Top Things to do in Oahu
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10 Things to Do in Oahu That You Shouldn't Miss
The Hawaiian island of Oahu is a surfer’s paradise, with swelling waves that can reach epic heights. No wonder, then, that it’s the site of one of the world’s premier competitions, the Triple Crown of Surfing. If hanging ten isn’t your thing, you can still enjoy the beautiful beaches – particularly famous Waikiki Beach in Honolulu. Art connoisseurs will appreciate the annual Hale'iwa Arts Festival, a celebration of local crafts, painting, jewelry, sculpture, dance, and music.
Restaurants in Oahu
1. USS Arizona Memorial
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 22 reviews
A 184-foot memorial honoring the 2,388 Americans who died during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor.
Reviewed By SeeTheWorld608 - Oceanside, California
The memorial site was stunning & absolutely worth visiting. It’s a very unique glimpse at a critical moment in history.
2. Pearl Harbor / WW II Valor in the Pacific National Monument
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 10 reviews
A 184-foot memorial honoring the 2,388 Americans who died during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor.
Reviewed By plnfxr - Port Orchard, Washington
Brought the boys with us this time and it held their attention. They only used their phone for pictures. Must see for its history.
3. Diamond Head State Monument
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 19 reviews
A dormant volcano crater.
Reviewed By fishmister - Syracuse, Utah
We visited Diamond Head on a Wednesday at about noon. According to Google it started to slow down by then.
The lot was full but we were able to pay and wait in the parking line/queue until someone left. Took about 5 min.
As we started the hike there were two groups from tour buses coming down the hill. So the crowds were decreasing.
The hike starts out slow and then hits some switch backs that weren't too bad. The final part of the hike are steps. We took a break after the first set of stairs. If you don't like the idea of tunnels you can avoid the second one by going left and up the stairs on the side of the hill, but the first tunnel you have to go through up and down. It is wide enough for traffic both ways but can be snug on the down hill side. The peak was crowded and had to wait our turn to get the best photo ops but was not crazy.
We wore flip flops, sneakers or hiking shoes would have been better for the down hill. Great for the whole family.
Bring water you will need it.
4. Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 13 reviews
A perfect snorkeling spot.
Reviewed By venicegirl - Los Angeles, CA
Although advised to go early, since it was gloomy and chilly early in the morning, we didn't arrive until 9. However, there wasn't much of a line, we got the 9:15 presentation spot, and the day warmed up considerably. The setting and water color is beautiful.
Although it was quite crowded on the beach and in the water, and there wasn't much in the way of colorful coral, my kids (4, 6, and 8) and I were all impressed and delighted with the variety and quantity of very large, colorful fish we saw while snorkeling.
Food options are very limited and barely edible so eat beforehand or bring food with you!
5. Waikiki Beach
Overall Ratings
4 based on 14 reviews
Oahu's most popular beach.
Reviewed By GiantsFanLosAngeles - Los Angeles
Went to the beach near the east end, near the Honolulu Zoo.
Visited on Tuesday and Wednesday afternoon.
This area seemed less crowded than the western side. There is a wall to reduce the waves, making it safer to swim, or for children to play in. Closer view of Diamond Head at the east end, too.
6. Shangri La
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 801 reviews
Doris Duke's home, built in 1930, is an architecturally significant home which includes a collection of Islamic artwork.
Reviewed By Marcia K - Homer, Alaska
If you like historic homes of interesting people, fabulous art and architectural details, you'll love Shangri La. Managed by the Honolulu Museum of Art, the tour does a great job of showcasing Doris Duke's home, art collection and how it all came to be. Don't miss it! You don't have to have a passion for middle eastern art to appreciate what Duke accomplished here. You just have to love beauty.
7. Dolphin Quest
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 731 reviews
Dolphin Quest Oahu, located at the world-famous Kahala Hotel & Resort just minutes from Waikiki, brings people and dolphins closer than ever in fun, interactive dolphin encounter programs for all ages. Dolphin Quest Oahu's intimate and lush setting is the perfect place for a dolphin experience for everyone from kids to honeymooners. Reservations can be made up to one year in advance. A portion of the proceeds from all Dolphin Quest encounter programs supports marine education, conservation and scientific study. TripAdvisor Certificate Excellence winner in 2017, 2016 and 2015!
Reviewed By James B - Las Vegas, Nevada
This being my number one bucket list item, BUT most places require a wet suit. I am NOT comfortable wearing one of those (my hubby and I are lil overweight) this adventure only requires a life vest. So, I got my dolphin experience without being uncomfortable. The trainers were all nice and knowledgeable. Definitely worth the money. Would I do it again. Absolutely!!!
8. Battleship Missouri Memorial
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 6 reviews
Since opening in January 1999, the Battleship Missouri Memorial has attracted more than 8-million visitors from around the world with a fascinating tour experience showcasing the USS Missouri’s unique place in history. Located a mere ship’s length from the USS Arizona Memorial, the Mighty Mo completes a historical visitor experience that begins with the “day of infamy” and sinking of the USS Arizona in Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, and ends with Japan’s formal surrender aboard the USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay on September 2, 1945. The USS Missouri had an astounding career over five decades and three wars – World War II, the Korean War, and Desert Storm – after which it was decommissioned and donated to the USS Missouri Memorial Association, Inc., a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. The Association operates the Battleship Missouri Memorial as a historic attraction and oversees her care and preservation with the support of visitors, memberships, grants, and donations.
Reviewed By ldeni - Prince George, Canada
Wow what a cool experience to be on this ship! If you are headed to Pearl Harbor it is definitely worth it to check out this battleship while you're in the area. I'm not big into history, but I am so glad I went. The tour guide was knowledgeable, engaged and did an awesome job. I learned so much, and really enjoyed exploring the ship with my family, it really was quite something!
9. Koko Crater Railway Trail
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2 reviews
Reviewed By kokoc290 - Honolulu, Hawaii
Everyone are in different shapes & health. I'm in good health. 63 yrs. old. Many people were doing very well walking up to the summit. However, quite a few, even ppl younger than me stopped @ the rest area. My boyfriend continued on, BUT I warned him...just remember, you have to walk back down so don't let your legs get fatigued. Don't want to trip going down. He never made it up to the summit. Views are absolutely spectacular! You won't be sorry. This is a step trail, meaning not a dirt trail. It's all steps, so it's kinda harder to walk up. I thought my legs were in good shape, but not. Next day, we both agreed, we will never do this hike again. And, he exercises more than me. None the less, if you are visiting, please do this hike. Good exercise & fantastic views, especially if U can make it to the top.
10. Kailua Beach Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2 reviews
Reviewed By mjmorris009 - Chagrin Falls, Ohio
Went here today with family including three teenagers. Great setting, and very nice beach. Great for casual swimming. Water fairly quickly gets to 8 feet, but doesn’t drop off further than that for a fair ways out. Waves very minimal. Nice and clean restrooms on beach and very neat general store within walking distance. Oahu is full of good beaches, and this is one of the better.
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