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Oahu Travel Mini-Guide: Best Activities, Places to Stay & Transport Tips
- Alyssa
- May 17, 2024
- 15 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
Oahu, known as “The Gathering Place,” is the most visited of all the Hawaiian Islands, welcoming nearly 6 million visitors each year. It’s home to Hawaii’s capital city, Honolulu, and offers a perfect mix of city energy and island paradise. From world-famous beaches and crystal-clear waters to fresh tropical fruit and locally caught seafood, Oahu delivers something for every traveler. History buffs can explore sites like Pearl Harbor, while adventure seekers can try unique experiences like underwater scooters or surf lessons in Waikiki. In this mini travel guide, we’ll cover the best activities in Oahu, where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around so you can plan a trip that’s truly worth your wallet.
Where to stay:
Where you stay on Oahu depends on your travel style and what you want to prioritize. If your trip is centered around tours, shopping, dining, and relaxing on Waikiki Beach, then staying in or near Waikiki or downtown Honolulu is the most convenient option. This area has the highest concentration of hotels, restaurants, and transportation options, and most major tours offer pickup service from here.
If you’re dreaming of peaceful mornings and quiet, uncrowded beaches, then the North Shore might be more your style. It’s a slower pace and more remote, but ideal for travelers who want a break from the city.
For first-time visitors, we recommend booking a hotel near Waikiki or Ala Moana. We love staying in Waikiki because everything is within walking distance: the beach, restaurants, shopping, and public transit. We’ve stayed at the Hilton Hawaiian Village, the DoubleTree by Hilton Alana – Waikiki Beach, and the Hilton Garden Inn Waikiki Beach. While all three offer great locations, the Hilton Hawaiian Village has the most resort-style amenities, the DoubleTree is a quieter option slightly back from the beach, and the Hilton Garden Inn stood out to us for being more affordable while still offering clean, comfortable rooms and lots of nearby food and shopping options.
Hilton Hawaiian Village:
The Hilton Hawaiian Village is one of the largest and most well-known resorts on Waikiki Beach. It features multiple pools, shops, restaurants, and direct beach access—all within a sprawling resort layout. That said, extra fees can add up quickly. Expect to pay upwards of $80 per night for parking, plus a $50 nightly resort fee. While these costs are common in the area, it’s something to factor into your budget. The resort is made up of several towers, and room quality can vary. The Ali’i Tower offers a more luxurious and private experience, with upgraded amenities and its dedicated check-in area. In contrast, the Diamond Head Tower felt a bit outdated and didn’t match the price point, in our opinion. The hotel can get busy, especially during peak season, so be prepared for lines at check-in. Fortunately, the staff was consistently friendly and helpful during our stay. Would we stay again? Yes—but we’d recommend booking a room in the Ali’i Tower if your budget allows.
Doubletree by Hilton Alana - Waikiki Beach:
The DoubleTree by Hilton Alana – Waikiki Beach is located just a short walk from both Waikiki Beach and the Hilton Hawaiian Village. While it’s conveniently close to restaurants and convenience stores, it’s not directly on the beach and doesn’t offer the same level of resort-style amenities.
During our visit (June 2023), the hotel was undergoing construction, and the pool was closed, which impacted the overall experience. While it’s occasionally priced slightly below the Hilton Hawaiian Village, it still charges a $35 nightly resort fee and $50 per night for parking, without offering much in return beyond a standard hotel stay.
In our opinion, the value here didn’t quite match the cost. Unless you find a good deal or simply need a place close to Waikiki with Hilton points or loyalty perks, we’d recommend comparing prices with more full-service properties nearby.
Hilton Garden Inn Waikiki Beach
This hotel was a pleasant surprise — more cost-effective but with rooms just as nice as the upgraded ones at the Hilton resorts. It's located across from a Target and just a 5-minute walk to Waikiki Beach. The room was clean and well-equipped, though the patio furniture was worn and the shower had drainage issues. Amenities include a pool, bar, gym, yoga, discounts at local restaurants, and complimentary beach gear through Beach Candy. Parking is $50 per night, and the resort fee is lower than the other properties. Overall, a great balance of comfort, convenience, and value.
