Going to Hawaii? Plan a Few Exciting Days on Oahu
Aloha and welcome to Oahu! For over 20 years our family of all ages has been traveling to Oahu, definitely worth a visit, and now as seniors, we are privileged to continue to bring family members with us to our favorite island.
Considerations for your First Visit to Oahu
What are the ages and desires of your family members?
Are there seniors, babies, a mix of youngsters and teens, teens-only?
Be sure to consider the stamina of the visitors—How many hours are they able to enjoy an activity? How many activities would be just right or too much? What do they want to do? Teens will have different ideas about where they want to spend their time than youngsters.
How many days do you have and how many of those days do you have transportation?
Plan your most-desired activities and your most time-consuming activities first.
Make reservations and book tickets. For example, if you are planning a luau, a visit to Haunama Bay, or a visit to the Polynesian Cultural Center, book these first and get your tickets. Fill in your other activities around these events. Do not overbook yourself!!
Check the proximity of the activities to each other.
For example, there may be beaches or tourist sites near where you will be that would be easy to reach from your main destination.
Plan a few days to do nothing! Enjoy the beach near your hotel, the sun, do a little shopping and wander.
Oahu Family Musts that make Oahu Worth a Visit:
Polynesian Cultural Center.
The Polynesian Cultural Center should definitely be on your family’s itinerary and is worth a visit. Plan a full day here as you visit the islands of Polynesia: Hawaii, Samoa, Tonga, Aotearoa, Fiji, and Tahiti.
At each of the stops around the center, you will be given first-hand glimpses into the culture, traditions, games, and dances of the various Polynesian sites.
Often the guides to the various villages are residents of that particular island, and you will be asked to participate in activities that are provided. The parade of the longboat canoes highlights all the six islands and is worth staying for.
You may opt to linger on for the whole evening and enjoy a luau as well.
Open: Monday-Saturday, 12:45 – 9:00 pm
Closed Sundays, Wednesdays, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day
Driving directions, from their website:
After the evening show, most visitors and tourist buses follow the reverse of this route back to Waikiki, turning east on the H-1 freeway and following the exit signs to Waikiki.
Tickets:
For tickets to the Islands of Polynesia only:
For tickets to the full day at Polynesia Cultural Center including the luau:
If you would like to book the Arizona Memorial and the Polynesian Cultural Center in combination with transportation:
Pearl Harbor
Unless your family is very young, a trip to Pearl Harbor will be one they will never forget and another reason Oahu is worth a visit. What happened during World War II, on June 7, 1941, is an event in American history that is worth honoring and remembering.
The Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor changed the course of the war and was a turning point for America’s entrance into the war.
You are able to visit the Arizona Memorial, constructed over the remains of the Arizona Battleship itself, and pay your tributes to the servicemen who died there, many of whom are still entombed underwater.
The U.S. Navy provides transportation to the Memorial from the shore, by reserved tickets (free) only.
At the present time, the movie chronicling the event is no longer being shown in the theater. However, it is still available in an open-air viewing area behind the education building. This film is highly recommended so that visitors understand the gravity of what happened on June 7, 1941.
Programs (the shuttle from the shore to the Battleship) run daily, every 30 minutes from 8 am – 3:30 pm. Reservations are released daily at 3 p.m.
Everything you need to know about getting tickets is available here:
Keep in mind that even babies need tickets. Be sure to arrive early at the Memorial site, as parking is limited.
If you would like someone else to do the planning for you, and pick you up from your hotel as well, check out this tour, which also includes the Battleship Missouri:
Battleship Missouri:
While you’re at Pearl Harbor it is highly suggested that you schedule a tour of the Battleship Missouri.
Battleship Missouri was the site of the signing of the armistice that marked the end of World War II. Your family will enjoy roaming this ship and learning all about its role in American history.
Don’t forget to pose for a picture before boarding the ship, in the same stance as the sailor and his sweetheart in the iconic “kissing pose” statue.
Tickets may be reserved online. Tour guides will be available to answer your questions, and you will be offered a map for your own self-guided tour.
