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Things to do in Oahu for 4th of July Weekend - 10+ Fun Things

By Katie Sagal

With lots of festivities, patriotic sights to see, one of the biggest firework displays in the nation, and more, Hawaii is one of the best places to celebrate the 4th of July. You're presented with the unique opportunity to enjoy attractions with regular hours on either weekend, as well as special events mid-week to celebrate the holiday. Looking for Oahu 4th of July ideas? Check out some of these local activities and fun things do in Oahu in July, including...

  • Take a Tour of Pearl Harbor
  • Fireworks at Ala Moana Center
  • Prince Lot Hula Festival at the Iolani Palace
  • Da Hui Independence Day Paddleboard Race
  • and more...

Save on Admission to Popular Attractions

The Go Oahu pass provides regular admission to a number of these attractions. Choose as you go from dozens of Oahu attractions and activities and save up to 55% off combined admission vs paying at the gate. See all available passes and Oahu attractions – Learn more. Please note, some of these special July and 4th of July events may be separately ticketed and not included on the Go Oahu pass.

Take a Tour of Pearl Harbor

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Get in the patriotic spirit by exploring the significant role Hawaii played in World War II. Take a tour and discover the history of Pearl Harbor, the site of the attack that sparked the U.S. entry into World War II, and Honolulu. A fully narrated tour covers all the major landmarks and is a great way for first-time visitors to get to know the city of Honolulu. When: Daily at 6:30 am (reservations required: call (808) 971-4323) Getting In: Pearl Harbor Historical City Tour tickets are included with the Go Oahu pass.

Head to Secret Island Beach

secret-beach-on-oahu-island

If you want to get some beach time in on your July vacation to Oahu (and of course you do), then you'll want to head up to Kualoa Ranch to spend some time at one of the island's most delightful places -- Secret Island Beach. Come here to enjoy sunbathing and swimming, as well as plenty of family-friendly attractions and activities like beach volleyball, kayaking, canoeing, and so much more. The perfect way to celebrate your 4th of July holiday! Getting In: Secret Island Beach tickets are included with the Go Oahu pass.

42nd Prince Lot Hula Festival

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Truly immerse yourself in authentic Hawaiian culture with a visit to one of the region's most popular summer festivals. The Prince Lot Hula Festival invites hula groups from across the entire state to celebrate the magic and beauty of this traditional dance form. You will also enjoy free concerts, a craft fair, food for sale, and much more. It's a great family-friendly event! The event will take place on the grounds of the gorgeous Iolani Palace; an attraction definitely worth coming back to explore and tour another time -- perhaps the weekend before or after the holiday? Where: Iolani Palace Getting In: The Prince Lot Hula Festival is free to attend. Iolani Palace tickets are included with the Go Oahu pass.

Fireworks and Celebrations at Ala Moana Center

Head to the Ala Moana Center and Ala Moana Beach Park for fireworks, live entertainment, and shopping specials for their annual 4th of July celebration. The Ala Moana Center boasts one of the nation's largest fireworks display and the biggest in the state of Hawaii. From July 4th through the 7th, guests can also enjoy exclusive deals and discounts plus live entertainment at the Ala Moana Center itself. If you're in search of some shopping opportunities, this is a good chance to save big on your purchases and get yourself in a festive holiday mood! Insider tip: Tune in to KSSK, AM590/FM92.3 for a live fireworks soundtrack that accompanies the show. Where: Ala Moana Center, 1450 Ala Moana Blvd. Honolulu, HI 96814 (fireworks will be at the Ala Moana Beach Park) Getting In: Ala Moana Independence Day celebrations are free to enjoy.

Da Hui Independence Day Paddleboard Race

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Spend the morning seeing how you stand up to the competition in the Da Hui Annual Paddle Race (or just watch racers paddle to the finish line at Waimea Bay), one of the top paddleboard events around. This event features a 4 mile and a 7 mile race for varying levels of race challenges. When: July 4, 2018 at 10:00 am Where: Turtle Bay Resort. (Race starting point varies by course) For more information and to register, check out the Da Hui Paddle Race websiteGetting In: It's free to watch the Da Hui Annual Paddle Race.

Kailua Fourth of July Parade, Fireworks, & Airshow

Make a day of the festive Kailua 4th of July fun. Kick off the Independence Day celebrations by watching the parade, pack a cooler and spend the rest of the day right on Kailua Beach to secure the best spot to watch the air show and fireworks display. Please note that the exact information for this year is still TBD; I'm providing the info for previous years as a point of reference. When:

  • Parade: 10:00 am, starts at the intersection of Kainalu Drive and Palapu Street Avenue to Kailua Intermediate School
  • Airshow: 6:00 pm
  • Fireworks: July 4, from 8:00 pm to 8:30 pm

Where: Kailua Beach, Kailua, Hawaii 96734 (Check the site for parking and shuttle information) Getting In: Kailua Independence Day events are free to attend.

