10 BEST Things to do in Oahu, Hawaii 

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Looking for the absolute best things to do in Oahu? You’ve come to the right place!

Oahu is bursting with incredible experiences, but with so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to know where to start – but, that’s where I come in! 

After countless visits to this Hawaiian paradise, I’ve uncovered the absolute best adventures the island has to offer. Whether you crave adrenaline, cultural immersion, or serene sunsets, this curated list will guide you through Oahu’s most unforgettable moments. Keep reading for my list of must-do activities in Oahu!

Things to do in Oahu, Hawaii

1. Explore Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial

• Price: $94 – $171 USD
• Duration: 5 to 9 hours
• Time: 8 am
• Highlights: Visit Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial Center, learn about WWII history and watch a documentary on the infamous attack, drive by iconic landmarks in downtown Honolulu
• Inclusions: Hotel pick-up/drop-off, professional guide, national park fees, entry fees (depending on the option selected), bottled water
• Rating: 4.9 stars (check the 4,200+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes

Most people come to Hawaii to experience the pristine beaches and lush natural landscapes. But Oahu also has a lot of WWII history. We love to learn about the places we are visiting, so the last time we went to Honolulu, I made sure this Pearl Harbor tour was at the top of our itinerary!

From the moment I stepped onto the bus, I knew I was in for something special. Our guide provided insightful commentary as we drove past historical landmarks such as the Iolani Palace and Punchbowl National Cemetery, which serves as a tribute to those who served in the United States Armed Forces.

The real heart of the tour, though, was visiting Pearl Harbor. It was here that the infamous attack by Japan happened on December 7, 1941. We visited the USS Arizona Memorial and watched a short documentary on the attack. 

The film gave me goosebumps, but stepping onto the memorial itself was a moment I’ll never forget. Standing above the sunken battleship, surrounded by the names of the fallen, was deeply moving.

We opted for the Deluxe upgrade of the tour, so the USS Missouri battleship was up next. Touring the “Mighty Mo”, where World War II officially ended, was fascinating. For aviation buffs, we highly recommend doing the Ultimate upgrade that also adds on a visit to the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum.

We love that this tour wasn’t just sightseeing, but a journey through Honolulu’s history that left us in awe. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or just curious about Hawaii’s past, this experience is an absolute must-do – just look at the thousands of 5-star reviews here!

Book this popular tour here and access FREE cancellation 24 hours before you depart!

2. Tour the entire island in one day

• Price: $135 USD
• Duration: 9 hours
• Time: 6:30 am
• Highlights: See Oahu’s most iconic sights with a professional guide, learn about the island’s culture and history, tour the Dole Plantation and a macadamia nut farm
• Inclusions: Hotel pick-up/drop-off, professional guide, bottled water, snacks, air-conditioned transportation
• Rating: 5 stars (check the 14,000+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes

The first time we visited Oahu, there was so much to see and do that I wasn’t too sure how we were going to fit it all into one trip. Luckily, I found this full-day sightseeing tour of the island that helped tick a lot of things off my to-do list! 

Exploring Oahu in a single day sounds ambitious, but this tour does it seamlessly! It visits the greatest sights across Oahu and even though there were many stops during the day, the tour was planned so well that I never felt rushed.

Some of my favorite stops were the Diamond Head Lookout, which provides postcard-perfect views over the coast, and the Halona Blowhole, which can shoot water up to 30 feet (9 meters) in the air! Tasting fresh pineapple at the Dole Plantation and macadamia nuts straight from the farm was definitely up there for me as well.

Although, one of my favorite parts was simply wandering around the North Shore on our own. It was super relaxed and we got to pick up some unique Oahu souvenirs!

We think this tour is perfect for first-time visitors who want to learn more about the island and see many of its iconic sights in a short amount of time. I mean, with 13,000+ 5-star reviews (see them here!), you know it’s got to be good!

Check availability and secure your spot in advance here!

