Oahu: Places to Visit

Oahu is home to Hawaii’s capital city of Honolulu, where you’ll also find bustling Waikiki Beach, plenty of shopping options, and some incredible restaurants with local seafood on the menu. Further afield, the North Shore is known for its huge waves for surfers. With significant historic sights, opportunities to learn about the local culture, and natural wonders, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Oahu.

Hike Diamond Head Crater

This volcanic crater just east of Waikiki Beach is part of Diamond Head State Monument. Its main hiking trail is well marked and includes concrete walkways and steep steps — locals like to conquer the summit for an outdoor workout. The distance is .8 miles each way. From the top you’ll enjoy a spectacular view of Honolulu, surrounding mountains, and the vast blue ocean.

Pay Your Respects At Pearl Harbor

Pearl Harbor National Memorial commemorates the attack on the American military on December 7, 1941, marking the United States’ entry into World War II. The USS Arizona Memorial serves as the final resting place for the more than 1,100 military service people who were aboard that ship at the start of the attack (in total, more than 2,400 soldiers, sailors and service people died that day). Pearl Harbor is a somber visit, but one well worth your time to not only honor fallen military, but also learn about a key moment in U.S. history through several multimedia exhibits.