Oahu in 7 Days: everything you need to know

Oahu is synonymous with "meeting place" and rightly so! On this island you'll find a great fusion of cultures with populated areas such as the Hawaiian capital Honolulu as well as totally remote and lost areas with breathtakingly beautiful landscapes.

You can easily find out what to see and do in Oahu by following this 7-day plan. My proposal is to spend the first few days visiting the most populated areas of the island, such as Honolulu and Waikiki Beach, and then go into the wilder and more natural areas. We'll do a mix of relaxation and adventure, but I'll make sure you'll come back with your batteries charged and a backpack full of memories.

Once you've landed (here's information on airport transfers to Honolulu if you need it) and are rested from jet lag, I recommend you spend your first day in the city and don't miss the opportunity to visit Pearl Harbor, one of the most iconic places in US history.

Delve into the history of Pearl Harbor

A must-do in Honolulu is to visit Pearl Harbor, the place that was bombed by the Japanese on 7 December 1941. It is an emblematic and very important place in the history of the United States, so much so that even Hollywood has wanted to commemorate it with a film that portrays the events.

There are different tours to visit Pearl Harbor with which you can delve into the history of the place and learn in detail everything that happened. The points that I would highlight in this visit are:

• The Visitor Centre, where you can watch a video on arrival that explains in detail what happened at Pearl Harbor, as well as different exhibitions about the historical events.
• The USS Arizona Memorial, a memorial to the victims that is built on top of the wreckage of the ship that was bombed and sunk.
• The US Bowfin, also known as "The Avenger", a US submarine that was built to avenge the attack on Pearl Harbor.

See Aloha Tower and dine nearby

Once you've visited the city centre, you can head to Honolulu Harbor where the Aloha Tower, one of the city's most recognisable icons, is located.

Built in 1926, this tower served as a lighthouse for many years to guide visitors coming into the city from the sea.

It is now part of the Aloha Tower Marketplace where you can sample the local cuisine and dine overlooking the ocean.

Visit Iolani Palace, Capitol Hill and Washington Place

Honolulu is not just about great beaches, but also offers the chance to visit some attractive places steeped in history.

Perhaps the most iconic landmark in the whole city, and one that I highly recommend you visit, is the Iolani Palace.

This unique (American Florentine) style building was inhabited by King Kalākaua and his successor Queen Liliuokalani until the monarchy was overthrown on the island.

During the tour you'll learn about the history of the Hawaiian monarchy and tour not only the exteriors, but also the interiors with royal rooms, art, jewellery and period costumes.

Afterwards, I encourage you to visit the Capitol to discover that it's nothing like what we're used to from the Americans, but rather a building with a peculiar, post-modernist architecture. And, while you're at it, take the opportunity to discover Washington Place, the current governor's residence and a former mansion that has been converted into a historic monument.

How about we try out that swimming costume we bought for the trip and we go to one of the most famous beaches in Hawaii?

On this second day I suggest you swim in the crystal clear waters of Waikiki or Kuhio Beach, stroll along the fine sand of this coast and enjoy the views of Leahi (Diamond Head), get to know the sea and its waves better and finish the day with dinner and a show that will be a feast for all your senses.

Enjoy a morning at Honolulu's best beaches

Waikiki, known in Hawaii as "the water jets", is one of the most famous beaches in the world, largely due to the famous Duke Kahanamoku, who popularised surfing and tourism in this region. In fact, when you arrive in Waikiki you'll be greeted by his statue with open arms.

Waikiki is located at the foot of one of the island's most famous craters, Leahi (also known as "Diamond Head"). It is possible to visit this monument but be aware that it is a moderately difficult hike with a fair amount of stairs. However, the panoramic views of Honolulu from the top are incredible.

If you prefer to stay at sea level, you can stroll and swim along the many kilometres of white sandy beaches and crystal clear water, although I encourage you not to stay just there and take the opportunity to learn or practice surfing, diving, book a snorkelling activity or take a guided boat tour. Waikiki's underwater depths hide some real gems!

Dare to snorkel in the waters of the Pacific Ocean

Taking advantage of the wonderful waters of the Pacific, why not get to know its marine species by snorkelling? I recommend you check out the best snorkelling tours in Oahu.

From the most basic for beginners, to those that take you on a catamaran, to those that show you the spectacular Hawaiian green turtles. Don't miss out on the trendiest sport in the most incredible place in the world.

Enjoy great food, music and dance with a Luau show

After spending the day at the beach, what better way to enjoy one of **Hawaii'**s most iconic and traditional experiences? At the Luau, the most common thing to do is to cook and taste dishes of the local cuisine such as:

• Kalua pork, cooked in an underground oven following the traditional imu ceremony.
• Poi, a cream made from the roots of a local plant called Taro
• Poke, a dish popularised in the West, consisting of a raw fish salad.

All of this is surrounded by live music, hula dancing, decorations with flower necklaces or beads (known as lei), Polynesian history shows and even fire juggling - it's sure to be a party you'll never forget!

