Skip to content

Oahu is where Hawaii’s many worlds converge. The third largest Hawaiian island is home to nearly three-quarters of the state’s population, the capital city of Honolulu, the famous surf breaks of the North Shore, the lush rainforests of the Ko’olau Mountains, and some of the most historically significant sites in American history. It is simultaneously the most visited and the most varied of the Hawaiian Islands, offering big-city energy, world-class beaches, and genuine natural wilderness within a remarkably compact landmass. Waikiki delivers the classic Hawaii beach experience with its iconic stretch of sand, high-rise hotels, and buzzing restaurant and bar scene. The North Shore offers a completely different Hawaii, with legendary surf spots like Pipeline and Waimea Bay drawing the world’s best surfers every winter, and a laid-back small-town atmosphere that feels worlds apart from Honolulu. Between the two coasts, the Windward Side offers green valleys, dramatic ridgeline hikes, and some of the island’s most beautiful and uncrowded beaches. Pearl Harbor, the Polynesian Cultural Center, and the Bishop Museum add cultural and historical depth. Our Oahu travel guides cover beaches, hotels, resorts, luaus, activities, day trips, and everything you need to plan a visit to the Gathering Place.

Top