If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii, this bucket list includes 46 of the best things to do in Oahu. Including the best beaches, restaurants, and activities for your Hawaiian vacation!
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50 of the Best Things to Do in Oahu, Hawaii
Table of Contents
- 1. Snorkel at Hanauma Bay
- 2. Hike the Diamond Head Summit Trail
- 3. See the geyser at Halona Blowhole
- 4. Swim at Halona Beach Cove
- 5. Visit Pearl Harbor
- 6. Take a photo at Nu’uanu Pali Lookout
- 7. Swim at Lanikai Beach
- 8. Eat at a shrimp truck
- 9. Visit the Polynesian Cultural Center
- 10. Grab a bite to eat at the Hukilau Marketplace
- 11. Jump from the rock at Waimea Bay
- 12. Spot sea turtles at Laniakea Beach
- 13. Swim at the iconic Waikiki Beach
- 14. Hike the Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail
- 15. Go surfing in Haleiwa
- 16. Go down a natural waterslide at Jackass Ginger Pool
- 17. Jump off Rainbow Bridge
- 18. Paddle board up the Anahulu River
- 19. Eat shave ice
- 20. Buy fresh macadamia nuts
- 21. Catch a sunset at Sunset Beach
- 22. Eat a farm-to-table meal at Kahuku Farm
- 23. Watch the surfers at Banzai Pipeline
- 24. Hike to a pillbox
- 25. Get a fresh acai bowl at the Sunrise Shack
- 26. Snorkel at Shark’s Cove
- 27. Eat at the Hukilau Cafe
- 28. See the banyan tree at Kawela Bay
- 29. Hike the Crouching Lion Trail
- 30. Eat a Burger at Seven Brothers
- 31. Swim in the Waimea Valley Falls
- 32. Try a fresh poke bowl
- 33. Go shark diving
- 34. Go cliff jumping at China Walls
- 35. Try malasadas from Leonard’s Bakery
- 36. Check out the Mermaid Caves
- 37. Visit the Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden
- 38. Go boogie boarding
- 39. Go on a waterfall hike
- 40. Buy fresh fruit from a roadside stand
- 41. Tour the Byodo-In Temple
- 42. Take a tour of Jurrasic Park
- 43. Swim at the Ko’olina Lagoons
- 44. Take a zipline tour
- 45. Eat a Dole Whip
- 46. Visit a sunflower farm
- 47. Swim at Yokohama Bay
- 48. Watch the Sunset at Tantalus Lookout
- 49. Take a Photo on the Dock at Kahana Bay
- 50. Hike the Olomana Trail to the Three Peaks
- A few more things to add to your Oahu bucket list:
1. Snorkel at Hanauma Bay
Hanauma Bay is an ancient volcanic crater that is filled with vibrant tropical fish and Green Sea Turtles.
Not only is it one of the best places to snorkel in Oahu, but it was even voted the Best Beach in the United States by Doctor Beach.
2. Hike the Diamond Head Summit Trail
The Diamond Head Crater was formed during a violent eruption about 300,000-500,000 years ago.
Today, visitors can hike the 1.6-mile roundtrip trail to the summit.
The uphill trail is challenging and includes a set of steep stairs, but when you reach the top you will be rewarded with the best panoramic view of Waikiki!
3. See the geyser at Halona Blowhole
The Halona Blowhole is located along Kalaniana‘ole Highway, one of the most beautiful stretches of road in Oahu.
It was formed by molten lava tubes thousands of years ago. As the surging Pacific Ocean fills the hollow tubes, it will shoot water up to 30 feet into the air!
The best time to view the blowhole is during the winter when the waves are bigger.
4. Swim at Halona Beach Cove
Halona Beach Cove is a secluded little pocket of paradise adjacent to the Halona Blow Hole.
It is also sometimes referred to as “Cockroach Cove”. Supposedly, this nickname was given by the locals to keep the tourists away.
You may recognize this beach from the famous love scene in the 1953 Hollywood Classic, From Here to Eternity.
Halona Beach is also the filming location of Whitecap Bay on Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides.
When you walk down to the beach, you’ll even find a hidden tunnel that leads underneath the highway.
5. Visit Pearl Harbor
Take time to visit Pearl Harbor where you will learn the somber details about the events that took place on December 7, 1941.
You’ll find a museum with compelling exhibits, and you can even take a boat tour to the USS Arizona Memorial where you can pay your respects to those who lost their lives at Pearl Harbor.