In the Waikiki area you'll find plenty of places where you can enjoy a Luau, synonymous with "party" for the Hawaiian population.

I personally recommend you to go for Aha'aina Luau or Waikiki Starlight Luau if you want a 5 star experience or try Kuhio Beach Hula Show if you prefer something more casual and without dinner. If you prefer, you can also check out this article on the best Luau's on Oahu.

On your third day of the itinerary I suggest you get up close and personal with the volcanic lands of Oahu, discover the underwater ecosystem that its shores offer and, if you like hiking and are not afraid of climbing hills, climb up to one of the highest and most emblematic craters in the area to see the best panoramic views of the area.

To get here, I recommend renting a car, as it's the quickest way to get there, as you'll be enjoying the views of the volcano in just 20 minutes from Honolulu. Another option, less recommended, is to go by bus, which takes about an hour and twenty minutes.

Discover the submerged crater of Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve

This nature reserve has a marine education centre that simulates the original shape of the volcanic caves. In this centre you can see murals describing the marine biodiversity of the area, as well as watch a short documentary film that will tell you all about it.

You can rent snorkelling equipment there if you don't bring your own, so you can enjoy this unique area.

The natural form of Hanauma Bay consists of an eroded volcanic crater that has been covered by the sea.

Because of this, its calm waters have such unique conditions that it accumulates a rich marine life close to the shore, making it a spectacular underwater landscape.

In this bay it is possible to see, among others:

• Schools of butterfly fish
• Angel fish
• Green turtles
• Live coral
• Octopus
• Crabs

In any case, remember that you can also discover the seabed of Oahu with an underwater tour, for example, by taking a tour with the Atlantis submarine.

Put on your hiking boots and hike up to Koko Crater

This plan is only suitable for those who want to push their legs and climb a few stairs, as the Koko Crater Trail is more than just a "stroll". I recommend that you prepare your backpack well and don't forget to bring comfortable and suitable clothing and footwear, as well as some energy food to recharge your batteries during the ascent and above all plenty of water.

The climb to Koko Crater along the old Railway Trailhead usually takes about an hour and there are many stairs to climb if you want to get to the top but I assure you that the effort will be well worth the reward as the views are blissful. But, if you prefer a more leisurely pace, you can also climb the Arch Trail which is much lighter and the views don't disappoint either.

Relax at the end of the day and watch the sunset on the beach

You already know the volcanic landscapes and I'm sure that this third day has left you exhausted. But nature can surprise you even more if you go to a beach to watch the sunset.

When you get back to your hotel, drop by the nearest beach to enjoy one of the most beautiful landscapes that will stay in your memory forever. Waikiki, for example, will offer you a spectacle at the end of the day that you can't miss. Late at night, you will be able to contemplate and capture the best photos of the stars in the Hawaiian sky, something unforgettable!

How are you at surfing? If it's a sport you practise, Sandy Beach won't leave you indifferent. Another option is to sign up for a surfing lesson in the area. In any case, a stroll around the area is a perfect plan. And, since you'll be close by, I recommend you take the hiking route to the Makapu'u lighthouse.

As with the volcanic craters, there's nothing better than renting a car to get to Sandy Beach. Public transport is not advisable, as there is a significant difference in time you would lose: from 20 minutes by car to an hour and a half..... Moreover, there is no direct bus to this beach, you would have to take two lines.

Ride the waves at Sandy Beach Park

Sandy Beach Park is known throughout Hawaii for being one of the beaches where giant waves can reach six or even seven metres in height - wow!

During your visit to this area you can enjoy the views, see the impressive waves, marvel at the contrast between the volcanic rock and the sea and, why not, take to the water with a good surfboard if you dare. But always listen to the local guides to make sure it's safe.

If you're travelling with children or prefer a quieter area, then I recommend you check out Kaloko Beach, the next beach to the east.

This beach is a beautiful and charming spot. You'll be able to see tide pools and a multitude of small fish, although it's a bit more difficult to swim here as it's a rocky area.

Immerse yourself in the nature and surroundings of Oahu's most beautiful lighthouse

After spending the morning on the beaches in the southeast of the island, my recommendation is to visit one of the most beautiful lighthouses I know (and with the most spectacular views). Makapu'u Point Lighthouse is a lighthouse that was built in 1909 on the easternmost point of the island of Oahu, at a height of 183 metres above sea level.

To get to the lighthouse you'll have to walk along an accessible and comfortable 4-kilometrehiking trail where on clear days you can see as far as the islands of Manana and Molokai.

If you go between December and May, keep an eye on the sea and take a pair of binoculars with you: you might be able to spot a whale or two.

Today my suggestion is that you immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture in the charming town of Kailua by visiting its markets, tasting the local food and enjoying the natural environment.

To get to Kailua by car only takes 19 minutes, depending on traffic, and from there you can drive to nearby beaches such as Lanikai, which takes about 7-8 minutes. This is the most convenient way to get around the area.

