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View Of Buildings And Beach In Honolulu

Oahu Itinerary: How To Spend 5 Days In Oahu, Hawaii

This Oahu itinerary is to prove this incredible little island is SO much more than some surfers and sandy beaches. Although famous for a reason, there is so much more to see than world-famous Waikiki and this Oahu itinerary shares the perfect mix of relaxing and exploring to ensure you do just that. Not only will we share the most unique things to do on Oahu, but also the bucket list gems and local tips to ensure your itinerary for Oahu is one to remember!

We were so fortunate to explore off the usual tourist track thanks to staying with a local family on Oahu. In total, we spent 4 weeks on the island thanks to Workaway – an online cultural exchange platform. While we’ve condensed our highlights into a 5 day Oahu itinerary, we cannot recommend a Workaway experience enough if you want to spend more time on the island – FOR FREE!

BEST TIME TO VISIT OAHU

November to April

Although considered the Winter months, to us this is the best time to visit Oahu for a few reasons. Firstly, it is considrerd the rainy season, but the average temperature is still pretty high at 26°C. The rainy season puts other visitors off so the accommodation & flight prices are a little lower than Summer months and we only experienced heavy rain twice during our trip (we visited in January.)

Secondly, if you plan on surfing during your Oahu 5 day itinerary, you will want to visit in the Winter months from late December to early April to catch the best waves. If you’d rather watch than get wet, head to the North Shore during these months to watch the pro’s as well as admire the island’s world famous surfing competitions such as the Volcom Pipe Pro and Da Hui Pipeline Warriors.

Finally, in the Winter months are when you can witness the humpack whale migration. We were backpacking Hawaii for around 4 weeks between January & February so we were fortunate during our Oahu itinerary so spot the whales on 3 occasions!

April to June

This is considered a shoulder season, so you will find the Oahu attractions and beaches slightly less crowded than Summer months and flights a little cheaper. If you’re searching for accommodation in Hawaii on a budget, this is also an ideal time to visit, before demand (and prices) increase. 

June to August

Oahu is known as the rainbow island for a reason – rain! Being Scottish, a little rain didn’t bother us, however if you want a rain-free Oahu itinerary visit between June and August as this is considered Oahu’s Summer season where temperatures are on average 30-32°C. This does mean crowded beaches and higher room rates however. 

September to October

This is also considered a shoulder season as the temperatures begin to drop. However, this means room prices do also. 

HOW TO GET FROM HONOLULU AIRPORT TO WAIKIKI

So you’ve touched down at the airport, within minutes you have a lei around your neck and the twinkle of ukulele in the air but jet-lagged and possibly a few airport Pinots later, you may be wondering how to get from Honolulu Airport to Waikiki. The good news is, you can get from Honolulu Airport to Waikiki in under 20 minutes and there is a transport option to suit all budgets.

In order to get your Oahu itinerary started pronto, here are your options:

  • Rideshares: Rideshare schemes such as Lyft and Uber are available at designated pick up points at the airport. Terminal 1 pick up point is between Lobbies 2 and 3 (departures level), and the other is at Terminal 2 across from Lobby 8. Prices will surge during peak times but from Honolulu Airport to Waikiki is around $25-$50 per vehicle (depending on party/vehicle size.)
  • Taxi: You can also hop into a regular taxi from the airport, just look for the taxi dispatchers in yellow T-shirts who will direct you. The average taxi fare from Honolulu Airport to Waikiki is around $50 depending on where your destination is.
  • Shuttles to Waikiki: If you don’t fancy waiting for a Rideshare/taxi then you can pre-book a shuttle to Waikiki. Your best bet is Go Waikiki Shuttle who offer a round trip for only $20 per person.
  • Public Transportation: If you are backpacking Hawaii the bus is the cheapest way to get from Honolulu Airport to Waikiki. It costs just $2.75 per person to take TheBus although note there are strict rules regarding luggage. Only baggage that can be stored under your seat or carried on your lap is permitted. For timetables & ticket info, click here.
  • Car Rental: We would recommend renting a car for your 5 days in Oahu as it will allow complete freedom to explore the island without relying on public transport or the expense of Uber surcharges. It is also surprisingly cheap – car rental starts from as little as $10 per day! Although you can organise a rental when you arrive, (you’ll spot the usual names such as Avis, Budget, Enterprise and Hertz at the baggage claim area) we recommend comparing beforehand using Skyscanner to get the best deal.
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WHERE TO STAY IN OAHU

