Island Guide
Oahu
The Gathering Place
Where ancient Hawaiian history, world-class surf, and the vibrant pulse of Honolulu converge on one extraordinary island.
Island Nickname
The Gathering Place
Main City
Honolulu
Best For
History, Surf, Culture
Airport
HNL — Daniel K. Inouye
Oahu
Top 10 Things
To Do on Oahu
Hike Diamond Head
Rise before dawn and make the 1.6-mile round-trip climb to the summit of Diamond Head crater. The panoramic view of Waikiki, Honolulu, and the Pacific stretching to the horizon is one of the most iconic sights in all of Hawaii. Arrive early — the trail opens at 6 a.m. and fills quickly.
Snorkel Hanauma Bay
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is one of the most biodiverse marine sanctuaries in the Pacific. Hundreds of species of reef fish, sea turtles, and coral formations await just below the surface. Reservations are required and fill weeks in advance — book the moment your trip is confirmed.
Pearl Harbor National Memorial
The USS Arizona Memorial sits directly above the sunken battleship, where 1,177 sailors and Marines remain entombed. The experience is solemn, powerful, and essential. Arrive early — tickets are free but timed, and the site draws visitors from around the world.
Surf or Watch at Waikiki
Waikiki Beach is where surfing was born. The long, gentle rollers make it the ideal place for first-timers to take a lesson, while the lineup is always populated with skilled longboarders. Even if you never touch a board, watching the surf culture unfold from the sand is a pleasure in itself.
North Shore Food Trucks
The stretch of Kamehameha Highway between Haleiwa and Sunset Beach is lined with food trucks serving some of the best shrimp plates, acai bowls, and garlic butter dishes in the state. Giovanni's Shrimp Truck has been a landmark for decades. Bring cash and an appetite.
Polynesian Cultural Center
Spread across 42 acres in Laie, the Polynesian Cultural Center offers an immersive journey through the cultures of Hawaii, Samoa, Tonga, Fiji, Tahiti, and New Zealand. The evening luau and IMAX show are highlights. Plan for a full day — this is not a quick stop.
Manoa Falls Trail
A 1.6-mile round-trip hike through lush rainforest leads to a 150-foot waterfall tucked into the back of Manoa Valley. The trail is muddy, fragrant, and otherworldly — a complete contrast to the beach scene just minutes away. Wear shoes you don't mind getting dirty.
Kailua Beach
Consistently ranked among the finest beaches in the United States, Kailua Beach offers powdery white sand, calm turquoise water, and a relaxed neighborhood atmosphere far removed from the Waikiki crowds. Rent a kayak and paddle out to the Mokulua Islands just offshore.
Iolani Palace
The only royal palace on American soil, Iolani Palace served as the official residence of Hawaii's last monarchs before the kingdom was overthrown in 1893. The restored interior — throne room, formal dining hall, and royal bedchambers — tells a story of sovereignty, loss, and resilience.
Tantalus Lookout at Sunset
Drive the winding road up Tantalus to Puu Ualakaa State Wayside for a sweeping panorama of Honolulu, Diamond Head, and the Pacific at golden hour. The view is spectacular at any time of day, but as the sun drops into the ocean and the city lights begin to flicker on, it becomes unforgettable.
Through the Lens
Oahu in Photos
Where to Stay
Oahu Hotels
Halekulani
LuxuryWaikiki
The gold standard of Waikiki hotels. Understated elegance, impeccable service, and a pool that seems to float above the sea.
Check RatesThe Kahala Hotel & Resort
LuxuryKahala
Set on a private beach away from the Waikiki bustle, with resident dolphins in the lagoon and a spa that rivals any in the world.
Check RatesTurtle Bay Resort
ResortNorth Shore
The only full-service resort on the North Shore. Surf breaks, horseback riding, and a pace of life that feels genuinely Hawaiian.
Check RatesWhere to Eat
Oahu Restaurants
Marukame Udon
JapaneseWaikiki
A Waikiki institution. The line stretches down the block but moves fast, and the hand-pulled udon is worth every minute of the wait. Walk-ins only — no reservations needed.
View MenuHelena's Hawaiian Food
HawaiianKalihi
A James Beard Award winner serving traditional Hawaiian plates — pipikaula, lomi salmon, poi — in a no-frills setting that has not changed in decades.
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