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Planning a trip to Oahu and feeling overwhelmed by all the options? We’ve got you covered.
This five-day itinerary is based on our own travels and is designed to help you experience the best of Oahu without feeling overwhelmed. From iconic sights like Diamond Head and Pearl Harbor to helicopter rides, sunset cruises, snorkeling with sea turtles, and exploring the island’s best beaches, it strikes a great balance of adventure, culture, and island vibes. You’ll find our favorite tours, practical tips, and firsthand recommendations to make planning your trip easy and stress-free.
The most common way to get around Oahu is by renting a car, which gives you the flexibility to explore, especially when visiting beaches, hikes, and other must-see spots.
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did was this full island tour! Cruising around with our local guide made it easy to see top sights around the island, such as Diamond Head Lookout, the Dole Plantation, North Shore, and more.
Check out the 15,000+ 5-star reviews and book this tour here!
Day 1
See all of Oahu on a full-day tour
We kicked off our Oahu adventure with an early wake-up call and were out the door by 6:30 am for our first big day. I’m not usually a morning person on vacation, but this full-day Oahu sightseeing tour was absolutely worth the early start.
It includes hotel pickup from various points in Honolulu, so it was an easy start to a full day of fun.
This tour covers so many of Oahu’s most iconic spots that I honestly felt like we ticked off half our bucket list in the first day, without ever feeling rushed. The pacing was spot on, and the mix of viewpoints, historic landmarks, and fun food stops kept things interesting from start to finish.
Some highlights included postcard-worthy views from Diamond Head Lookout, the Halona Blowhole shooting water nearly 30 feet (9 meters) high, fresh pineapple at the Dole Plantation, and roasted macadamia nuts straight from the farm. My personal favorite part was wandering on the quiet North Shore, which felt entirely different than the bustling vibe of Waikiki.
One of the best parts, though, was the ease of this day! With our local guide leading us around, we saw corners of Oahu that we usually couldn’t have in a short 5-day trip.
Everything wraps up around 4 pm, allowing just enough time to relax and freshen up before dinner. For first-time visitors, this tour is a no-brainer. You see so much of the island in one day, and with over 15,000 five-star reviews, it clearly delivers.
Don’t miss out – check availability and secure your spot in advance here!
Dinner – Duke’s
After a full day of exploring Oahu, Duke’s is the perfect spot to unwind. Right on Waikiki Beach, this iconic restaurant serves up ocean views, tiki bar charm, and live Hawaiian music that instantly sets the tone for a relaxed evening.
Yes, it’s on the pricier side, but for your first night on Oahu, the beachfront setting makes it worth every penny. Grab a mai tai, settle in for sunset, and enjoy local favorites like macadamia nut-crusted fish and their famous hula pie.
We definitely recommend making a reservation, especially around sunset. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to linger, soaking up the views and starting to dream about the adventures still ahead.
Day 2
Morning – Hike the Diamond Head Crater
No trip to Oahu is complete without hiking Diamond Head Crater, and we totally get the hype. This dormant volcanic crater is one of the island’s most iconic landmarks, and the panoramic views from the summit are some of the best you’ll find on the island.
The trail is just 1.6 miles (2.6 km) round-trip and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to complete. It’s a moderately challenging climb due to the incline, but the path is paved and easy to follow. The trailhead is only a 15-minute drive from downtown Honolulu, making it an easy morning activity. Since this is such a popular hike, out-of-state visitors must make a reservation in advance ($5 USD per person, plus $10 USD per car for parking), and spots can be booked up to two weeks ahead. But if that all sounds like a headache, we’ve got a great alternative.
We did this self-guided tour, and it was the most convenient option by far. For $40, it includes round-trip transportation from Waikiki, park entrance, a map, and bottled water. The driver gives you everything you need, then drops you off at the trail and tells you when to be back. You hike at your own pace and enjoy those stunning views from 760 feet (232 meters) up—no stress, no planning. It’s a simple, active way to kick off the day and see one of Oahu’s most famous sights.
