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Top Oahu Attractions & Sights

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Nicknamed "the Gathering Place," Oahu is home to Honolulu, the capital of the State of Hawaii, and once-capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom. As such, downtown Honolulu is filled with historical places and monuments that showcase the history and culture of Hawaii. Pearl Harbor is also located here, the world-famous naval base attracting over a million visitors each year. Waikiki remains one of the top tourist destinations in the world, offering plenty to see and do for travelers and locals alike.
Top Oahu Attractions & Sights
Kualoa Ranch Jurassic Valley
Kualoa Ranch is a private nature reserve and cattle ranch located on the east side of Oahu. The northern half of the ranch is Kaaawa Valley, a popular location where many TV shows and movies have been filmed, and the southern half is home to Hakipuu Valley, an 800 year-old Molii fishpond and the quiet hideaway at Secret Island beach. Guests can explore Kualoa Ranch by ATV, horseback, e-bike, or off-road vehicle, and even zipline across the treetops for the best views of the Jurassic Valley.
Kaneohe Bay Sandbar Tours
This sandbar and its surrounding coral reefs are perfect for snorkeling, playing beach volleyball, having a lunch picnic, and enjoying views of the Koolau Mountains. Located on the windward side of Oahu, this natural formation can be found at the center of Kaneohe Bay. Depending on the tide, it can be covered with waist-high water or completely exposed, creating a small beach in the middle of the ocean. The sandbar is almost a mile away from shore, so you will need a boat or kayak to get there.
Polynesian Cultural Center Tickets
The Polynesian Cultural Center is home to the famous Alii Luau and world's largest Polynesian night show! Located in Laie on the northeast shore of Oahu, Polynesian Cultural Center's facilities feature six native Pacific islands and demonstrations of the daily traditions of the people of Hawaii, Tahiti, Samoa, Tonga, Fiji and Maori. Take part in fun activities for all ages and watch authentic cultural performances. It's no wonder that Polynesian Cultural Center is Hawaii's top paid attraction!
North Shore Oahu
Oahu's North Shore is a surfer's paradise, legendary for its gigantic waves & professional surf competitions. In the winter, watch brave surfers tackle the merciless waves of Banzai Pipeline, Waimea Bay & Sunset Beach for a truly thrilling experience. During the summer, North Shore beaches offer calm waves, plenty of peaceful places to swim & miles of perfect white sand beaches. Be sure to plan a leisurely stroll through Haleiwa to explore its laid-back bistros, galleries & boutiques.
Pearl Harbor Tours & Tickets
Experience a piece of history at Pearl Harbor Naval Base. Learn about the events of World War II at the USS Arizona Memorial, USS Missouri Battleship, USS Bowfin Submarine & Pacific Aviation Museum at Pearl Harbor. The only naval base in the U.S. to be recognized as a National Historic Landmark, Pearl Harbor presents an educational and informative window into the past as well as gives you the chance to honor the memories of soldiers who fought on the Pacific front of World War II.
Kailua Beach
Rated as one of the best beaches in the world, Kailua Beach can be found on Oahu's south east side. The Kailua area is known for being a peaceful suburban neighborhood, far away from the bustle of town and without a single high-rise in sight. From the shore you can see the Mokulua Islands, a seabird sanctuary featuring volcanic cones and a common hang out for sea turtles, most accessible by kayak. Explore the nearby beach town and its unique boutiques and popular local dining spots.
Heavenly Lanikai Beach
Lanikai Beach, tucked just behind beautiful Kailua Beach, has been duly rated as one of the best beaches in the world. Views from its white sandy shores look out upon bright blue waters and the twin Mokulua islands. Lanikai Beach has become more popular for watching the moon rise at night, especially when the moon is at full brightness.
Kahala
