There are many fun things to do on Oahu, from exploring the island’s beautiful beaches and to its rich culture and history. One of the best places to visit on Oahu, Hawaii, is to take a helicopter tour of the island! This is a great way to see the island’s best waterfalls, craters, and rocky cliffs from the sky.

Looking to fill your itinerary with exciting activities during your visit to Oahu, Hawaii? You’re in luck! This vibrant island offers a plethora of attractions and experiences to suit every traveler’s taste. Whether you’re craving outdoor adventures, cultural immersion, or simply some fun in the sun, Oahu has it all.

Embark on a scenic hike along the lush trails of Manoa Falls, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of cascading waterfalls and verdant landscapes. For a dose of history and culture, pay a visit to the iconic Pearl Harbor, where you can explore museums, memorials, and historic sites commemorating the events of World War II.

No trip to Oahu would be complete without a visit to the bustling capital city of Honolulu. Explore the vibrant streets of Waikiki, where you can shop for souvenirs, dine at delicious restaurants, and catch a mesmerizing sunset along the iconic shoreline.

From surfing lessons to sunset cruises, the possibilities for adventure are endless on this enchanting island. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping activities or laid-back relaxation, Oahu, Hawaii, offers an abundance of things to do and see. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in paradise.

Things to Do on Oahu, Hawaii

Jumping off the Rock at Waimea Bay

The cliffs of Oahu aren’t just for surfing; they’re also home to some of the best cliff-jumping locations in Hawaii. From unassuming 5-foot jumps to terrifying 70-foot leaps, these cliff-jumping spots have something for everyone.

Waimea Bay, located on Oahu’s North Shore, is a beautiful spot that boasts breathtaking views of the water and a huge rock jutting out into it. In the summer, this cliff is one of the most popular places for people to go cliff jumping in Oahu. However, in winter, jumping off the cliff is not recommended because the waves can be huge and extremely dangerous.

During the summer, the waves are calm and perfect for cliff jumping. It’s also a great place to watch professional surfers compete in the world-famous Waimea Bay surfing competition.

Aside from cliff jumping, Waimea Bay is also a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling. The clear and calm waters in the summer make it easy to spot fish and other sea creatures.

Another popular cliff jump spot in Oahu is Spitting Cave, which is located in Portlock. This cliff is about 75–80 feet high, and the water depth changes depending on the season. The cave is so large that the water can spit out with tremendous force on days that have rough conditions in the ocean.

In addition to the cliff-jumping spots mentioned above, there are plenty of other places in Hawaii that offer an incredible cliff-jumping experience. Some of these locations are less well-known and offer an incredible adventure in the Hawaiian wilderness. These cliff jumps are an adventure you won’t soon forget, and they’re a must-try while visiting Oahu.

Makapu’u Lighthouse Hike

The Makapu’u Lighthouse Hike is an easy, moderate hike that offers incredible views of the east shore of Oahu. It is located within Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline Park and is a popular attraction for locals and visitors alike.

This paved trail is perfect for families with children and older people looking to get some exercise on their Hawaii vacation. It starts off in a quiet residential area but quickly leads to breathtaking ocean views and some amazing lookouts along the way.

You’ll get to see some great snorkeling opportunities as well as the beautiful beaches of Koko Head, Makapu’u Beach, and Rabbit Island. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some Hawaiian green sea turtles swimming in the ocean!

There are also a lot of interesting points to look out for, including old military pillboxes and giant tide pools. At the end of the trail, you’ll see the historic lighthouse landmark, which is one of the top things to do on Oahu.

A short walk from the parking lot, the Makapu’u Lighthouse is an easy and rewarding destination that most people can enjoy. This is a popular family hike that can be accessed via car or shuttle.

On a clear day, you’ll be able to see the entire coastline of Oahu and catch views of the rugged Kaiwi Channel and the surrounding islands. You can also expect to spot humpback whales and great frigate birds, which are very common here between November and April.

The best time to visit the lighthouse is around sunrise or sunset. The path’s parking lot is open from 7 a.m. to 6:45 p.m.

Halona Blowhole

One of the best things to do on Oahu, Hawaii, is to visit the Halona Blowhole, an awesome natural wonder. This beach cave and opening were formed thousands of years ago by molten lava tubes. Today, waves crash into this rocky shelf and shoot water and air through the hole at the top of the lava tube.

