Things to Do in Oahu in Summer 2020 - Attractions, Activities & More

UPDATED JULY 2024
By Katie Sagal

Oahu is a tropical paradise year-round, but it's no surprise that it’s still a popular destination in the summertime. From sunny beaches with gentle waves to exotic ocean life, the great outdoors in Hawaii is a thing of beauty. This year, there are plenty of festivals, summer events, attractions, tours, and more to enjoy in addition to your quality beach time. If you’re planning to visit and are looking for things to do in Oahu in summer 2020, check out our list of the top attractions and activities going on this year, including...

  • Sunset Dinner Sail on Makani Catamaran
  • Picnic on the Pier at the Mighty Mo
  • Snorkeling in Hanauma Bay
  • Hike Diamond Head Crater
  • Polynesian Cultural Center
  • and more...

Heading to the area to celebrate Independence Day? Then check out our post on things to do in Oahu 4th of July Weekend. Coming to the island over Labor Day weekend? Here are a few fun things to do in Oahu Labor Day Weekend - enjoy!

Save on Summertime Activities

Regular admission to a number of these attractions is 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 Oahu tourist passes, attractions and prices. Please note, some of these special summer events may be separately ticketed and not available on the Go Oahu pass.

Sunset Dinner Sail on Makani Catamaran

crystalline-water-ocean-blue-sky

Experience one of the most quintessential Hawaiian vacation activities and set sail on the Pacific Ocean for an island-style dinner with a complimentary drink and an unforgettable view of the Hawaiian sunset. You’ll get to see the sunset over the azure coastal waters with the picturesque landscape of the Hawaiian Islands in the backdrop. This is perfect for those romantic getaways or relaxing summer vacations. Getting In: Sunset Dinner Sail tickets are available as a premium attraction option with the 3-, 5-, and 7-Day Go Oahu passes.

Snorkeling in Hanauma Bay

snorkelling-among-coral-reef-hanauma-bay

Snorkel the bright coral reef of Hanauma Bay and have the time of your life this summer. It's one of the most popular things to do on many bucket lists and is also just a fantastic thing to do in the sunshine. Meet turtles, rays, and tropical fish, and observe stunning coral and water plants through pristine waters. This gorgeous nature preserve is the perfect place to snorkel, whether you’re new to the game or an experienced pro. You could also opt for a more in-depth snorkeling adventure, which escorts you along a delightful hidden gems tour of Oahu, before letting you loose to snorkel the North Shore alongside magnificent sea turtles. Getting In: Hanauma Bay Snorkeling tickets are included with the Go Oahu pass. Oahu Hidden Gems Tour + Snorkeling with Turtles tickets are available as a premium attraction option with the 3-, 5-, and 7-Day Go Oahu passes.

Polynesian Cultural Center

polynesia-culture-dance-festival

A visit to the Polynesian Cultural Center is the perfect Oahu destination for those of you looking to immerse yourselves in Hawaiian culture and heritage. Explore historic and modern Polynesia as you journey through six separate regions, witnessing demonstrations, performances, craftwork, dancing, spear-throwing, and more. Stick around later for an authentic luau, if you'd really like a taste of traditional Hawaiian culture. This particular luau includes a beautiful song and dance performance that you'll never forget, so it's definitely worth waiting for. Getting In: Polynesian Cultural Center tickets are included with the Go Oahu pass. Ali`i Luau + Admission to Polynesian Cultural Center tickets are available as a premium attraction option with the 3-, 5-, and 7-Day Go Oahu passes.

Explore Waimea Valley

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If you’re looking for paradise, you’ll find it in Waimea Valley (probably one of our favorite places to visit Oahu during the summer season). Nearly 2,000 acres of lush wilderness, parks, hiking trails, waterfalls, botanical gardens, and more await at this popular tropical oasis. You’ll even get the chance to explore several archaeological sites. Go swimming, hiking, or just stroll around to enjoy the scenery and wildlife. Getting In: Waimea Valley tickets are included with the Go Oahu pass.

