Oahu’s best outdoor adventures: 7 days of sun and fun

Don’t miss the chance to see the Oahu in all its scenic glory with a catamaran tour around Kuala Ranch. Hop aboard a 48-passenger boat for a narrated tour of Kaneohe Bay, Mokolii Island (Chinaman's Hat), and more. Plus, you’ll take a bus tour of Molii Gardens or a canoe ride on an ancient fishpond.Kualoa Ranch is the spot for scenery in Oahu – so much so that it’s been used in many Hollywood movies and TV shows. You’ll see the incredible backgrounds used in Jurassic Park, Lost, 50 First Dates, Hawaii 5-0, and more. The stunning piece of land also serves as a major attraction, with many people coming to visit its ancient fishpond, secret beach, and beautiful gardens.

If you're on the island of Oahu, taking a lei-making class is a great way to connect with the culture. It's a fun way to learn about Hawaii's artistic side. Personable teachers will show you how to pick the right flowers and how to construct them into the beautiful piece they will become.Making a Hawaiian lei is a unique art form that's been passed down through generations. It's all about creativity, detail, and a touch of that special island spirit. You'll start by picking fresh flowers, like orchids or plumerias, and then thread them onto a string in a particular pattern. Some leis even include nuts or shells to add a little variation. There are different styles to learn, from simple to more intricate. The best part? You get to wear your handmade lei and share the aloha spirit with others.Take a Hawaiian Lei Making class for the chance to make your own Lei and learn about an important Hawaiian custom. Your knowledgeable teacher will also inform you about the significance and uses of the Ti plant, which is often used to make Leis and hula skirts. Plus, you’ll learn all about native Hawaiian flowers like Plumeria and Puakenikeni.You’ll get to choose between making a Ti Leaf Lei or a Flower Lei using native Hawaiian flowers. Your teacher will show you how to make your Lei using a traditional Hawaiian method on Oahu's famous sunset beach.

Don't miss the chance to relax on your own stretch of a private beach. Secret Island in Oahu is a secluded beach with sweeping views of Kaneohe Bay and Mokolii Island (Chinaman's Hat). You’ll enjoy three hours' use of all facilities including kayaking, canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, swimming, volleyball, ping-pong and more. If you're looking for a more leisurely time, enjoy relaxing in a hammock under a swaying palm tree.What you do with your time is up to you. This stretch of white sand is perfect for whiling away the hours in the sun, or amping up the adrenaline and getting stuck into the varied activities. Your pass also includes an open-air bus ride through Molii Gardens where you can breathe in the sweet scent of Oahu’s wildflowers, and a ride on canoe rafts across the ancient Hawaiian fishpond. Kualoa Beach, or lovingly called Oahu's Secret Island, is a special experience that not everyone knows about. A perfect place to unwind and appreciate the natural beauty of Hawaii, oh and of course the watersports!As you explore the scenery, you’ll be walking in the footsteps of stars, as movies and TV shows including Jurassic Park, 50 First Dates, Hawaii 5-0, Lost, and Pearl Harbor were filmed here. The Kualoa Beach Ranch complex also features a historic sugar plantation and a World War II airfield that was used as a training site for the US military, and a runway for 'Kittyhawk' warplanes. 

Taste-test some of the native fruits and local delicacies along the way – depending on the season you visit.In addition to sampling some of the local foods, this tour includes a visit to Moli’i, one of the most well-preserved ancient Hawaiian fishpond (Moli'i)ain all of Oahu and an actively farmed fishpond today. It’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places by the United States Department of the Interior and is carbon-dated to around 800 to 1,000 years old. You can even still see some of the original stonewall infrastructures. Here, you’ll learn all about early Hawaiian aquaculture practices and fish farming from stories of early canoe voyages.On this specific Kualoa Tour, guests will travel on a Trolley Car to explore the tropical fruit and flower gardens of Moli’i along the shores fronting our “Secret Island.” Admire the accomplishments of the early Hawaiians as the rich stories of the voyaging canoe and ancient fishpond unfold. Taste some of the fruits along the way, depending upon the season.Kualoa Farm strives to have ideal “guide-to-guest ratios” with one guide to no more than ten guests to ensure you get the most out of your visit.

