ATTRACTION BLOGS

Local Lens on Oahu

Oahu’s Timeless Treasures Beyond the Tourist Trail

In our ‘Attractions’ segment, we don’t just show you the postcard-perfect spots; we dive deep into Oahu’s rich tapestry of locales that have enchanted kama’aina for generations. Ever wondered where locals love to unwind or which historical spot tells an untold story? From serene lo’i kalo (taro fields) to vibrant town festivals, our narratives aim to capture the authentic spirit of Oahu. Join us in unveiling the island’s diverse attractions, where tradition marries the tropics in the most captivating ways.

Oahu Luaus

For those seeking a fun, interactive evening activity while traveling in this Hawaiian hot spot, a luau offers the perfect blend of cultural education and cuisine, live entertainment and intrigue for all... More

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Pearl Harbor Tours

While Pearl Harbor’s crown jewel, the USS Arizona Memorial, has closed indefinitely due to structural problems, its visitor center remains open to the public. As the #1 attraction in the state, it... More

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The Mokes

There’s something so splendid about the glittering Pacific that most visitors to Hawaii are keen on experiencing it in every manner they can. Enter the appeal of kayaking, an accessible sport, aboard... More

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Diamond Head Summit Trail

Traditionally called Leahi due to its resemblance to a tuna’s brow, the image of Diamond Head has been seared into the memories of kama’aina, visitors—and people from afar—for centuries. Formed over 300,000... More

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Makapu‘u Lighthouse Trail

Breathtaking views may be seen around every corner of Oahu but they’re taken to new heights—literally—on the trail to Makapuu Lighthouse. Located roughly a mile past Hawaii Kai golf course, the relatively... More

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Iolani Palace

Hawaii may be the most isolated populous archipelago in the world but in the early 19th century it was considered to possess the grandest palace on the globe. Now, visitors can get... More

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Jurassic Park Movie Tour

Chances are if a movie or show was filmed in Hawaii, Kualoa Ranch was used as the set. Its iconic beauty has served as the backdrop to many of your favorite... More

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Waikiki Activities

Luminous weather, warm water, gentle waves, lofty palms—it’s no wonder Waikiki Beach is one of the most recognizable shorelines on the planet. With Diamond Head glittering in the distance, surfers, stand-up paddlers,... More

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Honolulu Zoo

Established in 1947, this 42-acre exhibit has gone through several iterations since its first Park Director, Ben Hollinger, brought a monkey, bear, and African elephant to Oahu for the “children of Hawaii.”... More

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Kualoa Ranch

Spend all of your time in Waikiki—as tempting as it may be—and you’ll miss out on the fact that part of Oahu’s allure rests in its mix of metropolitan and country. Kualoa... More

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Hanauma Bay

Deemed the third most popular destination on the island of Oahu—and prized by kama’aina and visitors alike—Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is an ocean enthusiast’s haven. Boasting some of the best snorkeling opps... More

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Downtown Honolulu

Waikiki may receive the lion’s share of visitors’ love, but Downtown Honolulu underscores why it’s often considered one of the most exciting cities in the world. Steeped in history, abuzz with budding... More

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Ala Moana Center

Shopping in Hawaii isn’t exclusively reserved for buying shell necklace souvenirs for your pals back home. Ala Moana is a testament this fact, presenting an array of stores that stretches from the... More

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Kaʻena Point State Park

Layson Albatrosses, wedge-tailed shearwaters, and Hawaiian Monk Seals are just a few of the rare species that can be found at this Natural Reserve on Oahu’s westernmost point. Reaching this jewel requires... More

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North Shore

No trip to Oahu would be complete without a journey to its gorgeous North Shore. Frequently dubbed the epicenter of surfing, the towns that line its legendary beaches straddle the mark between... More

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Lyon Arboretum

The nearby Manoa Falls may capture the interest of most, but this botanical garden—and part of the University of Hawai‘i—is equally deserving of your time and energy. Established in 1918 as a... More

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Honolulu Museum of Art

Founded in 1927 and presenting more than 50,000 works spanning 5,000 years, the Honolulu Museum of Art earns every bit of its acclaim as one of the most imposing exhibition halls in... More

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Have An Oahu Beach Wedding

We have some of the most remarkable beaches on Earth. Why not get married on one? We’ve put together 8 of our favorite Oahu beach wedding locations with photos and descriptions.... More

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Polynesian Cultural Center

Polynesia’s breadth stretches far and wide, from New Zealand in the southwestern-most part of the South Pacific to Tahiti in French Polynesia. Oahu’s Polynesian Cultural Center—a theme park and “living museum” that’s... More

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Shangri La

American icon, competitive surfer, and tobacco heiress Doris Duke fell in love with Hawaii in the mid-1930s, ultimately building from the ground-up a seaside mansion minutes away from Diamond Head. She spent... More

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Maunawili Falls

It’s impossible to visit Oahu without being stunned by the radical Pali Cliffs—green, dizzying beauties that scissor across the skies of the island. One of the sagest ways to experience their splendor... More

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READY TO EMBARK ON OAHU ADVENTURES OF A LIFETIME?

The sheer number of things to do on Oahu is enough to make even the most organized traveler’s head spin. With that in mind, we’ve narrowed down Oahu’s musts so that you can experience the extent of “The Gathering Place’s” wonder:

OAHU ACTIVITIES