Welcome to Oahu, the crown jewel of Hawaii! Known for its pristine beaches, rich culture, and diverse range of activities, Oahu is a paradise for anyone seeking a perfect island getaway. From hiking to water sports, there are endless opportunities to explore and experience the beauty of this tropical oasis. In this post, we will showcase the best attractions and things to do in Oahu, providing you with a comprehensive guide to help you plan your next vacation. Get ready to immerse yourself in the aloha spirit and discover the wonders of Oahu!

The 17 Best Fun Activities For Adults In Oahu

1. Honolulu South Shore Tour
2. Honolulu City Lights and Dinner Tour
3. Your Private Specialty Tours
4. Honolulu Private E Bike Ride and Diamond Head Hike
5. Keiki Surfing Lessons for Kids
6. Kailua Twin Islands Guided Kayak Tour
7. Oahu 60 Minute Helicopter Tour Doors on or Off
8. Private E Scooter Tour of Waikiki and Kakaako Waterfront
9. Oahu North Shore and Hanauma Bay Adventure from Waikiki
10. Honolulu Oahu Sights and Bites Island Tour
11. Turtle Snorkel and Sailing Adventure Waikiki in 4 Hours
12. Go Oahu Card
13. From Honolulu Oahu Top Attractions Island Tour
14. Wet N Wild Admission and Waikiki Transportation
15. Oahu Best of Oahu Island Tour
16. Haleiwa Turtle Tour Eco Adventure
17. Oahu Legendary North Shore Loop Driving Tour

The 17 Best Fun Activities For Adults In Oahu

1. Honolulu South Shore Tour

Welcome to the beautiful South Shore of Oahu. This 3 hr tour will give you highlights of the best of Honolulu. From breathtaking views to historic sites, this is the best way to see highlights of Honolulu on a quick and easy tour. The tour starts with a pick up from your hotel and takes you along the golden coast to see Diamond Head lookout where you can see local surfers enjoying a session and a quick glimpse of Diamond Head lighthouse. The tour continues with a drive through one of the most lavish neighborhoods on the Island to get a glimpse of the mansions of the rich and famous. Next, you will get a bird’s eye view of the South Shore and Diamond Head. While on the tour, you will be transported to some of the best views on the Island, explore the most beautiful street art, and take in the rich history of the Island with our knowledgeable tour guide. Unlike other companies, the groups are kept small to create a more unique experience. Prepare for a fun and unforgettable experience on this Honolulu South Shore Tour.

2. Honolulu City Lights and Dinner Tour

Experience a unique fine dining experience on this Honolulu City Lights and Dinner Tour. Begin your evening at The Original Roy’s in Hawaii Kai with a 3-course dinner from an exclusive menu, before heading up to Tantalus Lookout to watch night fall over the city. Take in the panoramic views of Honolulu at night and enjoy the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. This tour includes the 3-course dinner, city lights viewpoint, and gratuities for drivers/guides. Treat yourself and your Ohana to a relaxing and delicious evening out on this tour.

3. Your Private Specialty Tours

See the Oahu you want to see with this private tour that can be personalized to match your interests. With the help of a private guide, plan your day around the attractions you want to visit or the activities you want to try out, and they will take care of the details. Transportation around the island of Oahu is included, and you can create your own itinerary to check out the attractions that interest you. Snorkeling gear and any parking fees are also included, ensuring a hassle-free experience. Hotel pickup and drop-off by private vehicle is provided for added convenience. Enjoy live commentary on board and take advantage of this unique opportunity to see Oahu on your own terms. Please note that City and County Beach Parks are not available on Sundays or Public Holidays. You can head directly to the meeting point or request pickup. Book now and personalize your Oahu experience!

