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

UPDATED JULY 2024
By Katie Sagal
Oahu

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.

 

hawaii

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.

Diamond Head hike

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.

Waikiki Beach

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.

Battleship Missouri

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.

USS Bowfin

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

Hawaii golf course

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. 

Hanauma Bay

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.

Makapu'u Lighthouse

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

Kuala Ranch

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! 

Surfing in Hawaii

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.

Hula

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. 

Honolulu Museum of Art

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.

Wet n Wild Hawaii

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
Go City Travel Expert

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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.
Sarah Harris
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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
Surfer awaiting big wave
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Things to do in Oahu and Hawaii in February

The Hawaiian islands are at perhaps their least crowded in February, making this a great time to visit. Experience traditional Polynesian luaus, catch a wave at the North Shore and check out some of Hawaii’s most popular attractions, all without having to jockey for position with the swelling summer crowds. Read on for our guide to all the best things to do in Oahu and Hawaii in February.
Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak

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