Hike Diamond Head Crater

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If you’re looking for an enjoyable hike that’s not too challenging but still provides an unmissable payoff, consider a hike to Diamond Head. Choose an option that provides a shuttle to the starting point to avoid the stress of Oahu traffic and parking. This volcanic crater is so named because its glittering façade looked like diamonds to early explorers. Today, it’s one of the most photographed sites in Oahu and is arguably the most famous volcanic crater on earth. Another fun hiking option is the Makapu'u Point Hike, which allows you to trek out to this historic lighthouse with its distinctive hyper-radiant lens. Keep your eyes peeled for humpback whales from the viewpoint before marveling at the Halona Blowhole that shoots water up to 20 feet in the air. Getting In: Diamond Head Hike tickets and Makapuu Lighthouse & Halona Blowhole Tour tickets are both included with the Go Oahu pass.

Secret Island Beach

aerial-view-secet-island-on-oahu

If sun and sand are really what you’re after, then you want to hit up Secret Island Beach. Located at Kualoa Ranch on the Kaneohe Bay, this stunning beach is the perfect place to just sit back and enjoy the summer weather. Or, you can choose to be active and do anything from canoeing and kayaking to volleyball and Ping-Pong. It's the perfect way to spend a luxurious beachy afternoon! Keep in mind that because this beach is popular, so visitors are limited to three-hour sessions. Getting In: Secret Island Beach tickets are included with the Go Oahu pass.

Pearl Harbor Historic Sites & Picnic on the Pier

aerial-view-pearl-harbor-oahu

The Pearl Harbor Historic Sites are arguably the most popular collection of attractions in all of Oahu because of their significant historical value. Visit the USS Bowfin Submarine, one of the few surviving combat submarines from WWII. Here you'll find the Waterfront Memorial, Regulus I cruise missile and Japanese Kaiten torpedo. Next take a stroll on the deck of the Battleship Missouri, or "Mighty Mo," where the Surrender Deck marks the official end of WWII. Make sure to check their summer calendar for the annual 'Picnic on the Pier' event, featuring lives music, fun activities, and prizes. Bring a picnic and blanket and chairs, or purchase food and drink on-site! Finally, tour the amazing USS Arizona Memorial, which commemorates the lives lost on that fateful day in December of 1941. Getting In: USS Bowfin Submarine tickets, Battleship Missouri tickets, and USS Arizona Memorial Narrated Tour tickets are all included with the Go Oahu pass.

Iolani Palace

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Home to the Hawaiian kingdom’s last two monarchs, Iolani Palace is a beautiful example of ornate “American Florentine” architecture. It’s filled with artifacts, furniture, and décor from the late nineteenth century and showcases the last days of the Hawaiian monarchy in exquisite detail. A great find for history buffs! They also host the Prince Lot Hula Festival in July (see more on that below). Getting In: Iolani Palace tickets are included with the Go Oahu pass.

Honolulu Museum of Art

Paradise inspires a lot of great art (just ask Georgia O'Keeffe), and the Honolulu Museum of Art sure has a lot to show for it. Featuring one of the best collections of Asian art and artifacts in the country, this museum includes over 16,000 pieces from China, Japan, Korea, Southeast Asia, and India. A visit here is another way to immerse yourself in local heritage and to expand your horizons. Some special exhibitions open during the summer include Presence: African American Artists from the Museum’s Collection (March 04 - July 05, 2020); O Kalani: Sean K.L. Browne and Imaikalani Kalahele (April 11 - August 09, 2020); and Utagawa Kunisada and the Spectacle of Kabuki Set Design (May 30 - July 26, 2020). Getting In: Honolulu Museum of Art tickets are included with the Go Oahu pass.

King Kamehameha Floral Parade

Waikiki June 13, 2020

This year marks the 104th anniversary of this favorite local parade. It celebrates the reign of King Kamehameha, who united the Hawaiian Islands in the late eighteenth century. Enjoy vibrant floats, talented performers, amazing musical groups, and more. Stick around for the festival afterward! Getting In: The King Kamehameha Floral Celebration is free to attend.

