Things to do in Oahu and Hawaii in October

Hawaii really comes out to play in October, when Halloween activities – pumpkin-picking dress-up and Honolulu hauntings – get into full swing and several other festivals, including Honolulu Pride and the Ironman World Championship, also take place. Our guide to the best things to do in Oahu and Hawaii in October includes all of these, plus hula dancing, turtles, cultural attractions and much more!

By <a href="#author-bio">Stuart Bak</a>
By Stuart Bak
Published: March 5, 2025
Wheelbarrow full of pumpkins at a farm

Visiting Oahu and Hawaii in October

Kids and adults dancing on the beach in traditional Hawaiian lei garlands

Temperature: 73-88°F • Average Rainfall: 11 days/month • Average Sunshine: 9 hours/day • Sea Temperature: 81°F

October is shoulder season in Hawaii. Not that you’d know it, what with the veritable smorgasbord of fun festivals taking place throughout the month, from foodie spectaculars to film fests and, of course, Halloween. Prices are, on the whole, lower than more popular peak summer dates, meaning there are bargains to be had. But do be aware that hotel prices can spike during the most popular events (looking at you, Ironman World Championship).

The weather in October ain’t half bad either: we’re talking balmy summer days with only the occasional pre-rainy season shower, but rarely anything prolonged enough to dampen your spirits. Our advice? Pack a pocket poncho with the shades and sunscreen just in case you’re caught out on a hike.

Tourist numbers are also down in October, so it’s a fine time to enjoy all those fine Oahu attractions – Pearl Harbor, Diamond Head and traditional Polynesian luaus – with relatively few fellow sightseers. You can also save on admission to dozens of Hawaii bucket-listers with the Oahu pass from Go City®, which can reduce regular admission prices by up to half. Click to find out more and choose your pass.

October Festivals in Oahu and Hawaii

Rainbow flags at Pride Parade

Hawaii hosts more festivals and events in October than you can shake your hula at. Here is just a small selection of our faves…

Honolulu Pride Parade

October is Hawaii’s LGBTQ+ History Month, when the already colorful streets of Honolulu get the full rainbow treatment, with flags flying from Magic Island all the way down Kalakaua Avenue through Waikiki and into Kapiolani Park. Pick a spot along the route to catch the eye-popping Pride Parade, featuring flamboyant floats, loud loud music and plenty of balloons and streamers, and nab tickets for the festival that follows, with drag acts, musicians, dancers and more taking to the stage at Waikiki Shell. More here.

Hawaii Island Festival of Birds

The Big Island’s annual festival of all things avian is a must for full-feathered birdwatchers and fledgling twitchers alike. Expect tours, talks, games and bird-themed crafts, meaning that, if you fail to spot that elusive Hawaiian honeycreeper, you can probably still buy a picture of one. Stick your beak in for further details here.

Hawaii Food and Wine Festival

This epicurean extravaganza takes place over three weekends in October (and sometimes into early November), taking in a trio of islands – Oahu, Maui and the Big Island – and serving up countless culinary delights from the Pacific Islands and beyond. Take an empty stomach and an open mind for maximum enjoyment. Details of this year’s festival can be found here.

Ironman World Championship

Traithlon competitor running trails on Hawaii's Big Island

You’ll feel like you’re working off some of that fine Hawaiian cuisine just by *spectating* this annual triathlon on the Big Island, in which hardcore athletes from around the world compete for the title of Ironman (and Ironwoman). The course includes an open-water sea swim in Kailua-Kona Bay, a bike race across 122 miles of lava-scarred desert, and a windswept coastal marathon, all in frequently sweltering conditions. Not, in other words, a contest for the faint-hearted.

Hawaii International Film Festival

Popcorn at the ready: held across the four main Hawaiian Islands, this annual cinema showcase highlights movies from Asia, the Pacific region and North America. Here’s your chance to catch exclusive screenings, plus workshops, director Q&As, star-studded awards ceremonies and – who knows – perhaps even the odd celebrity selfie opportunity. Check the HIFF website for event details.

Emalani Festival

Featuring traditional food, music and crafts, this one honors Queen Emma’s valuable contribution to Hawaii’s rich cultural heritage. A celebration of her legendary horsemanship forms the centerpiece of the event. And if that’s whet your appetite for all things Queen Emma, your Oahu pass also covers entry to her summer palace: a 19th-century New England-style house just outside Honolulu in the lush Nuuanu Valley.

