O'ahu

Home to almost 70% of Hawai’i’s population, vibrant, scenic O’ahu boasts beautiful beaches, laid back surf towns and the buzzing cosmopolitan city of Honolulu.

Almost everybody who visits Hawai’i will spend at least some time on O’ahu. The third largest island in the chain - and by far the most developed - combines breathtaking cinematic scenery, a rich cultural heritage and all the modern American amenities you could wish for, making it a best of both worlds destination that's hard to resist!

A Little Bit of History

From the Tahitians who first occupied the island, to the protestant missionaries who brought Christianity and literacy in the 1800s, and the influx of Japanese, Chinese, Korean and Portuguese workers who came to fill labor shortages in the early twentieth century, O’ahu’s rich history of immigration has had a profound influence on the island’s social and economic development, and helped shape the vibrant, modern melting pot of cultures you see today.

Believed to have been settled by native Polynesians from around 500 CE, the island rose to commercial and political prominence after King Kamehameha I’s conquest of 1795. His unification of the islands established the Kingdom of Hawai’i and in 1845, the royal capital was moved from Lahaina, on the island of Maui, to the principal harbor city of Honolulu.

The fall of the monarchy (1893), Hawai’i’s subsequent annexation by the United States (1898) and the Pearl Harbor attack of December 1941 which triggered America’s involvement in World War II, all followed before the Aloha State was eventually admitted to the union on August 21st, 1959. Since then, Hawai’i has established itself as one of America’s top vacation destinations, with the island of O’ahu its premier location.

Modern O'ahu

Today, O’ahu is a thriving hub of tourism attracting more than five million visitors each year from the United States alone. Its perfect marriage of majestic natural scenery and modern urbanization, coupled with a clear commitment to preserving the island’s native traditions, makes it an ideal destination for Americans seeking a unique cultural experience within the confines of familiarity.

Honolulu

Located on O’ahu’s southern shore, Honolulu is the state capital, commercial center and gateway to the island chain. This unique coastal city serves up a slice of America quite unlike any other, blending big city buzz with relaxed island vibes, first-class contemporary living with a deep appreciation for its past.

From the bustling beach walks of Waikiki to the tranquil oasis of Kapi’olani Park, from modern glass skyscrapers to traditional single-story buildings constructed from native lava rock, from museums and galleries to paddle boards and banana boats, Honolulu is a fascinating mixture of opposites that boasts some of the best shopping, dining and cultural experiences you'll find anywhere in the United States.

Whether you're a foodie eager to explore Chinatown’s award-winning restaurants, a thrill seeker in search of a new adventure or a laid back vacationer content to lounge by the pool, this modern metropolis checks all the right boxes for a unique city break.

Waikiki

The vibrant Honolulu neighborhood of Waikiki - once a playground for the Hawaiian Royal Family - has been the beating heart of O’ahu’s tourism industry for more than a century. Powdery white sands, pristine waters and an almost impossibly rich choice of luxury resort hotels all located bang on the beach, make this idyllic island paradise the perfect vacation destination.

Indulge in some high-end shopping on Kalākaua Avenue, dine at one of the district’s diverse range of restaurants and learn to surf at the exact same spot where the legendary Hawaiian Duke Kahanamoku honed his craft. And when you're done stocking up on souvenirs or splashing around on the shore, relax in one of Waikiki’s barefoot beach bars and watch a truly unforgettable sunset over the Pacific, with iconic Diamond Head as a backdrop.

Hale’iwa & the North Shore

Around one hour’s leisurely drive from Honolulu, the historic surf town of Hale’iwa is a charming, laid back community and the North Shore’s cultural, social and commercial hub. Brimming with surf shops, shrimp trucks, independent restaurants and artisan boutiques, Hale’iwa’s relaxed, vintage vibe and easy-going atmosphere make it the ideal gateway to the north shore and perhaps, the best loved beach town in Hawai’i.

