Visitors come to Oahu for many different reasons. There is a pervasive “island style” way about the island and its people, and Oahu offers many ways to enjoy the Hawaiian lifestyle. Accommodations range from hotel suites to beach park camp sites. Oahu vacation rentals are an alternative that fall somewhere between those two extremes. Just as different people have unique needs for where they stay on their vacation, they also seek different experiences. Some people love history, others want adventure, some are looking to shop and while others seek some cultural entertainment. Many just want to lounge on the beach in the shade of a coconut. Below is a list that gives suggestions on some of the top attractions Oahu has to offer with a little something for everyone. Definitely not a comprehensive list, but it should get you started on your explorations of the island of Oahu – the Gathering Place. So here are my top 10 things to do in Oahu.
History
History buffs will appreciate walking through the restored grounds of Iolani Palace, once the home of King Kalakaua and Queen Kapiolani. This palace stood as a testament to the sophisticated monarchy of its time (the late 1800’s) and the dedication of its king to music and art. It was also the setting for the subsequent fall of the Hawaiian monarchy in an historic overthrow of Kalakua’s predecessor, Queen Liliokalani, after which time the palace began to deteriorate. In conjunction with the renaissance and revival of Hawaiian culture in the 1970’s a restoration project was established at the palace, opening it back to the public in 1978. Tours are offered Tuesday through Saturday.
Adventure
Just outside the fray of Waikiki stands the world’s most famous volcanic crater, Diamond Head.This remnant of a volcano became extinct over 150,000 years ago.Today you can hike the Crater via the Diamond Head Trail out to its rim, revealing a stunning view from Waikiki to Koki Head.There is no shade on top so start early and bring sun protection.
Shopping
3.Downtown Honolulu
If you’re looking for a unique shopping experience that represents the diversity of cultures found on Oahu, check out downtown Honolulu, particularly Chinatown. This area of downtown has become a hip artistic hub of galleries and night clubs interspersed with fruit and vegetable stands selling fresh produce. Peruse Maunakea Marketplace on Maunakea Street (Read my post about Oahu’s open marketplaces) for a sampling of cultural restaurants and mementos.
Hawaiian Culture
4. Luau
The luau is one Hawaiian gathering most everyone has heard about. This copious feast of island food is combined with music, dance, family and friends. Luaus are available through a multitude of companies, one of which is Oahu’s well-known Polynesian Cultural Center. The Center shares far more than luaus, as it is home to over seven villages highlighting the traditional culture of Hawaii, as well as the South Pacific (including New Zealand, Fiji, Tahiti, Samoa, Tonga, and Easter Island). Their website details the wide variety of educational and cultural displays available and you can book luau tickets online.
Entertainment
There are plenty of venues throughout Oahu where you can take in the melodic sound of Hawaiian music. One of your best bets for seeing some of the island’s most exceptional talent is at Chai’s Island Bistro. Their entertainment calendar is filled for every day of the month. On any given day there you may find virtuosos like Jerry Santos, Robert Cazimero, Makana, Jake Shimibukuro and Melveen Leed sharing their aloha and their songs of the islands. Located in the Aloha Tower Marketplace in Honolulu, the restaurant resides in a bizarre of other shops and storefronts worth touring through.
Family
Though Waikiki offers fun for the whole family, the Waikiki Aquarium is a specific point of interest sure to grab the attention of young and old. One of the oldest public aquariums in the US, the Waikiki Aquarium offers exhibits and educational programs for the marine life of Hawaii and the Pacific. You can get close looks at reef sharks, Hawaiian monk seals, living coral and a multitude of tropical reef fish. Located across from Kapiolani park, you can opt for a picnic on the expansive grass there under the shade of giant trees by the sea.
Seasonal
During the winter months, the infamous North Shore of Oahu is pounded by huge waves, drawing only the most experienced and bravest surfers in the world. These adept athletes compete in various competitions held here. Taking in the breathtaking size and scope of these waves (getting to be 40 and 50 feet tall at times) has become a spectator sport of its own. The North Shore village of Haleiwa is inundated with visitors during the winter months. Some come to surf, others come to watch. And of course, the locals who live here come out in full form to surf their favorite breaks. Check out Peahi Beach (also known as “Jaws”) where you can watch from the bluff and Banzai Pipeline, another dangerous spot best for watching only.
The peak of ‘whale season’ is from February to April, when the Humpback whales migrate to Hawaiian waters to mate and birth their young. These 40 ton creatures of the sea breach, tail slap, spout and wave fins as part of their communication with each other. Boat companies on the island provide sea tours where passengers can see these massive animals up close in their environment.You can choose to take a fishing trip, a snorkel tour, or a smooth sunset sail with the hopes of encountering these rare and beautiful animals. Check the Oahu Visitor Bureau’s website for a listing of boat companies that offer tours.
Beach
A picturesque white sand beach, Lanikai is considered one of the best beaches on Oahu. It embodies much of the island paradise one would expect to experience on the shores of the Hawaiian islands. Out in the distance stand the twin Mokulua Islands, which a favorite destination for sea kayakers on calm sea days. This area of Oahu is also where President Obama has been known to get his R&R.
10. Ala Moana Beach
If you’re looking for the perfect sunset, try Ala Moana Beach, known to be a place where the elusive ‘green flash’ has been sighted (Read my post about Hawaii’s Green Flash). Watch the sun dip down on yet another beautiful Hawaiian day. As the stars come out, you’ll be near to all kinds of nightlife, ready to begin your nighttime exploration of Honolulu.