Where to stay in Oahu depends entirely on your travel style and budget. There is resorts dotted all over the island as well as hostels, house stays and Airbnbs. If you are backpacking Hawaii or the usual hotel chains are not your cup of tea, you may enjoy our guide to Hawaii accommodation on a budget.

We quizzed travel bloggers from all over the globe to share their favourite stays across Hawaii and rounded them up into one insightful post so you have ideas for not only where to stay in Oahu, but the other islands too.

We also had the unique experience of camping during our time on Oahu and if you can, we highly recommend it – it’s the perfect way to experience those postcard worthy views without the beachside resort price tags!

family camping on beach in Hawaii with fire

OAHU ITINERARY DAY 1: WAIKIKI

Morning

We’re gonna kick off your Oahu itinerary by ticking off number one on many people’s Hawaii bucketlists – Waikiki! A leisurely stroll and sunbathe will not only get jet lag out your system, but by ticking off the world famous beach first, you have the rest of your 5 days in Oahu to learn what this epic island really has to offer.

Eggs n’things | 2464 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu

Before your walk begins, you need some fuel to start your day. No Oahu itinerary would be complete without atleast 1 visit to Eggs n’things for their famous breakfast. Their pancakes are legendary and hands down the reason they are one of the best places to eat on Oahu.

Thankfully there is more than 1 – so regardless of where you start your Waikiki walk there is an Eggs n’things at either end. Alternatively, if you have breakfast at your hotel, you could visit Eggs n’things at the end of your walk for a tasty brunch.

Duke Paoa Kahanamoku Statue (2 minutes walk from Eggs n’things)

Just two minutes from the Kalakua Avenue branch of Eggs n’Things is the epic statue of surf legend Duke Kahanamoku. The statue stands proudly on Kuhio Beach which a part of Waikiki Beach and the perfect place to start your stroll.

The statue is not just a popular photo opportunity with tourists, but as a sneaky tip it is also the location for a traditional torch lighting ceremony 4 nights a week. The ceremonies are usually followed by a FREE one hour hula show, so save a night free in your Oahu itinerary for this beautiful experience.

Waikiki Beach – 2 mile Stretch

From the statue, it is around a 30 minute walk along Waikiki beach to Kahanamoku Beach which neighbours Duke’s Lagoon. It’s not golden sand the entire route, you will need to use the Sheraton Boardwalk at times, but the views are breathtaking early in the day before the crowds of tourists arrive.

Soon you will arrive at Duke’s lagoon, which is a man made lagoon that is maintained by the Hilton and is free to use – there is often yoga paddle boarding held there in the early morning or enjoy a tranquil swim. The lagoon gets super crowded later in the day which is why we suggest visiting early on day one of your Oahu itinerary.

Afternoon: Kaka’ako Street Art

Next it’s time for one of the highlights from our Oahu itinerary and one of the most unique things to do on Oahu – Kaka’ako Street Art. After a swim and a sunbathe at Duke’s lagoon, enjoy a 35 minute walk along the picturesque Ala Moana Boulevard to Kaka’ako, a North-West district of Waikiki. When walking, feel free to stop by the beautiful Ala Moana beach and don’t forget to look back for epic views of Waikiki and the towering Diamond Head backdrop.

Thanks to the graffiti gurus at Pow! Wow! Hawaii (an organisation that promotes street art all over the globe) this otherwise dull industrial area full of warehouses and garages has been transformed into an outdoor gallery with murals around every corner. We spent all afternoon snapping away and best of all – didn’t spend a penny!

