Whether you love beaches, hiking, culture, wildlife, or historic landmarks, Oʻahu has something for everyone.

Here are the 10 best things to do in Oʻahu—from wild dolphin encounters to royal palaces and hidden temples.

1. Watch Wild Spinner Dolphins

If encountering dolphins is on your Hawaii bucket list, Oʻahu is one of the best places to do it.
The west side of the island is home to large pods of Hawaiian spinner dolphins, known for their playful spins and graceful movements.

Joining a responsible dolphin tour allows you to:

• Watch dolphins in their natural habitat
• Enjoy crystal-clear water and colorful tropical fish
• Learn about Hawaiian culture through the crew’s E Hō Mai ceremony
• Relax with complimentary lunch and ocean views on deck

Want a safe, respectful, and unforgettable dolphin experience?
Check out the Dolphins & You tour, Oʻahu’s most love-filled wild dolphin experience.

2. Explore Hawaiʻi’s Royal Heritage at ʻIolani Palace

Oʻahu is the only island in Hawaiʻi where a royal family lived in an official palace—and it’s the only royal palace in the entire United States.

Located in Downtown Honolulu, ʻIolani Palace was once home to Hawaiʻi’s aliʻi (monarchy) and remains a powerful symbol of Hawaiian history and identity.

Visitors can explore:

• The beautifully restored throne room
• Lavish European-style architecture
• Exhibits about Queen Liliʻuokalani and King Kalākaua
• Artifacts from Hawaiʻi’s royal era

If you want to dive deeper into Oʻahu’s cultural history, an island tour that shares local stories can help bring this history to life.

The Island and You Circle Island Tour includes cultural stories, food, historic spots, and scenic viewpoints all around Oʻahu.

3. Hike Oʻahu’s Most Scenic Trails

Oʻahu is paradise for hikers of all levels. Whether you prefer coastal views or challenging ridge climbs, there’s a trail for you.

Top hikes to try:

• Koko Head Crater: Over 1,000 steps straight up a volcanic crater. Tough but unforgettable sunrise views.
• Kaʻena Point: A peaceful coastal hike leading to a sanctuary for monk seals, seabirds, and dramatic cliffs.
• Olomana Trail (Three Peaks): For experienced hikers. Narrow ridges, steep climbs, and insanely rewarding views.

4. Visit Pearl Harbor & the USS Arizona Memorial

Oʻahu is home to one of the most significant historical sites in the United States.

At Pearl Harbor, visitors can:

• Learn about World War II
• Visit the USS Arizona Memorial
• Explore the museums and historical centers
• Take a boat shuttle to the memorial site

The USS Arizona Memorial is free, but reservations are strongly recommended.

This experience is meaningful, educational, and unforgettable.

5. Visit Queen Emma’s Summer Palace

Just five miles from Waikīkī along the scenic Pali Highway is Queen Emma’s Summer Palace, a peaceful retreat once used by Queen Emma and her family to escape the summer heat of Honolulu.

Highlights include:

• Greek Revival architecture (rare in Hawaiʻi!)
• Docent-led tours by the Daughters of Hawaiʻi
• Native Hawaiian plants and gardens spread across 2 acres
• Historical artifacts from Hawaiʻi’s royal family

It’s a charming stop that provides a quieter, more intimate look into royal Hawaiian life.

6. National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific (Punchbowl)

The Punchbowl Crater is home to one of the most solemn and meaningful sites in Hawaiʻi.

This National Memorial honors:

• Service members lost during the attack on Pearl Harbor
• U.S. military personnel from various wars
• The sacrifices of the American Armed Forces

Visitors can walk through the memorial while enjoying sweeping panoramic views of Honolulu.
A powerful and reflective stop during your Oʻahu trip.

7. Experience the Beauty of Waimea Valley Waterfall 

Waimea Valley, located on Oʻahu’s historic North Shore, is one of the island’s most beautiful and culturally significant areas. It’s not just a waterfall — it’s a living Hawaiian cultural site with over 5,000 botanical species, ancient Hawaiian archaeological sites, and a stunning 45-foot waterfall you can swim in.

Why visit Waimea Valley?

• A family-friendly, paved walking path (easy for all ages)
• Hundreds of tropical flowers & native plants
• Rare birds and wildlife
• Hawaiian cultural demonstrations
• A refreshing swim at Waimea Falls
• North Shore scenery that feels like a natural sanctuary

Waimea was once home to Hawaiian royalty and priests, making it one of the most important ahupuaʻa (land divisions) in ancient Hawaiʻi.

Want to explore Waimea Valley with transportation, breakfast, lunch, and a guide included?

Check out the Nature and You: Waimea Valley Waterfall Hike Tour
a relaxing North Shore day trip featuring local food, cultural insight, and a refreshing waterfall swim.
It’s one of the easiest and most enjoyable nature experiences for Oʻahu visitors.

8. Explore the Byodo-In Temple

Located in the lush Valley of the Temples beneath the towering Koʻolau Mountains, the Byodo-In Temple is one of Oʻahu’s most peaceful attractions.

Features include:

• A replica of the 950-year-old Kyoto temple
• A serene pond filled with koi
• Japanese gardens designed by renowned landscaper Kiichi Toemon Sano
• An 18-foot gold-leaf Buddha

It’s a perfect stop for photography, meditation, or a calm escape from Waikīkī’s busy energy.

9. U.S. Army Museum of Hawaiʻi

Located in the heart of Waikīkī, this museum is housed inside a 1911 coastal defense battery.
You’ll find exhibits showcasing:

• Hawaiʻi’s military history
• Weapons, maps, and artifacts
• Stories from the Pacific War and Vietnam War
• Rotating seasonal exhibits

It’s free to visit, making it a great educational stop during a day in Waikīkī.

10. Explore the Whole Island With a Circle Island Tour

Want to see waterfalls, beaches, food spots, temples, lookouts, and local history—all in one day?

A Circle Island Tour is the perfect way to experience Oʻahu efficiently.

The Island and You tour includes:

• Cultural stories from expert guides
• Local-style breakfast and lunch
• Stops at scenic beaches and lookouts
• History-rich locations like Byodo-In, Dole Plantation, and more

If you want to “Eat Local, Feel Local,” this is the tour that brings the best of Oʻahu together.

Learn more or book here: Island and You – Circle Island Tour

Oʻahu is more than famous beaches—it’s nature, history, culture, tradition, and adventure all in one place.
Whether you’re here for dolphins, hikes, temples, or historic landmarks, the island has endless ways to experience the true spirit of Hawaiʻi.

If you have more time, explore other islands too—but if you can visit only one, Oʻahu offers the perfect Hawaiʻi experience.

Aloha, and enjoy your journey through Oʻahu!

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We are not just about fireworks. We’ve got a cool bartender on board to make your favorite drinks. And guess what! A professional DJ will keep the party vibe going strong the whole time! There’s more! To make sure you have a stress-free night, we are offering complimentary rides from Waikiki to the harbor with our Trolley Bus! No need to worry about the rides and parking spots – just focus on having a blast!

As we sail into 2024, we are not just watching the date changes. We are making memories that will stick with us forever. With the beautiful fireworks, clinking glasses, and all the party people, this cruise is the perfect way to start the new year. So, bring your friends and family, and let’s make this journey full of happiness, laughter, and the promise of a great year ahead. Happy Holidays and Happy New Year!

To make a reservation, please visit andyoucreations.com/ocean or call our office at (808)696-4414 during business hours, which are 8am to 6pm.

The post 2024 New Year’s Countdown Cruise Experience with Ocean and You appeared first on And You Creations || アンドユークリエーションズ.

BeachWalk Café is the perfect spot to get you sweet tooth fill while also enjoying a very tasty breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Open from 8:00am until 11:00PM it’s a great place to swing by anytime of the day! Looking for one of the best spots to enjoy a variety of food? Then you’ve come to the right restaurant! This place is known for their locally made Gelato and colorful Macaroons! The rest of the menu is full of soups, sandwiches, smoothies, acai bowls and more. The location is also directly north of Fort DeRussy beach park, so if you’ve been hanging out at the beach all day and looking for a place to stop and pick up food then head across the street to Beach Walk! 

The restaurant is beautiful inside and out. Very colorful decorations line the walls on the inside and you can sit out on the beautiful outside patio area to enjoy your food.

