One of the most popular tourist attractions in the United States, Oahu is a Hawaiian island paradise surrounded by golden sand, which leads out onto turquoise waters. If you are looking for an unforgettable Hawaii vacation, nothing beats spending a week on Oahu.
On the island of Oahu, Hawaii, Waikiki, and Honolulu, it offers a modern backdrop of attractions, restaurants, and a vibrant nightlife. Behind the horizon lie towering mountains, volcanic craters, epic coastlines and beautiful rural landscapes.
Any trip to Oahu, even if time is tight, can unleash the best of the island, offering equal opportunities for relaxation and adventure.
Not sure where to go on Oahu in one week? Plan your trip with our complete 7-day itinerary on Oahu.
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Where to go on Oahu in one week: a complete itinerary
On this one-week itinerary, you'll be able to explore every corner of Oahu, from its white sand oasis to its lush jungles. You'll have plenty of time to enjoy the best of Honolulu and Waikiki, without missing out on the hidden objects that have been found all along.
We wrote more about getting around Oahu at the end of this guide, but it can be tricky to navigate. To get the most out of this experience, it is best to rent your own car. By using your own wheels, you can spend more time enjoying the best sights on the island.
Although you won't want to leave, 7 Days on Oahu is a great time to spend on the island. With a scenic road trip to each area each day - and enough time to explore - you'll leave with all the boxes checked.
Day 1: Waikiki
After landing at Honolulu Airport, take a 45-minute flight southeast of Honolulu on your way to Waikiki. Home to the famous Waikiki Beach, the famous shoreline has long been a popular tourist destination.
In the 19th century, Waikiki was a favorite of Hawaii's high society. Later in the 20th century, the upscale Moana Surfrider opened, putting Waikiki on the road to Honolulu's tourist mecca.
Waikiki is lined with beautiful white sand beaches and waterfront restaurants. You can spend the whole day at Waikiki Beach watching the surfers roll in and out before enjoying the amazing sunset.
It's easy to get around on foot with museums and historical sites within easy walking distance and Diamond Head only a short ride away. But the first day revolves around the sun and sand. Here's where you should go:
Waikiki Beach
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One Honolulu attraction that needs a spot on your Oahu itinerary is picturesque Waikiki Beach.
And as popular as ever, it still lives up to its glamorous reputation. With the turquoise Pacific Ocean lowering toward the shore, and the city skyline hovering in the background, Waikiki Beach is a sight worth seeing. (And one of the best beaches in Honolulu!)
The beach stretches for two miles so you can venture a little further down to find your own patch of sand. From wherever you lie on the towel, you'll have great views of Diamond Head, with a chance to learn to surf at the famous Hawaiian breaks.
Kuhio Beach
Low-key Kuhio Beach is located along the main section of Waikiki Beach. Since it is away from the vibrant scenes, travelers to this part of the coastline can make the most of the shallow, calm waters. The serene nature of Kuhio Beach is an ideal place for families who can enjoy a safe swim near the beach.
The beach features many so-called swimming walls which are enclosed swimming areas ideal for young children. Most importantly, the epic views still stand and the entire beach is guarded by lifeguards. Back on the sand, you can get some shade under the swaying palms, or just hang out in the garden behind Kuhio Beach.
Kahanamoku Beach
In front of the Hilton Hawaiian Village, Kahanamoku Beach offers two options for beachgoers. On the western end of Waikiki Beach, you'll enjoy Oahu's patented white sand, crystal clear waters, and calm seas. But it is the other side of Kahanamoku Beach that separates it from the other famous beaches on the island.
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Here you will find an enclosed lake across from the beach. The man-made lake is surrounded by golden sand and offers electric blue water devoid of any lazy waves. If you are looking for a place to delve into and disconnect from the world, this is the place.
If you want to inject a little culture into your first 24 hours in Honolulu, head to downtown Honolulu to check out some of the city's cultural sites. Keep looking for top things to do in Honolulu like the Ala Moana Center, the Honolulu Museum of Art, and Iolani Palace, the only former royal palace in the United States.