Enjoy this hike stress-free when you book this tour here!
Afternoon – Relax on a beach
It wouldn’t be a trip to Oahu without carving out some time to embrace your inner beach bum fully. After an active morning, find somewhere to grab a quick lunch so you can get to the beach. The afternoon is all yours to soak up the sun, take a dip, and enjoy that island pace.
Whether you want to stay close or take a short drive for a change of scenery, here are some of our favorite beach options. We will be visiting the North Shore and the Windward Coast later on in this itinerary, so save those for later!
- Waikiki Beach – The most famous beach on Oahu, and it’s right in the heart of Honolulu. It’s always buzzing with activity, perfect for people-watching, swimming, or just lying out with an iced coffee in hand.
- Ala Moana Beach – This is a great option for swimming, just a few minutes west of Waikiki. The beach is protected by reefs, so the water is very calm. Here, you’ll find the Magic Island Lagoon, which is the perfect place to swim for kids!
- Sandy Beach – This one’s about a 20-minute drive from Honolulu and is for wave lovers. It’s a favorite local spot for bodyboarding and surfing thanks to its strong shore break. Plus, there are food trucks nearby when you get hungry.
- Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve – The spot for snorkeling on Oahu—just 20 minutes from Honolulu, with crystal-clear water, vibrant coral, and tons of marine life. As a protected nature preserve, it requires a bit of planning: you must arrive before 1:30 pm, and advance reservations ($25 USD) are released two days prior here, with limited walk-ins available. It’s a bit more effort than other beaches, but totally worth it!
Prefer more action? Parasailing and scuba diving are also great ways to enjoy the water without sitting still.
Go Parasailing
This parasailing adventure takes off right from Honolulu and offers unbeatable views and an unforgettable thrill. We soared 700 feet (213 meters) above the coast, taking in Diamond Head and the turquoise ocean below. You can upgrade to 800 or 1,000 feet (244 or 305 meters), or join as a boat observer if flying’s not your thing.
Don’t forget extra cash for photo and GoPro packages! It’s a quick and exciting way to see the island from a whole new perspective—without leaving the city.
Be sure to book your 1-hour parasailing adventure here to secure your spot!
Beginner-friendly scuba dive
If you’ve ever wanted to try scuba diving, this beginner-friendly scuba adventure in Honolulu is the perfect way to start—no certification needed! We gave it a go and were blown away by how easy and exciting it was. The instructor was calm and super encouraging, which made us feel totally at ease.
After a short beachside lesson, we dove into the Pacific and were surrounded by coral and tropical fish. We even spotted a sea turtle! The best part is that it’s all captured on GoPro to relive later!
Dip your toes into scuba diving and book this tour here!
Evening – Enjoy a sunset cruise
There’s nothing quite like a Hawaiian sunset, and one of the best ways to experience it is from the water. After a relaxing afternoon on the beach, we freshened up at the hotel and made our way to Kewalo Harbor for this unforgettable sunset catamaran cruise.
The cruise departs at 5 pm sharp, so give yourself time to get cleaned up and arrive a little early. Once on board, we were welcomed with a premium drink and found a comfy spot on the spacious catamaran. The vibe was relaxed, the views were unreal, and the gentle motion of the boat along Waikiki’s coastline made it feel like the perfect end to the day.
As the sun dipped toward the horizon, the sky lit up with glowing pinks, fiery oranges, and soft purples, with Diamond Head silhouetted perfectly in the distance. We even spotted a few dolphins leaping nearby, and depending on the season (November to May), you might get lucky and see humpback whales too.
The cruise includes one complimentary drink, and you can also upgrade to VIP, which lets you board early for the best seat and comes with a souvenir cup. The whole experience lasts about two hours, returning around 7 pm, just in time to carry that sunset glow into the rest of your night!