I ordered the chicken pesto panini with a side of the clam chowder and was so pleased with the food. The panini was very flavorful and everything you could ask for from a panini. A very filling meal!

We also ordered a variety of macaroons to go! How can you not buy these beautiful looking desserts? Buy 12 and your 13th is free!

Just finished a dolphin tour with us? Or staying in downtown Waikiki? Looking where to get your fill of tasty sandwiches and sweets? Walk on over to the BeachWalk Café!

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Island Vintage Coffee is an organic and natural coffee and restaurant. Open from 6am – 11pm and just a few minutes walk from most every hotel in Waikiki. They have a wide variety of foods and drink on their menu including poke bowls, rice plates, salads, fruit plates, breakfast plates, sandwiches, and much much more. Their coffee is a fresh Hawaiian made coffee and they even have a small Sky Kombucha bar located inside.

Apart from the food and coffee you can walk around the inside of the shop and take a look at a slew of items they have for sale; including other food items, hydro flasks, soaps, lotions, sunscreen, and so much more!

The shop has a handful of comfortable tables just outside. So, enjoy your meal out in the sunshine!

I ordered the spicy ahi poke bowl, but the rest of the food did look amazing! Poke is a very traditional and popular meal here on the islands. Poke is blocks or slices of fresh seafood, served raw, but with plenty of other ingredient to enhance the flavor. Now, there are so many places that sell Poke so what made this place stand out? The amount of flavor that this poke bowl had to offer. Rarely do you find a shop that includes avocado and spicy aioli in the bowl. Also, some fresh chopped seaweed threw in even more of a “sea” flavor in the bowl.

Staying in a hotel in downtown Waikiki? Looking for a nice relaxing place to enjoy good food and drink? Well walk down to the Island Vintage shop and get your fill!

https://www.islandvintagecoffee.com/

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1. “HEA” Hawaii Ecotourism Association Certification

Our Mission Statement is: “To protect ‘Hawaii’s unique natural environment and host culture through the promotion of responsible travel and educational programs relating to sustainable tourism for residents, businesses and visitors.”

A. Advise guests to use coral/reef safe sunscreen and to apply sunscreen 15-20 min. before entering the water.

B. Carry a recycle container on the vessel to promote recycling and pick up trash and plastic from the ocean.

C. Harmful chemicals, including clorox bleach, are banned from our vessel.

D. Practice and promote Hawaiian culture and traditions through our Hula dance, Ukulele and ‘Oli and teachings.

2. Multi-language Video

Customer safety and dolphin education video we show our guests on the bus ride from Waikiki to Waianae boat Harbor.

Languages Include: English, Japanese, Korean, Chinese.

3. Dolphin Education

Before entering the water, we educate our guests on proper etiquette when swimming with wild dolphins.

4. Passive Approach with Dolphins

Let the dolphins swim to us! Do not chase after them!

5. Respect The Dolphins in Their Natural Habitat

In the water, gather guests in a tight group and wait for the dolphins to approach us. Discourage chasing, diving and splashing when near the dolphins.

6. Curious Creatures

When we maintain a passive non-aggressive approach, in many instances the spinner dolphins will come back numerous times, circling us in the water.

7. Dolphin Behavior

Be conscious of dolphins’ behavior when they are resting or moving. Be respectful and do not try to alter their movements, even if they choose to avoid us.

8. Highly Sensitive Creatures

They are highly sensitive to loud noise or aggressive movement. Always keep in mind that we are entering their home. To keep a healthy relationship with the dolphins, keep quite and avoid chasing. Result in a passive, non-threatening interaction between dolphins and humans.

9. Marine Protectors and Ambassadors

We encounter many uneducated shore swimmers in the shallow bays. We do what we can to protect dolphins and turtles against their aggressive behavior.

10. Captains’ Etiquette

All of the dolphin boat captains from the Leeward Coast of Oahu communicate through VHF radio. In a professional manner, we enter the area one boat at a time to avoid overcrowding the dolphin pods.

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Hi Mieko, thanks for chatting today! So what inspired you to work with Dolphins?

I’ve always loved the ocean and ocean creatures. When I found out about the opportunity to work with the Dolphins and You company, it felt like a perfect job. I could be near the water and see guests enjoying it, too.