TIP: There are lots of beautiful, hipster cafes, coffee shops and hole in the walls for lunch in this area – we recommend Arvo which is like a real life Pinterest board and one of the prettiest places to eat in Oahu.

painted building covered in flower mural

Evening: Tantalus Look Out

One of the best things to do in Oahu at night is head to Tantalus Lookout to admire the sunset.  From the street art it is around a 1.5 hour walk through the beautiful suburb of Manoa however, if you don’t fancy the trek you can also grab an Uber (for around $15 from Waikiki) or TheBus.

Tantulus look out is on top of a 1048 ft hill and offers epic views of Diamond Head Crater (one of the best hikes on Oahu) alongside the entirety of Waikiki as well as ocean views for as far as you can imagine. It is the best way to end day 1 of your Oahu itinerary as you can admire the Oahu landmarks you have yet to explore.

TIP: Although the sunset views are breathtaking, the weather can be too – it can get SUPER windy up at Tantulus Lookout so swap the sandals for sneakers and don’t forget a jacket and picnic blanket.

view of palm trees, sky and waikiki from tantulas look out

OAHU ITINERARY DAY 2:
NORTH SHORE

Morning

For day two of your Oahu itinerary, we recommend heading to North Shore. There are so many things to do on North Shore that to us, it was our favourite part of the island. It felt worlds away from the crowded tourist centre of Waikiki. Instead chain stores are replaced with art galleries and artisan crafts and the sunbathers of Waikiki are replaced with surfers and snorkelers. To us, it felt like “real Hawaii” and perfect for those looking for unique things to do on Oahu to escape Waikiki.

The Town of Haleiwa

Haleiwa is a vibrant beach town approximately one hours drive from Waikiki. It is essentially the capital of North Shore Oahu and there are 2 main reasons people visit – surfing and shave ice. Shave Ice is one of the most famous Hawaiian foods and there are two “go to” places in Haleiwa for shave ice – Matsumoto’s or Aoki’s across the road. They are not difficult to find as the queue down the street is a definite give away!

There are also numerous art galleries and artisan gift shops compared to the manufactured tat of Waikiki. Finally, don’t forget to post at the North Shore angel wings – an insta fan favourite!

Watch the Turtles at Laniakea Beach

For our 5 days in Oahu, spotting a turtle in the wild was top of the bucket list and Laniakea Beach is the place to do just that. It is known as Turtle Beach and if you visit around lunch time (between 11am-1pm) you are almost guaranteed to spot these majestic creatures chilling on the shore.

Although the beach is only a 5 minute drive from Haleiwa, they have banned parking at the beach as it was becoming so dangerous with crowds crossing the busy road. Instead, you must park further up the road and walk to the beach. Please also listen to the Hona guardians and be a responsible traveller, do not use flash photography or get within 10 metres of a turtle as it is illegal.

Lunch at North Shore Food Trucks

A further 5 minute drive will take you to one of the BEST places to eat on Oahu – AJI Limo food truck. The island is famous for its food trucks and AJI limo is not only one of the most beautiful with its rainbow exterior and relaxing seating area, but the food is INSANELY good, it’s hard to believe it’s from a truck.

Best of all it’s literally across the road from Shark’s cove where you can spend the afternoon of day 2 of your Oahu itinerary.

Snorkel at Shark’s Cove

As mentioned, it takes just minutes to walk across the road from the food truck to Shark’s Cove, but we’d recommend a little rest on the shore after your lunch before you chuck on the snorkel. Forget the name – there are no sharks in this snorkel spot but you can expect to see butterfly fish, parrot fish, trigger fish and even turtles.

This spot was rated by Scuba Diving Magazine as one of the “Top 12 Shore Dives in the World” and a swim here is guaranteed to be a highlight of your Oahu itinerary.

