Aloha! Today, we have an exciting blog about the wonderful Oahu. This island is a haven for outdoor lovers and those seeking a tropical vacation. It offers a sunny retreat with picturesque beaches, vibrant cultural centers, and lush natural landscapes. Now, you might be wondering how many days are enough in Oahu. While it primarily depends on your travel preferences, 5-7 days are ideal for an unforgettable island experience. If you are still confused, check out this Top Itinerary in Oahu: A Guide to 5 Amazing Days On The Island.
Also Read:
- Top 31 Things to Do in Oahu
- Top 13 Family-Friendly Activities in Oahu
- Best Foods to Eat in Oahu and Where to Find Them
Chat with AI about Oahu Dolphin Swim Tours
Things To Know About Oahu
Oahu is nicknamed “The Gathering Place,” symbolizing its history as a center for social and political gatherings. It boasts nearly 1 million people, making it the most populated Hawaiian island. It is also the home to the Hawaii capital, Honolulu. This place is among the top travel US destinations, welcoming 5.61 million visitors in the 2023 season alone. People travel here to marvel at its natural landscapes, learn about Polynesian culture, and indulge in thrilling water activities. That being said, you must understand certain things about Oahu before planning your trip. These include the best time to visit and place to stay.
- Best Time To Visit Oahu: Travel during shoulder months: April to June, September to November
- Best Place To Stay In Oahu: Waikiki, North Shore, Ko Olina, Windward Coast
- Most Visited Places In Oahu: Pearl Harbor National Memorial, Diamond Head State Monument, Waikiki Beach, Lanikai Beach
- Best Tours In Oahu: Pearl Harbor Tours, Circle Island Tours, Helicopter Tours, Guided Walking Heritage Tours
- Things To Do In Oahu: Hiking, Beach Visits, Snorkeling, Swimming, Horseback Riding on Beaches, Historical sites visits
- Things Not To Do In Oahu As A Tourist: Ignoring beach rules, littering, damaging coral reefs, not respecting local culture, hiking unprepared trails
- Social Etiquette Tips: Greet locals by saying ‘Aloha,’ respect the ‘Aina’ (land) and kupuna (elders), give a lei as a gift to welcome someone, dress appropriately when attending a luau
Budgeting For Oahu Travel
We usually associate Hawaiian trips as expensive. While it is accurate, travel costs are not the same for all eight Hawaiian islands. And Oahu is the cheapest destination among them. A luxury trip to this island can cost $3,000 – $10,000, while budget travelers can make do with $1,000 – $2,000 for a week trip. A budget trip for a family of four can cost from $4,000 to $8,000. It’s better to create a budget plan before embarking on your trip.
Transportation
First and foremost, you must fly to reach Oahu. The Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL)is an entry point for Hawaii visitors. This Honolulu airport offers domestic and international flights starting from $104. You can also find cheap flights through Skyscanner, Kiwi.com, or Aviasales.
Upon arrival, you will find public and private transportation options on the island. The Public Transportation options include Honolulu’s award-winning TheBus, Skyline, and TheHandi-Van. TheBus and Skyline charge a Single Fare of $3, while TheHandi-Van charges $2.25 for a one-way trip. You can also choose shuttle services, rideshares, and motorbikes to get around Oahu. If you want to rent a car and drive independently, Klook, Rentalcars, QEEQ, and BikesBooking.com are great options.
Accommodation
Another thing to consider while preparing your Oahu budget is accommodation. This Hawaiian island has numerous hotels, resorts, hostels, and inns offering luxury and affordable stays. Five-star hotels usually charge from $300 to $1,800 per night. Their amenities and services will be worth this impeccable amount. Check out this Top 10 Luxe Places to Stay in Oahu. Budget travelers will find hostels and 2-star hotels for $40 to $100 per night. These cheap properties also offer excellent amenities and Hawaiian hospitality.
