Oahu Tourism: The Gathering Place

Oahu is the most densely populated of the Hawaiian Islands, although that doesn't mean that the Oahu map is lacking in locations of natural beauty. Far from it: Oahu has some of the most spectacular scenery in Hawaii. The nightlife and excitement of Honolulu and Waikiki also make Oahu a popular tourist spot.

Given the popularity of the island, luxury Oahu hotels are in abundance. Honolulu hotels offer much for the traveler in need of pampering. Indeed, to get to the beach from many Oahu hotels, all you have to do is follow a path or cross the street.

With luxury hotels, vibrant nightlife, and beautiful countryside, it's no wonder that Oahu is what many people think of when they think of Hawaii.

Honolulu

Honolulu is the center of tourism on the Oahu map. Oahu hotels abound, with a variety of accommodations to suit a range of tastes and pocketbooks.

There's much to do in Honolulu and the surrounding area. Here are just a few examples:
  • Visit the Iolani Palace, home to the last Hawaiian monarchs.
  • Spend the day at Waikiki Beach.
  • Explore the Waikiki Aquarium.
  • Take a full moon stroll through the Honolulu Zoo.
  • Check out the Hawaiian artifacts at the Bishop Museum in Honolulu.
  • Spend an afternoon at the 42-acre Polynesian Cultural Center on the north shore.
  • Pay your respects at the USS Arizona Memorial in Pearl Harbor.

Oahu Destinations

Oahu abounds with natural beauty in its hidden valleys, remote waterfalls and isolated beaches. Helicopter tours allow you to see Pearl Harbor and other sights from the air.

If you favor snorkeling, the place to visit on Oahu is Hanauma Bay, officially designated by the State of Hawaii as a fish sanctuary. Or you can hike Diamond Head Crater, the extinct volcano that is one of the most famous landmarks of the Islands. Even on bustling Oahu, untouched natural beauty is only a stone's throw away.

The windy Nuuanu Pali Lookout provides one of the best views on the island and the best view of windward Oahu. In 1795 King Kamahameha and his warriors forced the enemy over the cliffs to their death thereby uniting all the Hawaiian Islands. If you take small children to the Pali, hold their hands—the periodic gusts of wind are enough to knock them off their feet...and hold onto your hat!

From the fun-filled nightlife of Waikiki to the big waves of the North Shore, the island of Oahu calls to vacationers from all over the world. From the gentle rolling waves of Waikiki to the windswept heights of the Pali Lookout, there are many exciting things to do on Oahu, wherever you are.