Visit Pearl Harbor & the USS Arizona Memorial

Walk in the steps of history

For history buffs, kids, and first-time visitors, Pearl Harbor is one of the top things to do on O'ahu and for good reason. Both scheduled and self-paced tours are available to walk the somber deck of the USS Arizona Memorial, the USS Bowfin, a WWII submarine, and wander the impressive aircraft collection at the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum.

Local tip: Pearl Harbor can be a full day affair, so plan ahead and find the tour that’s right for you – or just hit the highlights if you’re short on time.

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Surf Waikiki Beach

Waikiki: a beginner’s guide to surfing

In Hawaii, surfing is also known as heʻe nalu, and the sport traces its roots to indigenous ways of life with a deep respect for the ocean. Spectacular ocean swells turn O'ahu’s shoreline into one of the best surfing destinations in the world. For beginners and visitors, nothing beats surfing on Waikiki Beach – its conditions are favorable thanks to sandy ocean floors and coral reefs that break larger swells. Always check the weather forecast and sign up for a surf lesson at a local surfing school before you boogie.

Local tip: leave surfing the North Shore to the pros where the waves are extreme—but you can watch experienced surfers ride crests up to fifty-feet high and face the legendary Banzai Pipeline.

Drive Up to Nuʻuanu Pali Lookout

History and ghost stories collide at 1,200 feet above sea level

A short drive from Downtown Honolulu, you’ll find yourself enveloped in the mountains with panoramic vistas of the Kovolau cliffs and the windswept coasts of Kailua and Kāneʻohe Bay. It also happens to be one of the best viewpoints on Oʻahu. As the site of the brave Battle of Nuʻuanu, the Pali Lookout is steeped in history with its fair share of countless legends and ghost tales.

Local tip: bundle up and bring a windbreaker to protect yourself against strong gales of wind. Parking is charged per vehicle.

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Hike Diamond Head

Climb the crater’s summit for an unforgettable view

Named after its glittering stones, the crater of Diamond Head (Lē'ahi) is a distinctive Honolulu landmark with panoramic views of the city and eastern O'ahu. The trail to the summit of Lē‘ahi is technically short, clocking in at 0.8 miles, but it’s steep and strenuous with a 560-foot elevation gain and switchbacks. The view is 100 percent worth it.

Local tip: out-of-state visitors must have an advance reservation to enter Diamond Head State Monument, and no pets are allowed except for service animals.

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Snorkel Hanauma Bay

Experience Hawaii’s most popular snorkeling spot

As a protected marine preserve, novice and experienced snorkelers have a front row seat to vibrant ocean life. Green sea turtles, octopus, and colorful fish call Hanauma Bay home, with many species only found in Hawaii’s tropical waters. Be mindful of protected coral as you navigate the waters!

Local tip: first-time visitors must watch a short nine-minute safety and conservation video before entering the Bay. If you need assistance walking, there’s a tram that will take you to the beach.

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Visit the Polynesian Cultural Center

Voted Oʻahu's most authentic lūʻau

The Polynesian Cultural Center is an immersive Polynesian-themed park with six villages that showcase the traditions of Polynesian cultures from Tahiti to Tonga. Check out their cultural calendar for presentations, performances like the Maori “haka” warrior dance, fishing lessons, and ancient games. You can’t miss the award-winning evening lūʻau here – you’re in for a treat with beautiful choreography, Samoan fire dancing, and juicy kalua pig.

Local tip: There’s so much to see and do – if you have the time, get the three-day pass to experience it all.

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