Prince Lot Hula Festival

Iolani Palace July 18 - 19, 2020

As you may have guessed, this delightful festival is dedicated to the fine Hawaiian art of hula dancing. This is the largest non-competitive hula event in the state and is an excellent opportunity to see both modern and traditional iterations of this amazing art form. The event is held within the grounds of the historic Iolani Palace where troupes of hula dancers perform for spectators, showcasing their talents in this traditional dance. You’ll enjoy spotlights on Native Hawaiian culture through crafts, games, and more. A great family event. Getting In: The Prince Lot Hula Festival is free to attend.

Haleiwa Arts Festival Summer ArtFest

Haleiwa Beach Park July 2020 (Dates TBC)

If you love art, then this is the event for you. It’s filled with locals artists, musicians, dancers, storytellers, artisans, and much more. Artists hail from Oahu, the other Hawaiian islands, the mainland, and beyond. You’ll be able to observe their works and even purchase unique pieces for your home or as gifts. Getting In: The Haleiwa Arts Festival is free to attend.

Duke’s OceanFest

Waikiki August 15 - 25, 2020

Duke’s is truly a summer event, dedicated to exciting watersports from around the globe, including the quintessentially Hawaiian art of surfing. This lengthy festival features a variety of exhilarating competitions, from surfing and swimming to standup paddling and beach volleyball. This festival is held in honor of the Olympian Duke Paoa Kahanamoku, called the greatest Hawaiian waterman who ever lived. Getting In: Duke's OceanFest is free to attend, although registration is required to participate in certain sporting events.

Let's Recap

So there you have it. Our picks for some of the top things to do in Oahu in the summer. Please note, the summer events taking place at some of these attractions may be separately ticketed and not included with the Go Oahu pass. Plan to visit some of these top attractions during your trip. Whether you are traveling with your family or a couple of friends, we're sure you will have a great time.

Katie Sagal
Go City Travel Expert

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Things to do in Oahu and Hawaii in February

