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

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

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Sunset Dinner Sail on Makani Catamaran

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

Snorkeling in 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

Polynesian Cultural Center

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

beautiful-green-path-wild-forest-waimea

Explore Waimea Valley

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

aerial-view-diamond-head-crater-waikiki

Hike Diamond Head Crater

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

Secret Island Beach

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

Pearl Harbor Historic Sites & Picnic on the Pier

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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Iolani Palace

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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Best Time to Visit Oahu

Perhaps no other state in America is recognized for its natural beauty in quite the same way as Hawaii. With that said, it's not surprising that Oahu is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the U.S. of A., drawing in over 10 million visitors each year. Known as the ‘’Heart of Hawaii’’, this bustling visitor hotspot presents activities and attractions for every kind of inclination, easily rivalling the likes of New York City, Los Angeles and Chicago. From the island’s beautiful beaches and hiking trails to fantastic cultural amenities and hidden gems, you’ll never run out of interesting things to do here. Trust us when we say that you’ll never regret a trip to Oahu! Still, making your way to a new destination can be a little daunting for some folks – so, you might just be wondering, where do I start? Well, right here of course! If you’re planning a trip to Oahu and aren’t sure about when would be the best time to visit, don’t worry – we've done the heavy lifting for you! Keep scrolling to learn more. November Hawaii is one of the most beautiful places to visit. With its sun-soaked beaches and fantastic cultural attractions, it’s no wonder that Oahu has long served as the epicenter of American tourism. For those who are looking to beat the heat, November is a good choice since it’s after hurricane season. Temperatures should be a little lower around this time of the year, making it a little more comfortable to explore – don't worry though, it’s still warm enough to enjoy most of Oahu’s key outdoor attractions! You might find that there are fewer festivals and events taking place throughout the month, but if comfort is what you’re looking for, this is the time to go. Visiting Oahu during this time of the year is also a good idea since it’s during low season, meaning that the island should be less crowded. During the slowest months of tourism, you should be able to get some great deals for accommodation, dining and airfares. In fact, there are so many benefits to going in November, it’s difficult to list all of them! June Known for its tropical climate and beautiful scenery, Oahu presents a myriad of fantastic outdoor activities for those of all ages. If you’re looking to take advantage of the beautiful weather, we recommend heading over there in June, since you’ll be working with a light breeze, very little rain, and the longest sunshine hours of the year. For sunseekers and adventurous types alike, June is a great choice, since the weather is unlikely to get in your way. A further advantage of visiting the island during this time is that it should be less crowded and chaotic. Also note that June has lower hotel rates and airfare prices, since it’s still pre-peak season. Still, to ensure availability, make sure to book rooms and flights well in advance. Perfect for those looking for the ultimate summertime in Hawaii experience sans all the hustle and bustle, June is the way to go. July – August Bold and beautiful, Oahu is most certainly no wallflower. For those who want to be in the center of all the action, we suggest going during high season – that is, from July through to August. During this time of the year, the weather is at its absolute best, making it perfect for snorkelling and soaking up the sun. Since this is Oahu’s busiest time of the year for tourism, you’ll find a lot of activities and events to check out. From art and film festivals to authentic luaus, this period is good to try almost anything. If you’re a creative type, Honolulu Museum of Arts’s Summer Nights might just be your jam. For cinephiles and lovers of pop culture, we recommend checking out Sunset on the Beach, where you can catch a movie with the wondrous backdrop of the ocean. And for something a little different, Comic-Con Honolulu is the perfect choice. The only downside of visiting from July through to August is that it can be one of the most expensive times of the year, so take that well into consideration before booking. September With its laid-back energy and rich cultural heritage, Oahu is a location with universal appeal. If you’re looking to enjoy the island’s famous tropical weather, we suggest visiting during the month of September. Going into autumn, Hawaiin weather remains fantastic with clear blue skies, warm ocean temperatures, and balmy evenings. The best things to do during the month of September run the gamut – from great nature hikes and historic tours to snorkelling and surfing, the list is pretty much endless. The benefit of travelling during this time of the year is that it will be less crowded. Still, since September runs off from high season, festivals and events are plentiful. Additionally, both airfare and accommodation tend to be cheaper around early autumn. All in all, September is one of the best months of the year to visit, since you’ll get to catch some rays without the hefty price tag. March Never one to blend into the background, Hawaii is characterized by its picturesque scenery and unique cultural background. For those who are attracted to idea of visiting when it's busy, we suggest booking around March. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a culture vulture, or a foodie, you’re sure to find something to suit your tastes. In addition, March is a great time to visit for humpback whale watching, since these majestic creatures migrate to the warmer waters to birth and nurse their young. Those who are drawn to a Hawaiin vacation for the weather will enjoy March for its beautiful sun-filled days. Still, the evenings can get a little chilly – we suggest bringing a light jacket to keep comfortable. Although March is one of the more popular times to visit Oahu, its hotel prices don’t climb above the annual average. Win-win! With its perennial warm weather and palm tree-fringed beaches, one could argue that’s there’s no bad time to visit Oahu. Really, there’s only a time that’s right for you. Explore the island 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.
Sarah Harris
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5 Days in Oahu

