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I was lucky enough to spend four months living in Waikiki, Oahu, for a work assignment. Every day in Hawaii felt like a mini vacation. I worked Pacific Standard Time, sometimes from 6 AM to 2 PM local time, and afterward, I’d walk across the street to Waikiki Beach with my surfboard or head to a happy hour for $5 mai tais. Weekends were all about discovering new hikes, secret beaches, scenic drives, and garlic shrimp trucks.
Whether you’re planning a short trip or staying for a while, here are 9 fun and unforgettable things to do in Oahu, Hawaii:
Snorkeling at Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
Hanauma Bay is a protected marine life conservation area and one of the best places to snorkel in Oahu. The shallow, curved bay is teeming with colorful fish and coral reefs, perfect for beginners and families. Arrive early, as it gets crowded quickly, and be sure to make a reservation online in advance. This spot is close to Sea Life Park, where scenes from 50 First Dates were filmed. Fun fact: the Hawaiian state fish is the humuhumunukunukuapua’a.
Take a Scenic Drive to Oahu’s North Shore
A visit to the laid-back North Shore is a must. Known for its legendary surf spots and charming beach towns, it’s the perfect day trip from Honolulu.
Highlights include:
- Hale’iwa Ali’i Beach Park
- Banzai Pipeline (famous for giant winter waves)
- Turtle Bay Resort (filming location for Forgetting Sarah Marshall)
Don’t forget to stop at one of the famous North Shore garlic shrimp trucks! They’re iconic for a reason!
Tour the Dole Plantation
The Dole Plantation is a fun and family-friendly attraction where you can ride the charming Pineapple Express train, get lost in the world’s largest pineapple maze, and cool off with a refreshing Dole Whip, a pineapple soft serve treat that’s worth the visit all on its own.
Visit Pearl Harbor and USS Arizona Memorial
Pearl Harbor is a powerful and emotional place to visit in Oahu. Here you can:
- Walk across the USS Arizona Memorial and see continuous leaking oil
- See the site where Japan surrendered in WWII
- Explore historic battleships and submarines, including the dining and living quarters of the sailors who served
- Learn about life on board through immersive exhibits
This national historic site is both educational and moving. Plan for at least half a day.
Surf Waikiki Beach
Waikiki Beach is perfect for beginners learning to surf. The waves are gentle and consistent, and there are plenty of surfboard rentals and instructors right along the shore. If you’re a bit more advanced or enjoy longboarding, Queens Beach offers slightly faster waves and a more open lineup just down the beach from the main Waikiki area. You might even spot a sea turtle while waiting for a wave!
Attend a Traditional Hawaiian Luau
No trip to Hawaii is complete without experiencing a luau. These traditional Hawaiian feasts feature a slow-roasted pig cooked in an underground imu, accompanied by live music, fire knife dancing, and vibrant hula performances that share the stories and culture of the islands.
Hike Diamond Head Crater
Diamond Head State Monument is one of the most iconic hikes in Oahu. This relatively easy hike leads to panoramic views of Waikiki and the Pacific Ocean.
Distance: ~1.6 miles round-trip
Time: 1–2 hours
Tip: Go early to beat the heat and the crowds.
If you’re a runner, the loop around the base of the crater is a scenic 5-mile route through Honolulu neighborhoods.
Explore More Hikes Around Oahu
Oahu is a hiker’s paradise. Some of my favorites include:
- Lanikai Pillbox Hike: Short but steep with epic views of the Mokulua Islands
- Manoa Falls: Lush rainforest trail featured in Jurassic Park
- Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail: Easy paved hike with ocean views and whale sightings (in season)
- Waimea Falls Trail: Leads to a waterfall where you can swim!
Relax at Oahu’s Best Beaches
Beyond Waikiki, Oahu is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world:
- Lanikai Beach: Incredibly beautiful with powdery sand and turquoise waters, ideal for kayaking or relaxing
- Waimea Bay: Great for swimming in summer, cliff jumping, and wave watching in winter
- Ko Olina Lagoons: Calm, man-made lagoons near the Disney resort. Perfect for kids or a peaceful swim
Bonus: Low-Key Things To Do in Oahu
If you’re staying longer or looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences, try:
- Ala Moana Center: Huge open-air shopping mall
- Kapiolani Park: Great for picnics or yoga near the beach
- Honolulu Farmers Markets: Fresh local produce and unique snacks
- Aloha Stadium Swap Meet: Affordable souvenirs and local crafts
Final Thoughts
From surfing and snorkeling to exploring hidden waterfalls and historic sites, Oahu truly has something for everyone. Whether it’s your first time in Hawaii or you’re staying for a few months like I did, these activities will help you make the most of your time on the island.
Ready to plan your Oahu itinerary? Bookmark this list for your next Hawaiian adventure!
Places Megan Goes 