, we give you the lowdown on everything you need to know for an awesome trip to this stunning island. An overview of the regions, weather, when to go, travel costs, Oahu surf , transportation, where to stay, and more.

Table of Contents

The Areas of Oahu

Oahu Hawaii Travel Basics

Best Time to Visit Oahu

Travel Costs

Surfing in Oahu

Where to Stay

Things to Do in Oahu

Eat & Drink

Transportation

Oahu Travel Resources

Oahu hawaii travel guide, the areas of oahu.

Honolulu  is lined with sandy Hawaiian beaches and turquoise waters but make no mistake, the city is a buzzing urban metropolis. As the largest city in Hawaii and the state capital, Honolulu is a vibrant tropical city with everything from historical landmarks to fine dining to designer shopping.

The city is home to the tourist-dense Waikiki, but there are also some hip neighborhoods where you can escape the tourist hustle and find local crafty food, drinks, and shops. Check out Chinatown and Kakaʻako for a more local vibe. And check out our blog: Honolulu, Hawaii : A Day in The Aloha State’s Big City .

Waikiki is a busy tourist mecca where you’ll find the majority of Oahu’s resorts. Waikiki is to Hawaii as The Strip is to Las Vegas. It’s loud, busy, and very touristy. If you’re looking for large luxury resorts, restaurants galore, shopping, and nightlife, Waikiki has it all.

That being said, if you’re into nature, beaches, and having a lowkey trip, we recommend staying elsewhere on the island where you have easier access to the beautiful beaches, hikes, and chill lifestyle that Oahu has to offer.

The North Shore

The laidback  North Shore attracts surfers from around the globe with its 7-mile stretch of world-class surf breaks and Hawaiian country vibes. Famously known as The Seven Mile Miracle,  the North Shore is legendary in the world of surfing and hosts some of the most impressive  surf competitions in the world.

During the summer months when the surf subsides, the area is great for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing on the North Shore’s pristine beaches. Haleiwa is a charming little walkable surf town on the North Shore with local boutiques, surf shops, and restaurants. Check out our g uide to North Shore, Oahu for our recommendations on where to eat, stay, and play.

The Windward Coast

The Windward Coast  on the east side of the island is home to beautiful lush scenery, serene beaches, and Kailua, Hawaii’s biggest beach town. With its many beaches and bays, the scenic 30-mile Windward Coast offers up some of the most stunning natural beauty in Hawaii.

The Leeward Coast

The Leeward Coast on Oahu’s westside is a sunny and dry region without much major tourism past the Ko Olina resort area (which is home to the luxurious Four Seasons Oahu and  Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa ). Just 30 miles from Waikiki, the region has opposite features on offer, with small local towns, beautiful off-the-beaten-path beaches and rural landscapes to explore.

OAHU HAWAII TRAVEL BASICS

Oahu has a year-round warm tropical climate that’s pretty darn close to perfection (in our humble opinion). Oahu’s average high temperature ranges from the low to high 80s Fahrenheit (around 27 – 31° C) with an average humidity at around 64%. The coolest months – at a lovely 81 F (27° C) – are January and February. The hottest months are July, August, and September with an average of 88 F (31° C). At nighttime, the temp is usually about 10°F cooler.

Hawaii technically has only two seasons, both of them warm and tropical. The summer (Apr-Oct) is the dry season, and the winter (Nov-Mar) brings the rainy season. It can rain any time of year, but the winter months are considerably wetter and windier.

In some areas of the Hawaiian Islands, it can rain frequently during the winter months, but usually no longer than three days straight in one particular spot. Despite the rain, the high tourist season actually falls during Hawaii’s winter months and the low season during parts of the summer.

Hawaii is full of microclimates which means the climate and temperature can range drastically depending on where you are on the island. Each island in Hawaii has a “leeward side” (the side sheltered from the wind) and a “windward side” (the side that gets the wind’s full force).

The leeward sides (the west and south) are typically dryer and more arid, while the windward sides (east and north) are generally lusher because they get more rain. If it’s raining on the windward side, a good plan is to search for sunshine on the leeward side.

Tipping in the US

If you’re from the US, move right along, but if you’re not from the US you probably have a very different tip system so we’ll break down a few basics for you. Unlike other countries, the minimum wage for “tipped employees” in the US can be incredibly low (as low as $2.13 an hour), so they make the vast majority of their income from tips. Also unlike in most of the rest of the world, the total cost of table service is almost never included in the bill, leaving it up to you to do the right thing and leave a decent tip on your own accord.

There are a couple of situations where gratuity is already added to the bill—typically when you have a table of six or more guests, and some restaurants in highly touristed areas have started to add gratuity to the bill due to being stiffed by (ahem) travelers who might not know the tipping system. Usually, a good server will let you know if the tip is already on the bill, but you can also check yourself, as your bill will say “Gratuity” or “Service Charge” with an amount next to it. If an amount is included as a “Gratuity” or “Service Charge,” additional tipping is not required.

At all sit-down restaurants with table service, the norm is to tip 15 – 25% of the total bill. That being said, if you had good service, tip at least 20%. You’re not expected to tip at fast food restaurants or when you order at a counter (like at a coffee shop), but most coffee shops will have a little tip jar and it’s nice to give a little something.

At bars, depending on the situation, it’s customary to tip $1 per drink, or 15 – 20% of the total bill. For taxis, tip 10-15%. For valet parking, $2 – $5. And for a spa treatment or hairdresser, 10 – 20%. Check out this detailed guide or  this article for more detailed information about tipping.

Staying Connected

Always double check, but pretty much every hotel, vacation rental, and hostel will have free wifi included in your accommodation. Many coffee shops and public places will also have free wifi available. If you have a phone plan with a major carrier in the US, you should be able to use it just like back home.

If you don’t have a US mobile plan, you can pick up a pre-paid SIM card for your trip, as long as your phone is “unlocked,” meaning that it’s not tied to a certain carrier’s network and can work with more than one service provider. T-Mobile offers a tourist plan that includes 3 weeks of talk, text, and data for $30. There are multiple T-Mobile locations in Oahu. If you’re in Waikiki, the closest T-Mobile store is located at the large shopping mall, The Ala Moana Center .

Good To Know

If you’re traveling with a surfboard bag from the United States, Alaska Airlines has one of the absolute best surfboard bag policies. Alaska charges their standard checked baggage fee which is $30 for the first bag, and $40 for the second bag. Check out other top airlines for board bag fees in our Guide to Surfboard Bag Fees .

BEST TIME TO VISIT OAHU

The best time to visit Oahu Hawaii depends on where you’re going and what you’re looking for. For example, if you’re looking to surf the North Shore, you should go in the fall or winter months (October – April) because in the summer the North Shore is flat as a lake. Below we’ve broken down different tourist seasons, as well as some insights on the best times to visit different areas.

While tourism runs high year-round, even Hawaii has peak seasons when prices increase along with the number of visitors. Like any travel destination, you’ll find fewer crowds and lower prices if you travel in the off-season or shoulder season. Ironically, the peak seasons in Oahu don’t actually coincide with the best weather in Oahu. The peak seasons in Oahu are actually when the weather is bad in other places!

Peak Season

The high season in Oahu (when prices are highest and resorts are often booked to capacity) is generally from mid-December through March or mid-April. The last two weeks of December over the holidays are an especially busy (and expensive) time for travel in Hawaii. If you’re planning a trip over the holidays, make your reservations early, expect more crowds, and be prepared to pay top dollar for airfare, car rentals, and accommodation.

Mid-June to late August is also a busy time, as kids are out of school and families are taking summer vacations.

Between the last week of April and early May, Hawaii is especially busy with Japanese tourists off for a series of holidays in Japan called Golden Week. Be sure to book ahead (especially in Waikiki) during this time.

The spring (mid-April to mid-June) and fall (September to mid-December) are the offseasons in Oahu and generally really great times to visit. You’ll find the best rates, fewer crowds, and also some of the best weather of the year.

Best Time to Visit the North Shore

If you want to go to the North Shore to swim, dive, and soak up the sun, summer is the best time for your trip. Summer is also a great time for (non-surfing) families on the North Shore because the water is tame and perfect for beach days along the stunning Pacific.

If you’re going to the North Shore to surf, the fall is a great time (October to November) to visit, especially if you’re an intermediate surfer. For advanced surfers gunning for the biggest surf, the biggest swells will typically roll through between December and February.

Generally speaking, the winter months on the North Shore will be the rainiest and windiest of the year.

Best Time to Visit Waikiki & Honolulu

The south and southwest coasts of Oahu are on the leeward side of the island so they get the most sunshine year round. Anytime is a great time to visit Honolulu and the South Shore, but for the best prices, you’ll want to avoid the peak tourist seasons outlined above.

If you would like to surf on your trip, swells hit the south in the summer months (May – October), but note that if you’re just learning how to surf then anytime is fine.

Best Time to Visit Kailua & the East Side

The best time to visit Kailua and the east side of Oahu (leeward side) is during the spring, fall, or summer months. While the weather is warm year-round like the rest of Oahu, this side of the island gets much more rain and wind during the winter months.

** If whale watching is on your agenda, humpback whales migrate through Hawaiian waters in the winter and spring months, from December through May. Going out on a whale-watching boat in Hawaii is a really amazing experience and highly recommended! Check out Whale Watching Excursions >>

TRAVEL COSTS IN OAHU

Fun fact: Hawaii is Earth’s most isolated landmass. Add that to being one of the most famous vacation spots in the world and you get a not-so-budget-friendly travel destination. But if you’re working with a lower budget, don’t despair! There are definitely still ways to travel to Hawaii on a budget, and we’ll give some tips and budget recommendations for accommodation.

Below we’ve outlined some rough costs for a trip to Hawaii based on low, mid-range, and luxury budgets. Further along, we’ll go more into depth on costs in our sections on transportation, shelter, and food.

If you’re traveling with a light wallet, you can get by on around $50 – $100 per day. Like always, it just depends on how you travel and how you want to spend your money. The cheapest way to sleep is to camp for around $10 a night, and then the next price point for accommodation is around $30 per night for a hostel. Here’s a general breakdown of costs:

• Accommodation: $15 – $50 per night
• Food: $20 – $30 per person, per day
• Transportation: $5 – $30 per day

If you have a mid-range budget, you can be living well for around $150 – $400 per person, per day. If you’re traveling with a group, you’ll get the most bang for your buck by splitting the cost of a vacation rental.

• Accommodation: $100 – $300 per night
• Food/drinks: $30 – $90 per person, per day
• Transportation: $30 – $60 per day

If money ain’t no thang then you’ll be living large from around $450+ per day. Oahu has lots of stunning beachfront vacation rentals so do yourself a favor and stay at one!

• Accommodation: $400+ per night
• Food/drinks: $60+ per person, per day
• Transportation: $60+ per day

SURFING IN OAHU

Types of Surf Breaks

Reef breaks, sand bottom beach breaks, a few points, and more reef breaks. The island of Oahu is surrounded by quality reefs for surfing. There are occasional gaps in the reef where you can find patches of sand, but for the most part, when surfing Oahu you can count on surfing over varying degrees of shallow coral or slabby rock bottom reefs. For an overview of the most well-known surf breaks on Oahu, check out our guide to Oahu Surf Spots .

Level of Difficulty

Beginner to ‘experts only.’ Oahu, Hawaii offers waves for all levels, from small rolling waves that are perfect for a beginner to double overhead stomach-wrenching barrels that are reserved for high-level experts only.

Season & Swell Info

Oahu has year-round surf and two main surf regions; the North Shore and the South Shore. Depending on where you plan to go you’ll either be looking for predominantly NW swells if headed to the North Shore or SW swells if headed to the South Shore.

The North Shore of Oahu comes to life around September with early season swells through April with late-season swells. The peak season is fall and winter from October through March. The South Shore, on the other hand, works on an opposite schedule. SW swells are typically on offer from May through October.

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North Shore Surf Season

October through April is North Shore Oahu’s main surf season, with the biggest and gnarliest surf rolling through from December through February. The beaches of North Shore, Oahu thrive on mid to long-period NW swells and easterly trade winds. If the winds are onshore here, check the West Side for possible offshores.

South Shore Surf Season

May through October is South Shore Oahu’s main surf season. During the peak season of July through September, commonly known beginner breaks like Waikiki can produce double overhead waves at times.

West Side Surf Season

The surf season on the “Leeward” side mostly coincides with the North Shore. When a big NW swell maxes out the North Shore, the West Side can be significantly smaller, more manageable, and really fun. But it all depends on the swell direction because it can easily be just as big if not bigger. The West Side is home to some famous Big Wave spots like Makaha and also known to come along with some extra heavy localism, so be cool. And finally, if the wind is blowing onshore on the North Shore, the West Side could be offshore.

East Side Surf Season

The surf season on the “Windward” side of the island is mainly winter. If there is some swell with easterly direction to it, then it might be worth a check. Look out for East, NE, or SE swells and big NW swells that have the size and direction to wrap around the point.