Spooktacular Halloween Fun!

Scary Halloween pumpkin on the beach at dusk

In many ways, Hawaii’s no different to the other 49 US states. That’s especially true at Halloween, when the trick or treaters are out in force and carved pumpkins wearing all manner of hideous expressions line the streets. You can even pick and carve your own at one of the pumpkin farms on Oahu and the Big Island.

Join a Honolulu ghost tour to discover Polynesian connections to the spiritual world, complete with spooky myths and legends and even ceremonies for communing with long-dead relatives. Or take a walk through the Haunted Plantation… if you dare. This super-scary immersive sugar-plantation nightmare unfolds in what is considered to be one of the world’s most haunted villages. Gulp.

Bit too creepy for comfort? Opt for marginally more cuddly Halloween experiences at themed pop-up bars, local cinemas and the Waikiki Aquarium instead.

October in Oahu and Hawaii: Best of the Rest

Hula dancer ornament on a car bonnet

There’s plenty more you can do in Oahu and Hawaii in October (when not birdwatching, taking part in a triathlon or running away screaming from disembodied heads, that is). The reduced shoulder-season crowds makes October prime time, for example, to tick off some of those essential cultural Oahu attractions. We’re talking the moving memorials and monuments of Pearl Harbor, the ostentatious confection that is regal Iolani Palace, and that most essential of Hawaii experiences: the traditional luau, a sensory extravaganza of Polynesian food, traditional music, hula, fire-dancing and more. You can check out our pick of Oahu's top 10 attractions here, and read our comparison of two of Oahu’s top luau shows here.

Turtle on the beach in Hawaii

Pimp up your skill set with something a little out of your comfort zone. Hawaiians pride themselves on their colorful traditions and want to share them with you. And, after all, it’s not every day you get the chance to craft a delicate floral garland or learn hula and fire-dancing from the experts.

That’s not all either. You can still spot nesting sea turtles by the dozen in October on beaches like Lanikai on Oahu (there’s a reason they call it Turtle Beach, doncha know), as well as at Kahaluʻu Beach Park on the Big Island.

Looking for more October activities in Oahu and Hawaii? Hit the buttons below to find out how you could save with the Oahu pass and to choose yours…

Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak
Freelance travel writer

Stu caught the travel bug at an early age, thanks to childhood road trips to the south of France squeezed into the back of a Ford Cortina with two brothers and a Sony Walkman. Now a freelance writer living on the Norfolk coast, Stu has produced content for travel giants including Frommer’s, British Airways, Expedia, Mr & Mrs Smith, and now Go City. His most memorable travel experiences include drinking kava with the locals in Fiji and pranging a taxi driver’s car in the Honduran capital.

Continue reading

waikiki-skyline-sunset-on-oahu
Blog

Go Oahu pass Review - My Wonderful 5 Days in Hawaii

This Go Oahu Card review was submitted by Lisabeth F, as part of our Blog Ambassador Program - a fun way to visit top Oahu attractions for free, share your experience, and be featured on our blog. [clear-line] I used the 5-day all-inclusive Go Oahu Card 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. My 5-Day Go Oahu Vacation and Itinerary 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’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... a sunny, relaxing Makani Catamaran Sail a fun-filled Dolphin Encounter at Sea Life Park the informational and leisurely Pearl Harbor Historical City Tour and an emotional and insightful visit to three Pearl Harbor memorials- USS Arizona, USS Bowfin, and USS Missouri Take a virtual mini-tour with me, and I’ll tell you all about it. Pearl Harbor Memorials 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 USS Arizona Memorial, the USS Bowfin Submarine, and the USS Missouri. 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’t need to make reservations for either tour, and instead of exploring them on separate days I toured both ships while I was there. Pearl Harbor Historical City Tour The Pearl Harbor Tour 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’t normally hear from a corporate tour guide, along with all the standard historical facts. The bus was comfortable, quiet, and smooth. More Stops Around Honolulu 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. The Flexibility of the Go Oahu Card 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’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. My Tips for Planning Your Itinerary Using a Go Oahu Card Accessing the pass onto your smartphone makes getting into the attractions easy, and will ensure you always have your passes with you. Many of the attractions require reservations, so call ahead of time to book your slot. 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. Browse each attraction’s website beforehand to familiarize yourself with the attraction and any rules and recommendations. Give yourself more time than you think you need to visit each attraction. There are often more activities nearby or within the attraction you’ll want to explore. Plan on getting something to eat or drink nearby before or after each attraction. Activities make you hungry! 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.
Lindsay Eagan
Oahu
Blog