To get to the USS Missouri, you will need to board the free shuttle from the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, which runs every 15-20 minutes, starting at 8:00 AM. The last shuttle leaves the USS Missouri at 4:05 PM. For more information and to purchase tickets, go here:
Beaches on Oahu, are so worth a visit
You can’t leave Hawaii without time at the beach. Here are a few of our favorites, with notes about age-appropriateness. Please note that all beaches in Hawaii are public, and none of the following beaches cost to visit.
Waikiki
Waikiki and its excitement should certainly be part of your itinerary. The surfers, the crowds, and the food, and drinks, are definitely part of the aura that is Hawaii. Take time to enjoy it. Renting beach chairs may be expensive but offer an enjoyable and relaxing experience. See our post on saving money in Waikiki:
Kailua Beach Park
A beautiful white sand beach, Kailua Beach Park is on the windward side of Oahu, about 12 miles from Waikiki and a 30-minute drive along the Pali Highway.
Parking was plentiful when we visited, though the shade was limited for these older travelers, as the teenagers basked in the sun and enjoyed the calm waters.
Turtle Beach (Laniakea)
On the North Shore of Oahu is an unmarked beach where sea turtles bask and thrive.
You will find this beach at 61-489 Kamehameha Hwy, very close to Haleiwa Town. You will see many cars parked, but along the highway. Be patient as it is worth waiting for your own parking slot. For older travelers, be sure to find a safe path down to the beach through the rocks.
The turtles here are protected and fascinating to watch and photograph. The children will especially be enthralled.
Note that the sea turtles are forbidden by federal law to touch. Look for volunteers on the beach who might be able to give you more information about the turtles and their habitat and turn this into a learning experience for all.
Cliff-jumping at Waimea Bay
Do you have teenagers with you who are good swimmers? Jumping off the rocks at Waimea Bay might be just what they would love to do. This is best in the summer and should not be attempted when the waves are rough.
In the summer, parking at the free parking slots may be difficult and you may have to opt for paid parking just down the road from the beach.
Once there, allow some time for your teens (and you too if you’re so inclined) to jump from the rocks into the water, at your own risk.
Also available here are showers and restrooms, with a lifeguard on duty. A sandy beach and space for snorkeling make this a fun site for a beach day, though there is not much shade.
The Lagoon at Aulani
Looking for a fun and safe place for the kids to enjoy a beach, within walking distance of a Disney resort? Head to Aulani Lagoon. Spend your time enjoying the sandy lagoon and walk through the resort for Mickey Shave Ice.
The man-made lagoon is open to the public and since it is sheltered from the waves, is a safe place for even little children to play. Beware that it does get deep and that there is no lifeguard on duty, so be careful.
Aulani is located in Ko-olina, Hawaii, on the, about 30 minutes from Waikiki.
There is a free parking lot at the end of Kamoana Drive if you are lucky enough to find a room. Valet parking is available. Be sure you check for the daily rates. Parking validation may be available if you decide to eat lunch at the resort. Check when you arrive.
How to get from Waikiki to Disney Aulani.
Without a car. No shuttle is available from Waikiki and a bus will be a long, long ride. One way taxi could be as much as $100 one way.
Hanauma Bay State Park
Haunama Bay is worth a visit for first-time snorkelers and young children, though all ages and snorkel levels will enjoy it. The State Park offers a pristine, protected marine environment where you may interact with fish and marine animals in their natural habitat.
First-time visitors are required to watch a 9-minute video outlining the preservation, the safety rules, and details about the marine life they will see.
Hanauma Bay is open to the public Wednesdays through Sundays, with entry allowed from 6:45 AM to 1:30 PM. All visitors must leave by 4 PM, with the beach being cleared at 3:15 Pm. You must be in line 15 minutes before your slotted time, and you must present ID with your tickets.
Here is a link to the Parks and Recreation Department:
By Car. Hanauma Bay is located on the south side of the island of Oahu approximately 12 miles from Waikiki along the rouged south shore. The drive along the south shore of the island have some of the most scenic views on Oahu.
When driving out from Waikiki take the H1 Freeway until it ends and becomes Kalanianaole Hwy, then continue for approximately 8 miles. The entrance to Hanauma Bay is located on the right at the top of the hill just past the city of Hawaii Kai.
