1. Home
  2. Travel
  3. Hawaii / South Pacific Travel

Oahu Activities, Attractions, Shopping and Sightseeing

A guide to the best activities, attractions, shopping and sightseeing on the island of Oahu, Hawaii.
Review of the 10-hour Kos HUMMER Circle Island Lost Location Adventure
A Review of the 10-hour Kos HUMMER Circle Island Lost Location Adventure
Honolulu Zoo
A brief history of the Honolulu Zoo and a guide to visiting Honolulu Zoo in Kapiolani Park in Waikiki, Oahu
Off the Beaten Path on Oahu
Whether you are a novice hiker or expert trailblazer, Oahu offers a plethora of hikes that suit all ability levels. Some of the more difficult hikes require hand-over-hand rock climbing, vertical ascensions and special equipment, yet at the top, those daring enough are rewarded with stunning panoramic views, upside down waterfalls and untouched vegetation. Here are a few easy and intermediate hik…
Oahu Shopping News for the Fall of 2009
Oahu is a shopping destination that has something for everyone. From fashionable designer stores to markets that carry locally made crafts, visitors are sure to love the shopping experience. Check out our Oahu Shopping News for the fall of 2009.
Oahu Activities and Entertainment News for the Fall of 2009
The island of Oahu offers a wide range of activities for every interest, every age and every budget as is seen in our Oahu activities and entertainment news for the fall of 2009.
Free in Waikiki
While the paid attractions and activities in Waikiki are some of the best in the state, there are a variety of experiences that won't cost you dime. The following list provides suggestions on things to do for free in and around Waikiki.
Off The Beaten Path On O'ahu

It amazes me how many people visit Oahu and spend their entire vacation in Waikiki, downtown Honolulu and Pearl Harbor. These people are missing so much of what Oahu has to offer! It's a beautiful island and most of it is unlike anything you'll see in Waikiki.

Oahu offers more than just shopping, nightlife and hotels. Oahu gives visitors many opportunities to explore pristine beaches a…

Top Paid Attractions and Tours on Oahu
Oahu is Hawaii's most populated and most visited island. Far too many visitors spend their vacation in Waikiki and never explore the rest of the island. There is so much to do on Oahu, that it's hard to make a choice. Here are our picks for some of the top paid attractions and tours on Oahu.
Ha: Breath of Life
Ha: Breath of Life, a spectacular new Polynesian night show will debut on Friday, August 14, 2009 at the Polynesian Cultural Center's Pacific Theater.
Oahu Shopping News for the Summer of 2009
Oahu is a shopping destination that has something for everyone. From fashionable designer stores to markets that carry locally made crafts, visitors are sure to love the shopping experience. Check out our Oahu Shopping News for the summer of 2009.
Oahu Activities and Entertainment News for the Summer of 2009
The island of Oahu offers a wide range of activities for every interest, every age and every budget as is seen in our Oahu activities and entertainment news for the summer of 2009.
BayFest 2009 - Hawaii Bayfest Celebrates 20 Years at Marine C…
BayFest 2009, Oahu's premier summer family festival, celebrates 20 years of music and magic, August 14-16, 2009 at Marine Corps Base Hawaii located on the Mokapu Penninsula on Kaneohe Bay, Windward Oahu.
What Are Your Favorite Free or Almost Free Things to Do on Oahu?
Tell us what your favorite free or almost free thing to do is on the island of Oahu.
Best Free Things to Do on O'ahu

A trip to Oahu can be expensive, but there are many free or almost free (less than $20 per person) things to do.

Even if you don't rent a car, almost all of the places and activities listed below can be reached by foot from Waikiki or by using Oahu's excellent public transportation system called TheBus. It has more than 90 routes and 4,200 stops around Oahu, and is a quick and inexpen…