One Week in Hawaii Itinerary - 7 Days in Oahu for First Timers

Who doesn’t want to spend an entire week in Hawaii? It’s America’s very own tropical paradise, filled with beautiful vistas as diverse as majestic volcanic mountains and vibrant coral reefs. Plus, there’s so much to see and do in this amazing destination, with attractions, tours, and activities galore.  We’ve put together a one-week Hawaii itinerary for first-timers, covering a bunch of ideas for what to do in Hawaii for a week, including fun family activities.   This itinerary includes popular activities grouped by certain regions of the island, including:  Honolulu & Waikiki: Sunset Dinner Sail, Diamond Head Hike, Waikiki Beach, & more  Central Oahu: Battleship Missouri, USS Arizona, Pacific Aviation Museum, & more  Windward Coast: Hanauma Bay Snorkeling, Sea Life Park, Kualoa Ranch & more  North Shore: Surf Lessons, Polynesian Cultural Center & more  Leeward Coast: Wet n’ Wild Hawaii, & more  Makani Catamaran sail If you'd like to enjoy the vivid tropical waters during the day, the Makani Catamaran offers cruise options. This leisurely two-hour cruise is the epitome of tropical luxury. Relax on a gorgeous catamaran vessel, keeping one eye out for sea life like dolphins, sea turtles, and even whales (in season). The boat even includes a full bar which you must stop by to make the most of this cruise.  Getting In: Makani Catamaran Sail tickets are included on all Oahu passes. Diamond Head hike Hike to the top of the famed Diamond Head volcanic crater. The hike is moderate but very approachable even for newbies, so don't worry about being over your head in the hiking game. Not only does the journey offer unbeatable views of the coastline, but the sweeping panoramic vistas of the island you’ll get from the top are out of this world. And don’t worry – this volcano has been dormant for 150,000 years! Bonus: You'll get complimentary hotel pickup from Waikiki hotels. It makes it easy to avoid the notoriously bad Oahu traffic.  Getting In: Diamond Head Hike and Shuttle tickets are included on all Oahu passes. Waikiki Beach If you’re looking for an iconic Hawaiian beach destination, Waikiki Beach is it. It's conveniently located next to several popular hotels, as well as plenty of shopping and dining options for when you need a break from beaching. Waikiki beach is wonderful for relaxing, sunbathing and playing beach volleyball. Take a dip into the water for a bit of snorkeling. Honolulu Zoo  Animal lovers will find much to love about the Honolulu Zoo. Nestled in Kapiolani Park, this gorgeous zoo is home to over 900 animals and acres of luxurious gardens. There’s even a petting zoo for their younger guests, so visiting here is a great family option. Depending on when you go, you may also be able to take advantage of their top-notch educational programs.  Getting In: The Honolulu Zoo is separately ticketed. For more information about the zoo and to purchase tickets, visit the attraction website.  Central Oahu Options to Add to Your Itinerary: Battleship Missouri  Take a tour of the Battleship Missouri for a chance to roam one of the most storied battleships in history. Having served in multiple wars and stood as the official end of World War II site, “Mighty Mo” is one heck of a ship. It’s also recently been refurbished, so you’ll get a sense of what the ship was like in her glory days.  Getting In: Battleship Missouri Memorial tickets are included on all Oahu passes. USS Arizona Memorial This is the most-visited sight in all of Hawaii. Take a self-guided audio tour of the memorial and learn all about the tragic attack of December 7, 1941, and its aftermath. It’s poignant, and informative and is an invaluable destination for those interested in American history. The USS Arizona is also part of the WWII Valor in the Pacific National Monument. So, a visit here is a must for those of you with bucket list aspirations of visiting as many National Parks as possible.  Getting In: USS Arizona Memorial Narrated Tour tickets are included on all Oahu passes.  USS Bowfin submarine Another one for the history buffs, the USS Bowfin is one of the most successful attack submarines in United States military history (just consider its nickname – “The Pearl Harbor Avenger”). You'll get to roam the vessel itself and see what life was like for sailors who served aboard her during combat. Explore the museum, take a self-guided audio tour, and peruse a selection of submarine artifacts.  Getting In: USS Bowfin Submarine Tour tickets are included on all Oahu passes. Pacific Aviation Museum  This unique Pearl Harbor museum showcases vintage aircraft and artifacts in the original setting of authentic WWII hangars. If the amazing sight of real WWII-era aircraft wasn’t enough, interactive exhibits and state-of-the-art displays make for an immersive educational experience.  Getting In: Pacific Aviation Museum tickets are included on all Oahu passes. Local Golf Courses  It’s hard to narrow down the list of centrally located golf courses in Oahu, but there are plenty of great options to choose from. Kapolei Golf Course, Barbers Point Golf Course, and Hawaii Prince Golf Club are just a few of the many available golf attractions in this part of Oahu. You’d be hard-pressed to find golf courses more beautiful than these in Hawaii! Want to improve your golf game? Then read up on these tips on how to putt better.  Getting In: Admission to local golf courses is separately ticketed, please visit your selected golf course website for more information Windward Coast Options to Add to Your Itinerary:  Sea Life Park Hawaii  Another great destination for animal lovers in Hawaii is Sea Life Park. This delightful park features a wide variety of sea creatures, from dolphins and sea lions to dozens of local tropical fish. Encounter fascinating new creatures, enjoy educational programs, and let the kids explore the miniature play area. There are also some dining and shopping options here, if you're in search of a few key souvenirs.  