The Perfect 7-Day Oahu Itinerary for an Unforgettable Trip

Looking for an amazing 7-day Oahu itinerary? I am here to help! In this article, I have included all the major attractions and plenty of beach time that you can see in a 7-day trip to the spectacular Hawaiian island.

I’ve lived in Maui for five years and love island-hopping to Oahu whenever possible so you can trust this post comes from my personal authentic experience. 

Oahu, the most populated island in the Hawaiian archipelago, has so much to offer. Deciding what to do, where to stay, and how to make the most of your time can be overwhelming. 

That’s why I am here to help. I organized this itinerary by area, so you’ll cut down on driving time and increase your time having fun!

Best 7-Day Oahu Itinerary

Oahu is one of the most visited Hawaiian islands for a reason! Check out the ultimate Oahu itinerary: 7 days jam-packed with adventure, sunshine, and fun.

 This small island has many stunning beaches, hiking trails, fantastic weather, and delicious food. The state capital of Honolulu is on Oahu, making this the perfect island for anyone wanting the vibrancy of a big city mixed with laid-back beach town vibes.

In this itinerary, you’ll spend a few days in Waikiki, the downtown area of Honolulu, and a few days on the North Shore. 

It’s impossible to get bored on Oahu— let’s get into it. 

☀️ Day 1: Oahu Arrival (Waikiki)

Since Oahu is an island, there are only two main ways to get there. One is on a cruise ship, and the other is by plane. 

A Hawaiian cruise can be a fun way to visit the islands, but you must fly in for this itinerary to work. 

You’ll be flying from the West Coast of the Mainland USA for at least 5 hours. Of course, total flight time depends entirely on where you start.

This first day is a perfect chance to soak up some sunshine by walking around and getting the lay of the land. 

✔️ Hotel Check-in

Even if you arrive before your hotel’s check-in time, it’s always worth calling and asking if they have an early check-in option. 

Even if they don’t, they may be willing to store your bags so you can wander about freely.

Typically, check-in time is around 3 or 4 in the afternoon. 

✔️ Lunch at a Local Café 

Once you’ve dropped your bags off at your hotel, I’d recommend getting some delicious food in your system. Waikiki has loads of restaurants and shops to wander through. 

Some of my top lunch recommendations are Marugame Udon and Alo Cafe.

Marugame Udon is a casual Japanese restaurant where you can order the most delicious noodle soup. It’s super popular— I’ve never seen it without a line. However, the line moves fast, making the food delicious and affordable.

Alo Cafe is another great option if you’re in the mood for something lighter. It’s a cute little hole in the wall with delicious smoothies and acai bowls. 

There’s a limited amount of seating. If you go with this option, I’d grab the goods and then hit the beach to enjoy them!

✔️ Waikiki Beach Time

Because, of course, you must hit the beach on your first day in Hawaii! Waikiki Beach is one of the most famous beaches in the world.

It’s got soft, powdery sand, gorgeous waves, crystal clear water. What’s not to love? Plus, you’ll find plenty of space to stretch out, even with everyone else around. 

While it might be tempting to take a nap, I’d recommend staying awake to combat any jet lag. 

This beach has full amenities— lifeguards, picnic tables, restrooms and showers. 

✔️ Evening Stroll at Kalakaua Avenue

Right next to Waikiki Beach is the vibrant Kalakaua Avenue. Stroll along this iconic street and enjoy people-watching, street-side performers, or shopping! 

Kalakaua Avenue stretches throughout the Waikiki district and has many shops. You’ll find everything from high-end designer stores to one-of-a-kind boutiques.

My favorite part is always the street performers. You’ll hear lively music, watch dancers, and much more on any day. 

✔️ Sunset Dinner Cruise

There’s something about enjoying a sunset view from the water that feels celebratory— and what better to celebrate than the start of a fantastic vacation?

Oahu has a variety of sunset dinner cruise options. I’d recommend the Three Star Deluxe dinner cruise for fine dining with live entertainment. 

If you’re interested in something more casual, you could always opt for a cocktail cruise with pupus (appetizers). 

Sit on the ocean, enjoy the breeze, and see the sparkling lights of Waikiki from the water.

☀️ Day 2: Explore Honolulu

Now that you’ve gotten the lay of the land (and a good night of sleep), it’s time to explore all that Hawaii’s state capital offers. 

