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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
Polynesian Cultural Center Tickets
The Polynesian Cultural Center, home to Hawaii’s largest Polynesian luau show, is a must-visit for anyone interested in experiencing the rich culture and traditions of the islands all set within the natural beauty of Oahu’s North Shore. Here, you can immerse yourself in the music, dance, and customs of Hawaii, Tahiti, Samoa, Tonga, Fiji, and New Zealand with a variety of interactive exhibits, live performances, and hands-on activities that provide a fun and educational experience for all ages.
Kaneohe Sandbar
Embark on a journey to the Kaneohe Sandbar with these exciting tours. Situated in the heart of Kaneohe Bay, this unique sandbar emerges as a beach or a waist-high aquatic playground, depending on the tide. From thrilling snorkeling adventures among vibrant coral reefs to beach volleyball and tranquil picnics with Koolau Mountains views, it's a must-visit in Oahu. Experience the stunning natural beauty of the Kaneohe Bay Sandbar, accessible only by boat or kayak.
Pearl Harbor Tickets & Guided Tours
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.
Kualoa Ranch Jurassic Valley Tours
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.
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!
Sea Life Park
At Sea Life Park, located just 15 miles from Waikiki on Oahu's scenic Makapu'u Point, Hawaii's marine life comes alive in a dazzling display sure to entertain and delight. Sea Life Park is a world-class marine attraction perched between the majestic Ko'olau Mountain Range and the point's breathtaking beaches. Visitors of all ages flock to the park to see dolphins dance, sea lions sing and penguins perform in this magical facility by the sea.
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!
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.
Things To Do Kailua Beach & Lanikai
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.
West Oahu & Ko Olina Things To Do
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.
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.
Waimea Valley Falls, Hike & Swim
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.
Manoa Falls Trail & Hiking Tours
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.
Diamond Head Crater Hiking Tours
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Hanauma Bay Snorkeling Tours
Come experience the beauty of Hawaii’s most popular snorkeling destination with a visit to Hanauma Bay Park! This ocean nature preserve is home to a wide variety of marine life, making it a great spot for snorkeling. No trip to Honolulu would be complete without visiting this natural aquatic wonderland filled with tropical fish, color coral reefs, and Hawaiian green sea turtles. With beautiful scenery and plenty of fun in the sun, visiting Hanauma Bay is a must-do activity on your trip to Oahu.
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!
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.
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.
Jurassic Park Oahu
Discover the legendary landscapes of Oahu's Kualoa Ranch, famous as the backdrop for Jurassic Park and Jurassic World." Our selection includes ATV raptor adventures, movie site tours, zipline experiences, and horseback rides through Jurassic Valley. Dive into cinematic history while enjoying Hawaii’s exquisite outdoors, making for an epic journey through the land where dinosaurs once roamed.

Top-Rated Activities for Oahu

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Kaneohe Bay Sandbar Ocean Sports Adventure with Snorkel, Kayak, SUP & Live Music
From USD 105.10
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Jurassic Valley Kualoa Ranch ATV Raptor Adventure Tour
From USD 157.02
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Star of Honolulu Sunset Dinner Cruise with Polynesian Show & Live Entertainment
From USD 105.30
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Captain Bob's Kaneohe Sandbar Snorkel & BBQ Lunch with Free Transportation
From USD 171.95
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Polynesian Cultural Center Tour Ticket - Full Day Admission, Dinner & Show
USD 158.00
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Captain Bruce Kaneohe Sandbar Cruise with SUP, Guided Snorkel & Transportation
From USD 149.00
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Hilton Waikiki Starlight Luau with Fire Dancers, Hula Show & Dinner Buffet
From USD 193.72
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Kualoa Ranch Experience - Jurassic Valley Movie Tour, Jungle Jeep & Farm Tour
From USD 57.54
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Waikiki Sunset Booze Cruise with 3 FREE Drinks - Ke Kai Catamaran
USD 67.43
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Waikiki Snorkel with Turtles Cruise with Beers & Cocktails - Ke Kai Catamaran
USD 67.43
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Paradise Cove Luau on the Beach at Ko Olina Resort
From USD 150.00
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Chief's Luau - Polynesian Show with Authentic Award-Winning Fire Knife Dancing
From USD 140.00
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North Shore ATV Tour Beachfront Trail & Off-Road Adventure Ride
From USD 125.89
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Hawaiian Parasailing Tour & Adventure from Waikiki Beach [800ft & 1000ft Lines]
From USD 78.99
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Waikiki Sunset Cocktail Sail with Open Bar Included - Holokai Catamaran
USD 83.77
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Na Hoku Catamaran Diamond Head Happy Hour Sail with Drinks Included from Waikiki
From USD 39.75
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Kualoa Ranch Combo - Movie Tour & Kaneohe Bay Catamaran Cruise with Buffet Lunch
From USD 125.60
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Waikiki's Most Affordable Turtle Snorkel Boat Tour - Mana Kai Catamaran
From USD 68.06
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West Oahu Snorkel Cruise with Dolphin Watch, Kayak, SUP, Waterslide & Lunch
USD 197.90
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Hanauma Bay Snorkel Tour with Expert Guide & Waikiki Transportation
From USD 109.00

Latest reviews of Top Oahu Attractions & Sights

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

Highly recommend, kid and family friendly.

2024/04/15 Families with Young Children Jp

Had a great time the crew was so friendly and helped to take pictures and even played volleyball with the group. The boat was very nice as well lots of seating and a restroom on it. Lunch was good burgers were tasty ove... more

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Kaneohe Bay Sandbar Ocean Sports Adventure with Snorkel, Kayak, SUP & Live Music

Great Time with the Family

2024/04/15 Families with Young Children Marissa

We had a great time at sandbar. We went with three small children and they had a great time despite not being interested in snorkeling/kayaking. One of the staff had a speed boat and took our family out for a cruise to... more

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

Fun

2024/04/14 Families Monica Martínez

We had a wonderful time everyone and everything made our time special love it

Polynesian Cultural Center Tour Ticket - Full Day Admission, Dinner & Show

Best Day Ever!

2024/04/14 Couples Masterson

There was so much to see and do. We thoroughly enjoyed the demonstrations and musical presentations. We learned how to make poi, husk coconuts, and weave palm fronds, among other things. The dinner buffet was the best... more

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Kualoa Ranch Combo - Movie Tour & Kaneohe Bay Catamaran Cruise with Buffet Lunch

Second time visit the ranch

2024/04/14 Families with Young Children Juan Carlos García

This is the second time that we Visit the range every time we do a different tour and they always exceeded our expectation. Our tour guy was awesome and every time we learn more history about the island. I definitely rec... more

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Waikiki Sunset Cocktail Sail with Open Bar Included - Holokai Catamaran

Sunset Perfection

2024/04/13 Couples Kraig

From start to finish the staff was all engaging and professional. They worked through any language barriers and got everyone set up for the cruise. The size of the boat and number of people on board was just right, intim... more

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Top Oahu Attractions & Sights | Book Oahu Tours, Activities & Things to Do with 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.