Day 2: Central Oahu
Gaze into Hawaii's ancient past, on day two, make your way to central Oahu. When you leave Waikiki, you'll have a short one-hour drive towards the mountains and the island's largest port.
Without sandy beaches, central Oahu is often overlooked by travelers. But instead of driving, explore Hawaiian history, tour coffee plantations, and try the delicious local rum at KoHana Distillers.
The heart of Oahu in the Waianae Mountains offers stunning views of towering peaks and deep valleys. Among them are all the historic properties, such as the Dole Plantation and Aloha Stadium.
Pearl Harbor
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One of the main attractions not to be missed in central Oahu is Pearl Harbor. The site of this tragedy on December 7, 1941 still attracts nearly two million visitors a year, nearly eight decades later.
Visitors to Pearl Harbor will not experience just one activity or attraction. The harbor now houses a series of historical viewpoints, museums, and the opportunity to embark on ship tours.
Some tours are free and some are paid. Start at the visitor center, where you can plan your day to get the most out of the dreary and rewarding experience.
Day 3: North Beach
From Pearl Harbor National Monument, it's time to head through the mountains, or along the scenic West Coast to Oahu's North Shore.
After a day filled with farms, mountains, and history, reconnect with the stunning beaches of Oahu. Besides Waikiki, the North Shore is a hotspot and belongs on any Oahu road trip.
If you arrive between November and May, the North Shore is one of the best places to go in Oahu to join a whale watching tour or to catch surfers trying to tame the barrels at Laniakea Beach. You can also embark on one of Oahu's best hikes, a trip to Waimea Falls.
Waimea Valley
When you're not venturing out to see whales or swim ashore around Waimea Bay, head to Waimea Valley. Here you will find a beautiful tropical botanical garden and a waterfall with a large swimming hole run by lifeguards.
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That waterfall, of course, is Waimea Falls, located at the end point of one of Oahu's coolest hikes. The water flows 45 feet deep into a huge swimming hole. Jump up and cool down quickly after walking one mile.
On your way back, take some time to experience the gardens, which are home to 5,000 different species. Much of the plant life in Hawaii is endemic. You cannot find it anywhere else on earth.
Hale’iwa
Many travelers choose to stay at the Turtle Bay Resort, which is one of the few resort options on Oahu's North Shore. But for a more beach experience, relax in the sleepy beachside town of Hale'iwa. Immerse yourself in the authentic local experience close to all the attractions around the North Shore.
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The city is home to many local art galleries to explore Hawaiian culture and creativity. You are likely to come across a number of delicious food trucks on your outings around town.
Perhaps the best reason to visit, though, is that Hale'iwa is part of the Seven-Mile Miracle, a nod to the crazy surfing along the north coast.
Laniakea Beach
Located a mile north of Hale'Iwa, Laniakea Beach is a small sandy beach that's easy to miss. Also known as Turtle Beach, Laniakea is a popular place to try some of the island's best snorkeling in this 7-day itinerary.
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When the water is calm, you can make the most of the amazing clarity as you float along the surface. With your eyes peeled, look for green Hawaiian sea turtles.
But be warned: Laniakea is known for its strong current, which is part of what makes the beach one of Oahu's great surfing spots.
Day 4: South Oahu
After living the beach life on Oahu's North Shore, get up early to catch the morning sun before hitting the road to southern Oahu.
It only takes an hour of scenic drive to go from the top to the bottom of the island of Oahu. (Or just 15 minutes from Waikiki.) On the island's south shore, you can experience some of the island's best natural attractions.
South Oahu - home to the Diamond Head Crater, gorgeous beaches, golf courses, and the Koko Head Crater - is a place as outdoorsy adventures as sunbathing on the beach. And you can do it all while Waikiki and Honolulu are within walking distance.
Diamond Head
Also known as Le'ahi, Diamond Head Crater is the towering volcanic formation that dominates the surrounding horizon. From along the eastern and southern coasts, you will see its dramatic summit, one that will appear in picture after picture.