4. Honolulu Private E Bike Ride and Diamond Head Hike

Explore Honolulu in a unique way by taking a guided e-bike tour and hike with an experienced guide. Discover the local history and hear interesting facts while cycling along the beach and hiking the famous Diamond Head crater. Admire the stunning views from the top of the crater, which is now requiring advance purchase of hiking tickets. Note that the tour includes a Diamond Head hiking ticket, the use of an electric bike, one bottle of water per rider, a helmet, and the option to enjoy shaved ice. Please be aware that this tour is not suitable for children under 15, people with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, or people over 70 years old. Book now for an unforgettable private tour experience.

5. Keiki Surfing Lessons for Kids

Looking for an exciting and enriching activity for your kids while in Oahu? Look no further than the Keiki Surfing Lessons for Kids! This two-hour surf lesson is suitable for children between 4 and 12 years old and is facilitated by professional, patient surf instructors. Your little ones will receive 1-on-1 instruction, allowing them to learn surfing tips and techniques at their own pace and get the greatest level of care. Lessons include 20 minutes of beach technique, including how to properly stand up on a surfboard, safety and etiquette instructions, followed by over an hour of open-ocean instruction. Relax as you watch your kids gain confidence and have a blast surfing with their instructor. As a memento of the experience, each child will leave with a Surfer Girl Academy original gift sticker. This is the perfect way to enhance your family’s time on Oahu and make unforgettable memories with your children.

6. Kailua Twin Islands Guided Kayak Tour

This guided kayak tour takes you to the breathtaking Kailua Twin Islands where you’ll get to explore secret secluded locations throughout the bay, perfect for snorkeling and discovering marine life. Led by certified lifeguards, you’ll learn positive interaction with local wildlife and collect marine plastics while being surrounded by the idyllic tropical paradise of Kailua Beach. Along the way, you’ll visit a sea-bird sanctuary and enjoy a spot of lunch with stunning views. Your local partner for this tour is a leader for sustainable tourism, ensuring eco-friendly practices throughout the day. Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity to see Kailua’s Turtle Feeding Grounds and marvel at the white sands of Kailua Beach.

7. Oahu 60 Minute Helicopter Tour Doors on or Off

Hop aboard a helicopter and admire Oahu’s landmarks on an exhilarating guided flight tour. This 60-minute tour allows you to choose whether to fly with the doors on or off to tailor your experience to your liking. Departing from Honolulu, witness the stunning aerial view of Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head as you soar into the sky. Admire the iconic Koʻolau Range, Kaneohe Bay, and the North Shore’s Banzai Pipeline, Chinaman’s Hat, and Waimea Bay among many others during this scenic tour. You will also have the opportunity to fly over the USS Arizona Memorial and Pearl Harbor, two significant historical landmarks in the area. Other highlights of the tour include visiting the McCully – Moiliili Honolulu CDP, Ka’a’awa Valley Oahu, and Dole Plantation before returning to Honolulu. Please note that this is for reference only and itineraries are subject to change. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to experience Oahu’s beauty from a unique perspective!

8. Private E Scooter Tour of Waikiki and Kakaako Waterfront

Experience the thrill of exploring Waikiki and Kakaako Waterfront on an E Scooter Tour. Your tour includes the use of a Cycleboard scooter, helmet, and a knowledgeable tour guide. Meet your guide at the Kakaako Waterfront Park parking lot, look for the Cloud 9 van and the Cycleboards. Your tour begins with a visit to the Kakaako Waterfront Park, where you’ll enjoy its stunning views for 20 minutes. Then, you’ll head to Kakaako and spend an hour exploring this district’s hidden gems. The tour includes several more stops that you’ll love, so come ready to have fun. Before booking, please note that those with serious medical conditions, leg or knee problems, and those under 16 years of age cannot participate. The tour is not wheelchair accessible. If you’d like to cancel your tour, you must do so at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time. Book your E Scooter tour today and explore Waikiki and Kakaako Waterfront like a local!