6. Take a photo at Nu’uanu Pali Lookout
The Nu’uanu Pali Lookout is nicknamed “The Window to the World”. This viewpoint can be found along the scenic Pali Highway and lies about 1,200 feet above sea level.
Here you’ll see the wild shoreline and iridescent ocean on one side, and the mist-shrouded Koolau Cliffs on the other.
This site is also a historic landmark where the Battle of Nuuanu was fought in 1795.
7. Swim at Lanikai Beach
Lanikai means “Heavenly Sea”, which perfectly describes this picturesque beach.
Lanikai Beach is known as one of the most beautiful beaches in Oahu and is often ranked as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
You can sunbathe on the sugary white sand beach, snorkel in the crystal clear water, or kayak out to two small islands just off the shore.
8. Eat at a shrimp truck
The North Shore is known for its food trucks, particularly shrimp trucks.
A few of the most popular ones include Giovanni’s, Fumis, Romy’s, and the North Shore Shrimp Truck.
You really can’t go wrong with any of those options. They all sell freshly cooked shrimp dripping in lemon butter or dusted with flavorful spices.
9. Visit the Polynesian Cultural Center
Spend the day learning about the culture and traditions of the six Pacific island nations.
Guests can visit authentic villages spread across 42 acres where they get to experience presentations, performances, and hands-on activities.
Be sure to make reservations for the nightly luau and fire show, it can’t be missed!
You may want to consider purchasing a Go City Pass that allows you to bundle and save with different attractions in Oahu, such as the PCC.
10. Grab a bite to eat at the Hukilau Marketplace
The Hukilau Marketplace is located just outside the Polynesian Cultural Center.
This marketplace is reminiscent of a 1950s Hawaiian market where you’ll find some of the best food on the island.
Try the Mango Mascarpone Pizza and Guava Cheesecake at Pounders, or the Hawaiian Plates and $1 Coco Rice at Tita’s Grill.
11. Jump from the rock at Waimea Bay
Waimea Bay is considered one of the best beaches on the North Shore.
It is also one of the best spots to cliff jump in Oahu. You’ll find a massive rock on the shore that draws locals and tourists alike.
There are ledges at varying heights that make it fun for both adults and kids to jump off during the summer months.
*Related post: For more fun things to do with families, be sure to check out our guide 10 Unforgettable Things to do in Oahu with Kids!
12. Spot sea turtles at Laniakea Beach
For decades, Green Sea Turtles have been frequenting the shores of Laniakea Beach more than any other beach in Oahu.
The turtles even have their favorite sunbathing spots that are marked with signs.
You’ll find volunteers on the beach that will answer any questions and share more information about these beautiful creatures.
13. Swim at the iconic Waikiki Beach
When people think of Oahu, one of the first things they picture is the shores of Waikiki Beach.
The palm tree lined beach is located in the heart of downtown Honolulu just steps away from upscale shops and restaurants.
Get out on the water with a surf lesson or a glass bottom boat tour for only $40.
14. Hike the Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail
The Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail is one of the best hikes in Oahu with kids.
The paved 2-mile out and back trail leads to the historic lighthouse and stunning ocean lookouts.
There is even a side trail that leads down to the Makapu’u Tidepools.
This is also one of the best places to spot whales in the winter months!
15. Go surfing in Haleiwa
Haleiwa is part of Hawaii’s Seven Mile Miracle, the most concentrated stretch of surf breaks in the world.
It is also considered the surfing capital of the world with many pro surfing competitions held here annually.
Take a surf lesson or rent a board and head to Pua’ena Point Beach Park, one of the best beginner and intermediate surf beaches in Haleiwa.
16. Go down a natural waterslide at Jackass Ginger Pool
The Judd Trail is a short 1-mile loop trail that leads through a beautiful native forest.
However, the main highlight of this trail is the swimming hole that can be found about 0.25 miles down the trail.
The Jackass Ginger Pool is a refreshing pool with a natural rock waterslide down a small waterfall. There are also rocks for cliff jumping and sometimes you’ll even find a rope swing.
17. Jump off Rainbow Bridge
Historic Rainbow Bridge is one of the most iconic structures in Haleiwa.
It is also a popular spot for local kids and tourists to hang out and jump into the Anahulu River below.
For more things to do in Haleiwa, check out our guide 8 Things to do Haleiwa!
18. Paddle board up the Anahulu River
The Anahulu River is one of the best spots to paddle board with sea turtles. The turtles love swimming upstream to feed on the grass growing on the bottom of the river.
