Oahu tends to get a bad rap amongst tourists because it is seen as a more crowded version of the other Hawaiian Islands. However, part of the reason it has so many people is because there is so much to do. I’ve been lucky enough to call this island home for over a year now and am still discovering new places. From lush green mountains to the brilliant blue ocean, it’s endlessly beautiful and heaven for nature lovers.
If it’s your first time to Oahu, here is my list of must-do activities.
Note: The majority of visitors stay in Waikiki so I’ve geared this list towards that although I highly recommend renting a car and exploring the rest of the island for the best experience. If you’re under 25 check out Hui, Turo, or Zipcar for rental options.
Hike to the top of Diamond Head
Diamond Head crater is one of the most iconic landmarks on Oahu. The hike is fairly short and easy at 1.6 miles roundtrip. Once you’re at the top, you can enjoy views of the island spanning from Koko Head on the east side all the way to the Wai’anae mountain range on the west side. It’s best to go at either sunrise or sunset; it gets very hot in the middle of the day and there is no shade on the trail.
Online reservations are required for non-Hawaii residents; you can make them here. It costs $5 per person and an extra $10 to park a car.
Surf at Canoes
The most popular surf spot on Oahu is Canoes surf break in Waikiki. It’s especially good for beginners because of the slow, small, consistent waves. It also offers a postcard-perfect view of Diamond Head. To get there, head straight out from the Duke statue in the middle of the Waikiki beach walk; surfers are out there at all times of the day so you shouldn’t miss it.
If you’ve never surfed before, I highly recommend taking a lesson to learn the basics. If you just need to rent a board, Moku has the best hourly and daily rates; it’s situated one block back from the beach on the corner of Uluniu and Koa Ave.
Spend a day on the North Shore
It’s only 45 minutes away but Oahu’s North Shore feels like a whole different world compared to the excitement of Waikiki. Known for big waves and serene beaches, life up north moves a bit slower. It’s very relaxed and locals often walk around without shoes or a shirt. The main town, Haleiwa, is a charming, laid-back beach town full of surf shops, boutiques, and art galleries. If you’re searching for a new swimsuit or piece of island art to take home, look no further.
About 20 minutes from Haleiwa is one of my favorite beaches, Waimea Bay. While it is more crowded than other spots on the North Shore, its sparkling waters are popular for a good reason. During the summer, the waves are flat, making it perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and boating. There’s also a 30-foot rock that is popular for cliff jumping BUT only if the waters are calm; talk to locals about the conditions first. In the winter months, Waimea is not swimmable, but you can enjoy watching surfers take on waves as high as 50 feet. Every few years when the conditions are just right, the Eddie Aiku Big Wave Invitational, Oahu’s biggest surf competition, is held there.
Visit Waimanalo Beach
Waimanalo is another one of Oahu’s best beaches. Known for glistening white sands, swirling turquoise waters, and a view of the Ko’olau mountains, it’s paradise. The low surf makes it swimmable year-round.
Getting there from Waikiki takes about 35 minutes; I recommend driving the coastal route along the Kalanianaole Highway (take H1 east until it ends and then keep going straight). With mountains on one side and the ocean on the other, it’s absolutely beautiful. On a sunny day, the water is ridiculously blue. There are plenty of scenic viewpoints to stop and take pictures. One of the most famous is Halona Blowhole—a geological phenomenon where water shoots through lava rocks and creates a blowhole effect. Depending on the tides and surf, the water can reach up to 30 feet.
If you’re up for something more active, stop at the Makapu’u Lighthouse trail. It’s an easy two-mile out and back walk up a paved path. There are several lookout points, and if you’re there between November and March, it’s a great spot for whale watching.
Take a Boat Cruise in Waikiki
No trip to Oahu is complete without a sunset sail around the south shore. Sit back and relax with a Mai Tai in your hand and enjoy picturesque views of Diamond Head, Waikiki, and of course, the sunset. If you’re lucky, you might see marine life including sea turtles, dolphins, and in the winter months, whales. There are also daytime cruises, which are usually cheaper and less crowded. Depending on which company you go with, you might even be able to swim or snorkel from the boat.
Sunset cruises are very popular and frequently sell out, so I highly recommend booking at least a week in advance. The boats often leave from the beach, so wear something you don’t mind getting wet.
A few other things to know:
- You want to be respectful of the locals and the land; pay attention to signs posted, especially when it comes to burial grounds or other sacred areas.
- Wear reef-safe sunscreen in the ocean, and while the marine life is beautiful to look at, make sure you don’t touch it.
- Do your part to keep the oceans and beaches clean, and take your trash with you when you leave.
- Shop local as much as possible! I’m working on a list of the best local businesses to support, so stay tuned for that.
I know I already said it, but seriously, rent a car. Even if it’s just for a day. It will make such a difference in what you can see and do on this island.
Hawaii truly is a magical place, and I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!