3. Go snorkeling with sea turtles

• Price: $87 USD
• Duration: 2 hours
• Time: Multiple departure times throughout the day
• Highlights: Head to Waikiki’s famous Turtle Canyon to snorkel with Hawaiian green sea turtles, view a variety of other marine life, enjoy snacks on the boat 
• Inclusions: Professional guide, snorkeling equipment, snacks, light refreshments
• Rating: 4.8 stars (check the 4,000+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes

Ever since I saw that sea turtle while snorkeling on the North Shore, I knew I needed to get back in the water and spend more time with these magnificent creatures – so I booked this Waikiki snorkel excursion!

​​The experience started with a quick briefing from our guide, who made sure everyone felt confident in the water before we set off toward Turtle Canyon. All the snorkeling gear was provided, so you don’t have to worry about packing anything extra which is a huge bonus!

As soon as I dipped below the surface, it felt like stepping into another world. Hawaiian green sea turtles (aka “honu”), glided gracefully around the reef, sometimes coming so close I could see the intricate patterns on their shells!

There was also a variety of other colorful fish swimming all around me. It was so much fun watching the schools of fish darting around the reef.

And above water, the excitement didn’t stop! Spinner dolphins made a surprise appearance as we were having a snack on the boat. It was the perfect way to end this amazing 2-hour experience. 

This tour is my all-time favorite activity in Oahu, and I’m not alone as it has over 3,700 5-star reviews! It is only 2 hours long so it’s easy to fit into any busy travel itinerary, and the $87 USD price tag is pretty great considering this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. 

Secure your spot on my favorite Oahu experience here before it sells out!

4. See a traditional Mauka Warriors Luau

• Price: $139 – $229 USD
• Duration: 4 hours
• Time: 5:15 pm
• Highlights: Indulge in delicious island cuisine, learn about Polynesia’s history, take part in authentic Polynesian activities, watch exciting performances such as fire and hula dancing
• Inclusions: All-you-can-eat Polynesian buffet, hands-on activities, exciting performances, transportation (if option selected)
• Rating: 4.8 stars (check the 1,500+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes

Seeing a Hawaiian Luau was something that was always high on my travel bucket list! But after speaking with some other travelers, I learned that not all luau’s are built the same. Some people were disappointed in their luau experience, stating that it wasn’t very authentic. 

So on my quest for Oahu’s best luau, I came across this traditional Mauka Warriors Luau. This luau has over 1,300 5-star reviews and claims to offer an authentic experience unlike any other. So I went ahead and booked it – and boy was I glad I did!

The evening started with some fun hands-on Polynesian activities, like weaving, learning hula steps, or getting temporary Polynesian tattoos. It was such a fun way to connect with the island culture before the main event.

Then came the all-you-can-eat feast full of incredible Polynesian flavors such as tender kalua pork and sweet grilled pineapple. Make sure you come hungry, because there is a lot of food! 

The highlight of the evening was the traditional performance. The dancers told stories of Polynesia’s warriors and the Great Battle of Kipapa through mesmerizing hula and fire-knife dances. We love how they combined the Polynesian history and culture, making this experience so much more than just a dinner and a show!

This experience’s prices vary depending on where you want to sit. If your budget allows, we recommend upgrading to the Mo’i Package, which offers seating in the front, 4 drinks tickets, and a premium souvenir gift. But honestly, even if you are sitting in the back row, this experience is still worth it! 

Reserve your Luau tickets now and pay later when you book here!

5. Take a helicopter flight over Oahu

• Price: $350 – $390 USD
• Duration: 1 hour 35 minutes
• Time: Multiple departure times throughout the day
• Highlights: Enjoying an exhilarating 50-minute “doors-off” helicopter flight over Oahu, see iconic landmarks and remote areas, learn about the island from your pilot’s commentary
• Inclusions: Expert pilot, open-door helicopter ride, local taxes
• Rating: 4.9 stars (check the 1,100+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes

We have been lucky enough to go on a few helicopter rides during our travels, but none have been as scenic as this helicopter flight over Oahu!

