Oahu Itinerary

By Katie Waller

Did you know you can save up to 59% with an All-Inclusive Pass? 

If you visited the below attractions without our pass, you'd spend $582.56. With our pass, it's only $234. 

That's a total saving of $348.55.

Read on for some Oahu inspiration and discover how you can save on your sightseeing.

Oahu itinerary with Pearl Harbor

Day 1

Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum at Pearl Harbor

As the location of one of the most infamous moments in modern history, Pearl Harbor is must-see - so give yourself the morning to explore one of its museums. The Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum is a good choice. Its three galleries document the US Navy’s Submarine Force during World War II, the Cold War and beyond.

Price without a pass: $21.99

Oahu itinerary with Wet'n'Wild waterpark

Wet 'n' Wild Hawaii including Da Flowrider

After a morning of history buffing, you’ll probably be ready for something a little bit lighter. Where could be better to finish up the day than Wet ‘n’ Wild Hawaii? Whether you’re planning to hurtle down several-story-high slides, or just want to drift along a lazy river, you’re bound to have a good time here. 

Price without a pass: $79.99

Oahu itinerary with Kualoa Ranch

Day 2

Malama Experience at Kualoa Ranch

Make your way to Kualoa Ranch for a morning trolley tour of this scenic farm. You’ll learn all about the history of Oahu’s most well-preserved ancient fishponds (Moli’i) that are said to be over 800 years old, giving you an appreciation of early Hawaiian culture as you also take in the glorious tropical surrounds which boast a variety of fruits and flowers. Add to the bargain that you’ll get to sample some native treats, and you’re bound to fall for this place.

Price without a pass: $54.40

Oahu itinerary with Polynesian Cultural Centre

Polynesian Cultural Center

Next up is this immersive cultural center, where you’ll travel (metaphorically speaking) beyond Hawaii's shores and plunge yourself into the different cultures of the Pacific Islands. From Fiji to Tonga, journey through the complex of six recreated villages and experience hands-on activities and demonstrations that’ll give you a deeper understanding of Polynesia's traditions.

Price without a pass: $87.15

Oahu itinerary with Diamond Head

Day 3

Diamond Head: Shuttle & Self-Guided Hike 

Trust us, the early start is worth it to hike this incredible natural wonder. With your pass, you’ll get picked up bright and early and shuttled to the base of Diamond Head. From there, you’ll take a self-guided tour up to the crater, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the island.

Price without a pass: $44.27

Oahu itinerary with catamaran sail

Makani Catamaran Sail

After taking in those ocean views from above, where better to head to next than a luxury catamaran? Enjoy that sea breeze as you spend a couple of hours enjoying the open waters. Dolphins, sea turtles, flying fish, and even humpback whales are among the wildlife that you can spot as you sail, or you can just lie back and catch some rays on the net area.

Price without a pass: $129.80

Oahu itinerary with Moana Splash Luau

Moana Splash Luau

This coastal setting makes is the perfect spot to take in the views and immerse yourself in an award-winning show celebrating Polynesian culture. You'll get to participate in cultural activities such as lei-making, hula lessons and headband weaving. Plus, you’ll enjoy a delicious meal with the showstopper being a traditional Kalua Pig and the accompanying ‘umu uncovering ceremony. 

Price without a pass: $164.96

 

By visiting these attractions with an All-Inclusive Pass, you'll have saved 59% on your sightseeing. So, what are you waiting for? It's time to get planning that Oahu adventure now!

We calculate our savings by comparing the Go City price to the combined normal ticket values - these were last updated on April 1, 2023.

