Oahu is the most-visited island in Hawaii. This means it’s more “touristy” than other Hawaiian islands, but don’t let this deter you from visiting Oahu. This island is absolutely worth a trip, especially if you get off the beaten path.
Whatever kind of adventure you want, this travel guide has everything you need to plan an incredible trip to Oahu!
This is the most-visited Hawaiian island, and it's perfect for beach bums, surfers, divers, history buffs, and outdoor enthusiasts!
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When To Go
Oahu has two peak travel seasons. Mid-June to August has the driest and warmest weather of the year, which means prices and tourist numbers will be at their highest everywhere on the island. So book your accommodation, rental cars, and tours in advance to save some money and ensure availability.
Mid-December – early April is a peak season for the North Shore because of the world-class swells and professional surfing events. If you want to save money and avoid some crowds, you could stay in the Waikiki Beach area during these months and visit the North Shore as a day trip.
The year-round warm weather means Oahu doesn’t have an off-season. But mid-April to early June and September to mid-December are shoulder seasons when you can score some excellent (by Hawaii standards) accommodation and airfare deals. Rain is more common during these months, but these afternoon showers usually blow through quickly and rarely affect tours or activities.
This is one of the most popular sites on Oahu, so you'll need timed entry tickets. I recommend getting these tickets ahead of time to ensure you can visit when you want.
This is a quick and easy pull-off with incredible views!
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-Go on a scenic drive along the North Shore that includes stops at Kahuku Point, Ehukai Beach (where the Banzai Pipeline is), Waimea Bay Beach Park, and Matsumoto’s Shave Ice.
I highly recommend the zip line and raptor tour. The raptor tour is with UTVs, so you’ll get VERY dirty. You should do the UTV as your last activity of the day and bring face wipes. The food isn’t great at Kualoa Ranch, but there are food trucks and local restaurants nearby. All tours start and end promptly from the same place, so you don’t need to schedule much time between tours.
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Getting Around
A car is essential on Oahu. Many tour companies provide transportation to and from guided tours, and taxis and rideshares are common in Waikiki Beach and Honolulu. You can also hire drives. But these can be expensive.
So if you’re going to leave your hotel more than a couple of times (which I highly recommend!), then a rental car can save you money. Plus, a rental car gives you flexibility over your itinerary and room to store and transport your belongings.
I spent five days on Oahu with a rental car and drove all over the island. But because the island is so small, I only had to fill up my tank once.
Known as the “cosmopolitan jewel of Waikiki,” the ’Alohilani is on the beach. This hotel has a 200,000-gallon oceanarium, a saltwater infinity pool, two restaurants by Masaharu Morimoto, and a beer garden. Plus, every room has either ocean or Diamond Head views.
With "Four Seasons" in its name, you know this hotel will provide you with an over-the-top luxurious stay. If you want to be on the island's quieter, less-crowded West Side, then this hotel is for you. The property has a protected beach that'sperfect for water activities, a rothere'sart display, and a Michael Mina Fish House.
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Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa, Waikiki Beach
If you want glitz and glam, you’ll love this hotel’s old Hollywood vibes. There’s a spa, on-site dining, event spaces, and an oceanfront pool that you’ll never want to leave.
This hotel is ideally located on Waikiki Beach, and two of the city’s best restaurants are here. You’ll love the views from your window, the upscale and inviting decor, and the pool with an incredible view.
Located on Oahu’s more remote and less-visited North Shore, this hotel is perfect for getting off the beaten path. This resort has a beach, pools, hiking trails, horseback riding, restaurants, a spa, and golf courses.
The magic of Disney + the paradise of Hawaii = this resort. If you’re traveling with kids or kids-at-heart, this beachfront resort with every amenity you could think of is for you.
You’ll love this property’s two oceanfront pools, restaurant, views, and minimalist design. This hotel is on the best beach in Waikiki for beginner surf lessons, so book a session when you’re here.
If you want a chic, trendy, modern-meets-vintage hotel, then The Laylow is for you. You’ll love the pool, gardens, and on-site restaurant. This hotel is part of the Marriott brand, so you can earn and use hotel points here.
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