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.
