Love is always in the air on Oahu...

Our pick of the Hawaii resorts, tours and activities for all the hopeless romantics out there, including stargazing, volcano sunsets and canyon hikes.

Romantic Destinations in Hawaii

<p>With those sun-kissed beaches, seductive sunsets and alluring volcanic landscapes, it&rsquo;s no surprise that Hawaii is one of the planet&rsquo;s hottest honeymoon destinations. Here&rsquo;s where romance, relaxation and adventure come together in perfect Hawaiian harmony that&rsquo;s sure to set even the hardest of hearts aflutter. So grab your partner&rsquo;s hand and take a dive into our guide to the most romantic destinations in Hawaii.</p>

<h2>Hawaii&rsquo;s Most Romantic Resorts</h2>


<p>You want romance? You won&rsquo;t get it from just any old run-of-the-mill four-star hotel. But fear not: if there&rsquo;s one thing the Hawaiian islands ain&rsquo;t short of it&rsquo;s bells-and-whistles luxury accommodation. Take <strong>Turtle Bay Resort</strong>, for example. Perched on Oahu&rsquo;s beloved north shore, it&rsquo;s in pole position for taking advantage of those swoonsome tropical sunrises and sunsets. Couples are in clover here, where ocean club bungalows have private balconies and access to an adults only infinity pool, and the next mai tai or coconut pohaku warm stone massage is only a footstep away.</p>


<p>There are several spectacular blowholes across Hawaii&rsquo;s islands, each with a powerful geyser, and there&rsquo;s a good chance you&rsquo;ll want to see at least one of them on your vacation. Oahu&rsquo;s Hālona Blowhole is the most popular. But does it come with a perfect heart-shaped hole in the rock formations next to it? No, dear reader, it does not. For that particular treat you&rsquo;ll have to head for one of the most romantic destinations in Hawaii: Maui&rsquo;s Nakalele Point. However, please be warned that this intoxicating beauty spot may result in you dropping to one knee and spontaneously proposing to your partner before you can stop yourself&hellip;</p>

<h3>Waimea Canyon</h3>


<p>Hiking hand-in-hand through Waimea Canyon and Kōkeʻe State Park on the island of Kauaʻi is just about as romantic as going for a walk can get. Think great rugged crags, deep gorges and more Insta-perfect red rock vistas than you can shake a very large stick at. There are plenty of trails to suit everyone from the casual rambler to the lycra-clad climber, or you can opt to take the scenic route by car if aching calves and glutes ain&rsquo;t your idea of romance. Don&rsquo;t miss the expansive views from the Waimea Canyon Lookout (mile marker 10) and follow the Cliff Canyon and Black Pipe trail if you&rsquo;re in the market for a cooling couples&rsquo; dip in the pool at Waip&rsquo;o Falls.</p>

<h3>Romantic Activities in Hawaii</h3>


<p>An attractions pass from Go City can save you money on romantic activities on Oahu and beyond. Think Hawaiian lei-making on Sunset Beach, traditional fire-dancing workshops, catamaran sailing and turtle-spotting excursions, guided hikes of the spectacular North Shore, entry to the epic Waimea Valley botanical gardens and waterfall, and much more. <a href="https://gocity.com/en/oahu" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Click here to find out more about the types of pass available.</a></p>


<p>Then there&rsquo;s the <strong>Four Seasons Resort Maui</strong> at the southern end of Wailea Beach. If you can prise yourself away from the widescreen ocean views here, a whole world of romance awaits you. We&rsquo;re talking private poolside cabanas, romantic sunset dining on the sand, and couples&rsquo; snorkeling experiences.</p>

<p>Over on Kauai, the opulent <strong>Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort &amp; Spa</strong> promises golden sands, azure waters and mountain views that are guaranteed to melt your heart. Having the biggest spa on the island (45,000 square feet, no less) doesn&rsquo;t hurt either. Book yourself in for uber-indulgent treatments for two in the private garden bungalows.</p>

<p>If you want to be in the heart of the action, you could do worse than the <strong>Sheraton Waikiki</strong>, where views of Diamond Head and Waikiki Beach from the Edge infinity pool and lively RumFire bar-restaurant are easily among the most romantic in town.</p>

<h2>Romantic Things to do in Hawaii</h2>


<p>There are oodles of romantic things you can do with your other half on Hawaii&rsquo;s enchanting islands: strolling hand-in-hand across sunkissed sands, gazing into each other&rsquo;s eyes over starlit lobster dinners, declaring your undying love after that third rum-laced Blue Hawaiian.</p>

<p>But if you really want to set your heart racing (both literally and figuratively), Hawaii&rsquo;s epic natural wonders are where its at. Turn up the heat with hikes to stunning volcanic peaks, come over all existential on night-time stargazing excursions, or grab that essential souvenir selfie (ussie?) at Nakalele Blowhole. Read on for our pick of Hawaii&rsquo;s most heart-meltingly romantic destinations&hellip;</p>

<h3>Volcanic Views</h3>


<p>Is there anything more romantic than cuddling up to your loved one on a mountaintop? Hawaii&rsquo;s many volcanic peaks provide ample opportunity for enjoying those swoonworthy Pacific sunrises and sunsets together, blanket wrapped around your shoulders as the sky rolls through its technicolor display of flamingo pinks, bruised purples and fiery reds. Hit up the Jaggar Museum Overlook on the Big Island for some of the very best. You&rsquo;ll also enjoy the unique experience of observing one of the world&rsquo;s most active volcanoes up close. Snuggle up close as the sun goes down and Kīlauea&rsquo;s Halemaʻumaʻu Crater glows red and orange in the twilight. Want more? Hop over to Maui for sensational sunrises up top of Haleakalā Crater, from where the whole of the Big Island comes slowly into view in the gathering morning light. Magical.</p>

<h3>Starry Starry Nights</h3>


<p>Gazing into volcanoes and pondering the meaning of life only just scratches the surface of Hawaii&rsquo;s mountaintop activities. You can also take guided hikes of most crater rims, or spend an evening staring at the sky&#39;s rich tapestry of stars with local experts as they wax lyrical about our spectacular solar system. The Onizuka Center for International Astronomy, located about halfway up Mauna Kea on the Big Island, is excellent, and offers free nightly stargazing programs, though this is as far up the mountain as you&rsquo;ll get in a normal car. Want to continue all the way to its 14,000-foot peak? Take a 4x4 and an expert guide, and be sure to spend a few hours at the center first, to acclimatize to the high elevation. Those who make the pilgrimage (and don&rsquo;t succumb to altitude sickness) are rewarded with unparalleled views of galaxies, constellations, nebulae and more.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>Nakalele Blowhole</h3>


Romantic Destinations in Hawaii | Go City®

Where better to celebrate another year around the sun?

All the best ways to get the party started for your birthday in Honolulu and Oahu, including mai tais, mountain stargazing, catamarans, cake and more!

Things to do in Oahu and Honolulu for a Birthday

<p>What&rsquo;s your idea of a memorable birthday? If it involves explosive volcano hikes, technicolor sunsets, multiple mai tais, and moonlit stargazing experiences &ndash; not to mention eating your own bodyweight in coconut cake &ndash; you&rsquo;ve come to the right place. There are stacks of great things to do in Oahu and Honolulu for your birthday and we&rsquo;ve rounded up some of the very best to help you get the party started, including:</p>

<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Traditional luau shows</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Haupia cake</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Honolulu Zoo</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Cocktails at sunset</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Oahu stargazing</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Diamond Head hikes</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Waimea Valley botanical gardens</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Catamaran sailing tours</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Honolulu nightlife</li>
</ul>

<h2>Cake, Glorious Cake</h2>


<p>A birthday without a cake is no birthday at all, so start your special day the right way with Oahu&rsquo;s finest: the delectable treat that is haupia. Admittedly more pudding than cake in its traditional form, it&rsquo;s kind of like a coconut jelly. Combined with the sweet flavors of Oahu&rsquo;s North Shore pineapples, however, it&rsquo;s like pure sunshine in your mouth, the closest it&rsquo;s possible to get to a genuine pina colada in cake form. But hey, it&rsquo;s your birthday, so why stop there? Follow up with great slabs of guava chiffon cake and chocolate chantilly cake as the day progresses. Yum.</p>

<h2>Set Sail Aboard a Catamaran</h2>


<p>Oahu sunsets are among the best in the world, a surefire way to fill your birthday Insta feed with #humblebrag shots of burnished-copper and rust-red skies. Complete the effect with a colorful cocktail &ndash; blue Hawaiian or mai tai, with its citrusy blend of lime, sweet orgeat syrup, orange cura&ccedil;ao and mule&rsquo;s kick of rum for the win. The legendary Duke&rsquo;s on Waikiki Beach is the connoisseur&#39;s choice for the best views of Diamond Head and the bay, but there are countless fun tiki bars down here for birthday boys and girls to choose from.</p>

<h2>Take in a Traditional Luau</h2>


<p>Another popular birthday activity in Oahu is the classic Polynesian luau. Some of the best and most authentic of these are small, family-run affairs, where the aloha spirit is abundant and you&rsquo;re invited to take an active role in the colorful traditions: dancing, dining and dressing up. The Hawaii mega resorts offer slicker, bigger-budget takes on the luau, promising lavish banquets, fireworks, bombastic music and more, and you&rsquo;ll find some of these included with <a href="https://gocity.com/en/oahu" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">the Go City Oahu attractions pass.</a></p>

<h2>Hit the Honolulu Pubs and Clubs</h2>


<p>Honolulu positively heaves with great places to party, from rocking rooftop joints like Mai Tai&rsquo;s atop the Ala Moana Mall to classy cocktails at Lewers Lounge in the upscale Halekulani Hotel. Get your boogie on at some of the city&rsquo;s hottest nightclubs, even if you should be old enough to know better! Follow the hip crowd to Chinatown&#39;s lively Manifest, get down to superstar DJ-spun tunes on Nextdoor&rsquo;s massive dance floors, or dance yourself dizzy at Sky Waikiki, atop the towering Waikiki Business Plaza.</p>

<h2>Birthday Stargazing</h2>


<p>For something a little more&hellip; sedate, spend your birthday evening on Oahu contemplating life, the universe and everything as you stare up at the tapestry of stars that hangs high above the islands. Some of the best spots for this particular birthday treat include the iconic Halona Blowhole, Ka&rsquo;ena Point, and the North Shore&rsquo;s stunning surf beaches. Anywhere, in other words, where you&rsquo;re some way from the city lights. Go it alone or join one of the island&rsquo;s regular guided stargazing sessions. Or, if you want to go really stratospheric for your Hawaiian birthday experience, hop over to Big Island where the Mauna Kea mountain has a dedicated astronomy center with stargazing telescopes about halfway up, and tours all the way to the top, for unparalleled Milky Way views, can be arranged.</p>

<h2>Save on birthday activities, tours and attractions in Oahu</h2>

<p>Save on admission to Oahu attractions with <a href="https://gocity.com/en/oahu" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Go City</a>. Check out @GoCity on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/gocity/" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Instagram</a> for the latest top tips and attraction info.</p>


<p>For many, the whole point of a birthday is putting your feet up and behaving like some sort of A-list celeb while everyone else does the heavy lifting. If that sounds appealing, a catamaran tour of Oahu&rsquo;s Insta-perfect coastline is likely to be just the birthday treat for you. Cruising past soaring, jungle-clad mountains and over submerged volcanic craters, you&rsquo;ll be well positioned to spot some of the local wildlife: playful dolphins, flying fish, maybe even the occasional migrating whale! Pull out all the stops on your special day with a decadent bells-and-whistles experience that includes lunch on deck, snorkeling stops, and chilled glasses of bubbly.</p>

<h2>Say it with Flowers</h2>


<p>There are a whopping 52 themed zones in the 1,875-acre oasis that is the Waimea Valley botanical gardens. Here&rsquo;s where you can ogle, snap and sniff some 5,000 tropical and subtropical plants, including endangered species and native Hawaiian beauties like <em>loulou</em> palms and the delicate white <em>Koki&#39;o ke&#39;oke&#39;o</em> flower &ndash; the world&rsquo;s only scented hibiscus. Follow paved trails through the themed gardens, breathing in the fresh scents of flora from Fiji, Guam, the Americas and beyond. The shady groves and cooler climate in this lush botanical paradise make it a great place to wander while the tropical sun is at its most punishing. But if the heat does get too much, you can always cool off with a dip in the pools beneath the mighty Waimea Falls, the focal point of this huge natural park.</p>