The river follows under Rainbow Bridge and continues for about a mile upstream.
Paddle board rentals are available in Haleiwa, or you can take a paddle boarding tour.
19. Eat shave ice
There are plenty of places to get shave ice in Oahu, but Matsumoto’s in Haleiwa is the most popular spot.
My favorite flavor is the “Hawaiian” with coconut, banana, and pineapple. Be sure to add a scoop of ice cream and get it snowcapped with condensed milk on top!
If you’re looking for someplace a little less touristy, try Shimazu Shave Ice or Kula Shave Ice North Shore.
20. Buy fresh macadamia nuts
The North Shore Macadamia Nut Farm is the only working Macadamia nut farm in Oahu. This family-run farm has been selling fresh macadamia nuts since 1972.
Try their unique flavors, such as Caramel Roasted, Cinnamon Roasted, or Coconut Roasted macadamia nuts.
21. Catch a sunset at Sunset Beach
Sunset Beach is arguably the best place to watch the sunset in all of Oahu.
The beach stretches over two beautiful sandy miles so you won’t have to fight the crowds to catch Mother Nature’s evening show.
For more beach recommendations, see our guide to 10 of the Best Beaches on Oahu’s North Shore!
22. Eat a farm-to-table meal at Kahuku Farm
Kahuku Farm Cafe serves dishes that are made with fresh ingredients grown right at the farm.
You can even bring a blanket and enjoy your meal in the gardens.
Try the Farm Pizza and Haupia Pineapple Smoothie, or indulge in their Grilled Banana Bread topped with vanilla haupia and caramel.
23. Watch the surfers at Banzai Pipeline
The Banzai Pipeline at Ehukai Beach is one of the most famous surf breaks in the world and is known for its perfect barrel wave.
It is also considered one of the deadliest waves in the world, just plan to be a bystander and leave the surfing to the pros!
24. Hike to a pillbox
There are several abandoned military bunkers around Oahu that are known as “pillboxes”.
There are designated hiking trails leading to the pillboxes and panoramic views. A few of the most popular ones include the Lanikai Pillbox, Ehukai Pillbox, and the Pink Pillbox.
25. Get a fresh acai bowl at the Sunrise Shack
The trendy Sunrise Shack is a cute vibrant yellow roadside stand that is known for its fresh acai bowls and Instagrammable shots.
You can enjoy your bowl on their outdoor picnic tables or take it across the street to eat at Sunset Beach.
For more things to do on the North Shore, check out our guide The Perfect 3 Day North Shore Oahu Itinerary.
26. Snorkel at Shark’s Cove
Shark’s Cove is the best spot to snorkel on the North Shore, especially for families.
Scuba Dive Magazine even rated Sharks Cove as one of the ‘Top 12 Shore Dives in the World’.
The cove is surrounded by a natural rock barrier creating a perfect pool of calm water filled with vibrant fish.
27. Eat at the Hukilau Cafe
The Hukilau Cafe located in Laie was the inspiration for the Hukilau Cafe in the movie, 50 First Dates.
However, the exterior of the cafe in the movie is actually an old building at Kualoa Ranch and the interior was shot on a movie set in LA.
This cozy little cafe has been featured in the Food Network Magazine as well as Man vs. Food.
Hukilau Cafe is known for its homestyle local dishes such as the Loco Moco Burger and Hukilau Burger.
28. See the banyan tree at Kawela Bay
Kawela Bay is a secluded beach located near Turtle Bay and is a favorite among locals and families.
One of the unique features here is an expansive banyan tree that has found its way onto the Hollywood big screen.
It has served as the filming location for scenes in several television shows and box office hits, such as Pirates of the Caribbean, Jumanji, Hunger Games: Catching Fire, and Lost.
29. Hike the Crouching Lion Trail
The Crouching Lion Trail is one of the best short hikes on Oahu. The trail is less than a mile, but packs a big punch with one of the best views on the island.
There are steep drop-offs and the trail is technically closed. This means that it is not maintained by the state of Hawaii, so you are hiking at your own risk.
See our guide for Hiking the Crouching Lion Trail for more information!
30. Eat a Burger at Seven Brothers
Seven Brothers is a North Shore institution with two locations, our favorite is at the Kahuku Sugar Mill. This family-run restaurant serves up the best burgers and homestyle fries.
