The island of Oahu, aka The Gathering Place, is the third largest of the Hawaiian Islands, and sits more or less in the middle of the Hawaiian archipelago. Being a home to about two-thirds of the population, as well as a major tourist destination, it pretty much lives up to the name. You can be a part of the gathering and enjoy various cultural attractions, cuisine and performances, or completely disregard the urban hubbub and chill in the ocean, trek inland, or just work on your tan. Here’s a list of top ten must-see places on Oahu, in no particular order. Feel free to rearrange and expand it.
‘Iolani Palace: Where Two Worlds Collide
A good place to start your tour of Oahu is the ‘Iolani Palace, which used to be the royal residence of the Hawaiian ali’i nui, and the only royal residence in the entire US. The palace is a strong symbol of Hawaiian identity and an important historic monument. The tour leads you through the private quarters of the royal family and exhibits of ancient regalia, such as the royal crowns, swords and jewelry, and includes a storytelling session where you can hear the tale of queen Liliʻuokalani imprisonment following the overthrow that established Hawaii as the 50th State.
Aloha Tower: Lighting the Way
The Aloha Tower is yet another historic landmark of Oahu, sitting pretty on Pier 9 of Honolulu Harbor in Downtown Honolulu, some 15 minutes west of Waikiki. It’s known for the uncommon style of Gothic architecture unique to Hawaii, as well as the adjoining Aloha Tower Marketplace, holding a variety of restaurants, meet-up spaces, student residences and community event areas.
Yokohama Bay: Off the Beaten Track
Yokohama Bay, aka Keawa’ula Beach is one of those off-the-beaten-path type of places, but it’s slowly gaining popularity, so you better hurry up and see it before it becomes just another tourist-crowded beach. It’s the northernmost beach on the entire Oahu, just short distance from the starting point of the trail to the island’s northwestern tip, Ka’ena Point. Whether you want to take some exquisite pics or take a chance with high winter surfs, this is the place to go.
Aloha Swap Meet: Come for the Souvenirs, Stay for the Snacks
The Swap Meet takes place on the parking lot of the Aloha Stadium (just 20 minutes from Waikiki) every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday, and it invariably draws a large crowd. This is the largest open air flea market in Hawaii, with over 400 local merchants, and it’s a nice place to walk off with a souvenir or a local snack, or both, whichever float your boat.
Tantalus Drive: Enjoy the Scenic Route
Car enthusiasts, skaters, hikers and especially photography aficionados will enjoy the Tantalus – Round Top Drive. There are lots of lookout stops along the switchback drive up the mountain, giving plenty great opportunities to take pics of the Diamond Head, Punchbowl crater and downtown Honolulu. It’s especially enthralling at sunset, though the parking might be sparse, so keep that in mind.
Dole Plantation: Hawaiian Pineapple Experience
At about a 40-minute drive from Waikiki sits the “Hawaiian Pineapple Experience”, otherwise known as Dole Plantation. There are numerous activities, organized under experienced guides, educational or otherwise, all customizable to your plans. We’d recommend hitching a ride on the Pineapple Express Train, or getting lost in the Pineapple Garden Maze, for a start.
North Shore Beaches: Work on Your Tan
If you liked Yokohama Bay, then the North Shore beaches on Oahu should thrill you. Start from Mokuleia Army Beach, and then work your way east until you run out of beaches. Haleʻiwa Beach Park is a nice place for family picnics and safe swim, while Aliʻi Beach Park works better for pro surfers and those who claim so. On a similar note, Puaʻena Point is a good place for beginners, while the popular Sunset Beach offers a little bit of something for everyone – big breakers during winter (well off shore), plenty of space for swimmers closer to shore, and, of course, beautiful sunsets.
Waimea Falls at Waimea Valley: Take a Dive
Waimea Falls, aka Waihi Falls is merely a crownpiece of the natural wonder that is Waimea Valley. The valley is not only a historical complex, being an important place for Hawaiian religion, but also a significant nature park with a number of botanical gardens. Keep in mind that there’s an admission fee. As far as the falls go, you might be interested in the hourly cliff diving exhibition taking place there, with the opportunity to take a swim in the pool below (when the divers are not performing, of course).
Diamond Head Crater: A Hike to Remember
Diamond Head, aka Leʻahi to Hawaiians, is pretty much what it reads on the tin – a volcanic crater making a promontory some 10–15 minutes southeast of Waikiki. You can take some nice pics of it from the Tantalus Drive, but to experience the full beauty of it, you should set aside some time (about 2 hours) for a toured hike to the edge of the crater’s rim. So, hikers, take notice!
Pearl Harbor: A Slice of History
No tour of Oahu would be complete without visiting Pearl Harbor, which can be a very emotional experience for many Americans, and an important lesson to anyone. You could start the tour by visiting the USS Arizona Memorial and watch the film about the fateful attack that pushed the US into the WWII, ending it where the WWII itself ended – the USS Missouri.