The Best Things to Do on Oahu:

Planning your trip to Oahu and want to make sure you don’t miss out on any fun? We’ve created a list of the best things to do on Oahu. From surfing, to hiking, to the best places to eat and drink, we’ve got you covered!

1. Where to Surf on Oahu:

A. Waikiki Beach. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, Oahu offers surf breaks for everyone. Waikiki Beach is perfect for casual swimmers, beginning surfers and pro-alike. A favorite with locals and tourists alike, it has surfboard rentals and surf schools all along the beach.
Pro tip: The Waikiki waves are smallest waves are during the winter months, while the summer can have larger swells.

B. The North Shore. You don’t want to miss the seven mile miracle that is the north shore of Oahu. From Waimea Bay (where the Eddie runs) to Pipeline (where Pipe Masters is held), to Sunset Beach, watch (or catch) some of the best waves of your life during the winter surf season.

C. Diamond Head. Another incredible break on the south shore of Oahu, Diamond Head offers a slight reprieve from the Waikiki crowds.

Pro tip: Respect the lineup. On Oahu it’s important to understand the surf line-up. Showing humility and respect for the locals goes a long way here.

2. Where to Hike on Oahu:

A. Manoa Valley: One of our favorite hikes is Mānoa Falls Trail, it’s a lush tropical paradise on the south shore of the island.
B. Waimea Valley. One of the historic gems on the island, Waimea Valley is on the north shore of Oahu. It’s a nature preserve with incredible flora, a waterfall and an even the occasional peacock sighting.
C. Lanikai Pillbox. One of the most scenic hikes on Oahu for ocean views, this hike is located in Kailua on the east side of the island.
D. Koko Head. One of the best hikes on the south shore of Oahu and only a short drive from Waikiki Beach. Koko Head trail is a giant staircase made of old railroad ties. It’s an excellent workout and a great way to meet fellow travelers and locals alike.

3. Where to Eat and Drink on Oahu:

A. The Royal Hawaiian for sunset drinks. Is there anything better that sunset drinks in Hawaii? We think not! The Royal Hawaiian’s Mai Tai Bar is located right on Waikiki Beach. Catch sunset with family and friends and listen to live music.
B. Turtle Bay Resort for sunset drinks. If you’re on the north shore, the Sunset Pool Bar at Turtle Bay offers some of the best views on the island.
C. Grab lunch in Haleiwa town. From the Beet Box cafe, our go-to lunch and breakfast spot, to Cholo’s Homestyle Mexican, Haleiwa is a foodie’s oasis.
D. The Sunrise Shack. With locations in Waikiki and on the North shore, you can’t miss grabbing breakfast or lunch here. With yummy papaya bowls, acai and bullet coffee, the sunrise shack is a local favorite.

4. What are the Most Fun Things to do on Oahu?

A. Photo Shoot

Capture your trip with a private photo shoot. Whether you’re looking for family photos or instagram content, don’t miss the opportunity to shoot with one of our favorite surf and lifestyle photographers on the island: Megan Costello.

B. Sunset Sail

Sunset sail in Waikiki. Whether you’re traveling solo or with friends and family, treat yourself to a sunset sail in Waikiki. Na Hoku Catamarans offer sunset sails directly from the Waikiki Beach. 

C. Swim with sharks

One Ocean Diving offers cafe-free dives on the north shore of Oahu with an incredible team of marine biologists.

D. Snorkeling

Lanikai Beach in Kailua is a perfect beach for families and kids. Located on the East side of Oahu in Kailua, Lanikai is a white sand beach with incredible snorkeling and kayaking, known for it’s crystal clear water and views of the Mokolua Islands.

Hanauma Bay State Park. Located on the south shore of the island, Hanauma Bay offers some of the best snorkeling in Hawaii.

E. Catch the Sunset

Watch the sunset at Waikiki Beach: Our favorite free activity on the island is watching sunset at Waikiki Beach. The community comes together to watch the last light and sunset surf.

Looking for the best places to eat and drink on Oahu? Check out our comprehensive guide to restaurants and cafes on Oahu here.