Things to do in O‘ahu

Enjoy the beer (and wine) scene

Yes, for those on a beach vacation in Hawaii, the ubiquitous Mai-Tai is tempting, but real locals hit breweries in Kailua, Waikiki, and Waipio (O‘ahu’s West side) for frothy pale ales, IPAs, and sours. Wine lovers rejoiced when the island’s only winery opened back in 2012, and today you can enjoy a selection of natural wines on tours and tastings.

Surf at sunset

O‘ahu is one of the best places to learn how to surf, with Waikiki being a perfect spot to take a beginner’s lesson. For the lifelong surfers, though, you won’t find many out catching waves alongside the students, unless they are actually teaching them. A better time of day? As the sun begins to go down, the experienced ones grab their boards and head to the aptly named Sunset Beach on the North Shore. Luckily for the non-surfers, it’s also a great beach for snorkeling and yoga.

Kayak and snorkel the Mokulua Islands

These picture-perfect islands sit right off the shore in Kailua (less than a mile), but this is definitely an area meant to be enjoyed by the more experienced swimmers and outdoor enthusiasts with stronger currents, which can help keep the crowds at bay. Kayak around the islands, or swim out to see the seabird and turtle sanctuaries. For something different: Go out on a Wa'a Pe'a (Hawaiian sailing canoe) to experience a traditional mode of transportation used by the Hawaiians.

The food is as diverse as the people of O‘ahu, and each part of the island gives you a taste of cultures and traditions, past and present. No matter where you are on the island, you can’t go wrong with fresh poke, shave ice, and acai bowls. In Honolulu, neighborhoods outside of Waikiki such as Kaka’ako and Kaimuki are emerging as foodie destinations with bakeries, cafes, and vegan spots popping up. On the North Shore, alongside Kamehameha Highway, don’t miss a chance to order from a shrimp truck. Many are one-stop shops for the perfect roadside picnic. Find them parked next to convenience markets where you can grab additional lunch-worthy items and sit down at a nearby picnic table. Just watch out for curious and hungry passer-bys — wild chickens roam freely on the island.

Shark’s Cove

This part of Pupukea Beach Park is a scuba diver’s paradise, especially for reef dives at night (which can even be experienced with a local marine biologist as your guide). It’s also a good place to bring the kids for tide pools and to splash around in the calm waters. Just don’t let the name of this North Shore favorite scare you off — it comes from the rocky bay’s fin-shaped curve.

Bellows Field Beach Park

Whether it’s your first time or you’ve lived on the island your entire life, Bellows just makes you feel like you're on vacation. White sands and crystal clear water invite a fun place to boogie board or take a light swim. It is part of an active US Air Force Station, and only open on weekends.

Makapuu Beach Park

For those looking for a quieter alternative to Hanauma Bay, this state park is a great place to go for whale watching and a hike up to the Makapu'u Lighthouse Trail for amazing views.