As a tip, Shark’s Cove is located between the popular surf spot of Waimea Bay and the Banzai Pipeline, so it is common to have large swells which make it unsafe for snorkelling – especially between December to February which is peak surf season.

During the Summer months however, it is super popular so as a tip, swap the order of day 2 of your Oahu itinerary and go snorkelling at Shark’s Cove in the morning (before 11am is most quiet) then visit Haleiwa in the afternoon.

man standing in sea with snorkel

Go For a Swim at Waimea Falls Park

If you don’t fancy swimming with the fish, how does swimming in a waterfall sound? One of the easiest hikes on Oahu is the Waimea Falls hike, which is just an 8 minute drive from Shark’s Cove (or 45 minute walk.)

After the pleasant 1 mile walk through a tropical garden of over 300 species of plants, you are rewarded with a refreshing swim in a 50ft waterfall. There is an entrance fee to the Waimea Falls hike, but this includes life jacket hire and there are toilets and changing rooms on site. Demonstrations, cultural performances and art displays also regularly take place within the Waimea Falls Park.

TIP: If you’re looking for things to do on Oahu at night, on Mondays, Tuesdays & Wednesdays Waimea Falls park hosts a traditional luau – a dinner ceremony which includes traditional dance and food. You can learn more about it here.

Polynesian Cultural Centre Luau Show

One of the most popular things to do on North Shore (and infact the #1 attraction on Oahu) is visit the Polynesian Cultural Centre, which is located around 20 minute drive from Shark’s Cove. This place will hands down be a highlight of your 5 days in Oahu and if you can, spend an entire day here as there is SO much to see and do.

It is essentially a theme park and museum which shares the Polynesian history and culture through dance, demonstrations, art and most popular of all…their epic Luau show. Following the Luau you can then also watch the mesmerising Ha: Breath of Life” evening show – one of the most memorable things to do in Oahu at night.

family with hawaii lei at table

OAHU ITINERARY DAY 3: Hawaii Highlights

Morning: Visit Pearl Harbor 

No Oahu itinerary would be complete without a visit to Pearl Harbor, which is only a 20 minute drive from Waikiki. Not only does it provide a history lesson like no other but we were surprised to learn it is completely free to visit!

Each morning 1,300 free tickets are released and entry is via first come, first served. We recommend arriving for doors opening (around 7.00am) to ensure your Pearl Harbor visit. It also means you are up and organised ready for one of the most memorable days in your Oahu itinerary!

Not only does Pearl Harbor allow you to learn about the devastating events of December 7th 1941 but an insight into the day that changed history and forced America into World War II. Your visit will begin at the visitor centre where you watch a film on the historic events of Pearl Harbor before hopping on a short boat ride to the floating memorial shrine, which has been built on top of the sunken Arizona.

Although you may want to spend your 5 days in Oahu relaxing and exploring, for us, Pearl Harbor was a once in a lifetime opportunity that allowed us to understand these historical events better. All in all, the visit only lasts around an hour and a half so it was also a great way to get us up and organised for the day.

american flag with ship in background at pearl harbor oahu

Lunch: Helena’s Hawaiian Food

Location: 1240 N School St, Honolulu, HI 96817, USA

As you head back to the city, around a 15 minute drive from Pearl Harbour you will come across one of the best places to eat on Oahu – Helena’s Hawaiian Food. To be honest, we would have drove past this as it is very unassuming from the outside, thankfully our Workaway family who were local recommended it and we are SO glad they did.

If you want to try traditional, delicious, no frills food then this is the place as Helena’s is a family owned restaurant which has been serving locals (and tourists!) since 1946!  The food is served as several small dishes (we recommend around 3 per person) then put them all in the middle and share. We loved this way of dining as it allows you to try a little of everything, including our first taste of Poi and Haupia which are both traditional Hawaiian foods.