Food
A party without cake is just a meeting. Similarly, an Oahu trip without sampling its culinary offerings will always miss that crucial point. This island is heaven for foodies with savory dishes like Poke, Loco Moco, Kalua Pig, and Huli-Huli Chicken. Likewise, Shaved Ice, Acai Bowls, and Malasadas are sweet treats for your tastebuds. These local dishes are super affordable, with prices ranging from $2 onwards. Expect to pay $10 to $30 in a mid-range restaurant and $50+ for a fine dining experience. To learn more, check out this Best Foods to Eat in Oahu and Where to Find Them. A helpful tip: Don’t stick to chain restaurants and explore local eateries, food trucks, and stalls.
Top Itinerary In Oahu: Day 1: Arrival And Waikiki
- Address: Honolulu, HI 96815, USA; Google Map
- Things To Do: Beach visits, shopping, dining
Upon arrival, you will visit the vibrant Waikiki. This neighborhood is nestled within Honolulu, the Hawaiian capital city. It is a primary tourist destination that has something for everyone. Whether you are on a family vacation, looking to relax, or seeking adventure, Waikiki has it all. It has paradisical beaches, charming boutiques, cute cafes, and upscale restaurants. You can enjoy authentic Hawaiian cuisine with live traditional performances. This neighborhood also has many luxury hotels and resorts where you can book a room for your stay. If you want recommendations, check out this Top 10 Luxe Places to Stay in Oahu.
Feel Soft Sand Beneath Your Feet At Waikiki Beach
- Address: Honolulu, HI 96815, United States; Google Map
- Opening Hours: 24 hours
- Things To Do: Sunbathing, Swimming, Surfing, Snorkeling
One of the must-do things in Waikiki is visiting the infamous Waikiki Beach. It is among the most famous beaches worldwide and welcomes millions of visitors annually. It is a perfect destination to relax from jet lag. You can lounge under umbrellas or lie on your beach towels and sunbathe. Waikiki Beach offers exciting watersports, including swimming, snorkeling, surfing, bodyboarding, outrigger canoeing, scuba diving, and paddleboarding. Pick your choice and make the most of your trip. Also, if you visit on Saturdays, drop by the KCC Farmers’ Market to sample local specialties.
Stop by the Waikiki Aquarium
- Address: 2777 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815, United States; Google Map
- Opening Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM
- Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram
Visit the family-friendly Waikiki Aquarium before calling off the day. It is known for its picturesque setting next to a living coral reef on the Waikiki shoreline. This aquarium is the second oldest in the US and features over 3,500 organisms of 490 marine animal species and plants. Its indoor exhibits include the Amazing Adaptations Gallery, Coral Farm, Edge of the Reef, Giant Clams, and Hunters on the Reef. Waikiki Aquarium has the Hawaiian Monk Seal Habitat for the rare Hawaiian Monk Seals. It initially housed two rescued male seals but is closed as of now.
Day 2: Pearl Harbor And Historical Sites
- Address: 1 Arizona Memorial Pl, Honolulu, HI 96818, United States; Google Map
- Opening Hours: 7 AM – 5 PM
- Entry Fee: Free entry, but a $1 non-refundable management fee is charged when booking through Recreation.gov
After sleeping off the jet lag, begin your second day in great spirits. This day is all about learning history at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, especially the tragedies caused by World War II. If you don’t know, Oahu faced a massive Japanese attack that led to the entry of the US into the Second World War. The Pearl Harbor Memorial commemorates the deadly attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, causing the deaths of 1,177 sailors and marines. You must also visit the USS Arizona Memorial, the resting place of those war heroes. The USS Arizona is still underwater, with over 900 sailors and marines inside.
Visit The Battleship Missouri
- Address: 63 Cowpens St, Honolulu, HI 96818, United States; Google Map
- Opening Hours: 8 AM – 4 PM
- Ticket Prices: General Admission: $39.99 (Adults), $19.99 (Children aged 4-12)
- Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram
Continue your historical expedition to the Battleship Missouri Memorial. This USS Missouri (BB-63) warship sailed through many wars, including World War I and II, the Gulf War, and the Korean War. It also saw the historic moment when Japan surrendered to the Allies and ended the Second World War. After buying the General Admission ticket, you can explore independently or take a 35-minute guided ship tour. You can also book an additional 45-minute Captain’s Tour and a 60-minute Chief Engineer’s Tour. Both guided tours cost an extra $32 and are only for those aged 10 and above.
