Hawaii Series - 5 Oahu Must Visit Attractions
Written By Lori Stephens
5 Must Visit Oahu Attractions
Are you ready to book your next Oahu vacation? Never visited Hawaii and you are looking for fun things to do? Well, it’s time you start examining Oahu attractions. Of course, you can do so once you arrive on the island, but there are a number of benefits to familiarizing yourself with your vacation activities before you book, or leave, for your trip.
As previously stated, there are a number of benefits to familiarizing yourself with available vacation activities and attractions before you leave for your trip. One of those benefits is creating a budget for yourself. Some Oahu attractions require the payment of a small admission fee. Determining this and other information, such as hours, ahead of time, can help to make your trip more enjoyable.
U.S.S. Arizona Memorial - Pearl Harbor
1 - Pearl Harbor
Pearl Harbor is a National Historic Landmark. In fact, is it currently the only naval base that has been designed as one in the United States. The attack on Pearl Harbor, on December 7, 1941, forever changed America. Whether you are looking to see the site for yourself, pay tribute to those who lost their lives, or do both, this is a must see attraction for you.
While visiting Pearl Harbor, you can take a guided tour through the Battleship Mississippi Memorial, Visit the USS Okalahoma Memorial, as well as the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum and Park.
Oahu’s Beautiful North Shore
2 - The North Shore of Oahu
Are you an avid surfer or just a fan of the sport? If you are then the North Shore of Oahu is a must visit for you. Did you know that many travel websites claim that the North Shore of Oahu is home to some of the best surfing conditions in the world? Experienced surfers flock to the shores of local beaches and you may even be able to watch professional surfers!
In addition to surfing, there is so much more that the North Shore of Oahu has to offer. Swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, and other beach related activities are enjoyed by individuals of all ages.
Oahu’s Diamond Head Monument - Waikiki
3 - Diamond Head State Monument
The Diamond Head moment, which can be found in Waikiki, is one of Hawaiiís most well-known landmarks. According to Hawaiiís Official Tourism Site, the name came from the British who believed they found valuable diamonds in the crater. As it turns out, they were mistaken.
As popular as the Diamond Head State Monument is, this Oahu attraction isn’t right for everyone. A significant hike is required to get to the crater. This hike is perfect for those looking for adventure. The walk includes almost two hundred steps and mysterious underground tunnels.
Hanauna Bay Nature Preserve - Southern Oahu
4 - Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
The Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, located in southern Oahu, is a must visit for all swimmers. It is known as the perfect destination for snorkeling. The bay is home to colorful tropical fish, coral reefs, and clear water.
While some children and teenagers are able to snorkel, as it is a relatively easy activity for strong swimmers, caution is advised. Due to the area earning status of a nature preserve, all visitors are urged to be cautious in and around the water to help keep the area as natural and as beautiful as ever.
lolani Palace. Photograph by Joseph Philipson.
5 - The Iolani Palace
Iolani Palace is classified as an official residence of royalty. In fact, it is the only one of its kind in the United States. This, alone, makes the Iolani Palace a national treasure and a must visit. At one point in time, it was considered the political forefront and home of Hawaii.
The Iolani Palace is located in Honolulu. When visiting the Iolani Palace, there is so much for you to do and see. Depending on the day of your visit, you can shop the Palace shop, listen to band concerts, or take a guided tour.
The Iolani Palace, the Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, the North Shore of Oahu, Pearl Harbor, and the Diamond Head State Monument are just a few of the many great attractions you should visit.
Let one of our Hawaii specialists get you to these amazing destinations in the beautiful State of Hawaii!
Lori Stephens - Owner & Travel Advisor
Lori Stephens:
Lori is a lover of all things travel and has been involved in the travel industry since 1998. After helping Sojourners as a travel advisor for years, Lori opened her own agency in 2021 so that she could still create a community of like-minded travel lovers that also helps others find their passion and dream in a new and exciting career.
Yes, she still sells travel! She LOVES helping her clients make memories! But she also loves helping her team learn, grow, and change their lives by serving others through travel.
Lori is a wife to an amazing man (our IT guy) and is the mother to 6 brilliant and beautiful children.