Oahu is an outdoor destination with many exciting opportunities awaiting. It is home to some of the most beautiful beaches worldwide, guaranteeing a day full of relaxation on their sandy shores. Its historical sites, such as the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, offer a glimpse into its tragic history, especially during the Second World War. You will spend an entire day hopping from one memorable attraction to another. If you thought this Hawaiian island was fantastic during the daytime, wait until the sun goes down. The night is forever young here as there are so many things to do at night in Oahu. Let’s discuss them in this blog.
Also Read:
Chat with AI about Sunset Catamaran Cruises- Enjoy A Sunset Cruise Along The Waikiki Coast
- Experience Hawaiian Traditional Luau
- Catch An Exciting Evening Show At Polynesian Cultural Center
- Enjoy Moonwalks In Waimea Valley
- Book A Honolulu Zoo Twilight Tours
- Go For A Night Hike At The Makapu'u Lighthouse
- Fill Your Belly At Hard Rock Cafe Honolulu
- Explore Oahu's Bars And Nightclubs
Enjoy A Sunset Cruise Along The Waikiki Coast
- Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Price Range: $56 onwards
We begin our list with a traditional sunset cruise along the Waikiki coast. The vibrant Waikiki is among the top neighborhoods to stay in Oahu. It features paradisical beaches, luxury hotels, local restaurants, and cute cafes. You can catch a beautiful sunset from Waikiki Beach. For a better experience, we recommend booking a sunset cruise. These cruises are usually two hours long and feature front-row seats to see the beautiful scenery of the sun sinking into the horizon. For couples, a romantic sunset cocktail cruise is a must.
Experience Hawaiian Traditional Luau
- Show Duration: 3 to 4 hours
- Price: $115 to $275 per person
- Dress Code: Hawaiian-style aloha shirts, loose and comfy shorts, muumuus, sarongs with tank tops, sandals/sneakers
Turn your evening magical with a traditional Hawaiian Luau. The ‘luau’ comes from the Hawaiian word ‘aha’aina,’ meaning ‘gathering for a meal.’ This tradition celebrates Hawaiian food, culture, music, and dance. Luau usually starts around 5 PM and lasts for 3 to 4 hours. Expect a sumptuous feast with Hawaiian delicacies like Kalua Pig, Lomi Lomi Salmon, and Poi. This feast includes hula dancing, live music, and fire knife dancing. The dress code for men contains Hawaiian-style aloha shirts and comfy shorts, while women’s attire includes tropical sundresses, muumuus, and maxi dresses.
Catch An Exciting Evening Show At Polynesian Cultural Center
- Address: 55-370 Kamehameha Hwy, Laie, HI 96762, United States; Google Map
- Opening Hours: 12:15 PM – 9 PM
- Show Duration: 90 minutes
- Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram
The Polynesian Cultural Center is among the famous tourist spots in Oahu. It offers an authentic Hawaiian experience with its six island villages and royal Aliʻi Lūʻau feast. It also provides an exciting night show, “HĀ: Breath of Life.” This evening show tells the symbolic story of Mana and his beloved Lani, featuring birth, death, tragedy, triumph, love, and family themes. It features over 100 Polynesian performers, special effects, song, dance, animation, and blazing fireknives. Spend your evening watching this best Hawaiian live show.
Enjoy Moonwalks In Waimea Valley
- Address: Haleiwa, HI 96712, United States; Google Map
- Opening Hours: 9 AM – 4 PM
- Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram
Let’s explore North Shore‘s infamous Waimea Valley. This valley has historical and cultural significance and is home to ancient Hawaiian archaeological sites. While many enjoy hiking to the valley during the daytime, moonwalks in the area will be perfect for those looking for things to do at night in Oahu. This unique experience will let you explore Waimea Valley’s beautiful landscapes at night. The moon is significant among native Hawaiians and offers light while touring the valley in the dark.
Book A Honolulu Zoo Twilight Tours
- Twilight Tour Days: Saturdays
- Tour Times: September-March: 4:30-6:30 PM; April-August: 5:30-7:30 PM
- Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram
Did you know Honolulu Zoo operates beyond its opening hours? This family-friendly Oahu destination is jam-packed during the daytime, with visitors coming to see its 900 animals. To cater to diverse requests, the zoo hosts Twilight Tours. This two-hour guided tour shows how the zoo looks after the gates close. It takes visitors to see the bedtime rituals of animals, learn about the animals’ behavior and biology, and visit some of the most intriguing species. Prepare comfortable walking shoes, a camera, and an umbrella (in case it rains).