<h2>Hawaii&rsquo;s Hottest Hike</h2>


<p>Hawaii ain&rsquo;t short of a fine hiking opportunity or two. But if you only do one, make it Diamond Head, the iconic volcanic crater at the eastern end of Waikiki Beach. It&rsquo;s a relatively unchallenging walk that takes you 760 feet up to the crater&rsquo;s forested rim, affording splendid views of Honolulu, Waikiki Beach and beyond. You need to book a slot to be permitted entry, and early risers are likely to enjoy the best of the climb, thanks to cooler temperatures, smaller crowds, and those glorious Hawaiian sunrise skies &ndash; gates open at 6AM. Shuttle trips to/from the trail from any Waikiki hotel are included with a Go City Oahu attraction pass, which can save you money when taking in several tours, attractions and activities on the island. <a href="https://gocity.com/en/oahu" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Find out more about the Oahu pass here.</a>&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Honolulu Zoo</h2>


<p>First opened way back in 1877 to house King David Kalakaua&rsquo;s burgeoning bird collection, Honolulu Zoo is now home to some 1,000+ cute critters. Pop by on your birthday to say &lsquo;aloha&rsquo; to some of the residents. We&rsquo;re talking vibrant Fiji banded iguanas, ferociously cute fennec foxes, and chatty golden lion tamarins, as well as indigenous species including Hawaiian hawks, colorful Kamehameha butterflies and the nene (or Hawaiian goose), official state bird of Hawaii. It&rsquo;s a great Oahu birthday day out for kids and adults alike. You can even host a kids&rsquo; party at the zoo; <a href="https://www.honoluluzoo.org/" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">find out more here.</a></p>

<h2>Birthday Sundowners!</h2>


Things to do in Oahu and Honolulu for a Birthday | Go City®

With cascading falls this beautiful, we wouldn't blame anyone for chasing waterfalls in Oahu

Powerful and dramatic, or gentle and relaxing: Oahu's waterfalls will leave you wonderstruck. Here are five of the island's best.

The Best Waterfalls in Oahu

<p>Oahu is known for many things&mdash;great food, history and culture, and of course, the lush natural world. If you&rsquo;re hoping to explore the outdoors in Oahu, we&rsquo;ve got this handy guide to help you experience the best waterfalls in Oahu.</p>

<p>Here&rsquo;s our list of the top waterfalls in Oahu, in no particular order, plus things to do at that waterfall. Whether you&rsquo;re interested in swimming, cliff diving, or just snapping photos, you&rsquo;ll find the perfect waterfall for your Oahu vacation. Here is a list of the top waterfalls in Oahu, including...</p>

<ul>
	<li>Manoa Falls</li>
	<li>Waimea Falls</li>
	<li>Maunawili Falls</li>
	<li>Waikahalulu Falls</li>
	<li>Waimano Falls</li>
</ul>


<p>One of the most popular hikes for visitors looking to enjoy the local waterfalls without too much time or effort, Manoa Falls is a quick trip from Waikiki. There&#39;s a clearly defined trail the whole way, with small streams and beautiful flora surrounding you en route. The waterfall itself is more intense during the winter months but is just as beautiful in the summer. Keep an eye out for terrain that may seem familiar - franchises like&nbsp;<em>Lost&nbsp;</em>and&nbsp;<em>The Hunger Games</em>&nbsp;filmed scenes in this area.</p>


<p>Located on the North Shore of Oahu, Waimea Falls is found in the valley of the same name.&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/oahu/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/waimea-valley" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Waimea Valley</a>&nbsp;has botanical gardens, multiple archaeological sites, an abundance of flowers and plants, and its signature waterfall.</p>

<p>Waimea Falls is high enough for visitors to jump into the water, and the bottom is a great place to swim as well. Spend a few hours in Waimea Valley to make the most of all it has to offer.</p>


<p>One of the most popular waterfalls in Oahu, Muanawili Falls can be quite crowded during the busy season but is worth the trek. It&rsquo;s reached via a 2.5-mile roundtrip hike through dense forest, just off the Pali Highway. Cliff jumping is possible here as well, although, as always, be careful and check the conditions before you do so. The nature photography opportunities here are unreal, with lush flora and fauna surrounding the falls,</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


<p>Found in the lovely Lili&rsquo;uokalani Gardens (in Honolulu), this small but beautiful waterfall is easy to get to from any hotel in Waikiki. There&rsquo;s a serene pool at the end of the falls, making this quite a picturesque spot. This is a great place for a picnic or snapping photos of the rushing waters and lush surrounding greenery. According to local history, it was a favorite swimming spot of Queen Lili&rsquo;uokalan, the gardens&rsquo; namesake.</p>


<h2>Waimano Falls</h2>

<p>A visit to Waimano Falls will likely be a whole-day event. The route to reach the falls is approximately 3 miles round trip, and the journey will take about an hour each way due to the terrain. It&rsquo;s less popular among tourists, so it&rsquo;s a nice opportunity to see the wilds of Oahu with fewer crowds.</p>

<p>Upon arrival at the terminus of the trial, you&rsquo;ll enjoy the stunning falls (which are high enough for cliff jumping) and the two pools below, which are ideal for swimming and lounging. Budget in enough time to relax and enjoy the falls as the journey back will be pretty intense.</p>


<h2>Save on waterfall tours with&nbsp;Go City&reg;&nbsp;</h2>

<p>If you want to explore some of these inspiring waterfalls in Oahu, consider taking a tour. Our favorite is the&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/oahu/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/rainforest-waterfalls-and-movie-sites-hike" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Rainforest, Waterfalls, and Movie Sites Hike</a>, which specifically focuses on Manoa Falls. You&#39;ll see where scenes from The Hunger Games and Hawaii Five-O were filmed and soak&nbsp;up the sights and sounds of Oahu waterfalls without the fuss of planning transport and trail routes.</p>

<p>☀️ <a href="https://gocity.com/en/oahu" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Compare Oahu passes</a> ☀️&ndash; 🌏 <a href="https://gocity.com/en" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Explore other destinations </a>🌏 &ndash;&nbsp; ✈️ <a href="https://gocity.com/en/oahu/passes?duration=3" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Buy a pass ✈</a>&nbsp;</p>


Whether you’re interested in swimming, cliff diving, or just snapping photos, you’ll find the perfect waterfalls for your Oahu vacation.

The Best Waterfalls in Oahu, Hawaii - Go City

For romantic sunset spots, you're spoiled for choice in Oahu!

Oahu is one of the best places to watch the sunset. We asked a 5th generation local what her top 5 favorite places to watch the sunset are. Enjoy.

5 of the Best Places to Watch the Sunset on Oahu

<p>Oahu is one of the best places to watch the sunset at the end of the day. We asked Kathy, a 5th generation local expert, about her top 5 favorite places to watch the sunset. Here are her picks!</p>


<p>For a view of the sunset, certain spots on Tantalus Mountain offer a unique elevated inland view. Head to one of the pull-offs along this narrow mountain road for a rare view of the sun dipping into the ocean.&nbsp;</p>


<p>Visitors can see the &quot;green flash&quot; from Waikiki as the sun hits the horizon which makes it one of the best places to go to watch the sunset. Make it a special event with a Mai Tai or a glass of wine at The House without a Key, Halekulani Hotel, or Dukes at the Outrigger Waikiki on the Beach Hotel. Or, check out one of Waikiki&#39;s many other resorts with a beachside bar or caf&eacute;.</p>

<p>There are plenty of great contenders to watch the best sunset in Oahu but we hope these suggestions help you choose your spot.&nbsp;</p>


<h2>See it all with Go City&reg;</h2>

<p>Discover our full line-up of Oahu attractions including a Makani Catamaran sail, the Polynesian Culture Center, Hawaiian Lei making, and more.</p>

<p>🤩 &gt;&gt; If you want to see and do as much as you can, our <a href="https://gocity.com/en/oahu/passes?duration=3." target="_blank">All-Inclusive Pass</a>&nbsp;is for you.</p>

<p>😎 &gt;&gt; If you want to pick just a few attractions and visit at your own pace, our <a href="https://gocity.com/en/oahu/passes?duration=3" target="_blank">Explorer Pass</a>&nbsp;is the perfect option.</p>


<p>For a picturesque sunset experience, head over to Ala Moana Beach Park. Walk out to the end of the dreamy island, take a seat on any one of the many benches and watch the sun slip below the horizon.&nbsp;</p>


<p>Down the street from Ala Moana is a great waterfront park with a perfect view of the sunset. With endless rolling hills and a long walkway to the water, you&#39;d never guess that this park was once a dump site! It&#39;s now the perfect spot to sit and reflect while watching a beautiful pink and purple sunset.&nbsp;</p>


<h2>Sunset Beach or Shark&rsquo;s Cove&nbsp;</h2>


<p>The sunsets from the north shore are spectacular year-round. Depending on when you visit the island, you&#39;ll see one of two different types of sunsets: the winter season will give you a powerful wave display while the sun sets, and the summer season makes for a more serene and calm day&#39;s end. Neither will disappoint you, as this spot offers one of the best sunset views in Oahu.</p>


Explore the best of Oahu with out must-do list!

With endless experiences to discover, Honolulu is our pick for an incredible Hawaiian vaycay!

25+ Things to Do in Honolulu on Your Hawaiian Vacation

Check out these great things to do in Honolulu. Save up to 55% on combined admission to many of these top attractions & activities. Enjoy!

25+ Things to Do in Honolulu - Must Do Honolulu Attractions

There's more to Maui than just breathtaking beaches.

From adventure sports to tasting your way around the island, a vibrant art scene, and more, Maui will be a vacation you'll remember forever.

5 Reasons to Vacation in Maui

<p>When&rsquo;s the best time to visit Maui? Well, anytime. There are really only two seasons in Maui: warm (winter) and warmer (summer). But don&rsquo;t fear overheating &mdash; the year-round trade winds are enough to keep you comfortable even when temperatures reach the 90s.</p>

<p>You&rsquo;ll bask in perfect weather all the time. And if that&rsquo;s not enough to lure you to the romantic Hawaiian island, here are 5 reasons to&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/oahu/things-to-do/5-reasons-to-vacation-in-maui#">vacation in Maui</a>&nbsp;that you won&rsquo;t be able to refute.</p>

<h3>1. Home to the best beaches in the world.</h3>


<p>In Maui, you&rsquo;ll find over 30 miles of pristine beaches. The coastline has white, black, and red sand beaches that are consistently ranked among the best in the world. Kapalua Beach was the first Maui beach to be named &ldquo;America&rsquo;s Best Beach&rdquo; in 1991, and since then several of Maui&rsquo;s beaches have found themselves at the number one spot.</p>

<p>Other popular sites are Wailea Beach, Hamoa Beach, and Kaanapali Beach. In addition to offering beautiful settings for swimming and sunbathing, many of Maui&rsquo;s beaches are renowned surfing and windsurfing locations. So, if you&rsquo;re looking for an easily accessible beach with lifeguards and facilities, Maui&rsquo;s got the goods. And if you&rsquo;re looking for a romantic beach that&#39;s off the beaten path, Maui&rsquo;s got those, too.</p>


<h3>2. Abundance of outdoor activities</h3>


<p>Whether you love being on land or are a fan of the deep blue sea, Maui boasts lots of options for outdoor adventure. For the laidback land-lover, hiking, golfing, and horseback riding are prime activities. For the thrill-seeker, try one of Maui&rsquo;s many zipline rides. On-the-water activities are endless, of course. Take a surf lesson, snorkel with some tropical fish, learn to scuba dive, or hop on board a boat.</p>

<p>If you&rsquo;re into fishing, try that, too. Another highlight: whale watching. In the right season (December to April), Maui is the best place in the world for observing humpback whales. Even if you don&rsquo;t go on a whale watching tour, you&rsquo;ll often be able to spot whales right from the hillside overlooking the ocean (binoculars will be handy).</p>


<p>Few tourists are aware of this side of Maui. Maui is home to many top-of-the-line art galleries showcasing everything from paintings to ceramics, woodwork, and handmade jewelry. The town of Lahaina has a reputation for its art market with dozens of galleries featuring work by locals. On Friday&rsquo;s &ldquo;Art Night,&rdquo; you&rsquo;ll have the opportunity to chat with artists, view their pieces, and celebrate the arts with music and festivities, as the galleries swing open their doors!</p>

<p>Several other small-town artist communities are also dotted around the island if you feel like traveling off the beaten path. Finally, while exploring Maui&rsquo;s art scene, don&rsquo;t forget to check out the Maui Arts &amp; Cultural Center or any of the other art hubs on the island.</p>