Click here to reserve your spot on this premium sunset cruise!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Dinner – Aloha Table Waikiki
After your sunset cruise, keep the evening going with a taste of local flavors at Aloha Table Waikiki. Just an 11-minute drive from the harbor, this cozy, open-air spot is the perfect place to unwind with Hawaiian comfort food and tropical drinks.
From garlic shrimp to loco moco and kalua pork, the menu highlights all the island favorites—perfect for wrapping up a day full of adventure and aloha. The atmosphere is relaxed but lively, with a neighborhood feel that makes you want to stay awhile.
We recommend making a reservation in advance, especially if you’re arriving right after sunset, since it tends to fill up quickly in the evening. It’s a great final stop before calling it a night!
Related Read: For more of our favorite city itineraries, check out our ultimate 3-day Phoenix, Arizona itinerary here!
Day 3
Make your way to the North Shore
Today is going to be full of epic views and some adrenaline-pumping activities (spoiler alert: ziplining!), so after your morning cup of joe and breakfast, it’s time to make your way to the North Shore. It takes about one hour to drive from Honolulu to the zipline tour, and you can take the Windward Coast there or go through the island. We personally suggest following the coast for some spectacular morning views.
The tour has multiple start times, so if you aren’t an early riser, don’t worry about it. Keep in mind that an earlier start means more time to explore (and it’s not as hot), so we think either the 9 or 10 am start times are perfect.
Morning – Get your adrenaline pumping on a zipline adventure
Once you get to Kahuku, the real fun begins! The North Shore is known for its incredible natural scenery and adventurous lifestyle, so 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!
There are multiple start times for this tour, but since we had the long drive from Honolulu, we selected the 10 am slot. Be sure to reserve this tour early, as the peak times fill up quickly!
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 feet (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 lasts for 2.5 hours and is non-stop fun from start to finish!
Read the thousands of 5-star reviews and secure your spot here!
Lunch – Stop for lunch in Kahuku
Ziplining was pretty dang fun, huh? I don’t know about you, but afterwards we had worked up quite the appetite! If your stomach is rumbling, stop at nearby Kahuku for lunch. This small town is loaded with fantastic places to eat. We’ve got a few suggestions below depending on what you’re craving.
- Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck – This is exactly what it sounds like. A spot that serves up mouth-watering shrimp with rice and some nice outdoor seating. Garlic shrimp, lemon and butter, hot and spicy, the list goes on!
- Ry’s Poke Shack – A dynamite spot that specializes in poke bowls and was featured on Netflix’s “Street Foods”. Perfect for those of you who want something extra healthy and filling, but also light and easy to digest. The ingredients are fresh, and with ten varieties of poke, you’re sure to find something you’ll love!
- Seven Brothers – When you’re craving a burger, nothing else will do – we get it! In that case, head to Seven Brothers for some hearty burgers that will have you patting your stomach in satisfaction afterwards.
Afternoon – Explore the North Shore at your own pace
North Shore is (and I’m not being dramatic) one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world. Made up of rugged beaches that are contrasted by deep blue water and lush jungles, a trip to Oahu isn’t complete without exploring it at your own leisure.
After lunch, spend a few hours zig-zagging up the coast and admiring the views. Below, we will name a few of our favorite stops along the way.
- Sunset Beach Park – If you want some sand between your toes to go with your views, Sunset Beach Park is a great choice. A laid-back stretch of beach where you can dip your toes into the water or just sit and look at the ocean. We recommend coming back here for the sunset later, so if you plan on doing that, you can skip it for now.
- Banzai Pipeline (Ehukai Beach Park) – A lot like Sunset Beach Park, but with a lot more surfers. As surfers ourselves, we enjoy coming here to watch others and chat up the friendly locals.
- Pupukea Beach Park – Made up of tide pools filled with sea creatures, Pupukea Beach Park is a great spot to hop around on rocks and look at little fish. It’s more dramatic than the options above and doesn’t have anywhere to really sit down, but it’s a lovely little adventure.