There is truly no better way to experience the vast beauty of this island than from the air, taking in views of the mountains, lush valleys, and waterfalls. We also flew over some of the island’s most iconic sights like Pearl Harbor and the Halona Blowhole while our pilot provided interesting commentary.

Our pilot even pointed out Ka’a’awa Valley – where Jurassic Park and many other Hollywood blockbusters were filmed. Even if you have seen these areas from the ground, seeing them from the sky offers a whole new perspective!

Oh, and the best thing about this experience? The helicopter had no doors! While this might freak some people out, don’t worry, you are safely strapped in. The lack of doors made the experience even more exciting and allowed us to have unobstructed views of the island and ocean below – keep your eyes peeled for any whales jumping in the distance!

And with only 4 guests allowed in each helicopter, everyone had a good view. If you want an even better view though, you can upgrade to “first-class seating” for an extra $40 USD each, where you are guaranteed to sit up front with the pilot. Just note that this option can only be booked in pairs of two people. 

Book this tour with over 1,000 5-star reviews here, before it sells out!

6. Go parasailing

• Price: $89 – $111 USD
• Duration: 1 hour
• Time: Multiple departure times throughout the day
• Highlights: Soaring above the water, the scenic views, encouraging crew
• Inclusions: Parasailing experience, experienced crew, fuel surcharge
• Rating: 4.8 stars (check the 5,800+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes

If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush with unbeatable views, this parasailing adventure from Waikiki is the way to go! Dan and I recently took to the skies the last time we were in Oahu, and it was nothing short of epic.

We started at Kewalo Basin Harbor, where we got a quick safety briefing, then were strapped into a harness and ready for takeoff. As the boat sped up, we were gently lifted into the air and were soon soaring 700 feet (213 meters) above the crystal-clear waters of Oahu’s southern coast.

The views of the city from above were absolutely breathtaking. We could see the Diamond Head crater in the distance, and the turquoise ocean stretched all around us. It honestly feels like you’re flying! 

For those wanting to crank up the adventure, there’s an option to upgrade to an 800-foot (244 meter) or 1,000-foot (305 meter) line, but 700 feet was plenty thrilling for me.

If you’re traveling with someone who wants to go parasailing, but it’s not really your thing, you can book to go on the boat as an observer only for a reduced rate. No matter what option you choose, make sure you bring some extra cash along if you want to buy the photo and GoPro packages.

Parasailing is safe, exhilarating, and offers a perspective of Oahu you simply can’t get from the ground. If you don’t believe me, just have a look at the 5,000+ 5-star reviews!

Don’t miss out – secure this thrilling parasailing tour here!

7. Try out scuba diving on a beginner-friendly tour

• Price: $109 USD
• Duration: 1.5 hours
• Time: 8 am, 10 am, 12 pm, 2 pm
• Highlights: Learn the basics of scuba diving from a professional diver, explore Hawaii’s underwater world, get GoPro footage of your dive
• Inclusions: Professional guide, all equipment and gear, GoPro video of your dive
• Rating: 4.9 stars (check the 2,900+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes

If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring the underwater wonders of Hawaii, this beginner scuba diving adventure in Honolulu is the perfect place to start. With no certification required, it’s the perfect opportunity to take the plunge and try out this incredible activity!

I’ve done a lot of scuba diving before, so I didn’t go on this tour, but friends of ours did, and they said it was the most incredible experience (they aren’t the only ones, look at all these great reviews)! 

The adventure begins right on the beach, where you’ll be fitted with wetsuits and professional scuba gear. After a quick and easy safety briefing, your guide will bring you into waist-deep water to get comfortable with breathing through the regulator. Our friends said the instructor was so calm and encouraging, making it seem effortless!

