Oahu, Hawaii

Hawaii is a bucket list destination for so many. Today we are focusing on Oahu. Oahu is home to Honolulu, Hawaii’s capital and is definitely the most “city” of all the islands. Each island is unique and has so much beauty. When flying into Honolulu first thing we make sure we have done is rent a car. Make sure to have reserved a convertible or a jeep so you can soak up that Hawaiian sunshine!

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Where to Stay

I definitely recommend staying in Waikiki. Yes, it is more crowded but definitely worth it. The beach is amazing. It’s a great place for learning to surf. Waikiki is perfect. You have the beach, restaurants, shopping, nightlife. All within walking distance. Make sure to stop by Dukes for dinner and watch the sunset. When the sun goes down head to town for the nightlife. There is always something fun going on. Remember, Hawaii is expensive. We have stayed at the Sheraton Waikiki and the Outrigger Waikiki. Both of these are on the beach and I feel a little more budget friendly.

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What to do in Oahu…

Hike Diamond Head

If you want some of the best views of the island up top of Diamond Head Crater is the spot. You’ll have unparalleled views of Honolulu and the Pacific Ocean. The trail to the top takes about an hour (1.6 mi, 2hr round trip). There are 175 stairs when you get to the top. Wear good shoes and bring water. For more info on hiking Diamond Head check out the park website https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/parks/oahu/diamond-head-state-monument/

Snorkel Hanauma Bay

Hanauma Bay is one of my favorite places to snorkel. It is a beautiful nature preserve and a marine life conservation area. Hanauma Bay is closed Monday and Tuesday. Reservations are required. Make sure to bring reef safe sunscreen. For reservations https://hanaumabaystatepark.com

Lanikai Beach

This is our family’s all time favorite beach. Quite possibly the most beautiful beach I have ever seen. Paradise! Much less crowded than Waikiki Beach. Parking is in the neighborhood. There are designated areas. Make sure to be careful and not get towed or disturb the homeowners. It can be tough to find parking sometimes. There are some little alleyways that lead to the beach. You can relax on the beach or if you’re up for a little workout, rent kayak and head out to the Mokulua Islands about .75 miles from shore. It’s easier getting out there than it is getting back. Afterwards, head over to Kailua for some shaved ice!

Visit the Byodo-In Temple

Located at the foot of the Ko’olau Mountains, this memorial park is a replica a of the Byodo-In Temple in Japan. Built as a tribute to the Japanese immigrants that came to Hawaii. The grounds are absolutely stunning and very peaceful.

Snorkel Shark’s Cove

I love snorkeling here just because of the name! Shark’s Cove is on Hawaii’s North Shore. It’s made up of volcanic rock with lots of tide pools and some deeper areas that make for perfect snorkeling. We have seen some really great fish here. Speaking of North Shore, make your way over to the Banzai Pipeline and watch the surfers catch some waves.

Dole Pineapple Plantation

Can you smell the pineapple? Tour the gardens, take the Pineapple Express. Get lost in the maze. Then it’s pineapple everything! Dole whip, pineapple cotton candy, pineapple lollipops. Something from Dole was always my number one requested souvenir.

Visit Pearl Harbor

Learn about that fateful day, December 7, 1941 that led us into WWII. Like visiting Normandy, France, a visit to Pearl Harbor is profoundly moving. Make sure to include with your visit the USS Arizona Memorial. Remember, this is the final resting place for over 1100 lost souls. The Battleship Missouri is not far from there, as is the USS Bowfin Submarine and the Aviation Museum which can also visit. Start you day early to make sure you can fit everything in. Make reservations at https://www.nps.gov/perl/planyourvisit/index.htm If you’re interested in organized tours start here.

Go to a Luau

There are many luaus to choose from on Oahu. We loved the Paradise Cove Luau. They literally take you on a journey into Hawaiian culture. It’s an amazing show and experience. Learn more about Oahu luaus.

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Check out my post Maui, Hawaii if you’re looking to island hop. Stay tuned for Kaua’i and the Big Island…

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