Those with an adventurous itch will be stoked to know that there is a good path that will take you to the top of Diamond Head. A 1.6-mile round trip, the Diamond Head Summit Trail reaches an elevation of 560 feet.
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On a hot day, the driveway can be a challenge. But with so many seats along the way, you'll have plenty of opportunities to catch your breath. Continue to the top for epic panoramic views of Ohio and the Pacific Ocean.
Hanauma Bay
After returning from the dizzying heights of Diamond Head, relax on your next adventure in Hanauma Bay. The bay is home to an underwater sanctuary featuring a kaleidoscope of bright colors, and is another memorable spot for snorkeling.
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Trade in your hiking boots for flippers, snorkel, and explore the Hanauma Bay Nature Reserve.
The ecosystem is based on an ancient volcanic crater, now teeming with tropical fish and pristine coral. Keep an eye out for more turtles and even reef sharks, don't worry, they are not dangerous.
Remember that the reserve is only open from 8 am to 4 pm; Make sure you give yourself plenty of time.
Koko Head Crater Trail
From Hanauma Bay, continue your journey east along the beach in southern Oahu to the Koko Head Crater Trail. After an active swim, you will be ready for a challenging journey. A steep hike up to the monumental scenery, the path follows an abandoned railway track used in World War II.
Over the course of the 1.6-mile return journey, you'll experience the real Stairmaster. The track features a total of 1,000 thigh-burning steps. You'll want to take your time, especially on hot days. But after only 100 steps, you will have great coastal views to enjoy while you catch your breath.
Makapu’u Beach Park
After a busy day in southern Oahu, with several leg-burning excursions and an amazing snorkeling excursion, treat yourself to a relaxing experience at Macabo Beach Park.
Pick up your favorite towel and beach gear from a shop along the soft white sands of Makapu'u. Once you have fully recovered from your Koko Head experience, walk around the tidal pools formed by the black lava.
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Before heading out to your accommodation for the night, visit the Macapu Point Lighthouse Trail. The walk to the Red Roofed Historic Monument is a simple two-mile return trip. Enjoy the beautiful scenery of Molokai and watch the whales.
Day 5: Inland Oahu
Enclosing the area around the Waimanalo Forest Preserve, Inland Oahu showcases some of the island's finest nature and mountainous terrain.
After exploring the coast, take a short drive north to the town of Manoa. Here, you can explore the Manoa Heritage Center and the magnificent Lyon Arboretum.
Continue up the hills to hike to Manoa Falls or hike the Lulumahu Falls Trail. For those who like to hit the waterway, Inland Oahu is also home to the scenic Royal Hawaiian Golf Club while the nearby town of Maunawili is home to Olomana Ridge.
Manoa Falls
One adventure that you must embark on when traveling through Inland Oahu is Manoa Falls. The short but sweet ride transports you to another dimension away from society as you wander through the dense bamboo forest with canopy creating a contrast of shadows and light.
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After a trek through the jungle - which is now home to guavas and wild ginger - you'll begin to hear the gentle sounds of a falling waterfall. Music is growing in earnest. Soon, you'll be standing in front of a massive 100-foot cliff with waterfalls falling. Only a mile and a half on the return trip, it's one of the easiest waterfalls to view on Oahu.
Nu‘uanu Pali Lookout
After getting back in the car after an enchanting experience at Manoa Falls, the next 5th day is the Nu'uanu Pali Lookout. From your side of the lush Ko'olau Mountains, join the Pali Highway which will take you towards the Windward Coast.
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The scenic route is one of the most unforgettable trips you will take during your trip on Oahu, as it takes you all the way to the stunning lookout area. On top of stunning rugged cliffs, you'll be where the mighty Kamehameha seized power on Oahu. (The same man eventually united all of Hawaii.)
For the viewpoint well, take in the panoramic views of the Ko'olau Range and the windswept east coast.
Day 6: Windward Coast
When you're done driving along the Bali Highway, you'll leave behind the skyscrapers of Honolulu for something even more remote, rugged, and magical. With more rain than other areas of Oahu, the Windward Coast is fertile, its mountains jutting out from the Pacific Ocean are forested and beaches shimmering under the Hawaiian sun.
