Do you start your travel planning by making a list of your must-visit spots at your destination? Me too! Allow me to help you with your trip to Oahu with the top places you need to add to your itinerary.
Like most of the bigger Hawaiian islands, there are a ton of places to see and things to do in Oahu. Situated in between the green Kauai and lesser-visited Molokai islands, it makes for a perfect stop while island hopping in Hawaii! After traveling there for a week, these are the top 10 spots you cannot miss during your Oahu trip.
1. Hanauma Bay
Hanauma Bay stumped me when I went there. Sure, I had high expectations going in considering that it is a hyped place. But for a newbie snorkeller such as myself, the experience of snorkeling for the first time in its shallow waters and being able to see such a variety of marine life only a few feet from shore was a huge benefit.
Start early in the day to get the best views at Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve. Being some of the first ones here means that you will be treated with crystal clear waters and the best visibility possible to see the fish (and if you’re lucky, some green bay turtles!). Note that you can also learn about reef conservation efforts and the impact that over-tourism can cause on a fragile marine ecosystem here.
Traveling in Oahu? Check out my perfect one week itinerary for Oahu in Hawaii and get travel tips and ideas about where to stay!
2. Lanai Lookout
Before you start your day at Hanauma bay, drive up the Kalanianaʻole highway to the Lanai lookout for a quick stop to watch the sunrise over the Pacific waters. A sunrise in the Hawaiian islands is one of the most singularly beautiful moments you will experience. This viewpoint offers a panoramic view of the sea and the cliffs over which it is situated. On clear days, you can see the islands of Lanai, Molokai and Maui. You even can walk over to the stunning lava formations from the parking lot (be careful though).
3. Drive down the Pali highway
Not technically one of the top “spots” in Oahu, but definitely something that should be on your to-do list is to drive down the Pali highway. In fact, if you hit one of the locations on this list, you will probably do so anyway! Have your camera out and ready as you make your way along the scenic winding road with views of the sheer Koolau cliffs. Gaze at the fascinating ridges covered in an intense green covering the volcanic black mountains.
Stop at Nu’uanu Pali lookout for a panoramic view of the mountains and Kailua coastline.
4. Hoomaluhia Botanical Gardens
Alright, this may have been my favorite photography spot in Oahu, so I am definitely biased. And there is more to this place than its awesome Instagrammable entrance! Named “a peaceful refuge”, these 400-acre gardens make for a fun day trip on the windward side of the island. Here, you can see numerous species of plants native to the Hawaiian islands, as well as from different countries of Asia, Tropical America, Polynesia, and Africa.
There are 4 lots where you can park your car, and stroll around. Walk around the Loko Waimaluhia lake with the stunning Ko’olau Mountains as the backdrop. And check this out – you can also go fishing and camping here, and even host a wedding! No wonder it made it to my top spots in Oahu list (and clearly I am obsessed ;))!
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5. Lanikai Pillbox(es)
The Lanikai Pillboxes easily makes it to the top spots in Oahu! They are situated in the south eastern side of the islands overlooking the Kailua bay. On this hike, you will get to see 2 old military bunkers (aka pillboxes). Be sure to carry plenty of water since this trail does not provide much shade. Also, don’t forget to wear some sturdy hiking shoes, especially if it rained in the previous days, as you can expect portions of the trail to be muddy.
Plan to go right before sunset for views both in the daylight and after dark. After twilight, you will be rewarded with fairy tale views thanks to the twinkling lights from the city.
Start the trail at Kaelepulu Dr and park on the street (Note: there is no designated parking since this is not a recognized trail). The climb is steep with some rocky parts, but once you reach the 1st military bunker (Pillbox 1), you will be rewarded with panoramic views of Kailua Bay and Lanikai Beach. Continue on the trail for a little longer to check out the second pillbox (Pillbox 2).
6. Halona Blowhole
A curious little spot you must check out is the Halona Blowhole. The blowhole is a natural site created by lava tubes from volcanic activity thousands of years ago. The waters crash against the lava tubes and enter the hole to create a unique geyser that blows up to a height of 30 feet!
You can park in the limited parking lot and watch the blowhole right from there. On the other side, check out the Halona Beach Cove while you are there and take a quick dip or sun on the beach. Be careful though, the waters around here can be quite rough.
7. Laniakea Beach
Laniakea beach is a spot on the North Shore where you can spot some green bay sea turtles lazing on the sand. You will need to park on the other side of the highway and cross the road to the beach. While we did not see any turtles 🙁 the beach was stunning. It was also quite empty, which was nice.
While driving on 83, stop to try the shrimp from the famous North Shore food truck at Famous Kahuku Shrimp truck.
Wanna try local foods in Oahu? Check out these 18 foods you should try in Oahu!
8. Diamond Head
The ubiquitous Diamond Head also makes it to the top spots in Oahu list. It is a 300,000 years old volcanic cone crater and you can take a trail to an edge of it. Known as “Le’ahi” in Hawaiian, the climb to the top of Diamond Head and back is 1.8 miles and is a heavily trafficked, but short trail. It is close to Waikiki and is a moderate hike. Go early in the morning though, as it can get hot when the sun is high.
9. Pearl Harbor
History buffs cannot miss Pearl Harbor when in Oahu! You will know it as the place that initiated US involvement in World War II after the Japanese bombed this site. Today, a memorial exists on top of the sunken ship.
The main areas to visit at Pearl Harbor are the USS Arizona memorial, Battleship Missouri Memorial, USS Bowfin Submarine Museum and Park and Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum. Make sure you book a ticket in advance, especially if you are traveling during peak travel times.
10. Waikiki
The Waikiki area is the most popular part of Oahu to make your home base, and for good reason! Being a city means you can easily access world-class restaurants, an awesome beach, and a hike to the top of Diamond Head close by.
And speaking of the beach, Waikiki beach is lined with some awesome restaurants overlooking the ocean. Spend an evening sipping on a cocktail, sampling fresh seafood and enjoying the sunset.
So there you have it! These are the top spots in Oahu you absolutely cannot miss. Each spot is special in its own way. And there are multiple ways you can enjoy them.
If you are traveling to Hawaii for a few days, check out my one week guide to Oahu.
Did I mention the spots you were planning to go to? Let me know in a comment below!
Traveling around Hawaii? Check out my other Hawaii posts here!