Getting In: Sea Life Park Hawaii tickets are included on all Oahu passes Hanauma Bay snorkeling Snorkel in one of the most beautiful stretches of water in the entire world with a journey under the sea in Hanauma Bay. You’ll get the opportunity to swim through a gorgeous reef filled with turtles, rays, fish, and more. It’s an easy snorkeling excursion, too, suitable for amateurs and experienced snorkelers alike.  Makapu'u Lighthouse Hike This two-mile round-trip excursion is a great opportunity to roam the stunning southeastern coastline of Oahu. The Makapu’u Point Trail takes you up to a grand old historic lighthouse, with a hyper-radiant light that’s over 100 years old! A fun activity for active travelers who appreciate history.  Getting In: Makapu’u Lighthouse Hike shuttle tickets are included on all passes. Kualoa Ranch  There are so many things to do at Kualoa Ranch that you’ll run out of time before you run out of activities. Explore the jungle, take a tour of famous movie sites, visit an ancient Hawaiian fishpond and tropic garden, or relax on Secret Island Beach – you can do it all at Kualoa Ranch!  Getting In: Many activities at Kualoa Ranch are included with Oahu passes Ho'omaluhia Botanical Gardens  Located at the base of the Ko’olau Mountains, this gorgeous 400-acre botanical garden features a vast selection of native Hawaiian plants, tropical trees & flowers, and even ethnobotanical exhibits. In addition to roaming the gardens, you can also hike, bike, or camp. Nature lovers should consider this a must-visit.  Getting In: Admission to the Ho'omaluhia Botanical Gardens is free.  North Shore Options to Add to Your Itinerary: Surf Lesson While you're in Hawaii, make the most of the opportunity to learn how to participate in one of Hawaii’s most treasured pastimes. Learn how to tackle basic surfing skills under the watchful eye of your instructor. You’ll be able to catch the waves in no time!  Polynesian Cultural Center Visit one of Oahu’s best attractions and learn lots about Polynesian cultures, peoples, and history. This 42-acre marvel is filled with authentic activities and demonstrations like fire-dancing, spear-throwing, canoe rides, coconut husking, and even the Haka warrior dance.  Getting In: Polynesian Cultural Center tickets are included on all Oahu passes. Hosted at the Polynesian Cultural Center, the amazing Ali’i Luau and Dinner Show is a unique, totally Hawaiian entertainment experience that is not to be missed. As you dine upon authentic, delicious Hawaiian cuisine, you’ll be treated to the show of a lifetime. “Ha – Breath of Life” is an inspiring tale told through dance, song, and even fire knives.  Getting In: Ali’i Luau and Dinner Show is separately ticketed - check at the Polynesian Cultural Center for details. Haleiwa Art Gallery  This is one of the more popular destinations on the North Shore. Perfect for art connoisseurs or just fans of pretty things, the Haleiwa Art Gallery has been serving Oahu for years, offering beautiful and unique works of art to view or purchase. Featuring everything from glass sculptures to painting to photographs and even textiles, this gallery displays practically any media you can think of!  Getting In: Admission to the Haleiwa Art Gallery is free.  Honolulu Museum of Art  Home to 50,000 works of art and the largest showcase of visual programs in Hawaii, this place is something to behold. Inside you'll find art and textiles from Asia, Europe, and the Americas, with some pieces dating up to 5,000 years old! What's more, the museum is housed in an impressive, colonnaded villa dating from 1927.  What makes it unique is that the Honolulu Museum of Art is dedicated to the collection, preservation, interpretation, and teaching of visual arts, which means that you are in for a very informative day out!  Getting in: Admission to the Honolulu Museum of Art is free.  Leeward Coast Options to Include on Your Itinerary:  Wet n’ Wild Hawaii  With over 25 rides and attractions to enjoy, Wet n’ Wild Hawaii promises hours of fun to all. Body surf in a massive wave pool, hop aboard exhilarating rides and slides, unwind in a hot tub, and float down an 800-foot river. It’s great for adults and kids alike and is an ideal way to cool down on a hot Hawaiian day.  Getting In: Wet n’ Wild Hawaii tickets are included on all Oahu passes. Kaena Point  The spectacular views available from Kaena Point are unlike anything else on the island. You’ll see the Waianae coast (south) and Mokuleia (north), in addition to sweeping vistas of the Pacific. This is also traditionally considered a sacred spot, so a visit here is both a natural and cultural opportunity. Take a hike up the top for postcard-perfect pictures.  Getting In: Admission to Kaena Point is free.  Let's Recap  This One week in Hawaii itinerary is designed to be a great introduction to the island and a fun way to spend 7 days in and around Oahu. We hope you consider adding a few of these fun options to your upcoming Hawaiian vacation itinerary.  Looking for some shorter itinerary ideas? Read our 2 days in Oahu, or 3 days in Oahu itinerary.  Planning your Oahu trip? Discover our full line-up of Oahu attractions including the Polynesian Cultural Center, Waikiki Beach, Wet 'n' Wild Hawaii, and more. 🤩 >> If you want to see and do as much as you can, our All-Inclusive Pass is for you. 😎 >> If you want to pick just a few attractions and visit at your own pace, our Explorer Pass is the perfect option.
Katie Sagal
Blog