What's Your Favorite Thing to Do on Oahu?
Tell us what your favorite thing to do is on the Garden Isle of Oahu.
Hina Adventures
Hina Adventures is a small community-based cultural eco-tourism company on Oahu owned and operated by two born and raised Oahu experts.
Oahu Shopping News for the Spring and Summer of 2009
Oahu is a shopping destination that has something for everyone. From fashionable designer stores to markets that carry locally made crafts, visitors are sure to love the shopping experience. Check out our Oahu Shopping News for the spring and summer of 2009.
Oahu Activities and Entertainment News for the Spring and Summer of 2009
The island of Oahu offers a wide range of activities for every interest, every age and every budget as is seen in our Oahu activities and entertainment news for the spring and summer of 2009.
The Polynesian Cultural Center
Visitors to the Hawaiian Island of Oahu have the unique opportunity to learn about the culture and people of Polynesia, not from books, films or television, but from the actual people who were born and live in the area's major island groups at the Polynesian Cultural Center in Laie.
The Original Glider Rides
See how I had the time of my life flying with Honolulu Soaring, dba The Original Glider Rides, from Dillingham Airfield on O'ahu's North Shore
Original Glider Rides Photo Gallery
A Gallery of Photos Taken on a Sailplane with Honolulu Soaring from Dillingham Airfield on Oahu's North Shore
Oahu Shopping News for the Winter and Spring of 2009
Oahu is a shopping destination that has something for everyone. From fashionable designer stores to markets that carry locally made crafts, visitors are sure to love the shopping experience. Check out our Oahu Shopping News for the winter and spring of 20098.
Oahu Activities and Entertainment News for the Winter and Spring of 2009
The island of Oahu offers a wide range of activities for every interest, every age and every budget as is seen in our Oahu activities and entertainment news for the winter and spring of 2009.
Oahu Activities and Entertainment News for the Fall and Winter of 2008
The island of Oahu offers a wide range of activities for every interest, every age and every budget as is seen in our Oahu activities and entertainment news for the fall and winter of 2008.
Oahu Shopping News for the Fall and Winter of 2008
Oahu is a shopping destination that has something for everyone. From fashionable designer stores to markets that carry locally made crafts, visitors are sure to love the shopping experience. Check out our Oahu Shopping News for the fall and winter of 2008.
Review of the 5-hour Kos Hummer Movie/Lost Adventure Tour on Oahu, Hawaii
The 5-hour Kos Hummer Movie/Lost Adventure Tour was the most fun I've ever had in over 13 years writing about the island of Oahu.
Oahu's Special Surf Culture - Duke's OceanFest, Surf Lessons, Memorabilia & More
Popularized by O'ahu surfing legend Duke Kahanamoku and perpetuated by renowned surf and pop culture icons, such as Kelly Slater and Andy and Bruce Irons, the sport of surfing is a time-honored sport that originated from the ancient Hawaiians, who considered surfing a symbol of social status and power.
Oahu Shopping News for the Summer and Fall of 2008
Oahu is a shopping destination that has something for everyone. From fashionable designer stores to markets that carry locally made crafts, visitors are sure to love the shopping experience. Check out our Oahu Shopping News for the Summer and Fall of 2008.
Oahu Activities and Entertainment News for the Summer and Fall of 2008
The island of Oahu offers a wide range of activities for every interest, every age and every budget as is seen in our Oahu activities and entertainment news for the summer and fall of 2008.
What's New With Oahu Shopping for the Spring and Summer of 2008
Oahu is a shopping destination that has something for everyone. From fashionable designer stores to markets that carry locally made crafts, visitors are sure to love the shopping experience.
What's New to Do on Oahu in the Spring and Summer of 2008
The island of Oahu offers a wide range of activities for every interest, every age and every budget.
Honolulu City Lights
A Gallery of Photos of Honolulu's Annual Christmas Celebration
2008 Festivals and Events on Oahu
O'ahu's festivals and events provide visitors and locals an opportunity to embrace the multi-cultural heritage, deep traditions and customs that are special to O'ahu and Hawaii.
Top 10 Things to Do on Oahu
There is so much to see and do on Oahu. We've chosen our top ten things to do on the island of Oahu, Hawaii.