A whole different world, the East Coast offers a more relaxed lifestyle, away from the high-end resorts. Here everything is normal. The beaches tend to be quieter, but no less beautiful. And a real buffet of local hiking will keep you occupied until the sun drops below the horizon.
Kailua
With soft white sand and electric blue water that can't get blue if you try, Kailua Beach is often rated as the second most beautiful beach on Oahu. (Which is a little tricky, considering that the beach next door is number one.)
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But what makes Kailua Beach worth a visit - and for some, a better beach than neighboring Lanikai Beach - is the amount of space on offer. With more fine white sand and blue water to play in, you can spread out and find your very own piece of paradise.
At Kailua Beach Park, visitors can also take advantage of the beach facilities, including showers and picnic tables.
Lanikai Beach
After spending some time in Kailua, learn about all the fuss and make your way to Lanikai Beach. After a short stroll, enjoy the shimmering sands with the clear waters hitting the coast. Take the time to enjoy the tranquility under the shady palm trees before jumping into the water yourself.
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For a great view of the Windward Coast and Lanikai Beach itself, trade the sand for dirt and hit the Pillbox Hike. The moderate two-hour trek winds through old military bunkers towards a panoramic viewpoint with views of the coast.
Kualoa Ranch
As you continue to travel around Oahu, you may feel an air of familiarity with some of the island's views. You are not crazy. Oahu is a popular filming location and its thrilling landscapes have been featured at the box office as Jurassic Park, and the show everyone loves or hates, Lost.
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Kualoa Ranch was a filming location in Jurassic Park and it's a great way to get a behind-the-scenes look at one of Hollywood's most iconic films. The farm has been owned by the same family for generations and the valley is set to be stunning.
Keep in mind that any trip to Kualoa Ranch should be on a guided tour.
Polynesian Cultural Center
If you still have time after trying Kualoa Ranch, venture up the coast to the Polynesian Cultural Centre. One of the coolest places to see on Oahu, the center celebrates the island's Polynesian culture.
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The Polynesian Cultural Center is difficult to identify as a tourist attraction because it has a little bit of everything. Explore 42 acres of tropical bliss and six Polynesian villages.
However, the most popular activity at the Polynesian Cultural Center is participating in an evening luau, including a delicious serving of traditional Hawaiian food and a cultural show.
Day 7: Leeward Coast
From the leafy Windward Coast, turn your attention to the dry and always sunny Leeward Coast on the last day of your Oahu experience. After a day trip on the other side of the Bali Highway, you will soon find yourself in a different landscape.
Less developed than Waikiki in the south, Leeward Coast features a series of off-the-beaten-track attractions, from beautiful small towns and rural landscapes to tranquil beaches that offer magical sunsets.
With two main resorts, you can choose between a rustic getaway or an upscale getaway, all while enjoying picture-perfect views.
Yokohama Beach
One of the best beaches can be found on the Leeward Coast in Yokohama Bay. On the northwest tip of Oahu, Yokohama Beach is a secluded stretch of golden sand away from the atmospheric Waikiki Beach. While many travelers sail around Oahu on their road trip, few take the short side trip to the bay. This is great news for you!
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Yokohama Beach is authentic in every sense of the word. You can enjoy the blue waters falling on the beach without seeing any development in sight. The towering Waianae mountain range creates the perfect backdrop for a perfect beach day,
Ka’ena Point Trail
If you're ready to wind down your time at Yokohama Beach or want to take a break from the shimmering beaches, take a scenic walk along Kaina Point Trail. From Yokohama Bay, take a 2.5-mile round trip to the point along alternating paths that pet the rugged coast.
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Enjoy great views of Yokohama Bay and the Waianae Coast while walking. Soon, you'll meet moon-shaped bays and reflective tidal pools before reaching Ka'ena Point. Here, you can take a walk along Keawaula Beach or check out packets of abandoned military medicine.