Oahu is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the world and if you get to visit this island paradise, you´ll quickly see why!
As Hawaii’s most populated and visited island, Oahu offers the best of both worlds – a bustling city atmosphere (Honolulu) with all the modern conveniences, as well as a beautiful countryside to enjoy nature.
But if you limit your Hawaiian vacation to Honolulu, you’re missing out. There are plenty of other things to do!
How to get to Oahu
The Oahu’s major airport is in Honolulu with the airport code of HNL. It’s by far Hawaii’s largest airport and hub.
You´ll find best deals flying from San Francisco or Los Angeles. Flight time is aprox 5 hours. From Europe the best
way to get to Oahu is flying from London to Los Angeles (flight time aprox 11 hours) and from there to Honolulu International Airport.
Where to stay
Each region on Oahu is very different and will give you a slightly unique experience. Which area is the best for you? Here is my suggestions:
Waikiki – most popular place to stay, surf beach, the strip.
Diamond Head – relaxed vibes, near to Diamond head crater.
North Shore – surf town and chill vibes. West side – away from the hype, great gateway, best beaches.
Ala Moana – central location, restaurants & bars, easy living.
Also I suggest you to rent a car in order to explore the island. There are many options and the prices is very competitive. We hired our car with Alamo and all process went smoothly.
What to do & see in Oahu
• Snorkeling at beautiful Hanauma Bay;
• Escape to Kailua beaches (our favorite Waimanalo beach and Kailua beach).
• Start your morning with a short sunrise hike at Lanikai Pillbox Hike Trail, overlooking the ocean and amazing scenery.
• Visit Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden. This 400 acre garden is nestled at the base of the majestic Ko`olau Mountains, known for its lush, tropical vegetation and bright, aromatic flowers.
• Head to Kawela Bay Oahu. If your looking for tranquility and pure nature, this beach is what you need, with its protected cove beach and a backdrop of beautiful trees.
• Watch the sunset in North Shore. It is the best place to watch the sunset on Oahu Island.
• Enjoy a short hike on the Manoa Falls Trail, the filming location of Jurassic Park. You can get there in less than fifteen minutes from Waikiki.
• The Diamond Head hike offers some of the best views of Honolulu along with a chance to check out an incredible ancient crater.
• Don´t miss to watch the famous sunset in Waikiki beach!
Enjoy beautiful views on the beach and then have a nice dinner in one of many restaurants on the main street.
Hope this provided information somehow will be useful on planning your trip to Oahu island!
Have a nice trips!
For more travel inspiration to United Stated check my posts here: https://travelwithanny.com/category/destinations/united-states-of-america/
Your sincerely,
Anny