Oahu Attractions
Our overview article introducing the best tourist attractions on the island of Oahu.
101 Free Things to Do on Oahu (or under $10)
Check out this useful and informative list of 101 things to do for free (or at least for less than $10) on the island of Oahu.
What's New to Do on Oahu in the Late Fall and Winter of 2007
The island of Oahu offers a wide range of activities for every interest, every age and every budget.
What's New With Oahu Shopping for the Late Fall and Winter of 2007
Oahu is a shopping destination that has something for everyone. From fashionable designer stores to markets that carry locally made crafts, visitors are sure to love the shopping experience.
Walking Tour of Honolulu's Historic District
Join us for a walking tour of Honolulu's Historic District including stops at the 'Iolani Palace, King Kamehameha Statue, Ali'iolani Hale, Kawaiaha'o Church and the Mission Houses Museum.
Atlantis Submarine Tour Waikiki
When totally out of the blue, I was asked if I wanted to go on an Atlantis Submarine Tour on Oahu, I jumped at the opportunity. I really knew very little about the actual Atlantis experience, so I was excited to see what this was all about. I knew that Atlantis had submarines on Oahu, Maui and the Big Island, but not much more.
Diamond Head State Monument
A guide to exploring Diamond Head State Monument on Oahu, Hawaii.
Exploring Kualoa Ranch and the Ka'a'awa Valley of Oahu, Hawaii
A visual tour of historic Kualoa Ranch and Ka'a'awa Valley including a horseback ride through Ka'a'awa Valley where numerous motion pictures and TV shows such as ABC's Lost are filmed.
Exploring the Manoa Valley on Oahu, Hawaii
Oahu's Manoa Valley, although located within minutes of Waikiki by bus or car, is often totally overlooked by visitors. While the lack of heavy visitor traffic is surely appreciated by local residents, there is much to be appreciated in this secluded corner of Hawaii which makes a visit worthwhile.
Hawaii's Historical Tours
Hawaii's Plantation Village has announced Hawaii's Historical Tours - a new sightseeing tour targeting visitors interested in learning and experiencing unique cultural aspects of Hawaii's history.
In Search of Filming Locations for ABC's Lost
When I visited Oahu in May 2005, I went in search of Lost filming locations and without too much effort located quite a few. Join me as we take a photographic journey to the places where ABC's Emmy Award Winning Best Drama Series Lost is filmed.
In Search of More Filming Locations for ABC's Lost
Join me as we search Oahu, Hawaii for more filming locations for ABC's Emmy Award winning best drama series Lost. Ten new locations located!
In Search of Still More Filming Locations for ABC's Lost
Join me as we search Oahu, Hawaii for still more filming locations for ABC's Emmy Award winning best drama series Lost.
Outrigger Catamaran Eco Sail and Snorkel Tour
The Outrigger Catamaran is now offering a 2.5-hour Eco Sail and Snorkel Tour to give passengers a rare opportunity to explore the clear waters of Waikiki's outer reefs.
Outrigger Catamaran Sunset Sail off Waikiki Beach
The Outrigger Catamaran makes several daily speed sails, three weekly eco sail and snorkel tours, and daily sunset sails. Each embarks from the beach in front of the Outrigger Reef Hotel.
Pacific Aviation Museum
The highly anticipated Pacific Aviation Museum - Pearl Harbor (PAM) opened to the public on Dec. 7, 2006, the 65th anniversary of the Japanese attack on Hawaii.
Paradise Found!
There is always something fun to do on Oahu, from extreme sports to simply lounging around in a cabana by the pool at a fancy resort. Here are 15 'must do' activities to give you a memorable vacation.
Paradise Helicopters, Turtle Bay Resort Helipad, Oahu
There is a helicopter company that flies out of a helipad at the Turtle Bay Resort - Paradise Helicopters. The Turtle Bay Resort is located about half way between Haleiwa on the North Shore's western end and Kaneohe Bay at the southern point of Oahu's Windward Coast. It seemed like the perfect location to start a helicopter tour highlighting those areas.
Wild Side Specialty Tours
There are two major reasons to make it a part of your visit to Oahu. First, the Leeward Coast is one of the most beautiful areas of Hawaii. The second major reason is Wild Side Specialty Tours. By choosing Wild Side, you'll have the opportunity to get an ocean view of the majestic coastline and see many of the numerous species of marine life that make the waters between Oahu and Kauai their home.
Oahu is Home to More Than 125 Beaches