TIP: they only accept cash and aren’t open weekends, so if you’re visiting during your 5 days in Oahu make sure you time it between 10am to 7:30pm, Tuesday to Friday.

table with small bowls of food in hawaii

Afternoon: Hike Diamond Head

Now well fuelled from your lunch at Helena’s we recommend one of the best hikes on Oahu – Diamond Head. It is only a 15 minute drive to Diamond Head State Monument from Helena’s and note make sure to take cash as there is a small entry fee of $1 per person for pedestrians or you pay $5 for a car and they do not accept card.

It’s likely you have admired Diamond Head from Waikiki beach on day one of your Oahu itinerary, and now is your time to admire Waikiki beach from above as you hike to the summit of this world famous crater.

Although the hike is only 0.8 miles, it is steep in parts and there are a few narrow bunkers and stair cases near the summit which made me feel a little claustrophobic. It was one of our favourite Oahu hikes however, as it offers an incredible insight into both the geological and military history of the island.

The trail is open 6am until 6pm although last entry is 4.30pm and the hike takes around 45 minutes from car park to summit.

Pit Stop at Diamond Head Market & Grill

Location: 3158 Monsarrat Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815

After hiking Diamond Head, you deserve a sweet treat and no Oahu itinerary would be complete without sampling the devine scones from Diamond Head Market & Grill – one of the best bakeries on the island.

It is just a 5 minute drive from Diamond Head car park or around a 20 minute walk, but it is so worth the little detour to sample these crumbly, crafted little treats!

Evening: Enjoy Oahu’s Nightlife

Following such a busy day, you will ready for a chilled evening to end day three of your Oahu itinerary. It’s time to hit one of the island’s many beach bars and enjoy an ice cold Kona beer or Mai Tai. The most popular bars include The Edge at the Sheraton which as an infinity pool with spectacular views. For a less formal affair, head to Duke’s Barefoot bar which will likely have live music.

Another favourite memory from our Oahu itinerary was admiring the Hilton Fireworks which take place every Friday. We brought along a BBQ and dined under the stars as the epic fireworks lit up Waikiki.  Best of all, it’s completely free so it’s perfect for those backpacking Hawaii on a budget. The show usually begins around 7:45 and lasts around 15 minutes, just make sure to head down early as the crowds gather fast.

OAHU ITINERARY DAY 4: THE WINDWARD COAST

Morning: Visit Byodo – In Temple

Location: 47-200 Kahekili Hwy

Depending how wild your night got at Duke’s bar, you’ll be relieved to hear day four of your Oahu itinerary is a very chilled one. Starting your day at the stunning Byodo-In Temple will not only be incredibly peaceful, it will offer some of the best photo opportunities on the island.

It is a non-practising Buddhist temple located at the foot of the Ko-olau Mountains in the Valley of the Temples Memorial Park. The temple welcomes all faiths and is infact a small-scale replica of the Byodo-In temple in Japan which is over 500 years old.

We found it a very tranquil place, perfect for escaping the bustle of Waikiki, reflecting on your epic Oahu trip so far or indeed, to help cure the beer fear from last night. The temple has even been used in recent years as a film set with episodes of Hawaii Five-O and Lost being filmed within its grounds.

Byodo-In Temple costs $5 per adult to enter and is open daily from 08:3am to 4:00pm with last admission at 4:45pm.

red byodo-in temple with mountain and grey clouds

Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden

Location: 45–680 Luluku Road, Kāne’ohe, Oahu, Hawaii.

If you’re an Instagram fan, chances are you’ve definitely seen the next stop in your Oahu itinerary before. The Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden is located just 12 minute drive from Byodo-In temple and is a scene straight outta Jurassic Park.

The wide road leading to the Gardens are popular with influencers and tourists but don’t just take a photo and move on, there is so much to see within the 400 acre grounds including hiking trails, lake and endless species of plants and trees. Not to mention the striking backdrop of the Koolau Mountain Range  home to the most  infamous oahu hikes – Stairway to Heaven.