- Waimea Bay and Waimea Falls – Waimea Bay strikes the perfect balance between casual beach, cool big rocks to climb on, and excellent swimming. It’s a local favorite! Meanwhile, Waimea Falls is a casual 30-minute hike into the jungle and a wonderful spot to swim. Parking is free, but entrance into the park is $25 USD.
- Laniakea Beach – Sea turtles and surfers. Need I say more? You can see both of these classic Hawaii sights at this beach, just please don’t touch the turtles!
- Haleʻiwa Aliʻi Beach Park – We love this park because it has some great walking paths and plenty to see. There’s a nice little marina, a beach where you can sit and swim, some rugged shoreline, and if you’re lucky, you might even see some turtles. It’s a good all-around spot to hang out for a while.
- Matsumoto Shave Ice – Not a beach, but darn good shaved ice! If you need a tasty cool-down treat after exploring the North Shore, this is the best place to get one.
Evening – Sunset Beach for sunset
If you want to see one of the best sunsets on Oahu, make your way to Sunset Beach. Since Hawaii is so close to the equator, the sun sets earlier, so make sure to check what time the sun goes down that day! Keep in mind that you’ll have to make the 1-hour drive back to Honolulu in the dark, so if you don’t want to do that, get here a little early and leave early.
Once you’re back in town, if you are ready for dinner, we suggest going to The Elephant Shack for some great Thai food. Grab your food to go and take it out to the beach!
Related Read: Planning on visiting a few islands while in Hawaii? See the 10 best things to do in Maui here!
Day 4
Morning – Visit Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial
By day four, we were ready to trade sandy beaches for history, so we joined this full-day Pearl Harbor and Honolulu city tour. For anyone even remotely interested in WWII or U.S. history, this is a must.
For the best experience, we recommend the 5-hour Pearl Harbor Experience Tour. It’s a balance of immersive information, but in a half-day tour, so you have time to explore more of Oahu. If you’re a true history buff, there are full-day tours available!
With pickup between 7:55 and 8:40 am, this tour includes a guided drive through historic Honolulu, and the commentary really elevated the experience, helping us get our bearings and appreciate landmarks like Iolani Palace and Punchbowl National Cemetery.
The most significant part of the day was visiting Pearl Harbor itself. We watched a documentary on the events of December 7, 1941, before taking a boat out to the USS Arizona Memorial. Standing over the sunken ship, surrounded by the names of those who lost their lives, was deeply moving.
This was one of those places that we’d heard so much about, but seeing it in real life really made an impact on us.
Our tour wrapped up around 1 pm, and we left feeling like we had truly connected with the history of this place. You could visit Pearl Harbor on your own, but this guided experience adds so much more depth. It’s storytelling, education, and reflection all in one!
Book this popular tour here and experience the full story of Pearl Harbor!
Afternoon – Explore the Windward Coast
The Pearl Harbor tour will end around 1 pm, which gives you the rest of the afternoon to explore the east coast of Oahu, also known as the Windward Coast. It’s only a 20-minute drive away, and you get to pass over a stunning mountain range with lush jungles and views of the ocean. There is plenty to do on this side of the island, which we will outline below!
- Kailua Beach and Waimanalo Beach – If you’re after turquoise waters and perfect swimming conditions, you can’t go wrong with either of these beaches. I would argue that they are some of the prettiest beaches on Oahu! Waimanalo Beach is often quieter than Kailua Beach since the town is smaller, so we enjoy starting there, but both are worth seeing and close to each other.
- Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden – If you want to see just how beautiful and varied Oahu’s flora is, head to the botanical garden for a gorgeous stroll through the island’s native plants. It’s incredibly peaceful and has a small lake and stunning views of the nearby mountains.
- Byodo-In Temple – A small but lovely Japanese Buddhist temple tucked into the mountains. It’s actually part of the Valley of Temples Memorial Park, where thousands of Hawaiians are buried from multiple religions and denominations. It’s a peaceful area to walk, enjoy the architecture, and take in the views.