That’s great! In your opinion, what makes Dolphins magical creatures?

Dolphins are smart, playful, and powerful. I think they have something magical power that we don’t know about. They make me feel natural and relaxed.

Wow. What’s the highlight of the tour for you?

Definitely, it’s the moment when I jumped into the ocean! When I was dropped into the magnificent sea, I feel one’s existence on earth. We can’t go against the power of nature.  And, it is an encounter with Dolphins. I don’t know what to say, but you will also feel something from them.

What is one place that someone should see while they’re visiting Hawaii?

One of my favorite spot is Kailua. Kailua is a beautiful beach town located on Oahu’s windward coast, about 30 minutes from Waikiki. Kite surfers from around the world come here to kite surf. You can enjoy watching their professional skills and even take some lessons to learn on your own!

We know you love the water, so what is your favorite thing to do when you’re not swimming with Dolphins?

I enjoy sailing with my husband and friends in our boat. The ocean teaches me many things. Sometimes the Dolphins chase us! The sea breeze makes me refreshed.

Sounds amazing! How about a bit of advice for visitors to Hawaii and Oahu.

Don’t plan, don’t think too much! You want to be here to relax. And bring water wherever you go!

For sure! Mieko, what is your favorite place to eat and drink in Oahu?

My recommended restaurant is the Chart House. You have a harbor view to watch the sunset into the ocean. It’s gorgeous and romantic. They also have live Hawaiian contemporary music, and the food is good, too!

I’m hungry already! Mieko, thanks again and we’ll see you on the Dolphin tour!

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Susumu, it looks like you’re always having so much fun on the tour. Tell us what inspired you to work with Dolphins.

To me Dolphins are the most amazing creatures I this planet! Just looking at them from the boat makes me feel relaxed, peaceful. Inside the water it’s just like they have the power to purify our souls. Hopefully everyone can try swimming with Dolphins in Hawaii at least once in their life. It is amazing!

Definitely! So what makes Dolphins magical creatures in your opinion?

The fact that I believe they don’t belong to this planet. They are such special creatures. We are so lucky to get to spend time with them in the water every day.

We are very lucky. What is the highlight of the tour for you?

Getting together with the Dolphins is the most amazing thing. But the fact that because of them and their special energy, there are people who didn’t know each other before the tour and at the end, we all become friends in a huge Ohana!

What is one place that someone should see while they’re visiting Hawaii?

Mauna Kea on the Big Island. It’s a dormant volcano that is the highest point in the state of Hawaii. It’s even taller than Mount Everest. There’s lots of hiking trails that you can do when you visit. It’s a great way to see some of the nature that we have here in Hawaii.

Wow! Sounds impressive. So when you’re not swimming with Dolphins, what do you do in your free time?

I like to stay at home with my family. I also like to get out and go for a bike ride. I also like to spend some time in Waimanalo, inside the Bellows. This is on the eastern side of Oahu and it’s a beautiful place to see.

Cool! And what advice would you give to people coming to Hawaii for the first time?

Be respectful. That means to be respectful to the people, their culture, and to Nature. We have an amazing Hawaiian culture and lots of beautiful nature and we want to share it with you!

Great advice, Susumu. Okay, last question…what are some of your favorite places to grab a bite to eat?

I like to eat, so I have a lot of favorites. For Italian food, try Arancino di Mare which has a great antipasto misto. Great if you like seafood. And Bernini is good too and uses lots of local ingredients. For a good steak, check out Signature at Ala Moana Hotel. The food is amazing and so is the view from the top of the hotel. And if you like Japanese, my favorites are Inaba, Rinka, and Wasabi. You really can’t go wrong at any of them. They’re all delicious!

Okay, now I’m starving Susumu! Thanks for talking with us today and we’ll see you out there swimming with Dolphins in Hawaii on the next tour!

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We’re back for another installment of Meet the Team Thursday, and this week we’re talking to one of our sales team, Toshi. Maybe you’ve had a chance to talk with him when booking your Dolphin tour for your upcoming Hawaii vacation. Let’s get to know this cool dude!

So Toshi, tell us what inspired you to work with Dolphins and You?