10+ Things to Do in Oahu in Spring 2020 - April to June Activities & More

Oahu is an excellent springtime destination for many reasons. While the weather is probably just warming up where you’re coming from, it’s perpetually warm in Oahu and they’re ready to go when it comes to outdoorsy fun. It’s also less of a busy season for American tourists in Oahu, so you’ll likely encounter fewer lines and shorter wait times for big attractions. If you’re looking for things to do in Oahu in Spring 2020, check out our list of some of the best activities and attractions, including... Hanauma Bay Snorkel Polynesian Cultural Center Diamond Head Hike Sea Life Park Hawaii and more! Save on Springtime Activities in Oahu Regular admission to a number of these attractions are available on the Go Oahu pass. Choose as you go from popular attractions and save up to 55% on combined admission vs paying at the gate. Check out all available Oahu attractions, passes, and prices. Please note, some of these special spring events may be separately ticketed and not available on the Go Oahu pass. Embark on a Snorkel Adventure Explore the Polynesian Cultural Center Enjoy the Warming Waters Play at Sea Life Park Visit the Honolulu Museum of Art Get Out and Get Active! Find Your Zen Space If you loved exploring the cultures of Polynesia, then you won’t want to miss out on learning about the Japanese heritage of Oahu as well. Visit the serene Byodo-In Temple and meditate on the nature of a global world, and soak up the peace and mindfulness that a temple nestled in the wilderness can bring. Getting In: Admission to the Byodo-In Temple is included with the Go Oahu pass. Local Events in SpringWaikiki Artfest Kapiolani Park Monthly Lei Day Celebration May 1, 2020 Kapiolani Park This annual celebration is held every year on May 1 to honor the spirit of Aloha that makes Oahu so special. Come to see these beautiful flower garlands in all their glory, and to see the new Lei Court. Featuring an impressive line-up of musical and dance performances, exhibits, and a parade and ceremony, the Lei Day Celebration is sure to please the entire family. Getting In: Admission to Lei Day is free. Remember to Save on Admission Did we miss anything? A few things to do in Oahu in the spring, including some special events, other seasonal activities in April, May, and June. Please note, the spring events taking place at some of these attractions may be separately ticketed and not available with the Go Oahu pass. We hope you consider adding some of these fun ideas to your spring vacation itinerary.
Katie Sagal

Have a 5% discount, on us!

Sign up to our newsletter and receive exclusive discounts, trip inspiration and attraction updates straight to your inbox.