Welcome to our travel guide on visiting Oahu, the island home to Honolulu, its most famous city and the heart of Hawaii. We first traveled to Hawaii in 2018 and immediately fell in love with its unique charm. It’s one of our dream destinations and one of the most popular places in the world.
While Kauai and the Big Island offer their own unique beauty, Oahu remains our top favorite island, thanks to its perfect balance of natural wonders and vibrant beach life.
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Quick Peek
Fact-sheet about our Oahu Hawaii trip for our busy travelers.
Travel Time
October & April
Travel Mode
Journey (10 days)
Our Must-Sees
Where to stay
Alohilani
Plant-Based Food
Mobility
Rental car Alamo
Jeep Wrangler
Travel Budget
around €6.985 / $7,800
without air fare
Top Oahu Attractions You Can’t Miss
When visiting Hawaii’s main island, we highly recommend making a round-trip on the island of Oahu to truly experience its beauty. Driving around the island typically covers a distance of about 112 miles (180 kilometers). Without making any stops, the drive takes approximately 4 to 5 hours. During our trips, we visited several must-see spots. Here are the top attractions you can’t miss:
Waikiki Beach (Starting Point)
Waikiki Beach is one of our favorite places to be, especially in the evenings. We love walking along the beach at sunset and just soaking up the vibe – it’s hard to describe, but there’s something really special about it.
During the day, Oahu definitely has better spots to explore, but sometimes it’s nice to just chill at Waikiki Beach, especially when your hotel is so close. We’ve had a few laid-back beach days here, just relaxing and enjoying the easy access to everything nearby. It’s the perfect way to recharge before heading out for more adventures around the island.
Diamond Head (1st stop)
Diamond Head is one of Oahu’s most iconic landmarks, and hiking to the top is a must-do for any visitor. The trail is relatively short but steep, and the panoramic views from the summit are absolutely worth the effort. From the top, you get an incredible view of Waikiki, the Pacific Ocean, and the surrounding coastline.
For those into drone photography, Diamond Head offers one of the most stunning backdrops imaginable. The dramatic cliffs, the contrast between the deep blue ocean and the lush green landscape, and the sweeping views of the city make it a dream location for capturing breathtaking footage. Just be sure to check local regulations before flying your drone, as restrictions can apply in some areas.
Koko Crater (2nd Stop)
Next, travel 15 km (9 miles) to Koko Crater Head. This stop deserves a day of its own, as the region around Koko Crater, including Halona Blowhole, Hanauma Bay, and Sandy Beach, is packed with beauty and adventure. The hike up Koko Crater is a challenge, with over 1,000 steps leading you to stunning views from the top. Make sure to explore the surrounding areas as they are equally impressive.
Lanikai Beach (3rd Stop)
After enjoying Koko Crater, drive 25 km (15.5 miles) to the stunning Lanikai Beach. Known for its soft white sands and crystal-clear waters, Lanikai is one of the best beaches on Oahu. If you want to hike the famous Pillbox Trail, plan for an extra day, as it’s a fantastic hike with incredible views. Otherwise, head out early to secure a parking spot, as they fill up fast.
Kualoa Regional Park (4th Stop)
From Lanikai, head 20 km (12 miles) north to Kualoa Regional Park. This park is famous for its Jurassic World filming location, with dramatic landscapes and lush greenery. The park itself is a perfect place to stop for a picnic and take in the views of the Ko’olau Mountains and nearby Mokoli’i Island (Chinaman’s Hat). It’s a peaceful and scenic stop on your journey around Oahu.
North Shore (5th Stop)
Next, travel 40 km (25 miles) along Oahu’s scenic coastal highways to the legendary North Shore. Famous for its world-class surfing, especially in the winter months, the North Shore is a must-visit for anyone interested in watching surfers tackle some of the most massive waves on the planet. Even if you’re not a surfer, the beachside atmosphere is unmatched, with stunning beaches like Sunset Beach and Waimea Bay inviting you to relax and take in the beauty.
Haleiwa (Last stop)
A short drive from the North Shore brings you to the charming town of Haleiwa. This surf town is full of local charm and culture, offering a great place to shop, grab a bite, and experience the laid-back vibe of the North Shore. One of the town’s must-try treats is the famous Haleiwa bowl, a refreshing acai bowl packed with fruits and perfect for refueling after a day of exploring.
When you’re ready to head back to Waikiki, the drive takes about 1 hour, covering 60 km (37 miles) via the scenic H-2 Highway.
Our Favorite Hotels on Oahu Hawaii
When you start looking for hotels in Waikiki and the surrounding areas, it can be overwhelming because there are so many options. However, after a closer look, we found that only a few hotels offer good value for their price. It’s crucial to compare prices carefully when planning your stay on Oahu. We noticed that prices can vary a lot depending on the season and when you book. Also, check if meals are included, as food costs can significantly impact your budget in Hawaii.
