Honolulu (Oʻahu) Events, Tours & Things to Do 2025

Beach days, ridge-line hikes, Pearl Harbor history, and Waikīkī sunset sails—Honolulu is adventure wrapped in aloha. Use this guide to compare tickets, book top tours, and plan an Oʻahu trip you’ll actually brag about.

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Jump to: Luaus & Nightlife · Pearl Harbor & WWII History · Waikīkī Sails & Snorkel · Kualoa Ranch & Circle-Island · Hikes & Nature · Beaches & Surf Lessons · Family & Culture · By Month · FAQ

Luaus & Nightlife

Fire-knife finales, imu (underground oven) feasts, and hula under the stars—Oʻahu luaus are unforgettable evenings. Most include dinner and transport.

Popular Luaus

• Paradise Cove Luau (Ko Olina)
• Chief’s Luau (Kapolei)
• Polynesian Cultural Center Luau & Show (North Shore)
• Germaine’s Luau (ʻEwa Beach)

Pearl Harbor & WWII History

Timed entries and transport options simplify your visit so you can focus on the story of December 7, 1941.

Key Sites

• USS Arizona Memorial (boat transfer required)
• Battleship Missouri (Ford Island)
• Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum
• USS Bowfin Submarine & Park

Tip: Morning slots are calmest; bags must be clear and small.

Waikīkī Sails & Snorkel

Catamarans launch right off the beach—choose from snorkel trips with sea turtles, sunset cruises, or winter whale-watching sails.

Easy Wins

• Waikīkī sunset catamaran (open bar available)
• Turtle Canyon snorkel boat
• Seasonal whale-watch (Dec–May)
• Glass-bottom boat or submarine tours

Kualoa Ranch & Circle-Island

Jurassic-valley ATVs, secret beaches, and scenic loops around Oʻahu—these tours cover it all with easy hotel pickup.

Top Picks

• Kualoa Ranch ATV & Movie Site Tours
• Full Circle-Island Day Trip (North Shore, Dole, Halona Blowhole)
• Byodo-In Temple & Nuʻuanu Pali Lookout

Hikes & Nature

From crater rims to rainforest waterfalls—guided hikes simplify permits and parking.

Don’t Miss

• Diamond Head (Leʻahi) summit trail (timed entry)
• Manoa Falls waterfall trail
• Makapuʻu Lighthouse coastal walk
• Kaʻena Point wildlife refuge (seasonal birds)

Beaches & Surf Lessons

Waikīkī’s gentle rollers make it perfect for first waves or SUP sessions. Morning conditions are best.

Quick Picks

• Group or private surf lesson (Waikīkī)
• Stand-up paddle session
• Outrigger canoe surf (Beachboy style)
• Shark-cage snorkel (Haleʻiwa, North Shore)

Family & Culture

Kid-friendly adventures and hands-on island heritage experiences for all ages.

• Polynesian Cultural Center (villages + night show)
• Honolulu Zoo & Waikīkī Aquarium
• Iolani Palace & Bishop Museum
• Sea Life Park Oʻahu

Honolulu by Month

Trade winds keep temps steady year-round; winter brings whales and North Shore surf.

• Jan–Mar: Whale season & surf competitions
• Apr–Jun: Calm seas & spring blooms
• Jul–Sep: Long beach days & sunset cruises
• Oct–Dec: Cooler trails & holiday boat parades

Honolulu FAQ

Do I need a car?

Not for Waikīkī—tours include pickup, and rideshare covers short hops. Rent a car for North Shore freedom.

How early should I book Pearl Harbor & Diamond Head?

As soon as you know your dates—morning slots fill fast.

Where should I stay?

Waikīkī for beach access, Ko Olina for resort vibes, North Shore for laid-back surf towns.

Is Hanauma Bay included in tours?

Usually not—it requires its own reservation and capacity limit. Many tours stop at the overlook only.

When is whale season?

December through May (peak sightings Jan–Mar).