Oahu is the most-visited island in Hawaii. This means it’s more “touristy” than other Hawaiian islands, but don’t let this deter you from visiting Oahu. This island is absolutely worth a trip, especially if you get off the beaten path.
Whatever kind of adventure you want, this travel guide has everything you need to plan an incredible trip to Oahu!
When To Go
Oahu has two peak travel seasons. Mid-June to August has the driest and warmest weather of the year, which means prices and tourist numbers will be at their highest everywhere on the island. So book your accommodation, rental cars, and tours in advance to save some money and ensure availability.
Mid-December – early April is a peak season for the North Shore because of the world-class swells and professional surfing events. If you want to save money and avoid some crowds, you could stay in the Waikiki Beach area during these months and visit the North Shore as a day trip.
The year-round warm weather means Oahu doesn’t have an off-season. But mid-April to early June and September to mid-December are shoulder seasons when you can score some excellent (by Hawaii standards) accommodation and airfare deals. Rain is more common during these months, but these afternoon showers usually blow through quickly and rarely affect tours or activities.
What To Do
-Go on a scenic drive along the North Shore that includes stops at Kahuku Point, Ehukai Beach (where the Banzai Pipeline is), Waimea Bay Beach Park, and Matsumoto’s Shave Ice.
-Go outrigger canoe surfing.
-See a luau.
-Sail and snorkel or dive along the coast.
Getting Around
A car is essential on Oahu. Many tour companies provide transportation to and from guided tours, and taxis and rideshares are common in Waikiki Beach and Honolulu. You can also hire drives. But these can be expensive.
So if you’re going to leave your hotel more than a couple of times (which I highly recommend!), then a rental car can save you money. Plus, a rental car gives you flexibility over your itinerary and room to store and transport your belongings.
I spent five days on Oahu with a rental car and drove all over the island. But because the island is so small, I only had to fill up my tank once.
Where To Stay
Where To Eat
Plan The Rest of Your Trip
Oahu is the most-visited island in Hawaii. This means it’s more “touristy” than other Hawaiian islands, but don’t let this deter you from visiting Oahu. This island is absolutely worth a trip, especially if you get off the beaten path.
Whatever kind of adventure you want, this travel guide has everything you need to plan an incredible trip to Oahu!
When To Go
Oahu has two peak travel seasons. Mid-June to August has the driest and warmest weather of the year, which means prices and tourist numbers will be at their highest everywhere on the island. So book your accommodation, rental cars, and tours in advance to save some money and ensure availability.
Mid-December – early April is a peak season for the North Shore because of the world-class swells and professional surfing events. If you want to save money and avoid some crowds, you could stay in the Waikiki Beach area during these months and visit the North Shore as a day trip.
The year-round warm weather means Oahu doesn’t have an off-season. But mid-April to early June and September to mid-December are shoulder seasons when you can score some excellent (by Hawaii standards) accommodation and airfare deals. Rain is more common during these months, but these afternoon showers usually blow through quickly and rarely affect tours or activities.
What To Do
-Go on a scenic drive along the North Shore that includes stops at Kahuku Point, Ehukai Beach (where the Banzai Pipeline is), Waimea Bay Beach Park, and Matsumoto’s Shave Ice.
-Go outrigger canoe surfing.
-See a luau.
-Sail and snorkel or dive along the coast.
Getting Around
A car is essential on Oahu. Many tour companies provide transportation to and from guided tours, and taxis and rideshares are common in Waikiki Beach and Honolulu. You can also hire drives. But these can be expensive.
So if you’re going to leave your hotel more than a couple of times (which I highly recommend!), then a rental car can save you money. Plus, a rental car gives you flexibility over your itinerary and room to store and transport your belongings.
I spent five days on Oahu with a rental car and drove all over the island. But because the island is so small, I only had to fill up my tank once.
Where To Stay
Where To Eat
Plan The Rest of Your Trip