9. Oahu North Shore and Hanauma Bay Adventure from Waikiki

Enjoy a fun and relaxing day on Oahu with a sightseeing tour to the North Shore and along the Hanauma Bay coastline. See the famous Banzai Pipeline where pro-surfers ride the waves. Head to Waimea Bay Beach Park or Waimea Falls (optional) to hike and see some gorgeous waterfalls. This tour also lets you indulge in some local delights such as shaved ice, fresh fruits, a local shrimp plate and Dole Whip. You’ll get a chance to go sightseeing, hiking, kayaking, stand up paddle boarding and swimming. Choose between a shared group or private tour and enjoy pickup and drop-off at selected Waikiki hotels with a local tour guide. The tour includes a visit to the Dole Pineapple Plantation, lunch, Waimea Botanical Garden hike and Waimea Falls admission, and your choice of paddleboard or kayaking activity. Please note that the tour is not suitable for children under 5 years.

10. Honolulu Oahu Sights and Bites Island Tour

Discover the flavors and natural beauty of Oahu on a guided tour from Honolulu. This sightseeing tour will take you to famous lookouts and viewpoints, including the Diamond Head and Pali Lookouts, where you can marvel at the panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. Don’t miss the opportunity to try locally made Poi donuts from Kamehameha Bakery, taste locally-grown coffee, chocolates, and nuts at the Macadamia Nut Farm, and savor the included delicious lunch at a shrimp truck.

Explore the historic town of Haleiwa on Oahu’s North Shore, home to some of the island’s most famous surf spots. Keep an eye out for humpback whales and green sea turtles at the famous Halona Point blowhole and the Halona blowhole. With pickup from selected hotels, this tour offers a hassle-free way to experience the best of Oahu in one day.

11. Turtle Snorkel and Sailing Adventure Waikiki in 4 Hours

The Turtle Snorkel and Sailing Adventure Waikiki in 4 Hours is the perfect activity for those seeking nature’s beauty and adventure. This incredible tour allows you to cruise on a 48-passenger catamaran while observing turtles and, if you’re lucky enough to be there during the season, whales. Snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters and sailing on the stable catamaran is an experience to cherish.

The Gold Coast Catamaran has plenty of room on-board for a peaceful and comfortable ride. Enjoy the sound of the waves and the wind as you spray warm blue water from the ocean. There’s also no need to worry about getting hungry or thirsty because this tour provides you with lunch, unlimited non-alcoholic drinks, and two free bar beverages. Additionally, there are two restrooms and facilities for changing your clothes on-board.

The tour includes snorkeling equipment such as a mask, fins, and vest along with towels, sunscreen, and gratuities. So, prepare for a breathtaking adventure in the natural beauty of Waikiki with Turtle Snorkel and Sailing Adventure.

12. Go Oahu Card

Discover the beauty of Oahu with the Go Oahu Card. This all-inclusive pass is valid for the number of days you choose and comes with a digital guide that provides attraction information and reservation instructions. Transportation is included on selected attractions – just check the digital guide for details. Please note that food, drinks, and gratuities are not included.

Simply purchase your pass and save it on your mobile device for easy use. The pass serves as your ticket and grants you direct entry into the attractions. The meeting point is located in O‘ahu, Hawaii, USA, and the activity ends back at the meeting point. Opening hours vary depending on your chosen pass option – be sure to select your preferred option to see the hours.

With the Go Oahu Card, you can expect to visit top-rated attractions such as Oahu Best Tours, Ka Moana Luau, and 33 more stops. Confirmation will be received at the time of booking.

The premium attraction pass options for 3, 4, 5, and 7 days offer even more exciting possibilities to explore Oahu. Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity to experience the beauty of Oahu with the Go Oahu Card.

13. From Honolulu Oahu Top Attractions Island Tour

Discover all of Oahu’s top attractions in just one day with this guided tour from Honolulu. Avoid the hassle of driving yourself around the island and let the air-conditioned vehicle take you to famous landmarks and scenic locations such as the Diamond Head State Monument, the Kahala Scenic Route, Makapu’u Point, and Turtle Beach. Your knowledgeable guide will provide insights into Oahu’s history and culture, adding depth to your experience. The tour includes snorkeling equipment, lunch, and an hour of free time to relax on Turtle Beach. Join this tour and make the most of your visit to Oahu.