<p>Don&#39;t miss the opportunity to try some unique cuisine on Maui, the island that put Hawaii on the culinary map. Maui is the birthplace of a culinary movement called Hawaii Regional Cuisine, which combines fresh island ingredients (like fish) with Asian and European influences.</p>

<p>Three of the original chefs behind this movement have restaurants in Maui: Beverly Gannon (Haliimaile General Store, Joe&rsquo;s), Mark Ellman (Mala Ocean Tavern, Mala Wailea), and Peter Merriman (Hula Grill, Merriman&rsquo;s Kapalua). You&rsquo;ll find other restaurants featuring this unique cuisine in the resort areas like Kapalua, Kaanapali, Lahaini, Kihei, and Wailea.</p>

<p>But that&rsquo;s not all the island has to offer! Try a traditional meal at a sunset luau or get some inexpensive home-style cooking in Wailuku and Kahului. Last but not least, save room for locally-made ice cream and the island&#39;s signature shave ice.</p>


<p>We&rsquo;ve already mentioned the beautiful beaches...but there&rsquo;s more. Maui is well known for its natural wonders. The &ldquo;magical island&rdquo; boasts rolling hills and misty mountains, lush tropical forests, cascading waterfalls, farms and botanical gardens, rugged cliffs, tranquil pools of water, volcanic craters, and more.</p>

<p>Stroll along the beach at dawn or dusk to experience what will likely be the most beautiful sunrise or sunset you&rsquo;ve ever seen. Drive along the scenic Hana highway until you reach Haleakala National Park (&ldquo;The House of the Sun&rdquo;), home to Maui&rsquo;s highest peak. No matter where you go or what you do in Maui, you can&rsquo;t escape the phenomenal views.</p>


<h2>Save up to 50% on Oahu attractions&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Discover our full line-up of <a href="https://gocity.com/en/oahu/attractions" target="_blank">Oahu attractions</a> from the Polynesian Cultural Center, fire dance workshops coconut basket weaving, and more</p>

<p>🤩 &gt;&gt; If you want to see and do as much as you can, our <a href="https://gocity.com/en/oahu/passes/all-inclusive?days=3&amp;choices=3" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank"> All-Inclusive Pass</a> is for you.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>😎 &gt;&gt; If you want to pick just a few attractions and visit at your own pace, our <a href="https://gocity.com/en/oahu/passes/explorer?days=3&amp;choices=3" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Explorer Pass</a> is the perfect option.&nbsp;</p>


If you visit Maui you’ll bask in perfect weather all the time. And if that’s not enough to lure you to the Hawaiian island, here are 5 reasons to visit.

5 Reasons to Vacation in Maui - Go City

Our whistle-stop guide to Hawaii’s most popular island includes hikes up Diamond Head, traditional Polynesian dancing and lazy days (and Mai Tai cocktails) on Waikiki Beach.

Oahu’s relatively compact size means four days is plenty to get a taste of the island’s highlights, all golden beaches and gin-clear waters, lush forest-clad volcanoes, sun-drenched pineapple plantations and historical attractions like Pearl Harbor and Iolani Palace. Read on for our 4-day guide to Oahu and Honolulu for first-time visitors…

4 Days in Oahu & Honolulu for First-Timers

<p><strong><u>Morning:</u></strong></p>

<p>The sun-kissed sands of Waikiki Beach are top of the bucket-list for most first-time visitors to Hawaii. And why not? Waikiki, after all, is the beach that has everything. We&rsquo;re talking warm powdery sand, gently rolling surf, and tiki bars touting fruity Mai Tai and Blue Hawaiian cocktails. And then there are those frankly ridiculous views of Diamond Head. Bag a spot on the sand and don Kardashian-sized sunglasses for some of the best seafront people-watching opportunities on the island, as lobster-skinned Europeans slurp shave ice and wannabe Patrick Swayzes wipe out in the shallows.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><u>Afternoon:</u></strong></p>

<p>Your first day on Oahu is all about rest and relaxation, right? Right. Which is why next on your itinerary is a luxury lunchtime catamaran cruise of the bay. Take a prosecco picnic (or book a ride with lunch provided) and enjoy smooth sailing as you cruise along Oahu&rsquo;s Insta-perfect coastline taking in soaring, jungle-clad mountains, submerged volcanic craters, and, who knows, maybe even the occasional migrating whale! Back on dry land, take the opportunity to give the old credit card a workout in Waikiki&rsquo;s Luxury Row (hello Chanel, Gucci and Dior), or keep it real at the six-story Waikiki Shopping Plaza for high-street brands and restaurants galore.</p>


Day 1: Waikiki

<p><strong><u>Evening:</u></strong></p>

<p>Sundowners at the legendary Duke&rsquo;s on Waikiki Beach are practically a rite of passage when visiting Oahu and, with its zesty blend of orange cura&ccedil;ao, lime, sweet orgeat syrup, and mule&rsquo;s kick of rum, their Mai Tai is a Hawaii must-try. Book to avoid disappointment! Afterwards, hit up Honolulu&rsquo;s hottest nightspots: Kaka&rsquo;ako&rsquo;s lively dive bars, posh cocktails at Halekulani Hotel, and the chance to dance yourself dizzy at Sky Waikiki, way up top of the soaring Waikiki Business Plaza building.</p>


<p><strong><u>Morning:</u></strong></p>

<p>The collection of monuments and museums at Pearl Harbor provide a moving insight into Hawaii&rsquo;s role in the Second World War, as well as commemorating all of those whose lives were lost. There are many ways to visit Oahu&rsquo;s most popular attraction, but one of the best (and easiest) is on a comprehensive guided tour. Most such tours include a speedboat ride to the memorial marking the resting place of the sunken USS <em>Arizona </em>battleship and a trip up to the National Cemetery of the Pacific, set on top of an extinct volcano.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Top tip:</strong> You can access most of Pearl Harbor&rsquo;s individual attractions and museums, including Battleship Missouri and the Aviation Museum, with an Oahu attraction pass from Go City. The immersive 5-hour tour is also included with the pass, which <strong>could save you up to 50%</strong> on more than 40 Hawaii attractions, tours and activities. <a href="https://gocity.com/en/oahu" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank"><strong><u>Find out more and get your pass here.</u></strong></a></p>


Day 2: Historic Honolulu

<p><strong><u>Afternoon:</u></strong></p>

<p>Grab a seafood poke bowl or fish taco for a quick lunch, then mosey over to Iolani Palace, an ornate American-Florentine confection that was built for Kamehameha III in the mid-19th century and remains the only official royal state residence in the United States. Wander the palace&rsquo;s ostentatious state rooms and cavernous halls, and don&rsquo;t miss the Coronation Pavilion, built in the grounds for the 1883 coronation of King Kalākaua and Queen Kapiolani. Entry to Iolani Palace is also included with a Go City Oahu attractions pass.</p>

<p><strong><u>Evening:</u></strong></p>

<p>Round off your day of immersion in Hawaiian history and tradition at a classic Polynesian luau. These extravagant shows include traditional music, Polynesian food, fire-dancing, hula lessons and more, all served up with a substantial helping of aloha spirit. Choose small family-run luaus for a more authentic experience, or go full bombast with one of the blockbuster shows like the Ka Moana luau (included with Go City), Hilton Hawaiian Village or Paradise Cove.</p>


<p><strong><u>Morning:</u></strong></p>

<p>Oahu&rsquo;s Windward Coast (east side) has some of the best beaches on the island, and the sands at Kualoa are among the very finest (in every sense of the word). There&rsquo;s a fee to access the beach, known as &lsquo;Secret Island&rsquo;, but you can also (of course) also get in with <a href="https://gocity.com/en/oahu" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank"><strong><u>a Go City Oahu pass</u></strong></a>. There&rsquo;s stacks to do here in this picture-perfect paradise: snorkel the crystal clear waters; join a beach ping-pong tournament; or kayak out to the conical volcanic marvel that is Mokoli&#39;i Island, aka the Chinaman&rsquo;s Hat. And if all that sounds a little too&hellip; strenuous, you&rsquo;ll be pleased to hear there are also plenty of hammocks slung between the swaying palms.</p>


Day 3: The Windward Coast

<p><strong><u>Afternoon:</u></strong></p>

<p>Mosey up into the Kualoa Ranch, where you can gorge on Aunty Pat&rsquo;s homestyle Hawaiian cooking before exploring the epic grounds on horseback. The timeless scenery here, all widescreen valleys and lush forested hills, is &ndash;&nbsp;perhaps unsurprisingly &ndash; something of a Hollywood star, having appeared in such blockbusters as <em>Jurassic Park</em>, <em>Godzilla</em> and, um, <em>George of the Jungle</em>. Afterwards, make for the nearby Polynesian Cultural Center to experience the Pacific Islands in microcosm by way of themed villages, traditional Polynesian food, and lessons in Samoan fire-knife-twirling and the Tongan art of seated dancing.</p>

<p><strong><u>Evening:&nbsp;</u></strong></p>

<p>Back to Honolulu for something a bit special. For the win: French fine dining and wondrous Diamond Head views at La Mer, or surf and turf served with 36th-floor panoramas at The Signature.</p>


<p><strong><u>Morning:</u></strong></p>

<p>If you only manage one hike while in Oahu, make it Diamond Head. Set at the east end of Waikiki Beach, this iconic volcanic crater makes for a surprisingly unchallenging morning excursion. <a href="https://gostateparks.hawaii.gov/diamondhead/about" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank"><u>Book one of the earliest slots</u></a> to dodge the crowds (and heat) and you&rsquo;ll be rewarded with sensational sunrise views during the ascent and far-reaching 360-degree panoramas of Waikiki, Honolulu and beyond from the forested summit, 760 feet up. Shuttle trips to/from the Diamond Head trail from any Waikiki hotel are included with the <a href="https://gocity.com/en/oahu" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank"><u>Go City Oahu attraction pass</u></a>.</p>


Day 4: Diamond Head and Hanauma Bay

<p><strong><u>Afternoon:</u></strong></p>

<p>For conservation reasons, <a href="https://pros8.hnl.info/hanauma-bay" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank"><u>you&rsquo;ll also need to book a slot</u></a> to get access to Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve. But boy is it worth it: golden sands, lush green hills, balmy turquoise waters and a kaleidoscope of marine life await. Bring a snorkel for close encounters with sea turtles, box jellyfish and all manner of colorful tangs, wrasses and butterflyfish. And keep your eyes peeled for Hawaii&rsquo;s official state fish: the stripy, snout-nosed reef triggerfish, aka the humuhumunukunukuapuaa. Try saying that after your second Mai Tai!</p>

<p><strong><u>Evening:</u></strong></p>

<p>Round off your 4-day Oahu experience by making more vacation memories with a sunset cruise on the bay. Expect warm ocean breezes accompanied by live Hawaiian music, a lavish dinner, and sweeping views of the Oahu skyline. Perfect, and utterly unforgettable.</p>


Waikiki Beach, Pearl Harbor, Hanauma Bay, Kualoa Ranch and the Polynesian Cultural Center are just some of the highlights of our 4-day Oahu itinerary.

4 Days in Oahu & Honolulu Itinerary for First Timers | Go City®

How does the Hawaiian island of Oahu celebrate Halloween? 

Just like the rest of the US (and beyond), of course! With plenty of spooky, pumpkin-filled activities. Here is our guide to the island's best Halloween hijinks.

