From the famed surf shores of Waikiki, to the picturesque botanical gardens of the Waimea Valley on the North Shore, there’s plenty to get into while in Oahu. And with new routes on Southwest and Hawaiian Airlines, going from the continental U.S. to Honolulu may be easier (and more affordable) than ever. So, make plans to hit the Aloha state, then follow our guide of what to eat, see and do while on the Hawaiian island of Oahu.
Where To Eat:
Of course, foodies will say there is no better way to experience a destination than through the local cuisine. So, food should top the list with poke plates, acai bowls, kalua pork and Oahu’s local signature, loco moco, which is a hamburger patty drenched in gravy, topped with a fried egg and nestled on a bed of rice.
The Rainbow Drive-In in Honolulu is best known for their loco moco and other Hawaiian favorites like spam sandwiches. But if that sounds too heavy for day one, try the Bare Foot Beach Café for a vegan version of the loco moco.
For another Hawaiian signature, head to the Waiahole Poi Factory, which uplifts the ancestral cuisine of Hawaii. Here, the indigenous taro plant is practically used in everything (meat and fish are steamed with taro leaves while the taro corm is hand-pounded to make poi).
Do expect to find a surprisingly robust international culinary scene. From Japanese mochi to Portuguese malassada doughnuts, Hawaii’s history has grown to include various lasting cultural influences.
Local Tip:“Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck in the North Shore. I always get their garlic shrimp with a side of rice and mac salad,” says Oahu resident Victoria Rowland, who moved to the state after her wife’s military transfer. “And if you’re in the North Shore, you definitely have to get shaved ice at Matsumoto in Haleiwa.” Rowland also suggests hitting up black-owned restaurants like Aloha subs in Wahiawa and Hughley’s Southern Cuisine in Aiea.
What To See:
‘Āina is the word for land in Hawaii, but it’s also an intricate part of the culture. Just by heading outdoors you’re exploring some of the island’s best features while gaining a deeper understanding for lay of the land.
Waimea Valley is a stunning portrayal of both land and history. While exploring native plants, you can see reconstructions of ancient Hawaiian homesteads and religious sites. The trail culminates in the Wailele waterfall, where guests are allowed to jump into the falls.
Diamond Head Summit is another popular outing. After less than a mile of paved steps up the historic mountain, hikers who reach the top are met with sweeping views of the coastline. But the famous beaches are also not to be missed. And experiencing a sunrise and sunset on a Hawaiian beach is as awe-inspiring as sunrises and sunsets can get.
Local Tip: “Try Pillbox if you are into hiking and great views,” suggests Kiki Minor, who has been living in the state since January while working on a production for Netflix. She also recommends other outdoor adventures like catamaran sailing and snorkeling.
But above all, Minor says, connecting with the people has been her favorite activity. “First off, the Aloha lifestyle is a real thing here. People are friendly and laid-back. As an African-American woman, I’m received as a person; my color has not entered into anything. Hawaiians treat everyone like a friend or a family member.”
What To Do:
For first-time visitors, luaus are usually the prerequisite. But for a deep dive into the roots of Hawaiian culture, the Bishop Museum is another great place to start. Learn everything from the ancient Polynesian seafarer practices in their planetarium, to the inner workings of ancient Hawaiian society in the Hawaiian Hall. As one of the most convenient ways to explore the culture, many Oahu properties, such as the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa, Royal Hawaiian and Kahala Hotel and Resort have cultural centers and programming, which could include hula lessons, exhibits on Hawaiian royalty and more.
Whether quirky like the Spam Jam Festival, lowkey like the Hakipu‘u Canoe Festival, a huge attraction like the Vans Triple Crown or anything in between, any opportunity to attend a festival or community gathering shouldn’t be missed (check the CVB’s calendar of events page). But, even a simple day on the beach is a win. Go to Waikiki to soak up the world-famous surf culture or head to the Kualoa Regional Park for a more chill, easygoing scene.
Local Tip: “If you’re coming to Hawaii, this is the birthplace of surfing so why wouldn’t you at least try it?” says Nique Miller, a professional surfer who has called the island home since 2007. “When you visit, please don’t just go to the mall.” In addition, Miller reminds tourists to respectfully explore the island, noting the problem with increased pollution and the state’s recent ban on certain sunscreens.