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Outdoor Activities Oahu

Facts first: there’s no U.S. state quite like Hawaii. Home to its state capital, the island of Oahu has served as a delightful tourist haven for generations – and with good reason! Well-recognized for its year-round warm weather and tropical beauty, Oahu is a remarkable destination for recreation and exploration. The natural attributes of the area attract all types of travellers looking to make memories for years to come. For nature lovers and adventurous types, the island is a fantastic wonderland of opportunity. Visitors looking for fun water activities will feel more than content with the options available. Or, if you just want to take some time to yourself, Oahu’s sugar-sand beaches would serve you well. So, if you’re planning to make your way to Oahu and aren’t quite sure where to start, have a read through our list of the best things to do in the area! Whatever you choose to do, we’re sure it’ll be great. See the Sites Those looking to get in touch with Mother Nature will love Oahu for its paradisal beaches and tropical rainforests. As one of the area’s most popular tourist attractions, the Manoa Falls Trail offers a scenic day trip that’s sure to blow you away. Mostly shaded by a wealth of remarkable trees and running for a relatively short distance in comparison to other trails in the area, this is usually considered to be one of the easier hikes in Oahu. Still, we always recommend wearing appropriate footwear and bringing plenty of water for the trip. Along the route, you’ll encounter magnificent eucalyptus trees, banyan trees, and a wide variety of tropical flowers. The crown jewel of the hike is, of course, Manoa Falls, a captivating waterfall cascading 150 feet down into a shimmering rock pool. A thoroughly rewarding visual and physical experience, this one should rank right at the top of your itinerary. Just remember to bring a camera – you won’t want to miss taking snaps of this one! Another one of our favorite things to do in the great outdoors in Oahu is walk the Diamond Head Trail. First built in 1908, the route was initially utilized as part of the island’s military defense system. Since then, the trail has become one of Oahu's top visitor attractions, drawing in thousands of visitors each day – and it’s easy to see why. At 560 feet high, this can sound like a pretty strenuous walk – but trust us when we say that the views are beyond worth it. Don’t worry if you’re not the most experienced hiker, since there are places to stop and rest your weary feet along the way. We strongly recommend taking plenty of water and sunscreen with you. At the top, you’ll be rewarded for all your hard work with spectacular views of Honolulu, as well as the site’s famous volcanic tuff cone. Perfect for those looking to take a break from the city, this trail provides the ultimate one-of-a-kind experience in nature. Find Fun Activities If you’re looking for something a little different, look no further than Kualoa Ranch. Situated on Oahu’s windward side, this private nature reserve and working cattle ranch showcases the area’s tropical beauty in all its unique glory. Covering over 4, 000 acres of stunning forests and majestic peaks, the area is a fantastic stop for outdoor enthusiasts. Unlike some of the other items on our list, this place provides a wide variety of activities catering to all sorts of travellers, making it great for large groups. To get your adrenaline pumping, zoom through the forest on zip lines. For something a little bit more low-key, take a hike to learn more about the native Hawaiin plants thriving in the area. Or, if you’re a movie fan, check out the Hollywood movie site tours (over fifty movies and shows, including Jurassic Park, Lost and 50 First Dates were shot here!) However you decide to enjoy your time here, this popular scenic attraction is well worth the visit. Whilst Oahu is known for its beautiful scenery, its wildlife is not to be missed. Named for the large number of green sea turtles which inhabit its waters, Turtle Canyon is one of the best places to go snorkelling in the area. Whilst the name of the canyon promises turtles galore, you’re also likely to see whales, dolphins, and colorful reef fish on the excursion. We especially love this spot since it provides a great way to see marine life without disturbing the animals' lifestyles or habitat. Don’t worry if you’ve never snorkelled before – you'll be accompanied by a professional guide to help. The crystal-clear waters and tropical fish sightings set this trip apart from many other wildlife trips. A truly special experience, this fun-filled eco-tour is a great choice for all animal lovers. Take it Easy! For those who like to take it easy, the KCC Farmers’ Market is the perfect place to spend a lazy Saturday morning with your loved ones. Always a good choice, this vibrant market is bursting with the colors of locally grown produce, flowers, pantry items, and more. Still, the main draw of this market has got to be its popular restaurant pop-ups, serving delicious food with a smile and an aloha. With over 80 participating vendors to choose from, there’s a little something for everybody here. Snack on freshly popped kettle corn as you browse. Dig into a twelve-hour roasted brisket pho from The Pig and the Lady. And to wash it all down, try a Hawaiin coffee. Lively and filled with culture, the market provides a great way to learn more about the area. With its fun, laid-back energy and so much on offer, we couldn’t think of a better way to satisfy our Hawaiin food cravings. Living up to its nickname, ‘’The Gathering Place’’, Oahu is one of America’s favorite tourist attractions. Boasting sun-soaked beaches and stunning forests, the island presents a wealth of exciting outdoor activities to choose from. Whether you’re looking to zip through the trees on ziplines or take it slow at the farmers’ market, you’re sure to find something to suit your tastes. Explore Oahu to its fullest with Go City’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
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Things to do in Honolulu Oahu