By Bus. If you don’t plan on driving you can catch the #22 bus from Waikiki, a 45-50 min one-way trip.
Parking at Hanauma Bay
Parking at Hanauma Bay is limited to 300 slots and is available on a first-come/first serve basis. This parking lot is known to be full before 7:00 AM so arrive early. No in and out privileges.
The cost per car is $3 for non-residents and $1 for residents. Do not leave belongings in your car, though the parking lot is supervised.
A free shuttle is available from the upper level down to the beach.
Reservations are required through the Parks and Recreation Department. Only 1000 visitors are allowed per day. Online reservations are available two days in advance starting at 7:00 AM Hawaiian Standard Time. A few tickets may be available at 6:45 AM on the day of your visit, but these will be very limited.
Renting snorkel gear
Snorkel gear is available to rent. Life vests are also available. The rental center opens at 7:00 AM. You are free to bring your own as well.
What you need to bring to Hanauma Bay
- Beach chairs and umbrella.
- Towels.
- Reef-safe sunscreen.
- Your own snorkels if you have them.
- A small cooler with water and snacks if you like. No large coolers are allowed. A snack bar is available on the upper level.
- Swimsuit or wet suit.
To keeping your belongings safe at Hanauma Bay look into lockers that are available to rent if needed.
Do not leave any belongings in your car or on the beach without supervision.
Note: Beach wheelchairs are available at no charge.
Luaus
A Hawaiian luau is a cultural and gastronomical treat that is available only in the islands and involves a feast of authentic Hawaiian foods and usually a show of Polynesian dances with perhaps even a fire dancer.
Most give their guests an opportunity for picture taking, a welcome lei, and even a glimpse of the fire pit where the kalua pig is roasting.
Here’s what you need to consider: Food and how it will be served (buffet or service), the show offered, cost, ambiance.
Here are those I recommend, in order:
Germaine’s
Why this one? When your kamaaina friends (Hawaiian residents) recommend a luau for its authenticity, we listen, and Germaine’s is their first choice. It has been acclaimed as America’s Best Luau in “America’s Best 100” and has been filmed by ABC’s “Good Morning America.“
Food: Typical Hawaiian fare: Kalua Pig (roasted in the ground, which you can witness), Poi (taro), Haupia (Coconut Pudding), as well as a mixture of salmon, fish, chicken, teriyaki beef, and an assortment of salads. Also available are rolls, vanilla cake, fresh pineapple, and rice.
Service: Buffet
Beverages: Depending on the package, 1-3 alcoholic beverage tickets are given with your ticket. Soft drinks and coffee are complimentary.
When you arrive: All guests will receive a shell lei.
Ambiance: Beachfront property on West Oahu.
Access: Wheelchair accessible.
Website To Reserve:
Hilton Hawaiian Village Luau.
Why this one? Excellent food, great authentic entertainment, the location right on Waikiki, at the Hilton Lagoon. Plus, the food is served if you are still nervous about buffets post-COVID. Professional photography is available.
Food: Resort quality food with authentic Hawaiian flavors, prepared with locally-sourced ingredients.
Beverages: Mai Tai Punch and your choice of one beverage, including beer and wine.
Service: Plates are served individually, and not buffet style.
When You Arrive: All guests are given a flower lei and treated to a group hula lesson.
Ambiance: Lagoon front, Waikiki, Hilton Hawaiian Village Resort
Access: Easy access for wheelchairs onto the grass from the sidewalk surrounding the Lagoon. ADA is accessible.
Schedule: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday (Sundays available beginning in June) beginning at 5:30 until approximately 8:30.
Why this one? Continually voted Hawaii’s Best by the Honolulu Advertiser, a myriad of cultural activities before dinner and show. Professional photography is available.
Food: Mix of traditional Hawaiian and continental cuisine, including kalua pig, salmon, chicken, various salads and desserts, coffee, and tea. For a full list of menu items:
Beverages: Complimentary Mai Tai Punch (alcoholic or nonalcoholic), plus $12 (adult) toward beverage or souvenir purchase. (Hawaiian Package)
Service: Buffet for Hawaiian and Paradise Packages; Food is served to the Deluxe Package. All you can eat.