Moderate to packed. Surfing is a cornerstone of Hawaiian culture and Oahu is the mecca of surf destinations . Depending on the break, time of year, and surf conditions there could be anywhere from 4 to 84 other surfers in the lineup. It really varies depending on a lot of factors, but the average crowd is typically around 20 – 30.

Water Temperature

Not too hot, not even close to too cold, the ocean temperature in Oahu ranges from a cool 72 degrees to a warm 81 degrees Fahrenheit (22 – 27 °C). Depending on your warmth preference you’ll probably find yourself in boardshorts or bikinis most of the time and will never need more than a 2mm wetsuit top or spring suit.

Good to Know

During the peak season, it’s not always huge and unmanageable for the average surfer. A beginner or intermediate surfer can find plenty of fun shoulder to head high plus days before or after a big swell hits.

However, practice major caution if you’re planning to paddle out on a building swell. There is no shortage of horror stories about the surfer who paddled out thinking it was a manageable overhead day, and then the swell doubles or triples in size in only 30-40 minutes and they think they might die trying to get back into shore.

Surf Lessons

While Oahu is famous for powerful waves, there are plenty of ideal surf spots for beginners with gentle waves, and many good surf instructors on the North Shore and in Honolulu. Here are a few great surfing lessons with top reviews:

• Surf Lessons on the North Shore of Oahu
• Family Surf Lessons in Waikiki
• Private Surf Lessons in Honolulu

For an overview of some of the top surf breaks on Oahu, check out our guide to Oahu Surf Spots .

WHERE TO STAY

Being the popular vacation destination that it is, Oahu has a diverse range of options when it comes to accommodation. Something a bit unique to the island is that there aren’t many hotel and resort options outside of Honolulu.

Smaller towns like the North Shore and Kailua have kept large hotels at bay to keep a tab on mass tourism and protect the areas from towering buildings interrupting the skyline (ahem, like Waikiki). So while there are lots of hotels and resorts in Honolulu (and a couple on the southwest side), on the rest of the island your options are vacation rentals or a few resorts like Turtle Bay Resort on the North Shore.

There used to be many vacation rental options on Oahu, but due to some recent strict short-term rental laws, many short-term rentals are no longer available so there is high demand. Because many places will book out, we recommend booking your reservation as soon as possible for the best options.

As with most things in Hawaii, the cost of accommodation isn’t very budget-friendly. If you’re traveling on a low budget your best bet is to camp or there are also a couple of hostel options available. In the budget range, you can expect to pay $10 – $50 a night.

For a mid-range budget, you’ll pay around $100 – $400 per night.

In the luxury realm (over $400 per night) there are plenty of super-luxe hotels to choose from on Oahu. As we mentioned, most large resorts are in Honolulu, but there are a few in other parts of the island as well, including on the southwest side of the island (Ko Olina area). One thing to keep in mind is that all of the hotels in Oahu add a hefty tax, plus a nightly resort fee, so keep that in mind when looking at pricing.

If you want to stay in the middle of the action and tourism hub, stay in Honolulu or Waikiki. If you prefer closer access to more secluded beaches and areas of the island, we highly recommend renting a vacation rental on the North Shore (in the winter if you surf), or if you don’t surf, around Lanikai and Kailua is a beautiful area as well.

Oahu Vacation Rentals

Mid-range • $100 – $400 per night.

High-End • $400+ per night

Oahu Hotels

THINGS TO DO IN OAHU

Oahu is full of awesome activities and things to do. Whether you’re looking for family fun or adrenaline-infused adventures, Oahu has all types of activities for all types of travelers. Here are our top picks for things to do in Oahu (besides beach hopping!).

Learn to Surf

While Oahu is known for its powerful waves, there are plenty of spots that are perfect for surfing lessons, and many skilled surf instructors on the island. Here are a few great surf schools with top reviews:

Take a Boat Cruise & Go Snorkeling

• from $169 per person
• from $295 per person
• from $899 per group (up to 6)

Swim With Sharks

• from $135 per person
• from $154 per person

Other Fun Activities

Eat & drink.

Hawaii’s unique cuisine reflects the varied food history of immigration and settlement in the Hawaiian islands. Some dishes from Polynesian and Native Hawaiian culture remain, but modern Hawaiian cuisine incorporates multiple styles of food created by a diverse range of cultures who have settled in Hawaii.

Europeans and Americans arrived to Hawaii and introduced their cuisine in the late 1700s, and as pineapple and sugarcane plantations grew in the 1800s, so did the demand for labor. To meet the demand, many immigrant workers from China, Korea, Japan, the Philippines, Puerto Rico and Portugal arrived in Hawaii, introducing their native foods and influencing the region.

Because of the range of influences, Hawaiian food has become a true fusion, including everything from malasadas (Portuguese donuts), to the Japanese-influenced spam musubi (fried spam atop rice wrapped with seaweed, sushi-style), to the famous Kalua pig (a whole pig wrapped in banana leaves and slow-cooked in an underground oven).

There’s also lots of great food from Southeast Asia, so great Thai and Vietnamese food abounds.

If your budget allows, there’s a lot of fantastic restaurants in Oahu, from Hawaiian to uber healthy, to Japanese and everything in between. Honolulu has had an influx of hip restaurants pop up the last several years, and while smaller areas like the North Shore and Kailua have fewer options, there’s always delicious food to be had.

Food trucks are all over the island, and especially on the North Shore where there are multiple food truck parks with 5 – 10 food trucks in one place. Check out our Guide to the North Shore for some of our top recommendations.

A few Hawaiian foods to try:

• Hawaiian Plate Lunch –  A filling and typically cheap plate that can include many different types of Hawaiian dishes, but they are always flanked by mayonnaise-based macaroni salad and two scoops of white rice. Try Kalua pig, loco moco (hamburger patties topped with brown gravy and a fried egg), pork or chicken laulau (wrapped in taro leaves), pipikaula (dried beef), lomi salmon on the side, with a helping of poi (taro, cooked, pounded and thinned with water).
• Poke  – Raw cubes of marinated fish or seafood. Kind of like a ceviche. There’s a ton of different options and they’re all delish.
• Manapua  – Hawaii’s take on traditional Chinese bao. Baked or steamed pillowy buns filled with delicious stuff, in this case, sweet char siu pork.
• Shave Ice  – It’s like a really finely-ground snow cone (but way better), topped   with your choice of delicious tropical-flavored syrup.
• Spam dishes  – Hawaii is really into spam, so don’t knock it till you’ve tried it and give it a whirl.
• Malasadas  – Super fresh fried donuts covered in sugar, and optionally filled with deliciousness. 
• Acai Bowls  – Basically a thick smoothie made from acai berries topped with different toppings like granola, bananas, honey, and more. These are everywhere nowadays, but most likely Hawaii had them before your town did (unless you’re from Brazil).
• Ted’s Bakery Chocolate Haupia Cream Pie  – Haupia is a traditional coconut-based dessert. So this pie is essentially a silky delicious coconut chocolate cream pie. Ted’s Bakery is on Oahu’s North Shore, but the pies are sold in many supermarkets.

Because most food (and items in general) needs to be shipped across the ocean, food in Hawaii is on the expensive side. And by that we mean, we’ve seen $8 for a gallon of milk.

Of course, the sky’s the limit if you have the money to spend, but if you’re on a budget, you can expect to pay at least $10-15 per meal if you’re eating out. Some food trucks have big portions and are reasonably-priced, but if you’re on a super minimal budget, you can always cook store-bought basics like rice, pasta, etc.

While you could go bare bones and survive on less, to be safe, we recommend budgeting at least $30 per day for food.

If you’re a Costco member and you’re staying with several people (and you have access to a kitchen), we recommend stopping by Costco and stocking up on some food there. They have the best food prices around so it will save you from the super inflated prices at most grocery stores, especially on the North Shore. If you’re headed to the North Shore there’s a Costco on the way from the airport so you can stock up on the way to your place if the timing works.

TRANSPORTATION

Your transportation options in Oahu are straightforward. You can rent a car, take the bus, or hire a taxi. That being said, the best way to get around Oahu is by car. Even though Oahu is a relatively small island, if you want to explore on your own terms and/or you’re traveling with surfboards, renting a car is the way to go.

Car Rentals

Unless you plan to stay put in one area, a car is almost a necessity. Honolulu International Airport (HNL) has some of the best car rental rates in Hawaii, so just make a reservation for a car at the airport for when you arrive. If you’re traveling with two or more people it’s well worth it, even if you’re on a budget. There can be some bad traffic (especially in and around Honolulu) at peak hours, so try to drive between 9 am and 3 pm, or after 6 pm to avoid the worst of it.

Rates vary depending on demand and the time of year, but rates (including taxes) for a week start at around:

• $208 ($29.50 per day) for Compact/Economy
• $287 ($41 per day) for a Midsize SUV
• $140 per night for a camper van with Hawaii Surf Campers

While we always recommend that you never leave valuables in your car, this especially goes for Oahu. Unfortunately, there are frequent car break-ins, so always be sure to take everything out of your car. Cars are broken into even in highly populated beach parking areas such as Sunset Beach on the North Shore. And if you think you’re being sly by hiding your purse under your car seat, think again—we’ve seen evidence of thieves looking especially for that.

Also be extra careful about parking your car on the far west side of the island, past Makaha. There are frequent break-ins and whole cars have actually been stolen there. So it kinda goes without saying that you’ll want to make sure you have some good insurance for your rental car. But just in case you need clarification: get insurance for your rental car. And not to alarm you or anything, Oahu is a very friendly place… just, unfortunately, there is some petty crime targeting visitors. As long as you avoid leaving valuables in your car you should be fine.

Public Transportation

Honolulu’s bus transit system, appropriately named TheBus , is the only mass transit system to be honored twice by the American Public Transportation Association, the Oscars of mass transit. So it’s pretty good as far as buses go.

Most Oahu buses arrive at the bus stops every 10 to 30 minutes, but some buses only pass by once an hour on Sundays, holiday, and less traveled areas. A majority of Oahu buses on different island routes travel through Waikiki (on Kuhio Ave), Ala Moana Mall, and/or downtown Honolulu (all which are very close to each other). 

You can get TheBus routes and timetables here .

If you’re planning on mostly staying in one area, like the North Shore, you can definitely get by on taking the bus around town. It will just take some more planning and time to get around.

• Adults – $2.75
• Ask your bus operator for the 1-Day Pass before placing your money in the farebox.
• Valid 12:00 a.m. – 2: 59 a.m. the next day, for up to 27 hours of unlimited rides.
• Kids, 5 years & under – Free  (when accompanied by a fare-paying passenger and not occupying a seat)
• Youth, ages 6 to 17 – $1.25  (1-Day Pass $2.50)
• Seniors over 65 and Handicap Fare- $1.00 with  Bus Senior Card or valid US Medical Card
• $35   – 4 Day island riding pass (available at ABC Stores in Waikiki & Ala Moana Shopping Center)
• Exact change is required (Bus operators do not carry change and are not allowed to feed the fare box for you).
• Included transfers were discontinued in 10/17, so riders who need to transfer may purchase a 1-Day Pass on the bus good for rides all day.
• Baggage that can be stored under a passenger’s seat or on a passenger’s lap, that will not protrude to another seat or otherwise interfere with other passengers, will be admitted at no charge. TheBus website states that a “Soft boogie board without skeg or fin, dried and washed clean of sand and other debris” is acceptable up to a maximum of 48’’ in length, but surfboards are not mentioned. 

Taxis in Oahu are expensive, and you’ll most likely have to call ahead. Rather than hailing a cab, taxi stands and calling taxis are the norm in Hawaii. You can find taxi stands at most major shopping centers, in the business district, and at the airport.

Honolulu also has Uber available. All types of Ubers are allowed to drop off at the airport, but only certain types of cars are allowed to do airport pickups.

Fares are fixed, so regardless of the cab company or the traffic, expect to pay around $30 (not including a 10 to 15 percent tip) to go from the airport to Waikiki or downtown, about $60 to go from the airport to Kailua, and about $80 to go from the airport to the North Shore.

Travel Insurance

While we’d all rather not think about getting injured, there are too many cases of people who didn’t think about insurance and get nailed with crazy medical bills after the matter.

That being the case, many hotels and surf properties actually require that you have approved travel insurance in case of a serious inquiry or trip cancellation, especially in the wake of COVID.

You know the deal—better safe than sorry. We recommend  battleface  or  World Nomads Insurance . Both companies offer very comprehensive travel insurance and cover heaps of activities, including surfing and ocean sports. You can easily check them out and get a fast quote below.

Get a battleface Insurance Quote >>

Get a World Nomads Insurance Quote >>

North Shore, Oahu / Where to Surf, Eat, Stay, and Play

Oahu Surf Spots / A Guide to the Top Surf Breaks in Oahu

Banzai Pipeline / The Ultimate Guide to the World’s Most Famous Wave

Honolulu, Hawaii / A Day in The Aloha State’s Big City

Two Months of Surf & The Good Life in North Shore Oahu

Oahu Travel Guide ebook

Any questions, tips, or recommendations about Oahu Hawaii?