Beaches on Oahu offer more than sunbathing and people watching on powder white sand in the embrace of warm Hawaiian sun rays. With more than 125 beaches on Oahu from which to choose, from the powerful, pounding winter waves of the North Shore to the gentle shore break of Waikiki, there is a beach on Oahu that fits every taste from a sunbathing visitor to the more athletic windsurfer
How To Reduce the Risk of Shark Attack and Injury
Incidents of sharks biting people in Hawaiian waters are very rare. Fatal shark bites are extremely rare, especially considering the number of people in Hawaii’s waters. By learning more about sharks, using common sense, and observing the following safety tips, the risk may be greatly reduced.
Wholphin Calf Born at Sea Life Park on Oahu, Hawaii
Sea Life Park has announced that Kekaimalu, the only known living hybrid of a false killer whale and Atlantic bottlenose dolphin, or wholphin, gave birth to a female calf on December 23, 2004.
Complete Whale Watch Experience on the Star Of Honolulu
Guests can observe and gain insight on Hawaii’s annual whale visitors aboard the Star of Honolulu’s 2½-hour Premier Whale Watch Cruise.
Oahu's Festivals 2003 - 2004
There is always something happening on O`ahu. Any time of year, whichever month it may be, you'll find a season (and we aren't talking about the weather) in full swing or a festival celebration just waiting to happen! You'll be immersed in the diversity of Hawaii's melting pot of ethnicities, cultures, and the arts! It's always time to come celebrate on The Island of O`ahu!
What's New With Oahu's Activities, Attractions and Tours for the Spring of 2006
The island of Oahu offers a wide range of activities for every interest, every age and every budget.
What's New With Oahu's Activities, Entertainment and Events for Fall of 2006
The island of Oahu offers a wide range of activities for every interest, every age and every budget.
What's New With Oahu's Activities, Attractions and Tours for the Winter of 2006
The island of Oahu offers a wide range of activities for every interest, every age and every budget.
What's New With Oahu's Activities, Entertainment and Events for the Spring of 20
The island of Oahu offers a wide range of activities for every interest, every age and every budget.
What's New With Oahu's Activities, Entertainment and Events for Summer of 2007
The island of Oahu offers a wide range of activities for every interest, every age and every budget.
What's New to Do on Oahu in the Late Summer and Fall of 2007
The island of Oahu offers a wide range of activities for every interest, every age and every budget.
What's New With Oahu Shopping for the Spring of 2006
For the casual shopper or sophisticated consumer, Oahu is a virtual shoppers’ paradise. From world-class brand names to handmade gifts, from boutiques to shopping centers, Oahu satisfies all shoppers.
What's New With Oahu Shopping for the Fall of 2006
For the casual shopper or sophisticated consumer, Oahu is a virtual shoppers’ paradise. From world-class brand names to handmade gifts, from boutiques to shopping centers, Oahu satisfies all shoppers.
What's New With Oahu Shopping for the Winter of 2006
For the casual shopper or sophisticated consumer, Oahu is a virtual shoppers’ paradise. From world-class brand names to handmade gifts, from boutiques to shopping centers, Oahu satisfies all shoppers.
What's New With Oahu Shopping for the Spring of 2007
For the casual shopper or sophisticated consumer, Oahu is a virtual shoppers' paradise. From world-class brand names to handmade gifts, from boutiques to shopping centers, Oahu satisfies all shoppers.
What's New With Oahu Shopping for the Summer of 2007
For the casual shopper or sophisticated consumer, Oahu is a virtual shoppers' paradise. From world-class brand names to handmade gifts, from boutiques to shopping centers, Oahu satisfies all shoppers.
What's New With Oahu Shopping for the Late Summer and Fall of 2007
Oahu is a shopping destination that has something for everyone. From fashionable designer stores to markets that carry locally made crafts, visitors are sure to love the shopping experience.
Explore Hawaii / South Pacific Travel
About.com Special Features

Holiday Central

What to eat, where to go, fun things to do and how to save money on the perfect gifts. More >

Hot Winter Travel Deals

Check out these tips on finding the best airfare, hotel rates and cruise deals. More >

  1. Home
  2. Travel
  3. Hawaii / South Pacific Travel
  4. Oahu / Honolulu / Waikiki
  5. Oahu Activities

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.