The Gathering Place
Welcome to the thriving nightlife of Hawaii’s gateway to world — Oahu, home to Honolulu, Waikiki, the North Shore, world-class beaches, dining, and accommodations. If you are looking for the classic Hawaiian experience, Oahu has a little bit of everything that you need.
Attractions
Polynesia Cultural Center
Want to get a true flavor of island culture without having to travel extensively? Stop by the Polynesian Cultural Center in Oahu to experience the culture of seven Polynesian island groups in one place. (Photo Courtesy of Polynesia Cultural Center)
Honolulu Museum of Art
Oahu features a fantastic blending of cultures from east and west. Visit the state’s only general fine-arts museum, the Honolulu Museum of Art, to see one of the top Asian art collections in the country. (Photo Courtesy of Honolulu Museum Of Art)
Honolulu Zoo
Take the family on a trip to the Honolulu Zoo. There are over 900 tropical, Asian and African species to visit. And with its central position between the slopes of Diamond Head and Waikiki, a visit to the zoo pairs well with hiking trips or other family excursions. (Photo Courtesy of Honolulu Zoo)
Waikiki Aquarium
Visit the Waikiki Aquarium. You will be amazed at the Green Sea Turtles, Hunters on the Reef and Coral exhibits. Great for small kids to get an up-close look at the animals that live under the sea! (Photo Courtesy of Waikiki Aquarium)
Wet N Wild Water Park
Hawaii’s Wet N Wild Water Park is an excellent place to visit for families with kids of all ages. While it is located off the tourist path, it is easily reached on the public bus route. The water park has rides that range in intensity and a play area specifically for toddlers. Wet n’ Wild is open year round with varying days of closure dependent on the season. (Photo Courtesy of Wet N Wild)
USS Arizona National Monument
Take a tour of the USS Arizona National Memorial. This is a 184-foot memorial that was completed in 1961 and a flag is flown from the destroyed mast. Visitors will enjoy a short film that explains the events that transpired when Pearl Harbor was attacked.
Shore of Diamond Head
Diamond Head is one of the most famous features of Oahu. Around the base of this fabulous extinct volcano you can find shallow beaches perfect for surfing, and less crowded than the beaches of the famous North Shore.
Kailua Beach
This family-friendly beach is a must see. Close to Lanikai Beach and the Lanikai Pillbox trail, Kailua Beach is an excellent place for swimming, and its sand and water are some of the most pleasant in Oahu.
Maunawili Falls
The waterfalls on Oahu tend to be less easily accessible than on some of the other islands of the Hawaiian chain. The Maunawili Falls Trail offers beautiful waterfalls and lush foliage at the cheap price of a two and a half mile round trip hike.
Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail
This trail is one of the easiest hikes for families with small children as it is completely paved. So, bring your strollers, water, hats and sunscreen and enjoy the 1 mile hike to the peak. Don’t forget your camera as some families are lucky enough to spot a humpback whale during their migration season!
Lanikai Pillbox
Feeling like an adventurous hike? Try the trek up the Lanikai Pillbox Trail (also known as the Kaiwa Ridge Trail), before relaxing on beauitul Lanikai beach. The hike is rated as an intermediate challenge and features gorgeous views along almost the entire trail. Lanikai Beach offers crystal clear waters great for swimming and sugary white sands to relax on.
Hanauma Bay
Snorkeling tours are easily booked in Hawaii’s Hanauma Bay. This bay is one of the most famous in all Oahu snorkeling as it has a lot of tame fish, calm water and white sand. Snorkeling is closed on Tuesdays to preserve the eco system, so plan accordingly.
Food/Dining
Star of Honolulu
Enjoy the breathtaking Hawaiian sunset and panoramic views of the coastline on the Star of Honolulu dinner cruise, now featuring the “My Hawaii” show and dancing. Also available are whale-watching and holiday cruises. Star of Honolulu whale-watching cruises come with a Whale Guarantee, and children cruise free with a paid adult.(Photo Courtesy of Star of Honolulu)
Magic of Polynesia
Magic of Polynesia is more than just dinner – it’s an incredible show of death-defying magic, world-class fire knife dancing, beautiful Polynesian dances, and dramatic special effects. Choose from one of their four packages to find the show experience that fits your schedule.(Photo Courtesy of Magic of Polynesia)
Paradise Cove Luau
Paradise Cove Luau features 12 oceanfront acres, live Hawaiian music, and traditional Hawaiian ceremonies. Learn island arts and crafts, net fishing techniques, and underground oven cooking. Finish your evening with an extensive feast featuring traditional Hawaiian cuisine as well as local favorites, followed by the award-winning Paradise Cove Extravaganza. (Photo Courtesy of Paradise Cove)
Top of Waikiki
Indulge in the best contemporary regional cuisine at Top of Waikiki restaurant, and take in the 360-degree views of Waikiki, Honolulu, and beyond. This rotating restaurant completes a full rotation every hour, ensuring you’ll get a once-in-a-lifetime dinner experience. (Photo Courtesy of Top of Waikiki)
Waikiki Brewing Company
Just looking for a drink? Try Waikiki’s first ever brewery. Their seven barrel brewhouse features handmade craft brews from blondes to porters. (Photo Courtesy of Waikiki Brewing Company)