Full reviews for each of these hotels are coming soon!
Getting to Downtown Honolulu/Waikiki:
Getting from Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) to downtown Honolulu or Waikiki is quick and easy—it’s only about a 9-mile drive and typically takes 15–25 minutes, depending on traffic.
Transportation Options from HNL:
Ride Share (Uber/Lyft):
Uber and Lyft are readily available, though prices vary based on time and demand.
A ride to Waikiki for 2 people typically costs $25–$45.
For groups of 4+, we’ve paid $90–$125 due to needing larger vehicles and surge pricing.
Taxi:
Taxis can be more or less expensive than ridesharing, depending on the time of day.
Expect rates between $35–$55. Some companies offer flat rates from the airport to Waikiki—always ask beforehand.
Airport Shuttles:
SpeediShuttle and other companies offer shared-ride vans for around $20 per person.
In our experience, this option was less convenient due to disorganized pickup, delays, and multiple stops.
We recommend Uber or a taxi over shuttle vans unless traveling solo on a tight budget.
Public Transportation (TheBus):
Honolulu’s public bus system is affordable and reliable.
Route 20 or 303 goes from HNL to downtown Honolulu, Ala Moana Center, and Waikiki.
Fare is $3 per ride (cash only) unless using a HOLO card.
Kids under 5 ride free with a paying adult.
Rental Cars & Turo:
Traditional rental cars are convenient for exploring the island, but prices add up:
A weeklong compact car rental can cost $750+ with insurance
Hotel parking averages $50–$80/night
Turo (peer-to-peer rental app) may offer better rates—shop around to compare.
Getting to The North Shore:
Visiting the North Shore of Oahu is worth it, but getting there requires a bit more planning compared to staying around Waikiki or Honolulu.
Best Transportation Options:
Rental Car – Most Reliable
The easiest and most flexible way to visit the North Shore is by renting a car. It's about a 1–1.5 hour drive from Honolulu, depending on traffic, and having your vehicle allows you to explore multiple stops along the way (like Dole Plantation or Haleʻiwa Town).
You can rent through a traditional car company like Hertz or Enterprise, or try Turo, a peer-to-peer car rental app. We’ve used Turo and had great experiences—it’s often more affordable than major rental brands, especially if you're booking last minute.
Ride Share / Taxi – One Way Only
While Uber and taxis can get you to the North Shore from the airport or Waikiki, getting a ride back can be difficult due to limited driver availability in that area. If you plan to take a rideshare there, confirm in advance if a return ride will be possible, or plan to stay overnight.
Activities to Do in Oahu:
If you want to see a full list of things we have done and experienced in Hawaii, check out our 10 Things To Do In Oahu post!
Visit Pearl Harbor:
Pearl Harbor is one of the top activities to do in Oahu, attracting up to 4,000 visitors daily. The memorial site offers a powerful look into the events of the attack on Pearl Harbor and the U.S. entry into World War II. Managed by the National Park Service, the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center and museums are free to visit, making it a meaningful and budget-friendly stop.
USS Arizona Memorial: Tickets are free but require a $1 reservation fee per person. A limited number of standby tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Ford Island Bus Tour: The only way to access the USS Oklahoma and USS Utah Memorials is via this tour. The sites are located on an active-duty military base, and reservations are required. Tickets are also free with a $1 reservation fee.
Paid Tours: Prefer a more structured experience? Several companies offer paid guided tours of Pearl Harbor that include transportation, guides, and multiple site visits.
Snorkel Hanauma Bay:
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is one of the most popular and beautiful places to snorkel in Hawaii. The coral reef here is home to vibrant marine life, and the clear, shallow waters make it perfect for all levels.
Reservations Required: Only 1,400 guests are allowed per day, and a $25 fee per person applies. The park is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Booking Tip: Reservations open two days in advance at 7:00 AM HST and fill up fast. Click here to reserve your Hanauma Bay visit
We haven’t successfully gotten a reservation yet, so best of luck to those trying! If you do get in, you’ll be rewarded with some of the best snorkeling in Oahu!