Once everyone is feeling comfortable, you will venture deeper into the Pacific Ocean, and the real magic begins! You’ll be surrounded by vibrant coral, dazzling tropical fish, and maybe even a few sea turtles if you’re lucky. The last time I went diving in Hawaii I even saw an octopus!

The best part? Your guide will capture the entire dive on a GoPro! You’ll get the footage at the end of the dive so you can relive the experience and share it with friends.

This scuba lesson is perfect for first-timers or anyone looking to refresh their skills in a low-pressure environment. We love that it’s in a small group setting, so you will get lots of one-on-one attention. By the end, you’ll feel like a natural underwater explorer! 

This experience starts at multiple times per day and lasts for about 1.5 hours. So if you’re curious about exploring Hawaii’s underwater world, don’t hesitate to add this to your itinerary!

Check the departure schedule and secure your spot on this underwater adventure here!

8. Get your adrenaline pumping on a zipline

• Price: $193 USD
• Duration: 2.5 hours
• Time: 8 am, 8:20 am, 9 am, 9:20 am, 12:20pm, 12:40 pm
• Highlights: Ride an ATV to the top of a mountain, zipline on Oahu’s longest ziplines with ocean and mountain views, enjoy rappelling, sky bridges, and boardwalks along the way
• Inclusions: All necessary equipment, professional guide, taxes and fees, water, free parking
• Rating: 5 stars (check the 3,200+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes

Hawaii is known for its incredible natural scenery and its adventure tourism, so why not combine both on this epic zipline tour? This tour takes you on Oahu’s longest ziplines, and let me tell you, it’s an adrenaline rush you won’t forget!

The journey starts with an ATV ride through the lush Hawaiian jungle. Bouncing up the mountain trails, I couldn’t help but take in the breathtaking panoramic views along the North Shore. This scenic ride really set the tone for an epic day!

Once we reached the top of the mountain, the real adventure began. The ziplines ranged from 500 (152 meters) to 2,400 feet (732 meters) long, and each one offered a new perspective of the stunning landscape. Flying over treetops with the wind in my face was exhilarating!

But this tour isn’t just about the ziplines – it’s a full-on jungle experience. We crossed sky bridges, rappelled down ropes, and walked scenic boardwalks, all with the guidance of an awesome and safety-focused crew. 

Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or just looking to try something new, this tour delivers. It’s non-stop fun from start to finish, and we think it is worth every cent of the $193 USD price tag. 

Read the thousands of 5-star reviews and secure your spot here!

9. Relax on a sunset cruise

• Price: $85 – $121 USD
• Duration: 2 hours
• Time: 5 pm
• Highlights: Cruise along Waikiki’s coast on a premium catamaran to watch the sunset, spot marine life like dolphins and whales, see iconic Waikiki landmarks from the water
• Inclusions: Experienced captain and crew, 1 alcoholic beverage
• Rating: 4.9 stars (check the 1,700+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes

There’s nothing in the world quite like a Hawaiian sunset, so we jumped at the chance to do this sunset catamaran cruise the last time we were in Oahu. Watching the sun go down over the Waikiki coast was pure magic!

We set sail from Kewalo Harbor just as golden hour began, and were welcomed on board with a premium cocktail. The catamaran itself was spacious and comfortable, with plenty of room to soak in the views along Waikiki’s iconic coastline.

As the sun dipped lower, the sky exploded into a masterpiece of color – deep oranges, soft pinks, and vivid purples all blending together. The silhouette of Diamond Head against this vibrant backdrop was like something out of a postcard.

But it wasn’t just the sunset that stole the show. We spotted playful dolphins jumping out of the water and from November to May, you might even catch sight of majestic humpback whales making their seasonal migration. The friendly crew also shared lots of interesting facts with us about the surrounding landmarks and marine life, which really enhanced the experience 

The cruise includes one complimentary cocktail, and any additional drinks cost $8 USD, which is pretty reasonable. You can also upgrade to the VIP experience for an additional $36 USD each, which includes a souvenir cup and allows you to board the boat first to get a good seat.