Please let us know in the comments below, you may also like.

Puerto Escondido Surf & Travel Guide / Where to Surf, Stay, & Play

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Maldives Surf & Travel Guide / Plan Your Surf Trip to Paradise

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31 thoughts on “Oahu Hawaii Travel Guide / Everything You Need To Know”

Hi Guys, Thank you for your amazing site!! Answered so many questions and clarified things I could not find anywhere else!! Incredibly helpful and insightful. THANK YOU

Hi Brad, thanks for feedback! That’s very encouraging and much appreciated. Cheers

Thanks again. Is it possible to walk from Turtle bay to the surf beaches of Nth shore? Also where is best to hire a car please? Thanks

Hey Brad, no, you can walk around and explore the beaches around Turtle Bay. But Turtle Bay sits on about 1300 acres of land, so there are a lot of nature trails and protected area around to explore. While Turtle Bay is considered the tip of the North Shore, the main beaches of the north shore start around Velzyland, which is about a 6 min drive from Turtle Bay. From Velzyland, you can walk south to Sunset Beach and beyond all the way to Pipeline. The beach is quite slopped in many areas though and the sand very soft and loose, so you’ll be sure to get a good leg burning workout if you do that. For car rental, I’d say get one at the airport, Sixt is our go to, or check out Turo (like Airbnb for car rentals) if you want to blend in more and rent from a local. Also, not sure if you already booked your stay at Turtle Bay, by the way, Lush Palm is a surf travel company and direct booking agency for Turtle Bay and over 100 surf properties around the globe. Would love to work with you to book your trips now and/or in the future. Thanks for the support. Cheers

Where is the most cost effective place to rent a suv for 7

Hi Ellie, you might want to try Turo. You can find some great deals on there sometimes. Cheers

Nice article, it helped us a lot to explore. I am an entrepreneur by profession and a traveler by heart. Your article made our stay exciting. Very attractive information.

Hey Alex, thanks so much, glad the article helped you make the most of your travel time! That’s what we’re trying to do here. Cheers

HELLO IM LOOKING TO VISIT OAHU IN NOVEMBER FOR MY 40th BIRTHDAY AND I WANT TO KNOW IF YOU HAVE ANY ALL INCLUSIVE PACKAGES FROM ANY RESORTS OR HOTELS…? THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME

Hello, what a great way to spend your 40th. We don’t have any all-inclusive packages at this time but it is definitely something that we are considering putting together for the future. Hope you have an awesome trip!

This travel guide is so helpful! Can’t wait to go to Hawaii one day 🙂 Brianna

Nice tips. I would add that all hotels have fees that people should remember to check because it increases the price significantly. It is difficult to stay in Hawaii with a low budget unless you are camping. If you stay for a month or more consider a short term rental but be aware that there are a lot of restrictions of those currently,

Thanks, Dino! And yes, definitely agree with your points. Daily resort fees can be quite high at hotels and resorts in Oahu, so it’s always good to make sure you know all costs when comparing pricing.

Wow, what a thorough write up and great read for anyone traveling to the island. Awesome read Tara, thanks!

My pleasure 🙂 Thanks so much for your feedback! Cheers

Planning a retirement trip to the island early December 2021. 2 couples and looking for any help you can provide. We’re planning on renting a house, and car. We would like to be in a lower tourist area.

Hi Mary – For a lower tourist area, I would recommend the Lanikai area (if you don’t surf) or the North Shore (if you want to have surf nearby). There’s a lot of info in this guide, and we also have more insights on Oahu travel in our Oahu Travel Guide ebook here. Hope you have a wonderful trip! Cheers

This is awesome! I live on Oahu’s North Shore and do many vlogs here.

All of these tips are spot-on and always remember to keep the island clean! Please have respect!

These are really the things that everyone needs to know before travel towards Oahu.

Any recommendation for a personal surf/sherpa/ guide for Oahu?

Hi Marcel- Thanks for reaching out! We don’t know any personal surf guides on Oahu, but many of the breaks are easily accessible and have cams, so if you have some surf experience you should be fine. If you’re looking for a surf coach/lesson, I’d reach out to a surf school or you can also find surf lessons/guides in Airbnb’s experiences.

We also have an Oahu Travel Guide that includes lots of great info on surfing and traveling in Oahu.

Have an awesome trip!

Nice write up and local information! We are staying in Oahu at end of March for 2 weeks and our first trip to Hawaii. Will certainly put this information to use as we stay away from hotels and try to live like the locals on trips. Thanks, ems

Aloha Eddie! Thanks for your feedback! We also have a guide to the North Shore with some local recommendations here: https://lushpalm.com/north-shore-oahu/ Have a wonderful trip to Oahu 🙂 Happy travels!

Hi Eric, I was impressed by the way you actully answered peoples questions. << Pretty rare. I fell onto your sight looking for dates on surf contests, even though my travel dates, do not connect with any contests, I still bring my awesome camera and comb all the North shore hot spots & film, and wait until the surfer gets out of the water, I always ask permission to keep the video, and send them a copy, and upload it on surfline. North shore will always have my heart as I moved there when I was 21 yrs old, and stayed for 8 yrs. I had my hair dressers lincense, planted a table & chair on the beach and cut hair for $ 6.00 bucks a cut, paid $ 200 a month in rent right on backdoors, picked buds for extra holiday money, and have missed it everyday since. So now I bring my daughter and we stay in a local beach house 2 xs a yr. Never moving away from the beach, I live in SO Calif, 2 miles from bch, I don't surf anymore, I lost my balance, nearing 60, I now stick to beach clean up & photography. Anyhows, I love your site, Thanks for the surf info

Mahalo Tuesday Miles PS, this yr vacation lands in mid April beach house Rocky point.

How rude of me HI TARA, great writing on the blog, I enjoyed it very much.

Thanks, Tuesday! Happy you enjoyed it! Thanks for sharing snippets of your life on the North Shore. Sounds pretty awesome 🙂 . Have a great trip!

Hi Tuesday! Aww, thanks so much for the kind words and thoughtful comment. That’s a lovely memory you shared and it’s awesome that you get to share the North Shore of Oahu with your daughter now too. Thanks for chipping in and helping to keep the beaches clean! Glad you love our site and we really appreciate your support! Mahalo. We’re out here right now, but we’ll likely head back to So Calif around the end of March, so we’ll just miss you! I sure do love Rocky Point though. Cheers!

Hey, thanks for the mention of our hostel in your blog post. We have shared it on our social media. It looks like you are providing some great info here. Keep up the good work.

Could we also share our blog as well? Here is the link: https://polynesianhostel.com/blog

It’s great to have blog partners and the chance to support each other. Thanks again!

Aloha! You’re very welcome, yes, you can absolutely share your blog link. Thanks for the support and hopefully we’ll see you around, we just arrived on the North Shore for a couple months yesterday. Cheers!

What a fantastic site. I have a 16 year old who dreams of visiting to see the pro surfers so just in the early stages of trip planning around school times.

Hi Christine,

Thanks for the kind words 🙂 ! It’s really amazing to see a surf competition anywhere in the world, but especially Oahu because the waves are incredible. Any time of year is a great time to visit Oahu, but if you want to be in town for a top surf competition, you’ll want to be there within contest dates sometime between November and January. Here’s our guide to the top surf comps on the North Shore of Oahu: https://lushpalm.com/north-shore-surf-competition/

Let us know if any questions come up and happy planning!

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37 Hawaii Travel Tips for First Timers (2024) + Tips by Island

Updated on November 28, 2023

Heading to Hawaii on your first visit ? It’s going to be a magical experience! Do you know about reef-safe sunscreen? Shrimp trucks and malasadas? Where to find food trucks? Things to see on every island? Read on for my very best Hawaii travel tips! As a seasoned Hawaii traveler, I’ve already made most of these mistakes…so you don’t have to.

There are so many things I wish I’d known to avoid sunburns, crowds, and missed sights I didn’t know I needed to reserve ahead of time as I was figuring out where to go in Hawaii .

And I’ve listed some of them below! In addition to general Hawaii travel tips, you’ll also find specific insider tips for Maui , Oahu , Kauai , and Big Island .

1. Plan at least three days on one island.

2. know how to island hop., 3. embrace the spirit of “malama.”, 4. there are some popular free tourist attractions you must reserve in advance., 5. rent a car., 6. splurge on a unique experience., 7. bring reef-safe sunscreen., 8. pack at least two bathing suits., 9. you’ll want a rash guard and snorkel gear., 10. set google alerts for airfare deals., 11. book hotels and condos early for best rates., 12. save on food by enjoying the food truck scene., 13. skip the upsell at the rental car agency., 14. don’t over schedule yourself., 15. try hawaiian food specialties., 16. when in doubt, don’t go out, 17. don’t trespass on private property., 18. don’t panic about rain., 19. see the sunrise on mount haleakala on your first day., 20. stay in south maui., 21. leave early to drive the road to hana., 22. snorkel molokini crater., 23. see the island by helicopter., 24. spend part of your time on the north shore., 25. book a private guided tour to pearl harbor, 26. hike diamond head., 27. eat a malasada and hit up a shrimp truck., 28. visit the polynesian cultural center., 29. hike at least a little of the kalalau trail., 30. see the na pali coast by boat., 31. snorkel the tide pools at poipu., 32. visit the “grand canyon of the pacific.”, 33. see volcanos national park, 34. stay near kona for beaches., 35. swim with manta rays., 36. chase waterfalls, 37. visit hawaii tropical botanical garden., hawaii travel tips for first time visitors.

Hawaii is one of the best places to enjoy a tropical vacation .

If it’s your first visit, you may be wondering which Hawaii island you should visit . Who knows when you’ll get back to Hawaii again and you want to see all the famous spots , right?

But here’s the thing…You’ll likely eat up precious vacation time by flying to and from each island.

Unless you take a cruise to Hawaii, the only way to move between them (except for one lesser-known island off the coast of Maui) is to fly.

I promise that you’ll have plenty to do and see on each island on a 7-day visit. With 14 days, choose two Hawaiian islands. With three full weeks, choose three islands.

But at a minimum, I recommend you plan to spend at least three days per island!

Okay, you have at least six days and are dying to see two islands. What’s the best way to do it?

As noted above, you’ll be flying between islands. In addition to several regional airlines, you’ll find plenty of daily flights on Hawaiian Air and Southwest Airlines.

Just book directly with the airlines on their websites.

(This is always my recommendation for booking flights. If there are delays or cancellations, you’ll get better service from an airline with a direct booking over a third-party booking.)

Flights to Hawaii are frequent and generally affordable.

However, many include stopovers in Honolulu so if you’re looking to minimize stopovers and aren’t headed to Honolulu, book early to ensure you nab a short non-stop flight. You’ll conserve precious vacation time.

There is a daily ferry from Lahaina on Maui to Lanai, a remote island off Maui’s coast. You can even do it as a day trip.

But if this is your first visit to Hawaii, I recommend you save Lanai for a future trip.

There are so many bucket list experiences in Hawaii that you should prioritize Maui, Oahu, Kauai, and Big Island on a first visit.

(Unless you’re truly an off-the-beaten-path type of traveler who mostly wants to relax on pristine beaches.)

What is “malama” exactly? It means “to take care of” in Hawaiian. And this concept is deeply embedded in Hawaiian culture.

It’s a way of life! It means to be reverent on these beautiful islands…to protect and safeguard all the treasures of Hawaii for future generations.

Walk around fragile plant life rather than tromping through it to save a few steps with a shortcut.

Avoid touching or sitting on coral (which kills it). Respect Hawaii law that forbids taking coral home as a souvenir.

And most importantly, be respectful to your fellow humans—locals and tourists alike—when on island.

That means driving within Hawaii speed limits (which are frequently 35 mph…hey, you’re on vacation).

Choose kindness—instead of honking and yelling—when you find yourself in a busy parking lot or popular tourist attraction.

These all too common behaviors are what give tourists a bad name in Hawaii and lead to ever more restrictions.

There are a handful of adventures on each island that are completely free but must be reserved in advance.

That’s because the State of Hawaii, a year or two ago, decided to enforce daily limits on entrance to key sights and fragile ecosystems in response to rampant over tourism.

Regulating the flow of people was actually the best decision ever but it also means you’ve got to plan ahead!

If you’re hoping to walk even the first quarter mile of the famous Kalalau Trail on Kauai or Diamond Head on Oahu, you’ll need an advance reservation.

And there are different restrictions on how soon these can be reserved in advance of your visit.

Hawaii is difficult to get around without a car. If you’re on a cruise, your best bet is to reserve day tours where someone else does the driving.

Viator has a nice selection of tours to see popular sites on every island. ( Just type in the island you’re visiting at the top of the page and see what pops up.)

Some islands—like Oahu—have decent bus service, but honestly, you’re going to find a car to be the best option for accessing the remote beaches and bucket list sites you’ve likely come to Hawaii to see.