Admire The Views at Nu‘uanu Pali Lookout

Location: Nuuanu Pali Dr, Kaneohe, HI 96744, United States

Following a pose or two at Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden we recommend a quick stop just 13 minutes down the road at Nu’uanu Pali Lookout. Although we’ve mentioned many look outs and hikes on this itinerary for Oahu, this is often considered one of the best on the island as the views are breath taking.

The Pali lookout is a stone terrace that is perched 1000 feet above the coast providing views of landmarks such as The  Chinaman’s Hat, Coconut Island, Kaneohe Marine Corps base and Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden mentioned earlier. During our visit we actually saw whales from here too.

The Pali Lookout isn’t just a popular photo opportunity but also a place of historical significance. In Hawaiian the word Pali means cliff and the Pali Lookout was where the Battle of Nuuanu took place in 1795. During the battle, hundreds of soilders were forced off the sheer cliffs and King Kamehameha won which resulted in Oahu uniting under his rule. There are plaques which explain this tragic event in more detail at the lookout.

Note: parking costs $3 and it can be incredibly windy at the look out (it isn’t called the Windward coast for nothing!)

views over windward coast oahu including mountains and blue sky

Lanikai Pillbox Hike

Location: 265 Kaelepulu Dr. Kailua, HI 96734

From Pali look out it is an approximately 20 minute drive to Lanikai Pillbox hike– one of the most rewarding hikes on Oahu. It’s one of the best hikes if you’re struggling for time in your Oahu itinerary as it takes just 30 minutes to hike to the first pillbox or if you’re feeling a little more adventurous (and have more time on your hands) you can visit all three pillboxes in around 90 minutes.

It is a relatively easy hike too (heck, I managed it in a dress and trainers!) the hardest part is the start as its really steep but don’t let that put you off as the views are incredible. You can admire the award winning Lanikai Beach (your next stop) Kaneohe Bay, Mokula Islands, the Chinaman’s Hat and Kailua Beach. As you descend keep an eye out for views of the enchanted lake and Kaneohe Marine base.

Lanikai Beach or Waimānalo Beach Park

After viewing it from above, what better way to relax after your hike than a refreshing swim at Lanikai Beach. Fun fact, this beach was the first time Darren had EVER swam in the sea! Once you see the crystal blue waters, you too will find it hard to resist. The reefs here are also popular with snorkellers (especially beginners) as its super safe compared to the fierce swells elsewhere on the island.

Enjoy the rest of your afternoon here or if it gets a little crowded, you can also head to Kailua Beach which is just 5 minutes away. Kailua is equally stunning and also has gentle waves ideal for snorkellers or families.

girl with ginger hair standing on hill looking over houses and blue sea

Camp at Bellow Field Beach Park

If you are not ready to leave the beach as the sun sets, we have a sneaky tip which was one of our best memories from our Oahu itinerary – camp! Forget the overpriced beach resorts and instead fall asleep to the waves lapping on the shore, shmores in hand and stars overhead as you can camp right on the beach at Bellows Field Beach Park just 20 minutes from Lanikai Beach.

Camping is ideal if you are backpacking Hawaii as the views are unbeatable but it is SO cheap! A 3 day camping pass for Bellows costs just $32 for up to six people. Book Here.

OAHU ITINERARY DAY 5: BEST VIEWS ON THE ISLAND

You have made it to the final day of your Oahu itinerary, so depending on when your flight is, or if you camped out last night you now have the choice of 3 epic Oahu attractions to finish your trip. We managed to squeeze in all 3 on our final day as we started SUPER early before sunrise.

In this Oahu 5 day itinerary we have snorkelled, sipped and sunbathed our way round the island – now it is time to admire the epicness of Oahu from above and enjoy the best views on the island.

Watch the Sunrise from Koko head

What better way to end your 5 days in Oahu than capture your final sunrise on this epic island. To be honest, we’ve saved the best until last as the iconic Koko Head stairs are one of the most challenging but rewarding hikes we’ve ever done.