Kahala, a neighborhood along Oahu's south coast, is home to the Kahala Hotel & Resort, previously the Kahala Mandarin Oriental. This beautiful resort stands at the end of the beach among luxurious residences and mansions that sit near the edge of Diamond Head Crater.
Kahuku Shrimp
For many years, Kahuku aquaculture farms have been raising sweet and tasty shrimp and prawns. Today a few of Kahuku's Shrimp Trucks and Farms throw down their garlicky dishes at their food truck sites and rest stops making shrimp eating a favorite thing to do for folks visiting the North Shore.
Kakaako
Oahu's burgeoning arts district can be found in Kakaako, between Waikiki and downtown Honolulu. Once an industrial district, the neighborhood is now home to a variety of retailers and restauranteurs, including craft breweries and small businesses that encapsulate the local culture of Honolulu. Explore this vibrant area and its many murals on a segway tour or a 15-seater party bike ride, or cruise along the Kakaako coast on an afternoon sail.
Makapuu Lighthouse Trail
Makapuu Beach, on Oahu's southeastern coast, is an island gem known for its prominent dark blue waters, dramatic sea cliffs, tidal pools, lighthouse. Known for its short, paved hike up to Makapuu Lookout, there are a few panoramic lookout points along the coast featuring views of Manana (Rabbit) Island and the sea bird sanctuary, Kaohikaipu Islet.
Pali Lookout
Nuuanu Pali, located northeast of downtown Honolulu, is situated high on the windy cliffs of the Ko'olau Mountain range and offers stunning views of the windward coastline's blue waters. This sweeping, uninterrupted vantage point attracts travelers looking for a bird's-eye perspective on Kaneohe Bay and Chinaman's Hat (Mokolii). Pali Lookout is historically significant, as well, marking the location of a decisive military victory for King Kamehameha I that united the island under his control.
Sunset Beach
Sunset Beach, on Oahu's North Shore, is home to a number of big wave surfing competitions during the winter including, the Quiksilver Big Wave Invitational, Vans Triple Crown of Surfing, Pipe Masters and the WSL Championship Tour. During the summer months, the waves are flat and offer great snorkeling spots, beach relaxation and beautiful sunsets.
Tantalus Lookout
Mount Tantalus, located four miles north of Waikiki, offers some of the greatest panoramic views from its lookout point near the forest canopies of Puu Ualakaa State Park. Stretching from Diamond Head and Waikiki to downtown Honolulu, a visit to Tantalus Lookout promises great photos of the city both day and night.
Turtle Bay Resort North Shore
Turtle Bay, the only resort located on Oahu's famed North Shore, is perfectly situated on a breathtaking scenic peninsula. With your choice of beach cottages, villas and suites, the resort offers an authentic Hawaiian experience perfect for a honeymoon, family vacation or even a solo jaunt to the islands. This incredible resort also boasts a heliport, two landscaped pools, a championship golf course, horseback riding along the shore and so much more.
Waimanalo Beach
Waimanalo Beach, located on Oahu's southeast shore next to Waimanalo Beach Park, has been voted by many as one of the "Best Beaches in the US" with miles of powdery white coral sand and pristine turquoise waters. This beach is a popular destination for those looking to retreat to the countryside for a much less crowded beach experience.
Waimea Bay
Waimea Bay, on Oahu's North Shore across from Waimea Valley, sits at the mouth of the Waimea River. The bay is home to "Jump Rock" which has become a popular destination for cliff diving from its 20-40 foot summit. During the winter months, advisories are put in place for inexperienced swimmers as the enormous winter waves at Waimea Bay signal the start of big-wave surf season.
Waimea Valley & Waterfalls
Waimea Falls is nestled deep in Waimea Valley on Oahu's North Shore. Here, visitors can swim in the pool at the base of the falls or enjoy a stroll through the botanical garden leading up to it. The valley also houses numerous sacred native Hawaiian conservation sites, and various cultural demonstrations are held throughout the year.
West Oahu