Like all things in Hawaii, rental cars are not cheap so reserve well ahead of your visit to secure the best prices.

How to Rent a Car in Hawaii My top two recs are: 1. Discover Cars has no hidden fees, 24/7 customer service, and free cancellation. They search all the major rental car companies so you don’t have to. Check price and availability on rental cars here . 2. Turo is like Airbnb for cars. It saved us $$$ during the pandemic on our Hawaii rentals when rental car prices were sky-high.

If you’re going to visit Hawaii, this is the time to indulge in a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

Seeing the jaw-dropping green peaks of the Na Pali Coast on Kauai or the hundreds of hairpin turns on Maui’s Road to Hana from the air is a bucket list experience.

Honestly, a helicopter ride on any of the islands is something you’ll never forget.

But if that’s not in the budget, don’t despair. There are literally dozens of incredible day trips on every Hawaiian island to enjoy.

From snorkeling Molokini Crater and sunset dinner cruises to whale-watching excursions and visiting Pearl Harbor, a guided trip can offer a deeper appreciation of the history, ecology, and cultural aspects of what you’re seeing from a knowledgeable local.

You can check out popular day trips on every Hawaiian island here on Viator .

Read more on worldwide travel tips: • 26 Activities to Do on Maui • Bucket List Activities on Kauai • 26 Morocco travel tips

Is the kind of sunscreen you buy and wear in Hawaii really that important? Yes! In fact, it’s critical for maintaining the health of Hawaii’s coral reefs and marine life.

The sad reality is that there are more than 14,000 tons of sunscreen floating in Hawaii’s oceans due to over tourism.

And a very common sunscreen ingredient—Oxybenzene—kills coral…which all those beautiful tropical fish depend on for nutrients.

That’s why using sunscreen that is not reef-safe is actually illegal in Hawaii. You can pick up the good stuff at most any grocery store or snorkel shop on island.

But to save money, consider grabbing at least a TSA-compliant size of reef-safe sunscreen on Amazon before you go.

Also, the sun is HOT in Hawaii. Unless you want to be hiding from the sun due to sunburn on your tropical vacation, get SPF 45 or 50! You can get some reef-safe sunscreen on Amazon here .

I always travel carry-on these days because the risk of my luggage getting lost is just too great.

So I need to be thoughtful about the things that are going to be on my Hawaii packing list .

And honestly, the biggest mistake I made the first time I visited was over-packing clothes and make-up and under-packing when it came to bathing suits. It’s hot and humid in Hawaii. Plus, most of my time was spent hiking and on beaches. I didn’t reach for my make-up once!

But you’re also not going to want to put on a damp suit the next day either so be sure and bring a few options!

My favorite one piece is actually on Amazon . It’s comfortable, cute, and I like the ruching—pleated fabric—on the front that is slenderizing.

Men love these Nautica quick dry classic trunks .

Are you an avid snorkeler? Or will this be your first time snorkeling in Hawaii?

If you don’t own snorkel gear and aren’t likely to snorkel any time soon after your Hawaii vacation, I recommend renting your gear once you arrive in Hawaii.

You can just head to any snorkel shop—no advance reservation required—and have someone fit you for goggles, a snorkel mask, and fins. It will likely cost you less than $100 for a 7-day rental per person.

However, if you are likely to snorkel in future, you may as well invest in a great fit. (There’s less risk of a leaky mask which can be frustrating when renting.) Either head to your local snorkel shop—you can even order goggles with a prescription—or pick up a snorkel mask and dive fins on Amazon .

I do recommend you invest in a rash guard, however…even if you may never snorkel again!

Rash guards are lightweight, stretchy vests that protect you from the sun. And as noted earlier, the sun is much stronger than you’re used to in Hawaii.

It’s the best way I know to protect your back and chest while snorkeling. I prefer a rash guard with a zipper but for men or women that prefer a standard rash guard, check out this one on Amazon.

One of the best ways I know to save money on a trip to Hawaii is on airline tickets!

Fares are particularly competitive from the U.S. west coast. You can often fly round-trip for less than $200 per person if you hit a sale on Southwest, Alaska Airlines, or Hawaiian Air.

So consider a repositioning flight to San Francisco, LA or San Diego if this sounds like a deal compared to fares from where you live.

You can either sign up (free) for Scott’s Cheap Flights which emails you with deals on flights—I get Hawaii airfare sale notifications all the time—or just set an alert in Google Flights for the same outcome.

Travel hack: Alaska Airlines offers a perk for holders of its credit card.

You’re entitled to one companion pass annually at a cost of $99 to anywhere Alaska flies. So you pay for one ticket and your companion comes with you for $99! Steal.

I’m not going to lie…accommodations in Hawaii will be the most expensive part of your stay.

One reason is that the state of Hawaii is imposing new restrictions on long-term condo rentals.

Like in many other places around the globe, too many Airbnbs have driven up housing rentals for locals and this is an effort to get a handle on the problem.

If you do rent on Airbnb and VRBO, you can look for a license number (or ask your host) to ensure you’re renting a legal property. But book many months ahead for best selection!

Fabulous resorts abound on every Hawaiian island but the same principle applies: Book early!

If you collect airline miles for free flights and hotel stays—I recommend signing up for the free 10x Travel point hacking course to learn how—there are some great redemptions at resorts in Hawaii, particularly at Hyatt.

However, you’ll need to book a year out for best selection.

One of the ways I offset my pricey accommodations in Hawaii—and my sunset cocktail budget—is by taking full advantage of the vibrant food truck scene in Hawaii.

I wrote posts about some of the best food trucks on Maui and also on Oahu here. You’ll find them all throughout the Hawaiian islands.

You’ll find everything from specialty Asian dishes and pizza to smoothies and Hawaiian shrimp trucks (on the north shore of Oahu).

Just as restaurants are expensive in Hawaii so too are groceries and booze. Remember, you’re on an island. Everything has to be flown in!

We typically pack sandwiches and snacks for the beach to slim down our grocery bill.

The other thing we do is head directly to Costco to stack up on snacks and wine. (In Kauai, Costco is located conveniently next to both the airport and a pod of a dozen delicious food trucks for a double win!)

When you arrive at the car rental agency on island, don’t be surprised if you get a stern lecture about taking your rental car off-road and a recommendation to upgrade to a 4WD vehicle for $$$$.

It’s true that you should not be taking your car rental off-road if the agency forbids it, but unless you have some extremely remote activities planned, a 4WD vehicle is not likely required.

This car rental agency tactic is particularly prevalent on Maui where renters are asked if they plan on driving the Road to Hana (which you should definitely do!).

However, if you’re like most tourists, you’ll be driving it as a day trip round-trip from Paia.

While it has many twists and turns, it’s a safe and easy road to drive in any standard vehicle.

If you decide to drive it counterclockwise though from South Maui, you might actually want that 4WD!

Even traveling as often as I do, I still have to fight my tendency to over schedule on a vacation.

It happens so easily when you’re visiting a far-flung place and consuming lots of information about things to do there.

But honestly, the best way to slip into island life is to sip a Mai Tai at the pool or relax on one of the stunning soft sandy beaches.

Leave time to watch the rainbows flicker after a burst of warm tropical rain…swim with technicolor fish…check out the roosters wandering the beach!

Don’t get me wrong…There are amazing things to see in Hawaii and you should see some. Just don’t feel like you have to be driving or touring every single day.

Let the magic of Hawaii seep in slowly by being fully present in the beauty here. This is the way to feel rejuvenated after a getaway.

There are a few very specific things you should taste when you’re in the Hawaiian islands!

Shave ice—it’s like a colorful snow cone with tropical syrup—makes the perfect refresher after a warm day at the beach.

Poke is big here, too. It’s diced, marinated raw fish and is a native Hawaiian dish. It’s delicious and is frequently served in a bowl with rice, veggies, and special sauces.

If you attend a luau, you’re likely to taste some kalua pork! Traditionally, kalua pork is slow-cooked in an underground pit.

You may also enjoy Haupia cream pie at a luau. This flaky pie crust is layered with dark chocolate custard cream and silky haupia (coconut milk).

If you’re headed to Oahu, try it at Ted’s Bakery. They’re famous for it!

Unless you are an accomplished swimmer and surfer who is accustomed to riding big waves, you’ll want to follow the surfer’s motto “When in doubt, don’t go out!”

Much like first-time visitors who get sunburned on their first day, plenty of tourists who arrive from land-locked destinations get in over their heads in Hawaii’s big surf.

In fact, Hawaii is the drowning capital of the world.

On Kauai’s north shore, for example, it’s just open ocean.

Plenty of visitors float in Queen’s Bath there—despite the dire warnings and signs forbidding it—and are washed away by a rogue wave.

Surf changes all the time. One day a bay could look like bath water and the next have huge waves pounding the beach or a strong undertow.

So know your skill level and limits and decide accordingly.

Look for a beach with a lifeguard if you’re traveling with small children or just want to double down on safety.

This is one of the biggest friction points between Hawaiian locals and tourists.

Tourists tend to ignore signs asking them to stay off private property as they look for a shortcut to a beach or that perfect shot for Instagram.

Some of the confusion arises from the fact that all of Hawaii’s beaches are considered public.

And while that may be true, it doesn’t mean you can infringe on private property rights to get there. All-access to those public places is not legal.

You wouldn’t be happy if you saw some in your backyard tromping through your garden, would you?

The first time I visited Hawaii, I hopped on the plane, opened my weather app, and about had a panic attack.

It showed 100% chance of rain every day of my entire trip!

Now I know that’s because it does rain every day in Hawaii…just not all day long. Gentle showers and mists start and stop for an hour here and there many days of the week. T

hat’s what gives Hawaii its lush botanical beauty.

So if you find yourself at the beach when a sudden shower hits, just move to the shore and take a breather under a tree—but not a palm tree; those coconuts will kill you when they fall—to admire the rainbow.

In no time, the sun will be back out.

Maui Travel Tips

If you’re headed to Maui , don’t miss the view from the top of Mount Haleakala, which is actually a dormant volcano.

This is a popular place to see the sunrise. And if that’s your goal, a great day to do it is your first day on Maui.

Why? Because if you’re coming from the continental USA, you’re likely to be up early. Maui time is two hours behind the west coast.

And if you’re staying in South Maui as many do (see below), it’s going to be a 90-minute drive just to get there.

If you’d prefer to skip the early morning—and the substantial sunrise crowds—sunset here also makes a good alternative.

Other insider tips for visiting: Bring your puffy coat! It’s icy and windy up here at dawn. Also, be aware that it’s often very foggy here. Personally, I’ve been stuck in fog on both of my visits! You can check price and availability on a Haleakala sunrise tour here .

In my view, the best places to stay in Maui are Kihei for renting a condo and Wailea for resorts.

Don’t get me wrong Lahaina , Ka’anapali, and Kapalua are all excellent spots to stay in west Maui, too.

The only downside with those locations is that you’ll find drive times are a bit longer to get to South Maui beaches, Mount Haleakala, and Road to Hana.

Just be aware there is only a small road—with one lane in each direction—that connects south Maui to west Maui…and it can often become clogged during commuting hours.

Nearly everyone who visits Maui spends a day driving the epic Road to Hana on the east side of the island.

And it’s easy to see why. It’s one of the most scenic drives in the USA, with 64 miles of waterfalls, dramatic ocean views, and a black sand beach.

So you won’t be the only one on the narrow two-lane road here. And it’s a lot more enjoyable if it doesn’t feel like a parking lot where you’re inching along all day.

If you don’t want to fight for parking (or skip popular sights because there’s nowhere to park), start your day very early! Or leave the driving to someone else on a guided tour .

You’ll also find there are way more stops than you’ll have time for on a day trip so getting an early start also helps you see more.

Your other alternative is to book a night in Hana to enjoy a more leisurely pace. You’ll have the beauty all to yourself after the day trippers have gone!

Snorkeling Molokini Crater is one of the most popular day trips on Maui. It’s like snorkeling in an aquarium of tropical fish.

The best time to sign up for your tour is morning. The wind tends to kick up in the afternoon so snorkeling conditions are less ideal than with choppy waves.

Be sure to also choose a smaller boat for a more personal experience on your Molokini tour. I recommend this one .

Maui is the perfect place to tour by helicopter! (Although honestly, Kauai and Oahu are also excellent options for viewing dramatic scenery.) You can’t go wrong here…Some tours head for the vivid green peaks of the West Maui mountains while others head to the east side to view the rainforest on the Road to Hana. Both are epic experiences!

You can check price and availability on a Maui helicopter tour here .

Oahu Travel Tips

Many first-time visitors to Hawaii choose Oahu, known as “The Gathering Place”as their first island.

And, while it’s tempting to spend all your time in Waikiki down south when you plan a trip to Oahu, you’ll be missing the wild untamed beauty up north if you do!

So consider spending at least a few days on the north shore.

It feels very much like Kauai there with stunning white sand beaches that are practically people-free.

There are tons of excellent North Shore food trucks on Oahu , too…which is good because dining options are a little slimmer than in, say, Honolulu down south.

