Things to do in Oahu

Find and book activities, attractions and tours
Makiki - Lower Punchbowl - Tantalus featuring a sunset, wildflowers and a city

Oahu Attractions

When rest and relaxation are in order, there is perhaps no better place to visit than Oahu. The clock always reads island time in this Hawaiian destination, and there are plenty of ways to forget about your worries back home. Things to do in Oahu include the cultural and the athletic. Naturally, you can always soak up some Vitamin D while you’re on the island, too. From the vibrant crowds on Waikiki Beach to the reinvigorating solitude afforded by inland jungle landscape, Oahu has something for everyone.


Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.

Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.

One Key members save 10% or more on select activities, hotels, cars and vacation rentals.


Most popular activities in Oahu

Air, helicopter & balloon tours

See all 19 activitiesOpens in new tab

What to do in Oahu

Free Things to Do in Oahu

Vacationing on a tight budget in Oahu? Spend time, not your paycheck, on fantastic experiences.

Hawaii Loves Barbie Dolls Museum - Chat to the friendly staff or curator and discover more about the collections on exhibit here.

Wahiawa Freshwater State Recreation Area - Loosen up and add a bit of excitement to your vacation here.

Puuomahuka Heiau - Amble around this historic attraction and find out a couple of secrets from long ago.

Mokolii Island - Find a nice spot to sit and enjoy the tranquility that comes with being around water.

Chinatown Markets - Well known among local residents, this place is worth a look.

Koolaus Mountains - You're certain to feel connected with Mother Nature at this beautiful spot.

Kahana Bay Beach Park - Grab your picnic blanket, pack some snacks and find a shady spot to appreciate Mother Nature.

Areas & Neighborhoods on Oahu

People often think of white ribbons of sand when they imagine a trip to Hawaii, and you will encounter no shortage of coastline on a vacation to Oahu. Still, if it’s lush landscape or busy city streets you’re after: The island still delivers. The neighborhoods and cities in Oahu are diverse and exciting.

Honolulu — As the capital of Hawaii, Honolulu is a hub for business and entertainment. Naturally, this means some of the best things to do in Oahu, Hawaii make their homes here. Downtown Honolulu and Chinatown are particularly popular among visitors, and Waikiki Beach offers a place to get sand in between your toes.

Windward Coast — The Windward Coast region of Oahu is on the southwest side of the island, just a short drive from Honolulu. Visit sites like the Makapuu Point Lighthouse and Nuuanu Pali Lookout while you’re in the area.

Leeward Coast — Situated on the western side of the island, the Leeward Coast is at the base of the Waianae Mountains. The climate here is notably drier than other parts of Oahu, and the region has far less tourism than the Windward side. Visit the Leeward Coast for a secluded surfing excursion or quiet beach day.

North Shore — People-wise, the North Shore is also quite tame when compared to the hustle and bustle of Honolulu. This side of the island is deal for snorkeling, hiking to waterfalls, and strolling through charming beach villages, not to mention the famous big wave surfing opportunities here.

Things to See in Oahu

Before you step into your hiking boots or swim fins, there are lots of things to see in Oahu, not the least of which are the spectacular views. Grab your best camera and head to spots like Diamond Head Crater and Puu Ualakaa State Park for a chance to take a frame-worthy snapshot. Of course, you can also be entertained on the island. Oahu activities like luaus put you front and center with dancers and other performers. You can also take in a refined performance at the Oahu Ballet or one of the island’s many theaters.

Sightseeing in Oahu

Oahu offers lots of opportunities for adventure by both land and sea. If you want to keep your feet dry, head to Leahi (Diamond Head) or the Waimea Valley for a day hike. Not only will you burn some calories, but you can enjoy wonderful views and take in the diverse terrain. When it comes to water activities on Oahu, adventures range from body boarding at Hanauma Bay to outrigger canoe rides at Waikiki. Guided Oahu tours let you see different parts of the island in the same day without getting lost.

Things to Do in Oahu with Kids

There are lots of amazing experiences in Oahu that the whole gang will get a buzz out of. These are a few of the most popular family friendly experiences in the area.


 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Oahu? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 


 

Frequently asked questions

What to do in Oahu on a sunny day?
Take advantage of the nice weather (and get some fresh air while you’re at it) with one or two of these fun activities:


What to do in Oahu on a rainy day?
There’s no need to splish and splash your way through a rainy day when there are so many excellent indoor activities like these to try:


What is Oahu famous for?
Get set to be busy with all of these renowned attractions to check off your to-do list:

  • Diamond Head
  • USS Arizona Memorial
  • University of Hawaii at Manoa
  • Aloha Tower

What should I not miss in Oahu?
If you want to discover the best of this destination, find time for these attractions in your itinerary:

  • Ala Moana Center
  • Kailua Beach
  • Honolulu Zoo
  • Lanikai Beach

Are there cheap things to do in Oahu?
If you’re on a strict budget, you may like to add these low-cost experiences to your schedule:


What can you do in Oahu for free?
You could store your wallet in the hotel safe for the day, because these fabulous attractions won’t cost you a penny:

  • USS Arizona Memorial
  • University of Hawaii at Manoa
  • Aloha Tower
  • Ala Moana Center


Discover the most popular places to visit in Oahu

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Oahu

Waikiki featuring landscape views, a sunset and a city

Waikiki

4.5/5(10,927 area reviews)

Located on the south shore of Honolulu, this neighborhood is known internationally for its great surfing and beautiful beaches.

Waikiki
Diamond Head which includes a city, landscape views and a sunset

Diamond Head - Kapahulu - St. Louis

4.5/5(79 area reviews)

While visiting Diamond Head - Kapahulu - St. Louis, you might make a stop by sights like Waikiki Beach and Honolulu Zoo.

Diamond Head - Kapahulu - St. Louis
Ala Moana Beach Park showing surfing, a coastal town and tropical scenes

Ala Moana

4/5(233 area reviews)

If you're spending some time in Ala Moana, Ala Moana Center and Magic Island are top sights worth seeing.

Ala Moana
USS Arizona Memorial which includes a memorial

Western Honolulu

3/5(706 area reviews)

Known for its abundant dining options and waterfront views, there's plenty to explore in Western Honolulu. Top attractions like Pearl Harbor and Honolulu Harbor are major draws, and you can catch the metro at Hālawa / Aloha Stadium Station or Pouhala / Waipahu Transit Center Station to see more of the city.

Western Honolulu
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve featuring landscape views and general coastal views

Eastern Honolulu

5/5(5 area reviews)

The pristine beaches and ample dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Eastern Honolulu. A stop by Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve or Kahala Beach might round out your trip.

Eastern Honolulu
Downtown Honolulu which includes heritage architecture and a city

Downtown Honolulu

3.5/5(43 area reviews)

Many of Hawai’i’s most important historic sites and beautiful buildings are clustered together here at the hub of the city, with the ocean just a short walk away.

Downtown Honolulu

Popular day trips from Oahu