Click here to reserve your spot on this premium sunset cruise!

10. Do a shark dive in an underwater cage

• Price: $126 USD
• Duration: 1.5 hours
• Time: Multiple start times throughout the day
• Highlights: Observe wild sharks from the safety of an underwater cage, and have the chance to view other marine life while on the boat ride to the shark viewing spot
• Inclusions: Expert crew, use of snorkeling equipment, taxes/fees
• Rating: 4.8 stars (check the 2,300+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes

If you’re looking for an adrenaline-packed adventure that’ll leave you with stories for a lifetime, then this shark cage diving experience off Oahu’s North Shore is the way to go!

Anyone who knows Dan and I knows how adventurous we are. There isn’t much that scares me, but I’ll admit, the idea of getting into a cage with these majestic predators circling nearby gave me goosebumps!

We took the scenic boat ride out into the Pacific, and after a thorough safety briefing from the expert crew (who are pros at reading shark behavior), it was time to gear up and step into the cage.

Once submerged, I was blown away by the clarity of the water, visibility stretched up to 200 feet! And then, there they were – graceful Galapagos and Sandbar sharks swimming just inches away. My heart was racing, but it was absolutely incredible watching these amazing creatures up close!

For those who prefer staying dry, you can choose the “observer option” when booking. This allows you to come out on the boat and observe the sharks from above instead of in the cage. This is a great option if you are traveling with someone who wants to do the cage experience, but you aren’t too keen to do it yourself.

Whichever option you choose, this experience is guaranteed to be unforgettable. It is very highly rated with over 2,100 5-star reviews, so it tends to book up quickly. It is one of the best things I’ve ever done – and that’s saying a lot! 

Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime experience, secure your spot here!

Where to Stay in Oahu, Hawaii

There are many different areas you can stay on Oahu. We stayed in Honolulu, near Waikiki Beach, and found it very convenient to reach Oahu’s top activities. I’ll leave my top Honolulu recommendations below, but if you’re looking for a quieter stay, there are options all over the island! 

Luxury – $$$

Hilton Grand Vacations Club at Hilton Hawaiian Village is a guaranteed luxury stay! The hotel is just steps from Waikiki Beach, and close to downtown. In true Hilton fashion, the rooms are upscale and the staff take care of every need. You can enjoy the onsite pools, golf course, 10 different restaurants, or spa. 

Prices vary by season, but average around $450 USD – $650 USD per night. Check prices and book this stay on Booking.com.

Mid-range – $$

If you’re looking for a comfortable stay with a great location, Hyatt Place Waikiki Beach is my pick! You don’t have to break the bank to stay within walking distance of Waikiki Beach, rooms get as low as $180 USD (although ocean view rooms are much more expensive!). Or you can enjoy the pool, fitness center, and city center from the hotel too. 

Check availability and book this stay on Booking.com.

Budget – $

Aqua Aloha Surf Waikiki is a budget hotel that doesn’t skimp on quality! They offer moderate, superior, or deluxe double rooms that are well-kept, clean, and have everything you need for a comfortable stay. Including a pool and rooms with private balconies! 

Prices range from $120 USD to $200 USD, which isn’t bad considering the location. Check prices and book a room on Booking.com.

For even more options, check out all the hotels in Oahu here. 

Thanks for reading!

Oahu, Hawaii is a popular travel destination for a reason – it’s insanely beautiful! On top of that, there are so many unique activities here, that our itinerary was jam-packed. If you check off even a few items on this list, I know you’ll have an unforgettable vacation on this Hawaiian island.

If you found this post helpful, be sure to check out our other travel guides. We’ve been all over the world and have resources whether you’re looking for tropical, mountainous, city, or charming quaint destinations. I’ll leave a few of my favorite places below to help you plan your next adventure!

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