Adventurers, Foodies and Sun Worshipers: Why Oahu Is the Perfect Destination for Any Type of Traveler
Curated By
Allison Biggs
Curator’s statement
Exhilarating hiking, Polynesian cooking and some of the most beautiful beaches in the world await on the Hawai'ian island of Oahu. This vacation favorite has something to offer any type of traveler – and anyone seeking variety in their vacation. I've traveled to Oahu four times and each trip has brought a new experience.
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Where to stay in Oahu
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Things to do in Oahu
Beaches:
Waikiki Beach - The most popular beach on the island, Waikiki is often touted as a tourist magnet, but travelers can find a fun beach escape just steps from their hotel. Take a surf lesson or an outrigger canoe ride, or simply enjoy the beautiful waves sparkling under Diamond Head. And make sure to catch a sunset on Waikiki Beach.
Lanikai Beach - My favorite beach on the island, Lanikai is a residential neighborhood about 30 minutes from Waikiki. Famous for its two small island mountains known as the Mokes that dot the horizon, this beach is ideal for relaxing, swimming and kayaking. You'll mostly find locals here, and it's the perfect place to bring a picnic lunch and hang for the day.
Haliewa Alii Beach - On the North Shore, this beach in the historic town of Haliewa is the perfect spot to watch surfers in the winter months. Come here after grabbing a plate of shrimp from Giovanni's and enjoy the show.
Kualoa Beach - Under the imposing mountain ridges and vast treeline, this beach will make you feel like you've stepped into Jurassic Park. And, really, you have! Right next to the famous Kualoa Ranch, where Jurassic Park was filmed, Kualoa Beach gives the same prehistoric vibe. It's a super peaceful spot and great for families.
Hanama Bay: One of the most naturally beautiful places on Oahu, Hanama Bay is a preservation site that offers amazing snorkeling. You have to pay and reserve a time to enter, which is all part of their conservation efforts, but the result is an oasis of tropical fish and stunning views in their uncrowded horseshoe-shaped bay.
Hikes:
Diamond Head Crater - One of the most popular and easiest on the island, hiking Diamond Head is a right of passage for any Oahu visitor. The World War II-era pillbox at the top of the crater provides a glimpse into the past while sweeping views of the Pacific make the relatively quick 30-minute ascent totally worth it. At the bottom, make sure to grab some shave ice to rehydrate!
Koko Head Crater - For those seeking a challenge on their vacation, Koko Head Crater is a daunting 1.6-mile trek up over 1000 "steps" – old, World War II railroad ties. It is extremely difficult but very rewarding, with incredible views from the top of Waikiki, Hanama Bay, and the Pacific. I've hiked Koko Head twice and can say with confidence that it's one of the hardest things I've done. During the hike, you'll see many locals treating it as their own Stairmaster, running up and down the steps and sometimes passing you on their way up for a second time! When you're done torturing yourself, there's a Leonards food truck in the strip mall parking lot nearby, where you should definitely treat yourself to a fresh, hot malasada.
Lanikai Pillbox - On a mountain ridge overlooking Lanikai Beach, this moderately difficult but quick hike awards stunning views of the Mokes. Parts of the hike are pretty steep, but the quick elevation gain means it's over before you know it. Hang out at the pillbox on top before your descent. Pro tip: park in the residential neighborhood between the trailhead and the beach, that way you can quickly get out to the water to cool off after your hike.
A note from Allison
North Shore - A drive to North Shore is the perfect way to get away from Waikiki for a day. You can take the fast route through the middle of the island. This will take you straight past the Dole Plantation, where you can stop for a delicious Dole Whip. Explore Haleiwa town and watch surfers on the Bonzai pipeline. Either drive back the same way, or take the Kamehameha Highway all the way back to Waikiki from the west coast of the island. There are several iconic stops along this drive, including the Halona Blowhole.
Places to eat & drink in Oahu
Breakfast and coffee:
Honolulu Coffee at Moana Surfrider - A beachy cafe in the Moana Surfrider that serves coffee and pastries, and sells some really cool souvenirs. Get the Hawai'ian latte, made with macadamia nut and coconut flavors.
Liliha Bakery - Located on the top floor of the International Market Place Waikiki, this bakery has delicious malasada and poi donuts. Try the lilikoi (passionfruit), haupia (coconut), and chocolate malasada, and get at least two of the squishy poi rings.
Sunshine Shack - Located on Waikiki and North Shore, Sunshine Shack serves fresh and fruity acai bowls and smoothies. You can customize the bowls with any toppings you want, and I definitely recommend grabbing some of their merch. Take your bowl to go and enjoy it right on Waikiki Beach.
Leonards - Iconic for it's hot malasada donuts, Leonards has a store location near Waikiki and a food truck near Koko Head. The store is always slammed, so if you find yourself near Koko Head I'd recommend stopping by for a quick donut fix. Their malasada comes in original, cinnamon sugar and sweet and sour, and you can get fillings like original, haupia, and chocolate. I usually get a half dozen to take back to the hotel with me.
Lunch and dinner:
Marugame Udon - The best udon you will ever have! This Japanese outpost serves fresh, handmade, springy udon noodles in warm beef broth. You can choose your toppings, but I always get the shaved beef with crispy onions. You can also get really good tempura and musubi. Every time I've gone to Waikiki, I have come here at least three times per trip!
Musubi Cafe - Order a variety of spam musubi at this tiny hole-in-the-wall counter. My favorites are the spam with egg and cheese, teriyaki and fried chicken musubi.
Foodland - Foodland is a grocery store chain throughout Hawai'i, and they truly have some of the tastiest poke. You can order one to two types of fish and a few toppings, as well as fresh sides like seaweed salad. You can also stock up on snacks and see the crazy prices of Hawai'ian groceries!
Ono Seafood - This is another spot for really good poke where you can add a lot of toppings. I recommend getting a guava juice to go with it.
Doraku Sushi - There are tons of spots for great sushi in Waikiki, but I love going to this spot at the International Market Place. They have a robust menu of specialty rolls, yummy appetizers, and great cocktails. And the service is always top notch!
Duke's at Queen Kapiolani - This is the best spot for drinks, specifically their mai tai's. They use fresh, local ingredients and Hawai'ian liquors to make the cocktail. Be warned - they're stronger than they taste, with three different liquors! The view of Diamond Head is unmatched here – make sure to go during sunset to see the iconic crater glow in the sunlight.
Travel Advisor
Allison Biggs
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Oahu. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out Katherine Flynn's guide, A Guide to the Best Places to Eat in Oahu.