Hawaii is special – there’s no getting around that. These lush volcanic islands (eight major) together make up the state of Hawaii. Oahu is the most popular island destination of Hawaii, and it also boasts the state’s capital, Honolulu. Oahu’s gorgeous greenery, inspiring vistas, picture-perfect waterfalls, sandy beaches, unique wildlife, perfect weather, delicious barbeque, lively atmosphere, and shopping and dining that’s worthy of talking about keep visitors coming back every year.
I was lucky enough to previously live on Oahu for a year, and this island’s charm has brought me back multiple times since. Just one visit and you’ll see why.

 

 

Getting There And Around
Most visitors to Oahu arrive via air at Honolulu International Airport. It is also possible to arrive on Oahu via an inter-island ferry or with a major cruise line.
TheBus, Hawaii’s well-connected and prompt public transportation service, runs routes all over Oahu at all hours of the day. It’s by far the most affordable way to get around the island.
If you decide to rent a car while staying on Oahu, the island’s roads and highways are clearly marked which makes it easy to find where you’re going. It is also possible to take your rental car on specific inter-island ferries.

 

Language
I’m adding a language section to Hawaii because it’s a special area of the United States – they have their own unique and beautiful language in Hawaii!
Hello – Aloha
Goodbye – Aloha
Thank You – Mahalo
Man – Kane
Woman – Wahine

 

Food
Hawaii’s distinct delicious food reflects the cuisine of its Polynesian inhabitants and flavors from the islands. Ingredients popular in Hawaiian cooking are seafood, pork, taro, pineapple, coconut, jicama, kukui (candle nut), and Polynesian arrowroot. Famous dishes from the islands are Kalua pig (pulled pork with ginger and rice), lau lau (steamed fish and pork wrapped in taro leaves), poi (taro root that is mashed up), lomi (salmon and Maui onions), crack seed, and mocha (sweet rice).
Oh yea, it’s also true – Hawaiians love Spam! You’ll find unique Spam dishes around the islands. They’re pretty good!

 

Where To Stay
Most visitors to Oahu choose to stay in the Waikiki area. This area is filled with hotels, shopping, dining, bars and beautiful beach lined with fun activities with Diamond Head as Waikiki’s beautiful backdrop. If you’re doing tours while staying on this island, many companies will pick you up from the Waikiki area for free.
Visiting Oahu for some secluded quiet time? Kailua is a beautiful area and much lower key than Waikiki. In my opinion, Kailua boasts one of this island’s best beaches. The only downfall to staying in Kailua is the distance away from many attractions located within the Waikiki area. TheBus’s coverage of Oahu is amazing, but the mountainous terrain of this island makes routes long and indirect.

 

What To Do

• Haunama Bay
  One of my favorite things to do on this island is visit Haunama Bay. This gorgeous bay is a wildlife preserve filled with wonderful surprises, and it boasts one of the nicest beaches on Oahu. It’s important to note that Haunama Bay is closed on Tuesdays, allowing the wildlife a day of peace and rest.
• Pearl Harbor Memorial and Museum
  The USS Arizona is an important part of United States history. Visit Pearl Harbor. This fascinating memorial is a must when visiting Oahu.

• Dole Plantation
  Pineapples! Dole’s large plantation is a fun stop! During a trip to the Dole Plantation you’ll learn about farming pineapples and producing consumer goods. Talk about fresh and juicy pineapples. Don’t leave without trying the pineapple ice cream. It’s so good I think about it all the time!

• Shaved Ice on the North Shore
  There is plenty of shaved ice available in Waikiki and around the island, but for some reason it is the best on the North Shore. You won’t regret the trip – there’s plenty more at the North Shore than its shaved ice stands.
• Iolani Palace
  There ARE palaces in the United States! Opening in the late 1800s, Iolani Palace was the home to the former rulers of the Kingdom of Hawaii. This beautiful Hawaiian palace is located in Honolulu.
• Honolulu Zoo
  While not one of the biggest zoos in the world, Honolulu Zoo’s jungle vibe is well maintained and features many special animals. Try to spot the rare Rainbow Eucalyptus.

• Waikiki Beach
  Waikiki is the heart of Honolulu, and its beach features soft sand, turquoise waters, and happy people. There are tons of places to shop and dine surrounding this beach. It is also a great spot to take surfing lessons or rent a snorkel.

• Lani’ Kai Beach
  This is the beach featured on countless postcards and laptop wallpapers. White sand, tall palm trees, and minimal people – Lani’ Kai is like stepping into a dream.
• Kailua Beach Park
  Kailua’s clear waters, fine sand, free facilities, and easy accessibility make this a nice change from the super-touristy beaches. You’re likely to meet more locals at Kailua Beach Park than travelers.

• Sky Dive
  Oahu has some of the most breath-taking views on the planet. Why not see this gorgeous place from above? There’s no better place to skydive than in Hawaii. Check the brochures in your hotel or hostel for possible coupons.
• Mokoli’i (Chinaman’s Hat)
  This small basalt island is located in Kane’ohe Bay and resembles a straw hat. It’s a great place for aspiring photographers to check out.
• Drive the Pali Highway
  Oahu’s windy road cuts into through and into the side of a mountain. It’s one of the most picturesque and fun rides in the world.

 

Stay Fit

• Learn To Surf
  Don’t be like me and wait to learn this fun sport! After I finally tried surfing, I became addicted. It’s really exhilarating to be under the sun on a board catching waves surrounded by a gorgeous setting.

• Hike Diamond Head
  An icon of the island, this volcanic tuff cone is a state park and features developed hiking paths. Some incredible views of the island can be seen from the top!
• Manoa Falls
  Approximately a two km (1.5mi) hike from the nearest road, Manoa Falls is one of Oahu’s often-missed wonders. It’s nearest to Manoa.
• Stairway to Heaven (Haiku Stairs)
  Located in the Ko’olau mountain range, the Stairway to Heaven is nearly 4,000 stairs of treacherous hiking. Technically, it’s forbidden – be extra careful if you attempt.

 

Shopping

• Kalakaua Avenue
  Waikiki’s long main road that lines the beach is filled with tons of designer, local, and discount stores. It’s a great place to start when shopping on Oahu.

• Ala Moana Center
  Honolulu’s big mall, the Ala Moana Center, is a place to get lost in. Seriously, I’ve gotten lost there. Inside, there are endless options for shopping.
• Aloha Tower
  Located in downtown Honolulu, the Aloha tower is a smaller shopping center that features mostly local products from local vendors.
• Aloha Stadium Swap Meet
  Located inside Oahu’s massive football stadium, this swap meet is a great place for unique finds. It’s only open three days a week, so make sure to check before you go!