Things to Do on Oahu

Sunburned tourists in matching Hawaiian shirts. Tacky souvenirs, crowded beaches and overpriced luaus. Tell friends that you’re headed to Oahu, and these are just some of the images they’ll conjure up in their heads. However, look beyond the stereotypes, and you’ll find an island as deep and diverse as the people who call it home.

Whether you’re looking for water sports, family activities, cultural experiences, relaxation or some fun in the sun, Oahu delivers it all with a welcoming sense of aloha. Take the time to embrace the unique spirit this island has to offer on your Oahu vacation—you won’t be disappointed.

Honolulu

Despite being the state capital and the largest city in Hawaii, Honolulu is primarily known for Waikiki Beach. Delve a little deeper into what the city has to offer however, and you’ll discover a range of attractions from art and culture to hikes and beach activities.

Waikiki Beach

Probably the most well-known attraction on Oahu, Waikiki’s reputation for being overrun by tourists is true—you’ll probably find the highest concentration of visitors (and hotels) on the island here. Despite that fact, we still have a good time in Waikiki (shh, don’t tell anyone we said that!). Whether it’s the infectious smiles of new surfers, the laughter of kids on the beach or the multitude of food and shopping options, Waikiki has an intangible allure that keeps visitors returning. Relax and join the ongoing party on the sand and in the water, and you’ll be surprised at how much you’ll enjoy yourself. [Read about Oahu’s other great beaches.]

 

• A statue on Waikiki Beach commemorates Duke Kahanamoku, regarded as the person who popularized the sport of surfing.

Courtesy of the OVB

Bishop Museum

The Bishop Museum houses more than 24 million artifacts, documents and photographs about Hawaii and other Pacific Island cultures. Wander through the Polynesian and Hawaiian Halls to learn about Polynesian culture and the origins of Hawaii. Note: The Hawaiian Hall is currently closed for renovations and is expected to reopen in August 2009.

1525 Bernice St. Tel. 808-847-3511. Admission: $15.95 for adults; $12.95 for seniors (65 & older) and children (ages 4-12); children 3 and under are free. Discounts are available for kama’aina (locals), military visitors and visitors accompanied by local residents and military personnel. www.bishopmuseum.org

‘Iolani Palace

Oahu is host to the only palace in the United States that was used as an official residence by a reigning monarch. The ‘Iolani Palace is the former home of Hawaii’s last two reigning monarchs—King David Kalakaua and his sister and successor, Queen Lili`uokalani. Visitors can tour the palace, barracks and grounds on their own or through a docent-guided tour.

 

• An exhibit at the Bishop Museum.

Courtesy of the OVB

364 S. King St. Tel. 808-522-0822. Admission: varies depending on the type of tour (docent-guided, audio or self-guided) you choose to do. Note: Visitors are not allowed to wear bathing suits into the palace. www.iolanipalace.org

Diamond Head

Diamond Head (also known as Le’ahi, “brow of the tuna”) is an old volcanic crater and an iconic feature of the Waikiki skyline. Having made the trek to the crater annually on New Year’s Day since 2002, we can vouch for the stunning view of Waikiki and the south shore of Oahu. The trail to the rim is an easy to moderate hike and includes two flights of stairs.

Off Diamond Head Road between Makapu’u Avenue and 18th Avenue. Tel. 808-587-0300. Newly added admission to the park is $1 for walk-ins and $5 for cars. www.hawaiistateparks.org

 

• Get away from the hustle and bustle of Honolulu by retreating to the Wailoi Tea Room in the Manoa Valley.

Courtesy of the OVB

Manoa Valley

For a change of pace, head to Manoa Valley, a residential area in the north end of the city. Enjoy the lush scenery and old Hawaiian charm of the neighborhood as you make your way to the trailhead of Manoa Falls. Hike through a rain forest of trees, giant ferns and bamboo to reach the 150-foot waterfall. After your hike before leaving the area, join the locals at the Wai’oli Tea Room (2950 Manoa Road; tel. 808-988-5800) for an English-style tea service. Drive through the University of Hawaii campus and turn right on Manoa Road; the road dead-ends at the trailhead.

Chinatown

Go to Honolulu’s Chinatown for great dim sum and serene temples, but we also recommend that you stay and explore the art galleries in the neighborhood. Rub elbows with local artists on the first Friday of every month (“First Fridays”), when galleries are open late and offer entertainment, drinks and snacks to visitors. [Read more in the Honolulu Chinatown article.]

Next: South Shore Attractions: Pearl Harbor