The North Shore of O’ahu is a 17-mile stretch of stunning coastline connecting Ka’ena Point in the west with the island’s northernmost tip at Kahuku Point. Renowned for its world-class surf breaks including the legendary ‘seven mile miracle’ between Hale’iwa Beach Park and Sunset Beach, this area of O’ahu is also popular with foodies, hikers, divers and day trippers looking to escape the beautiful chaos of Waikiki for the casual calm of the north coast. Dive with sharks, swim in the ocean, and check out the celebrated local food scene. All before watching the sun go down over the harbor. Living the dream? We certainly think so.

Windward Coast

The East Coast of O’ahu - commonly referred to as the windward side and accessed via the scenic Pali Highway from Honolulu - is a visual feast of lush green valleys, soaring cliffs, majestic waterfalls and some of the best beaches on the island. Discover the quaint country town of Kailua with its famous farmer’s market and abundance of independent shops and restaurants, visit amazing cultural sites like the Byodo-In Temple, and imagine yourself in the movies at Kualoa Ranch, which has featured as a backdrop for a host of films and TV shows including Jurassic Park, Hawai’i Five-0, Magnum PI and Lost.

A haven for walkers and water sports enthusiasts, the Windward Coast invites visitors to indulge in a wide range of activities from paddle boarding and kitesurfing to hiking and horseback riding. So whether you're looking for adventure or simply to relax and soak in the spectacular views from any number of vantage points along the coast, this quiet, laid back alternative to Waikiki is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking to connect with nature.

Leeward Coast

Often called the Wai’anae or simply West Coast, O’ahu’s dry and sunny Leeward side extends all the way from Pearl Harbor to the island’s westernmost tip, Ka’ena Point, and includes the luxurious resort community of Ko Olina. With its beautiful secluded beaches, fascinating rural landscapes and laid back lifestyle rich in local culture and tradition, this largely undeveloped area delivers a striking contrast to the hustle and bustle of Honolulu.

Charter a sailboat, take a surf lesson, explore O’ahu’s diverse marine life on a snorkeling or scuba diving trip, or simply bask in abundant sunshine beneath a backdrop of rugged mountains to the soothing sound of the ocean! Outdoor enthusiasts, golfers, sun seekers and those in search of an authentic Hawaiian experience, might think they've found heaven here. And they could be right.

Top Ten Things To Do On O’ahu

1. Take A Hike!

O’ahu is a paradise for hikers of all levels, with countless trails ranging from paved paths suitable for beginners to more challenging terrain for experienced adventurers. Popular easy routes include Lē’ahi (Diamond Head) and the Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail, but if you want a workout before taking in views to rival any place on the planet, the Lanakai Pill Box and ‘Aiea Loop Trails, as well as the 1048 step climb up a former tramway to Koko Head summit, are all moderate to difficult hikes with rich rewards!

2. Eat Like A Local

Owing largely to the islands’ long history of immigration, Hawaiian cuisine is a fusion of traditional Polynesian flavors with a host of international - and in particular, oriental - influences. Almost everywhere on O’ahu has foodie credentials but if you’re looking for authentic ono grinds, Honolulu’s Kapahulu neighborhood and the North Shore’s vibrant food truck scene are good places to start. Poke, Garlic Shrimp, Loco Moco and a traditional Hawaiian Plate Lunch are all absolute must-try dishes, and you’d be mad to miss out on a hot Malasada from the legendary Leonard’s Bakery.

3. Get Wet!

The ocean is an integral part of Hawai’i’s identity and O’ahu, like all of the islands, is the consummate playground for water sports enthusiasts. Whether you want to swim in the shallows, surf the Banzai Pipeline or paddle board out to Mokoli’i, opportunities to have fun in the crystal clear waters of O’ahu are simply boundless.

4. See The Island From The Air

As good as O’ahu looks from the ground, the majesty of the island’s diverse landscapes and the scale and significance of landmarks such as Pearl Harbor and Diamond Head, can only be truly appreciated from an aerial perspective. There are numerous helicopter tour operators on O’ahu offering scenic flights of various lengths and itineraries, but for an unforgettable, once in a lifetime doors off experience that lets you to sit in the same seat as the stars, Magnum Helicopters is hard to beat!