Submarine Scooters with Island Water Sports Hawaii:
Looking for a unique ocean adventure? Try the Submarine Scooter tour by Island Water Sports Hawaii. At $180 per person, it’s a splurge, but we had an absolute blast!
You’ll ride in a personal underwater scooter with a clear dome helmet, allowing you to breathe normally and cruise alongside sea life like fish and sea turtles.
A safety diver accompanies each group, and the scooters are surprisingly easy to steer.
Seasickness Warning: This tour is not for those prone to motion sickness. We went on a choppy day and saw several people get sick—even we felt queasy! Still, if the seas are calm and you're feeling adventurous, this was one of the most memorable activities we've done on Oahu. Book your submarine scooter experience here
See Spinner dolphins in the wild:
Watching Spinner Dolphins leap and spin through the air is an unforgettable experience—and it's easy to see how they earned their name! On our trip, we chose a Spinner Dolphin boat tour with Dolphins and You, which combined dolphin watching with a snorkeling stop.
Tour cost: $189 per person (includes snorkeling gear and lunch)
Operator: Dolphins and You
Duration: Half-day tour with scenic boat ride, dolphin viewing, and a guided snorkel stop
When we took the tour in 2021, guests were allowed to enter the water with the dolphins, but the rules have since changed. To protect the animals, current tours are now observation-only—you’ll watch the dolphins from the boat and then move to a reef area for snorkeling.
We found the experience relaxing and scenic, though it’s worth noting the tour is family-friendly and geared toward kids, with music, dancing, and a fun onboard atmosphere. While it wasn’t exactly our style, dolphin lovers and families will likely have a great time. Click here to book a Spinner Dolphin tour with Dolphins and You
Parasail over the Pacific:
Parasailing in Honolulu was one of the most thrilling activities we did on Oahu, and it’s one we’d recommend. Soaring high above the Pacific Ocean with panoramic views of Waikiki Beach and the city skyline is something we’ll never forget. We booked our flights with Xtreme Parasail, which offers multiple daily departures out of Honolulu. Prices start at $67.50 per person for the 700-foot flight (note: you must book tandem with another person).
We’ve gone parasailing with Xtreme Parasail twice now, and both times were excellent. The captain and crew were fun, professional, and made the whole experience feel safe and exciting. You might get dipped in the water before the flight ends, so come prepared to get wet! Click here to book your parasailing experience in Honolulu
Take Surf Lessons in Waikiki:
Surfing is an iconic Hawaiian tradition with deep cultural roots. More than just a sport, it's a symbol of Hawaiian identity and a celebration of respect for the ocean. And there’s truly no better place to learn to surf than Waikiki Beach, where gentle waves and experienced instructors make it beginner-friendly.
We took a group surf lesson with Big Wave Dave, who offers group, semi-private, and private classes just steps from the beach. The experience was fantastic—the staff were patient, fun, and genuinely excited to help us learn. By the end of our lesson, we were both able to stand up and ride a wave, cheered on by our instructors!
Lessons start at $129 per person for a group session. The area we surfed was a bit rocky, and we did fall a lot—so expect a few scrapes if you're learning over a reef like we did. We also opted for the photo package (for an extra fee), which was worth it. We got dozens of shots of us standing, wiping out, and everything in between. Click here to book your surf lesson in Waikiki with Big Wave Dave
Explore the ocean in a submarine:
One of the most fascinating ways to explore Hawaii is 100 feet below the surface without getting wet! Atlantis Submarines offers an unforgettable underwater adventure where you’ll ride in a real submarine and view sea life through large porthole windows.
Tickets cost $148 for adults and $66 for children 12 and under. On our tour, we saw stingrays, sea turtles, reef sharks, and hundreds of tropical fish. It was a surreal way to see marine life in their natural habitat.
The interior of the sub is equipped with bench seating and wide viewing windows, ensuring everyone gets a great view. We found the staff to be incredibly knowledgeable and friendly, sharing fun facts about both the submarine and the ocean life around us. Getting on board is easy but requires a little mobility—you’ll take a shuttle boat out to the submarine, then climb down an 11-step vertical ladder to enter the vessel. As long as you're comfortable with that, the rest of the experience is smooth sailing (or submerging!). Click here to book your Atlantis Submarine adventure
Take a guided tour of the Island:
If you want to see many of Oahu’s top attractions in a single day, without renting a car, a guided island tour is one of the best ways to do it.