There are many historical sights and opportunities to learn all about the rich Hawaiian culture and history of the area.

You will need to make reservations for Pearl Harbor and ‘Iolani Palace, so make sure to plan ahead for this day.

✔️ Pearl Harbor & USS Arizona Memorial

A pivotal part of any Oahu trip is visiting Pearl Harbor & USS Arizona Memorial. Here, you’ll learn all about one of the most pivotal moments in US History. 

Hear first-hand accounts of people affected by the attack on Pearl Harbor and see why the US chose to enter into World War II.

Entry to the memorial is free, but you must make a reservation to attend the USS Arizona Memorial Program. Reservations cost $1 per ticket, and you can purchase those here. 

Programs run daily, every 15 minutes from 8:00 am to 3:30 pm. You’ll hop aboard a boat shuttle to Arizona, walk through the memorial, and then head back to the visitor center. 

You can also watch a park film about the memorial without a reservation. The film is aired in the park theaters at the 15 and 45-minute mark of each hour. As a bonus, the theaters are air-conditioned!

✔️ Lunch at a Hawaiian Restaurant

If your time at the memorial made you hungry, I have good news. There are loads of delicious restaurants around Pearl Harbor for any cuisine.

If you need help deciding, I’d recommend the Forty Nine Restaurant for some delicious local grinds (food). They have some fantastic saimin and garlic chicken.

This restaurant has delicious food and excellent service. It’s been open since 1947! Please stop by and see what makes it such a special place on the island. 

✔️ ‘Iolani Palace 

After lunch, I’d recommend checking out ‘Iolani Palace. It’s the only palace on American soil and is an incredible representation of all that makes Hawaii so wonderful. 

This living restoration is recognized as Hawaii’s spiritual and physical multicultural epicenter.

It was built in 1882 and was the last official royal residence until the overthrow of the monarchy in 1893. 

It was the first building with electricity in the state and had many other innovative technologies. Plus, the palace itself is opulent and gorgeous. 

This stop has a dress code, so I’d recommend doing it on the same day as Pearl Harbor. 

I recommend getting a reservation, especially if you visit during the busier months. 

The palace is closed on Sunday and Monday. Make reservations here. 

✔️ Explore the Historic Downtown

‘Iolani Palace is right in the middle of the historic downtown. Various sights are located within a three-mile radius of the palace, making it the perfect spot for a walking tour.

Check out the Kawaiaha’o church, built by the first missionaries to settle in Honolulu. The walls are made out of coral rock! It’s also the burial site of King William Lunalilo and his parents.

There’s also the King Kamehameha I statue, the Kamehameha V Post Office, the iconic Aloha Tower, and more.

✔️ Dinner and Nightlife at Chinatown 

To finish off the day of robust history, enjoy dinner and the vibrant nightlife at one of the oldest Chinatowns in the United States!

The area has a budding art scene. On the first Friday of each month, fun Art Walk evenings with galleries showcase contemporary Hawaiian art. 

Plus, some of Oahu’s best bars and nightlife spots are in Chinatown. It’s the perfect way to finish a brain-focused day and take advantage of the city.

☀️ Day 3: South Oahu

There’s so much to see near Honolulu. For day three, check out the surrounding areas and some of the most gorgeous vistas just a short drive (or hike) away.

Enjoy the unique mix of city and beach, and take advantage of the amazing outdoor hikes and activities close by.

✔️ Diamond Head Crater Hike

Diamond Head is an iconic crater and landmark. The backdrop to Waikiki Beach, it’s worth hiking up to the summit. 

The trail is short but has a lot of elevation. We’re talking 560 feet of elevation! It’s paved and has steep stairs at the end of the hike to get up to a bunker on the crater rim.

Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Honolulu and the Waianae Mountains. 

It takes approximately two hours to hike Diamond Head. You’ll definitely want to bring a hat and water. 

You need a reservation to enter the park, so make sure to plan ahead. 

✔️ Snorkeling at Hanauma Bay

A must-do while visiting Oahu, check out the gorgeous snorkeling at Hanauma Bay next! 

This marine sanctuary is located within a volcanic cone. It is a stunning beach with a fantastic reef to explore. 

