Things To Do In Oahu Hawaii

Oahu, Hawaii’s 3rd largest island, could easily be considered the heart beat of Hawaii. With lush looping mountain trails and paths, to monster waves breaking on the gorgeous north shore golden beaches, to beaches where the turtles are swimming right along with you, down to wonderful local country stores and shops and discovering the uniqueness of Hawaiian culture, where do you begin?

With limited time and a boat load of things to see and do, here’s a list of attractions and casual things to do in Oahu, that I hope will help you determine what you’d like to put in your plans!

Snorkeling in the beautiful Hanauma Bay Park

The Hanauma Bay Nature Park is actually a State Underwater Park and is a local paradise for even the novice of snorkelers! The area around the bay is the result of the ocean’s breach and thrust into two volcano craters. In addition to the awesome swimming and snorkeling areas, there are also hiking trails with beautiful vistas and plenty of hiking and picnicking sites.

Take an Eco Adventure Tour and swim with marine life

This is a great way to discover whales, dolphins and sea turtles with local nature-tour operators who are filled with knowledge and carry a deep rooted respect for marine animals in their natural habitat. Cruise out to sea in a relaxed atmosphere and view the gorgeous mountainous shorelines and pristine beaches. This journey is sure to make memories of a lifetime! Don’t forget your camera!

A must do is a Hawaii Luau!

A Hawaiian Luau, based on traditional Hawaiian feasts, has become a rite of passage for all tourists and visitors! You can expect a exciting show, a huge delicious buffet and a true authentic Hawaiian ritual experience!

Feeling the Hawaiian mojo? Try your hand at surfing!

What was once the sport of ancient Hawaiian royalty, you can find lessons right on Waikiki Beach. The surf is not aggressive and is great for beginners and kids as young as eight can try! If that’s too much adventure for you and you’re there in the winter, try heading on up to the north shore and watch some of the pros compete on the giant surf!

Climb Diamond Head Volcano

One of the most famous volcanic craters in the world, Diamond Head is located on the southeast coast of Waikiki. It is an easy to moderate hike that is well worth the effort when you see the spectacular view of the entire west side of the island from Waikiki to Koki Head. Pack a lunch and have a nice picinic at the top. It’s a wonderful experience.

Visit the Hawaii Polynesian Cultural Center

It’s your opportunity to visit seven Polynesian Islands in just one afternoon! Your visit will give you a chance to learn and interact with the people of Hawaii, Samoa, Maori New Zealand, Fiji, Tahiti, the Marquesas and Tonga. You can also see the world-famous and largest night show, Horizons: Where the Sea Meets the Sky.

And of course Waikiki Beach!

The place where you can sun, surf, swim and sail by day and dine, dance and party by night! Waikiki is truly legendary and fun and one of the best things that you can do in Oahu. Beyond the beautiful sand and surf, you can stroll along the flagstone walkway where you’ll see fountains, rock pools, statues and surfboard signs that teach you a bit about its history! Waikiki is one of the world’s most famous and most filmed beachs. It actually consists of nine individually named beaches which stretch along two miles of shoreline. It is filled with wonderful Aloha and it is also one of the most crowded!

Although this is just a very small portion of things to do in Oahu, I hope that this has helped you to discover a little bit about what this truly magnificent island has to offer!

Aloha