5. Explore Pearl Harbor

You cannot come to O’ahu without allocating at least one day to the fascinating and sobering experience of Pearl Harbor National Memorial. Everybody knows what happened on December 7th 1941, but only when you stand aboard the USS Arizona Memorial do you really begin to appreciate the pivotal role the attack played in World War II and the enormity of the sacrifice made by the US Navy personnel who lost their lives that day. Take a moment to reflect and remember, check out the on site bookstore with its extensive collection of resources, and pay a visit to other notable attractions here including the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum and the Battleship Missouri Memorial.

6. Hit The Beach!

With 112 miles of jaw-dropping coastline, it’s no surprise that O’ahu boasts some of America’s - if not the world’s - best beaches. From the giant waves of Waimea to the tranquil waters of Hanauma Bay, the stunning beauty of Lanakai to the world-famous skyline of Waikiki, each of the island’s beaches offers its own unique taste of paradise. So whether you’re looking to have fun in the sun or simply relax in splendid isolation seeing only your own footsteps in the sand, there’s a beach on O’ahu that’s guaranteed to check that box!

7. Catch Up On Art and Culture

As well as its obvious credentials as a first-class beach vacation destination the island of O’ahu also boasts a rich tapestry of art and cultural activities for visitors to enjoy. Check out the Bishop Museum with its world-leading collection of Polynesian cultural artifacts, visit the sacred Iolani Palace - once home to the Hawaiian Royal Family - and discover significant holdings in American and European painting and Asian art at the Honolulu Museum of Art. Other attractions of note include the Polynesian Cultural Center in the county town of Lā’ie - a living museum dedicated to the preservation of Polynesian cultures.

8. Embrace Hawaiian Tradition

There are numerous opportunities to unleash your Aloha spirit and experience traditional island activities during your time on O’ahu. Get up close and personal with native Hawaiian culture, customs and cuisine by learning the art of hula, signing up for a lei making class or taking part in a luau - a traditional Polynesian feast (typically Kālua Pig cooked in an underground oven called an imu), often accompanied by lively music and fire dancing!

9. Watch The Sunset

O’ahu is known for its incredible sunsets and there are plenty of choice locations on the island to marvel at the myriad of pink and orange hues that paint the evening sky. Catch the spectacle from one of Waikiki’s beachfront bars for a lively atmosphere and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and Diamond Head, from the North Shore’s romantic (and aptly named) Sunset Beach or from the popular Tantalus Lookout - around half an hour's drive from Honolulu - for a unique elevated perspective and sweeping vistas of the city.

10. Mail a coconut home!

Considered a self-contained unit and therefore requiring no additional packaging, coconuts have been mailed from O’ahu to destinations all over the world for decades. To send the folks back home a fun alternative to a postcard, pick up a pre-decorated, ready-to-mail coconut from various vendors on the island, add the name and address details, and your own personal message, then simply drop it in the mail! (Note that coconuts that have not been pre-inspected for pests prior to purchase, will have to undergo an agricultural inspection before shipping; check with your vendor if you’re unsure).

Where To Eat

O’ahu’s culinary landscape reflects both its location in the Pacific and the myriad of cultural influences the island has experienced throughout its colorful history. Undoubtedly one of the world's great destinations for gastro-tourists, O’ahu is now home to more than 3000 restaurants and cafes serving every type of cuisine imaginable. From no-frills local food trucks to first-class fine-dining, and everything else in between, this tiny island - just 600 square miles in area - boasts a vibrant and diverse dining scene befitting a much larger destination. Use our restaurant filters to find your new favorite place to eat on O’ahu, or check out the popular options below…