Go For A Night Hike At The Makapu’u Lighthouse
- Address: Waimanalo, HI 96795, United States; Google Map
- Opening Hours: 7 AM – 7:45 PM
- Things To Do: Hiking, Birdwatching
Do you dare to go on a night hike to the Makapu’u Point Lighthouse? This 2-hour trail offers stunning views of Oahu’s southeastern shoreline, including Koko Crater and Koko Head. It is a moderately challenging route with paved ways, making it easier to hike at any time of the day. The Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail is ideal for sunrise and sunset hikes. However, hiking during a moonlit night will showcase the different side of this route that is not visible otherwise.
Fill Your Belly At Hard Rock Cafe Honolulu
- Address: 280 Beach Walk, Honolulu, HI 96815, United States; Google Map
- Opening Hours: 8 AM – 10 PM
- Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram
After all those nighttime activities, you must be pretty hungry. So, why not fill up your stomach in Hard Rock Cafe Honolulu? Established on July 15, 1987, this American restaurant is in the heart of Waikiki. It attracts diners with its rock n roll theme and high-energy vibe. It also serves mouthwatering American classics and legendary steak burgers. In addition, you can expect a picturesque dining experience at the restaurant’s ocean-blue wave bar.
Explore Oahu’s Bars And Nightclubs
We are saving the best for the last. Get ready to discover Oahu’s hottest bars and nightclubs. These establishments are usually open late at night and operate until the early hours of the next day.
Sip On Refreshing Drinks At Mai Tai Bar
- Address: 2259 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815, United States; Google Map
- Opening Hours: 11 AM – 11 PM
- Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook
Taste world-class Mai Tai cocktails at Mai Tai Bar. This beachfront bar is only a few steps from Waikiki Beach and offers outdoor seating with stunning Diamond Head views. Since it is named after Mai Tai, you must try this famed drink at least once. The bar also serves a variety of beer, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages. It hosts a live music performance to set the mood.
Listen To Live Jazz And Blues Music At Blue Note Hawaii
- Address: 2335 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815, United States; Google Map
- Opening Hours: 10 AM – 9 PM
- Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram
Are you a jazz and blues fan? Then, you will love visiting Blue Note Hawaii. This Hawaii branch of the infamous Blue Note was launched in January 2016. It features 326 seats and an intimate ambiance. This jazz club hosts live performances by globally renowned and local artists. However, the music is not limited to jazz; it hosts reggae, pop, rock, and comedy performances. Guests can also dine at the venue.
Visit The Hottest Bacchus Waikiki
- Address: 408 Lewers St, Honolulu, HI 96815, United States; Google Map
- Opening Hours: 12 PM – 2 AM
- Social Media: Official Website, Official Instagram
Step inside Oahu’s LGBTQ+ bar, Bacchus Waikiki. Since its launch on August 14, 2011, it has been among the hottest gay bars on the island. It features a vibrant atmosphere with friendly staff and good vibes. This bar serves a variety of draft beers, specialty cocktails, and snacks (pepperoni flatbread, cheesy flatbread). The price is affordable, ranging from $10 and above. In addition, it hosts good music to set the mood for a delightful evening.
Dance The Night Away At The District
- Address: 1349 Kapiolani Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96814, United States; Google Map
- Opening Hours: 8 PM – 4 AM
- Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram
What is nightlife without visiting at least one nightclub? Among hundreds of options, we recommend Honolulu‘s hottest nightlife destination, The District. It is across from Ala Moana Center and near Waikiki. This club features a custom-designed 23-foot DJ booth, 4 private karaoke rooms, 20 VIP tables, and a 36-foot LED wall. It blends dance, hip-hop, and top-40 music, making the atmosphere perfect for clubbing. It also offers salsa dance lessons for those interested.
There is no end to the things to do at night in Oahu. The best part about them is that they are not limited to nightlife activities; you can enjoy family-friendly experiences like the Hawaiian traditional luau. Likewise, late-night attractions like the Polynesian Cultural Center and Honolulu Zoo cater to visitors of all ages. In conclusion, Oahu’s nighttime activities suit solo travelers, families, couples, minors, and adults.