Things to Do for Halloween in Oahu Hawaii

<p>Halloween in Hawaii is full of spooktacular fun, and the attractions below are popular events with locals and visitors alike. Keep in mind that a few of these can be scary, though, so exercise caution with taking children along. Let&#39;s get started on our top picks for things to do for Oahu around Halloween, including...</p>

<ul>
	<li>Hallowbaloo</li>
	<li>Aloun Farms Pumpkin Festival</li>
	<li>Oahu Ghost Tours</li>
	<li>Pumpkin Picking</li>
	<li>Haunted Plantation</li>
	<li>and more!</li>
</ul>

<h2><strong>Hallowbaloo: Costumes, music, food, arts, and craft beer festival</strong></h2>

<p><a href="https://hallowbaloo.com/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Hallowbaloo</a>&nbsp;is Oahu&#39;s Halloween street festival. There really is no other place to be when you&#39;re celebrating Spooky Season in Hawaii. You&#39;ll enjoy live entertainment, music, art, and food from popular local food trucks, and much more.</p>

<p>Hallowballoo is a local favorite and the event promises to give you all the Halloween vibes, so get in on the action and dust off your best costume. Make sure you get creative to try and win a large cash prize in the costume contest! What&#39;s more, there&#39;s a Craft Beer Festival with over 25 beers and seltzers to taste while roaming Oahu&#39;s spooky streets lined with costumed folk. What a treat!</p>

<h2><strong>Aloun Farms Pumpkin Festival</strong></h2>


<p><a href="https://www.alounfarms.com/">Aloun Farms</a>&nbsp;will be hosting its annual pumpkin-picking festival to bring Halloween spirit to this popular tropical island. This family favorite event is the real deal. From a pick-your-own-pumpkin excursion to hayrides and farm-style food, drink, and games, you&rsquo;ll feel like you stepped right into a New England pumpkin patch. There&#39;s something for everyone to enjoy, including pony rides, photo booths, and seasonal games.</p>

<p>The Pumpkin Festival is on for the final three weekends of October, and tickets can be purchased at the door.</p>


<h2><strong>Oahu Mystery Tour</strong></h2>

<p>Why are Hawaiian ghosts different from other ghosts? Well, for starters, they play a much bigger role in Polynesian culture than your average, run-of-the-mill poltergeist.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.mysteries-of-hawaii.com/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Mysteries of Hawaii</a>&nbsp;not only showcases local hauntings and creepy legends but also exposes you to some of the ceremonial events that Hawaiians use to interact with the supernatural. It&rsquo;s a truly different and special approach to the notion of Halloween; it&rsquo;s perhaps more educational than truly frightening.</p>

<p>Check out all the hauntings in Hawaii, whether it&#39;s along Waikiki Beach or in Honolulu, this native Hawaiian-owned ghost tour company has all bases covered with master storyteller, Lopaka Kapanui.</p>

<h2><strong>Pumpkin picking</strong></h2>


<p>Pick your pumpkins from a pre-cut patch, feed animals at the animal farm, take a cow train ride, play in the Lil&#39; Rascal Zone, or launch a pumpkin from the Pumpkin Cannon to get into a festive fall spirit. Located north and east of Honolulu, this farm is easy to reach with a car rental or&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/oahu/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/bike-rental-waikiki-hawaiian-style-rentals">even a moped ride</a>.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Getting In:&nbsp;</strong>Admission to the Waimanalo Farms Pumpkin Patch is free; pumpkins and activities priced separately.</p>

<p>Waimanalo Country Farms&#39; Fall Harvest Festival gives you the chance to pick your pumpkins from a pre-cut patch. Enjoy the fresh air as you pursue the perfect pumpkin and stroll through the sunflower fields. There&#39;s also a country market and food stand where you can purchase fresh produce, farm honey, and handmade gifts.</p>

<p>With plenty of other activities to get stuck into, such as a tractor hayride, animal visits, and the kids&#39; activity zone, this is the perfect Halloween activity.</p>


<h2><strong>Haunted Plantation</strong></h2>

<p><strong>94-695 Waipahu Street, Fridays &amp; Saturdays in October</strong>&nbsp;Located near what&rsquo;s purported to be a real haunted village in Waipahu, the Haunted Plantation is spooky enough to scare even the most die-hard Halloween fans.</p>

<p>As such, this is probably not suited for children of any age. Known as &ldquo;Hawaii&rsquo;s premier haunt,&rdquo; and one of America&#39;s top haunts, the Haunted Plantation provides tons of thrills and chills with over 50 actors in professional Hollywood-style horror makeup, plus terrifying backdrops and eerie sound effects. Expect to be chased and taunted by the spirits of Hawaii during your experience.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Getting In:</strong>&nbsp;Admission to the Haunted Plantation is separately ticketed. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/HauntedPlantation/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">attraction website</a>.</p>

<h2>Skeleton Key Hawaii</h2>

<p><strong>Select dates throughout October</strong>&nbsp;Visit this haunted house, designed by Halloween superfan actor Jorge Garcia (from&nbsp;<em>Lost&nbsp;</em>and&nbsp;<em>Hawaii Five-O</em>) and produced by Kevin Keaveney. You&#39;ll participate in an exciting excursion to raise the dead where you&#39;ll have to see if you can survive the mummy&#39;s curse.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Getting In:&nbsp;</strong>Admission to Skeleton Key Hawaii is separately ticketed. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.skeletonkeyhawaii.com/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">attraction website</a>.</p>

<h2>Hiking excursions</h2>


<h2>Happy Hawaiian Halloween!</h2>

<p>So there you have it. Our list of some seasonal things to do for Halloween in Oahu. We hope you enjoy spending Halloween on Oahu. Please note, some of the special Halloween events taking place at some of these attractions may be separately ticketed.</p>


<p>Fall is a lovely time to get outdoors in Oahu. There are plenty of beautiful scenic hikes to be found, from the mountains to the coastline and the lush forests. While it&#39;s still pretty hot at this time of year, it will be less crowded and you&#39;ll get a more secluded nature experience. If you&#39;re looking for a way to make it Halloween-specific, include a local pumpkin farm in your daily outing.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Getting In:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://gocity.com/oahu/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/makapuu-lighthouse-hike" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Makapu&#39;u Lighthouse Hike shuttle tickets</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/oahu/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/diamond-head-hike" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Diamond Head Hike shuttle tickets</a>&nbsp;are included on all Go City&reg; Oahu passes.</p>


<h2>Save on admission to top Oahu attractions with Go City&reg;&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Discover our full line-up&nbsp;of<a href="https://gocity.com/en/oahu/attractions/" target="_blank">&nbsp;Oahu</a><a href="https://gocity.com/en/oahu/attractions/">&nbsp;attractions</a>, including the Makapu&#39;u Lighthouse Tour, Polynesian Cultural Center, Ka Moana Luau at Aloha Tower, and more.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>🤩 &gt;&gt; If you want to see and do as much as you can, our <a href="https://gocity.com/en/oahu/passes/all-inclusive?duration=3" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">All-Inclusive Pass</a> is for you.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>😎 &gt;&gt; If you want to pick just a few attractions and visit at your own pace, our <a href="https://gocity.com/en/oahu/passes/explorer?duration=3" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Explorer Pass</a> is the perfect option.&nbsp;</p>


Check out these fun & festive things to do for Halloween in Oahu, Hawaii this year. Save on admission to top attractions with Go City.

Things to Do for Halloween in Hawaii on Oahu - Go City

We take a close-up look at two of Hawaii’s biggest and best cultural attractions: Ka Moana Luau and the Polynesian Cultural Center.

Immersing yourself in Hawaiian culture is all part of the joy of visiting Oahu. And what better way to experience the Pacific Islands in microcosm than at the Polynesian Cultural Center or Ka Moana Luau. But which is best? Read on for our comparison of these two popular Oahu attractions.

Ka Moana Luau vs Polynesian Cultural Center Comparison

<p><strong>Name.</strong> The clue&rsquo;s in the name at the Polynesian Cultural Center, which celebrates the cultures and traditions of the 1,000+ islands that make up Polynesia.</p>

<p><strong>Age.</strong> The park opened back in 1963.</p>

<p><strong>Location. </strong>Laie, in the northeast of the island, around an hour from downtown Honolulu.</p>

<p><strong>What to expect at the Polynesian Cultural Center.</strong> One of Oahu&rsquo;s most-visited attractions, the Polynesian Cultural Center is split into six villages, each representing a different Polynesian island nation. These are: Aotearoa, Fiji, Hawaii, Samoa, Tahiti and Tonga. The result, as you might imagine, is highly immersive; a sensory explosion of sights, sounds and smells from across the South Pacific. Here&rsquo;s your chance to get involved in hands-on activities and demonstrations, to learn about the various island customs and traditions and, perhaps best of all, to sample delicious Polynesian cooking. Fire-dancing, lei-making and live shows are all part of the entertainment here.</p>


Polynesian Cultural Center: The Lowdown

<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Size.</strong> 42 acres.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Attractions. </strong>Six themed villages representing different island nations, plus live shows, feasts, a canoe pageant, and other ticketed events.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Opening hours.</strong> The villages are open 12.30&ndash;5.30PM Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday, and the evening shows run until approximately 9PM.</li>
</ul>


Vital Statistics and Info

<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Island of Hawaii:</strong><strong> </strong>have a go at hula dancing, learn the art of lauhala-weaving, taste traditional Polynesian poi and test your skills with some ancient Hawaiian games.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Island of Aotearoa (New Zealand): </strong>experience the power of the Maori Haka dance, watch artisans carve traditional weapons, and learn about facial tattoos.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Island of Tahiti:</strong> visit a Tahitian temple, witness a traditional wedding ceremony, have a go at pole fishing and spear-throwing, and gorge yourself on fragrant coconut bread.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Island of Fiji:</strong> meet fearsome Fijian warriors, ink up with a temporary tattoo and find out how you can time travel on Fiji.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Island of Samoa:</strong> &ndash; watch nimble Samoan men scale 40-foot trees barefoot, learn how to twirl a fire knife, and crack coconuts open with a rock..</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Island of Tonga:</strong> try your hand at an ancient Tongan shuffleboard game o, test your spear-throwing skills, and learn how to dance sitting down.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Luau buffet:</strong> tuck into an authentic Polynesian buffet accompanied by live music and dance.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>HĀ: Breath of Life show:</strong> a Pacific island saga of birth, death, love and family, featuring over 100 Polynesian performers, and eye-popping special effects.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Huki canoe experience: </strong>daily lagoon show featuring double-hulled canoes and dozens of dancers, singers, and island natives.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>


Polynesian Cultural Center Highlights

<p><strong>Name.</strong> Ka Moana means &lsquo;the ocean&rsquo; and this luau is designed to take audience members on a voyage around the South Pacific.</p>

<p><strong>Location. </strong>The iconic Aloha Tower, a decommissioned art-deco lighthouse on Honolulu&rsquo;s waterfront.</p>

<p><strong>What to expect at the Ka Moana Luau.</strong> What the Ka Moana Luau lacks in themed villages, it more than makes up for with its bombastic luau, a veritable extravaganza of Polynesian dance, music and fabulous pyrotechnics. The luau tells the story of a voyage across Ka Moana (that&rsquo;s the ocean to you and me), taking in the traditional chants, dances and songs from several Polynesian islands along the way. There&rsquo;s also a lavish dinner buffet and several pre-show activities to take part in, including lei-making, temporary Polynesian tattoos, hula lessons, coconut headband-weaving and ukulele lessons.</p>


Ka Moana Luau: The Lowdown

<p><strong>Size. </strong>Ka Moana Luau seats around 400-500 guests across three ascending price tiers: Classic, Moana Splash and Celebrity. Celebrity has the best seats and includes table service, a complimentary Mai Tai cocktail and a fresh flower lei (upgraded from the shell lei that&#39;s included with Classic and Splash tickets).</p>

<p><strong>Show length. </strong>Approximately 2.5 hours.</p>

<p><strong>Opening hours. </strong>Check-in from 4.30PM daily, except Saturdays. The show starts at 5.30PM.</p>


<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Everyone is greeted with a shell lei garland on arrival (or a fresh flower lei for&nbsp;Celebrity seat holders).</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Brace yourself for pyrotechnics in the Samoan fire-knife performance.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Just try to stop your toes from tapping as the fast-paced Tahitian dance gets underway.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Swing your hips at a traditional hula lesson and go full immersion mode with a (temporary) Polynesian tattoo.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">The lavish buffet caters for all tastes with its wide range of traditional Polynesian dishes. Try specialities including macadamia-nut mahi-mahi, smoky kalua pork and fruity guava butter.</li>
</ul>


Ka Moana Luau Highlights

<p>No doubt about it: the Polynesian Cultural Center is the more immersive experience, with significant emphasis placed on the cultural events and activities of the six themed villages. General admission gets you access to all of this, but you&rsquo;ll need separate tickets for the evening buffet and luau show. Ka Moana Luau, meanwhile, is pure, unabashed entertainment: dinner and a show, basically.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It&rsquo;s definitely worth doing both attractions if you&rsquo;re in Oahu for a few days. And, as luck would have it, you can do precisely that with the <a href="https://gocity.com/en/oahu/passes" target="_blank"><strong>All-Inclusive Oahu attractions pass from Go City</strong></a>. As well as Ka Moana Luau and the Polynesian Cultural Center, the pass includes a luxury catamaran cruise, Pearl Harbor attractions, island tours, surfboard rental, and much more, and could <strong>save you up to 50%</strong> on Oahu activities, tours and attractions. Find out more and pick your All-Inclusive Oahu pass by clicking on the options below&hellip;</p>


Ka Moana Luau vs the Polynesian Cultural Center: Which is Better?

