The Best of Oahu Hawaii

Sometimes called “The Gathering Place,” Oahu certainly lives up to its name. The third largest Hawaiian island is home to the majority of Hawaii’s diverse population, a fusion of East and West cultures rooted in the values and traditions of the Native Hawaiian people. It’s this fundamental contrast between the ancient and the modern that makes discovering Oahu — from bustling city life to laid back surf towns — so enjoyable. You’ll find plenty of different options for exploring Oahu’s different regions, the island’s many activities, its eclectic restaurants and accommodations.  Continue reading our Oahu Travel Guide and start planning your vacation! For a list of all the great beaches, visit here. 

Weather – When to Visit Oahu

The best time to visit Oahu is from mid-April to early June or between September and mid-December. During these shoulder seasons, attractions are less crowded, festivals are plentiful and airfare and room rates are at their lowest. Average Temperatures are in the mid-60s to high 80s year-round, but rain showers are less prevalent from mid-June to August (Oahu’s summer season), so tourists flock to the island to take advantage of the sunnier weather. Another popular (and pricey) time to visit is between late December and early April, when surfers head to the North Shore to catch waves or watch professionals compete in various surfing events. 

What Should You Pack?

When figuring out what to pack for the beach, there are two tips to keep in mind. First, forgetting an item isn’t the end of the world. Unless you’re heading for a remote, deserted island, chances are you can find a store where you can pick up the extras. Second, don’t stress out over making a packing list when there’s a stress-free beach travel essentials list for you below:

• Sunglasses and hats offer much-needed sunscreen and flip flops are perfect for navigating hot, sandy beaches. Go pack them now so you’re not kicking yourself later.
• What about those little items that make beach visits so much more enjoyable? For a little extra comfort on your trip, make sure you pack: Lip balm, sunscreen, bug spray.
• Beach toys and goggles are a must for kids. Building sandcastles and viewing the underwater wonders are perennial favorites.
• Take a first-aid kit with you. Hopefully you’ll only have to worry about a few minor scrapes from seashells, but having your own kit handy is a good precaution.
• Beach Bag – Your beach bag will likely contain a few of the items mentioned above. For a well-rounded bag, consider tossing in sunscreen, lip balm, bug spray, first-aid kit and water-proof baggies.
• Beach Gear – No matter who’s supplying the gear, look to have the following items on hand: beach bag, beach chairs, beach towels, beach umbrella or tent, beach cart and a cooler.
• Remember: Don’t wait until you’re parched to drink. When you’re out in the heat and sun, it’s important to stay hydrated by drinking regularly. So take along a water bottle as well.

Top 5 Oahu Beaches

Lanikai Beach

Lanikai Beach is one of Hawaii’s most picturesque and famous beaches. An offshore reef keeps the water calm year-round, offering excellent swimming conditions from January to December. Less than a mile offshore are two small islands that house bird sanctuaries and those looking for an adventure can easily reach the islands by kayak. Other water sports to enjoy on the clear-blue waters include snorkeling (reef fish and sea turtles are common sights), sailing and windsurfing, while half a mile of fine white sand is the perfect setting for sunbathing.

Kailua Beach Park

Kailua Beach Park often is cited as one of Hawaii’s best beaches. With nearly three miles of light-colored sand and crystal-clear water, the park is the perfect spot to spend the day. While many enjoy playing in the gentle waves or learning how to windsurf, the 35-acre beach park also boasts a volleyball court and ample picnic areas where families can relax in the shade.

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Waimanalo Bay Beach Park

Waimanalo Bay Beach Park is one of the longest beaches on the island. The northern section of the beach is known to locals as Bellows and was once part of an air force base that is now closed. Despite rougher waters, which make it less suitable for inexperienced swimmers, the size, scenery and soft sand make Waimanalo a classic Hawaiian beach that is great for boogie boarding, fishing, sunbathing or walking along the shoreline.

Waikiki Beach

Possibly the most famous beach in all of Hawaii, Waikiki Beach has been an epicenter for tourists since the 1950s. The 2-mile stretch of white sand coast is actually divided into several sections by various hotels, but each is connected to the other by a boardwalk. The peaceful waters offer good swimming and surfing year-round, and other fun activities abound, including surfing, canoe racing, stand-up paddling, volleyball and more.