Marvel At The Artifacts Of The Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum
- Address: 319 Lexington Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96818, United States; Google Map
- Opening Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM
- Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram
Finally, our last destination for the second day is the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum. You will stand on the actual battlefield that withstood the Pearl Harbor attack on December 7, 1941. This aviation museum showcases planes and artifacts used during World War II. These warbirds are preserved in their original state and tell the tales of their heroic deeds. Another must-do thing here is booking the Top of the Tower Tour. You will climb up the iconic 168-foot Ford Island Control Tower to get 360 views of all the attack points across Oahu.
If you have more time, visit the USS Oklahoma Memorial, an active-duty military base that is only accessible via the Pearl Harbor Historic Sites Shuttle.
Day 3: North Shore Adventure
Day 3 marks the halfway through this top itinerary in Oahu. You will go on a day trip to the island’s north shore. This region is known for its beautiful beaches and massive waves, which are every surfer’s dream. You can spend two full days in this area, but since we are short on time, let’s follow this 1-day itinerary in North Shore.
Discover Oahu’s Pineapple History At Dole Plantation
- Address: Kānekapōlei St, Honolulu, HI 96815, United States; Google Map
- Opening Hours: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
- Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram
Your first stop will be the famous Dole Plantation. It is located outside of Wahiawa, on the inland border of the North Shore. Launched initially as a fruit stand, this plantation showcases the significance of pineapple in Oahu’s agricultural history. It offers a 20-minute Pineapple Express Train Tour, where you will learn about pineapples’ origin in Hawaii. You can also try an hour-long Plantation Garden Tour, where you will explore the lush mini gardens inside the plantation. For adventure-seekers, we dare you to solve the Pineapple Garden Maze, one of the world’s largest maze. Stop by the Plantation Grille for lunch before heading to your next destination.
Work On Your Tan At Haleiwa Beach
- Address: Haleiwa, HI 96712, United States; Google Map
- Opening Hours: 10 PM – 5 AM
- Things To Do: Sunbathing, Swimming, Surfing, Picnicking
Oahu’s north shore’s main town is Haleiwa. This rural community offers many recreational activities, including back-country hiking, surfing, and horseback riding on beaches. After Dole Plantation, you will visit the infamous Hale’iwa Beach. Here, you can relax, swim, play, and have picnics. This beach is ideal for beginner surfers thanks to its calmer waters. But if you want to experience North Shore’s wild waves, the infamous Waimea Bay is your destination. Only experienced and bravest surfers can handle its 30-foot waves.
Watch The Breathtaking Sunset At Sunset Beach
- Address: Haleiwa, HI 96712, United States; Google Map
- Opening Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM
- Things To Do: Surfing, Snorkeling, Paddle Boarding
After spending much time in Haleiwa Beach, head to the nearby Sunset Beach. As its name suggests, this beach offers stunning sunset views. You can watch the sun set over the horizon from the pier, the beach, and waterfront restaurants. Every day, many come here to capture this picture-perfect moment. Sunset Beach offers many watersports, including surfing. However, surfing is only recommended for experienced surfers. You can also travel to Banzai Pipeline Beach for a thrilling yet dangerous surfing experience.
You can also include a day trip to the nearby islands or regions in your Oahu Itinerary. For recommendations, check out Best 13-Day Tours from Oahu.
Day 4: Hiking and Snorkeling
Gear up for a day full of adventure! Day 1 to 3 was about relaxation and sightseeing. Day 4 brings hiking and snorkeling opportunities. You will spend an entire day participating in exciting outdoor activities. The evening brings a one-of-a-kind traditional Hawaiian experience.
Hike up to Diamond Head
- Address: Honolulu, HI 96815, United States; Google Map
- Things To Do: Hiking, camping, scooter tours
Prepare your sturdy hiking shoes to climb the magnificent Diamond Head. Locally known as Mount Lēʻahi, this volcano features a broad, saucer-shaped crater formed from a single eruption about 300,000 years ago. Start your Day 4 morning following the Diamond Head Summit Trail, a moderately challenging 1.6-mile hike. This trail only takes 2 hours and offers stunning views. At the top of the trail, you will get 360-degree views of Oahu and the Pacific Ocean.