The water spouts up into the air 30 feet high, which is a pretty impressive sight! But be careful when looking at the blowhole; it can be dangerous to get too close. Careless tourists have been sucked into the blowhole and even died, so always look away from the edge of the sea cliffs when you see the water coming out of the blowhole!

You can visit this spot off Kalanianaole Highway between Halona Beach Cove and Sandy Beach Park in Honolulu County. There is a designated parking area where you can park your car and view the blowhole.

This site is also known for its beauty and is a great place to take some amazing photos of the ocean. It is also a great way to see green sea turtles, spotted eagle rays, octopus, and more.

There are also a lot of fish here, including eels and crabs. You can snorkel here, but you have to be very cautious around the fish. The fish can be very aggressive and can bite you if you are not careful.

This is a must-see stop for anyone visiting Hanauma Bay, so make sure to get here before the crowds get there! There is limited parking, so it might be a bit of a wait to get in, but it is well worth it.

Kualoa Ranch

One of the most popular tourist attractions on Oahu, Hawaii, Kualoa Ranch is a breathtaking 4,000-acre private nature preserve. The property has been a filming location for dozens of Hollywood movies, including Jumanji, Kong: Skull Island, Jurassic Park, Pearl Harbor, and Godzilla.

The ranch offers a variety of tours and adventures that are sure to please everyone, from families with small children to thrill seekers. Tour options include ATV rides, narrated movie site tours, a real-thrill zip line, and kayak tours on a private beach.

For an even more adventurous experience, consider the Jungle Expedition Tour, which is a 1-hour ride on an all-terrain vehicle that takes you into the jungle trails of Kualoa Ranch. The ride is bumpy but fun and will open up a beautiful view of the ocean and islands.

Another great option is the Hollywood Movie Sites Tour, which visits some of the best hotspots from films filmed at Kualoa Ranch. The tour includes stops at iconic spots from hits like Jumanji, Kong: Skull Islands, Jurassic Park, Pearl Harbor, Godzilla, and 50 First Dates.

If you’re looking for a full day of adventure, I recommend booking a combination of tours that will take you to both the ranch and other highlights on Oahu. The tours range from 1 to 2.5 hours and can be purchased online.

The best time to book these tours is about 2–3 weeks in advance, especially during the summer and holiday periods. The tours are extremely popular and often sell out, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead.

Hanauma Bay Hike

If you’re looking for a hike that will offer you both breathtaking views and adventure, the Hanauma Bay Hike is a great choice. This popular thing to do on Oahu, Hawaii, hike is easy to get to and offers stunning panoramic views of the area.

The Hanauma Bay Ridge Trail is a popular and scenic option for families and people of all ages to enjoy. It’s not too long of a walk, and there are plenty of spots to stop along the way to take in the sights.

There are also some cool rock formations to explore if you want to take your time and soak in the scenery. The cliffs can be rocky and slippery, so it’s best to use caution at all times.

This hike can be a bit challenging, but it’s worth the effort if you’re looking for something exciting and unique to do on Oahu. You can do this hike by yourself, or you can join a tour group to experience it with an experienced guide who can point out the best spots.

If you don’t have a lot of time on your hands, you can do this hike as part of an afternoon tour that includes other awesome stops in the Hanauma Bay area. This hike is a popular option for tourists and locals alike, so make sure to book in advance!

Another great hiking spot is Ka’ena Point. This hike is a bit more challenging than Lanikai pillboxes, but it’s still very doable for most people. It’s a 5- to 6-mile round trip, so you should expect to be finished by the time the sun sets.

The trail is a little muddy after rain, so be sure to wear shoes and bring bug spray. This hike is one of my favorite Oahu adventures. It’s a must-see for anyone visiting the island!

Conclusion on Things to Do on Oahu, Hawaii

In conclusion, Oahu, Hawaii, offers an extraordinary array of activities and experiences for visitors of all interests. From the lush trails of Manoa Falls to the historic significance of Pearl Harbor and the vibrant streets of Waikiki, this island paradise captivates with its natural beauty, cultural richness, and endless opportunities for adventure.

Whether seeking adrenaline-fueled excursions or tranquil moments of relaxation, Oahu promises an unforgettable journey for every traveler. So, pack your bags, sunscreen, and sense of wonder, and embark on a remarkable adventure in this enchanting destination.