The Epilepsy Foundation Freedom Run (EFFR)

Lace up your sneakers and head over to Kailua High School for some patriotic competition. Sponsored by the Epilepsy Foundation of Hawaii and USA Track & Field, the EFFR features timed 5K and 10K races and a one mile walk that welcomes wheelchairs, strollers, and pets on leashes. All proceeds benefit programs and services that are linked to the Epilepsy Foundation of Hawaii. Where: Kailua High School, 451 Ulumanu Drive, Kailua, HI 96734 For more information and to register, visit the EFFR siteGetting In: It's free to watch the EFFR races; registration fees apply if you'd like to race.

First Friday Honolulu Art Walk in Chinatown

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Browse through hip art galleries, boutiques, cafes, and restaurants that feature art exhibits and free entertainment in Chinatown. Spend the evening exploring the trendy bars and nightlife that Chinatown is known for. Where: Nuuanu Ave, Honolulu, Hawaii 96817 Getting In: First Friday Art Walks are free to attend.

Mō‘ili‘ili Summer Fest

 

This delightful summer festival is a local celebration of Japanese and Hawaiian culture. Held each year in one of Honolulu's most historic neighborhoods, this fun, family-friendly festival features dancing, crafts, food, and more. Insider Tip: Park at the University of Hawaii at Manoa Lower Campus lot and take the free shuttle to the event. Where: 1110 University Ave Getting In: Mō‘ili‘ili Summer Fest is free to attend.

Save on Admission

There you go - plenty of fun ideas for things to do in Oahu in July to help you plan your 4th of July itinerary. Remember, many of these great ideas are included on the Go Oahu pass, where you can save up to 55% on combined admission vs paying at the gate. We really hope you consider adding a few of these popular options to your upcoming plans. Enjoy!

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Tips for Visiting the USS Missouri Battleship Memorial - Discount Tickets & More

After decades of service in the World War II, Korean, and Persian Gulf wars, the massive battleship USS Missouri rides anchor at Ford Island in Pearl Harbor. The USS Missouri, also known as "Mighty Mo" holds distinction among the other battleships at Pearl Harbor for its historical value. Walk the sprawling decks, explore her inner heart, and relive the monumental moments of the Mighty Mo’s past. Check out our helpful guide for visiting the the USS Missouri Memorial at Pearl Harbor, with tips for visiting, other nearby attractions, and much more. Looking for USS Missouri Battleship Discount Tickets? If you are planning on visiting Oahu, especially during December, we highly recommend spending time at each of the Pearl Harbor Historic Sites. We’ve got you covered for tickets - Battleship Missouri Memorial admission is available with the below money saving options, so you can choose the attraction pass that's right for you: 1. All-Inclusive Pass - All you can do. Includes admission to dozens of attractions. 2. Build Your Own Pass - Select the attractions you want to visit prior to visiting. See all available Oahu passes, attractions & prices. Interested in seeing more of the Pearl Harbor Historic Sites? Fortunately for you, the Go Oahu Card includes admission to each of the following, so you can see them all with just one pass... USS Arizona Memorial Narrated Tour Battleship Missouri USS Bowfin Submarine Museum Pacific Aviation Museum Tips for Visiting Battleship Missouri on Your Vacation When to Visit the USS Missouri USS Missouri Highlights As you cross the gangway and board the battleship, you are immediately struck by the immensity of this vessel. The USS Missouri is an Iowa-class, super-fast battleship measuring nearly 900 feet long, around 100 feet wide, and over 200 feet high. Its teak decks span over 1 acre -- 52,000 square feet. Each of the links in the two 1,200 foot-long anchor chains weighs 100 pounds. The entire ship weighs more than 58,000 tons. Mighty Mo’s service record spans almost 50 years, three wars, and three generations of military service men and women. Guns Second Deck Interior Tour Take a look over the port side of the ship to see the dent a Japanese Kamikaze pilot left when he crashed into the ship at Okinawa in April 1945. The crash started a gasoline fire, but it was quickly put out and the Mighty Mo’s damages were merely superficial. The Second Deck Interior Visitor Route features a Kamikaze Memorial, the “Crew’s Room” and a Korean War Exhibit, the Chief’s quarters and crew’s quarters/workshops/offices, and the crew’s mess hall, galley, bakery, and Big Mo Snack Shop. Upper Levels Exit the Second Deck Interior and find the stairs to the upper levels, where you will find the Captain’s Cabin, Tomahawk Missile Deck, Combat Engagement Center, Navigation Bridge (Pilot House), and the history-making Surrender Deck. Be aware that the upper decks get very high, the steps are quite steep and open, and the wind picks up as you go higher, so if you’re afraid of heights, you may want to prepare yourself. Surrender Deck The Surrender Deck is the most famous part of the ship, and probably the most meaningful to visitors. On September 2, 1945, Japan formally surrendered to the United States aboard the USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay, officially ending World War II. Stand on the Surrender Deck and hear General Douglas MacArthur issue his acceptance of surrender to the representatives of the Emperor of Japan. View the actual signed documents ending the war, preserved under glass. Relive that moment of victory and relief in the very spot it occurred. The Heart of Missouri The ‘Heart of Missouri’ tour is a guided tour that takes visitors behind locked doors and into restricted areas of the ship. Available for an extra fee, this tour provides a deeper look at the inner workings of the battleship and the lives of her captain and crew. Unfortunately, children under age 10 are not allowed on this tour, as it is more challenging and may be dangerous for younger children. Nearby Attractions Places to Eat Nearby You can get hot dogs and burgers at Slider’s Grill in the Pearl Canteen, a 40’s style canteen at the dock of Mighty Mo, or try Hawaiian Shave Ice at the Wai Momi stand -- they also sell pizza slices and huge churros. The Battleshop sells snacks, beverages, and ice cream in addition to souvenirs. Food trucks show up most days around lunchtime. The Pearl Harbor Visitor Center has a snack stand that serves corn dogs, popcorn, and shave ice, and there is a small convenience store with chips, candy, packaged sandwiches, and beverages. Schooners restaurant, on the other side of the bridge from Ford Island, is the closest real eatery to the USS Missouri Memorial. Schooners supplies great views of the harbor from its large outdoor dining patio along with lunch and dinner from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm. The lunch buffet is popular, but a full menu is also available, along with a full bar. Save on Admission with a Go Oahu Card Remember, the Go Oahu Card is the best choice for maximum savings and flexibility, which includes Battleship Missouri at Pearl Harbor tickets, plus admission to dozens more top attractions. Save up to 55% on top museums, tours, and activities vs. paying at the gate. Visit multiple attractions for one low price.
Lindsay Eagan
Oahu
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Oahu Memorial Day Weekend - 10+ Fun Things to Do in May