In order to admire sunrise from the summit, you will need to start this hike in the dark BUT this is a huge advantage as it is so much cooler starting early. Be warned, it is still surprisingly busy at this time and don’t forget a head torch as you will need your hands during parts of the climb!

The Koko Crater Trail is also known as the Koko Head Stairs as it consists of a staggering 1050 steps. The “steps” are actually an old railroad which was historically used by the military to run supplies up to the Air Force Station during World War II. The hike is both steep, invogirating, a tad terrifying in parts but overall you’ll be admiring the sunrise at the summit in less than an hour.

It’s not like us to sugar coat the truth, so for a true representation behind those sunrise Instagram snaps, we recommend watching our Youtube video of the kokohead hike.

Brunch at Island Brew Coffee House

Location: 377 Keahole St, Honolulu, HI 96825, USA

Before your 5 days in Oahu are over, there is still time to squeeze in one last smoothie bowl and Island Brew Coffee House is THE place to do it. It offers the most tranquil views and delicious coffee, providing the perfect spot to refuel after your hike. You may want to take advantage of that caffeine kick as the final stop in your Oahu itinerary does involve another wee climb…

Makapu’u Lighthouse

Location: Makapuu Lighthouse Rd, Honolulu, HI 96825

You probably imagined this itinerary for Oahu would be all hula honeys and cocktails on the beach, so we apologised that your final day contains not one but TWO hikes. Bare with us. Makapu’u lighthouse is not only one of the most famous Oahu attractions but is it also one of the easiest hikes on Oahu.

It is the iconic spot where Drew Barrymore & Adam Sandler shared their first kiss on 50 First Dates, but it also one of the best whale watching spots on the island. The gentle hike is paved the entire way with several view points, during our walk we even saw families take push chairs and pets so it’s suitable for the entire family.

It takes less than an hour to reach the light house but note, access to the lighthouse itself is forbidden but the views are breathtaking none the less.

TIP: Either before or after your hike, visit the Makapuu Tide Pools. Very few tourists new about this beautiful spot as many people walk past on their way to the lighthouse. Be warned the rocky climb (and fierce swells in Winter) don’t make it a very safe place for children to venture, but otherwise it is an epic place for a refreshing dip or photo opportunity. 

lighthouse on cliff edge looking out onto blue sea and sky

Waimānalo Beach Park

Location: 41-741 Kalanianaʻole Hwy, Waimanalo

Hiking may not be how you planned to spend the last day of your Oahu itinerary which is why we’re gonna finish with Waimānalo Beach Park, if you didn’t have time to visit earlier. Following your early start and two hikes under your belt you deserve an afternoon of sand and sea, with Waimānalo Beach Park being one of the best beaches on Oahu to enjoy just that.

Best of all, it’s just a 6 minute drive from the Makapu’u lighthouse trail so you have time to make your last day in Oahu one  to remember!

We hope you will find this Oahu 5 day itinerary covers the highlights and hidden gems of this incredible island. From the best hikes, to local foodie finds we can guarantee with this guide you will cover all bases and have an epic time on Oahu. Let us know in the comments if we’re missing your favourite place from our Oahu itinerary, we’re always looking for excuses to return!

oahu pinterest pin
hawaii travel pin with turtle, surfer,temple and beach

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When Darren the WordPress wizard & excel enthusiast met Lauren the storyteller and wannabe wanderluster, a grand adventure was bound to happen. Through Faramagan they document their tales (and fails) with a refreshing and unfiltered approach. By avoiding adulthood one adventure at a time, they hope to inspire others to do the same.

This Post Has 4 Comments

  1. Manish Ambaliya

    Amazing! I know nothing about traveling all over the country, what a wonderful looking place to explore.

  2. Erika 英語

    Great itinerary! I will use this as a guide when I travel to Oahu.

  3. 線上課程

    26°C in Winter!! Thanks for your information. Looking forward to seeing whales on my Oahu trip!

  4. Ceren

    Aloha! Who would like to take me to there?

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