We booked a Circle Island Tour with Oahu Nature Tours and visited highlights like:
Halona Blowhole
Nuʻuanu Pali Lookout
Byodo-In Temple
Lunch on the North Shore
Waimea Valley Arboretum and Waterfall
Dole Plantation
Tickets cost $149 per person, and transportation was included. The upside? You cover a lot of ground and see several top Oahu landmarks in one trip. The downside? With a larger group size and tight time limits at each location, the experience can feel a bit rushed and less personal. That said, it’s an excellent option for first-time visitors looking to get a broad overview of the island. It helped us decide which areas we wanted to return to and explore more on our own. Click here to book your Oahu Circle Island Tour with Oahu Nature Tours
Nuuanu Pali Lookout (Free):
The Nuʻuanu Pali Lookout is one of the best free attractions in Oahu and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Koʻolau Mountains, lush valleys, and the Pacific Ocean. It’s also a site of major historical significance—the Battle of Nuʻuanu, where King Kamehameha I unified Oʻahu under his rule, took place here.
You'll find informational plaques around the lookout that explain the history and geography of the area, making it both a scenic and educational stop. There’s a small parking lot nearby, and it’s easy to find on Google Maps. Find Nuʻuanu Pali Lookout on Google Maps
Visit Byodo-in Temple:
A beautiful Japanese-style temple at the foot of the Ko’olau Mountains in Valley of the Temples Memorial Park. You can go inside the temple and light incense, and hit a gong for good luck outside the temple. There is a small admission fee of $5 for adults (no cash) and $2 for children 2-12. It does not take long to see the entire temple, and the recommended time to allot for a visit is 30-45 minutes. We enjoyed our visit and thought it was a unique experience on the island! You can book your tickets to the Byodo-in Temple here!
Waimea Valley Arboretum and Waterfall:
Waimea Valley Arboretum and Waterfall is a unique combination of a botanical garden, cultural center, and natural swimming spot, making it one of the most popular activities on Oahu’s North Shore. Admission is $25 per adult, $8 for seniors and students, and $6 for children ages 4–12.
The paved trail through the arboretum is about ¾ mile long, slightly uphill, and surrounded by lush tropical foliage. For those who don’t want to walk, a tram service is available for an extra $10 per person each way.
The highlight of the trail is the swimmable waterfall at the end—perfect for cooling off after your walk (when conditions allow). Lifeguards and life jackets are usually on-site for safety. Around the property, you’ll also find snack bars with light bites and refreshments.
Pro Tip: Wear water shoes if you plan to swim, and bring a towel!
Visit the Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden (FREE):
Located about 15 miles (or 45 minutes) from Waikiki, the Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden is a peaceful escape offering free admission and parking. Open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, the park is one of the best free things to do in Oahu, especially for nature lovers and photographers.
The garden features a mix of walking trails, lush hills, and a lake surrounded by tropical plants. There are multiple parking lots, restrooms, and porta-potties throughout the park, making it an easy and enjoyable half-day trip. Whether you're looking for Instagram-worthy shots, a quiet stroll, or a scenic picnic spot, this garden is a must-visit.
See the city skyline from Tantalus Lookout - Puu Ualakaa State Park (FREE):
Tantalus Lookout is one of the best free scenic viewpoints in Oahu, perfect for watching the sunset over Honolulu and Diamond Head. Located in Puu Ualakaa State Park, this elevated spot offers panoramic views of the city skyline, the Pacific Ocean, and lush green hills.
Many visitors arrive just before sunset with snacks or takeout and enjoy a picnic on the grassy hill. It's a peaceful and romantic way to end the day, especially as the city begins to glow beneath the changing sky.
There’s a small parking lot, and although the road up is a bit winding, the drive is manageable. Find the Tantalus Lookout on Google Maps here!
