Hawaii is a great place to visit.
How do you plan a vacation to Hawaii?
This post will help plan your trip to Oahu, with the best attractions for experiencing the history and culture of this island.
What is Oahu best known for?
Oahu is Hawaii’s most populous island and also its most visited.
Oahu, also known as the “Gathering Place,” is the home of Honolulu – the capital city. Pearl Harbor is also located here, as well as the “North Shore”, surfing and Waikiki Beach.
Hawaii 5-0 fans will recognize Iolani Palace built by King Kalakaua in 1882. It was the last home of Hawaii’s royal family before the state became the 50th.
How many days should I spend in Oahu, Hawaii?
Hawaii can be a great place to visit, but don’t try to see everything in one trip.
Hawaii is made up of six main islands: Kauai (also known as Oahu), Lanai (also called Molokai), Maui and Hawaii. Each island is unique, offering a different culture and a variety of activities, attractions and adventures.
While flights between islands can be convenient, island hopping and changing hotels consumes a large amount of vacation time.
Choose one island to explore and enjoy its beauty.
What are the best attractions in Oahu?
Oahu is a great place to visit when you are in Hawaii.
Here you can find a list of the top attractions on Oahu, organized by type: historical, adventure, cultural.
Historical Attractions in Oahu
Hawaii is a state with a rich and varied history. The best attractions on Oahu are a great way to learn about that history. Here are the best historic sites on Oahu.
Pearl Harbor
Pearl Harbor is one of Oahu’s most important attractions. It is the most popular site in the Hawaiian Islands, with more than 1.8 millions visitors per year.
Pearl Harbor is more than just one thing. Pearl Harbor is a place to visit that includes historical sites, museums, and ship tours.
The main attractions at Pearl Harbor include:
- The U.S.S. Arizona Memorial (free but reservations are required 8 weeks in advance or better if you purchase a tour package which includes it).
- The U.S.S. Missouri (paid)
- The U.S.S Bowfin Submarine
- The Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum is a paid attraction
- The U.S.S. Oklahoma Memorial is free
Hanaiakamalama
Drive into the lush Nuuanu valley to discover Hanaiakamalama. This was the summer retreat for Queen Emma, Kamehameha III and Prince Albert. The museum, which is listed on the National Historic Registry, contains a collection of items belonging to Queen Emma as well as antiques and royal memorabilia.
LOCALS SUGGESTIONS: The Nuuanu Pali Lookout is a short distance up the Pali Highway. It offers a stunning view of the entire island. It’s windy, so keep your hat on!
Bishop Museum
Bishop Museum is the top museum in Hawaii for natural and cultural history. The museum is one of Hawaii’s most historical attractions. It houses millions of artifacts, documents and other materials to help share the history of Hawaii as well as other Polynesian culture. The museum is open every day.
PRO TIP If you plan to visit multiple sites in Oahu at one time, purchase the Oahu all-inclusive pass. This includes admission to Oahu’s most popular attractions for a low price. The Oahu All-Inclusive Pass provides up to 60% in savings.
Adventure Attractions in Oahu
Oahu’s natural beauty is one of its best attractions.
Manoa Falls Waterfall Hike
Hawaii and waterfalls go together …. Perhaps you’ve seen a lot Hawaii 5-0?
The guided Manoa Falls hike is about 1.8 miles long with an elevation change of 800 feet.
You will be taken through the lush native rainforest and film locations of Jurassic Park, Lost and other films.
Manoa Falls is a must-see. Lunch is included in this tour.
Waikiki Sunset Helicopter Tour
What better way is there to watch the sun go down than in a helicopter above Waikiki. As you watch the sun disappear, you will be taken on a 50-minute sunset tour that takes you past Diamond Head, Punchbowl Crater and Pearl Harbor.
LOCALS SUGGESTIONS:Another excellent spot to see the sunset is China Walls at the Koko Kai Beach Mini Park, located at the southern edge of the island.
Waikiki Beach Hoverboard Tour
Hoverboard tours are a great way to try something new at Waikiki beach.
The highlights of Waikiki are shared in this two-hour tour as you discover fascinating facts about Hawaii and its music. It’s a fun way to learn about Hawaii’s history, beauty and culture.
Helmets included in the price!
Oahu Cultural Attractions
If you ask me, I’m not sure about you, but a luau is the top cultural experience I associate with Hawaii.
There are many other cool cultural experiences that you can also consider.
Cultural Day Excursion on a Polynesian Canoe
This tour is unique as it takes you in a Polynesian Canoe along the coast, from Kewalo Basin to Diamond Head!
It’s a 44-foot long canoe that’s 21 feet wide.
Through song and storytelling, you’ll discover the history of Hawaii.
You’ll enjoy pupus grown locally, learn how to make poi (Hawaiian snack), and take a Hawaiian hula class. Local guides will also help you make a Hawaiian leis.
Ultimate Day Tour Of Oahu
This is the tour to take if you want to see it all.
This tour takes you on a full-day tour of Oahu, including the Diamond Head State Monument and the Kahala Scenic Route. Other highlights include Turtle Beach, Dole Plantation, Green World Coffee Farm, Turtle Beach and the Kahala Scenic Route.
A Traditional Luau
A traditional luau should be a part of your first visit to Hawaii.
Enjoy a delicious dinner with island favorites.
When visiting Hawaii, you should consider these attractions when planning your trip to Oahu.