Curator’s statement
When traveling to Hawaiʻi, you are most likely to first land in Oahu, the capital. This sprawling island is full of outdoors activities – adventurous hikes and oceanfront, as well as a bustling nightlife, culinary culture and exploration. You can truly get lost in the beauty of this island and let it guide you across it’s stunning corners, catching sunrises and sunsets along the way.
The Fora Difference
Book with Jenny to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.
Killer perks
Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you
Personalized recs
Customized travel planning for your style
Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay in Oahu, Hawaiʻi
Unlock perks by contacting Jenny to book your trip.
Things to do in Oahu, Hawaiʻi
Surfing
All of the beaches around Oahu offer surfing for all levels of experience. Stay on Waikiki Beach to learn and rent a board from local surf shops located right on the beach or head to Sunrise Beach on the North Shore to catch huge waves as an experienced surfer.
Snorkel
Indulge in underwater sea life at Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve and discover endlessly beautiful coral reefs.
Explore Waikiki
Stroll through Waikiki enjoying a variety of shops, restaurants and beautiful hotels. Come out here at night and make sure to check out the street performers.
Hike
Sunrise hike up the Lanikai Pillbox with 360 degree views of the entire island. Consider hiking to the Manoa Falls located 15 minutes from Waikiki to discover beautiful waterfalls. Go over to the Mermaid Cave for more adventure and beautiful pictures.
Sunsets
Catch a stunning sunset at Turtle Bay where you can access a public beach to surf or simply view the most incredible panorama.
Eat & drink in Oahu, Hawaiʻi
North Shore Tacos: Delicious tacos paired with a stunning ocean view.
Kona Coffee Purveyors: The best pastries and coffee in town.
Leonard’s Malasada Truck: Amazing pastry truck serving hot malasadas, Portuguese fried dough.
Nalu Health Bar: Amazing smoothies, salads and wraps bar perfect for a quick and healthy lunch before any adventure.
Paia Fish Market Waikiki: Affordable and delicious fish taco market on a street off of Waikiki.
Beachhouse at the Moana: A lovely hotel serving up delicious food and a view of Waikiki Beach.
Sunrise Shack: Located in several areas around the North Shore, here you can try the freshest smoothie bowls filled to the brim with all sorts of goodness.
North Shore Shrimp Truck: Enjoy a plate of rice & shrimp in three ways while catching the North Shore sunset.
Day trip in Oahu, Hawaiʻi
Hanauma Bay is a beautiful white sand beach set into a cove that was created by a violent eruption that blew out one side of the crater, creating the crescent moon-shaped beach that is filled with endless species of beautiful fish, coral reefs and beautiful marine life. This preserve has about 400 species of fish known to inhabit the bay. The bay is known for an abundance of green sea turtles and known as well for an abundance of parrotfish, yellow tang, angel fish, trumpet fish, parrot fish, butterfly fish and more. There are not too many shady areas on the beach, so be sure to pack extra sun protection such as hats, sunglasses, and umbrellas if you plan to hang out on the beach for a while. This is true snorkeling heaven with endless coral reefs to explore.
Need to know
If you are a real adventurer, you can explore a vast majority of the island in five to seven days.
Travel Advisor
Jenny Ballou
Get in touch with Jenny
Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.
You can normally expect a response from Jenny within a business day or so. You’ll also be subscribed to our travel newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).