Ready for a journey to a place where city buzz meets beach bliss? Let’s dive into Oahu, the vibrant "Gathering Isle" of Hawaii! With over two-thirds of Hawaii's population living here, Oahu blends breathtaking nature, rich culture, and exciting city life.
Whether we dream of climbing mountains, chilling on sandy shores, or tasting local flavors, Oahu has it all waiting for us.
Where Exactly Is Oahu and How Big Is It?
Oahu sits in the middle of the Pacific Ocean at 21°28′N 157°59′W, covering about 596.7 square miles (1,545 square kilometers). It’s the third-largest Hawaiian island by area but the most populated one. Including small islands like Ford Island and islets in Kaneohe Bay, Oahu's size stays roughly the same. If we imagine it, Oahu stretches about 44 miles long and 30 miles wide — not too big, so it’s super friendly for exploring!
How to Get to Oahu
Getting here is a breeze. We fly into Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL), located right in Honolulu. From the airport, we can easily grab a taxi, ride a shuttle, or hop on a public bus to reach anywhere on the island.
- Taxi from airport to Waikiki: around $40-$50.
- Shuttle: about $17 one way.
- TheBus (public bus): only $3 per ride, exact change needed.
Where to Go: Must-Visit Places and Their Details
1. Pearl Harbor National Memorial
- Tickets: Free entry!
- USS Arizona Memorial Program: $1 service fee for online reservations.
- Opening Hours: 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM (closed on Christmas, and New Year’s Day).
- Tip: Reserve tickets online early—they run out fast!
2. Diamond Head State Monument
- Tickets: $5 per person + $10 parking fee per vehicle.
- Opening Hours: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM).
- Tip: Bring water and a hat! It’s a steep but short hike with killer views of Honolulu.
3. Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
- Tickets: $25 per person (12 years and older).
- Opening Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 6:45 AM to 1:30 PM (closed Monday and Tuesday).
- Tip: Snorkeling here is a dream, but we must watch a short marine conservation video first.
4. Waikiki Beach
- Tickets: Free!
- Tip: Wake up early for sunrise swims or stay for golden sunsets. Beach chairs and umbrellas are available for rent if we want extra comfort.
Best Time to Visit Oahu
The best months to visit Oahu are April, May, September, and October. During these months, the weather is lovely (around 80°F/27°C), and the crowds are smaller. Plus, hotel rates drop a bit compared to the holiday and summer seasons.
- High season: December to March (expect higher prices).
- Low season: Mid-April to early June, and September to mid-December.
How to Get Around Oahu
We have several fun options:
- TheBus: $3 per ride, or $7.50 for an unlimited one-day pass.
- Car rental: About $40–$70 per day. Highly recommended if we want to visit places outside Honolulu, like the North Shore.
- Biki bikes: Public bike-sharing around Honolulu, starting at $4.50 per 30 minutes.
- Tip: Traffic around Honolulu can be heavy during morning and afternoon rush hours. Plan beach trips and hikes earlier in the day!
Local Tips to Make Our Trip Smoother
1. Book major activities in advance: Especially for Pearl Harbor and Hanauma Bay.
2. Wear reef-safe sunscreen: Protect the corals while we swim and snorkel.
3. Respect local customs: A simple "Aloha" and a smile go a long way.
4. Stay hydrated: Hawaii’s sun is strong—carry a reusable water bottle.
Let's Make Memories in Oahu!
Lykkers, Oahu is calling us with its golden beaches, soaring mountains, and colorful underwater worlds! Every corner of this island promises a new surprise and a story waiting to be discovered. We can dive into history, chase the waves, hike up breathtaking trails, and simply let the island vibe sweep us away.
Got a place in Oahu you're excited about? Or maybe another dream destination in mind? Tell us, Lykkers—let’s plan our next big adventure together!