- Lanikani Pillbox Hike – A short and sweet, moderately challenging hike that rewards you with unbeatable views of the ocean and the surrounding landscape. Definitely worth working up a sweat to see! We also think the bunkers from WWII along the way are super cool.
Evening – Dinner and drinks in Kailua
There are tons of great places to eat and drink in Kailua, so instead of heading back to Honolulu, let’s mix it up and spend the evening here instead.
We like a good pre-dinner drink, and our favorite spot in Kailua to get these is Lanikai Brewing Company (yay beer!) for either craft brews or delicious cocktails. Afterwards, the Paia FishMarket is literally around the corner and has some amazing fresh seafood. I highly recommend the Cajun-style Mahi Mahi. And if you don’t love seafood, you’ll be happy to know they have a large menu with other options like burgers, salads, and grilled chicken.
Day 5
Morning – See Oahu from above on a doors-off helicopter flight
By our final day, we wanted to see Oahu from a whole new angle—literally. We’ve taken a few helicopter flights on past trips, but nothing came close to the jaw-dropping views we got on this doors-off helicopter ride over the island.
The 50-minute flight takes you over some of the island’s most iconic landmarks, including Pearl Harbor, the Halona Blowhole, and the lush, cinematic Ka’a’awa Valley—aka the real-life setting of Jurassic Park. Flying above the coastline, waterfalls, and mountain ridges gave us a whole new appreciation for the island’s natural beauty. Even places we’d already seen from the ground looked completely different from the air.
The doors-off part was a thrill on its own. You’re safely strapped in, of course, but there’s nothing between you and the open sky—just wind in your face and unobstructed views in every direction. We even spotted a few whales breaching in the distance!
With only four guests per helicopter, every seat gets a great view. For an even better one, we recommend upgrading to first-class seating. It guarantees you a front-row seat next to the pilot (just note this upgrade can only be booked in pairs).
We suggest booking the 10 am flight (or 8:30 am if it’s sold out) for the best light and smoother air. Just don’t forget—you’ll need to arrive 45 minutes before departure, so plan accordingly. Trust us, this is one of those experiences that sticks with you. Don’t just take our word for it, check out the five-star reviews here to see why this is a top-rated tour!
This tour is likely to sell out – reserve it here and pay later!
Lunch – Castro’s
After the helicopter tour, we were ready to sit down and refuel, and Castro’s hit the spot. Just a short walk from our hotel, this laid-back Cuban café served up hearty plates and tropical flavors that felt perfect for a midday break. We ordered the Cuban sandwich and ropa vieja, both packed with flavor and super satisfying without being too heavy.
Since the afternoon is all about relaxing at the beach, this lunch stop is flexible. You can take your time and enjoy a sit-down meal at Castro’s (the iced café con leche is also worth trying), or grab something quick nearby if you’re eager to stretch out on the sand. Either way, this is your moment to slow down and reset before soaking in the rest of the day.
Afternoon – Browse Waikiki’s shops or relax on a beach
With just a little time left in the afternoon, we kept things simple and took a leisurely stroll through Waikiki’s shops. This area is full of everything from beachy boutiques and local art galleries to big-name brands and souvenir stands, so it’s the perfect chance to grab a few last-minute gifts or keepsakes.
If you find yourself with even more time, hit the beach! Luckily, you won’t need to go far. Waikiki Beach, Queen’s Beach, and Kapiolani Beach are all nearby and perfect for a few lazy hours in the sun.
Afternoon – Go snorkeling with sea turtles
Finish off your trip with a bang on this 2-hour snorkel tour to Turtle Canyon, right off the coast of Waikiki. We’d heard this was one of the best places to see sea turtles up close, and it did not disappoint.
Book the 3 pm tour, which will wrap up by 5 pm. This gives you plenty of time to relax in the afternoon and make your way to the meeting point for the tour.