Hawaii’s cultural capital and a picture of paradise for many, Oahu draws in millions of visitors each year. Known around the world for its tropical beauty, this popular tourist hotspot often elicits the image of sun-soaked beaches and breathtaking greenery. Still, the island is so much more than just a pretty face – trust us when we say that you’ll find no shortage of interesting activities to do there. Whether you’re looking to hike one of the area’s wonderful nature trails, have a blast at the luau, or kick back at the beach with a pina colada, you’ll never be bored here. Whilst a trip to Oahu is a dream come true for many, trying to fit it all in can seem a little bit daunting. But don’t worry! We’ve spent a lot of time in the area and are sharing our favorite things to do in Oahu to help you plan the perfect trip. Follow our guide for 5 Days in Oahu, and you should be well on your way! Day 1 - Get Settled Since travelling can be a little tiring for most visitors, we’ve decided to start our itinerary off with something to help you get that energy back – and where else better to be for relaxation than Oahu? Stretching for two full miles along the south Oahu coastline, Waikiki Beach is the epicenter of tourism in Hawaii. With its sugar-sand shores and gentle surf, this spot delivers the perfect postcard picture of the ultimate Hawaii beach experience. Among the various things to do here, you’ll find that sailing, windsurfing, kayaking and snorkelling are all popular activities. Whilst this place is one of Oahu’s most popular tourist attractions, you’ll still be able to find areas that are more secluded if what you’re looking for is a moment of quiet in the sun. Come nightfall, the surrounding area is great for its vibrant nightlife – we recommend sticking around to check out the fantastic restaurants, waterside cocktail bars, and hula shows. Forever fun and with so much to do, Waikiki Beach is no doubt a great stop for your first day here! Day 2 - See the Sites Waking up good and refreshed for your second day on the island, you should be able to take on anything – including the Diamond Head Trail. First built in 1908, the route was once used as part of Oahu’s military defense system. Today, this rugged hiking trail is one of Oahu’s most popular visitor sites, drawing thousands of visitors each day – and who are we to argue with that many people? Standing at 560 feet tall, it might seem like a lot to take on – however, the route usually takes around an hour to complete (depending on your level of fitness). We always recommend that you bring plenty of water with you and wear appropriate walking shoes. If you’re worried about it, just remember that there are many places to stop and rest along the way! Offering panoramic 360-degree views of Honolulu and natural wonders to be discovered, this National Natural Landmark is thoroughly worth checking out. Day 3 - Get Cultured Though Oahu is known for its beautiful beaches and tropical greenery, its cultural amenities are not to be missed. For visitors with a thirst for knowledge, Pearl Harbor offers a fantastic educational experience for those of all ages. Whilst the harbor was originally named for its wealth of pearl oysters found within its protected waters, it is of course now known for the tragic events which took place on the 7th December 1941, claiming thousands of lives. Today, the attraction serves as an important learning tool and a quiet place for contemplation. Amongst the many things to do there, you’ll find memorials and war museums commemorating one of the most pivotal moments in U.S. history. As one of the island's top visitor destinations, this place can get pretty crowded – we recommend going early in the morning, so you’ll feel less overwhelmed. As moving as it is fascinating, we love this place because it’s impossible to leave without having learned something new. Day 4 - Explore It’d just be wrong to visit Hawaii without making the most of its stunning natural wonders. To truly appreciate the beauty of the area, we recommend walking the Manoa Falls Trail. Often topping the travel bucket list for visitors to the island, this tropical forest hike should rank right at the very top of your itinerary. Along the route, you’ll be surrounded by magnificent eucalyptus trees, banyan trees, and native flora. Running at 1.6 miles long, this trail is considered to be easy enough for beginners, usually taking around an hour to complete. At the end of the hike, you’ll be rewarded for all your hard work with unbeatable views of Manoa Falls, a 150-foot waterfall ebbing and flowing into a gleaming rock pool. Offering a peaceful retreat in nature, we couldn’t think of a better way to spend a sunny day in Hawaii. Remember to bring your phone, so you can capture some wonderful snaps of this! Day 5 - Have a Blast! What better way to end a trip to Hawaii than with a big bombastic laua? For the most authentic experience, we suggest heading over to the Polynesian Cultural Center, which was voted the #1 attraction in Hawaii by USA Today. Set against the backdrop of waterfalls, beautiful greenery, and a peaceful lagoon, the award-winning Ali’i Luau is the most popular choice for visitors. Dive into an all-you-can-eat Polynesian buffet with a spectacular evening show. Sound good, right? Still, that’s not all there is to see here. For those who are curious about the history and culture of Oahu, this is the place to be. Have a blast whilst learning more about the South Pacific through a wide range of activities. From canoeing and ukulele lessons to spear throwing and even tattooing, there’s plenty to see and do here. Exciting and full of life, you won’t regret making this your last stop in Oahu. Well, what else can we say? We love Oahu! Though five days might not seem like much time, with the right planning, you should be able to have your dream vacation! 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.
Sarah Harris
Humpback whale breaching beside a sightseeing boat
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Things to do in Oahu and Hawaii in January

January is a fine time to visit the Hawaiian islands, with pleasant temperatures, lower prices, and fewer crowds on the beaches and at major attractions including Pearl Harbor and the wondrous Waimea waterfalls. Read on for our guide to the best of Oahu and Hawaii in January…
Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak

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