14. Wet N Wild Admission and Waikiki Transportation

If you’re looking for a fun-filled day of family adventure, then the Wet N Wild Admission and Waikiki Transportation is just what you need! This tour includes air-conditioned transportation to and from the water park, making the journey there and back a comfortable and enjoyable experience. You’ll also receive a delicious lunch provided as part of the package, so you can make the most of your day without having to worry about food.

The highlight of the tour is, of course, admission to the Wet’n’Wild Hawaii Water Park – make a splash and have a blast on the park’s exhilarating water slides and attractions. And with this tour, you won’t have to worry about transportation or logistics – simply book and show up ready for a day of fun in the sun.

Please note that confirmation of your booking will be sent to your email, which will include the details of your pickup location and time. This tour is not wheelchair accessible, but strollers are allowed. Service animals are also allowed, and infants must sit on laps during transportation. Most travelers can participate in this activity.

Cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance of the tour’s start time, for a full refund. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour’s start time, unfortunately, you will not be entitled to a refund. Please note that any changes made less than 24 hours before the start time will not be accepted.

Whether you’re traveling with family or friends, this tour offers a fantastic opportunity to enjoy one of Oahu’s most popular attractions without any of the usual stresses or hassles. Book now and look forward to an exciting day of water park fun!

15. Oahu Best of Oahu Island Tour

Spend an unforgettable day exploring the beautiful Oahu Island on the Best of Oahu Island Tour. Relax as you sightsee the lush mountains and turquoise waters while your experienced tour driver imparts knowledge on the island’s unique culture and rich history. The tour takes you from Diamond Head Crater, along the southern coast, to the famous surfing beaches of the North Shore. Throughout the tour, you will get to see Diamond Head, exclusive Kahala Estates, Hanauma Bay Lookout, Halona Blowhole Lookout, and Waimanalo Town. Marvel at the spectacular views from the Hanauma Bay Lookout, formed within a volcanic cone (closed on Mondays and Tuesdays), and learn about a volcanic lava tube that propels water up to the sky at the Halona Blowhole Lookout. Your knowledgeable tour driver will ensure that you have a complete overview of all the scenic points that the “Heart of Hawai‘i” has to offer. Book your Oahu Best of Oahu Island Tour now and embark on an incredible island experience.

16. Haleiwa Turtle Tour Eco Adventure

Explore the beautiful island of Oahu with the Haleiwa Turtle Tour Eco Adventure. This circle island tour takes you on a journey around the island, visiting all of its top attractions including Diamond Head State Monument, the Halona Blow Hole, the Dole Plantation, and a macadamia nut farm. But the highlight of the tour is the opportunity to swim among Hawaiian sea turtles on the North Shore.

Skip the hassle of driving and enjoy the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle with a professional local guide who will share with you the history and culture of Oahu. Snorkeling equipment is provided for your convenience, and lunch and gratuities are also included.

The meeting point for this tour is at 333 Seaside Ave in Honolulu, where you’ll need to be standing directly in front of Ross Department Store at 8:00am for pick up. The tour ends back at the meeting point.

Don’t miss the chance to see all of Oahu’s top attractions in just one day with the Haleiwa Turtle Tour Eco Adventure.

17. Oahu Legendary North Shore Loop Driving Tour

Explore the legendary Oahu North Shore with this driving tour that takes you on a loop from either Waikiki or Ko Olina. Discover the island’s top attractions and learn about the local Hawaiian history and legends with the help of turn-by-turn audio navigation and local stories. Ride in comfort in an air-conditioned vehicle and enjoy private transportation. Lunch is also included in the tour.

The tour starts at either Waikiki or Ko Olina and travels in a clockwise direction, passing by the famous North Shore. The first stop is the Dole Plantation, where you can spend an hour exploring (admission ticket not included) before moving on to Haleiwa for a 15-minute stop (admission ticket free). You’ll also visit other top Oahu attractions, including Sunset Beach, Waimea Bay, and the Banzai Pipeline.