Our expert guide to two of Oahu’s most popular attractions: the Polynesian Cultural Center and Ka Moana Luau.

Ka Moana Luau vs Polynesian Cultural Center Comparison | Go City®

Go Oahu pass Review - My Wonderful 5 Days in Hawaii

<p><em>This Go Oahu Card review was submitted by Lisabeth F, as part of our&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/blog/blog-ambassador/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Blog Ambassador Program</a>&nbsp;- a fun way to visit top Oahu attractions for free, share your experience, and be featured on our blog.</em>&nbsp;[clear-line] I used the&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/oahu/en-us" rel="noopener" target="_blank">5-day all-inclusive Go Oahu Card</a>&nbsp;to create a relaxing, stimulating, and exciting vacation itinerary that allowed me to experience some of the best that Oahu has to offer. Some of the activities I enjoyed are exclusive to Hawaii, and the trip was even better than I had imagined! The Go Oahu card made planning and getting passes to the attractions a breeze, and I saved plenty of money if I were to purchase admission to each individually.</p>

<h2>My 5-Day Go Oahu Vacation and Itinerary</h2>

<p>I planned my 5-day Oahu vacation and itinerary to make the most out of the many different kinds of attractions and activities that Honolulu and the nearby areas has to offer. By scheduling a mix of relaxation, excitement, and historical tours, I was able to get a true taste of tropical Hawaiian adventure, aloha, and history. Convenient, practical, and budget-saving, the all-inclusive pass made my itinerary super easy to plan and follow. I never had a problem using the pass, and I received wonderful treatment wherever I went. I flew into Honolulu in the afternoon, picked up my rental car, and headed to my hotel in Waikiki. You don&rsquo;t necessarily need a car to follow my particular itinerary, but traveling to and from the attractions takes about half the time with one. I scheduled my 5-day itinerary to include...</p>

<ul>
	<li>a sunny, relaxing Makani Catamaran Sail</li>
	<li>a fun-filled Dolphin Encounter at Sea Life Park</li>
	<li>the informational and leisurely Pearl Harbor Historical City Tour</li>
	<li>and an emotional and insightful visit to three Pearl Harbor memorials- USS&nbsp;<em>Arizona</em>, USS&nbsp;<em>Bowfin</em>, and USS&nbsp;<em>Missouri</em></li>
</ul>

<p>Take a virtual mini-tour with me, and I&rsquo;ll tell you all about it.</p>


<p>I wanted my first full day on Oahu to be relaxing, sun-soaked, and bubbly, so I had booked the &ldquo;Fun in the Sun&rdquo;&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/oahu/en-us/attractions/makani-catamaran-sail" rel="noopener" target="_blank">afternoon Makani Catamaran sail</a>. As soon as I boarded the Makani I felt completely safe, relaxed, and happy. The ship was clean, the crew was entertaining, and the cocktails were delicious.</p>

<p>The wide-bodied catamaran is perfect for just about everyone - couples, families, groups of friends, young and old alike. There was even a baby on board, kids love the two woven trampoline-like seating areas in the front of the boat, and there is a smoking section for adults at the rear. The Makani&rsquo;s crew took us to a reef that was teeming with tropical fish and sea turtles, and there were huge humpback whales splashing and blowing nearby. The water was crystal clear, the waves were smallish, and the sun was shining down on it all. It was a perfect start to a wonderful week.</p>


Makani Catamaran Sail

<p>On day 2 I was ready for more action - so I&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/oahu/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/dolphin-encounter-sea-life-park" rel="noopener" target="_blank">booked the Dolphin Encounter at Sea Life Park</a>, which was the Premium Attraction that I had selected with my Go Oahu Card. I had seen some of the park in the Adam Sandler/Drew Barrymore flick &ldquo;50 First Dates,&rdquo; and the park did not disappoint. The 1:45 pm show is included as an option with the Go Oahu Card, which allowed me time to grab a bite to eat at one of the food counters in the cafeteria and explore the rest of the park. The inhabitants of this park are mainly injured wildlife brought here for rehabilitation and their offspring. Sea Lions, monk seals, and Humboldt penguins are just some of the wildlife protected at Sea Life Park.</p>

<p>At 1:45 pm I checked in at the gift shop. After being given instructions and rules of engagement by our enthusiastic dolphin trainer, we entered the cool, salty water and made friends with &ldquo;our&rdquo; dolphin. The enchanting, well-trained, super-smart dolphin interacted with us as a group, and each guest got some one-on-one time with her - a dance, a kiss, and a big splash! All of the dolphins seemed happy and healthy, including a wolphin- the first and only whale/dolphin mix ever known to exist. After leaving the lagoon, I showered, changed into dry clothes, and explored a little more of the park as I waited for the film to be developed before going back to the gift shop to purchase my photo souvenirs.</p>


Dolphin Encounter at Sea Life Park

<h2>Pearl Harbor Memorials</h2>

<p>Day 3 brought an early breakfast and a trip out to Pearl Harbor to relive a day of infamy in Hawaiian and American history. The World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument includes the<a href="https://gocity.com/oahu/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/uss-arizona-memorial-narrated-tour-pearl-harbor" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><strong>&nbsp;USS Arizona Memorial</strong></a>, the&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/oahu/en-us/attractions/uss-bowfin-submarine-pearl-harbor" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><strong>USS Bowfin Submarine</strong></a>, and the&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/oahu/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/battleship-missouri-memorial-pearl-harbor" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><strong>USS Missouri</strong></a>. I knew a visit to the USS Arizona Memorial was included with the Pearl Harbor Historical City Tour, so I saved that for the following day, and took self-guided tours of the USS Bowfin and the USS Missouri. I didn&rsquo;t need to make reservations for either tour, and instead of exploring them on separate days I toured both ships while I was there.</p>


<p>The USS<em>&nbsp;Bowfin</em>&nbsp;is one of only 15 surviving World War II submarines, and the digital audio tour details the inner workings and voyages of the&nbsp;<em>Bowfin</em>, along with narratives by the former crew. It was very enlightening to see for myself how the crew lived and served in such cramped quarters. There&rsquo;s even a special audio tour for kids that makes it more understandable for them.</p>


USS Bowfin Submarine

<p>The USS&nbsp;<em>Missouri</em>&nbsp;is a behemoth of a battleship, a surviving, completely refurbished twin to the USS&nbsp;<em>Arizona</em>. There are 3 audio tours to choose from that take you on different routes through this sleeping giant and up to the Surrender Deck, where the Japanese Empire officially surrendered to the United States, ending World War II. Being on this ship was awe-inspiring and gave me a feel for what I was about to experience the following day.</p>


Battleship Missouri

<h2>Pearl Harbor Historical City Tour</h2>

<p>The&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/oahu/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/pearl-harbor-historic-city-tour" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Pearl Harbor Tour</a>&nbsp;was a perfect way to wrap up my planned itinerary. I had to be at my pick-up location at 8:30, so I grabbed a quick breakfast at the hotel buffet and was on my way. The driver was knowledgeable, friendly, honest, and forthright. I have to say, this was the real deal, with inside information you wouldn&rsquo;t normally hear from a corporate tour guide, along with all the standard historical facts. The bus was comfortable, quiet, and smooth.</p>


<p>Our first stop was the USS&nbsp;<em>Arizona Memorial</em>. I was prepared for a poignant moment at the memorial, but the 25 minute documentary shown prior to the actual memorial visit brought the whole attack to life for everyone in the theater. Every face was somber, and some were teary-eyed, as we boarded the Navy shuttle to the memorial out in the shallow harbor, glistening white in the sun. We filed into the memorial itself in quiet contemplation to honor those poor lost souls who had served their country and paid the ultimate sacrifice for our safe-keeping.</p>

<p>As I gazed into the clear, greenish water, I noticed two things beyond the rusted steel of the&nbsp;<em>Arizona</em>&rsquo;s body itself:</p>

<ol>
	<li>the colorful reef fish who had brought their own kind of life back to this location and made it home.</li>
	<li>and the oil pooling on the surface above the sunken ship, still bleeding out of her hull.</li>
</ol>


USS Arizona Memorial

<h2>More Stops Around Honolulu</h2>

<p>Fittingly, the next stop on the tour was Punchbowl Cemetery, where generations of military members rest in peace on the heights above Honolulu. From there, we went past most of the more well-known landmarks of Honolulu, including Hawaiian palaces, government centers, and the Eternal Flame War Memorial before returning to our relative destinations around 3:00 pm.</p>

<h2>The Flexibility of the Go Oahu Card</h2>

<p>I chose to leave day 5 wide open for a little flexibility in my itinerary and whatever I felt like doing that day There are many different options to choose from, so it&rsquo;s all up to you how you spend your time, but no matter what you do the Go Oahu card makes it well worth it.</p>

<h2>My Tips for Planning Your Itinerary Using a Go Oahu Card</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Accessing the pass onto your smartphone makes getting into the attractions easy, and will ensure you always have your passes with you.</li>
	<li>Many of the attractions require reservations, so call ahead of time to book your slot.</li>
	<li>When making reservations, make sure you are prepared to give the number of persons in your party, mention any children and their ages, and have your Go Oahu pass numbers for all members of your party handy.</li>
	<li>Browse each attraction&rsquo;s website beforehand to familiarize yourself with the attraction and any rules and recommendations.</li>
	<li>Give yourself more time than you think you need to visit each attraction. There are often more activities nearby or within the attraction you&rsquo;ll want to explore.</li>
	<li>Plan on getting something to eat or drink nearby before or after each attraction. Activities make you hungry!</li>
</ul>

<p>I hope my Go Oahu Card review helps convince you that the pass is well worth it! The savings alone are reason enough to purchase the pass, but I specifically liked the ease of use from my iPhone. And, since so many attractions are already included on the pass, I really enjoyed the freedom to do, or not do, the attractions that are available to visit.</p>


My review of the 5-Day All Inclusive Go Oahu pass. I saved more than $100 on a bunch of top Oahu attractions. I'll tell you all about it here.

Go Oahu pass Review - is it worth it? My wonderful 5 Days in Hawaii

Sun-drenched sands, sightseeing tours, snorkeling adventures and spa days: all the best things to do solo in Oahu and Honolulu.

Solo travel has boomed in recent years. And why not? It’s a great way to meet like-minded travelers or, if you prefer (as a growing number of people do), to spend time soaking up a new country’s culture at your own pace, sip sunset cocktails solo, and splay out on golden sands with nothing and no-one to worry about but yourself. What could be more perfect?