The bay is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays and requires a reservation. There are only 300 parking spots, and they fill up fast, so I’d recommend getting there as early as possible so you have time to find a spot. 

It’s also worth noting that the bay is open from 6:45 am to 4:00 pm, and there’s no entry after 2 pm. 

If you’re more interested in Hanauma Bay than Diamond Head, let’s switch the order and do this one first. 

✔️ Lunch with a view in Koko Head Cafe

After such an active morning, you will indeed have worked up an appetite! Head over to Koko Head Cafe for top-notch food. 

This cafe was opened in 2014 by Chef Lee Anne Wong and Chef Kevin Hanney. It’s a community favorite specializing in locally sourced and creative brunch fare.

You know it’s good because there’s almost always a line out the front door! However, the line moves fast, and the food is delicious, making it well worth the wait. 

✔️ Halona Beach Cove

This gorgeous beach is called Eternity Beach— due to an infamous beach scene in a 1950s romance movie. 

It’s close to the Halona Blowhole and requires a short hike to the beach. 

The beach is technically off-limits, and the water and rocks can make it dangerous.

 I recommend checking it out from above if the surf is high. There aren’t any lifeguards, and the ocean can have a strong undertow. 

If the ocean is calm, it’s gorgeous to explore and check out. You can’t see the beach from the road, so it feels excluded and special. 

✔️ Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail

Once you’re done relaxing at Halona Beach Cove, head over to the Makapu’u Point Lighthouse trail. Less than a mile long, this hike offers a stunning payout for relatively little effort.

The path is wide and paved, making it an easy trail for all skill levels to traverse. 

It’s just a bit past the Hawaii Kai Golf Course on Makapu’u Lighthouse Road. It’s marked as the “Ka Iwi Scenic Shoreline” and is a popular trail. 

From the top, you’ll get to see Makapu’u Beach, the inside of Koko Crater, and offshore islands. 

This is a fantastic spot to watch for whales in the winter months!

✔️ Dinner

There are so many delicious places to eat Dinner after your busy day. I recommend checking out Pa’ia Fish Market. 

Hawaii is one of the best places to enjoy fresh fish, and Pa’ia Fish Market has some of the best dishes. 

With a location in Waikiki Oahu, it’s a convenient option close to most hotels. 

I particularly enjoy the fish tacos and the Ono burger. Plus, the affordable prices and large portion sizes are lovely.

☀️ Day 4: East Oahu (Windward)

The eastern shore is known as windward Oahu and has a quiet coastal neighborhood and amazing views of the Ko’olau Range.

There’s plenty to do on this side of the island— swim, hike, kayak, and snorkel to your heart’s content.

Enjoy the slower pace of life, away from the hustle and bustle of Honolulu. This coast is wetter meaning there’s more lush tropical greenery in the area. 

✔️ Sunrise at Lanikai Beach 

Lanikai Beach is considered one of the best beaches in the world. It’s truly stunning. 

Living in Maui for the past five years, I’ve gotten really spoiled regarding beaches. Yet, I haven’t experienced many as extraordinary as Lanikai.

It’s got amazingly soft and fluffy sand and the most gloriously clear, blue water. Sunrises from this beach are fantastic and worth the early morning wake-up call.

Parking for this beach is limited, and there aren’t any restrooms, so bring anything you need. 

Bring your snorkeling gear. The reef by this beach is vibrant and fun to explore. 

✔️ Lanikai Pillbox Hike 

Just a short walk away from Lanikai Beach is the Lanikai Pillbox Hike. It’s also known as the Kaiwa Ridge Trail and is incredibly picturesque and pleasant.

You’ll get views of the Mokulua Islands, Kailua Beach, Lanikai Beach, and the surrounding neighborhoods. 

It’s about 1.5 miles round trip, but you can quickly go to the first pillbox or two and turn around. 

I haven’t gone past that point, but you can hike for another hour along the ridge and end up at a residential neighborhood on A’alapapa Street.

✔️ Breakfast at Kailua

Once you’re done hiking, head into Kailua town for some of the best breakfast food you’ve ever had. 

There are so many fantastic breakfast spots in Kailua. Moke’s Bread and Breakfast is excellent. Try the Lilikoi pancakes for a delicious sweet treat. 

They also have at least eight different egg dishes if you want something more savory. Paired with freshly baked bread? Yum! 

