Oahu in 2 days: beaches, history, and adventure

Here you will learn about the history of the U.S. Navy’s Submarine Force, the Silent Service during WWII, the Cold War, and much more. The newly renovated museum features a mix of traditional exhibits, fascinating multi-media, and interactive displays.Found in the historical waters of Pearl Harbor, the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park is a place of wartime tales and artifacts. As you navigate the park, there's a clear feeling of the Bowfin's impact, the critical role it played in WWII, and the tales of sailors who once called it home. But Pearl Harbor's stories go beyond just this one vessel. The harbor houses the iconic Bowfin as well as other submarines, each sharing their own personal history and memories.On the sun-kissed shores of Oahu, an underwater journey awaits. The popular Oahu submarine tour offers a look into the often mysterious world of submarines. There are plenty of shipwrecks beneath these waters, and a visit here, opens up that world. Don’t miss this visit to Pearl Harbor where you will learn more about what happened here as well as take a deep dive into everyone’s favorite watercraft- the submarine!Explore one of only 15 surviving U.S. combat submarines from World War II, the USS Bowfin, learn about the attacks on enemy warships, and the history of this incredible sub.The USS Bowfin, known as the ‘Pearl Harbor Avenger’, was launched one year after the attack on Pearl Harbor and sank 44 enemy ships during her nine wartime patrols. As you tour the submarine you’ll be amazed by the tight quarters that acted as the 80-strong crew’s home for extended periods at sea. Be prepared to crouch, watch your head through the doorways, ascend ladders, crawl through hatches, and march up steps.

Don't miss the chance to relax on your own stretch of a private beach. Secret Island in Oahu is a secluded beach with sweeping views of Kaneohe Bay and Mokolii Island (Chinaman's Hat). You’ll enjoy 3.5 hours' use of all facilities including kayaking, canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, swimming, volleyball, ping-pong and more. If you're looking for a more leisurely time, enjoy relaxing in a hammock under a swaying palm tree.What you do with your time is up to you. This stretch of white sand is perfect for whiling away the hours in the sun, or amping up the adrenaline and getting stuck into the varied activities. Your pass also includes an open-air bus ride through Molii Gardens where you can breathe in the sweet scent of Oahu’s wildflowers, and a ride on canoe rafts across the ancient Hawaiian fishpond. Kualoa Beach, or lovingly called Oahu's Secret Island, is a special experience that not everyone knows about. A perfect place to unwind and appreciate the natural beauty of Hawaii, oh and of course the watersports!As you explore the scenery, you’ll be walking in the footsteps of stars, as movies and TV shows including Jurassic Park, 50 First Dates, Hawaii 5-0, Lost, and Pearl Harbor were filmed here. The Kualoa Beach Ranch complex also features a historic sugar plantation and a World War II airfield that was used as a training site for the US military, and a runway for 'Kittyhawk' warplanes. 

Looking for things to do in Hawaii? You'll get amazing views of Oahu's stunning shoreline on this Makani Catamaran Sail, and you might even see some aquatic creatures too.Set sail on the clear blue waters of Oahu aboard a luxurious catamaran. As the island breeze brushes against you, watch the stunning coastline and glorious mountain backdrop leave you with a feeling of peace. You might even spot playful dolphins, or if luck's on your side, the majestic humpback whale.Dolphins, sea turtles, flying fish, and even humpback whales are regularly spotted along the Oahu cruise trail, so keep your eyes peeled.Relax on the deck of this catamaran cruise and enjoy the refreshing Hawaiian ocean breeze as the boat slices smoothly through the waves. You'll have a choice of indoor or outdoor seating and there's a fully-stocked bar where you can purchase drinks. You can even lie down in the sunbathing net areas if you want to cool down and catch some rays at the same time.

With off-the-beaten-path moments, as well as the chance to tick off some of Oahu's most famous spots, this tour is the ultimate Oahu road trip.Spend the day with a local guide and prepare yourself for spectacular lookout points, those straight-outta-brochure beaches, local culture and, of course, turtles.