Be sure to order the signature Paniolo (Cowboy) Burger that is stacked with a beef patty, two thick hand-cut battered onion rings, grilled pineapple, bacon, cheese, and then slathered in BBQ sauce.
31. Swim in the Waimea Valley Falls
Waimea Falls is a natural rain-fed 45-foot waterfall that has a pool deep enough to swim in.
The waterfall is located in the lush Waimea Valley along a .75-mile paved path through the blossoming botanical gardens.
32. Try a fresh poke bowl
When visiting Hawaii, you definitely need to try a poke bowl made from fresh fish caught daily. It’s the best you’ll ever have!
Our favorite is the Spicy Ahi Poke Bowl from the Shaka Bowls food truck.
And if you love fresh fish, you HAVE to try the Ahi Katsu Style fish at Ken’s Fresh Fish. Thank me later.
For more food recommendations, check out our guide 12 Best Places to Eat in Oahu.
33. Go shark diving
Whether you go shark diving in a cage or in the open water, it is definitely one of the most epic things to do in Oahu!
Hawaii Adventure Diving offers small group open water dives with discounted rates on Groupon. Or, if you prefer, this cage diving experience is a great deal.
34. Go cliff jumping at China Walls
When the water is calm, the lava cliffs at China Walls are the best spot for cliff jumping into the ocean!
Just avoid going when the water is even slightly rough as it can be quite dangerous.
35. Try malasadas from Leonard’s Bakery
Malasada’s are Portuguese donuts that are essentially puffs of heaven.
While you can find malasadas at bakeries around the island, you need to get them from Leonard’s. They have been selling them since 1952 and they are still the best in Oahu!
36. Check out the Mermaid Caves
The Mermaid Caves are ethereal sea caves that look like something out of a Disney movie.
The caves can only be visited at low tide, and even then can still be dangerous if hit by a rogue wave. Use extreme caution if you climb down into the caves, or just admire them from above.
For more information, see our guide to 9 Secret(ish) Spots in Oahu.
37. Visit the Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden
This 400-acre botanical garden is one of the most beautiful spots in all of Oahu.
Tropical plants have been imported from around the world to fill these gardens that are set against the striking Koolau Mountain Range.
There is a scenic 4.2-mile drive through the park, along with several hiking trails.
38. Go boogie boarding
There are several beaches that are great for boogie boarding, such as Sherwoods Beach, Waimea Bay, and Sandy Beach.
Although, Sandy Beach can be dangerous if the waves are too big, check with the lifeguards.
Our personal favorite is Sherwoods Beach, a beautiful hidden gem away from the crowds.
39. Go on a waterfall hike
There are several waterfall hikes in Oahu, but our favorite is Lulumahu Falls.
This 1.6-mile trail leads through a dense bamboo forest and alongside Lulumahu Stream before ending at a 70-foot waterfall.
You will need a permit to hike this trail since it is on private government property, but the permits are cheap and easy to obtain.
Other waterfall hikes include the Maunawili Falls Trail, Likeke Falls Trail, Laie Falls Trail, or Manoa Falls Trail.
See our guide 8 of the Best Hikes on Oahu for more recommendations.
40. Buy fresh fruit from a roadside stand
While driving around the island, you’ll find several roadside stands selling fresh fruit. Be sure to stop and try a fresh chilled coconut or other locally grown produce.
Our favorite is the Kahuku Land Farms stand on the North Shore. Try the sliced mangos sprinkled with Hawaiian li-hing powder.
This is also the best place to get deep-fried banana lumpia!
41. Tour the Byodo-In Temple
The Byodo-In Temple is an active Buddhist temple located at the base of the towering Koolau Mountain Range.
This is a small-scale replica of the original 950-year-old Byodo-In Temple in Japan.
It has even earned a spot on National Geographic’s list, “20 of the World’s Most Beautiful Buddhist Temples”.
It also served as the setting for several scenes in Magnum PI, Hawaii Five-O, Lost, and House of the Rising Sun.
42. Take a tour of Jurrasic Park
If Kualoa Ranch looks like it belongs on the set of Jurrasic Park, that’s because it does!
This 4,000-acre private nature preserve is the filming location for Jurrasic Park and many other Hollywood movies and tv shows.
Guests can tour the ranch and see leftover movie props from their favorite scenes.
43. Swim at the Ko’olina Lagoons
The Ko’olina Lagoons are man-made lagoons located on the shore of several upscale resorts, including Disney’s Aulani Resort.