Ha – me, too! In your opinion, what makes Dolphins magical creatures?

I agree. So what’s the highlight of the tour for you?

Speaking of visits, what is one place that someone should see while they’re visiting Hawaii?

Sounds like a great day activity! Tell us Toshi, what is your favorite thing to do when you’re not swimming with Dolphins?

Yum, sounds delicious! How about a bit of advice for visitors to Hawaii and Oahu.

Cool! Ok, last question, what is your favorite place to eat in Oahu?

I need that now! Thanks for chatting with us Toshi and we’ll see you in Oahu with Dolphins and You!

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Whales and You

The And You Creations tour “Whales and You” is more than just a whale watching tour. On top of seeing wild humpback whales in paradise, you will also enjoy live hula performance, a Hawaiian chant and a buffet lunch! To celebrate its first year, tickets are $20 off.

Pride of Maui, Maui

Maui is known for some of the best whale watching in the world. Pride of Maui has an amazing glass bottom boat where you can see all of the amazing marine life float by below. And they make a strong commitment to customer service with their guarantee. Whales will be sighted, or your next whale watch tour aboard the Pride of Maui will be complimentary!

Capt. Andy’s, Kauai

Voted the Best of Kauai for whale watching boat tours, Capt. Andy’s offers an opportunity to view these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat. Their experienced captains respect the Hawaii laws that require boats to stay 100 yards away from these endangered species, while providing some education about these sea mammals while you enjoy the day. Capt Andy’s has  been exploring the Na Pali and Kauai waters since 1980 and it shows!

Captain Dan McSweeney’s Whale Watching Adventures, Big Island

Another place to see whales in Hawaii is this top rated spot and the name says it all! Located near Honokohau Harbor on the Big Island, guests are treated to a whale watching adventure they’ll never forget. Guests highlight the crew’s concern and care for first-timers and Captain Dan’s dedication to ecological preservation. If you want to see some whales and learn from a fun crew, this is your tour!

Hopefully you’ll enjoy some whale watching on your winter trip to Hawaii and see these beauties in all their magnificent glory!

See whales in the wild on a Whales and You Tour!

Join an Whales and You tour to see wild humpback whales in Oahu.

Learn More

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Hawaiian Rainbow Music

If you want to surround yourself with the Hawaiian vibe, then look no further than music app Hawaiian Rainbow. It’s non-commercial, free and based in Hawaii. This local app plays mostly traditional Hawaiian music, where you’ll hear sounds and tunes with the Hawaiian language. There’s plenty of chanting, music for hula dancing, storytelling, and segments to share geneaology and mythology from the islands. You’ll definitely want to keep playing this one long after your vacation is over!

Oahu Revealed

This app is a spin-off of the super-popular guidebook that is now in its 5th edition. One of the top rated features of this app is a detailed GPS map that’s available offline when you don’t have an internet connection. The super geo-accurate app helps find off-the-beaten path adventures in Oahu, or allows you save a hot, new restaurant to your favorites. This top-rated app will cost you $7.99, but users say it’s worth it!

Surf Report

Besides just being an awesome app for those who want to check out surf spots in Oahu, this app will give you up to the minute weather conditions that most weather apps can’t even provide! You’ll get access to surf heights, weather changes, wind info, and maps to some of the best beaches on the islands. Powered by Surfline and Oakley, this app is a must have for catching those breaks and taking advantage of some of the world’s best surf destinations.

KHON2 News

While we don’t want you sitting around watching the news all day, the KHON 2 app provides local news for the Honolulu area and can sometimes be very useful. This app is free and is super handy for people visiting Hawaii and don’t want to get caught in a traffic jam on their way to a secluded beach, or want to stay up-to-date on the latest happenings, promotions, and exciting stuff around town.

What Chefs Eat

If you have a foodie in the group, definitely download this local Hawaiian app. There’s always Yelp, but to get a more authentic review and local advice, this app is the best choice! Locals and tourists rate this app as a favorite since you’re getting the inside scoop from the city’s top chefs, sommeliers, mixologists, and industry insiders. For some of the best places to eat according to locals, definitely check out this app!

So make sure you load up your smartphone or tablet with these handy tools before you jet to Hawaii. And don’t forget your charger!

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