At the time of writing, I’ve been to Hawai’i a grand total of 5 times. Our first was an island cruise back in 2011, followed by subsequent trips back in 2013, 2015, 2017, and 2023. We’ve spent full weeks on the island of Oahu as well as a few days on Kauai. To say that we’ve done everything there is to do on Oahu would be a lie. But on my most recent trip to Oahu, I had the chance to go back and do all the things I’ve done before since it was X’s first time. I created an ideal week-long itinerary. And while we didn’t quite get around to all the activities on the itinerary, I figured I’d share it for those who are planning their own trip to the beautiful island of Oahu. 

Day 1: Waikiki / Waikiki Beach 
Spend your first day lounging on the sand at the world famous Waikiki Beach. The water is a gorgeous clear blue and the weather is usually always nice. Bring a towel to lay down on the beach or you can rent loungers from various vendors along the beach. After spending the day at the beach, walk around Waikiki to get some souvenir shopping done. The Royal Hawaiian Center is home to many stores, both local and international. My favorite stores include the ubiquitous ABC Stores, which sell all sorts of souvenirs and practical items, and Honolulu Cookie Company, which is a stop I make every time I visit the islands. 

Day 2: Hanauma Bay 
Hanauma Bay is one of the best snorkeling spots on Oahu – mostly because the bay is well protected against large waves. It’s a great spot for beginner snorkelers and the facilities on the beach make it super easy for tourists and visitors to rent equipment. Here, you can spot all sorts of fish, both big and small. You have to reserve tickets 2 days in advance, at 7AM Hawaii local time. They do sell out very quickly, so I highly suggest being flexible with your timing if this is a bucket list item. Also, come as early as you can, as the water gets sandy and murky the later in the day it is. 

Day 3: Pearl Harbor 
Pearl Harbor is Hawai’i’s most visited attraction, with more than 1.8 million visitors a year. Here, you can visit the USS Arizona Memorial, which sits on top of the sunken USS Arizona. On the morning of the surprise attacks, bombs hit the USS Arizona, causing a massive explosion, sinking the ship, and killing 1,177 soldiers. At the USS Arizona Memorial, you can honor the lives of the soldiers who gave theirs during the Second World War. The USS Bowfin Submarine Museum and Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum is located within the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. In addition to the USS Arizona Memorial, you can also visit the USS Missouri Battleship on Ford Island, where the Instrument of Surrender, which ended WWII was officially signed. Entry to the USS Arizona Memorial is free, but advance reservations are strongly encouraged and available 56 days in the future. 

Day 4: North Shore / Waimea Valley 
No visit to Oahu is complete without a drive up to the North Shore. Your first stop should be the Dole Plantation, where you can take a train tour of the many fruits and plants grown at the plantation and learn about the history of Dole. The main attraction, for me at least, is having their famous Dole Whip. After the Dole Plantation, stop for lunch at the many shrimp trucks that dot the North Shore. We prefer Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck, but there are many to choose from. Finish the day at Waimea Valley, known for its expansive botanical gardens, waterfall, and Native Hawaiian history. While you’re there, I highly recommend Toa Luau, which is by far, the best luau I have ever been to on the island. You can read my detailed North Shore post here. 

Day 5: Diamond Head Hike 
Diamond Head is a small volcanic cone that has become a popular hike for locals and tourists alike. Hiking to the top, which takes about 45 – 60 minutes, offers some of the best views of Waikiki on the island. It’s not a hard hike up, but parts of the hike contain uneven roads, so make sure you wear proper footwear and bring water! You can read my detailed Diamond Head Hike post here. 

Day 6: Iolani Palace / Bishop Museum 
Spend the day learning some history of the islands. Start the day at Iolani Palace, the royal residence of the rulers of the Kingdom of Hawai’i. Built in 1882 by King Kalakaua, the last king of Hawai’i, it remained the royal residence until the Hawaiian monarchy was overthrown in 1893. Today, it stands as a living restoration of Hawaiian history. The Palace runs a variety of tours daily from Tuesday through Saturday. Finish your day off with a visit to the Bishop Museum, the world’s largest collection of Polynesian cultural artifacts. It is also home to over 24 million natural history specimens. Here you can immerse yourself in Hawai’i’s rich culture and learn about their extraordinary history. 

Day 7: Beach Day 
After an eventful few days, kick back and relax on the beach on your last day. If you’re looking to go where the locals go, check out Ala Moana Beach Park. It’s family friendly, with shallow water for young ones or less experienced swimmers. Kailua Beach Park on the east windward side of the island is another great spot. With clear water and sandy beach, it’s the perfect spot for lounging. 

Note: If Diamond Head is a bit too strenuous of a hike, I highly recommend the Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail. The entire way up is paved and it is as equally as amazing views. You can read more about it here.