On our first trip to Oahu, we stayed at the Alohilani Resort and absolutely loved it. The beautiful location, stunning lobby, and proximity to the beach made our stay unforgettable. Naturally, we chose it again for our second visit. But as prices have increased a lot recently, we decided to split our stay and also stayed at the Hilton Modern Honolulu Resort, located at the start of Waikiki, near the yacht club.
We highly recommend both resorts for your stay in Honolulu. The Alohilani Resort stands out not only for its beautiful lobby and closeness to the beach but also for its excellent evening events. We often enjoyed relaxing in the lounge area, listening to live music.
The Hilton Modern Honolulu Resort also provided a great experience with a few added benefits. It is slightly more affordable, making it a great option if you’re watching your budget. The parking is convenient, and the pool area is very chill, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring
Where to Find Plant-Based Meals on Oahu Hawaii
Finding plant-based meals in Honolulu, especially in Waikiki, is easier than you might think. There are several great options to satisfy your cravings. Leading the way, in our opinion, is the iconic Sunrise Shack. Originally located on the North Shore, you can also find it next to the Outrigger Resort in Waikiki. It’s the perfect spot to start your day with a delicious bowl or grab an afternoon snack.
If you need something quick, we recommend the vegan burger from Mahaloa Burger. Located in the Food Court of the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center, it’s a fantastic stop after a busy day. This place is especially convenient if you have two small children, as there’s no need to worry too much about etiquette.
Overall, it’s important to note that healthy eating on Oahu can be quite expensive. As an alternative, we recommend the Walmart near the Ala Moana Center. While the cooking facilities in hotels are often limited, you can still improvise with some snacks and easy-to-prepare items from there.
How to Travel Around Oahu Hawaii Efficiently
Of course, you can book plenty of day trips with shuttle service included, but for those who want to explore the island with a bit more privacy and flexibility, a rental car is essential. And if you’re going to rent a car in Hawaii, it has to be a Jeep Wrangler!
We had some luck and the friendly folks at Alamo gave us the freedom to choose our vehicle. We opted for a beautiful yellow Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, and it was an unforgettable experience, especially for our two kids. Driving on Oahu is absolutely hassle-free. Even in Waikiki, traffic is well-organized with many one-way streets, making it easy to navigate. You can relax and explore the island at your own pace, fully immersing yourself in the aloha vibe.
Our Oahu Hawaii Travel Budget Breakdown
Accomodation
Alohilani €2.750 / $3,070
Modern Honolulu €1.650 / $1,842
(5 nights each hotel)
Food & Dining
Around €120 / $134 per day
Total €1.200 / $1,340
Mobility
Rental car Jeep Wrangler
€97 ($108) per day
Fuel / Parking around €250 / €279
Activities
Whale Watching
€165 / $184
Total Spent
around €6.985 / $7,800
without air fare
Capture Perfect Shots at These Oahu Hawaii Locations
Oahu Hawaii is full of both famous and hidden spots perfect for capturing stunning photos. To save you time searching for these picturesque locations, we’ve compiled our top highlights in a separate blog post. This guide includes GPS coordinates and descriptions for each spot, ensuring you can easily find and enjoy the best photo opportunities on the island. Check out our detailed blog post to discover the most Instagrammable places Oahu has to offer.
Travel to Oahu Hawaii FAQs: All You Need to Know
The best time to visit Oahu is from mid-April to early June or between September and mid-December. These periods offer pleasant weather, fewer tourists, and lower hotel rates.
Driving around Oahu typically covers a distance of about 112 miles (180 kilometers) and takes approximately 4 to 5 hours without stops. Allow a full day to explore at a leisurely pace.
Parking can be challenging in busy areas like Waikiki. Many hotels charge for parking, and finding street parking can be tough. Plan accordingly and consider using hotel parking.
Yes, most beaches in Honolulu are safe for swimming. However, always pay attention to warning signs and lifeguard instructions, especially at beaches with strong currents.
US citizens do not need a visa. Visitors from other countries should check the visa requirements for entry into the United States.
Tipping is customary in Honolulu. Generally, tip 15-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per bag for bellhops, and $2-5 per day for housekeeping.
Yes, tap water in Honolulu is safe to drink and is considered some of the best in the world. The water is sourced from natural underground aquifers and is filtered through volcanic rock, making it fresh and clean. Most hotels also offer free refill stations, so you can easily fill up your reusable water bottle and stay hydrated throughout your trip without having to buy bottled water.
Hawaii has a unique culture with a strong emphasis on respect and the aloha spirit. Be polite, respect local customs, and always ask permission before entering private property.
Enjoy free activities like hiking Diamond Head, visiting beaches, exploring parks, and walking around historic downtown Honolulu. Many cultural sites and museums also offer affordable entry fees.
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