Enjoy Snorkeling At Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
- Address: Hawaii 96825, USA; Google Map
- Things To Do: Snorkeling, Exploring the bay
After an energizing morning hike, your afternoon itinerary includes snorkeling. While Oahu has many snorkeling destinations, Hanauma Bay is among the best. Its calm water houses diverse marine species, including parrotfish, butterflyfish, Hawaiian state fish, Humuhumunukunukuapua’a, and green sea turtles. After diving into the water, you will enter a magical underwater world with abundant colorful fish and coral reefs. This bay offers a one-of-a-kind snorkeling experience that will make your Oahu trip memorable.
Enjoy A Traditional Hawaiian Luau At Waikiki
- Show Duration: 3 to 4 hours
- Price: $115 to $275 per person
- Dress Code: Hawaiian-style aloha shirts, loose and comfy shorts, sandals/sneakers
After a tiring day, return to Waikiki for an epic Hawaiian Luau experience. This Hawaiian feast features entertainment like live music, lei-making, storytelling, Samoan fire knife dancing, and hula dancing. These cultural performances tell the story of Hawaii and Polynesian culture. Local specialties at the feast include Lomi Lomi Salmon, Kalua Pig, Poi, Huli Huli Chicken, Poke, and Chicken Long Rice. You can’t ask for more than a lively evening with good food, drinks, and authentic Hawaiian shows.
While Waikiki resorts and hotels usually host luau dinner shows, you can travel to the Polynesian Cultural Center for the best luau experience. It has everything from island villages to the action-packed fire evening show.
Day 5: Cultural Exploration and Departure
Day 5 is the last day of our Top Itinerary in Oahu. You will visit the must-see attractions of Honolulu before catching your flight. Before saying goodbye to the island, you will tour two historical landmarks and one government building.
Tour The Iolani Palace
- Address: 364 S King St, Honolulu, HI 96813, United States; Google Map
- Opening Hours: 9 AM – 4 PM
- Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram
Our first stop will be the iconic Iolani Palace. This is the only US royal palace that symbolizes Hawaiian regal past, national identity, and rich history. King Kalakaua built the palace in 1882, which housed reigning Hawaiian monarchs until 1893. After the monarchy was overthrown, the building was opened to the public. It still retains its original grandeur, artifacts, and furnishings. You can visit the Iolani Palace’s first and second floors, which house the King and Queen’s Suites, the Grand Hall, the Music Room, and the Imprisonment Room.
Visit The Hawaii State Capitol
- Address: 415 S Beretania St., Honolulu, HI 96813, United States; Google Map
- Opening Hours: 7 AM – 5 PM
- Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook
Next, the Hawaii State Capitol is the official statehouse of Hawaii. It houses the Legislative Reference Bureau and legislative offices and is the working office of the Governor of Hawaii and Lieutenant Governor of Hawaii. Visitors come here to tour the building and marvel at its architectural excellence. The capitol building features Hawaiian architecture and has two cone-shaped legislative chambers (symbolizing volcanoes that formed the Hawaiian Islands). A reflecting pool (symbolizing the Pacific Ocean) surrounds it.
Explore The National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific
- Address: 2177 Puowaina Dr, Honolulu, HI 96813, United States; Google Map
- Opening Hours: 8 AM – 6 PM
- Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook
Our final stop will be the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific. Also called Punchbowl Cemetery, this national cemetery is located at Punchbowl Crater, an extinct volcano tuff cone in Honolulu. It honors the late servicemen of the United States Armed Forces. The soldiers and sailors who died in World War I and II, the Vietnam War, and the Korean War are buried here. This cemetery is also the final resting place of Hawaiian royals, heroes, and Medal of Honor recipients. You will look back at Oahu’s history for the final time before departing.
Finally, your Oahu trip ends. Five days on this island will feel extremely short and make you want to return for more. You can extend your itinerary to 7 days, including attractions like Kualoa Ranch, Byodo-In Temple, Manoa Valley, Magic Island, and Mokolii Island. If you are tight on time or budget, cut your trip short by eliminating activities that don’t fit your interest. The bottom line is to have a wonderful holiday in Oahu.
