The island of Oahu is where cosmopolitan city meets breathtaking tropical beauty, making it one of Hawaii’s hottest beach destinations. It’s a place where you can do it all or do nothing, making it a perfect choice for a honeymoon, a dream vacation for the family or a multi-generational reunion. Famous Waikiki Beach pulses with action all day long and into the night—whether you’re in the water, on the beach, or in the restaurants and shops. You’ll want to take time to learn about the rich history and culture of Oahu. Visit Pearl Harbor, try some of the uniquely Hawaiian activities such as outrigger canoeing and surfing on the famous North Shore. Stroll the International Marketplace and join in the traditional entertainment of the Polynesian Cultural Center. A visit to Oahu guarantees you’ll catch the aloha sprit.

Weather and Geography

Oahu has 112 miles of coastline that is comprised of a varied landscape of sandy beaches, rock cliffs and rugged lava fields. The capital of Hawaii, Honolulu, is located on Oahu and is home to famous Waikiki Beach. Weather on all of the Hawaiian Islands is very consistent, with only moderate changes in temperature throughout the year. On Oahu, the third largest of the Hawaiian Islands, you can expect average temperatures year-round between 70-85ºF.  It’s slightly more rainy from October through March, with the most rainfall occurring in January.

Quick Facts

• Honolulu is a big city that has a good public transportation system that makes it easy to explore. It’s also loaded with dining options that run the gamut from five-star to budget.
  
  
• Oahu experiences morning showers in the mountains on nearly a daily basis. These don’t affect the resort areas near the beach, but visitors all over the island can enjoy the stunning rainbows that result from them.

Expert Travel Tips

• Hawaii is a basically informal place. It’s warm all year long, and casual clothing is acceptable nearly everywhere. In the winter, pack a light jacket or sweater to protect yourself from the occasional rain storm.
  
  
• Pay your respects and learn about the attack on Pearl Harbor and World War II in the Pacific at the USS Arizona Memorial in Honolulu.
  
  
• Visit the Polynesian Cultural Center, which features seven Pacific Island villages on 42 acres, plus Hawaii’s most authentic luau plus a canoe pageant and evening show.
  
  
• Get a map of the island once you arrive so you’ll have points of interest and importance, hiking trails, beaches and more at your fingertips.

Find A Place To Stay