We started with a quick, easy briefing from the guide, who made sure everyone felt comfortable before heading out. All snorkeling gear is provided, so there’s no need to bring anything extra—just show up ready to swim!
As soon as we dipped beneath the surface, it felt like we entered a different world. Hawaiian green sea turtles (or honu) glided effortlessly around the reef, sometimes so close we could see the fine patterns on their shells. Schools of colorful fish swirled all around, making it just as beautiful above the reef as below.
Back on the boat, we were treated to a surprise visit from a pod of spinner dolphins while snacking and soaking up the sun. Between the marine life, the views, and the smooth ride, this was easily one of our favorite experiences on Oahu—and with over 3,000 five-star reviews, we’re definitely not the only ones who think so!
It’s an unforgettable way to experience the ocean, especially if you’ve never tried diving before.
Check the schedule and secure this underwater adventure here!
Dinner – Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ
After a full-day history tour, we were more than ready to slow things down, and Gyu-Kaku was just the spot. This Japanese BBQ joint in Waikiki is casual, fun, and exactly what you want after a long day: a relaxed dinner that you cook right at your table.
Honolulu has no shortage of excellent Asian cuisine, and this was one of our favorites. The menu is filled with tasty combos, from marinated short ribs to garlic shrimp and sizzling veggies. We loved grilling everything ourselves and sharing it all family-style—it felt like a cozy, interactive meal without being too heavy.
Since it’s right in Waikiki, it’s perfect for a low-key evening. After dinner, we wandered the area, browsed a few shops, and maybe grabbed a little dessert on the way back to the hotel. It was the perfect way to wrap up our 5 days on Oahu!
Where to Stay on Oahu
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 – $$$
Hilton Grand Vacations Club at Hilton Hawaiian Village is a guaranteed luxury stay! The hotel is just steps from Waikiki Beach and close to downtown. In true Hilton fashion, the rooms are upscale, and the staff takes care of every need. You can enjoy the onsite pools, golf course, 10 different restaurants, or spa.
Prices vary by season, but average around $450 USD – $650 USD per night. Check prices and book this stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
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.
Related Read: If you’re planning on basing yourself in Honolulu, check out our Where to Stay in Honolulu guide for the best areas and hotels!
Renting a Car in the USA
The United States is a vast country with diverse landscapes, from bustling cities to scenic national parks. While public transportation exists in major cities, renting a car is often the best way to explore the country’s wide-open spaces and hidden gems.
We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find the right vehicle for your needs, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in the USA
- Drive on the right: In the U.S., vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road, and the driver’s seat is on the left. If this is different than your home country, take some time to adjust before hitting busy streets!
- Know the local rules: Speed limits, road signs, and driving laws can differ between states. For example, turning right on red is generally allowed after a complete stop, unless a sign indicates otherwise. Always check the specific rules for the states you’ll be driving in.
- Add full insurance: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance, especially in the U.S., where long distances, varying road conditions, and unpredictable weather can lead to unexpected situations. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable!) to add this peace of mind when you book.
- Choose the right car: Consider the nature of your trip. For city driving, a compact car is convenient, while for road trips or national park visits, an SUV might be more comfortable. With Discover Cars, it’s easy to filter by vehicle type, transmission, fuel efficiency, and more to find the perfect fit.
What You Need to Rent a Car in the USA
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in English or uses a non-Roman alphabet. Some rental companies may require it, so it’s best to check in advance.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the USA on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
While we wanted to stay in Hawaii forever, five days on Oahu proved to be the perfect amount of time! This is the exact itinerary we followed, and we found it to be a great balance of adventure and relaxation. Stick to our recommendations and you’ll experience the best on Oahu!
Before you go, be sure to check out our other USA blogs! We have even more guides on incredible destinations that can be useful as you plan your next vacation. Here are some related blogs to get you started:
10 Best Things to do in Honolulu, Hawaii