Sunset Beach

Situated on the historic North Shore of Oahu, Sunset Beach is a beautifully long expanse of beach that has enamored both locals and tourists for decades. During the summer, the blindingly blue ocean waters are calm and crystal-clear, making it the perfect destination for swimmers, snorkelers and families. But as the winter months roll in, so do the large waves, making conditions suitable only for the most experienced of surfers.

Hanauma Bay

Hanauma Bay sits inside a volcanic cone. As a result, the water is calm and protected, which makes it perfect for beginners. In fact, this bay is one of the most visited snorkeling destinations in Hawaii. Moreover, it is managed as a marine preserve, so fish and coral thrive in healthy numbers. For example, you can spot parrotfish, butterflyfish, and wrasses close to shore. In addition, the water clarity here is excellent, making every swim a rewarding one. Because of this, Hanauma Bay is often the first choice for families and new snorkelers, and it rightfully earns a place among the 10 Best Snorkeling Spots in the World.

Best Oahu Restaurants

$-Inexpensive     $$-Moderate     $$$-Pricey     $$$$-Ultra High End

$ Helena’s Hawaiian Food

At this no-frills you’ll find Hawaii’s classic soul food, which Helena’s has been serving since 1946. It’s based off native Hawaiian staple dishes and those influenced by the island’s waves of immigration up until the ‘50s. Highlights include kalua pig (smoky pulled pork, Hawaiian-style), poi (taro milled and thinned into a puddinglike consistency) and Helena’s legendary pipikaula—meaty short ribs dried and then pan-fried. Telephone: 808-845-8044 Web: Helena’s Hawaiian Food

$$ – $$$ The Pig and the Lady

The menu melds Vietnamese and Southeast Asian flavors with modern sensibilities. Go for lunch, and you must order the pho French dip—meltingly soft slices of brisket paired with a Thai basil chimichurri and bean sprouts, served with a side of pho broth for dipping. The dinner menu constantly changes, but make sure to finish off with a swirled soft serve, which often comes in funky flavors like black sesame custard and mango sorbet. Telephone: 808-585-8255 Web: The Pig and the Lady

$$ – $$$ Mahina & Sun’s

At this cheery with its midcentury-modern-meets-aloha vibe, chef Ed Kenney focuses on local, sustainable seafood, which is a surprising rarity on the island. For the best experience, order the Mahina’s Family Feast, a whole fried fish served with fixings including buttered ulu (breadfruit) and pohole (fiddlehead fern) salad, and for dessert, a tropical fruit pavlova. Telephone: 808-924-5810 Web: Mahina & Sun’s

$$$$ Senia

You can dine in the main dining room, offering a moderately-priced a la carte menu, where humble ingredients like cabbage are elevated to luxury status and bone marrow is served with beef cheek marmalade and tiny house-made Hawaiian rolls. But if you want to see the craftsmanship chefs Chris Kajioka and Anthony Rush are truly capable of, make a reservation for the chefs’ counter, facing the immaculate open kitchen, at $185 per person. Telephone: 808-200-5412 Web: Senia

$$ – $$$ Koko Head Cafe

Here you’ll find a melting pot of Asian influences. In a cozy neighborhood diner space, Koko Head Cafe pays homage to these cultures with refreshingly contemporary takes, such as a breakfast congee (rice porridge) with pork three ways, cheddar and cinnamon croutons, or miso-marinated fish served with custardy-soft scrambled eggs. Telephone: 808-732-8920 Web: Koko Head Cafe

Best Oahu Nightlife

Mai Tai Bar

Rockin’ open-air bar on top of the Ala Moana Mall – very lively and popular with the locals! Telephone: 808-947-2900 Web: Mai Tai Bar

Buho Cantina

One of Waikiki’s latest roof top restaurant & bar with great views of Waikiki action!  It’s the hip bar and lounging area that makes this spot so inviting! Telephone: 808-922-2846 Web: Buho Cantina

Bar 35

Fun vibe downtown bar with enough beers being represented to keep you busy all night.  The DJ keeps the dance floor busy! Telephone: 808-537-3535 Web: Bar 35

Lewers Lounge

Looking for an upscale bar with a beautiful Interior?  Located in the Halekulani Hotel, Lewers Lounge is a perfect setting to “lounge” and enjoy a special Mai Tai. Telephone: 808-923-2311 Web: Lewers Lounge

Gordon Biersch Brewery

Open-air bar and restaurant at the Aloha Tower Market, that comes with live music and award winning micro beer. Telephone: 808-599-4877 Web: Gordon Biersch Brewery

Best Oahu Hotels