3-Day Oahu Itinerary | The Best Things to Do on Oahu

When it comes to Hawaii, Oahu tends to be the island that people fly into from the Continental US, and then hop to other islands, but there are so many great things to do on Oahu! As one of the main Hawaiian Islands, Oahu offers a diverse range of activities and attractions. I’ve rounded up a few of my favorite things to do on Oahu in this not-to-be-missed 3-day Oahu itinerary. Let’s start with the basics!

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How to Get There: Hawaiian Airlines is the official carrier of Hawaii, but most major airlines (American, United, Delta, Southwest) offer flights from the West Coast, Texas, or Chicago.

Where to Stay: If you’re only going to be on Oahu for 3 days, I’d strongly suggest staying in the Waikiki area. If you’re staying longer, consider a split stay between the Waikiki area and the North Shore. For Waikiki, I’d suggest the Courtyard by Marriott Waikiki Beach. It’s not beachfront, but it’s an easy five-ish minute walk and that’s what makes it more affordable than a lot of Waikiki Hotels. For the West side, I’m a Disney girl, so I’m going to say Aulani.

But if Disney isn’t your thing, I’d suggest the Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina. It’s a splurge for sure, but it’s a stunning property in a great location! Alternatively, consider Turtle Bay Resort on the North Shore, which offers a range of amenities and activities including spa treatments at Nalu Spa and unique culinary experiences.

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Do You Need a Car? I find it preferable to have a car on Oahu, but there is public transportation within Waikiki, Ubers are available, and some tours offer Waikiki pickup.

Day 1: Discovering Honolulu

Start your day early with fresh malasadas from Leonard’s Bakery or one of their mobile malasada trucks. These fluffy Portuguese donuts are the perfect snack before a short, but steep hike at Diamond Head. Getting malasadas from Leonard’s is one of my must-do things to do on Oahu every trip!

Be sure to make entry and parking reservations in advance for Diamond Head or you will be denied access. The breathtaking views from the summit are well worth the climb! If you’re looking for a tougher hike, try Koko Crater Trail!

Afterwards, refuel with breakfast at Eggs ‘n Things. Sign up for their online waitlist to get seated a little faster! And if you’ve never tried SPAM and eggs, now’s the time!

When you’re ready for lunch, two of my favorites are Rainbow Drive-Inn for their Loco Moco Plate Lunches and Marugame Udon.

Spend the rest of the day on Waikiki Beach. If you’re a shade lover like me, umbrellas are available for rent (around $20 for 2 hours) and you can rent surfboards and boogie boards and even take surf lessons. While you’re there, stop by the statue of Duke Kahanamoku, a Hawaiian who popularized the sport of surfing.

As the sun sets, make your way to Downtown Honolulu. This area comes alive in the evening with a vibrant nightlife scene. Explore the numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants that offer a taste of the local culture and cuisine. Whether you’re in the mood for a laid-back bar or a lively club, Downtown Honolulu has something for everyone.

For those interested in Polynesian culture and history, a visit to the Bishop Museum is highly recommended. The museum houses significant artifacts and exhibits related to Polynesian navigation and history, providing a deep appreciation of this rich cultural heritage while exploring Oahu.

Day 2: North Shore Adventure

Start your day with a visit to the famous North Shore, renowned for its big wave surf beaches and laid-back atmosphere. Your first stop should be Waimea Bay, a stunning beach with crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand. It’s a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, or simply soaking in the natural beauty.

North Shore Beaches

The North Shore of Oahu is renowned for its stunning beaches, each offering a unique experience for beach lovers. Waimea Bay is a must-visit, known for its powerful waves and picturesque scenery, making it a favorite among both swimmers and sunbathers. Sunset Beach, with its soft white sand and crystal-clear waters, is perfect for a relaxing day by the ocean.

For surfing enthusiasts, Pipeline Beach is the place to be, famous for its powerful waves and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. If you’re looking for a more secluded spot, Laniakea Beach is a hidden gem with calm waters and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you’re there to surf, swim, or simply relax, the North Shore beaches offer something for everyone.

For an alternative to the North Shore beaches, consider Kailua Beach on Oahu’s Windward Coast. Known for its favorable conditions for water sports like kite surfing and windsurfing, Kailua Beach also offers a family-friendly atmosphere with beautiful sandy shores, picnic tables, and restrooms.

If movies are your thing, pre-book the 2.5-hour Jurassic Adventure Tour at Kualoa Ranch. You’ll see iconic film sites made famous in the Jurassic Park movies as you tour the Hakipu’u and Ka’a’awa Valleys.

Dino-sightings complete, pay a visit to the Byodo-In Temple. The temple commemorates the 100-year anniversary of the first Japanese immigrants to Hawaii.

In the afternoon, head to Haleiwa, a charming surf town with a rich history and culture. Stroll through the town’s quaint streets, explore local shops, and dine at one of the many eateries offering fresh, local cuisine. Haleiwa’s relaxed vibe and friendly locals make it a perfect end to your North Shore adventure.

Parked along Kamehameha Highway are numerous shrimp trucks (Kahuku Shrimp and Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck are two of the more notable ones). Stop at one (or many!) and sample from their shrimp plate lunches before heading to Matsumoto’s Shave Ice for, you guessed it, shave ice!

Continue your adventure with a visit to the Dole Plantation, a working pineapple plantation that offers tours and tastings.

Dole Plantation and Pineapple Express

The Dole Plantation is a delightful attraction on Oahu, offering a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages. Start with a tour of the plantation to learn about the history of pineapple farming in Hawaii. Then, hop on the Pineapple Express, a historic train that takes you through the scenic plantation grounds.

Don’t miss the chance to indulge in some delicious pineapple treats, including pineapple ice cream and pineapple upside-down cake. For those feeling adventurous, the plantation’s scenic trails offer a great opportunity for a hike, providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It’s a perfect blend of history, nature, and delicious food.

Day 3: Outdoor Activities and Cultural Experiences

Explore the Hawaiian Islands’ unique geographical features and vibrant marine life! Start your day with Kaneohe Bay Sandbar. You can swim, snorkel, sunbathe, stand-up paddle, and kayak on this three-hour tour (and you’re guaranteed to not end up like Gilligan!)

After a shower and a bite to eat (try Rainbow Drive-Inn or Marugame Udon, wherever you didn’t eat on Day 1), head to the harbor. Pearl Harbor!

Pearl Harbor National Memorial

The Pearl Harbor National Memorial is a poignant and essential stop on your Oahu itinerary, paying tribute to the lives lost during the historic attack on December 7, 1941. Located on the north shore of Pearl Harbor, the memorial features a shrine room with the names of all the lives lost during the attack. Visitors can take a boat tour of the harbor to see the USS Arizona Memorial, which is built above the sunken battleship, offering a solemn and reflective experience.

The memorial also houses a museum with exhibits and artifacts from the attack, providing a deep dive into this pivotal moment in World War II history. Additionally, the Pacific Aviation Museum offers further insights into the aviation history of the era. Be sure to plan your visit in advance, as the memorial can get crowded, especially during peak season.

Wrap up your day with a sunset dinner cruise and enjoy dinner and cocktails as you cruise the Waikiki shoreline and watch the sun dip below the horizon. Once you get back to shore, swing by Island Vintage Shave Ice and cap off your evening with a Lilikoi Shave Ice!