Nestled right along the southeastern shore of Oahu, Honolulu has long been one of America’s most beloved tourist hotspots. A town of sun-soaked beaches, captivating scenery, and seaside cocktail shacks, the capital of Hawaii draws in millions of visitors each year – and it’s easy to see why. Still, there’s a lot more to love about the city than its laid-back beach vibes. One of the reasons why Honolulu is such a great place to visit is because it offers so much to explore. Whether you’re looking to see Diamond Head, explore ʻIolani Palace, or just simply kick back at Waikiki Beach, you’re sure to find something to suit you. If you’re planning to make the visit, have a read through our list of the best places to discover in the area. Whatever you choose to do, we promise you won’t leave disappointed! Explore the Area With its beautiful beaches and tropical rainforests, Honolulu is the perfect destination for all nature lovers. To soak up the true beauty of the area, we strongly recommend checking out the Manoa Falls Trail. Offering a paradisial retreat in nature, this stop is one of Honolulu’s most popular tourist attractions, period. Along the route, you’ll no doubt be wowed by the beautiful vegetation which flourishes from all angles. This is also generally considered to be one of the city’s easier hiking trails, taking around an hour to complete. However, it can get pretty slippery along the way, so we suggest wearing appropriate footwear for the occasion. The path culminates at Manoa Falls, a 150-foot waterfall, plummeting into a gleaming rock pool. Though it’s off-limits for visitors to swim in the pool, the breathtaking view and refreshing mists make the journey more than worth it. If you’re looking to spend time in the great outdoors, there’s no better place to be than Honolulu. For a fantastic day trip to remember, you couldn’t do much better than the Diamond Head Trail. Originally constructed in 1908, the route was developed as part of Oahu’s coastal defense system. Today, this U.S. National Natural Monument welcomes thousands of visitors each day as one of the island’s most iconic tourist attractions. At 560 feet high, this trail might sound pretty daunting to some – but at just 0.8 miles long, it's actually a pretty short climb. Along the route, you’ll catch stunning views of the city from way up high. The crown jewel of the Diamond Head Trail is, of course, its famous volcanic tuff cone after which the hike is named. A defining feature of the city and a total sight to behold, this natural wonder is well worth the journey. Don’t forget to bring a camera – you'll definitely want to get some snaps of this! Get Cultured Though Honolulu is perhaps best known for its golden beaches and cascading waterfalls, there’s so much more to be discovered. Trust us when we say that there’s a lot to love about the city. Those looking for history and culture in Hawaii’s capital will be more than happy with what the area has to offer. Located just downtown, ʻIolani Palace makes an ideal tourist attraction both for its unique structure and fascinating background. Exhibiting a distinctive blend of Italian Renaissance and Hawaiin architecture, the palace is known for its design, which cannot be found anywhere else in the world. Visitors should take time to appreciate its beautiful stonework outside. Upon entrance, you’ll be able to enjoy its rich interiors, including a breathtaking koi staircase, preserved furniture, and portraits of Hawaiin royalty. You’ll also be led by a tour guide, so you can learn more about the history of the building and the royal and governmental figures who called the palace home. Utterly magnificent and dreamlike, this place should rank right at the top of your itinerary. For those interested in learning more about the history of the area, don’t worry – we've got you covered. Originally named for the wealth of pearl oysters found within its protected waters, Pearl Harbor is the state’s largest natural harbor and a popular tourist experience for many. Well-suited to visitors with a thirst for knowledge, this famous lagoon harbor is of course known for its tragic past which changed the course of history. Today, it is one of the top visitor destinations in Oahu, with millions coming from all over the globe to see the site of the surprise attack and its collection of memorials and war museums. Whether you’re a history buff, or just plain curious, you’ll find that there’s plenty to see and do here. Tour the USS Missouri Battleship, which is famous for bringing WWII to its end in 1945. Hear first-hand stories from those who survived the attacks on Battleship Row. Walk through an airplane hangar pierced with bullet holes from the battle. As fascinating as it is moving, this stop is a fantastic educational experience for those of all ages. Relax! Of course, a trip to Honolulu wouldn’t be complete without hitting the beach! Stretching for two full miles along the south Oahu coast, Waikiki Beach has long served as the perfect stop for recreation and relaxation. Going way back to the 1800s, you could even find Hawaiin royalty trying their hand at longboarding here. Today, the beach lives up to its Hawaiin name, meaning ‘’spouting waters’’, with its rolling surf and salt-sprayed shores making it one of the biggest draws of the city. Among the various things to do here, you’ll find that Waikiki beach is a pretty popular destination for swimming, surfing, snorkelling, and more. Dotted along the beachfront, there are countless restaurants, stores and bars. Comes nightfall, the fun never stops coming in Waikiki since it's such a big tourist hotspot. Whether you’re looking to catch some rays, try your hand at a new water sport, or just simply grab a drink, this place truly does have it all. Vibrant and bursting with culture, Hawaii’s state capital never fails to impress. The best things to do in Honolulu run the gamut – from seriously beautiful to fantastically educational, you’ll be spoiled for choice here. For sunseekers and anybody looking to take a break, the city’s idyllic beaches are where you’ll want to be. Still, anybody with even a cursory interest in history and culture should make time to see the sites. With fantastic attractions like ʻIolani Palace. Diamond Head, and Pearl Harbor, you’ll be glad you did! To find out how to save money on your trip, check out our Explorer Pass and All-Inclusive Pass. For more details, make sure to connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
Sarah Harris

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