This is a private activity, and only your group will participate. The tour is operated by the Shaka Guide Tour Apps, and confirmation will be received at the time of booking. Note that this activity is not wheelchair accessible, but most travelers can participate. Cancellation policy applies.

Answers to the Most Frequently Asked Questions About Oahu

Oahu is one of the most popular vacation destinations in Hawaii. Being the third-largest island, it has a lot to offer to both first-time and repeat visitors. Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about Oahu, plus the answers to help you plan your trip with ease.

1. What Is the Best Time to Visit Oahu?

The best time to visit Oahu is between mid-April and early June or from September to mid-December. During these months, the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller, which means that you can enjoy the island’s attractions without feeling too crowded. July, August, and December to early January are the peak seasons, and the island can get really crowded, resulting in higher hotel rates, flight fares, and longer lines for attractions.

2. What Is the Best Way to Get Around Oahu?

The best way to explore Oahu is by car, especially if you’re traveling with family or a group of friends. Rental car agencies are readily available at Honolulu International Airport, downtown Honolulu, and several other locations across the island.You can also use public transportation, such as the bus, to get around Oahu. The bus system in Oahu is affordable, eco-friendly, and offers some of the best views of the island from the road. You can get a day pass, which allows you to take unlimited bus rides for a day.

3. What Are the Best Beaches to Visit in Oahu?

Oahu has some of the most beautiful beaches to visit, and here are some of the best:

Waikiki Beach

Waikiki Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Oahu, and its clear waters and white sandy beaches attract thousands of visitors every day. The beach is located in the heart of Waikiki, and there are lots of restaurants, cafes, and shops nearby.

Lanikai Beach

Lanikai Beach is located on the Windward coast of Oahu, and it’s known for its turquoise blue water and powdery sand. It’s an ideal spot for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. Plus, you can enjoy a stunning sunrise here.

Sandy Beach

Sandy Beach is situated on the southeast coast of Oahu, and it’s popular among bodyboarders and surfers. The beach has strong waves, so it’s not a great spot for novice swimmers.

4. What Are the Best Hiking Trails in Oahu?

Oahu has an abundance of hiking trails, and here are some of the best:

Diamond Head Trail

Diamond Head Trail is the most popular hiking trail in Oahu, and it’s located on the southeast coast of the island. The trail takes you to the summit of Diamond Head, which offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding areas.

Manoa Falls Trail

Manoa Falls Trail is a family-friendly hiking trail located near downtown Honolulu. The trail takes you through a lush rainforest, and its highlight is the 150-feet Manoa Falls.

Koko Head Crater Trail

Koko Head Crater Trail is a challenging hiking trail that takes you to the top of Koko Head Crater. The trail has over 1,000 steps, and the view from the top is worth the hike.

5. What Are the Best Local Foods to Try in Oahu?

Oahu is known for its delicious and diverse cuisine, here are some local foods to try:

Poke

Poke is a Hawaiian staple consisting of cubed raw fish mixed with soy sauce, sesame oil, onions, and other seasonings. You can find poke restaurants and food trucks all over Oahu.

Spam Musubi

Spam Musubi is a popular snack in Oahu, consisting of a slice of cooked Spam on top of a block of rice and wrapped in nori sheet.

Lau Lau

Lau Lau is a traditional Hawaiian dish, consisting of steamed taro leaves filled with pork or fish and served with rice.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Oahu

Are you planning a trip to Oahu, Hawaii? With its beautiful beaches, rich history, and endless activities, Oahu is the perfect destination for any type of traveler. In this guide, we will give you a rundown of the best things to do in Oahu, so that you can make the most of your time on the island. Let’s dive in!

