View of China mans Hat from Kualoa Beach Park in Oahu

71 Awesome Things to Do on Oahu With Your Family

If you’re looking for things to do on Oahu, you just might be feeling overwhelmed. This tends to happen as there’s so much to see and do on this beautiful island! 

With so many options, it can be hard to know where to start. Do you want to explore the rainforest or visit some historical sites? Or maybe you’d rather just hang out on the beach all day?

This blog post is packed with information about Oahu’s best things to do. Whether you’re into nature, history, or just relaxing on the beach, we’ve got something for everyone!

Visit the Breathtaking Beaches of Oahu

This should be a no-brainer. Oahu is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Whether you’re into swimming, surfing, or just lying on the sand and soaking up the sun, you’ll find what you’re looking for here. Below are some of the top beaches on Oahu.

Kualoa Mountain Range in Oahu Hawaii

(1) Visit Oahu’s Picture-Perfect Lanikai Beach

Located on the windward side of Oahu, Lanikai Beach is famous for its clear turquoise waters and powdery white sand beach. It’s the perfect place to relax and soak up some sun.

From here, you will also have the perfect view of the Mokulua Islands. Lanikai Beach is by far our favorite beach in Hawaii. 

A couple kayaking to the Mokulua Islands from Lanikai Beach in the perfect clear blue water.
Lanikai Beach, Oahu

(2) Relax at Kailua Beach

Kailua Beach is another great option if you’re looking for a perfect beach with multiple activities. You can swim, snorkel, kayak, windsurf, kitesurf, and more!

Kailua Beach is known for its clear waters and perfect white sand beach. This beach is also located on the windward side of Oahu, about a 3-minute drive from Lanikai Beach.

Perfect golden white sand beach at Kailua on Oahu, with gorgeous blue waters.
Kailua Beach, Oahu

(3) Spend the Day at Hanauma Bay

Hanauma Bay is a must-see if you’re interested in snorkeling or seeing incredible marine life. The bay is home to over 80 species of fish, making it a snorkeler’s paradise.

Perfect blue water, white sand beach and coral at Hanauma Bay with mountain views.
Hanauma Bay, Oahu

(4) People Watch at Waikiki Beach

Waikiki Beach is one of the most famous beaches in the world. It’s located in the heart of Honolulu and is an excellent place to people watch, go swimming, surf, or just relax on the beach. 

If you’re like many people that visit Oahu, Waikiki Beach is probably the reason you are here.

Birds eye view of Waikiki Beach on Oahu with perfect blue water, white sand beach and Diamond Head in the background.
Waikiki Beach, Oahu

(5) Spend Some Time at Halona Beach Cove

Halona Beach Cove is a secluded beach located on the southeast shore of Oahu. It is known for its dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and tranquil atmosphere. 

Many people skip Halona Beach Cove after viewing the Halona Blowhole – don’t be that person and miss out on an amazing opportunity! Take the short hike down and spend some time relaxing at this beach and enjoying the perfect views.

Perfect golden sand beach at Halona Beach Cove with the gorgeous blue water and fantastic cliffs on both sides.
Halona Beach Cove, Oahu

(6) Stroll Through Sunset Beach

Located on the North Shore of Oahu, Sunset Beach is one of the best places in Hawaii to catch a wave. This beach made our list of the best beaches on the North Shore.

This beach is also a great place to watch the sunset over the water. Definitely add Sunset Beach as one of your stops when visiting the North Shore of Oahu.

Sunset Beach with the perfect golden sand and blue water, plus some palm trees.
Sunset Beach, Oahu

(7) Explore Wild-life at Laniakea Beach

Laniakea Beach, also known as “Turtle Beach,” is a great place to see turtles in their natural habitat. This beach is located on the North Shore of Oahu and is known for its clear waters and golden sand beach.

Green see turtles napping on the perfect white sand beach at Laniakea  on Oahu.
Laniekea Beach, Oahu

(8) Waimea Beach Park

Waimea Beach Park is located on the North Shore of Oahu and is known for its huge waves. This beach is a popular spot for surfing and bodyboarding. 

Make sure to stop by Waimea Valley before or after your visit to Waimea Beach. Waimea Valley is located across the street from the beach.

People swimming in the water at Waimea Beach Park on Oahu, with golden white sand beach and some waves.
Waimea Bay, Oahu

(9) Soak Up the Sun at Waimanalo Beach Park

Waimanalo Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches on Oahu. It’s perfect for a day of relaxing and soaking up the sun. 

The beach is located on the island’s east side and is about a 30-minute drive from Honolulu.