If you’re looking for things to do in Oahu, Hawaii, beyond the typical beach day, this island has no shortage of unique adventures. From shark diving to serene temple visits, Oahu offers experiences you won’t find anywhere else. Here’s your guide to exploring Oahu like a local.
1. Take a Helicopter Ride Over Oahu’s Stunning Landscapes
There’s no better way to see Oahu than from the sky. A helicopter tour lets you experience the island’s breathtaking cliffs, lush jungles, and turquoise coastlines.
Companies like Blue Hawaiian Helicopters and Rainbow Helicopters offer different flight options, including doors-off tours for unobstructed views. Popular routes fly over Diamond Head, Waikiki Beach, the Koʻolau Mountains, and the famous waterfall from Jurassic Park.
Insider Tip: Book a sunset tour if you can. The warm glow on the cliffs and ocean is nothing short of magical.
2. Swim with Sharks on Oahu’s North Shore
For a heart-pounding experience, try swimming with sharks. On Oahu’s North Shore, you can join a guided shark swim either inside a cage or, for the brave, cage-free with experts by your side.
One Ocean Diving and Haleiwa Shark Tours offer shark swim experiences led by marine conservationists. You’ll see sharks like Galapagos and sandbar sharks up close and gain a new appreciation for these incredible creatures.
Quick Note: No scuba experience needed! This adventure is suitable for all skill levels and emphasizes safety.
Unique Adventures Await: Discover the Best Things to Do in Oahu, Hawaii
3. Whale Watching in Oahu During Winter
If you’re visiting Oahu between December and April, you’re in luck. Winter is whale-watching season, when humpback whales migrate from Alaska to Hawaii.
Book a tour with Hawaii Nautical or Makani Catamaran for an up-close look at these majestic giants. You might even hear their haunting songs through an underwater hydrophone, adding a magical touch to the experience.
Fun Fact: Humpback whales communicate through songs that travel across vast distances, making this an unforgettable encounter.
4. Explore the Historic Pearl Harbor
Pearl Harbor is an essential part of Hawaiian and American history. Visiting this historic site gives you a deeper understanding of WWII and the events that changed Hawaii.
The Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum and the Battleship Missouri Memorial are must-see stops. Walking the deck of the USS Missouri, where WWII officially ended, is a moving experience, while the Aviation Museum offers warplane exhibits and history displays.
Pro Tip: Arrive early to beat the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
5. Visit the Byodo-In Temple in the Valley of the Temples
Nestled on Oahu’s east side, the Byodo-In Temple is a hidden gem. This replica of a 950-year-old Japanese temple sits in a lush garden surrounded by koi ponds, creating a serene, almost otherworldly atmosphere.
The temple is located in the Valley of the Temples and is an active Buddhist site. Visitors can ring the giant “bon-sho” sacred bell for luck or feed the koi fish while soaking up the peaceful surroundings.
Learn more about visiting the Byodo-In Temple for details and ticket information. It’s a side of Oahu that most tourists miss but shouldn’t.
Travel Tip: This makes a perfect stop on a road trip around Oahu’s scenic east side.
Why Oahu?
Oahu has it all—adventure, history, culture, and natural beauty. With a mix of city life in Honolulu and laid-back vibes on the North Shore, Oahu offers the best of Hawaii, with experiences you’ll find nowhere else.
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