Known as the Waianae Coast, the west (or leeward) side of Oahu is drier than the east, seeing less rainfall and greenery. It's also much less crowded, which makes it the perfect place for a snorkeling cruise or dolphin watching trip. Hawaiian spinner dolphins are commonly spotted here, gliding through the shallow reefs during their daily rest cycles. The Ko Olina resort, home of Disney's Aulani, is also on the West side, offering a complete resort experience without the bustle of Waikiki.
Wet 'n' Wild
Wet 'n' Wild is Hawaii's waterpark, filled with attractions suited for kids, adults, and everyone in between! This family-friendly theme park allows you to ride down slides solo, share an inner tube with one or two others, or slide around on a 5-person family raft! For the adventurous, try out the Flowrider to surf a continuous wave! Want to relax? Take a break on the Lazy River or grab lunch and relax in the shade! Wet 'n' Wild has something fun for everyone!
Windward East Oahu
The cool, lush east side of Oahu is known for it's slower-paced lifestyle and small-town atmosphere compared to the busy, hectic life of the city—most of the coastline is accessible only through a single road. The east coast boasts some of the most beautiful beaches on the island, such as Makapuu, Lanikai, Kaneohe, Kualoa, and Laie beach parks. The nearby Koolau mountain range ascends sharply on this side, giving the area its signature winds and cool climate.
Snorkel at Hanauma Bay
Not only the most popular snorkeling destination in Hawaii, Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is also one Hawaii's most spectacular natural resources, reaping the benefits of new efforts to re-establish its pristine marine ecosystem. Since 1990, Hanauma Bay has been restored to accommodate about 3 million visitors each year. Swim along reefs & fish while learning about the wide variety of marine species who make this vibrant bay their home & have some fun in the sun at beautiful Hanauma Bay.
Waianae Dolphin Coast
Waianae, located on Oahu's west side, is a beautiful coast along the Waianae Mountains lined with rural towns, a recreational boat harbor, and the Ko Olina resort area where you can find the Marriott, Four Seasons, and Disney Aulani hotels. Waianae stretches for 20 miles from Nanakuli to Makua Beach and offers great panoramic views of the sunset and pods of friendly wild dolphins jumping off shore.
Waikiki Beach
Home to the beautiful Waikiki Beach Walk, this area brims with world-class shopping malls, numerous hotels & dining options, daily events, entertainment & a rich history & culture—right in Honolulu! Waikiki was once a place for leisure & surfing for Hawaiian royalty. Today it's a beautiful & lively gathering place shared with visitors from around the world. Enjoy a wide variety of tours & activities such as authentic luaus, cruises, sailing, surfing lessons & much more!
Manoa Falls Trail Hike
A residential area close to Waikiki and Ala Moana, Manoa Valley is known for its frequent rain showers. The area receives rain almost every day, making rainbows a common sight. The valley and surrounding mountains are filled with hiking trails, of which Manoa Falls is the most popular. Located at the end of the valley, this 150-foot waterfall is easily accessible from a 1.5-mile trail. Also nearby is Lyon Arboretum, home of over 5000 native and introduced plant species.
Battleship USS Missouri
The Battleship USS Missouri at Pearl Harbor, or “Mighty Mo," is where visitors can walk across the Surrender Deck which was the site where the treaty was signed ending WWII on September 2, 1945. Built in 1940, the USS Missouri was the last naval battleship constructed by the U.S. After such a rich history, the Mighty Mo was decommissioned and since 1998 has served as a memorial and preservation site honoring the men who gave their lives to World War II.
Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum
The Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum is located within former WWII hangars that still bear the scars of Oahu's 1941 attack, preserving the history of aviation during this era. Ranked as one of the top ten aviation attractions in the U.S., this museum is home to numerous restored fighter planes from history. With interactive flight simulators and exhibits showcasing authentic airplanes, this is a must-see sight for aviation and WWII buffs.
