Oahu, Hawaii is a popular vacation destination known for its beautiful beaches, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. If you’re planning a trip to Oahu, you’ll want to make the most of your time on the island. From hiking to surfing to exploring historical sites, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy. Here are the top 10 things to do in Oahu that you won’t want to miss.

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Kayak out to the Sandbar in Kaneohe

The Sandbar in Kaneohe is located in the middle of Kaneohe Bay, on the east side of Oahu, Hawaii. It is a natural sandbar that appears during low tide and is surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters. This is a popular spot for boating, kayaking, paddle boarding, and snorkeling. Visitors can also enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking on the sandbar. 

While you could enjoy the area you may be able to spot some of the marine life that surrounds it such as sea turtles, dolphins, and colorful tropical fish. You can run into them while you are snorkeling or swimming around the sandbar!

The Sandbar in Kaneohe is only accessible by boat or kayak. Visitors can rent boats or kayaks from nearby marinas or take a guided tour to get to the Sandbar. 

Keep in mind when visiting, to be mindful of your impact on the environment and follow the Leave No Trace principles to help preserve this natural wonder. 

Snorkel in Hanauma bay

Go snorkeling or scuba diving Oahu is home to some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving spots in the world. Hanauma Bay is one of them!

Hanauma Bay is a Nature Preserve Hanauma Bay is a nature preserve located on the eastern side of Oahu, Hawaii. It is a protected marine life conservation area and is home to over 400 species of fish and other marine life. Snorkeling is the main attraction at Hanauma Bay, because of the crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life. Making it a popular spot for snorkelers of all skill levels. 

Not experienced with snorkeling? Don’t worry, equipment rentals are available at the park, including snorkels, masks, and fins. Safety is a top priority at Hanauma Bay. Before entering the water, all visitors are required to watch a short video about the park’s rules and regulations. Lifeguards are also on duty to ensure the safety of all visitors. 

The best time to snorkel at Hanauma Bay is in the morning when the water is calm and visibility is at its best. The park opens at 6 am, so arrive early to beat the crowds. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen and water with you as well! The sun can be intense, and it’s important to stay hydrated while snorkeling.

Lay out or explore as many beaches as possible

You can’t think of Hawaii without thinking of their beaches! Here are a few beaches that would be a great stop while visiting the Islands.

Waikiki Beach Located in Honolulu

Waikiki Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Hawaii. It offers a stunning view of Diamond Head and is perfect for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. The beach is also surrounded by restaurants, shops, and hotels, making it a popular tourist destination. 

Kaanapali Beach 

Kaanapali Beach is located on the west coast of Maui and is known for its crystal-clear waters and soft white sand. It is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The beach is also surrounded by resorts, restaurants, and shops, making it a great place to spend the day. 

Hapuna Beach 

Hapuna Beach is located on the Big Island of Hawaii and is known for its long stretch of white sand and clear blue waters. It is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The beach is also surrounded by picnic areas, restrooms, and showers, making it a great place for families. 

Lanikai Beach

 Lanikai Beach is located on the east coast of Oahu and is known for its turquoise waters and soft white sand. It is perfect for swimming, kayaking, and sunbathing. The beach is also surrounded by palm trees and offers stunning views of the Mokulua Islands. 

Poipu Beach 

Poipu Beach is located on the south coast of Kauai and is known for its calm waters and golden sand. It is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The beach is also surrounded by resorts, restaurants, and shops, making it a great place to spend the day.

Napili Bay Beach

Napili Bay Beach is located on the west coast of Maui and is known for its calm waters and soft white sand. It is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The beach is also surrounded by resorts, restaurants, and shops, making it a great place to spend the day. 

Sunset dinner cruise out of Waikiki 

A sunset dinner cruise out of Waikiki is the perfect way to experience the beauty of the area at one of its most magical times. The colors of the sky and the ocean are truly breathtaking, and you’ll have a front-row seat to it all. 

Enjoy a delicious meal often featuring local cuisine. You’ll get to enjoy a multi-course meal while taking in the stunning views around Diamond Head and the Waikki Skyline from a new perspective. 

On this cruise you can take in live entertainment, many sunset cruises out of Waikkki include live entertainment, such as hula dancing or live music! The perfect activity for couples or groups. It’s a memorable experience that everyone will enjoy.

Hike Koko head 

What is Koko Head? Koko Head is a volcanic cone located on the eastern side of Oahu, Hawaii. It is a popular hiking destination for locals and tourists alike, offering stunning views of the island and the Pacific Ocean. 

The hike up Koko Head is a challenging one, with over 1,000 steps to climb. The trail is steep and rocky, so it is important to wear appropriate footwear and bring plenty of water. The hike can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your fitness level. Once you reach the top of Koko Head, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the island. You can see the coastline, the ocean, and even the neighboring island of Molokai on a clear day. It is the perfect spot to take photos and soak in the beauty of Hawaii. 

Tips for Hiking Koko Head – Wear comfortable and sturdy shoes with good traction – Bring plenty of water and snacks – Start early in the morning to avoid the heat of the day – Take breaks as needed and listen to your body – Be respectful of the environment and other hikers – Leave no trace and pack out all trash 

While hiking Koko Head can be a fun and rewarding experience, it is important to take safety precautions. The trail can be steep and slippery, so it is important to watch your step and stay on the designated path. It is also important to be aware of the weather conditions and avoid hiking during heavy rain or thunderstorms. 

UTV tour at KUALOA Ranch 

Kualoa Ranch is a 4,000-acre private nature reserve located on the windward side of Oahu, Hawaii. The ranch is home to lush green valleys, towering mountains, and stunning ocean views. An UTV tour is the perfect way to experience the beauty of Kualoa Ranch up close and personal. 

Kualoa Ranch offers a variety of UTV tour options to fit your schedule and interests. You can choose from a one-hour tour, a two-hour tour, or a three-hour tour. Each tour takes you through different parts of the ranch, giving you a unique perspective of the area. 

One of the best things about an UTV tour at Kualoa Ranch is that you get to explore areas that are off the beaten path. You’ll drive through lush forests, cross streams, and climb up steep hills. It’s an adventure that you won’t forget. 

Kualoa Ranch has a rich history that dates back to ancient Hawaiian times. During your UTV tour, you’ll learn about the history of the ranch and the important role it played in Hawaiian culture. You’ll also learn about the different movies and TV shows that have been filmed on the ranch, including Jurassic Park and Lost. This palce is home to a variety of wildlife, including wild pigs, goats, and horses. During your UTV tour, you’ll have the opportunity to see these animals up close and personal. You may even spot a Hawaiian monk seal or a green sea turtle in the ocean. 

Dive with sharks in Haleiwa  

Experience the thrill of a lifetime! Diving with sharks in Haleiwa is an unforgettable experience that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. You’ll get up close and personal with some of the ocean’s most fascinating creatures, and witness their behavior in their natural habitat. Despite the thrill of diving with sharks, safety is always a top priority. The dive is conducted in a controlled environment with experienced guides who are trained to handle any situation that may arise. You’ll be provided with all the necessary equipment and briefed on safety procedures before the dive. 

Diving with sharks in Haleiwa is not only an exciting adventure, but it’s also an opportunity to learn about shark conservation. The guides will educate you on the importance of these creatures in the ocean’s ecosystem and how we can help protect them. 

Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a beginner, diving with sharks in Haleiwa is suitable for all levels of experience. The guides will tailor the dive to your skill level and ensure that you feel comfortable throughout the experience.

 Explore the beautiful underwater world. Aside from the sharks, the waters around Haleiwa are home to a diverse range of marine life. You’ll have the opportunity to explore the beautiful underwater world and witness the vibrant coral reefs and colorful fish that call it home

Support local businesses. By choosing to dive with sharks in Haleiwa, you’ll be supporting local businesses and the community. The dive operators are passionate about sharing their love for the ocean and the creatures that inhabit it, and your support helps them continue to do so.

Road Trip Around the Island

Take the perfect road trip on the east coast of Oahu, Im sharing all the best places to stop!

Start at the iconic Waikiki Beach.

This world-famous beach is known for its crystal-clear waters, soft sand, and stunning views of Diamond Head. Don’t be shy to take a dip in the ocean or relax on the beach before hitting the road. 

Then Check out Hanauma Bay.

This bay is a protected marine life conservation area. This beautiful bay is perfect for snorkeling and swimming, with an abundance of colorful fish and coral reefs to explore. Be sure to arrive early, as the parking lot fills up quickly. 

The Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail

It is a must-see on the east coast of Oahu. This scenic hike offers breathtaking views of the ocean and coastline, as well as the opportunity to spot humpback whales during the winter months. The trail is relatively easy and suitable for all skill levels. 

Get your adventure on at Kualoa Ranch.

Which is a 4,000-acre nature reserve that offers a variety of activities, including horseback riding, ATV tours, and zip-lining. The ranch is also home to several famous movie locations, including Jurassic Park and Lost. 

Explore North Shore of Oahu

known for its world-class surfing and laid-back vibe. Stop at Sunset Beach, Pipeline, and Waimea Bay to watch the surfers catch some waves. You can also visit the charming town of Haleiwa, which is filled with local shops and restaurants. 

Visit the Polynesian Cultural Center

It is a living museum that showcases the culture and traditions of the Polynesian islands. Visitors can enjoy traditional dances, music, and food from Hawaii, Samoa, Tonga, Fiji, and more. 

Stop and take in the Byodo-In Temple.

That is a stunning replica of a 900-year-old temple in Japan. This peaceful and serene temple is surrounded by lush gardens and a koi pond, making it the perfect place to end your road trip on the east coast of Oahu.

 Skydive in Mokuleia

Experience the thrill of a lifetime Skydiving in Mokuleia is an experience that you will never forget. The adrenaline rush of jumping out of a plane at 14,000 feet and freefalling for 60 seconds is an unforgettable experience that will leave you feeling exhilarated and alive. 

Enjoy breathtaking views As you soar through the air, you will be treated to breathtaking views of the North Shore of Oahu. You will see the crystal-clear waters of the Pacific Ocean, the lush green mountains, and the stunning coastline. You will be jumping with experienced instructors who have thousands of jumps under their belts. They will guide you through the entire process, from the safety briefing to the landing. 

Whether you are a first-time skydiver or an experienced jumper, there are different jump options to choose from. You can do a tandem jump, where you are attached to an instructor, or a solo jump if you have completed the necessary training. 

Most skydiving companies offer photo and video packages, so you can relive the experience and share it with your friends and family. You will have a professional photographer and videographer jumping with you to capture every moment of your jump. 

Cross it off your bucket list Skydiving is a bucket list item for many people, and Mokuleia is the perfect place to do it. It is a beautiful location with perfect weather conditions for skydiving. So why not take the leap and cross it off your bucket list?