From Surf’s Up to Hula’s Up: 10 Epic Oahu Activities for a Shell of a Good Time
Oahu, one of the beautiful islands in Hawaii, is a destination filled with many activities and attractions to explore. From historical landmarks to stunning natural wonders, Oahu has something for everyone.
Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a history buff, or a beach lover, there is an activity or attraction that will cater to your interests. In this guide, we will explore ten of Oahu’s best things to do and explain why they are so much fun.
Get ready to experience the magic of Oahu and make unforgettable memories in this tropical paradise.
Here are some of the things you can do in Oahu:
- Visit Pearl Harbor: Pearl Harbor is a National Historic Landmark and a must-visit destination on the island. It’s a great way to learn about the history of World War II and pay respects to the soldiers who lost their lives.
- Hike Diamond Head: This popular hiking trail offers stunning views of the island and the Pacific Ocean. It’s a moderate hike that can be completed in a few hours, making it a perfect activity for a morning or afternoon.
- Learn to surf: Oahu is known for its great surf and many surf schools on the island offer lessons for beginners. Learning to surf can be a fun and exciting way to experience the ocean.
- Visit the North Shore: The North Shore is home to some of the best beaches in Hawaii, and it’s a great place to go snorkeling, swimming, or just relaxing on the beach. It’s also known for its big wave surfing, so if you’re a thrill-seeker, this is the place to be.
- Go on a sunset sail:- Watching the sunset over the ocean is a beautiful sight; taking a sunset sail is a great way to experience it. Many companies offer sunset sails; some even provide dinner or drinks onboard.
- Visit the Polynesian Cultural Center: The Polynesian Cultural Center is a living museum that showcases the culture and history of Polynesia. It’s a great place to learn about the different island nations and their customs.
- Explore Waikiki: Waikiki is the most popular tourist destination on the island, and for a good reason. It’s home to some of the island’s best shopping, dining, and entertainment options. It’s also a great place to surf, swim, or relax on the beach.
- Visit the Honolulu Zoo: The Honolulu Zoo is home to over 1,200 animals worldwide, including many endangered species. It’s a great place to take the family and learn about the different animals and their habitats.
- Go on a helicopter tour: Seeing the island from the air is a unique and unforgettable experience. Many helicopter tour companies on the island offer tours of Oahu, and some even offer tours of neighboring islands.
- Visit the USS Arizona Memorial: The USS Arizona Memorial is a sobering reminder of the attack on Pearl Harbor and the sacrifices made by the soldiers who fought in World War II. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history or military history.
Did you know?
Oahu is home to the largest open-air shopping mall in the world, the Ala Moana Center. This shopping center boasts over 350 stores, including luxury brands, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
Ala Moana Center also has a trolley service that provides free transportation around the mall and other nearby attractions.
A little history:
- Early Settlement: Oahu was first settled by Polynesians who arrived around 1,000 AD. They established agricultural communities and developed a complex social and religious system.
- Unification of Hawaii: In the late 18th century, King Kamehameha I unified the Hawaiian islands under his rule, ending centuries of tribal warfare.
- The arrival of Missionaries: In the early 19th century, Christian missionaries arrived in Hawaii and began converting the native population. They also introduced Western education, which led to the development of a written Hawaiian language.
- Annexation by the United States: In 1898, Hawaii was annexed by the United States following the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy. Hawaii became a U.S. territory in 1900 and a state in 1959.
- Attack on Pearl Harbor: On December 7, 1941, the Japanese attacked the U.S. naval base, causing significant damage and loss of life. This attack led to the United States’ entry into World War II.
- Statehood: On August 21, 1959, Hawaii was admitted as the 50th state of the United States. This event marked the end of Hawaii’s territorial status and the beginning of a new era in its history.