When You Arrive: All guests are given a lei (Shell lei for Hawaiian Package, fresh flowers for Orchid and Deluxe Packages, and a Mai Tai punch).
Time is allowed to wander the grounds for various Hawaiian experiences, such as arts and crafts, games, a hukilau, and witnessing the Imu Ceremony, or the cooking of the kalua pig in the underground oven.
Access: Fully ADA accessible.
Price: Three pricings are available, depending on seating: Hawaiian, Orchid, and Deluxe. Check the latest pricing on their website.
Transportation is offered to and from your hotel for $35/per person.
See the website for all options and seating plans and to book. Advance registration is required.
Schedule: Open daily from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Getting There from Waikiki (from their website):
North Shore Drive.
There are two main routes from Waikiki to the North Shore: One around the island and one through the island. If this is your first time to the North Shore, you may want to consider the route around the island, but otherwise, save time and opt to travel through the island.
Around the island route, along the shoreline, with views of the ocean:
We suggest that you save many of the time-consuming stops along these routes (Polynesian Cultural Center, Hanauma Bay, hiking Diamond Head, etc.) for another day, so you can get the full flavor of your North Shore experience.
Here are the main stops worth a visit on our North Shore Drive:
Just 20 minutes out of Waikiki, be sure to stop at the Halona Blow Hole viewpoint to witness one of Hawaii’s natural wonders, created by water rushing through a lava tube.
The cove below was made famous in the kissing scene in “From Here to Eternity” and was featured in one of the Pirates of the Caribbean movies. Not recommended for swimming unless the water is very calm.
This is a must! When you near Kahuku, you will see the shrimp trucks, which are a fun choice for lunch, but for years we have been dining with the locals at Ted’s Bakery.
We order the garlic shrimp plate which comes with rice and macaroni salad, and your choice of the delicious cream pies (Approximately $15.) Then we sit at the picnic tables provided and enjoy!! You won’t need dinner after this.
Located at 59-024 Kamehameha Highway, just before Haleiwa Town.
Haleiwa Town is a fun place to wander and shop. If nothing else, be sure to stop at Matsumoto’s for Shave Ice.
A North Shore tradition, and worth the wait. Over 30 flavors of shave ice are available, and all are delicious.
Open every day except Christmas, Thanksgiving, and New Year’s Day.
Located at 66-111 Kamehameha Hwy.
Worth a visit is the Dole Pineapple Plantation on your way back to Waikiki. It is free to visit the plantation itself, and while you’re there, get the Dole Whip, an ice cream-like pineapple treat.
Also worth your time are the pineapple demonstrations given free. You will learn how to choose and cut a pineapple, skills that will serve you well back home.
If you would like to take the train tour or visit the pineapple maze, there is a cost involved.
Located at 64-1550 Kamehameha Hwy. Open every day but Christmas, 9:30 to 5:30.
Don’t have a car. This tour features pick up and drop off in Waikiki.
Oahu Itinerary:
3 days in Oahu:
Day One: Your choice: Pearl Harbor with a side trip to Aloha Stadium Swap Meet, Hanauma Bay, or your choice of the island’s beaches.
Day Two: North Shore Drive (See above). Return in time to attend one of the Luaus listed above.
Day Three: Enjoy Honolulu: Walk around Waikiki and enjoy Waikiki Beach. Just relax.
6 Days in Oahu:
Day One: Hanauma Bay (See above.)
Day Two: Pearl Harbor with a side trip to Aloha Stadium Swap Meet. (See above.)
Day Three: North Shore Drive (See above). Return in time to attend one of the Lusus listed above.
Day Four: Polynesian Cultural Center.
Day Five: Choose a beach from the lists given above. Relax and enjoy.
Day Six: Enjoy Honolulu: Walk around Waikiki and enjoy Waikiki Beach. Just relax.
Should I Get a Go Oahu Pass?
Answer: That depends!
- Check to see how many of the activities you would be apt to do and the cost will be worth your money.
- Go here for all the details – Oahu Pass. Be sure to check availability for the activities you desire:
Beware: Many of the activities will sell out and if you are late booking your pass, you may be out of luck.
Aloha!
You will find Oahu worth a visit! Hopefully, it won’t be your last.
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