People often ask me what the best sights to see in Oahu are. While there are many great places to see on the island, these are my personal favorites.
Oahu is a beautiful island in Hawaii that is perfect for a relaxing vacation. The island is home to some of the most stunning beaches in the world, as well as a variety of activities and attractions. Whether you’re looking to spend your days lounging on the beach, hiking through the jungle, or exploring the island’s culture, Oahu has something for everyone.
If you’re looking for a truly relaxing vacation, Oahu’s beaches are the perfect place to start. With over 120 miles of coastline, the island boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. From the world-famous Waikiki Beach to the secluded Lanikai Beach, you’ll find plenty of places to relax in the sun.
When it comes to tourist destinations, few places can compare to the beauty and excitement of Oahu. Situated in the heart of the Hawaiian Islands, Oahu is home to some of the most stunning beaches in the world, as well as a vibrant nightlife and culture. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation or an action-packed adventure, Oahu has something to offer everyone. Here are just a few of the many reasons why Oahu is such a popular tourist destination.
The Beaches
One of the biggest draws to Oahu are the incredible beaches. With over 120 miles of coastline, there’s no shortage of beach activities to enjoy. From world-famous Waikiki Beach to the secluded Lanikai Beach, Oahu has it all. Whether you’re looking to surf, sunbathe, or simply take in the incredible views, the beaches of Oahu are sure to impress.
The Culture
In addition to its natural beauty, Oahu is also home to a rich culture. From the historic sites of Pearl Harbor to the modern metropolis of Honolulu, Oahu offers a unique blend of history and contemporary culture. Visitors can experience the traditional Hawaiian lifestyle at places like the Polynesian Cultural Center, or enjoy the island’s nightlife and dining scene in Waikiki. No matter what you’re interested in, you’re sure to find it on Oahu.
The Adventure
In addition to its beaches and culture, Oahu is also a mecca for outdoor adventure. From hiking to biking to stand-up paddle boarding, there’s no shortage of ways to get your heart pumping on Oahu. And with so many different activities to choose from, you’re sure to find an adventure that’s perfect for you.
10 Stunning Sights To See In Oahu
When most people think of Hawaii, they think of Honolulu – and for good reason. Honolulu is home to some of the most iconic sights in the state, from Waikiki Beach to Diamond Head. But Honolulu is just one part of the island of Oahu.
There’s so much more to see and do on this incredible island, and we’ve put together a list of some of the best sights to see in Oahu, whether you’re looking for beaches, hiking trails, or something a little off-the-beaten-path. Here are some stunning places to visit in Oahu:
Waikiki Beach
At the first spot of 10 stunning sights to see in Oahu is the Waikiki beach.
One of the most iconic and beautiful beaches in the world, Waikiki Beach is a must-see for any traveler to Honolulu. With its gentle waves, sandy shores, and stunning views, it’s no wonder this beach is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Hawaii.
Whether you’re looking to relax and soak up the Hawaiian sun, catch the waves, or take a swim, Waikiki Beach has something for everyone. And when you’re done enjoying the beach, be sure to check out the many shops, restaurants, and attractions that line the Waikiki Beachwalk.
But there’s more to Waikiki Beach than just its good looks. The beach is also home to a number of world-class surfing spots, making it a mecca for surfers from all over the world. And if you’re not a surfer, don’t worry – there are plenty of other things to do at Waikiki Beach, from sunbathing to swimming to simply taking in the stunning views.
So whether you’re looking for a beautiful beach to relax on or an action-packed surf spot, Waikiki Beach is the perfect destination for you.
Diamond Head
Diamond Head is a renowned headland located on the southern shore of the island of Oahu and its truly a worth-seeing sight. It is one of Hawaii’s most recognizable natural landmarks and a popular tourist destination. Diamond Head is also known by its Hawaiian name, “Lēʻahi”, which means “brow of the tuna”.