Things to do Alone in Oahu and Honolulu

<p>The Hawaiian island of Oahu and its capital Honolulu is as good a place to plan a solo vacation as any, thanks to its multitude of beauty spots, activities and relaxation opportunities, from soaring volcanic peaks to cute sandy coves, and traditional fire-dancing shows to cool catamaran cruises. Pack your bags and get ready for a solo adventure par excellence as we check out the best things to do alone in Oahu and Honolulu, including:</p>

<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Hiking Diamond Head</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Snorkeling Hanauma Bay</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Exploring the Waikea Valley</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Experiencing a traditional luau</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Visiting Pearl Harbor and Iolani Palace</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Beach bumming at Waikiki and Lanikai</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Surfing! Fire-dancing! Sunset yoga!</li>
</ul>


<p>Let&rsquo;s be honest: solo traveler or not, you can&rsquo;t go to Hawaii and *not* spend at least some of your vacation spreadeagled on sunkissed sands, electric fan in one hand, mai tai in the other, a heady whiff of factor 50 drifting on the warm tropical breeze. There&rsquo;s over 100 miles of pristine Oahu coastline to choose from, with most opting for tourism hotspots like Waikiki, Lanikai, Kailua and the North Shore. Waikiki Beach has it all: golden sands, rolling surf, hip tiki bars and, of course, those swoonsome views of Diamond Head. Feel the warm powdery sand between your toes and cool off with a refreshing shave ice. Heck, you can even try your hand at surfing, should the mood take you &ndash; <a href="https://gocity.com/en/oahu" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank"><strong><u>board hire is included with a Go Oahu pass.</u></strong></a> Don&rsquo;t miss the chance to hit up island institution Duke&rsquo;s at golden hour for some of the best sundowners (and sunsets) in town.</p>


Peachy Beaches

<p>Taster tours of the island&rsquo;s highlights are a great way to get a real flavor of Hawaii &ndash; with absolutely minimal effort on your part. They&rsquo;re also a fine way for solo travelers to meet people and make new friends. Or y&rsquo;know, just keep yourself to yourself if that&rsquo;s your vibe. You could, for example, visit the famous North Shore Dole plantation for a summery taste of honey-sweet pineapple, visit Honolulu highlights like Pearl Harbor and the opulent Iolani Palace, or come over all Tarzan (or Jane) on a jungle adventure through Oahu&rsquo;s lush rainforests. Some of the very best tours visit &lsquo;hidden gems&rsquo; &ndash; tranquil temples, glorious gardens and epic natural blowholes. Or go full relaxation mode on a decadent catamaran cruise of the coast, exploring secluded bays and snorkeling hotspots like Shark Cove and Turtle Canyon along the way. You can book island tours with your Oahu pass from Go City, which can <strong>save you up to 50%</strong> on top Hawaii attractions, tours and activities.<strong> </strong><a href="https://gocity.com/en/oahu" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank"><strong><u>Find out more and choose your Oahu pass here.</u></strong></a></p>


Oahu's Hottest Tours

<p>Experiencing a traditional luau show is practically a rite of passage when visiting Hawaii. Featuring live music, fire-dancing and great Polynesian feasts, these lavish ceremonies are at their most impressively bombastic in the major resorts, but you can get closer to the real thing at more intimate, family-run events. A visit to the Polynesian Cultural Center also includes the traditional luau, as well as the opportunity to get hands-on with Pacific Island traditions. We&rsquo;re talking hula and lei-making classes, munching aromatic Tahitian coconut bread, learning the Samoan art of knife-twirling and dancing like a Tongan. Entry to the Polynesian Cultural Center is also included with the <a href="https://gocity.com/en/oahu/" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank"><u>Go Oahu pass</u></a>, along with many more fun cultural activities and classes.</p>


Immerse Yourself in Local Tradition

<p>Make friends of the non-human variety on a solo snorkeling day in and around pristine Hanauma Bay, a protected marine ecosystem that&rsquo;s home to more than 400 species. Critters you might expect to encounter on a casual snorkel of these gin-clear waters include box jellyfish, green sea turtles, ornately patterned butterflyfish, colorful tangs and wrasses, and the national fish of Hawaii &ndash; say it with us &ndash; the &lsquo;humuhumunukunukuapuaa&rsquo; (or reef triggerfish, if you insist). Flanked by soft white sands and sheltered by velvety green hills, Hanauma is an Insta addict&rsquo;s paradise. Bring a waterproof camera for the win, but don&rsquo;t forget to <a href="https://pros8.hnl.info/hanauma-bay" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank"><u>book your place here in advance</u></a>: daily visitor numbers are carefully controlled in order to protect this natural beauty spot and its many inhabitants.</p>


Snorkel Hanauma Bay

<p>There are hundreds of insanely good hiking opportunities in the Hawaiian islands, and Oahu boasts some of the very best. Botany buffs will find much to enjoy in Waimea Valley: nearly 2,000 acres of picture-perfect parkland, complete with a vast botanical garden and glorious waterfalls. Enjoy some alone time among the delicate hibiscus and gnarly cacti (plus several thousand more species of plants and flowers!), and freshen up with a dip at Waimea Falls. Then there&rsquo;s Diamond Head &ndash; *the* essential Oahu hike. If you only do one, make it this one. As with Hanauma, you&rsquo;ll need to <a href="https://gostateparks.hawaii.gov/diamondhead/about" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank"><u>book a slot in advance</u></a> but, boy, is it worth it. Go at sunrise or sunset for some of the most memorable views across the crater&rsquo;s 3,500-foot diameter to Honolulu, Waikiki Beach and beyond. Visiting between December and May? Take a decent set of binoculars on your Diamond Head hike and you might even spot a migrating humpback whale cruising the coastline far below.</p>


Take a Hike!

<p>There&rsquo;s really no end to the things you can do alone in Oahu and Honolulu. Treat yourself to a traditional Polynesian lomilomi massage or seaweed bath at one of the island&rsquo;s many excellent spas; grab your yoga mat and hit the beach for some serious sunset meditation; paddleboard the tranquil waters; stuff your face with shave ice; doze in a hammock (always with a pina colada just within reach); sample the lively Oahu nightlife in Kaka&rsquo;ako&rsquo;s cool dive bars, Honolulu&rsquo;s hottest cocktail joints, and the Hawaii outpost of NYC&rsquo;s legendary Blue Note for some of the best live entertainment on the island. And, best of all, there&rsquo;ll be no nagging voice in your ear wondering aloud whether they turned the cooker off before they left home...</p>


Be Good to Yourself

Going it alone on Oahu? Check out our guide to all the best solo adventures, from exhilarating mountain hikes to lazy days at the beach and in the spa.

Things to do Alone in Oahu and Honolulu | Go City®

Discover Uncle Zach's heartwarming journey to create cherished family memories in Oahu and find out how you can have your own dream getaway.

This year we want to top up YOUR summer vacation!

Go City Giveaway - Summer Top Up!

Check out Uncle Zach's top attraction picks...

<p>This summer, we&rsquo;re all about making epic memories. Every two weeks until September 22nd, we&rsquo;re giving away up to six passes &ndash; perfect for you and your top travel crew to turn those dream trips into reality.</p>

<p>Whether you&#39;re dreaming of chateaux-hopping in Paris,&nbsp; history-hunting in London or desperate to tick off your New York bucket list, we want to help.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With us, you&rsquo;re not just visiting a place; you&rsquo;re truly experiencing it. From iconic landmarks to those hidden local treasures, our passes let you dive deep into the heart of your destination. Whether you&rsquo;re plotting the ultimate family getaway or gathering your friends for that once-in-a-lifetime adventure, we&rsquo;ve got what you need to make it happen.</p>

<p>So, are you ready to chase the thrill of new experiences? Join us on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/gocity?igsh=dTVidzhkajVnYnFs" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, @gocity to enter via our Pinned post to win your pass to unforgettable adventures!</p>


<p><strong>Meet Uncle Zach &ndash; the man behind TikTok&#39;s favorite family vacation</strong></p>

<p>Uncle Zach, a Hawaii-based RAF veteran, is the kind of guy who turns dreams into reality. After the devastating loss of a loved one, Zach Baumann, affectionately known as Uncle Zach, had one heartfelt wish: to bring his nieces to Hawaii for an unforgettable family adventure, creating memories that would last a lifetime. When he shared his story on TikTok, the internet responded with overwhelming support, and that dream quickly became a beautiful reality.</p>

<p>At Go City, we couldn&rsquo;t resist being part of Uncle Zach&rsquo;s Big Island Adventure. It was the perfect way to kick off our <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C9aDo4eNdFs/">Go City Summer Top-Up campaign</a> &ndash; by helping a family experience the best of Oahu. We gifted them free <a href="https://gocity.com/en/oahu">Oahu passes</a>, making sure they could easily access all their must-see attractions and enjoy a stress-free trip.</p>


<p>Uncle Zach and his family had an incredible time exploring Oahu with just one pass each &ndash; and you could too! Imagine ticking off all your must-see spots with ease, just like they did.&nbsp;</p>

<p>We&rsquo;re giving away up to six free passes to help you make the most of your summer adventures. Head over to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/gocity?igsh=dTVidzhkajVnYnFs">our Instagram</a> for a chance to win and start planning your dream trip!</p>


Want to be our next Summer Top-Up winner?

<p><strong>Makani Catamaran Sail</strong> &ndash; Zach and his nieces enjoyed a breezy adventure, complete with stunning ocean views, vibrant marine life, and the thrill of gliding across the waves.</p>

<p><strong>Polynesian Cultural Center</strong> &ndash; next up they visited the Polynesian Cultural Center, where they discovered the rich traditions of the Pacific, and enjoyed captivating performances and hands-on cultural activities.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Aloha Tower - Ka Moana Luau </strong>&ndash; finally they got to experience the true spirit of Aloha with an evening of delicious authentic island cuisine and&nbsp;mesmerizing hula dances.</p>


Here's what they got up to...

<p>With&nbsp;our passes, Uncle Zach and his family didn&rsquo;t just visit Oahu &ndash; they truly experienced it.&nbsp;We made it easy for them to explore, connect, and create those cherished memories.&nbsp;And now, we want to do the same for you!</p>


Check out Uncle Zach's Big Island Adventure, supported by the Go City® Summer Top-Up Giveaway! 

Summer Top Up Giveaway | Go City®

Things to keep young adults entertained on that Hawaiian holiday

Oahu is a dream destination for the whole family. This island is bound to put a smile on your teenager's face - here's why.

Things to Do in Oahu with Teens During Your Hawaiian Vacation

<p>Family vacations are the best &ndash; the fun, the food, the memories, you name it. But how do you make that perfect trip happen when your teen just isn&rsquo;t feeling it? By choosing attractions that are teen-tested and teen-approved, of course! If you&rsquo;re looking for things to do in Oahu with teens, check out our list of the top attractions and activities, including...</p>

<ul>
	<li>Wet &#39;n Wild Hawaii</li>
	<li>Dolphin Encounter by Sea Life Park</li>
	<li>Snorkel at Hanauma Bay</li>
	<li>Rainforest, Waterfalls, and Movie Sites Hike</li>
	<li>Oahu Secret Island Beach at Kualoa Ranch</li>
	<li>Pearl Harbor</li>
	<li>Authentic Luau</li>
	<li>Polynesian Culture Center</li>
</ul>

<h2>Splash the day away at a water park</h2>


<p>If it seems a little odd to visit a water park when you&rsquo;re on a tropical island, you haven&rsquo;t been to&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/oahu/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/wet-n-wild-hawaii" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Wet n&rsquo; Wild Hawaii</a>.</p>

<p>This is an amazing water park with dozens of great rides and slides &ndash; all that adrenaline-packed adventure your teens are craving. A visit here is a great complement to the more relaxed ocean swimming or leisurely sunbathing you&#39;ll all be doing on Oahu. Now included with your admission is all-day body boarding, which is sure to excite your teens!</p>


<h2>Meet the animals at Sea Life Park</h2>


<p>If your teen is an animal lover, then&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/oahu/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/sea-life-park-hawaii" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Sea Life Park</a>&nbsp;is a must-visit destination for you and your family. See all your favorite sea creatures up close, from sleek rays to playful dolphins. Animal performances combine education and excitement and are sure to delight everyone. You can even opt for a rare chance to meet a dolphin up close with the bonus dolphin encounter. It&#39;s a special opportunity they&#39;ll remember forever.</p>


<h2>Snorkel the Pacific</h2>

<p>There are few things as cool on a Hawaiian vacation as snorkeling. It&rsquo;s tons of fun, it doesn&rsquo;t require a lot of training to do, and is immediately rewarding &ndash; factors we&rsquo;re sure teens will appreciate.</p>

<p>It&rsquo;s more importantly a great way to see the vibrant sea life in the waters surrounding Oahu, from tropical fish to lush coral reefs. Head to the Windward or the <a href="https://gocity.com/en/oahu/attractions/snorkel-rental-north-shore" target="_blank">North Shore</a> for&nbsp;beautiful waters and striking sea creatures.</p>

<h2>Enjoy the great outdoors</h2>


<p>We know you came to Hawaii to enjoy the natural splendor and beauty of this tropical island. Even your teens can get into exploring the many wonders of Oahu, from lush waterfalls and jungles to wide-open sandy beaches.</p>

<p>A particularly attractive tour for teens is a&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/oahu/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/rainforest-waterfalls-and-movie-sites-hike" rel="noopener" target="_blank">movie sites tour</a>, which highlights filming locations from popular teen franchises like the&nbsp;<em>Hunger Games</em>. If they&rsquo;re the active type, then a scenic hike is a good activity. Choose from a historic&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/oahu/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/makapuu-lighthouse-hike" rel="noopener" target="_blank">lighthouse hike</a>, a&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/oahu/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/diamond-head-hike" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Diamond Head hike</a>, or several other great options.</p>

<p>Or, if your teens prefer to be a bit more low-key outdoors, then a visit to&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/oahu/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/secret-island-beach-kualoa-ranch" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Secret Island Beach</a>&nbsp;is a perfect solution. Sunbathe, swim, and maybe play a little beach volleyball.</p>