Take a stroll and a dip at Lanikai Beach

I suggest that, as soon as you get out of bed, you go to the wonderful Lanikai Beach. This beach is one of the most beautiful and calmest on the island, where you won't be able to see much underwater life, but its waters are calm and allow you to swim without any risk of big waves.

This beach is ideal if you're visiting Oahu with your family (you can even bring your pets) and, in addition to strolling along fine sand and bathing in crystal-clear waters, you can enjoy the views and the tranquillity of the surrounding nature.

Traveller Tip

Because there aren't many services available at this beach, I recommend you bring water and food and, if you need services, head to Kailua Beach Park (1.5km away).

Get to know Kailua's charming downtown and sample the local cuisine

In addition to the incredible beaches and views, if there's one thing you're going to enjoy a lot on Oahu, it's the food.

You'll be surprised, for example, to find the Kailua Farmers Market where you can buy all kinds of local produce and food from local businesses and enjoy the warmth of the local people.

In addition, in the centre of Kailua you will find a wide range of restaurants and cafes where you can relax and enjoy good food.

If you are a real foodie, I encourage you to dedicate today to a gastronomic tour. In this article you can check out the best gastronomic routes in Oahu, let your sense of taste also enjoy the trip and take some good memories with you!

Finish off the day with a sunset cruise

As a suggestion to end the day, I recommend that you take a cruise along the coast of Waikiki. Some of them will allow you to watch the Hawaiian sunset while sipping cocktails and typical snacks.

If dinner time is too late for you, there are also cruises where you can enjoy a three-star dinner with a show included. A fantastic experience to end the day.

Considering the hours, you may want to spend the night in Kailua on this day, from where you can start the penultimate day of your trip. Just a 10-minute drive away, your next stop is...

Continuing north from Kailua, we arrive at Kaneohe where I suggest spending a day of tranquillity and picnic at the Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden, and then finish the day by visiting the Valley of the Temples, a unique place where peace reigns in every corner.

Lose yourself in the Ho'omaluhia Botanical Gardens

This garden is a 160-hectare Protected Nature Reserve where you can lose yourself and enjoy the peace and quiet of nature at its best. You can travel parts of the route by car and others on foot, whichever way you prefer. It is also possible to camp inside the reserve itself, in case you feel like experiencing a different kind of night.

My suggestion is to bring a picnic and spend the morning and midday in this beautiful spot where you'll find a variety of tropical plants, a lagoon with fish that will come to you if you throw them some food and spectacular views of the entire bay. This is the ideal place to spend a peaceful day immersed in nature, perfect for both adults and children.

Awaken your zen side at Valley Of The Temples

If you are familiar with the series Lost or Hawaii Five-O, the itinerary I suggest below will be familiar to you as it was used in several of its episodes.

Valley Of The Temples Memorial Park, at the foot of the Ko'olau Mountains (near Kaneohe), features a replica of Buddhist temples from Japan (11th century Byodo-In).

A visit here will bring you peace, amazing photographs of the views and discover the unique monuments found here. In addition, if you are a spiritual and sensitive person, you will surely feel the immense energy that is concentrated in this place.

At this point, I advise you to return to Honolulu for a good night's rest. The next day, and to finish your trip in Oahu, I am going to propose an essential plan for which you will have to prepare a somewhat longer journey.

We have reached the last day of the itinerary but you know what they say: the best always comes last. Today I propose a simple hiking route with an amazing final reward and that you finish the day watching one last sunset on the island with some of the most unique company.

If you continue with your rented car, which is highly recommended, to reach this other wonder of nature you will need about 50 minutes driving to the north of the island. Again, I do not recommend public transport, as you will then need more than two hours.

Meet the local wildlife and enjoy Waimea Falls

As I said, on the north shore of Oahu is Waimea Falls, also known as Waihi Falls, one of the most beautiful and easily accessible waterfalls on the island of Oahu.

To get there you'll need to go to Waimea Valley, where you'll find a botanical garden, tourist information centre, parking and even shuttle transportation to the falls. If you arrive early, I encourage you to take the easy hiking trail and enjoy the surroundings.

Bid farewell to Oahu with a sunset and the famous turtles of Laniakea Beach

After visiting the waterfalls and to end your trip on a high note, I recommend you head to Laniakea Beach. This time I won't tell you to take a towel or go for a swim, but simply sit on the shore to enjoy the views and wait patiently for the friendliest inhabitants of this beach to come out and say hello.

Laniakea Beach is also known as Turtle Beach, as for decades Hawaiian green sea turtles have frequented this beach more than any other on the island because of the feeding conditions.

So take a towel and a picnic if you want to sit on this beautiful beach and enjoy the view and observe the majesty of the sea turtles. Seeing how they cope in their environment will be a great way to say goodbye to this incredible island.

If you follow this itinerary, you'll be able to travel from north to south through Oahu's most spectacular spots. You won't miss out on discovering its history, getting to know its people and culture, tasting its gastronomy and discovering the magic of its nature and coasts. Now you just have to take this adventure and make it yours, Oahu is waiting for you!