It was formed about 300,000 years ago by a single, explosive eruption. The crater is about 3,520 feet (1,070 m) in diameter and about 760 feet (230 m) deep. It is surrounded by cliffs that rise about 200 feet (61 m) above the crater floor.
Diamond Head is a popular destination for hikers, joggers, and picnickers. The summit trail is a moderate hike that takes about an hour to complete. The trail is open from 6:00am to 6:00pm, but hours may vary depending on the time of year. It is also a popular destination for rock climbers. The cliffs surrounding the crater provide numerous routes of varying difficulty.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience, Diamond Head is the place for you!
Hanauma Bay
Hanauma Bay is a world-famous snorkeling destination on the island of Oahu, Hawaii. The bay is a Marine Life Conservation District and home to a wide variety of tropical fish, coral, and other marine life. Visitors can enjoy the bay’s clear waters and scenic views from the comfort of the beach or by taking a glass-bottom boat tour.
It was formed over millions of years by the erosion of volcanic rocks. The bay is part of the Hawaii Kai area, which was once home to a thriving native Hawaiian settlement. Today, the bay is a popular recreation spot for locals and tourists alike.
The best time to visit Hanauma Bay is during the summer months when the water is warm and the fish are active. However, the bay is open year-round and offers something for everyone, whether you’re looking to relax on the beach or get up close and personal with the amazing marine life.
Lanikai Beach
Lanikai Beach is one of the most beautiful beach sights to see in Oahu. It is located on the windward side of Oahu, just north of Kailua town. The name Lanikai means “heavenly sea” in Hawaiian, and it truly is a paradise on earth.
The water is crystal clear and the sand is white and powdery. There are plenty of activities to keep you busy, such as swimming, sunbathing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. Lanikai Beach is also a great place to watch the sunset.
If you’re looking for a place to stay while visiting Lanikai Beach, there are many vacation rentals available. There are also several restaurants and cafes located near the beach.
Koko Head
Koko Head is one of the most popular hiking trails on Oahu that is worth seeing. The trail is located in the Koko Head Regional Park, which is just a short drive from Honolulu. The trailhead is located at the end of Koko Drive, which is off Kalanianaole Highway.
The Koko Head trail is a moderate to difficult hike, with an elevation gain of over 1,000 feet. The trail is about 3 miles long and takes most hikers about 3 hours to complete. The trail is very popular and can be very crowded on weekends.
The hike to the top of Koko Head is very rewarding, with stunning views of the east shore of Oahu. From the top of Koko Head, you can see all the way to the North Shore. On a clear day, you might even be able to see the Big Island of Hawaii.
If you’re looking for a challenge, and want to experience some of the best views on Oahu, then be sure to add Koko Head to your list of hikes to do!
Manoa Falls
Manoa Falls is a beautiful waterfall located in the Manoa Valley on the island of Oahu. The falls are accessible via a short hiking trail and are a popular spot for swimming and picnicking. The Manoa Falls trail is located just outside of Honolulu and is a popular hiking destination for both locals and visitors. The trail is short but can be slippery in places.
The falls are located about halfway up the trail and are best seen after heavy rain. The falls are about 80 feet tall and are fed by a small stream that flows from the Manoa Valley. The pool at the base of the falls is a popular spot for swimming and relaxing.
The best time to visit Manoa Falls is after heavy rain when the waterfall is at its fullest. But even if you don’t catch the falls at their peak, they’re still an impressive sight.
If you’re planning on hiking to Manoa Falls, be sure to wear proper footwear and bring plenty of water. The trail can be crowded on weekends, so be prepared for a bit of a wait. We highly recommend taking full advantage of this amazing sight to see in Oahu.
Kailua Beach
Kailua Beach is one of the most popular beaches and beautiful places to visit on the island of Oahu. It is located on the windward side of the island and is known for its white sand beaches and beautiful turquoise waters. The beach is also a popular spot for stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking, and swimming.