Have a beach day:
No trip to Hawaii is complete without a relaxing beach day. Whether you're looking to swim, snorkel, sunbathe, or just unwind, here are a few of our favorite beaches on Oahu:
Waikiki Beach – Iconic, lively, and close to shops and restaurants. Great for beginner surfers and people-watching.
Lanikai Beach – Known for its soft white sand and calm turquoise waters. Ideal for swimming and sunrise views.
Kailua Beach – Less crowded than Waikiki but still great for paddleboarding, kayaking, or a peaceful swim.
Pro Tip: Lanikai and Kailua are located near each other on the windward side of the island and make a perfect pair for a beach-hopping day!
Where to eat:
Eggs n Things
If you're looking for one of the best breakfast spots near Waikiki, Eggs 'n Things is our go-to. This local favorite serves up towering stacks of pancakes topped with fresh tropical fruit, whipped cream, and macadamia nuts—plus one of the best loco mocos we’ve had in Hawaii.
There are two locations in Waikiki, but we prefer the Saratoga Avenue location over the Eggspress one. At Saratoga, you’re seated and order at the table, whereas Eggspress is more casual (you order first, then sit down). Both serve the same delicious menu, so it comes down to the dining experience you prefer. They don’t take reservations, but you can join their online waitlist to avoid long lines: here.
Dave’s ice cream
A local and tourist favorite, Dave’s Ice Cream is a perfect stop on a hot Hawaiian day. They serve ice cream, shaved ice, and Dole Whip, with unique island flavors like lychee, haupia, and macadamia nut. This sweet shop even won Best Ice Cream Shop in Hawaii (2021)! Whether you’re craving something tropical or classic, Dave’s is a must-try in Oahu.
Zippy’s
Zippy’s is a beloved Hawaiian fast-casual chain offering comfort food and local favorites like chicken katsu, spam, chili, loco moco, and mac salad. With multiple locations across Oahu, it’s a convenient and budget-friendly way to experience Hawaiian plate lunches and late-night eats. See which Zippy’s is closest to you here!
The Signature Prime Steak & Seafood
For a special night out, head to The Signature Prime Steak & Seafood, located on the top floor of the Ala Moana Hotel. This upscale spot offers panoramic views of the city and ocean, perfect at sunset. With live music, quality service, and well-cooked steaks and fresh seafood, it’s one of the best places in Oahu to celebrate a special occasion. You can find The Signature Prime Steak and Seafood on Google Maps here!
Food trucks
Food trucks are a popular place to grab a quick bite to eat on the island, and you can find them just about everywhere. We have tried a few different ones and got some delicious food!
Ruka Bowls was one of our favorites, and we found it by chance. We were leaving the botanical garden and saw it parked on the side of the road. The acai bowls were so good!
A good spot downtown to find food trucks is the food truck park. We tried a few things here and enjoyed Trydis Barbecue.
Other advice/tips:
Bring cash for tips – It’s customary to tip tour guides, drivers, and crew members. Many places may not accept Venmo or a card.
Pack an umbrella or light rain jacket – Oahu’s weather can change quickly, and brief showers are common.
Use reef-safe sunscreen – Protect Hawaii’s coral reefs by avoiding sunscreens with oxybenzone and octinoxate.
Skip the spray sunscreen on boats – Spray sunscreen can make the deck slippery, and many tours will not allow its use onboard.
Stop by Costco or Target after landing – Groceries can be pricey on the island. Costco prices are similar to the mainland and great for bulk snacks, water, and quick meals.
Summary:
Oahu has so much to offer that you could spend a week there and still not get to experience everything! We recommend five to seven days on the island, but even that may not be enough to see everything on your list! One of our favorite things to do is visit the Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden, it is a lush park with hiking trails and amazing views. A bonus is that it is free! Some popular destinations like Pearl Harbor and Hanauma Bay are reservation-based and sell out quickly! Making reservations ahead of time, and knowing when reservation times are released can help ensure you get a spot. We hope this Oahu travel guide can help you plan a trip that is worth your wallet! Let us know below if you have any questions about planning your trip to Oahu, or with suggestions for things we should do on our next visit!
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