<p>While we admit that not all teens will find Pearl Harbor interesting, lots will enjoy the engaging and poignant exhibits available at the Pearl Harbor Historic Sites.&nbsp;From the famed&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/oahu/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/battleship-missouri-memorial-pearl-harbor" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Battleship Missouri</a>&nbsp;to the&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/oahu/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/uss-arizona-memorial-narrated-tour-pearl-harbor" rel="noopener" target="_blank">USS Arizona tour</a>, there&rsquo;s certainly a lot to see. The interactive narration at many of the sites will help to get skeptical teens on board. A trip here will bring all that Pearl Harbor and World War II history they&#39;ve been learning in school to life.&nbsp;</p>


<h2>Experience an authentic Luau</h2>

<p>Hawaiian culture is a delight; teens will relish the chance to sample local cuisine and enjoy indigenous music and dance. Opt for an authentic Luau experience with the <a href="https://gocity.com/oahu/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/ka-moana-sea-life-park" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Ka Moana Luau at Aloha Towe</a>r.</p>

<p>Enjoy an amazing night of authentic Polynesian culture, where you and your teens can take part in activities such as lei-making and hula lessons. Just be sure not to bring out those embarrassing dad-dancing moves! The Luau will feature an inspiring and exhilarating dinner show. Plus, there will be plenty of delicious traditional Hawaiian cuisine, which is sure to please even picky eaters with its variety.</p>

<h2>Polynesian Cultural Center</h2>


<h2>Save up to 50% on Oahu attractions&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Discover our <a href="https://gocity.com/en/oahu/attractions/" target="_blank">full line-up</a> of Orlando attractions from the Diamond Head Hike to Wet &#39;n&#39; Wild Hawaii.</p>

<p>🤩 &gt;&gt; If you want to see and do as much as you can, our <a href="https://gocity.com/en/oahu/passes?duration=3" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank"> All-Inclusive Pass</a> is for you.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>😎 &gt;&gt; If you want to pick just a few attractions and visit at your own pace, our <a href="https://gocity.com/en/oahu/passes/explorer?duration=3" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Explorer Pass</a> is the perfect option.&nbsp;</p>


<p>One final suggestion for a place to go with teens: the Polynesian Cultural Center. This fun and festive park showcases multiple different Polynesian cultures over a lush 42-acre complex. You&#39;ll get to see indigenous fire dances, learn how to husk a coconut, watch trained professionals throw a spear, and more. Be sure to sample all the local fare in the Hukilau Marketplace to get a true taste of Polynesia.</p>


Check out our favorite things to do in Oahu with teens. Save on admission to many of these popular attractions that are fun for teenagers.

Things to Do in Oahu with Teens - Go City

Check out these after-dark activities and attractions in Oahu!

From traditional Hawaiian luau shows, to twilight zoo tours and the best mai tai cocktails in town, we've found the best things to do in Oahu when the sun goes down!

Things to do in Oahu at Night Time

<p>Nicknamed &lsquo;the gathering place&rsquo;, Oahu is hands-down the most popular island in the Aloha State, pulling in something like five million annual visitors thanks to bucket-list attractions like Waikiki Beach, Pearl Harbor, Halona Blowhole, the Dole pineapple plantation and the epic Diamond Head crater. There&rsquo;s bags of fun to be had in the sun here, and perhaps even more in the evening, when dazzling tropical sunsets herald thrilling after-dark activities that include traditional luau shows, bar-hopping, dinner cruises and night dives, though not necessarily all at the same time! Read on for our guide to all the best things to do in Oahu at night time&hellip;</p>

<h2>Give your Insta a Glow Up</h2>


<p>Oahu sunsets are among the most spectacular in the world, all deep burnished coppers, bronzes, golds and rust-reds. Be the envy of your friends back home by filling your IG to the brim with dusky snaps nabbed on a photo tour of Oahu&rsquo;s glorious coastline. Most guided tours will include stops for photo opps at must-see Oahu hotspots including Hanauma Bay, Makapu&rsquo;u Lookout and Halona Blowhole, and many will even come with expert guides who can tutor you in capturing the most Insta-worthy shots on your phone as the sun sets over the Pacific.</p>

<h2>Sip a Sunset Mai Tai at Duke&rsquo;s</h2>


<p>Honolulu Zoo is Oahu&rsquo;s premier family attraction. First opened way back in 1877 (ostensibly to house King David Kalakaua&rsquo;s bird collection), it&rsquo;s now home to well over 1,000 critters and is the only zoo within about 2,400 miles (the next nearest being in California!). Take the kids on a fun twilight tour of the enclosures on Saturday evenings, when the daytime shift is winding down and the creatures of the night are just waking up. Expect to meet ferociously cute fennec foxes, majestic black rhinos, fearsome Burmese pythons, sleepy Aldabra giant tortoises and more on this two-hour guided adventure.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Sunset Dinner Cruise</h2>


<p>Live Hawaiian music and dancing, sensational views of the Oahu skyline and Diamond Head crater, and a lavish dinner of steak and seafood: a sunset cruise is one of the most pleasant starts to a great night out in Oahu. Sip colorful tropical cocktails on deck as your vessel bobs gently in balmy ocean breezes, with those technicolor evening skies providing the picture-perfect backdrop. Friday night cruisers will also catch the weekly fireworks display on the shore at Waikiki Beach.</p>

<h2>Can&rsquo;t Fight the Moonlight</h2>


<p>Oahu&rsquo;s monthly full moon creates ideal conditions for night hikes, its startlingly bright glow bathing the island&rsquo;s hills and valleys in buttery yellow light. Find a local guide who can take you on an after-dark adventure along the windward coast to the gleaming white beacon that is Makapu&rsquo;u Lighthouse, with stunning moonlit views of Koko Head and the shimmering Pacific Ocean along the way. Or tackle Diamond Head itself, and gaze back down at the twinkling lights of Honolulu from the rim of its beautifully forested crater. For a truly memorable Oahu experience, join the monthly moonlight tour at the botanical garden in Waimea Valley, when a specialist guide walks you through flourishing tropical gardens to the crashing waterfall. Magical.</p>

<h2>Deep Deep Down</h2>


<p>Certified divers, rejoice! Night dives in Oahu&rsquo;s gin-clear waters are extremely popular, and give you the opportunity to spot reef sharks, Hawaiian green sea turtles, yellow tangs and eagle rays gliding among the coral reefs. Dive during the winter season and you might even be lucky enough to get close to a migrating humpback whale or two, their majesty undimmed in the underwater gloom.</p>

<h2>Sample the Oahu Nightlife&nbsp;</h2>


<p>There&rsquo;s so much going on at night in Oahu that it&rsquo;s difficult to know where to start. Hit up the tiki bars in Waikiki for sundowners and snacks, or check out the hipper-than-thou enclave of nearby Kaka&rsquo;ako, with its colorful street art and lively dive bars (keep eyes peeled too for cool gallery lates and other arty events here). The Hawaii outpost of NYC&rsquo;s legendary Blue Note brings live jazz and blues to the Outrigger resort nightly, while catching the awesome Rock-A -Hula show at the Royal Hawaiian Center is practically a rite of passage for Oahu vacationers.</p>

<h2>Save on activities and attractions in Oahu</h2>

<p>Save on admission to Oahu attractions with <a href="https://gocity.com/en/oahu" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Go City</a>. Check out @GoCity on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/gocity/" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Instagram</a> for the latest top tips and attraction info.</p>


<p>With its citrusy blend of lime, sweet orgeat syrup, orange cura&ccedil;ao and mule&rsquo;s kick of rum, the Mai Tai is a Hawaii must-try. The unofficial state drink is ubiquitous in the bars and resorts of Waikiki Beach. So hit up the legendary Duke&rsquo;s for some of the best sundowners in town, accompanied by unparalleled views of Diamond Head and the bay. Booking is recommended!</p>

<h2>Take in a Traditional Luau</h2>


<p>Another popular night time activity in Oahu is the traditional Polynesian luau. You&rsquo;ll see these vibrant shows advertised everywhere, with mega-resorts like Diamond Cove hosting the most lavish. These resort show are undoubtedly great for those with big families and deep pockets but can be a little OTT. For something a little less bombastic and a lot more authentic, seek out a family-run luau, where music, dancing, dinner, colorful costumes and aloha spirit take center stage. You&rsquo;re also far more likely to get a chance to actively participate in the fun, making you feel like, well, a part of the family.</p>

<h2>Kalakaua Avenue Adventures</h2>


<p>Honolulu&rsquo;s bustling main thoroughfare is a palm-lined riot of souvenir stores, street performers and shopping arcades. The atmosphere here is particularly electric at night, when the skyscrapers light up like Christmas trees and eye-popping neon signs beckon tropical-shirt-clad tourists into bars and restaurants. Take a stroll after dark to soak up the atmosphere and pause for the occasional refreshing Mai Tai or Blue Hawaii cocktail. After all, it&rsquo;s important to stay hydrated in this heat.</p>

<h2>Sunset Stretches</h2>


<p>You don&rsquo;t have to be a seasoned yogi to get a kick out of a sunset stretching session on the beach. Yoga is big business in Hawaii so there are plenty of beginner classes out there to choose from. Bust out your best downward-facing dog in the shadow of Diamond Head; do the bridge beneath the beach banyans; or corpse by candlelight on Kailua Beach.</p>

<h2>Cool Crepuscular Critters</h2>


After-dark activities and attractions in Oahu, including traditional Hawaiian luau shows, twilight zoo tours and the best mai tai cocktails in town

Things to do in Oahu at Night Time | Go City®

Things to Do in Oahu for Couples During Your Vacation (& Ideas for Groups of Friends)