If you’re heading to Hawaii in winter, you must visit the north shore to see the big wave riders in the surfing competitions. It’s mesmerizing!

Visiting the Pearl Harbor National Memorial is a must on any visit to Oahu.

Your entrance ticket includes a short trip on a navy shuttle boat to the USS Arizona Memorial, the resting place of more than 1,000 soldiers and marines killed on that disastrous morning of December 7, 1942, when the Japanese attacked.

It’s a moving experience.

But what I didn’t know when I booked my advance ticket through the museum was that it wouldn’t be easy or convenient to see the Battleship Missouri Memorial.

That’s on Ford Island, which is an eight-minute drive away.

For this reason—and because the audio guide from the museum was underwhelming (even if it was narrated by Jamie Curtis) I highly recommend you book a half-day guided tour.

This is what we did when seeing the D-Day beaches in Normandy and it was an experience I’ll never forget. There’s no substitute for a local guide with deep knowledge. You can check out price and availability on a guided Pearl Harbor tour here .

Summiting the Diamond Head State Monument makes for a popular hike on Oahu .

The viewpoint at the top to see the Honolulu skyline and turquoise ocean in the distance is unforgettable!

However, as of May 2022, the state of Hawaii introduced a new reservation system for entry and parking.

If you show up without an advance reservation, you can’t get in.

Thankfully, your reservation includes parking because there are just 300 spots at the top.

If you arrive more than 30 minutes late, you forfeit that parking spot and will have a long, sweaty uphill hike just to get to the starting point of the hike. Be on time!

What is a malasada exactly? It’s very much like a donut.

While it’s technically from Portugal, it’s a Hawaiian specialty.

And the place to try one is at Leonard’s Bakery Malasad Truck, near Koko Head on the south shore.

On the North Shore, you’ll find no end of shrimp trucks.

That’s because the North Shore used to be an important center for freshwater aquaculture. And the shrimp are delicious!

For a deep dive into Polynesian culture, spend a day at the Polynesian Cultural Center. It makes a great stop between the south shore and north shore.

You’ll enjoy a lei greeting, tour through six authentic island villages, ride a canoe, and attend a luau buffet with entertainment and an evening show…depending on the admission you choose. You can check out price and availability of a tour that includes the Polynesian Cultural Tour and Pearl Harbor here .

Kauai Travel Tips

Hiking the Kalalau Trail on Kauai’s wild north shore is one of my very favorite things to do in Kauai.

It’s a rigorous 11-mile trail that seems to mostly climb straight up at the beginning; however, the trail also hugs the incredibly scenic Na Pali coast here.

Serious backpackers and hikers reserve many months ahead to secure a permit that allows to camp overnight past Hanakapi’ai Beach.

But I recommend even casual hikers spend an hour walking the beginning of this beautiful trail. It’s an experience you won’t want to miss!

Because it can be rocky, muddy, and uphill. I highly recommend adding trekking poles to your Kauai packing list . Be aware you must get an advance reservation, however…even if you just want to walk the first bit of the trail.

This is another must-do in Kauai!

Whether you book a sunset dinner cruise or a daytime snorkeling cruise that wanders in and out of scenic sea caves, a boat cruise on Kauai’s north shore is one of the very best ways to spend an unforgettable day.

The dramatic green cliffs frame the spectacular cerulean blue sea here as spinner dolphins jump and play in the boat’s wake. You can check out price and availability for Na Pali boat cruises here .

Beaches on Kauai’s north shore tend to be wild, rugged, and pristine.

It’s not uncommon to hang on to a rope and hike down through mud! And those beaches are absolutely gorgeous. But if you’re with young children or older travelers and you’re looking for flat, easy beach access, head to Poipu at the south end of Kauai.

Or better yet, sample beaches on both shores. There are some really wonderful tide pools for seeing beautiful tropical fish though on south shore beaches.

Waimea Canyon, nicknamed “the Grand Canyon of the Pacific”, does look a bit like the Grand Canyon…but with waterfalls and green, green cliffs!

While it’s definitely nowhere near as big as the Grand Canyon, it makes a phenomenal day out in kauai, even if you’re not a hiker.

The views at Kalepa Ridge across the cliffs to the sea are unworldly. So are the views at Waimea Canyon Lookout (mile marker 10) for views across the canyon.

Just be aware that even though Waimea Canyon is not geographically far from, say, the Kalalau Trail on the North Shore, the only way to access it is by driving clockwise all the way around the island until you’re back to 11:00…almost where you started from.

If you’re basing in Poipu, it’s a much shorter drive!

Big Island Travel Tips

Spend at least one day at the incredible Volcanos National Park.

Can you see lava flowing here? The answer is: it depends.

Eruptions start and stop in the park. Lava flowed for more than 30 years until 2018. Then a new fissure started up again in fall 2021 and stopped in December 2022.

Who knows what this year will bring!

But regardless, hiking Volcanos is a rewarding and beautiful experience. You’ll walk past steam vents, across moonscape-hardened lava, and through rain forests. Don’t miss it.

If it’s beaches you’re in search of on Big Island, you’ll want to base in a resort or condo in Kailua-Kona .

All the best beaches are on the west side of Big Island.

Volcanos National Park is in the middle and rainforested Hilo (with waterfalls galore) is on the west side of the island.

Plan to get your beach time in Kona though as there are very few sandy beaches on the other side of the island.

One of the most popular and unique experiences is swimming with manta rays at night (!) on the Big Island.

How did this tradition come to be? In the 1970s, the Sheraton Kona Resort used to illuminate the waves at night to create a beautiful ambiance for its guests.

And that light attracted plankton, a key food source for manta rays.

Today, you can float on a giant styrofoam noodle with them on a tour. Or, if you’re SCUBA certified, you can dive with them!

You can check price and availability on a manta ray guided swim here .

It’s hard to leave those epic beaches nestled in among hardened lava rock on the west side of the island, but you’ll definitely want to see Akaka Falls in Akaka Falls State Park.

It’s not far from Hilo. Rainbow Falls is close by, too!

If you arrive at just the right time of day, the light creates rainbows above the falls for the perfect photo opportunity.

Hilo feels like Old Hawaii. There are far fewer tourists here. It’s misty, rainforested, and has a gorgeous coast to explore.

You’ll find Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden just past mile marker 7 on Big Island’s wild Hamakua Coast north of Hilo. This is a great day out!

This 40-acre natural greenhouse is nestled right up against the coast for stunning ocean vistas.

It’s like a living classroom in a 20-acre valley.

You’ll find rain forest, gurgling streams, beautiful waterfalls, and more than 2,000 species of flowers and plants here. Don’t miss the outdoor orchid garden.

Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden is one of my very favorite places across all the Hawaiian islands. Enjoy!

Reader Interactions

November 8, 2023 at 6:33 am

Very helpful thank you!!! I’m so excited to take my family there for our first time.

November 8, 2023 at 6:50 am

wishing you the best trip ever!

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Oahu Travel Tips: START HERE If You’re Planning a Trip to Oahu

Oahu is by far the most visited Hawaiian Island. Home to Honolulu (the state’s capital) and Waikiki (Hawaii’s bustling tourist hub), there’s a LOT going on on Oahu. It’s easily the island with the most attractions and sites to tour, see, and do (even though every island has plenty to do) so information about how to have the best vacation on the island is in demand. 

I’ve got 30+ posts on Oahu on this site (not including the other islands or general Hawaii planning posts)…that’s a lot of info! To pull it all together in one place, this page is “home base” for all of my Oahu travel tips. 

Oahu Travel Tips

First things first…if there’s one post on my blog you’ve got to read it’s this one: Hawaii Travel Tips . It’s not island specific, but it covers things like which airports to fly into on each island, the scoop on illegal vacation rentals, rules about not touching wild animals that are federally protected in Hawaii, the unspoken rules for driving on the island, how to get along with locals, what to expect and MORE. It’s a whopper of a post (7000+ words) and it’s definitely one you don’t want to miss. Check it out here . 

Where to Stay on Oahu

This is where it all starts when you’re planning your trip. The big question is whether to stay in Waikiki or not. 

To be honest, I have a love-hate relationship with Waikiki. Mooooostly I just think there are a dozen better places to stay in Hawaii, but there are times when it can be fun. There are a lot of pros and cons for staying in Waikiki and staying somewhere else on the island though. 

My Favorite Boutique Hotels in Waikiki

If you’re set on staying in Waikiki (or want to read up on all of the reasons why you may love it), this post has my favorite boutique hotels in Waikiki. 

Where to Stay on Oahu Besides Waikiki

If you’re trying to avoid Waikiki, this post breaks down all of the other places to stay on the island. 

Where to Stay in Ko Olina

If you’re trying to settle on the best place to stay in Ko Olina, this post breaks down all of your options. 

Specific Hotel Reviews

The Laylow Waikiki

Disney’s Aulani Resort

More Posts about Disney’s Aulani Resort

Aulani Tips: Everything You Need to Know about Staying at Aulani

Is It Worth It to Stay at Aulani?

How Many Days to Stay at Aulani?

***Want to save major $$$ on your trip to Hawaii? I get asked ALL the time how I’m able to travel so often to Hawaii and stay at really nice resorts. Well, my favorite travel hack is cashing in points to score free airfare and free nights at some of Hawaii’s most high end resorts. Read my full guide on the exact system I use to max out credit card rewards here . Seriously, it’s going to save you soooo much money. 

5 Day Oahu Itinerary

The Best Oahu 5 Day Itinerary: I’ve noticed that people either seem to book their airfare and hotel first and then figure the rest out, or they want to lay out an itinerary and then decide how to book their flights (how long to stay) and where to stay. Either way, having a solid itinerary (even if it’s just a lot of built in relaxation time peppered with some activities) can make your vacation sooooo much better. Read that post here . 

Rentals Cars on Oahu

You absolutely will need a rental car. Hawaii is not an all-inclusive destination where you’ll arrive by shuttle and never leave your resort (I mean you could do that…but it’s pretty expensive just to get to Hawaii so most people want to actually see Hawaii. If you want a cheaper resort only vacation, just go to Mexico). 

Also, Oahu is a pretty large island. Throw in not the greatest roads and a lot of traffic there’s 1 million people on this island!) and it can take a while to get around. Oahu is the only island with any kind of reliable public transportation. The Bus and trolley system is pretty good for getting around Waikiki and ok for Honolulu, but if you’re wanting to venture much beyond the city (and you definitely should) you’re going to need a car. 

I always book through Discount Hawaii Car Rentals . They’re seriously the only company I ever use. They’ll give you the very best prices, you don’t have to reserve with a credit card or pay until you show up, you can cancel and re-book anytime if you find a better rate, and they usually have a special that adds additional drivers for no fee. It’s a no brainer. Click here to check rates for your trip.

And you can read more about the rental car situation in Hawaii here . 

Oahu Restaurant Recommendations

If you’re anything like me, your vacation probably revolves a bit around where you’re going to eat. Oahu has the best food scene of all the islands. Read up on some of my food recommendations:

Where Do Locals Eat in Waikiki? 40 Spots to Try That Aren’t the Cheesecake Factory ; ) 

The Best Restaurants in Ko Olina

If there’s one thing I get asked about more than pretty much anything else, it’s about luaus. So I’ve written a LOT about them. 

The Best Luaus on Oahu (and Which Ones to Avoid)

Paradise Cove Luau Review

Is the Polynesian Cultural Center “Worth It?” A Full Review

Paradise Cove vs Polynesian Cultural Center

Disney’s Ka Wa’a Luau Review

Things to Do on Oahu

One of the top questions I get asked is when the best time to book activities/tours/excursions is. Honestly, if there’s something you know you want to do for sure…you should book it as soon as you can. There’s no advantage to waiting until the last minute. You won’t find better deals and more than likely you’ll end up missing out because things sell out. In the post COVID landscape, so many activities and tours in Hawaii (luaus, snorkeling tours, ziplining, atv rides, even RESTAURANTS) are fully booked 2-4 months in advance. 

Jurassic Park in Hawaii : If you’ve ever watched any of the Jurassic Park movies with your jaw on the ground, you’re going to want to go to Kualoa Ranch. So many movies have been filmed there and it’s a visitor’s paradise with so many different tour options to choose from. 

Tips for Visiting Pearl Harbor : The lowdown on how to get tickets for the USS Arizona, how long you need, and more. 

Things to Do in Waikiki : Tons of options from classic Waikiki experiences to adventure activities to cultural and historical spots. 

Secret Things to Do on Oahu : Off the beaten path, hidden gems, etc. 

8 Easy Hikes on Oahu : Nothing illegal or “extremely dangerous” but all out of this world beautiful. 

Things to Do in Ko Olina : Fun in the sun on Oahu’s west side. 

Things to Do in Kailua & the Windward Coast : A full day on Oahu’s east side

Things to Do on Oahu’s North Shore : Plus recommendations on where to stay and where to eat. 