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The Honolulu Museum of Art

For anyone familiar with the art of Paul Gauguin, known for his long career spent painting the scenery and people of Tahiti, it may come as no surprise that other Polynesian locales like Hawaii are also the inspiration for exquisite works of art. But fortunately, it doesn’t take a visit to the Louvre to tour tropically-inspired paintings and photographs – our very own Oahu boasts a fine collection of art museums that host such works, including the Honolulu Museum of Art and the partner Spalding House. Travelers to Honolulu this summer looking for special artistic Oahu attractions will get a particular treat at the Honolulu Museum of Art: a one-of-a-kind special exhibit, “Georgia O’Keeffe and Ansel Adams: The Hawai’i Exhibit.” Curated with a special attention to both the divergences and similarities between their individual aesthetics, this is the first ever exhibit to combine the work of these two artistic legends in one display. The exhibit is brand new, and will run through next year, so you do have time to visit. But if you’re anything like me, you’ll want to stop by as soon as you’re in Oahu to experience this rare collection. Georgia O'Keeffe "Waterfall — No. III — Iao Valley" 1939 Now, some of you out there may be thinking – O’Keeffe and Adams were best known for their depictions of the mainland, of the sparse American southwest and rolling Midwest landscapes. And of course, these are the examples that often come to mind. But both artists had a period of time when they visited Hawaii, were drawn to its wild beauty, and created a series of works reflecting their attraction. If you think about it, it makes perfect sense. O’Keeffe’s love of the intimacy of flowers and plants, with Adams’ fascination with majestic skies and landscapes both have plenty to draw upon in the lush islands of Hawaii. On your visit to Hawaii, you’ll be just as inspired by the beauty and diversity of Oahu attractions as these artists. Georgia O'Keeffe "Black Lava Bridge, Hana Coast No. 2," 1939 O’Keeffe visited Hawaii in 1939 with the intention of creating works of art to be used in advertisements by the Dole Pineapple Company. Originally in Hawaii for business, she soon fell in love with its wilderness and found herself staying for nine weeks on several different islands. The thematic focus of her work from those nine weeks is both familiar and very different from earlier works – depicting exotic flowers, volcanic landscapes, and minute details of everyday objects. While pieces from this period in O’Keeffe’s life are located in museums across the country (including some in Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts), this curated exhibit has the 12 of the most famous of such works. Ansel Adams "Roots, Foster Garden, Hawaii," 1948 Adams visited Hawaii not long after in 1948, and also on business. Commissioned to take photographs of National Parks (an assignment also responsible for some of his iconic Yosemite photos), he was so entranced by the inhabitants and scenery of the Hawaiian Islands that he returned again on another assignment in 1957. This exhibit at the Honolulu Museum of Art showcases 56 photographs taken between those two trips, some landscapes and some portraits of people, each with Adams’ trademark starkness and austerity. The image shown here (left) is a perfect example of the ways in which Adams infused the unique flora of Hawaii with his renowned photographic aesthetic to produce a work of art so gorgeous out of something so simple as a tree root. This special exhibit is an absolute must-see Oahu attraction for art lovers – and take it from an expert, you won’t want to miss this unique collection of Hawaii-inspired art. The exhibit is available July 18, 2013 – January 12, 2014.
Katie Sagal
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Prince Kuhio Day