Kailua Beach is situated on the east side of Oahu and is about a 30-minute drive from Honolulu. The beach is about two miles long and is divided into two sections: Kailua Bay and Lanikai Beach. Kailua Bay is the larger of the two sections and is popular for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. Lanikai Beach is a smaller section of the beach and is known for its clear turquoise waters and white sand beaches.
Kailua Beach is a great place to spend the day swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. There are also plenty of activities for the whole family to enjoy such as body boarding, kayaking, and stand-up paddle boarding. If you are looking for a place to stay in Kailua, there are many vacation rental homes and condos available. There are also several hotels in the area.
Whether you are looking for a place to relax or an adventurous vacation, Kailua Beach is the perfect spot for you!
NuuanuPali Lookout
When it comes to breathtaking views, NuuanuPali Lookout is definitely one of Oahu’s best kept secrets. Nestled in the lush, green Nuuanu Valley, this lookout provides visitors with an incredible panoramic view of the Windward Coast.
On a clear day, you can even see Molokai and Lana’i in the distance. The NuuanuPali Lookout is also steeped in history. In 1795, King Kamehameha I fought and won the Battle of Nuuanu against Kalanikupule, which helped him unite the Hawaiian Islands.
If you are planning a visit to the NuuanuPali Lookout, there are a few things you should know. First, the lookout is only open during daylight hours. Second, the trail to the lookout is steep and strenuous. Third, the lookout is located in a remote area, so it is important to be prepared for a long hike.
When you are planning your visit to the NuuanuPali Lookout, be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks. Also, be sure to wear sturdy shoes and clothing. The hike to the lookout is challenging, so be sure to be prepared.
Despite all, the lookout is a popular spot for picnics, sightseeing, and even weddings. If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience on Oahu, be sure to add NuuanuPali Lookout to your list!
Lolani Palace
Lolani Palace was the official residence of the Hawaiian monarchy from 1845 until 1893 when the monarchy was overthrown by a group of American businessmen. The palace is located in downtown Honolulu, on the island of Oahu.
It is now a museum and is open to the public for tours. Iolani Palace was built by King Kamehameha III, who ruled Hawaii from 1825 to 1854. It was the first Western-style palace in the Pacific Islands and was inspired by the palaces of Europe. The palace was built with Hawaiian materials, including wood from native trees and stone from the volcanic mountains of Hawaii.
The palace was the home of the Hawaiian monarchy for nearly 50 years. It was the scene of many important events in Hawaiian history, including the signing of the Hawaiian Constitution in 1864. In 1887, Queen Liliuokalani was overthrown in a coup d’etat by a group of American businessmen. The palace was then used as the headquarters of the Provisional Government of Hawaii, which was established after the overthrow of the monarchy.
In 1990, the palace was returned to the Hawaiian people and is now a National Historic Landmark. It is open to the public for tours and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Hawaii.
If you ever visit Oahu, this is a must-see sight for you.
Pearl Harbor
Located on the island of Oahu in the Hawaiian Islands, Pearl Harbor is one of the most strategically important naval bases in the world. The harbor is home to the U.S. Pacific Fleet, and it was from here that the United States launched its counterattack against the Japanese in the Pacific Theater of World War II.
Today, Pearl Harbor is a national monument and a popular tourist destination. Visitors can tour the USS Arizona Memorial, which commemorates the more than 1,000 sailors and Marines who lost their lives in the attack on Pearl Harbor. The memorial is built over the sunken hull of the USS Arizona, and it is one of the most sacred sites in the United States.
The Pearl Harbor National Memorial is open every day of the year from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm. Admission is free.
Wrap up
There are so many sights to see in Oahu, and this is just a small sampling of the many great places to visit on this amazing island. So whether you’re looking for an adventure, some relaxation, or just a chance to see some of the most beautiful scenery in the world, Oahu is the perfect destination for you.
I’m James Brad, the founder of Travare. I’m a traveler and lover of all things travel. I started Travare because I wanted to share my passion for travel with the world.