Best Spas on Oahu : For when you just need to chill for a bit. Recommendations for Waikiki, Turtle Bay, and Ko’olina. 

Shangri La & the Honolulu Museum of Art : My personal favorite “underrated” spot on Oahu. 

Reservations You Need to Make BEFORE Your Hawaii Trip

You’ve got your airfare, hotel, rental car and your big activities booked, so you should be good to go, right? Wrong!

Travel is BOOMING in Hawaii so a lot of state and national parks used the closure and reopening to institute reservation systems at some of the island’s most popular spots to make things a little more sustainable.

That means that there are now over half a dozen sites (beaches, trailheads, etc.) that require advance reservations. And some sell out well before you arrive on the island so you really need to have some sort of a plan.

I recently saw somebody in a Hawaii travel group post in a panic that they didn’t know they had to make reservations for things in advance…they thought they could just show up and “go with the flow.” I was tempted to say, well, “as long as the flow doesn’t take you somewhere that requires reservations, you can!” ; )

But I don’t want YOU to be that person, so I’ve pulled together a list of all the places you need to reserve entry in advance (plus all the details on booking windows, price, links, etc.) and a handful of popular tourist hotspots that book out really far in advance too.

Haleakala National Park (Maui)

To visit Haleakala National Park for sunrise at the summit, you must make reservations in advance here.

Reservations are required to enter the park gates between 3AM and 7AM (sunrise hours).

Online reservations are $1 per reservation/vehicle PLUS you’ll pay the park entrance fee of $30/vehicle when you arrive (National Park annual passes are also accepted at the gate).

The reservation booking window opens 60 days in advance at 7AM HST. There are also a limited number of tickets released two days before.

You can make one reservation every three days with the same account. So if you want to make reservations for back to back days (in case of weather/conditions), you’ll need to do so with separate accounts (email addresses).

If you can’t get reservations for sunrise, you can enter the park anytime after 7AM without reservations. The summit is spectacular during the day and you don’t need reservations for sunset.

I strongly recommend creating an account before and making sure you’re logged in at 7AM HST because it’s not uncommon for reservations to sell out quickly.

Waianapanapa State Park (Maui)

To visit Maui’s famous black sand beach at Waianapanapa State Park on the Road to Hana, you must make reservations in advance here.

Reservations are required to visit the beach and are distributed in windows from 7AM-10AM, 10AM-12:30PM, 12:30PM-3PM, and 3PM-6PM. And they are pretty strict about exiting by the end of your window time (you can arrive anytime within your window).

It’s $5/person to enter plus $10/vehicle to park and those fees are paid when you book your time slot.

Reservations open up 30 days in advance.

Iao Valley State Park (Maui)

To visit the lush, green mountains and hike at Iao Valley State Park, you must make reservations in advance here.

Reservations are offered for 90 minute time slots beginning at 7AM and ending at 6PM. They ask that you arrive within the first 30 minutes of your time slot.

Entry is $5/person plus $10/vehicle to park.

Diamond Head (Oahu)

To hike to the top of Waikiki’s famous Diamond Head, you must make reservations in advance here.

Reservations are offered in two hour increments beginning at 6AM (6AM-8AM, 8AM-10AM, etc.) and ending at 6PM. If you’re parking onsite, they ask that you arrive within the first 30 minutes of your reservation window.

Tip: I recommend booking one of the first two time slots because there isn’t much shade on this hike and it gets pretty hot.

Hanauma Bay (Oahu)

To snorkel at Oahu’s pristine Hanauma Bay, you must make reservations in advance here.

Entry times are staggered in 10 minute increments from 7AM to 1:20PM with roughly 1000 slots being assigned in advance every day.

Reservations can be made two days in advance and they open at 7AM HST. They’re usually gone in minutes (if not seconds).

If you’re unable to get an advanced reservation, you can try for a day of, walk in ticket. They open at 6:45AM and they only have a limited number available. Everyone in your group needs to be present when you purchase your tickets in person.

There are no reservations for parking and it’s first come, first serve. $3/vehicle.

It’s $25/person to snorkel at Hanauma Bay (12 and under, active military, and locals with HI ID are free).

The Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is open Wednesday through Sunday (CLOSED MONDAY AND TUESDAY) from 6:45AM-4PM. Last entry is at 1:30PM, the beach is cleared at 3:15PM and you have to leave the facility by 4PM.

Jellyfish patterns can also affect whether or not the bay is open so double check the day before/day of.

USS Arizona at Pearl Harbor (Oahu)

If you want to take the boat tour at Pearl Harbor out to the USS Arizona, it’s recommended to make advance reservations here.

Online reservations are guaranteed a specific boarding time to go out to the USS Arizona. If you’re unable to get an advance reservation, you can wait standby when you arrive. The line could be short (15 minutes or so) or long (hours) and it just depends on the day (if they’re having problems with the loading dock sometimes they don’t take many from the standby line) and the time of day.

Reservations are supposed to open up 60 days in advance, but keep an eye on your exact dates, because lately they’ve actually been opening up about 57ish days in advance???

They also release a small batch of tickets the day before.

The boat ride out to the USS Arizona is free, but it’s $1 to make the reservations online.

They recently started charging $7/vehicle for parking at Pearl Harbor.

Haena State Park / Kalalau Trail (Kauai)

If you want to hike Kauai’s famous Kalalau Trail, you must make advance reservations here. You’ve got three options here:

1) Parking & Entry: This is the most flexible option and also the most limited. THESE RESERVATIONS SELL OUT IN LESS THAN A MINUTE. There are three time slots available: 6:30AM-12:30PM, 12:30PM-5:30PM and 4:30PM to sunset. You can purchase multiple time slots if you want to stay longer. It’s $10/timeslot (parking) plus $5/person and you have to reserve every person when you initially book. Everybody has to arrive in the same car and your ID needs to match the reservation.

2) Shuttle & Entry: If you can’t get parking at the trailhead, there’s also a shuttle option. Shuttle reservations are $35/person (16+), $25/person (ages 4-15), 3 and under can ride free. The shuttle runs every 20 minutes 6:20AM to 6:40PM.

3) Entry Only: If you’re a Hawaiian resident (with HI ID) or someone WITH a Hawaiian resident, you can purchase entry only for $5/person with no advance reservations. Also, if you’re walking or biking to the trailhead you can do this option. But there is NOWHERE to park in the area to walk in. So this really only works for those with bikes or who are staying close enough to walk. They will tow your car if you park outside the designated areas.

The reservation window opens 30 days in advance at 12AM HST. The parking & entry option usually sells out in a minute, but the shuttle availability will last longer.

There are a TON of FAQs here including the possibility of snagging a canceled reservation.

Other Things to Book in Advance

Hawaii is a busy place these days! Besides the state and national parks above, here’s a handful of miscellaneous things you should make reservations for in advance (if they’re on your radar):

Mama’s Fish House (Maui) : The iconic spot is the most popular restaurant in Hawaii and dinner reservations usually start filling up about 6 months in advance (they open up bookings 18 months in advance). Make reservations through their website and if the dates you want are already booked, you can join a waitlist. Most people have pretty good success getting in on the waitlist (even if it’s for lunch).

Old Lahaina Luau (Maui) : Honestly, any luau you’re planning to attend you should book early, but most people are usually shocked how far out the Old Lahaina Luau books out. Book it as soon as you know your dates (I think they open at the six month window). They also have a waitlist.

Kualoa Ranch UTV Tour (Oahu) : Everybody loves Jurassic Park so getting to ride UTVs where they filmed the movies is very popular. The ranch offers a lot of different tours but the UTV tours usually book out a couple of months in advance.

Spa Reservations : If you’re staying at a resort with a spa (or planning on visiting one), don’t wait until you arrive to make your reservations. I’d make them at least a month in advance.

Tee Times : Same for golf, reserve your tee times well in advance.

Dining Reservations : Any “fancy” or resort restaurant is likely to be booked up these days so if you like having a nice dinner every night, make your plans in advance.

P.S. Thanks for sticking around and reading this whole post! If you have ANY questions about planning your trip to Hawaii, you can join my free Facebook group here . I’m there answering questions every day and there are 7500+ other friends who have a ton of Hawaii information to share!

Also, if you want to follow along on my travel adventures in real time, you can follow me on Instagram (@ caitylincoln ). My post captions are full of travel tips and I have a ton of story highlights and videos with great info. And please share my account with your friends that are headed to Hawaii! Your support really helps me keep this blog running!

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I’ve Lived in Hawaii Nearly All My Life — and These Are the Most Underrated Destinations in the Aloha State

From one of the only green-sand beaches in the world to the southernmost point in the U.S., these are the top places to visit in Hawaii, according to a local.

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Hawaii has beckoned tourists away from their daily routines to experience paradise for years. Nearly 10 million people made the trek to the archipelago last year, a destination with a population of around 1.5 million. The Hawaiian islands offer accessible natural beauty throughout the year — from the mountains (known as mauka ) to the sea (called makai ). Think sun-drenched beaches with warm water, waterfalls hidden in rain forests, and sand in hues of white, black, and red. Perhaps what makes Hawaii so special to visitors is the spirit of aloha — a warm hospitality not found anywhere else — and a rich cultural heritage dating back centuries. 

Hawaii is one of the most coveted destinations in the world, but travelers often merely scratch the surface of what the state has to offer. As someone who grew up in Honolulu — a popular tourist stop — and resides there currently, I see it all the time, but I don’t blame them. Tourism has been significant in Hawaii for so long, it seems like everything has been touched by visitors. It can be hard to distinguish what’s worth the crowds and early mornings (to beat traffic) and what’s truly Hawaiian or local. 

Hawaii is more than meets the eye, and there’s a transformative experience awaiting visitors who want to go beyond the beaten path. If you’re looking to experience the spiritual power of the Aloha State's natural beauty and history, or see where the locals like to go , here are 10 underrated places to visit in Hawaii.

Waialae Avenue, Kaimuki

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Located a short drive from Waikiki, Waialae Avenue is the artery of Honolulu’s quaint Kaimuki neighborhood. The stores, restaurants, and coffee shops lining the street pulsate with energy. If you’re looking to purchase locally crafted goods, Waialae Avenue has you covered. In fact, there’s an entire movement dedicated to supporting the small businesses of the area, known as Keep It Kaimuki . I’ll typically start my day with a shaken iced latte concocted with locally sourced coconut syrup from Bean About Town before hitting some of my favorite stores like Da Shop , which carries books from Hawaii-connected authors, and browsing the creations of local fashion designers at Ten Tomorrow .

Stargazing Along East Oahu

Hawaii Tourism Authority/Dana Edmunds

If the skies are clear, you should make time for a nighttime adventure. My suggestion is to drive east out of Honolulu and into Hawaii Kai. Take the windy Kalanianaole Highway (carefully) to the Halona Blowhole parking lot, or all the way past Sandy Beach Park and stop along the beach. Away from the city lights, the stars and moon glow brightly across the vast sky. Aside from the beautiful view, stars hold cultural significance to Hawaiians — for centuries, they’ve been used for storytelling, ceremonies, and wayfinding by voyagers.

Yokohama Bay

David Carr/Getty Images

People come to Hawaii for the beach , and while Waikiki may technically have one, it often feels too crowded to relax. For a true beach day, pack up some snacks and gear and head all the way west to Yokohama Bay. (Or, stop by Aloha Poke and grab a bowl of fresh rice and cubed ahi tuna to enjoy on the beach.) It’s the furthest west you can go on Oahu, and about a 1.-5-hour drive from Honolulu. Upon arriving, you'll be met with a wide stretch of golden sand that's surrounded by mountains. As long as there’s no northwest swell wrapping around the island, the turquoise waters are inviting. And since you’re facing the west, be sure to stay for the stunning sunset.

Lyon Arboretum

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The flora of Hawaii is part of the state's allure: vibrant flowers like the plumeria and hibiscus; big, green, Jurassic Park-like foliage; and tropical fruits like mangoes and papayas that flourish naturally. The islands' distinctive geography and diverse climates give rise to a rich array of plant life, including unique endemic species that are exclusive to Hawaii, like the spiky, silver ʻāhinahina. You can spend some time learning about Hawaii's flora by visiting Lyon Arboretum in Honolulu’s Manoa neighborhood. Comprising 194 acres and more than 6,000 taxa of tropical and subtropical plants, Lyon Arboretum is a research center at the University of Hawaii at Manoa and an outdoor museum of living plants with a mission to conserve Hawaii’s rare and native plants. Guests can meander the hiking trails or check out the botanical gardens on their own or with a guided tour.

Nakalele Blowhole

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The majestic power of Mother Nature can be seen throughout the islands, but Maui’s Nakalele Blowhole is one of the best places to witness that force up close. Getting to the blowhole, located on the northern part of the island, requires a windy and scenic drive along Honoapiʻilani Highway. The parking area offers a good vantage point for seeing the blowhole and its surrounding dramatic lava rock coastline — and humpback whales in the wintertime. The more adventurous can take a 20-minute hike down steep and rocky terrain to some tide pools, making sure to heed any warning signs along the way. Before embarking, make sure to check the tide is high; otherwise, there isn't enough water for the blowhole to erupt. If you’re lucky, there will be a local stand selling banana bread.