These four crescent lagoons are open to the public as well as resort guests. The calm shallow pools are especially great for swimming and snorkeling with kids.
This side of the island also sees more sun, so it’s the perfect spot to relax for a day at the beach!
You can also find Rainbow Reef, a giant snorkel tank at Disney’s Aulani Resort.
For $25 you can snorkel among thousands of tropical fish in this man-made coral reef pool. It is the only private snorkeling lagoon in Oahu and is only open to guests at the resort.
44. Take a zipline tour
CLIMB Works offers the best zipline tours in Oahu!
The 3-hour guided zipline tour takes you across 8 different lines and includes 2 rappels, 3 sky bridges, and an ATV ride to the beginning of the course.
The longest line is almost a half-mile long!
45. Eat a Dole Whip
Visit the Dole Plantation where you can take a train ride around the plantation gardens and enjoy a refreshing Dole Whip.
You can also get a Dole Whip at Tutu’s Sweet Shop at the Hukilau Marketplace where the line isn’t nearly as long!
46. Visit a sunflower farm
If you are visiting anytime from September to December, be sure to stop by DuPont Pioneer’s Waialua Farm to see the sunflower fields in bloom.
The pops of bright yellow against the mountain range in the backdrop are just stunning!
47. Swim at Yokohama Bay
Ka’ena Point State Beach Park at Yokohama Bay is a bit of a hidden gem.
It is located on the northwestern tip of the island and most tourists don’t make it over to this more remote part of the island.
The beach is absolutely stunning with the turquoise water and rugged mountain backdrop.
This is more of a local’s beach so be respectful and kind.
48. Watch the Sunset at Tantalus Lookout
Tantalus Lookout is less than 20 minutes from downtown Honolulu and is one of the best places to watch the sunset on the island!
Take the winding road to the top of Puu Ualakaa State Park and enjoy an evening picnic on the grassy hill while the sun sets below the horizon.
49. Take a Photo on the Dock at Kahana Bay
You may have seen photos from the dock at Secret Beach that have surfaced on social media. However, that dock is located on private property and can only be accessed by booking a tour through Kualoa Ranch.
But, you can get a similar picture for free from a dock that is much easier to access. This small dock and parking lot is located on the north shore of Kahana Bay on the windward side of the island.
50. Hike the Olomana Trail to the Three Peaks
The Olomana Trail is a 4.5 mile out and back hike that leads to 3 imposing mountain peaks jutting out of the landscape.
This is one of the most beautiful hikes on Oahu, but it is also dangerous. Read our guide to Hiking the Olomana Trail for all the details.
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A few more things to add to your Oahu bucket list:
Here are a few more of the best things to do in Oahu that we’ve added to our bucket list, and hopefully you will too!
- Take a boat tour to the Kaneohe Sandbar where you can snorkel with sea turtles.
- Volunteer at Kualoa Ranch’s Hokipu’u Learning Center during their open workday every second Saturday.
- Attend a traditional luau. There are several to choose from, the Paradise Cove Luau is a great option!
- Cruise along Lagoon Drive where you’ll drive right next to the ocean and see dozens of little islands. The drive ends at a parking lot by the airport where you can watch the planes taking off.
- Go shopping at the International Marketplace in Waikiki.
- Take a self-guided kayak tour to Chinaman’s Hat.
- Visit Bishop Museum, the best museum in Oahu to learn about Hawaiian history and culture.
- Hike the Koko Crater Trail. It consists of over 1,000 steps up an old railway, but the grueling hike promises unparalleled views!
- Make reservations at Haleiwa Joe’s at the Haiku Gardens. This intimate garden setting is the ultimate spot for a romantic dinner!
- Check out the Aloha Stadium Swap Meet or the KCC Farmer’s Market for local souvenirs and gifts.
- Visit Papailoa Beach, also known as “Police Beach”. This is the filming location for the hidden ‘Survivors Beach Camp’ from Lost.
- Hike to Jackass Ginger Pool. The easy trail leads to a modest waterfall, swimming hole, rock jumping, and small natural waterslide.
- Catch the Hilton fireworks show every Friday at 7:30. You can see them from the Ala Moana Beach Park.
- If you’re feeling adventurous, try the Pali Notches Trail.
- Visit the aquarium and see the marine shows at Sea Life Park. This is the same aquarium that Adam Sandler worked at in the movie 50 First Dates.
While there are still so many more things to do in Oahu, I hope this extensive guide will help inspire your Oahu bucket list!
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