Where To Sleep

Sleeping options abound on O’ahu with everything from five star luxury resorts to more modest hotel accommodation, hostels and apartment rentals. Though most of the island’s hotels are centered around Honolulu - with a significant concentration in Waikiki - high quality options across all star ratings can also be found on both the Windward and Leeward coasts, as well as on the North Shore. Use our innovative search tools to find your perfect O’ahu hotel match, or check out some of our favorites below…

How To Get Around

There are various options for getting around the Honolulu city region including the award-winning public bus network, TheBus, and the still under construction Skyline rapid transit system scheduled to be fully operational by 2031. The hop-on, hop-off Waikiki trolley is a popular choice for tourists connecting major attractions, landmarks, hotels and restaurants in the Waikiki district, but walking is also a viable - some might say favorable option - for getting around the city, allowing for meandering exploration that public transport prohibits. Ride shares, taxis and bicycle rentals are other options, but if you plan to explore beyond Waikiki and Honolulu, a rental car is highly recommended. All of the big companies have offices at Honolulu airport and at various locations across the island, but booking ahead is advised if you want to secure the best deals.

Top Travel Tips

• Learn the Lingo. Of course everybody speaks English here, but a few basic Hawaiian words and phrases, such as Aloha (hello / goodbye), Mahalo (thank you) and A hui hou (goodbye / until we meet again) are sure to make social interactions more meaningful and help to deepen your connection with the islands.
• Respect Hawaiian Land and Traditions. Native Hawaiians hold many sites as scared, so be sure to follow local guidelines when visiting places of historical, cultural and spiritual significance.
• Be Eco-conscious. Connecting with nature is a core principle of Hawaiian culture. Enjoy the great outdoors whilst on O’ahu but remember:- always stick to the trail, take your litter with you, don't disturb the wildlife and never take souvenirs from nature.
• Embrace the Aloha lifestyle. Hawaiians are positive, friendly and laid back people. During your time on O’ahu, take the opportunity to slow down, relax and live in the moment.
• Book ahead. Popular hotels, restaurants and attractions get very busy during peak seasons, so we advise booking well in advance of your visit to avoid disappointment.
• Slap on the Sun Cream and stay Hydrated. O’ahu’s consistently warm temperatures and high humidity put ill-prepared visitors at risk of sunburn and dehydration. Don't be one of these people! Pack a high factor, reef-safe sunscreen to help protect both yourself and the local marine life… and don’t forget to bring a reusable water bottle.

Best Times to Visit

Although the summer months (June, July and August) boast the highest temperatures and longest daylight hours, spring time (from mid-April to early-June) is perhaps, on balance, the best time to visit O’ahu. Pleasant weather and fewer crowds make this the perfect season for idling on the island’s golden sands, meandering through open air shopping malls, or putting on your hiking boots and heading out to explore! Accommodation prices tend to be lower at this time of year, with hoteliers slashing room rates in view of reduced demand, and with fewer tourists around, everything feels that little but more relaxed, and reservations for popular restaurants and attractions are easier to come by. Similar benefits can be reaped by visiting in late summer / early fall. But if you're an experienced surfer looking to ride monster waves on the North Shore, or if whale watching is high on your O’ahu vacation wish list, then the winter season (November to March) is where it's at.

Recommended Reads

• Hawai’i by James A. Michener
• The Descendants by Kaui Hart Hemmings
• Mark Twain’s Letters From Hawai’i by Mark Twain
• Waterman: The Life and Times of Duke Kahanamoku by David Davis
• Ōlelo No’eau: Hawaiian Proverbs & Poetical Sayings by Mary Kawena Pukui
• Sharks in the Time of Saviors by Kawai Strong Washburn
• Hawai’i’ Story by Hawai’i’s Queen Lili’uokalani

Worth a Watch

• Magnum, PI (1980) and Magnum PI (2018)
• Hawai’i Five-O (1968) and Hawai’i Five-0 (2010)
• From Here to Eternity (1953)
• Soul Surfer (2011)
• Battleship (2012)
• The Descendants (2011)
• Finding ‘Ohana (2021)