Petroglyphs at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Hawaii Tourism Authority/Tor Johnson

Perhaps one of the top attractions throughout the islands, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a dynamic, ever-changing landscape thanks to its active volcanoes. While the volcanoes may steal the show, there are other parts of the park that are worth visiting, too. One of those lesser-known spots is the Pu‘uloa Petroglyphs , with pu‘uloa meaning “long hill.” Considered a sacred place, this archaeological site has more than 23,000 petroglyph images, including geometric shapes, canoe sails, and other motifs representing the life of ancient Native Hawaiians. Visitors can take a short hike through a 500-year-old lava field and view the fragile petroglyphs from a boardwalk.

Wailua River State Park

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Nestled into the lush rain forests of the aptly named Garden Isle, the Iraivan Temple is remarkable for a few reasons: The South Asian temple design features ornate white granite intricately carved without power tools in Bangalore and India and assembled together on Kauai. Having the Hindu temple in Hawaii is also unique, as it gives visitors and locals a rare chance to experience Hindu philosophies. The backdrop of the Wailua River Valley, where an adjacent waterfall flows and there are many shades of green, adds to the tranquility. Visitors to the temple must book a reservation for personal meditation and worship. Once you've tapped into your serenity, spend some time in Wailua River State Park , less crowded than Waimea Canyon. The free state park is full of hiking trails to waterfalls and stunning views. For an immersive experience, take a two-mile river cruise filled with Hawaiian songs and stories by the family-owned Smith’s Kauai .

Hamakua Coast

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While the Kohala Coast gets lots of attention for its sunshine, pristine beaches, and array of resorts, the Hamakua Coast is Hawaii Island’s more rugged, verdant counterpart, with vibrant valleys and majestic waterfalls in a magical, rainy setting. Start your drive from Hilo via the Hamakua Heritage Corridor. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to stop at botanical gardens, waterfalls, and scenic outlooks. You’ll likely hit some crowds at the more popular spots like Rainbow Falls and Waipio Valley Lookout, but if it’s your first time to the island, these locations are still worth a visit. I recommend stopping for lunch and a tour at Hawaiian Vanilla Co. , a small, family-owned farm that offers vanilla-themed dishes and a tasting tour. The drive ends in the agricultural town of Waimea, and if you don't stop for lunch at the vanilla farm, grab a burger at Village Burger Waimea, where the beef is as fresh and local as possible.

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Hawaii Island offers travelers the chance to visit Ka Lae , the southernmost point in the U.S. Holding much cultural significance, Ka Lae (or “the point” in Hawaiian) is believed to be where the first Polynesian voyagers landed in Hawaii and one of the earliest settlements on the islands. Evidence of the ancient Hawaiians remains there to this day, including an ancient fishing shrine, marked by stone walls and a platform where fish was once prepared. To get there, drive to the end of South Point Road in Naʻalehu on Hawaii Island until you reach the 69 and 90 mile markers. You’ll be perched atop high cliffs where the ocean crashes below. Once you finish reveling in this sacred space, head over to Papakolea Beach, one of just four green-sand beaches in the world.

Hanalei Pier

Hanalei Pier is a must-visit spot on Kauai . Walk out onto the pier, where local kids like to jump off, and soak in the sweeping vistas of the bay, veiled in rain clouds and teeming with vibrant greenery. Hanalei is my favorite surf spot, where the cold river water meets the warm, salty sea. If you’re not experienced, you can always sit and watch people ride the waves, called heʻe nalu in Hawaiian. While in Hanalei, combine your visit with some responsible tourism and leave Hawaii better than when you arrived.

You can volunteer at the Waipā Foundation , a living learning center that perpetuates Hawaiian values and stewards more than 1,600 acres of land. Every fourth Saturday of the month, the public is welcomed to help take care of the land — whether reforesting native plants or restoring a fishpond — in an action called malama 'aina .

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Top Things to do in Honolulu, Hawaii

Honolulu, Hawaii , is probably the island state's most famous city, renowned for its natural beauty and status as a hub of commerce. From 2023 to 2025, it features not only as a port of call in 12 Norwegian Cruise Line cruises but also as the main point of exploration in three cruisetours, which allow you to enjoy a longer and more immersive period in Hawaii's capital. There are plenty of things to see and do there, so we thought some guidance could be helpful. To that end, here are four of the top things to do when you're in Honolulu, Hawaii.

Ready to start planning? Explore all Honolulu cruises .

Visit Pearl Harbor

On Dec. 7, 1941, Pearl Harbor was the site of a devastating aerial attack that would launch the United States into World War II. Today, it remains an active military base but is also a National Historic Landmark as well as the site of the Pearl Harbor National Memorial.

The Pearl Harbor National Memorial combines the USS Arizona, USS Oklahoma, and USS Utah Memorials, which commemorate the lives lost on each of the naval battleships during the attack. Nearby are additional attractions: the USS Missouri Memorial, the USS Bowfin Museum, and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum. Altogether, Pearl Harbor serves as a one-stop education in one of the most important events in American and world history.

According to Pearl Harbor Historic Sites, you should plan to make a whole day of your visit if you want to enjoy the best experience. If you'd like to streamline your visit, consider our Pearl Harbor & Honolulu City, Pearl Harbor & USS Missouri, or Early Bird Pearl Harbor shore excursions.

Take in the North Shore

Lovers of beaches and water sports may want to head to Honolulu's North Shore, an extensive coastal area that comprises 51 beaches. As the North Shore Chamber of Commerce will tell you, this part of Hawaii is renowned for its beaches, bays, and surfing. From October to April, the swells can reach more than 30 feet, making the area an ideal host site for surfing competitions such as the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing and Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational.

The North Shore isn't just for surfers, either. Areas such as the Waimea Valley Trail, which leads to the 45-foot Waimea Falls, make it a terrific destination for hikers while the fauna in places such as Laniakea Beach and Shark's Cove means it's an attractive stop for wildlife enthusiasts as well.

If you do decide to visit the North Shore during your day at port, you may be interested to know that we have a shore excursion for that, too.

Check Out Bishop Museum

Bishop Museum is considered one of the finest showcases of Polynesian culture. It was founded in 1889 to display Hawaiian artifacts and royal family heirlooms belonging to Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop, but the museum's scope would later expand to include other items of cultural significance as well as specimens of natural history.

Within Bishop Museum, you'll find exhibitions such as Hawaiian Hall, a three-story exhibition that centers on subjects such as the Hawaiian gods and key historical events, and the J. Watumull Planetarium, an astronomy facility featuring a 50-foot full-dome theater. The museum also cycles through a variety of temporary exhibitions in areas such as art and interactive play.

Step Into the Past at 'Iolani Palace

'Iolani Palace, which also dates back to the 1880s, is a registered National Historic Landmark and the erstwhile home of Hawaii's last monarchs. As such, it's the only official state royal residence in the United States of America.

You have a wide range of tour options at 'Iolani Palace, including docent-led tours and self-guided audio tours. There are also specialty tours that center on specific themes. For example, the Kalākaua Legacy Tour delves into the life and legacy of Hawaii's last king, and the Fashion Fit for Royalty Tour showcases the wardrobes and jewelry of the royal family. Most of the tours follow a weekly schedule, but the docent-led tours (available on Wednesdays and Thursdays) require reservations.

RELATED CRUISES: 14-Day South Pacific From Honolulu to Papeete: Kauai, Maui & Moorea 14-Day South Pacific from Honolulu to Papeete: Bora Bora, Kauai, Kona & Maui 19-Day Hawaii from Vancouver to Honolulu: Ketchikan & Kauai

Plan Your Honolulu Adventure

We hope the recommendations provided here help you appreciate the immensity of Honolulu's natural beauty and the breadth of its cultural offerings. We hope, too, that you look into our Free at Sea deals to advantage of offers such as free excursions, free specialty dining, and open bars. If you'd like, you can sign up for our digital newsletter to get additional deals sent directly to your email.

Easy Ways to Get from Honolulu Airport to Waikiki

Trying to figure out your plans for oahu but aren’t completely sure what way you want to get to waikiki here are some tips on getting from honolulu airport to waikiki stress-free..

Are you planning a trip to Waikiki and need help getting from the airport to your resort?

Waikiki is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Oahu for activities such as snorkeling, swimming, and other activities centered around nature. With so much to do in Waikiki , it’s important to have a plan for getting there.

Scroll through our comprehensive guide to all the different transportation options between Honolulu International Airport and your resort in Waikiki. You’re sure to find the perfect way for you and your group to travel!

Keep reading to learn about some of the ways you can travel hassle-free from the Honolulu Airport to Waikiki!

Find out my top Honolulu Airport tips HERE !

Popular Oahu Tours/Activities

• Kualoa Ranch UTV Tour (this is a fun adventure with the prettiest views)
• Full Pearl Harbor Tour (this is the BEST way to do everything at Pearl Harbor)
• Hawaii Bucket List Tour (you get to pick where you stop on this custom Oahu circle island tour)
• Toa Luau (this is my all-time favorite Oahu luau)
• CLIMB Works Ziplining (this is the longest zipline on Oahu)
• Book a Photo Shoot (this is a Hawaii souvenir you’ll treasure forever)

Favorite Oahu Resorts/Hotels

• Hilton Hawaiian Village (this is our favorite Waikiki resort because of the amazing pool area and nearby restaurants)
• Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa (this is a splurge that is totally worth it)
• Royal Hawaiian Hotel (this is a luxury resort in Waikiki that is pink and gorgeous)

Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Oahu itinerary complete with daily schedules, fun activities, and travel hacks? Click the button below.

Getting from honolulu airport to waikiki by shuttle service.

While considering the best way to travel from airports to their resort or vacation rental , many choose shuttles for their convenience, especially if they’re traveling with a decent amount of luggage. If you’re looking to shuttle from HNL to Waikiki, you have many options!

Fly Shuttle is considered by many to be a premium shuttling service. They provide both one-way and round-trip, starting at a very reasonable price of $17.80 for a one-way ride to almost any resort or hotel in Waikiki.

They offer air-conditioned vehicles, assistance with any luggage, complimentary bottles of water, and service at any time of the day! Check the latest rates and availability .

SpeediShuttle is also an amazing, high-quality option that even offers you the opportunity to book a lei greeting! Starting at $16 per person for a one-way trip, they offer discounts for a round-trip and assistance with your luggage.

Jet-A-Limo is perfect if you’re looking for a private option for larger groups. Although it can be quite costly, charging from $50 to $150 for a one-way ride, it’s the perfect way to show up in style!

Go Waikiki Shuttle is an amazing shuttle for those who wish to shuttle privately that charges a flat rate of $150, increasing at $25 per person. They also offer traditional airport lei greetings at a reasonable rate of $13 per person.

Go Waikiki Shuttle is highly focused on providing you with a safe and personalized experience, so you can worry less about things like flight complications – thanks to the privatized nature of their shuttle, they’ll always make sure you get to your hotel safely!

Personalized Airport Shuttle Service

If you’re looking for a shuttle service that will completely alleviate the stress of planning and timing, consider booking a personalized private airport shuttle service focused on servicing only you! They provide a stress-free and amazing way to start your vacation.

One of the best personalized shuttle services is the Honolulu Airport Shuttle to Waikiki . You’ll be picked up in a luxurious limousine that can fit up to 7 people and 4 pieces of luggage, which makes it perfect for families!

Although the prices can be quite reasonably high, starting at $110 for a one-way trip, it’s absolutely worth it for you and your group to show up in style!  Check the latest rates and availability .

Another option is VIP Shuttle , which offers not only a high-quality personalized service in an amazing luxury vehicle but also a meet and greet upon arrival as well as some of the most reasonable prices you’ll find!

VIP Shuttle greets you not at the pick-up zone but greets you at the baggage claim, where they’ll assist you with your luggage and navigate you through the rest of the airport! Check out the latest prices and more details , or book as a group to get a discount!

If you’re concerned about wasting too much money or are simply budget-minded, consider Aloha Waikiki Shuttle , which offers you a personalized and high-quality experience at only $10 per person, making it extremely affordable!

Finally, as someone who’s had good experience with Fly Shuttle , I’d highly recommend their private luxury car rides, beginning at $100 per person!

Getting from Honolulu Airport to Waikiki by RideShare

Ride-sharing is yet another commonly used traveling tool, though many are surprised that it’s so accessible in Hawaii. 

The Honolulu International Airport has three rideshare pick-up zones. Pickup Location 1 is outside the lobby, near the Terminal 1 pickup garage. Pickup Location 2 is near Terminal 2 outside of Lobby 5. Pickup Location 3 is outside of Terminal 8 on Level 2.

Whether you’re using Uber or Lyft, be sure to thoroughly coordinate with your driver to make sure you meet at the same pick-up zone! After that, they will assist you with your luggage and get you stress-free to your hotel!

