The places, most named first
From the 8 guides that rank for "best places to visit in oahu"
Named by 7 of 81. WaikikiGentle waves make it one of the best spots for beginner surfers; crowded year-round.Famous for beaches, nightlife, shopping and dining along Kalakaua Avenue.
Named by 5 of 82. Pearl Harbor National MemorialCalled the most sought-after tour on the island, so reservations can be hard to get.Visit the USS Arizona Memorial and learn about December 7, 1941.
Named by 4 of 83. North ShoreRural coastline famous for huge winter surf; usually calm enough to swim in summer.Waimea Bay has golden sand and blue water, with a more relaxed vibe than Waikiki.
Named by 4 of 84. Kualoa RanchA private ranch in a windward valley used as a filming location, explored only on guided tours.Over 200 films and shows were shot in the valley, including Jurassic Park.
Named by 4 of 85. Hanauma BayA curved bay in a volcanic crater, protected as a nature preserve for snorkeling over coral.Early morning visits are suggested, when the ocean is calm and there is less traffic.
Named by 3 of 86. Polynesian Cultural CenterOn the North Shore with themed villages for each Pacific island, about an hour and a half from Waikiki.Takes most of a day, so plan it as a full outing from Honolulu.
Named by 3 of 87. Iolani PalaceThe only royal palace in the United States, in downtown Honolulu.Book ahead, as the number of visitors each day is limited.
Named by 3 of 88. Diamond HeadA moderately challenging hike with panoramic views of Honolulu and the Pacific.Out-of-state visitors must reserve an entry time; early morning avoids the worst heat.
Named by 3 of 89. Lanikai BeachLess crowded, with calm water, and suggested for a full day of swimming.Good for swimming and kayaking on the windward side; arrive early for parking.
Named by 3 of 810. Makapuu Beach ParkWild and rugged with strong waves for bodysurfers, and a good sunrise spot.The Makapuu Point Lighthouse hike has southeast coast views and winter whale sightings.
Named by 3 of 811. Banzai PipelineA reef break known for massive waves, best watched November to February.The Billabong Pipeline Masters is held there in January.
Named by 2 of 812. Kailua BeachWhite sand on the windward side that suits swimming and kayaking.
Named by 2 of 813. Koko CraterThe Koko Crater Stairs hike climbs over 1,000 steps and is harder than Diamond Head.
Named by 2 of 814. Bishop MuseumExhibits on Hawaiian heritage, Polynesian culture and natural history.
15. Manoa FallsA relatively easy trail to a waterfall in the lush Manoa Valley.
16. Byodo-In TempleA smaller replica of a 1,000-year-old temple in Japan, in a memorial park in Kaneohe.
17. Ala Moana Beach ParkA protected lagoon keeps the water flat and clear, a calmer option just west of Waikiki.
18. Sharks CoveA top snorkeling spot with a fraction of the crowd at Hanauma Bay, best in summer.
19. Waimea ValleyBotanical gardens with a swim at Waimea Falls, known for bird-watching.
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When to go
Travel guides most often name April to May and September to October as the best time to visit Oahu.
Questions people ask
- Where should first timers go in Hawaii?
- One writer recommends Oahu as the best island for a first visit, giving the most well-rounded Hawaii trip.