Over Easy is another fantastic option. Here, you can try local Hawaii favorites with a twist. 

Try the Kalua Pig Hash with Okinawa potatoes or the Brunch Bowl with avocado, soft eggs, and more. 

✔️ Ho’omaluhia Botanical Gardens

Look no further than the gorgeous (and free) Ho’omaluhia Botanical Gardens for a peaceful respite.

Spanning 400 acres, this verdant garden is surrounded by the Ko’olau mountain range. You can easily spend anywhere from an hour to half a day here. 

There are 8 different tropical gardens with plant species from various regions and many nature trails. 

Keep your eyes peeled for tropical birds.

✔️ Relax at Kailua Beach

To finish the day, head over to Kailua Beach. This is a gorgeous spot for water sports. Feel like kayaking or stand-up paddle boarding?

You can rent equipment from various rental shops close to the beach.

It’s also a great spot to take a nap or swim. It’s shallow, so it’s an excellent place to go open ocean swimming. 

You can often spot sea turtles, dolphins, and marine life on the beach. 

✔️ Dinner

For dinner check out Mahaloha Burger. They have a few locations around Oahu, including one in Kailua. 

Their burgers are absolutely delicious, and they have some enjoyable fusion creations. Try out the Teri-Burger or the Chicken Katsu Burger. 

They’re open daily from 11:00 am to 8:00 pm (Except on Mondays when they close at 4:00 pm).

☀️ Day 5: Road trip to North Shore

No trip to Oahu is complete without a visit to the North Shore. This itinerary is built so that you’ll spend your last few days on the North Shore, but you can always do a day trip. 

It’s a 17-mile stretch of coastline with so many fun stops and things to see along the way. The North Shore is stunning. It’s a mecca for surfers and has stunning vistas. The ocean can be quite strong on this part of the island so– if in doubt, don’t go out! 

The whole area is full of rugged, natural beauty and is my favorite part of Oahu. 

✔️ Early Departure to North Shore

This area of Oahu is known for its professional surfing competitions, easygoing lifestyle, and excellent beaches to explore. 

To make the most of your time there (and to avoid rush hour traffic), I’d recommend getting an early start and aiming to hit the road around 7:00 or 7:30.

Getting to the north shore from Waikiki takes about 40 minutes to an hour. 

✔️ Breakfast On the Go

Depending on your hunger, I’d recommend stopping at a nearby ABC store (they’re all over Waikiki) and grabbing a quick breakfast for the drive to the North Shore.

Spam Musubi’s are among my favorite things to eat on the go. These small bundles of rice and spam wrapped in nori are delicious and easy to eat in the car. 

Don’t be turned off by the spam— it adds just the right amount of saltiness to the rice. You’ll know why it’s a local favorite with just one bite. 

✔️ Banzai Pipeline

Banzai Pipeline is one of the most iconic beaches in Oahu (debatably the entire world) and a must-do for a trip to the North Shore. 

The Pipeline isn’t very well marked, so you’ll want to keep your eyes peeled. Look for Sunset Elementary School, and then you’ll find a tiny car park on the other side of the road.

This surf reef break is known for its barreling waves. During the winter, professional surfers ride the massive swells. It’s an excellent spot to watch them shred.

The ocean is a lot calmer in the summer but can still be powerful.  

✔️ Lunch at North Shore Food Trucks 

As you’re exploring the North Shore, you’ll see plenty of food trucks to try. Romy’s Kahuku Prawn and Shrimp Inc. and Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck are iconic spots. 

KuaAina is another spot in Haleiwa Town with delicious burgers and homemade fries. 

There are so many options in the area that I’d recommend cruising until you’re hungry and then pulling over when you see something that sounds good. 

✔️ Check-in at North Shore Accommodation

After lunch, it’ll be close enough to check in so you can head to your North Shore accommodations and settle in. 

Take a nap or unpack before you head off on your next adventure.  Make sure to bring your cameras with you.

🛏 Recommended Stay: Turtle Bay Resort)

If you need help determining where to stay on the North Shore, I’d recommend Turtle Bay Resort. It’s a gorgeous resort in a convenient location with many landmarks nearby. 

There are also 6 restaurants and bars at the resort, 7 beaches within walking distance, helicopter tours, horseback rides, golf, a spa, bike rentals, tennis courts, and more, all on-site. 

