Explore Oahu
Plan Your Trip to Oahu: Best of Oahu Tourism
Essential Oahu
6 Oahu beaches you can’t miss
- Lanikai Beach3,091Renowned for its crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand, Lanikai is the perfect place for spending the day leisurely dipping in the water or lounging on the sand watching kayakers and outrigger canoes offshore. Parking is limited, so take an Uber or park at nearby Kailua Beach Park and walk from there. This beach is in a residential area, so stick to designated access points and keep noise and litter to a minimum.
- Ala Moana Beach Park2,006For those looking to swim, paddleboard, and possibly spot turtles against the backdrop of the majestic Diamond Head volcano, Ala Moana Beach is the place to be. Popular among locals—especially on weekends—the beach comes alive with blaring boom boxes, barbecues, and bouncy castle birthdays along its half-mile sandy stretch. Conveniently located opposite Ala Moana Center, you can easily grab a poke bowl from Foodland Farms and relax like a true local.
- Waimea Bay1,301In summer, this North Shore beach is a favorite for its soft deep sand and gentle waters. Come winter, it’s a prime spot to catch surfers tackling 40 foot waves. Snorkeling reveals vibrant schools of fish and the occasional Hawaiian sea turtle. Onshore, you might stumble upon a sand surfing session—yes, you can ask to join in the fun. It’s also famous for its enormous half-submerged rock and the thrill-seekers who backflip into the crystal waters below.
- Sandy Beach Park389This South Shore beach is a vibe. There’s always music blasting, plenty of body surfing happening, and bodyboarders facing off huge barrel waves that defy the imagination. Due to the dangerous combination of a powerful shorebreak and shallow water, you should always consult a lifeguard or local before entering the water—and heed any warnings to avoid learning why it’s ominously nicknamed “Breakneck Beach.”
- Yokohama Bay137A 90-minute drive from Waikiki, this picturesque beach has stunning turquoise waters and a dramatic setting in the shadow of the rugged Waianae mountains. On some days, you—and the lifeguard—might be the only people there. Swimming is recommended only in summer and only when the sea is calm. Otherwise, it's a perfect spot for contemplation, watching the mesmerizing hill-shaped waves, and keeping an eye out for breaching whales offshore.
- Waikiki Beach18,801Waikiki Beach gets a bad rep for being overcrowded and commercial—and it is—but it’s also where you can easily surf two- to four-foot waves, do some decent snorkeling on Queen’s Beach, join in a pick-up volleyball game, and spend the whole day people watching. Go before 11 a.m. to grab a chair, or come a couple of hours before sunset when the scene is more relaxed and the sky is painted in hues of pink and purple.
Oahu Is Great For
Fun water sports and activities
Historic landmarks and memorials
Delightful farm and agri tours
Travelers' pro tips for experiencing Oahu
In the words of those who've been there before ...
What is the best way to get there?
Flying:
Honolulu is served by the Honolulu International Airport, a 15-minute drive from downtown Honolulu.
Do I need a visa?
If you’re visiting Oahu from overseas, use the State Department’s Visa Wizard to see if you need a visa.
When is the best time to visit?
The best time to visit Oahu is during a shoulder season: from mid-April to early June or between September and mid-December. Attractions are less crowded, rates are lower, and there are lots of festivals taking place. Expect temperatures in the low 70s (21°C) to high-80s (31°C) in either season.
Car
Renting a car is essential for those who wish to independently explore the island. Rentals are available at the airport and various locations downtown.
Bicycle
Biki is a bicycle-sharing program on Oahu. Visitors can purchase passes for a one-way trip or for multiple stops.
Bus
The public bus service oh Oahu is called TheBus, which runs services around the whole island, including the North Shore. If you are planning to make multiple journeys, you can purchase a day or monthly pass. Note that transfers and large luggage are not allowed.
Taxis
Hailing a taxi on the street in Waikiki is usually easy. In Honolulu, it is easiest around Ala Moana, Downtown, and Pearl Harbor, or the nearest hotel. Elsewhere, call ahead.
Ridesharing
Uber and Lyft are readily available in Honolulu on your smartphone.
Are there local customs I should know?
- Oahu is known for some of its popular attractions, which include:
- We recommend checking out these popular tours when looking for something to do in Oahu: