There are plenty of things to do in Oahu.
You can visit the iconic Pearl Harbor and learn about its history, hike to the top of Diamond Head for panoramic views, relax on the beautiful beaches like Waikiki or Lanikai, explore the cultural sites at Polynesian Cultural Center, go snorkeling or scuba diving in Hanauma Bay, or take a scenic drive along the North Shore.
Don't forget to try some delicious local cuisine and attend a luau for a taste of Hawaiian culture. Oahu offers a great mix of history, nature, and adventure for visitors to enjoy.
Also known as the "Koko Head Stairs," this abandoned WWII railway track is a steep and challenging hiking trail with over 1,000 steps (but worth it for the panoramic views).
Makapuu Lighthouse Trail is one of Oahu's most popular coastal hiking trails on its southeastern coast, offering spectacular views of the Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline. You'll get to see landmarks like Koko Crater, Makapuu Beach, and even the offshore islands Molokai and Lanai on a clear day. There's also the iconic red Makapuu Lighthouse built in 1909 which you can see along the way. Bring a pair of binoculars to spot seabirds and migrating humpback whales from November to May.
This uphill trail is about two miles long and is well-paved throughout, making it a manageable trek for families with children.
Located on the southeast end of Kailua Beach, this pristine shoreline on Oahu's Windward side is popular for water sports and scenic strolls.
Also known as Kaʻōhao Beach, Lanikai Beach is widely regarded as one of the best beaches in the world, and is famous for its stunning views of the Mokulua Islands. Book a kayak tour for a chance to see the green sea turtles that inhabit the 'The Mokes'. The beach is also a popular spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing, thanks to consistent and steady winds.
Enjoy the beautiful colors of the sky as the sun rises and sets over the Pacific Ocean and admire the beautiful houses and gardens of the surrounding residential area of Kailu. Come prepared as there are no amenities at this beach.
#1 Golf Course on Oahu
Designed by Arnold Palmer and Ed Seay, this course was rated one of Golf Magazine’s “Top 10 New Courses” in America and ranked 4th among Golf Digest’s “Best New Resort Courses in America” when it opened in 1992. Today, the Palmer Course is consecutively ranked the #1 Public Access Golf Course on Oʻahu. It features two very distinct experiences.
The front nine will challenge golfers with a Scottish Links style layout, while the back nine has a more tropical setting as it winds through verdant landscapes. The course forms a horseshoe around the Punahoʻolapa marsh, an unspoiled 100-acre wetland and bird sanctuary. Water comes into play on 14 of the Palmer holes. The signature 17th hole offers panoramic ocean views from the green while the hole is dotted with nine bunkers, which makes it as challenging as it is scenic.
This par 72 course measures 6,225 yards from the resort tees. When played from the Palmer (black) tees, this 7,218-yard seaside course presents a stiff challenge to even the best players. Sand traps are plentiful, with more than 70 menacing the fairways and protecting the greens. However, there are five sets of tees on each hole that provide an enjoyable experience for golfers of any ability.