Discover the natural wonders of Waimea Valley. Situated near Waimea Bay this gorgeous 1,875-acre green oasis is made up of botanical gardens, 5,000 different kinds of plants, archeological sites, the magnificent Waimea waterfall, and a picturesque hiking trail. There are free self-guided walking tours taking place every day, and you can even experience Hawaiian culture in this spectacular natural environment by interacting with cultural artisan, playing Hawaiian games, and more!A paved path winds through 60 themed botanical gardens, featuring more than 150 plant families, including rare plants, found only on the Hawaiian Islands and some with flowers as big as basketballs. The 45ft tall Waimea Falls are the focal point of the park, and you'll get the chance to swim in the pool below, so bring along a swimsuit and towel.The trail to Waimea Falls is about 3/4 of a mile and takes approximately 30 minutes. It is paved the entire way, with gentle hills. There is also the option to explore several gravel paths off the main corridor, for more adventurous walkers wanting to see all the botanical garden collections.On the stunning North Shore of Oahu is Waimea Falls, a scenic oasis that attracts travelers with its natural beauty. The trail, often referred to as the Waimea Falls hike, leads through lush landscapes, leading hikers straight to this breathtaking waterfall. The cascading waters are often considered to be one of the best photo backdrops for that perfect Instagram shot.

There are over 25 rides and attractions to choose from in this 29-acre Water Park in Hawaii, from mild to wild and everything in between. There’s plenty here for all the family, making it a guaranteed fun day out.Wet'n'Wild Hawaii is the only water-themed amusement park on the Hawaiian Islands. Whether you want to go for a slide, ride a wave, or relax in the lazy river, you’ll have plenty to choose from. Children will love the WaterWorld playground and the giant Hawaiian Waters wave pool, while thrill-seekers will race to hit the four-story Volcano Express, visit the rainbow-coloured Waimea Whirl or get caught up in the swirling vortex of the Tornado.Once you’ve had your fill of rides, or you just need a break, you can head to the Windjammer Café orrent one of the many relaxing cabana located throughout the park. In search of a truly luxurious laze? You can also rent the VIP cottage Hale Niu - a premium cabana for up to 12 people, with private entry into the wave pool shores.

Test out your Tarzan moves with an incredible obstacle course in the sky. You’ll get a real bird's-eye view as you navigate the 18 different elements that make up this tree-top adventure. Highlights include bird swings, a nunchuck challenge and surfing on rails.This is a great one for adults and kids alike - enjoy tackling this intricate set of challenges, all the while safely harnessed. All harnesses, helmets, and double-locking clips are state-of-the-art and expert guides will be right there to guide you throughout the adventure.

Embark on a seamless and unforgettable journey to Diamond Head Crater, one of Oahu’s most iconic natural landmarks. With the Diamond Head Shuttle & Hike, you’ll enjoy the ultimate combination of convenience and adventure.Start your day with a comfortable shuttle pick-up from Waikiki, saving you the hassle of arranging transportation. Upon arrival at the Diamond Head State Monument, skip the lines and extra fees with included entry tickets that ensure a stress-free start to your experience. From the trailhead, set out on a scenic hike along a well-maintained path, surrounded by lush greenery and fascinating volcanic landscapes.This easy-to-moderate hike is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, making it accessible for families, solo travelers, and groups alike. At the summit, be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Waikiki’s sparkling coastline, the Honolulu skyline, and the endless Pacific Ocean—an incredible photo opportunity and a memory you’ll cherish.Whether you're snapping photos of the skyline or simply taking in the views, the Diamond Head Shuttle & Hike is a must-do activity for anyone exploring Oahu.

