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Oahu is a Hawaiian island that combines modern luxury with stunning natural beauty. The capital city of Honolulu is where you’ll find the island’s urban charm. In this area, you can explore various cultural and historical attractions such as the beautiful Iolani Palace and the solemn USS Arizona Memorial in the Pearl Harbor National Memorial. If you head to the Waikiki neighborhood nearby, you’ll be greeted by a skyline filled with tall buildings and resorts, along with expansive white sand beaches. For a taste of the rural side of Hawaii, make sure to visit the North Shore, known for its dazzling blue waters and scenic hiking trails. These three destinations are not the only places worth visiting on Oahu. The island also offers outstanding restaurants, lively cultural events, and an exciting nightlife, all of which highlight its role as a vibrant hub of Hawaiian culture.
If you’re planning a trip to Oahu, you might want to consider visiting during the mid-April to early June or September to mid-December timeframe. These periods are known as the shoulder seasons, and they offer several advantages. First, attractions are less crowded, allowing you to enjoy them without the big crowds. Second, there are plenty of festivals happening during these times, adding some extra fun to your visit. Additionally, airfare and room rates are generally lower during these seasons, which is great for saving some money.
Oahu enjoys pleasant temperatures throughout the year, ranging from the mid-60s to high 80s. However, if you’re looking to avoid rain showers, it’s best to visit between mid-June and August, which is Oahu’s summer season. During this time, the chances of rain are lower, and the sunny weather attracts many tourists to the island.
On the other hand, if you’re into surfing or love watching professionals ride the waves, you may want to visit between late December and early April. The North Shore of Oahu becomes a hub for surfers during this period, with various surfing events taking place. Keep in mind that this time can be a bit pricey due to its popularity.
In summary, the best times to visit Oahu are mid-April to early June, or September to mid-December, when you can enjoy fewer crowds, vibrant festivals, and affordable rates. If you prefer sunnier weather with fewer rain showers, plan your trip for mid-June to August. And if you’re a surfing enthusiast, don’t miss the opportunity to experience the excitement between late December and early April on the North Shore.
Here are some of our favorite things to do while visiting Honolulu - Oahu. Take your pick!
‘Iolani Palace In 1882, a beautiful 10-room house was finished. This house is not just any ordinary house - it is a museum and a National Historic Landmark. It holds a lot of history about the time when King Kalakaua and his sister, Queen …
Ala Moana Center in Honolulu is a fantastic place for shopping and finding unique souvenirs. It’s situated just northwest of Waikiki Beach, about 2 miles southeast of the city center. This enormous open-air shopping center offers an extensive …
The USS Missouri, affectionately nicknamed “Mighty Mo,” has a rich history that dates back to its launch in 1944. Its most significant moment came when it became the venue for a crucial meeting between representatives from the Allied and Axis …
If you’re interested in Hawaiian history and culture, a visit to the Bishop Museum is a must. Established in 1889 as a tribute to Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop, the wife of museum founder Charles Reed Bishop and the last descendant of the …
Looking for a peaceful and picturesque alternative to the beach? Look no further than the Valley of the Temples Memorial Park. Here, you’ll discover the Byodo-In Temple, an important Hawaii State Landmark established on June 7, 1968. This temple was …
Le’ahi, also known as Diamond Head in English, is the Hawaiian name for this famous landmark. It originated from a volcanic eruption that took place around 300,000 years ago. During this eruption, volcanic ash was forcefully ejected into the …
If you’re a pineapple lover, make sure to visit the Dole Plantation. It’s located about 10 miles inland from the North Shore and 20 miles northwest of Honolulu. This place is perfect for the whole family, offering a variety of activities and tours. …
Fort DeRussy Beach Park is a sprawling 71-acre military reservation situated at the north end of Waikiki. This beautiful beachfront park is mostly open to the public, offering a wide range of recreational activities and amenities. As you explore the …
Discover an incredible natural phenomenon at the Halona Blowhole, known as O’ahu’s version of Old Faithful. This mesmerizing attraction is located just a short distance of less than 15 miles east of Waikiki. Long ago, volcanic eruptions created this …
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, situated approximately 10 miles east of Waikiki, offers a delightful snorkeling experience with a variety of fascinating fish and marine creatures. This family-friendly destination is not only a popular spot for snorkel …
Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden Spread across 400 acres of lush land, the Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden is a haven for plant enthusiasts. Its diverse collection showcases vegetation from various tropical regions across the globe. You’ll find sections …
The Honolulu Museum of Art was established in 2011 through the merger of the Honolulu Academy of Arts and The Contemporary Museum. This museum is known for its diverse art collection, which covers a wide range of regions, artistic styles, and …
Looking for a fun place to take your kids? Consider visiting the Honolulu Zoo! It’s a 42-acre zoo located near Waikiki. You’ll find a wide range of animals here, such as rhinoceroses, elephants, cheetahs, giraffes, lions, primates, zebras, and more. …
Kailua Beach on the Windward Coast is the perfect spot for kite surfing, windsurfing, or simply enjoying the thrilling sight of others engaging in these sports. Whether you’re a family looking for a relaxing day or an adventure seeker craving an …
Kap’lolani Regional Park Kap’Iolani Regional Park is situated on the south end of Waikiki, and it boasts being one of the largest public parks on O’ahu. This park holds great significance as the second-oldest park on the island. It offers a variety …
At the top of Koko Head Crater, hikers can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of two beautiful landmarks: the Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve and Diamond Head State Monument. To reach this impressive vantage point, adventurers will embark on a moderate …
Kualoa Ranch is a must-visit if you’re interested in horseback riding, e-bike tours, zip lining, or jungle Jeep excursions during your vacation. The ranch is not only known for its breathtakingly beautiful landscape but also for being a paradise for …
Head northeast of downtown Honolulu for approximately 15 miles, and you’ll reach the Windward Coast. This area is home to two beloved beaches: Kailua Beach Park and Lanikai (or Ka’ohao) Beach. Among the two, Lanikai stands out for its serene …
The Lyon Arboretum, situated in the upper part of Manoa Valley, is a beautiful 200-acre arboretum and botanical garden. It is overseen by the University of Hawai’i at Manoa. This wonderful green space, located about 5 miles north of Waikiki, is home …
Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail Just a short distance away, about 6 miles northeast of the Koko Crater Trail, you’ll find the delightful Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail. This trail is only 2 miles long for a round trip, making it easier to hike …
Just five miles northeast of downtown Honolulu, you’ll find a stunning waterfall that stands about 150 feet tall. It’s incredibly easy to access and enjoy! All you need is the right footwear, insect repellent, some drinking water, and the energy to …
Back in ancient times in Hawaii, the Puowaina (Punchbowl) Crater had a different purpose—it was used for offering human sacrifices to the Polynesian gods. However, things have changed over the years. Today, this crater serves as the final resting …
O’ahu Diving & Snorkeling With over 1,200 miles of coral reef, the Hawaiian Islands offer plenty of opportunities for snorkeling and scuba diving. O’ahu, in particular, is a favorite destination for these activities. Immerse yourself in the clear …
O’ahu Surfing Surfing enthusiasts already know that O’ahu boasts some of the world’s most incredible surfing spots. When winter arrives and the waves are just right, professional surfers from all corners of the globe gather at O’ahu’s North Shore for …
The Pearl Harbor National Memorial is situated in the Central O’ahu region of the island, less than 10 miles away from downtown Honolulu. It holds great historical significance as it is home to the USS Arizona Memorial. This memorial serves as the …
Explore the fascinating heritage of the Pacific Islands, such as Hawaii, Fiji, Samoa, and Tahiti, at this captivating attraction. Spanning over 42 acres, the property showcases distinct “villages” that embody six diverse islands. Immerse yourself in …
Nestled near Diamond Head State Monument, this lavish oceanfront residence was once the winter retreat of Doris Duke, a generous philanthropist and heiress to the American tobacco fortune. Today, the home has been transformed into a captivating …
Situated in Pearl Harbor, just like the Battleship Missouri Memorial, you’ll find the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park. This remarkable submarine played a significant role during World War II, completing nine patrols. It holds a special place in …
In the past, Hawaiian royalty in the 19th century would visit Waikiki, a neighborhood in Honolulu, to unwind and enjoy surfing. Nowadays, many tourists also flock to this area for the same reasons. Waikiki Beach is renowned for its beautiful sandy …
Waimea Valley is an enchanting destination that offers not just breathtaking landscapes, but also holds immense historical and cultural significance to the Hawaiian people. This sacred site has deep roots in Hawaiian history and serves as a guardian …