USS Bowfin Submarine
The USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park at Pearl Harbor, is steeped in history as the pivotal World War II submarine launched on December 7, 1942, exactly one year after the Pearl Harbor attack, and one of 15 submarines that was not turned into scrap metal. Visitors can tour the submarine and learn how the USS Bowfin earned its name the Pearl Harbor Avenger. Restored in the 1970s, the USS Bowfin now provides a fascinating look back in US history.
Arizona Memorial
Experience the historic USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor, a World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument, and the final resting place of the servicemen who were trapped in its sunken hull after the attack on Pearl Harbor. Although the battleship rests less than 40 feet below the water surface, it cannot be moved due to potential environmental hazards. A beautifully constructed floating memorial straddles the sunken Arizona and can only be accessed by daily boat tours.
Ala Moana Beach Park
Ala Moana Beach Park, across from Ala Moana Shopping Center near Waikiki, is Oahu's favorite gathering spot, and for good reason. Its calm clear blue waters, protective reef and golden sand beach make it a perfect spot for sunbathing, recreational swimming and family time.
Byodo-In Temple
Visit the Byodo-In Temple, located deep in the heart of Oahu's Valley of the Temples, and experience the peaceful serenity of this non-denominational Japanese shrine commemorating the first Japanese immigrants who arrived in Hawaii over a century ago. This replica of a 900 year old ancient Buddhist temple in Kyoto, Japan is tucked at the base of the Koolau Mountains and is set upon beautiful acres of koi ponds and Japanese botanical gardens.
Coral Crater Adventure Park
Coral Crater is Kapolei's one and only adventure park! Featuring a 6-line zipline course, an aerial challenge course, and their own dirt race track for side-by-side ATVs! Located on the West Side of Oahu, Coral Crater is the perfect place to get your fill of adventure for guests staying in the Ko Olina resort area. Whether you're with family, a group of friends, or just a couple, you can take your Hawaiian vacation to the next level of excitement with a visit to Coral Crater!
Diamond Head Crater
Diamond Head Crater is one of the most iconic landmarks in Hawaii, and can be seen as part of the skyline from Waikiki Beach. 19th century sailors dubbed the 760-foot volcanic crater "Diamond Head" after mistaking its sparkling calcite crystals for diamonds. Diamond Head is now a popular hiking destination for both locals and visitors who are looking for an easy hike and breathtaking views from the summit, stretching from Waikiki to Oahu's south shore.
Dole Plantation
Dole Plantation, on Oahu's North Shore, offers "Hawaii's complete pineapple experience" with it's Pineapple Express Train rides, Plantation Garden Tours, and acclaimed 3-acre pineapple-shaped botanical maze. Visitors can explore the many fun things to do as well as make a visit to their unique souvenir and gift shop or stop by the Plantation Grille for a refreshing taste of a fresh pineapple or famous Pineapple Dole Whip.
Downtown Honolulu
The center of human activity in all the Hawaiian islands, downtown Honolulu is a bustling city center filled with historic buildings, culturally-significant statues, and other marks of Hawaii's rich past. See the statue of King Kamehameha, built right across the road from Iolani Palace, the only royal residence in the United States. Nearby are the Hawaii State Capitol, as well as other places of interest such as Kawaihao Church, Mission Houses Museum, and the bustling Chinatown.
Haleiwa
Historic Haleiwa, on Oahu's North Shore, is a cheery social and artistic town serving a string of world-famous surfing beaches. Haleiwa features plantation-era buildings, unique surf shops, eclectic art galleries and cafes, and Matsumoto's Shave Ice, a perfect refreshment after a warm day on the beach. During the winter months the enormous waves of North Shore are best suited for professional surfers while the summer's calmer swells allow for recreational beach activities and surfing lessons.