  <p>Oahu is America’s very own tropical paradise, replete with sweeping sea vistas, lush forests, and peaceful beaches. So how best to see Oahu for adults? Traveling as a couple, or with a group of friends? There are plenty of Oahu attractions to enjoy that will appeal to you, from art and culture to nature and beyond. If you’re looking for things to do in Oahu for adults, check out our list of the top activities that couples and groups of friends will enjoy, including...</p> <ul><li>Polynesian Cultural Center + Alii Luau</li> <li>Sunset Dinner Sail</li> <li>Oahu Hidden Gems &amp; Snorkeling with Turtles</li> <li>Semi-Private Surf Lesson</li> <li>Pearl Harbor Historic Sites</li> <li>Snorkeling at Hanauma Bay</li> <li>Diamond Head Hiking</li> <li>And more!</li> </ul><h2><strong>Polynesian Cultural Center + Alii Luau</strong></h2> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/oahu/Polynesian%20Cultural%20Center%20Dancers.jpg" alt="Image of Dancing, Person, Adult, Female, Woman, Hula, Toy, " loading="lazy"><p>If you’re curious about the history of Hawaii (and why wouldn’t you be?) then a visit to the Polynesian Cultural Center is in order. This comprehensive, immersive experience is like a living museum, where locals teach you about their history and culture. You'll explore territory across six different historic cultures rendered in exquisitely crafted villages -- Aotearoa, Hawaii, Tahiti, Fiji, Samoa, and Tonga -- and get to see the representatives of each culture showcase their heritage. Stay in the evening for an authentic luau, plus a breathtaking dance and musical performance that will truly move you. Don’t forget about the sumptuous meal that comes along with it! </p> <p><strong>Getting In:</strong> <a href="https://gocity.com/oahu/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/polynesian-cultural-center" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Polynesian Cultural Center admission</a> is included with the Go Oahu pass. <a href="https://gocity.com/oahu/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/alii-luau" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Alii Luau admission</a> is available as a premium attraction option with 3-, 5-, and 7-Day Go Boston passes.</p> <h2><strong>Sunset Dinner Sail</strong></h2> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/oahu/DJI_0012_%20(1)%20(1).jpg" alt="Image of Boat, Sailboat, Vehicle, Nature, Outdoors, Sky, Yacht, Horizon, Watercraft, Sea, Water, Scenery, " loading="lazy"><p>For those of you in search of a romantic option that’s something pretty special, a sunset dinner sail aboard the signature Makani Catamaran is your best bet. Enjoy a leisurely two-hour cruise that’s timed to coincide with a gorgeous ocean sunset, accompanied by a delicious island-style dinner. Throw in a free drink and you’re set for a fun and romantic evening. Of course, there's nothing to say that friends can't relish a sunset cruise, too! Enjoy the cooling sea breezes and savor those tropical beverages.</p> <p><strong>Getting In:</strong> <a href="https://gocity.com/oahu/en-us/attractions/sunset-dinner-sail-makani-catamaran" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Oahu Dinner Cruise Sunset Dinner Sail admission</a> is available as a premium attraction option with the 3-, 5-, and 7-Day Go Oahu passes.</p> <h2><strong>All of Oahu in One Day Tour</strong></h2> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/oahu/All-of-Oahu-in-One-Day-Tour_0.jpg" alt="Image of Landscape, Nature, Outdoors, Scenery, Vegetation, Land, Tree, Woodland, Wilderness, Green, Sky, Cloud, Panoramic, Mountain, Mountain Range, Grass, Rock, " loading="lazy"><p>Really get to know the island with this nuanced and comprehensive tour. It can be almost impossible to escort yourself around the entire island in a weekend, let alone one single day, so allow this expert tour company to pick out the highlights for you. This 120-mile bus tour will take you all throughout the island, from East Oahu to Honolulu to the North Shore. Don’t forget that camera (and some snacks – the tour is 8 hours long).</p> <p><strong>Getting In: </strong><a href="https://gocity.com/oahu/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/all-oahu-one-day-tour" target="_blank" rel="noopener">All of Oahu in One Day Tour admission</a> is included with the Go Oahu pass.</p> <h2><strong>Oahu Hidden Gems &amp; Snorkeling with Turtles</strong></h2> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/oahu/banner%203.2021.jpg" alt="Image of Beach, Coast, Nature, Outdoors, Sea, Shoreline, Water, Animal, Reptile, Sea Life, Tortoise, Turtle, Sea Turtle, " loading="lazy"><p>To embark on a journey that we know will forever change the way you see Hawaii, try out an Oahu Hidden Gems tour. You’ll see a great combination of some of the major sites (like Diamond Head and the Halona Blowhole) and some local digs (like the North Shore shrimp trucks). Then, couple that with a chance to snorkel with some awesome sea turtles, and you’ve got one amazing day planned for you and your friends.</p> <p><strong>Getting In: </strong><a href="https://gocity.com/oahu/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/oahu-hidden-gems-tour" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Oahu Hidden Gems and Snorkeling with Turtles admission</a> is available as a premium attraction option with the 3-, 5-, and 7-Day Go Oahu passes.</p> <h2><strong>Semi-Private Surf Lesson</strong></h2> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/oahu/featured_images/Waikiki-Beach-Surfing-Hawaii.jpg" alt="Image of Nature, Outdoors, Sea, Water, Sea Waves, Adult, Female, Person, Woman, Back, Summer, Surfing, " loading="lazy"><p>Another great activity idea for you and your partner is a surf lesson. Get personalized attention from your expert instructor during this two hour session, after which you’ll be able head out into the ocean waters on your own. It’s a great activity for those who have never tried surfing before, as they begin at a very basic level. Fun for honeymoons or bucket lists!</p> <p><strong>Getting In: </strong><a href="https://gocity.com/oahu/en-us/products/all-inclusive" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Semi-private Oahu Surf Lesson admission</a> is available as a premium attraction option with the 3-, 5-, and 7-Day Go Oahu passes.</p> <h2><strong>Makani Catamaran Sail</strong></h2> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/oahu/shutterstock_1094835902_0.jpg" alt="Image of Fun, Vacation, Adult, Female, Person, Woman, Tourist, Boy, Male, Teen, Swimwear, Back, Boat, Vehicle, " loading="lazy"><p>You simply can’t leave Oahu without spending a little time on the water. If you’re in the market for a fun excursion that showcases the best in sightseeing alongside some water-borne fun, hop aboard the Makani Catamaran. This two-hour cruise will showcase the best in ocean views and marine life, so you should keep an eye out for turtles, dolphins, sea birds, and even whales in particular seasons!</p> <p><strong>Getting In:</strong> <a href="https://gocity.com/oahu/en-us/attractions/makani-catamaran-sail" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Makani Catamaran Sail admission</a> is included with the Go Oahu pass.</p> <h2><strong>Pearl Harbor Historic Sites</strong> </h2> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/oahu/USS%20Bowfin-1.jpg" alt="Image of Water, Waterfront, Boat, Vehicle, Watercraft, Yacht, " loading="lazy"><p>History buffs will want to make time to visit the famed Pearl Harbor Historic Sites, which serve as a memorial to that fateful day, those who lost their lives, and the war’s legacy. The USS Bowfin Submarine, aka, “The Pearl Harbor Avenger” sank 44 enemy ships during her time in the battle. The Battleship Missouri, or “Mighty Mo,” was the last battleship ever built and served as the site of many historic moments, including the Surrender Deck, where WWII officially ended. Finally, the USS Arizona Memorial is a poignant reminder of those who lost their lives in the December 7 attack. It’s also recently been voted #5 Landmark in the US in a TripAdvisor poll, so it’s definitely worth checking out!</p> <p><strong>Getting In: </strong><a href="https://gocity.com/oahu/en-us/attractions/uss-bowfin-submarine-pearl-harbor" target="_blank" rel="noopener">USS Bowfin Submarine admission</a>, <a href="https://gocity.com/oahu/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/battleship-missouri-memorial-pearl-harbor" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Battleship Missouri admission,</a> and <a href="https://gocity.com/oahu/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/uss-arizona-memorial-narrated-tour-pearl-harbor" target="_blank" rel="noopener">USS Arizona admission</a> are included with the Go Oahu pass.</p> <h2><strong>Snorkeling</strong></h2> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/oahu/shutterstock_598410023_0.jpg" alt="Image of Nature, Outdoors, Water, Person, Swimming, Water Sports, Underwater, Snorkeling, Adult, Female, Woman, Animal, Fish, Sea Life, " loading="lazy"><p>Another must-do activity in Oahu is snorkeling. There are many gorgeous places to seek out vibrant ocean life beneath the waves, but one of our favorites is the lush Hanauma Bay. Snorkel there for some truly special experiences. Or, if you’re sticking around Waikiki, rent some snorkel gear and explore some of the island’s most popular waters. You’ll get the keep the gear for a long time, too, so you won’t feel rushed.</p> <p><strong>Getting In:</strong> <a href="https://gocity.com/oahu/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/hanauma-bay-snorkel" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hanauma Bay Snorkeling admission</a> and <a href="https://gocity.com/oahu/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/full-day-snorkel-rental" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Full Day Snorkel rentals</a> are both included with the Go Oahu pass.</p> <h2><strong>Hiking</strong></h2> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/oahu/20361491175_4fc03537cb_b.jpg" alt="Image of Nature, Outdoors, Sea, Water, Shoreline, Coast, Land, Aerial View, " loading="lazy"><p>Outdoorsy friends and couples will also relish the chance to hike around this gorgeous island paradise. Two of the most popular options are Diamond Head and Makapu’u Point, both of which provide excellent views and great exercise. Diamond Head was named by early European explorers who thought the calcite crystals were diamonds. It's especially popular with photographers for that reason. Makapu’u Point features a delightful historic lighthouse, with a unique hyper-radiant lens that’s definitely worth a look in.</p> <p><strong>Getting In:</strong> <a href="https://gocity.com/oahu/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/diamond-head-hike" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Diamond Head Hike shuttle</a> and <a href="https://gocity.com/oahu/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/makapuu-lighthouse-hike" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Makapu’u Lighthouse Hike shuttle</a> are both included with the Go Oahu pass.</p> <h2><strong>Nature Spots &amp; Gardens</strong></h2> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/oahu/GoHAW_WaimeaValley1CREDIT_cmyk.jpg" alt="Image of Grass, Garden, Nature, Outdoors, Park, Vegetation, Lawn, Tree, Arbour, Backyard, Yard, " loading="lazy"><p>Now that you’ve spent some time inside, spend a little time on the wild side of Oahu nature. Get away from the beaches and into the heart of the island, where you’ll see gorgeous waterfalls, lush tropical trees and flowers, and unbelievably beautiful wildlife. Waimea Valley has it all (see the picture above if you don't believe us), and the Lyon Arboretum focuses on native flora.</p> <p><strong>Getting In:</strong> <a href="https://gocity.com/oahu/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/waimea-valley" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Waimea Valley admission</a> and <a href="https://gocity.com/oahu/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/lyon-arboretum" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Lyon Arboretum admission</a> are both included with the Go Oahu pass.</p> <h2><strong>Oahu Museums</strong></h2> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/oahu/Mediterranean%20Courtyard_0.jpg" alt="Image of House, Housing, Villa, Tree, Path, Walkway, Chair, Floor, Bench, " loading="lazy"><p>Hawaii isn’t all outdoors! Some of the most amazing things to do in Oahu for adults can actually be found in the halls of museums. Whether you’re into Hawaii history, global art, or even local artisans, you’ll find a museum to suit your fancy here. The Honolulu Museum of Art is modest in size, but big on cultural payoff, with expertly curated exhibits and displays that showcase their invaluable treasures. Iolani Palace is especially cool if you want to see the home of the last two Hawaiian monarchs, and the Queen Emma Summer Palace is also good for those interested in the Hawaiian monarchy. </p> <p><strong>Getting In:</strong> <a href="https://gocity.com/oahu/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/iolani-palace" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Iolani Palace admission</a>, <a href="https://gocity.com/oahu/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/honolulu-museum-art" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Honolulu Museum of Art Admission</a>, and <a href="https://gocity.com/oahu/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/queen-emma-summer-palace" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Queen Emma Summer Palace admission</a> are all included with the Go Oahu pass. </p> <h2><strong>Shopping</strong></h2> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/oahu/Waikele-shopping.jpg" alt="Image of Person, Shopping, Face, Happy, Head, Smile, Accessories, Sunglasses, Adult, Female, Woman, " loading="lazy"><p>What’s a vacation without a little shopping? Hop aboard a shuttle to the Waikele Outlet Mall for some top-notch classic vacation fun. Grab some new shoes to show off as you club it up in Waikiki or a new bathing suit to lounge on the beach. The shuttle takes the hassle of out of dealing with Oahu traffic, too, so it’s a win-win. </p> <p><strong>Getting In: </strong><a href="https://gocity.com/oahu/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/waikele-outlet-mall-shopping-shuttle" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Waikele Outlet Mall Shuttle admission</a> is included with the Go Oahu pass. <br> </p> <h2>Save on Admission to Popular Adult Attractions</h2> <p>Regular admission to a number of these attractions is included on the Go Oahu pass. Choose as you go from dozens of Oahu activities and save on combined admission vs paying at the gate. <a href="https://gocity.com/oahu/en-us" target="_blank" rel="noopener">See all available passes and Oahu based attractions – Learn more.</a></p> 

Check out our favorite things to do in Oahu for adults. Save on admission to many attractions that are fun for adults, couples, and friends.

Things to Do in Oahu for Couples - Oahu Attractions for Adults

2 Days in Oahu - A Weekend in Oahu Itinerary for a Fun Hawaii Island Hopping Vacation

<p>Planning a trip to Oahu and don&#39;t know where to begin? Or, maybe you&#39;re visiting a few different islands during your Hawaiian vacation and want some ideas for spending a weekend in Oahu. Whatever the case may be, we put together a fun itinerary for 2 days in Oahu that features a variety of popular attractions and activities. This Oahu itinerary includes things to do that will appeal to families, couples, or any Hawaii-bound traveler.&nbsp;<strong>This itinerary includes:</strong></p>

<ul>
	<li>Diamond Head Hike</li>
	<li>Waikiki Beach Activities</li>
	<li>Pacific Aviation Museum at Pearl Harbor</li>
	<li>Battleship Missouri at Pearl Harbor</li>
	<li>USS Arizona Memorial Narrated Tour at Pearl Harbor</li>
	<li>USS Bowfin Submarine at Pearl Harbor</li>
</ul>

<p>We&rsquo;ve also put together a&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/blog/one-day-in-oahu/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">1 day in Oahu itinerary</a>, a&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/blog/oahu-itinerary/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">3 day itinerary</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/blog/one-week-in-hawaii/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">one week in Oahu Hawaii itinerary</a>&nbsp;- for a fun-filled activity packed vacation.</p>

<h2>Save on Attraction Admission</h2>

<p>Pick up a 2-Day&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/oahu/en-us">Go Oahu&reg; Card</a>&nbsp;and save off combined admission prices vs paying at the gate. Remember, this 2 days in Oahu itinerary is just one of many ways to experience the island. The Go Oahu&reg; Card gives you the flexibility to create your own itinerary, so you can choose from dozens of top attractions and create a vacation tailored to your interests.</p>


Spending 2 days in Oahu? Here's a list of places you've got to visit. This popular weekend in Oahu island hopping itinerary covers it all. Trust us.

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