If there is one place in Hawaii that fits the description “tropical paradise” perfectly, it would have to be Oahu. The islands have more than their share of idyllic spots, of course. But Oahu somehow stands apart from all the rest. With its many natural and manmade attractions, distinctive culture, and sheer beauty, Oahu is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Hawaii.
So if you’re planning to go to the islands any time soon and you want to experience the best that Hawaii has to offer, read on to learn about magical Oahu!
Best Places To Go In Oahu
What so many sights to see and things to do, there’s no way we can cover it all in the space of one page. But we can sure give it our best shot! Here are some of the best places to visit and most rewarding activities to enjoy in Oahu:
Hanauma Bay
Snorkeling is one of the most popular activities in Hawaii, and there is no better location for it than Oahu. With plenty of sea turtles and more than 400 fish species that make their home in the waters of the bay, you are sure to have a great time!
Ko’olau Mountain Range
Breathtaking sights are in store at Ko’olau, which was formed by ancient volcanoes millions of years ago. The cliffs on the Eastern side are especially magnificent, and they are made even more impressive by the waterfalls that cascade down during the rainy months.
La’ie Point
Cliff diving is another time-honored Hawaiian tradition, and La’ie Point on the North Shore is the ideal place to test your nerves! The cliffs here are pretty safe compared to other diving hotspots, but there are still plenty of opportunities to show off your skills.
North Shore
Speaking of the North Shore, this legendary surfing spot is where you can go to brave the waves. It is probably better suited for experienced surfers and pros due to the 30-footers commonly seen in the area. Still, there are more moderate waves on occasion and even beginner lessons in calmer waters.
Pearl Harbor
Historic Pearl Harbor is a definite must-visit for history and WWII buffs. Memorabilia displays, recreations, and authentic aircraft and water vessels make for a fascinating deviation from all the outdoor fun and excitement.
Check out this historic experience with our pearl harbor tour!
Diamond Head
Some of the most spectacular views in Oahu can be seen from the Diamond Head summit. Here you can enjoy the gleaming ocean for miles around and magnificent Waikiki as well. It’s an easy hike to the top and is definitely worth the trip.
Waikiki
Of course, no visit to Oahu would be complete without a day spent at Waikiki. The crowds can get a bit much during peak tourist season, but the pristine beaches, crystal blue waters, and calm waves make it well worth visiting. Waikiki is also a great place to learn surfing if you are an absolute beginner.
Kualoa Ranch
Oahu has been the site of several Hollywood blockbusters, including Jurassic Park! Tour Jurassic Valley by ATV and even check out the set for the films. Kualoa Ranch also offers ziplines, mountain bike tours, horseback riding, and much more!
Open-Door Helicopter Tour
Finally, consider booking an open-door helicopter tour, which is undoubtedly the most exciting way to enjoy the sights of Oahu. The trip gives you a bird’s-eye view of many of the island’s most popular attractions, and you even get a custom DVD of your experience afterward!
The Best Times To Visit Oahu
So when should you plan your trip to Oahu? Almost any time of year is a good time to drop by, but mid-April to early June and September to mid-December are usually the best times to visit. It is then that the crowds aren’t too heavy and accommodations are priced lowest. There are also plenty of festivals to participate in, which is a large part of what makes the Oahu experience so memorable.
If you do decide to visit in mid-June to August, you’ll get to enjoy a lot more sunshine and a lot less rainfall. You could also plan your trip from late December to early April, during which time you can surf the waves on the North Shore or catch sight of pro surfing events.
As you can see, Oahu offers a bewildering array of attractions and activities. So if all that appeals to you, what are you waiting for? Book a trip to Oahu today and find out for yourself why it is one of the most popular destinations in the world! And then once you’re hear don’t forget to get a professional shuttle service from the Honolulu airport to your destination!