✔️ Waimea Valley or Sunset Beach

Once you’ve settled into your new rooms, head to Waimea Valley or Sunset Beach to finish the day.

Waimea Valley is across the road from Waimea Beach. This location is rich in Hawaiian history and is nestled in a gorgeous botanical garden. 

With 1,875 acres and a 45-foot waterfall to explore, you’ll have plenty to see. This nonprofit organization works to steward Hawaiian spirituality and traditions.

 There are 6 significant cultural sites, and resident artisans share their Hawaiian history and craftsmanship knowledge. 

Sunset Beach is a gorgeous 2-mile beach. During the winter, watch big-wave surfers in action. 

Waves can be as big as 15 to 30 feet high in the winter, and it’s a great snorkeling spot in the summer. 

True to its name, this is a fantastic spot to watch the sunset. 

✔️ Dinner

With so many fantastic food trucks to try, you might opt for a casual dinner trying out another stop. 

I recommend Uncle Bo’s Haleiwa Pupu Bar and Grill if you want a sit-down dinner somewhere. 

It’s got a 5-star menu, delicious cocktails and drinks, and a laidback vibe that is perfect for a fun evening. 

There’s indoor and outdoor seating, and it’s open until 9:00 pm most nights. Try the Boca Rota for some delicious cheesy goodness. 

☀️ Day 6: North Shore Adventure

For your entire day on the North Shore, you’ll get a good mix of delicious food, activity, and time to nap on the beach (a must for any adventure day). 

There’s plenty to do on this side of the island, so you’ll want to get an early start. Of course, you can always go back and hit up your favorite spots from yesterday if you want to revisit them!

✔️ Breakfast at Haleiwa Bowls

Start day 6 off strong with a delicious breakfast at Haleiwa Bowls. This cute kiosk serves acai bowls, smoothies, juices, and delicious cold brew coffee. 

The acai bowls at Haleiwa Bowls are almost unmatched on the island and come with loads of different toppings. 

Choose anything from spirulina, fresh fruits, granola, pollen, coconut flakes, and delicious local honey. 

They’re open from 7:30 am to 6:00 pm daily. It’s a refreshing and delightful way to start your last full day on the island. 

✔️ Snorkeling at Shark’s Cove

Once you’ve had a bite to eat, head over to Sharks Cove for a snorkeling adventure. This small rocky bay is a part of Pupukea Beach Park.

Don’t worry— there aren’t sharks, just lots of brilliantly colored tropical fish. Plus, the water is shallow and transparent, making it easy to see the fish up close. 

Wear reef-safe sunscreen when snorkeling so you don’t damage the coral reefs. 

This is a beautiful snorkeling spot, and unlike Hanauma Bay, it’s free. 

✔️ Shopping in Haleiwa

After you snorkel, head to the cute, historic town of Haleiwa. This art and cultural hub on the North Shore is full of cute boutique shops, local art galleries, and more.

If you’re looking for cute photo ops, check out the Colette Miller Wings painted on the side of Anahulu Shave Ice. 

Stop in one of the multiple surf shops for fun and unique souvenirs to take home for your friends, or buy yourself a new swimsuit to wear. 

✔️ Lunch at Kono’s North Shore

For the best lunch spot, look no further than Kono’s Northshore. This is a staple spot with delicious Hawaiian Fare. 

They close at 2:30 every day, so head over before it gets too late in the afternoon. 

Try their famous breakfast bombers if you’re ravenous after your active morning. 

These breakfast burritos are delicious— eggs, potatoes, cheese and meat. I’m literally drooling. 

✔️ Laniakea Beach

To spot a sea turtle, head over to Laniakea Beach. Most afternoons, you can find green Hawaiian sea turtles lounging on the beach, sunning, and sleeping in the heat. 

It’s also a great surf spot. The water is rocky, so it’s not the best swimming beach. 

Watch the turtles and take a nap on the sandy shore. Note that it’s a good idea to stay 6-10 feet away from these endangered creatures. 

There’s up to a $2,000 fine and/or 30 days in jail for harassing them. Sea turtles are stinky, so you don’t want to get too close. 

✔️ Matsumoto Shave Ice

Shave Ice is an iconic desert in Hawaii, and Matsumoto Shave Ice is the best place on the North Shore. 