Top-Rated Activities for Oahu

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Kaneohe Bay Sandbar Ocean Sports Adventure with Snorkel, Kayak, SUP & Live Music
From USD 99.00
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Star of Honolulu Sunset Dinner Cruise with Live Entertainment
From USD 109.00
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Jurassic Valley Kualoa Ranch ATV Adventure Tour
From USD 151.78
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Manu Kai Catamaran Waikiki Sunset Booze Cruise with 3 FREE Drinks
USD 55.36
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Captain Bob's Kaneohe Bay Sandbar Snorkel & BBQ Lunch with Free Transportation
From USD 161.00
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Kaneohe Bay Kayak & Snorkel Self-Guided Tour with Kayak Rental
From USD 69.00
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Chief's Luau - Polynesian Show with Authentic Award-Winning Fire Knife Dancing
From USD 155.00
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Captain Bruce Kaneohe Bay Sandbar Snorkel, Paddleboard & Turtle Watching Cruise
From USD 134.00
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Paradise Cove Luau on the Beach at Ko Olina Resort
From USD 125.00
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Manu Kai Waikiki Snorkel with Turtles Cruise with Beers & Cocktails
USD 66.43
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Polynesian Cultural Center Tour Ticket - Islands Admission, Dinner & Show
USD 152.55
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Hawaiian Parasail - Top Oahu Parasailing Tour & Adventure from Waikiki Beach
From USD 84.00
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Waikiki Sunset Cocktail Sail with Open Bar - Holokai Catamaran
USD 73.30
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Kualoa Ranch Experience - Jurassic Valley Movie Tour, Jungle Jeep & Farm Tour
From USD 54.40
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Waikiki Turtle Canyon Snorkel Sail - Holokai Catamaran
USD 99.48
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Waikiki Sunset Sail BYOB Cruise - Mana Kai Catamaran
From USD 41.65
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Kualoa Ranch Movie Tour - Visit Hawaii TV & Hollywood Movie Sites
From USD 54.40
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Waikiki Booze Cruise & Diamond Head Happy Hour Sail - Na Hoku II Catamaran
From USD 38.75
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Kualoa Ranch Zipline Tours - Jurassic Valley Zipline in Hawaii
From USD 183.19
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Waikiki Sunset Cocktail Cruise with Premium Bar - Moana Sailing Catamaran
From USD 78.71

Latest reviews of Top Oahu Attractions & Sights

Captain Bob's Kaneohe Bay Sandbar Snorkel & BBQ Lunch with Free Transportation

MMandFamily

2022/11/25 Families with Young Children MM and Family

Staff was awesome. Boat was comfortabe and accommodating. There were eight of us and we had a great time. Plenty of snacks and food.

Waikiki Deluxe Swim with Turtles Snorkel Cruise with Lunch - Turtles & You

So fun!

2022/11/25 Families Boymom107

This was such a fun snorkeling tour!! Food was delicious and the entertainment was on point. Natalie treated our family so well. Will definitely re book the next time we make another trip to Honolulu.

Captain Bob's Kaneohe Bay Sandbar Snorkel & BBQ Lunch with Free Transportation

Fun and entertaining

2022/11/24 Families with Young Children Katherine

This was our family’s first ever experience, snorkeling. We did not use the transportation, but drove ourselves. Parking was easy. The check-in process was smooth and on time. The crew was friendly, professional, and ex... more

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Chief's Luau - Polynesian Show with Authentic Award-Winning Fire Knife Dancing

MUST SEE

2022/11/23 Couples The Haneys

I highly recommend this! Really funny, informative and truly amazing talent.

Oahu ATV North Shore Eco-Tour Off-Road Adventure with Expert Local Guides

AMAZING TIME

2022/11/21 Couples Hunter

My wife and I went on this adventure while in Oahu on our honeymoon. We thought there would be multiple groups on our tour, and we were pleasantly surprised to find out it was only us and our guide. While the views, terr... more

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Paradise Cove Luau on the Beach at Ko Olina Resort

Tons of Fun

2022/11/21 Couples Kara

They announced my anniversary which was awesome! Thank you for the great experience to all the staff!

Top Oahu Attractions & Sights, Oahu tours & activities, fun things to do in Oahu | HawaiiActivities.com
Nicknamed "the Gathering Place," Oahu is home to Honolulu, the capital of the State of Hawaii, and once-capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom. As such, downtown Honolulu is filled with historical places and monuments that showcase the history and culture of Hawaii. Pearl Harbor is also located here, the world-famous naval base attracting over a million visitors each year. Waikiki remains one of the top tourist destinations in the world, offering plenty to see and do for travelers and locals alike.