Early summer is a delightful time of year to spend in Oahu. This Memorial Day Weekend, pack up the whole family and head to the luxurious paradise of Hawaii to make the most of the sun, sand and surf. Of course, there’s more to do than just lounge on the beach. You can enjoy guided tours, kayak the clear waters, go on a snorkeling adventure and much more. If you’re looking for Oahu Memorial Day Weekend ideas and events, check out some of these local activities and fun things do in Oahu in May, including... Pearl Harbor Historic Sites Polynesian Cultural Center & Alii Luau Makani Catamaran Sail Snorkeling Hanauma Bay Hiking Excursions Oahu Bike Rentals And more! Save on Admission to Popular Attractions Regular admission to a number of these attractions are included on the Go Oahu pass. Choose as you go from dozens of Oahu attractions & activities and save up to 55% off combined admission vs paying at the gate. See all available passes and Oahu attractions – Learn more. Please note, some of these special May and Memorial Day weekend events may be separately ticketed and not included on the Go Oahu pass. Pearl Harbor Historic Sites Oahu Hidden Gems + Snorkeling with Turtles Polynesian Cultural Center + Ali'i Lū'au Makani Catamaran Sail Hanauma Bay Snorkel Hiking Excursions Oahu Bike Rentals Secret Island Beach Sea Life Park Lantern Floating Hawaii Ceremony Samoa Festival and World FireKnife Championships The most skilled performers in the world will compete for a chance to win the coveted title of World FireKnife Champion. The heated competition will take place at the Polynesian Cultural Center May 6 - 9. Old Samoan tradition says that warriors would use a lightweight sword for hacking - in modern times this sword is used in a dance to pay homage to ancestors. Getting In: The World FireKnife Championships are separately ticketed and not included on the Go Oahu pass. Hawaii Memorial Day Parade Honor our fallen heroes at the Hawaii Memorial Day Parade. These festivities begin in Fort DeRussy Park at 5PM, and then head down Kalakaua Avenue towards its conclusion in front of the Kapiolani Park. Marvel at amazingly designed floats, talented marching bands, and other performers, military organizations, and many more. It’s a fun festive atmosphere the kids will love. Be sure to arrive on the parade route early if you’d like a good view – it’s a very popular event with locals. Getting In: The Hawaii Memorial Day Parade is free to watch. Let's Recap There you go - plenty of fun ideas for things to do in Oahu in May to help you plan your Memorial Day weekend itinerary. Remember, many of these great ideas are included on the Go Oahu pass, where you can save up to 55% on combined admission vs paying at the gate. We really hope you consider adding a few of these popular options to your upcoming plans. Enjoy!
Katie Sagal

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