What better way to experience Oahu than to engage in a celebration of its rich history and tradition? Locals and tourists alike welcome the holiday each year on March 26th - the birthdate of Prince Jonah Kuhio Kalaniani’ole Piikoi. Prince Kuhio was the heir to the throne of the Kingdom of Hawaii who became the 1st Hawaiian delegate to the United States Congress. As delegate, he wrote the first Hawaii Statehood bill in 1919, and won the Hawaiian Homes Act in 1921 - which set aside 200,000 acres of land for Hawaiian Natives. Prince Kuhio Day not only honors the former royal, but it is also a love letter to the individuals and organizations that strive to perpetuate the unique Hawaiian culture and traditions. Make the most of your visit to Oahu attractions this month, and take part in the festivities. All events are free and open to the public! Prince Kuhio Commemorative Parade March 23rd, 2013 10:00am – 12:00pm Prepare to be dazzled by marching brands, drill teams, drum lines, important preservation advocates, and performers. Follow along as this magnificent parade of achievers make their way from Saratoga to Kapi’olani Park. Prince Kuhio Ho’olaule’a March 23rd, 2013 10:00am – 5:00pm With native Hawaiian arts and crafts, exhibits by Native Hawaiian organizations and businesses, and access to some amazing local cuisine, there’s something for everyone! Hawaiian musicians will provide ongoing entertainment to visitors at the Kapi’olani Park Bandstand. Prince Kuhio Choral Concert March 23rd, 2013 7:00pm - 8:30pm As a new addition to the celebration, revel in the delight of a Hawaiian a cappella performance at the Kawaiaha’o Church. The concert will feature groups such as Kawaiolaonāpūkanileo, Hawaii Youth Opera Chorus, UH Mānoa Hawaiian Chorus and the Kawaiaha`o Church Choir. Through each choral arrangement, the audience learns about historical places and prominent persons in Hawaiian history. It will celebrate compositions of Queen Lili`uokalani and arrangements of Dorothy K. Gillett. Prince Kuhio Statue Lei Draping and Services March 26th, 2012 7:30am Set your alarm extra early and head to Kuhio Beach for a traditional lei draping on Prince Kuhio’s statue in Waikiki at 7:30am, followed by a joining of esteemed Civil Clubs and Royal Societies at the Mauna’ala Royal Mausoleum by 8:30am. At this final resting place of beloved Prince Kuhio, you’ll experience Hawaiian speakers, musicians, and dancers performing for excited onlookers during this commemoration of the achievements of Prince Kuhio. Traveler Tips for Prince Kuhio Day: With your Go Oahu Card, there are dozens of opportunities to take advantage of in the midst of celebration. With a little bit of planning, you can take in the free festivities while making the most of your Go Oahu options at one low price! Ditch the rental car! Parade routes mean traffic, detours, and inconvenience. Try renting bikes instead We don't want it to rain on your parade - but in case it does, check out the Iolani Palace, where Prince Kuhio and his brothers were taken in by King and Queen Kalakaua at the advent of their mother's death in 1884. Experience the only official state residence of royalty in the United States, where the monarchy resided until it was overthrown in 1893. Another great rainy day option is to explore the city on the AlohaBus Double Decker Tour, where you will travel through Waikiki, Ala Moana, and Diamond Head while hearing fun and unique stories and facts. And the best part? The bottom floor of the bus is precipitation-free! Get to know more about Hawaiian history at the Polynesian Cultural Center. You'll experience the culture of the Pacific Islands at this 42-acre, authentic complex of recreated villages from Aotearoa, ancient Hawaii, Tahiti, Fiji, Samoa, and Tonga. Each stop provides authentic regional cuisine, demonstrations of art and dance, and hands-on activities. You can learn about Polynesian voyages, explore history exhibits, and learn most about Hawaiian beliefs and religions. To see additional details about Prince Kuhio Day, download the press release on the Association of Hawaiian Civic Clubs website. For more amazing ways to experience Oahu, check out our Go Oahu Card. Build your own pass or see it all – you decide with Smart Destinations!
Go City Expert
Hiker in the mountains of Oahu island, Hawaii.
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Day Trips from Oahu

