The Gathering Place
Oahu
An island paradise where ancient culture meets modern luxury, and extraordinary activities await you within lush green mountains and clear azure waters.
Appropriately nicknamed “The Gathering Place,” Oahu is home to 70% of the entire population of the Hawaiian Islands. For decades Oahu’s tropical rainforests and white sand beaches have attracted visitors from around the world. The appeal lies not only in the exquisite landscapes but also in Oahu’s melting pot of cultures that will awaken your senses with unique cuisine, traditional music and dance, and scenic locales. Binding these ingredients together is the spirit of aloha that is steeped in the very essence of island life and will quickly make you feel part of the ‘ohana (family).
Oahu is also home to places like Iolani Palace, the only royal palace in the United States; the Bishop Museum, home to the world’s largest collection of Polynesian cultural artifacts; and the historic Pearl Harbor National Memorial. Whether you are looking to relax on the beach, hike through a rainforest to a waterfall, or learn about Hawaii’s rich culture and history, Oahu has something for everyone.
TOP OAHU ATTRACTIONS
If you're looking for an exciting, activity-filled vacation on Oahu, there are plenty of fun things to do around the island. With world-class beaches, beautiful scenery, and tons of exciting attractions, Oahu is a great place to visit if you love adventure! Here are just a few of the top attractions on the island.
OAHU BEACHES
If you're looking for a tropical getaway with plenty of beautiful, white sand beaches and clear blue waters, there's no better place to visit than Oahu. With dozens of different beach options, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you. To help make your decision easier, we've compiled information about some of the most popular Oahu beaches.
THINGS TO DO IN OAHU
Looking for exciting and unique experience on Oahu? Look no further than the many incredible activities and cultural experiences available on the island. Some of the top attractions include hiking up to Diamond Head, taking surfing lessons on Waikiki Beach, watching an exciting show at Polynesian Cultural Center, exploring Hanauma Bay for snorkeling, and so much more!
Good to Know
- Bring reef safe sunscreen to protect the coral reefs and marine life
- Grab a bite at one of the famous North Shore food trucks
- Book in advance! Popular tours sell out fast
- Get an early start and beat the crowds if you plan on visiting high traffic destinations like Diamond Head or Hanauma Bay
- Watch out for shave ice knockoffs, and if the sign says “shaved ice” it’s probably not authentic and will be more like a crunchy snow cone
- Check out the huge swap meet at Aloha Stadium for great deals on souvenirs and handcrafted items