Oʻahu
The Heart of Hawaiʻi
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Welcome to Oʻahu
Sometimes called “The Gathering Place,” Oʻahu certainly lives up to its name. The third largest Hawaiian island is home to the majority of Hawaiʻi’s diverse population, a fusion of East and West cultures rooted in the values and traditions of the Native Hawaiian people. It’s this fundamental contrast between the ancient and the modern that makes discovering Oʻahu — from bustling city life to laidback surf towns — so enjoyable. You'll find plenty of different transportation options for exploring Oʻahu's different regions, the island's many activities, its eclectic restaurants and accommodations.
Videos: Get Inspired to Visit Oʻahu
Regions of Oʻahu
Kaʻena Point is a scenic and sacred spot where, legend says, the souls of ancient Hawaiians would jump off into the spirit world to meet the souls of their ancestors.
Learn MoreThe most popular beach on the Leeward Coast offers ocean-lovers a long stretch of golden sand to play or relax.
Learn MoreThis laid-back surfer town offers beautiful beaches, tasty local restaurants and food trucks, cool shops and plenty of shave ice.
Learn MoreThis beloved beach is popular with locals and visitors alike, and was an influential surf spot during the dawn of big wave surfing in the 1950s.
Learn MoreHike to this scenic point on Oʻahu’s easternmost tip for incredible views and whale watching during the winter.
Learn MoreNuʻuanu Pali Lookout is one of Oʻahu’s most popular scenic spots, with panoramic views of the Windward Coast and the Koʻolau Mountains.
Learn MoreValley of the Temples Memorial Park houses Byodo-in, a stunning replica of a Japanese Buddhist Temple set in a lush forest.
Learn MoreHonolulu
The state capital and largest city in Hawaiʻi, Honolulu is a unique combination of tropical glamour and buzzing international metropolis, where sandy shores meet city streets.
Learn MoreCentral Oʻahu
Gain a unique perspective on World War II with a visit to Pearl Harbor, or explore the island's agricultural traditions at the Dole pineapple plantation.
Learn MoreLeeward Coast
This area on Oʻahu's west side is home to rural towns, off-the-beaten-path beaches and one luxurious resort area, Kō Olina.
Learn MoreNorth Shore
Rub shoulders with champion surfers and laid-back locals on Oʻahu’s North Shore, the big wave surfing capital of the world.
Learn MoreWindward Coast
It’s only a short drive from Honolulu to enjoy the highlights of Oʻahu’s lush Windward Coast, including the peaceful Byodo-in Temple and adventurous Kuaola Ranch.
Learn MoreThings to Do on Oʻahu
Get Around Oʻahu
Oʻahu Transportation Options
Discover O‘ahu’s many transportation options that make it easy for you to explore our island.
MoreOʻahu Sustainable Travel Tips
Discover practical tips for exploring O‘ahu in a sustainable manner.
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