There’s a reason Oahu is the most popular of Hawaii’s ‘big four’ islands, drawing in nearly twice the number of annual visitors as its next-nearest competitor. Sure Maui and the Big Island have their own allure – volcanic peaks, crashing waterfalls and pure white sands among them – but for sheer variety, Oahu is tough to beat. Our expert guide to the best day trips from Oahu includes household-name historic sites, awe-inspiring hikes, world-class snorkeling and pineapples so sweet you might never want to leave the plantation. No list of this island’s many attractions can ever be truly exhaustive, but our pick of some of the finest Oahu day trips are as good a place to start as any. Dive in! Historic Tour of Pearl Harbor and Honolulu What better way to understand the culture, heritage and psyche of America’s 50th state than on a day tour of its most historically significant sites. This immersive five-hour guided trip takes in the visitor center at Pearl Harbor and includes a moving film at the Pearl Harbor Memorial Theater documenting the 1941 attack that killed over 1,000 sailors and marines, thrusting the US into the Second World War. A US Navy shuttle boat will speed you out to the memorial that marks the resting place of the sunken USS Arizona battleship and you’ll also visit the National Cemetery of the Pacific in the extraordinary Punchbowl Crater on top of an extinct volcano. A drive through downtown Honolulu and its historic Chinatown district includes a stop for selfies at the highly popular 18-foot bronze statue of the legendary King Kamehameha. Makapu'u Lighthouse and Hālona Blowhole An island like Oahu practically begs to be hiked, and among its embarrassment of excellent trails Makapu’u Lighthouse is a perennial highlight. The gleaming white lighthouse with its distinctive red cap is an icon of Oahu’s windward coast, and you’ll see it on postcards and souvenirs – Makapu’u Lighthouse fridge magnet anyone? – in stores across the island. Take a stroll along the paved track and climb to the top of this 46-foot landmark, taking in unparalleled views of the Pacific, Koko Head, Koko Crater, Oahu’s entire southern coastline and perhaps even the odd migrating humpback whale or two. And, while you’re in the vicinity, don’t miss the spectacular Hālona Blowhole, a natural geyser that jets seawater up to 20 feet in the air. Hanauma Bay State Park Fine golden sands, balmy turquoise waters and some of the US’s most spectacular sealife make Hanauma Bay on the island’s southeastern tip a must-visit Oahu attraction. There’s a fee to enter the park and you’re advised to book well in advance, but boy is it worth it. Day trippers can expect to spot all manner of critters at this pristine marine ecosystem in the cone of an extinct volcano. Follow colorful yellow tangs and saddle wrasse as they dart among the reef’s many corals and keep your eyes peeled for eagle rays, green sea turtles and flamboyant spinner dolphins. You can rent snorkeling equipment for the day at the beach and in multiple other outlets nearby. Diamond Head Here’s another bucket-list biggie for all you happy hikers out there! Diamond Head is 760 feet of forested volcanic crater. Hike to its remarkable rim where views across its 3,500-foot diameter reveal panoramic vistas across Honolulu, Waikiki Beach and beyond. Named Diamond Head because bungling British sailors mistook sparkling calcite crystals in the lava rocks for something more precious, the volcano is known locally as Lē‘ahi. The name is said to have been bestowed by Hi'iaka, sister of the fire goddess Pele, thanks to the summit’s resemblance to the forehead of the ‘ahi fish. Which sounds like a Moana sequel just waiting to happen. Return shuttle trips to Diamond Head are included with the Oahu Go City attraction pass. North Shore and Dole Pineapple Plantation Think you’ve tasted pineapple? Think again. This tour of Oahu’s popular North Shore takes in photo stops at some of the island’s top beaches, offers another chance to visit our old pal King Kamehameha and gives you the opportunity to sample some of Hawaii’s finest homegrown coffee, shaved ice and macadamia nuts. But the main event on any North Shore day trip is always going to be the world-famous pineapple plantation founded by James Dole back in 1899. You’ll discover how the pineapples are planted and harvested, sample their oh-so-sweet flesh and even get one to take home with you. Commandeer a Catamaran! Boating day trips off Oahu’s Insta-perfect coastline are a great way to see a bit more of the island and maybe even spot the occasional dolphin, humpback whale or flying fish! Options range from short catamaran trips like this one to bells-and-whistles experiences aboard luxury yachts, with stops for snorkeling and lunch on deck. Make like a celeb and don your most dazzlingly white swimwear and massive morning-after sunglasses for holiday snaps that’ll be the talk of all your z-list pals back home. Waimea Valley Do you like flowers? Of course you do! Unless of course you’re allergic. In which case, you can skip this section and – achoo! – move on to the next one. Waimea Valley is a botanist’s technicolor dream come true; a sprawling 1,875-acre oasis comprised of botanical gardens, archaeological sites and a whopping great waterfall. Follow the paved trails through 35 themed gardens, marveling at more than 5,000 different tropical plant species, from delicate yellow hibiscus to towering cacti. Then cool off with a dip beneath the glorious Waimea Falls, the crowning glory of this huge natural park. More Day Trips from Oahu Finally, if you absolutely must leave this beautiful island, there are oodles of options for day trips from Oahu to neighboring Maui, Kauai and Big Island. Hit up Big Island for kayaking and swimming on the peaceful Umauma River and trips to the awesome Volcanoes National Park and towering Rainbow Falls. Maui is the place for sunset dinners accompanied by traditional music and fire dancers. Or brave the Hanapepe Swinging Bridge and go ziplining over the sugar plantations on Kauai. Save on activities and attractions in Oahu Save on admission to Oahu attractions with Go City. Check out @GoCity on Instagram for the latest top tips and attraction info.
Stuart Bak

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