Getting From Honolulu Airport to Waikiki by Taxi

Calling a taxi is probably one of the most convenient and commonly used ways to get from Honolulu Airport to Waikiki, but it can become a hassle if you arrive during more busy hours of the day, as you may have to wait for your taxi.

Some of the most popular taxi companies in the area are Charley’s Taxi and JohnnyCab , both of which are relatively inexpensive and offer consistent and flat rates of transportation, which is especially perfect for large groups.

Generally, a taxi ride from the Honolulu International Airport to Waikiki takes roughly 15 minutes and will cost $30 to $50.

Getting From Honolulu Airport to Waikiki by Bus

While the prospect of bussing from Honolulu International Airport to Waikiki may seem overwhelming, it’s definitely perfect for smaller groups, and you’ll often be assisted with your luggage to prevent any huge inconveniences.

Staying on Oahu makes traveling from place to place on the bus very plausible, which is a sharp difference from islands such as Maui and Kauai. The huge number of bus stops scattered around the island guarantees that you’ll be able to get to your resort with no trouble!

One of the best ways to plan out bus routes without extra stress is by using the app TheBus , which gives you the fastest bus routes possible from the airport to Waikiki and a step-by-step guide on the process.

Be prepared to pay a small bus fee, although children under five travel for free, and luggage assistance is also free. 

Getting From Honolulu Airport to Waikiki by Rental Car

The Honolulu International Airport has a huge number of on-site rental car options such as Enterprise, National, Budget, Hertz, Advantage, and Avis, making it easy and convenient to rent a car to drive to your hotel!

The best option for car rentals in Hawaii is definitely Discount Hawaii Car Rental , which is perfect for both budget-minded tourists and those hoping for a high-quality experience.

They have a huge number of high-quality brands such as Avid, Payless, Enterprise, and much more! Check out the latest prices and most details . 

Renting a car in Hawaii would definitely be my first choice because it makes the rest of your trip so much easier, reducing the stress and logistics of planning your itinerary around bus or shuttle times. 

This is an especially convenient option if you’re traveling to Waikiki with kids , as you won’t have to worry about them and the stress of taking a bus or shuttle simultaneously.

Renting a car is definitely one of the simplest ways to start your Waikiki vacation!

Where to Stay in Waikiki

Now that you know how to get from the Honolulu International Airport to your place of residency, you may be wondering what the best place to stay in Waikiki is. Here are some of the best options available!

HILTON HAWAIIAN VILLAGE

Hilton Hawaiian Village is one of the most high-quality, luxury resorts in the world! With beautiful views of the ocean shoreside, amazing mountains, and astounding amenities such as immense spa days, quality dining and restaurants, and beautiful pools! Check out the latest prices and more details . 

RAMADA PLAZA BY WYNDHAM WAIKIKI

Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Waikiki is an amazing, budget-friendly option that anyone will enjoy! It’s one of the most convenient options on this list with easy access to a huge amount of attractions, the most notable of which is Kahanamoku Beach. Check out the latest prices and more details .

SHERATON WAIKIKI

Sheraton Waikiki is the perfect mix between a resort and a budget-friendly option, which amenities such as private beach access, outdoor pools, and beautiful views of nearby landscapes. Check out the latest prices and more details . 

Choosing a resort that’s the best for you is the best way to have an amazing time at Waikiki! Whether you’re traveling with your family and looking forward to a good pool day or traveling with your partner and hoping for some romantic experiences, resorts are some of the best ways to have stress-free fun!

Downtown Honolulu to Waikiki FAQs

Waikiki is such a popular tourist location for a lot of reasons. Many consider it to be the perfect combination between a “tourist-y” town with resorts and man-made attractions with access to many beautiful natural landmarks. The most famous of these landmarks is Waikiki Beach, which is considered by many to be the best beach on Hawaii.

Waikiki has a huge variety of activities. The most popular of which is definitely visiting Waikiki Beach, touring the Diamond Head Crater, visiting the Honolulu Zoo and Waikiki Aquarium, and going snorkeling!

Absolutely! I’d generally recommend renting a car for anyone planning on a trip to Hawaii simply because of how much convenience and ease it provides you! It’s definitely worth the money and saves you a lot of time. The only exception is if you aren’t planning on leaving Waikiki.

More Waikiki Travel Resources

Waikiki has an immense amount of amazing activities and traveling resources that’ll make your vacation unadulterated and pure fun! While you’re at Waikiki, be sure to check out the stunningly idyllic Waikiki Beach and have a beach day filled with fun water activities!

Also be sure to check out activities such as the Honolulu Zoo and the Waikiki Aquarium, both of which are easily accessible even if you aren’t renting a car. You can always use resources such as rideshares or the Waikiki Trolley .

Whether you’d like to have self-guided experiences or guided tours through the natural attractions that surround Waikiki, enjoy shopping experiences and man-made attractions, or even go island hopping to other islands , you’ll have an amazing time at Waikiki!

Looking for more Oahu Travel Resources? Find out the best cheap Waikiki restaurants , the most romantic Oahu hotels , how to get around Oahu without a car , where to find Waikiki parking , and the best things to do in Waikiki !

The post Easy Ways to Get from Honolulu Airport to Waikiki appeared first on Hawaii Travel Spot .

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What It's Like to Fly in the Leihōkū Suites, Hawaiian Airlines' New Business Class Cabin

By Madison Flager

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Last week, Hawaiian Airlines held the inaugural flights aboard its first Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner plane, a moment six years in the making. The plane was named “Kapuahi” after a star that holds cultural and navigational significance to the Polynesian wayfinders, some of the first people to make this voyage across the Pacific.

The inaugural Dreamliner flights departed from Honolulu for San Francisco , then returned the next day. For the next month or so, Kapuahi will fly between the Bay Area and Hawaii's capital once a day before adding routes to Los Angeles and Phoenix . By the end of this year, the carrier is scheduled to add two more Dreamliners to its fleet.

I flew on Hawaiian's second Dreamliner flight from SFO to HNL and there was much to celebrate as passengers and employees ushered in the airline's new flagship aircraft; live Hawaiian music and hula welcomed us at the gate, and leis were handed out as we boarded. But it's what's inside the plane that will make the biggest difference for travelers, thanks to the completely redesigned cabins and brand-new business class product, the Leihōkū Suites.

Below, details of Hawaiian's new premium economy and business class products, as well as Apartment 1929, the airline's exclusive lounge you'll want to gain access to for one last taste of the islands before leaving paradise.

In Apartment 1929, you can squeeze in a little more time outdoors before boarding your flight home.

The airport experience

For a hands-off, curb-to-airport-door experience , travelers can now purchase Hawaiian Airlines' new Premium Airport Service at the Honolulu airport. This service starts at $500 for two people; travelers can call or email the airline directly to book the service , which is not included in any ticket class.

For departures, this starts with a handler greeting you at the terminal or rental car facility. They will then carry your bags, expedite you through security (it's even faster than Clear or TSA PreCheck ), and escort you to Apartment 1929, the exclusive new lounge only available to Premium Airport Service customers.

Capped at just 24 guests, the indoor-outdoor space feels like the oversized living room of a very well-to-do friend. As soon as the door shuts, the airport chatter is silenced and the smell of gardenia hits your nose—impressive on its own—but even more so when you round the corner and see the well-decorated lounge and grassy exterior space that lets you sneak in one last ray of sunshine before boarding your flight.

Apartment 1929 guests enjoy a three-course meal (a concierge emailed me about a week in advance to take my order), and drinks are on offer from a beverage menu curated by Bar Leather Apron , a cocktail bar in Honolulu. When you're ready to board (with the option to be the first on the aircraft), you'll be driven on a golf cart over to the gate.

Just next to Apartment 1929 is Hawaiian Airlines' more classic Plumeria Lounge , reserved for Business Class guests, East Coast First Class guests, and Pualani Platinums flying internationally. A level below is the Premier Club , which is open more widely to North America and Neighbor Island First Class guests, Pualani Gold & Platinum Elites, and Premier Club members.

Hawaiian Airlines' new Dreamliner planes feature 34 Leihōkū Suites.

Onboard comforts

On the way to Honolulu , I was seated in the first row of the premium economy, or Extra Comfort, cabin. I had more than enough leg room, especially as I was in a bulkhead seat. While this meant I had to store my personal item for takeoff and landing, I still had access to a pull-up entertainment system and fold-out table for meals. The seats were comfortable, and the extra-large windows helped the space feel a little more open than on older or smaller planes. If you're considering upgrading from the Main Cabin, but not all the way to Business Class, I'd say it's absolutely worth it for any flights over, say, four hours, to give yourself some extra breathing room.

Harrison Pierce

María Casbas

CNT Editors

On the return flight, I experienced the highly-anticipated Leihōkū Suites. There are 34 of these lie-flat seats onboard, making it the largest business class cabin in Hawaiian's fleet and the first to have sliding doors, allowing for a nice level of privacy. The suites, set up in a 1-2-1 configuration, with the option to combine the middle two for companions or families, offer plenty of space to spread out and get comfortable—I'm 5'6" and had a good half a foot of extra leg room when the seat was fully extended. A pillow and blanket was provided, though no pajamas. (Of note when booking the Leihōkū Suites: Hawaiian has historically referred to its front cabin as first class on domestic flights and as business class on international flights.)

The 18" entertainment system is loaded up with new release movies, rewatch-favorite TV shows like Friends and Gilmore Girls, popular current shows like Abbott Elementary , and Hawaii-made music videos and documentaries on Hana Hou! TV. Along with personal charging outlets, a wireless cell phone charging station is conveniently placed next to the headrest.

Throughout the plane, those large windows are configured to different lighting modes throughout the flight, meant to delineate between dining, sleeping, and wake-up times. (Early in the flight these can be adjusted individually by the person in the window seat, but at some point a central programming takes over.)

Onboard WiFi is not yet enabled, unfortunately, though the hope is to get it up and running by the end of the year or early next. Hawaiian Airlines is in the process of rolling out Starlink internet across its A231 and A330 planes first.

Dreamliner design

In designing the plane's interiors, executive vice president and chief marketing officer Avi Mannis says the brand channeled on-the-ground hospitality spaces, particularly new hotel design in Hawaii , and aimed to evoke a sense of place. Following suit with much of Hawaiian design, the plane tells a story, Mannis says: one of Polynesian wayfinding, or navigation. Fiber optics in the ceiling simulate a starry night, wood-like slats in the airplane's entryway are inspired by canoes, and boxy, geometric silhouettes are softened to present a wave-like feel throughout the plane.

It is in fact a beautiful aircraft. When I first boarded, my eyes were immediately drawn to the dome in the entryway; it's a standard feature on 737s, but in this one, there are leaf designs etched into it.

In between attempts to snooze, take a look around at your surroundings: When not in night mode, the simulated cabin sky depicts soft daylight or soothing sunrises and sunsets. Different lavatories feature different patterned wallpapers (and excellent-smelling coconut hand soap), and the light-up bathroom icons were custom-made to include a Hawaiian shirt and dress. These small, thoughtful details aren't necessary, but they do add some fun and whimsy to the start (or end) of your vacation.

In the 79 Extra Comfort seats, travelers can enjoy early boarding, extra leg room, and AC power outlets.

In-flight dining

The airline's in-flight meal program is run by husband-and-wife duo Michelle Karr-Ueoka and Wade Ueoka of Honolulu's M-W Restaurant . The chef couple works with other Hawaiian-based restaurants and chefs to develop menus on a rotating basis; when I flew, Jason Yamaguchi's menu included a delicious curried braised brisket, papaya salad, and warm taro roll. Soon to join the Featured Chef club: Keaka Lee from Kapa Hale .

When seating in the Leihōkū Suites, I was offered a welcome drink of guava juice, a mai-tai from Kō Hana (an agricole rum distillery in the Honolulu area), or sparkling wine; meal service came with even more alcoholic and non-alcoholic options. In Extra Comfort, the meal was a chicken sausage, egg, and cheese breakfast sandwich; while less noteworthy than the full dinner on my return flight, it was still a solid meal—and free, a rare treat on domestic airlines these days.

Travelers heading to or from Honolulu via San Francisco can travel on the plane's daily service through May 14; a second 787-9 will begin dedicated service between Honolulu-Los Angeles on May 14 and Honolulu-Phoenix on May 15.

Back in 2018, the airline announced plans to purchase 10 Boeing 787-9 aircrafts; while the first was expected to go into service in 2021, pandemic and aircraft delays extended the timeframe. Over time, the airline plans to use some of the 300-seat 787s for long-haul routes from Hawaii to New York, Sydney, and Japan.

The takeaway

Hawaiian Airlines passengers are predominantly leisure travelers, so it's fitting that the team designed this plane, and the onboard experience, to feel like the start of your vacation rather than just the means to get there. Warm staff greetings, Hawaiian music playing in some of the bathrooms, the starry night sky, and the plane's general ambiance help achieve that goal, while the Leihōkū Suites offer an especially luxurious way to kick off or close out your trip.

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