Set sail across the sparkling blue waters of Waikiki and uncover the vibrant world beneath the waves.Cruise along the island’s iconic coastline before snorkeling the colorful coral reefs. The highlight? A stop at Turtle Canyon, a natural “turtle cleaning station” where Green Sea Turtles gather while reef fish gently nibble algae from their shells, is one of the best spots on Oahu to see these incredible creatures up close.Your adventure is fully supported by a certified snorkel instructor and a lifeguard-trained crew, along with top-quality gear, including masks, fins, snorkels, and life jackets. All you need is a towel, a camera and your sense of adventure.Pack the essentials – hat, sunglasses, and reef-safe sunscreen—to protect yourself and the ocean. If you’re prone to motion sickness, it’s worth bringing medication for a more comfortable cruise.With ocean views, thriving reefs and unforgettable encounters with Hawaii’s beloved honu (Green Sea Turtles), this Waikiki snorkeling experience is as good as it gets.

At Sea Life Park Hawaii in Oahu, you'll be able to interact with Hawaii's native sea life at this immersive marine park. The intimate set up means you'll get a close-up look at the residents of Hawaii's waters.At Sea Life Park Hawaii, you'll see everything from endangered Humboldt penguins to Hawaiian reef sharks and vivid tropical fish. You'll even get the chance to feed sea turtles and watch sea lions and dolphins perform acrobatic feats.Marvel at the beautiful marine life and find out how the creatures are cared for too. The open-air Hawaiian Ocean Theater is where you'll see the sea lion, dolphin and penguin shows while learning about Sea Life Park's conservation efforts. Little ones will also love Pirate Lagoon – it boasts a nautical-themed miniature maze and play area.

This incredible five-hour tour provides you the complete story of Dec 7, 1941, the day that launched the United States into World War II; a tour to the unique USS Arizona Memorial; a drive through Downtown Honolulu; and much more in between.This Pearl Harbor tour on Oahu offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty. As you explore, you'll uncover tales of heroism and resilience. The lovely waters contrast what happened years ago, making it a must-visit for anyone in Oahu. Dive deep into the stories, feel the emotions, and leave with a newfound appreciation for the past.You'll get to see the best that the state capital of Hawaii offers on this excellent tour led by an expert guide. You'll cruise around the island in comfort and style aboard one of Fly Shuttle's sleek minbuses.A highlight of this tour is when you get admission to the National Park Service’s theater to view a 23-minute movie documentary on the bombing of Pearl Harbor and then you will board the US Navy shuttle boat to travel out to the USS Arizona Memorial that rests above the sunken battleship USS Arizona.  Here you will visit one of our nation’s most popular national monuments and stand in the shrine room to view the names of over 1,178 sailors and marines who lost their lives during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor.Following this you'll take a cruise around the city of Honolulu where you'll see Chinatown, ’Iolani Palace, Washington Place, the State Capitol Building (where you can stop for a picture at the popular statue of King Kamehameha (King of the Hawaiian Islands). Then the tour continues on to the National Cemetery of the Pacific set in the extraordinary Punchbowl Crater.Your tour guide will share special insider knowledge about living in Hawaii, along with Hawaiian history during this fantastic and 100% local tour - a fantastic experience not to be missed!

Golden sands, gentle waves and (mostly!) blue skies make Waikiki a great place for a day’s surfing.Waikiki’s gentle waves make this a great place for beginners and novices to find their feet. Catch a wave, surf the breaks and try not to wipe out! 

Unroll your mat on Waikiki’s oceanfront lawn and enjoy outdoor yoga with breathtaking views of the Hawaiian coast. Guided by expert teachers, these all-level classes create a welcoming space where you can flow, strengthen and breathe in the fresh tropical air.Surrounded by swaying palms and the sound of the ocean, you’ll connect with the sacred ‘āina (land) and its mana (energy) as you move mindfully through poses designed for every ability. Each session is crafted to relax, ground, and rejuvenate – complete with strengthening postures, mindful movement and a closing guided meditation (yes, including everyone’s favorite Shavasana).Just bring comfy clothes, a yoga mat or beach towel, and some water – you’ll leave feeling renewed, refreshed and deeply connected to Hawaii’s natural beauty.