1. Explore the Beaches

Oahu boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. From the famous Waikiki Beach to the lesser-known Lanikai Beach, there is a beach for everyone on Oahu. Here are some of our favorite beaches on the island:

Waikiki Beach

Waikiki Beach is perhaps the most famous beach in Oahu. Located in Honolulu, Waikiki Beach has stunning white sand and clear blue water. It is a popular spot for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. In addition, there are plenty of restaurants and bars nearby, making it the perfect spot for a day of relaxation.

Lanikai Beach

If you’re looking for a quieter beach experience, head to Lanikai Beach. Located on the windward side of Oahu, Lanikai Beach has calm waters and soft white sand. It’s the perfect spot for kayaking, paddleboarding, or just relaxing in the sun.

North Shore Beaches

The North Shore of Oahu is famous for its big waves and is a popular spot for surfers. If you’re an experienced surfer, you’ll want to check out spots like Waimea Bay and Sunset Beach. If you’re a beginner, head to Chun’s Reef, which has smaller waves and is perfect for learning to surf.

2. Visit Pearl Harbor

Pearl Harbor is a must-see destination on Oahu. The Pearl Harbor National Memorial is home to the USS Arizona Memorial, which honors the lives lost during the attack on Pearl Harbor. Visitors can also tour the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum and Park, the USS Missouri Memorial, and the Pacific Aviation Museum.

3. Hike to a Waterfall

Oahu is home to some beautiful waterfalls, and hiking to one is a great way to experience the island’s natural beauty. Here are a few of our favorite waterfall hikes on Oahu:

Manoa Falls

The hike to Manoa Falls is a popular one, and for good reason. The trail is a mile and a half long and takes you through a lush rainforest to the base of the falls. The waterfall itself is 150 feet tall and is truly breathtaking.

Lulumahu Falls

Lulumahu Falls is a bit more off the beaten path, but is definitely worth the trek. The trail is just over 2 miles long and takes you through a bamboo forest to the base of the falls. The waterfall is about 50 feet tall and is surrounded by lush vegetation.

4. Go Snorkeling or Scuba Diving

Oahu has some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving spots in the world. The clear waters and abundant marine life make it the perfect destination for underwater adventures. Here are a few spots to check out:

Hanauma Bay

Hanauma Bay is a protected marine preserve and is a popular spot for snorkeling. The clear blue water and colorful fish make for an unforgettable experience.

Shark’s Cove

Despite its name, Shark’s Cove is a great spot for beginner snorkelers. The cove is home to a variety of marine life, including sea turtles and colorful fish.

5. Take a Surf Lesson

Surfing is a big part of Hawaiian culture, and there’s no better place to learn than Oahu. There are plenty of surf schools on the island that offer lessons for all skill levels.

6. Take a Sunset Cruise

Watching the sunset over the water is a must-do activity on Oahu. There are plenty of sunset cruises available that will take you out on the water to watch the sun go down. Many of these cruises also offer food and drinks, making for a relaxing and memorable evening.

7. Visit the Polynesian Cultural Center

The Polynesian Cultural Center is a living museum that showcases the culture and traditions of Polynesia. Visitors can learn about the history and customs of the various island nations, try traditional foods, and watch cultural performances.

8. Try Local Food

No trip to Hawaii is complete without trying the local food. From poke to shave ice, there are plenty of delicious dishes to try on Oahu. Here are a few of our favorite local spots:

Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck

Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck is a must-visit spot for seafood lovers. Their garlic shrimp is legendary and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Leonard’s Bakery

Leonard’s Bakery is famous for its malasadas, a Portuguese pastry that is popular in Hawaii. Their malasadas are a must-try and come in a variety of flavors.

Rainbow Drive-In

Rainbow Drive-In is a local institution that has been serving up classic Hawaiian plate lunches since 1961. Their signature dish is the mixed plate, which features two scoops of rice, macaroni salad, and your choice of meat.

Book Your Tour Now

Oahu is a truly magical destination with something for everyone. Whether you’re a beach lover, a history buff, or an adventure seeker, there is plenty to see and do on the island. Use this guide as a starting point for planning your trip, and get ready for an unforgettable experience.