Yep, you read that correctly— shave (not shaved) ice. The delicate ice melts in your mouth, and with over 30 flavors and various toppings, you could try something new every day for your entire trip. 

There’s often a line at this spot, but it moves quickly and is worth waiting for.

✔️ Luau Dinner: Experience a Traditional Evening with Music, Dance, and Cuisine

 For your last night in Hawaii, celebrate with a fun luau dinner. 

These evenings are a unique way to enjoy the Hawaiian islands’ history, rich culture, and delicious food and watch beautiful hula dances. 

There are many options for luau’s on the north shore. The Ali’i Luau Buffet at the Polynesian Cultural Center’s luau has many cultural activities and a scrumptious buffet spread. 

It finishes with an award-winning evening show called “Ha: Breath of Life.” 

Another option is the Paniolo Paina Luau put on by the Turtle Bay Resort. This is a perfect option if you’re staying there. 

This outdoor feast has a pony meet and greet, a fire knife show, and live entertainment. 

☀️ Day 7: Ka’ena Point and Departure

For your last day, take advantage of the sunshine and get in some good activity before you hop aboard your plane.

I’d recommend checking out of your hotel before heading out for any activities so you can take full advantage of your last few hours.

✔️ Breakfast & Beach Time

After getting some coffee and breakfast, head towards Ka’ena Point.  

You’ll drive to the end of Farrington Highway and park at the trailhead. This is one of the most scenic drives on Oahu, so have your camera ready. 

There are plenty of great beaches along the way, too, so if you decide to stop and soak up some sunshine before (or after), it’s easy. 

Kealia Beach is a gorgeous stretch of sand not too far from the trailhead. 

✔️ Ka’ena Point Trail (Optional Hiking)

To see a part of Oahu most tourists miss, check out the hike to the sacred Ka’ena Point. 

This hike has little shade, so make sure to bring sunscreen and plenty of water. A 5.6-mile out-and-back trail takes you through the state park and bird sanctuary.

You’ll end at the western tip of Oahu, where you can see the Waianae coast to the south, Mokuleia to the north, and the ocean stretching into the horizon.  

✔️ Last-Minute Shopping

As you head back towards Honolulu, you can add some last-minute shopping (time permitting). You can stop back in Haleiwa or return to Waikiki to check out the stores there.

This is a perfect time to get a delicious pineapple to take home with you, some chocolate-covered macadamia nuts, or other perishable goods.

✔️ Departure

Leave enough time to fill your rental car with gas and drop it off before heading to the airport. 

The Honolulu airport is small, and you don’t need more than an hour to get through security and to your gate. 

Of course, it’s always a good idea to be safe and to get there 2 hours early just in case something happens. 

Hopefully, your 7 days in Oahu will be full of beautiful memories!

How to Get Around Oahu, Hawaii

Now that we’ve talked about what to do during your 7 days in Oahu let’s talk about some other details to help make planning your trip even easier. 

🚘 Renting a Car

You might be wondering if you need to rent a car while you’re in Oahu. Unless you plan on spending your entire trip in Honolulu, I recommend renting a car. 

There’s so much to see and do on Oahu— the North Shore is one of my favorite parts of the island, and you need a car to visit it. 

Rental cars can get pricey. There’s a high demand for rental cars and a limited supply.

It’s a good idea to rent a car as soon as possible. 

Most rental cars have flexible cancellation policies, so you can always keep looking for a better deal while ensuring you have an option that works.

You can also rent a car for the days you plan to spend outside Honolulu. 

Driving in Oahu is easy, so you won’t need to worry about crazy road conditions.

🚍 Public Transportation

Oahu does have an excellent public transportation system named “The Bus.” It primarily services Honolulu but does have lines that go out to every major town on the island.

What you’ll be saving in money you’ll be paying for in time. Going from place to place on the bus takes significantly longer than in your car.

However, one-way fares are $2.75, and a day pass is only $5.50, a budget-friendly option.

Where to Stay in Oahu

Depending on where you stay on the island, you’ll have a very different experience. Check out the main differences below and my recommendation on where to stay in each area. 

👍🏼 Waikiki

Waikiki is a vibrant and fun place to stay. It runs beside the famous Waikiki Beach and is surrounded by many shopping and dining options.

 Waikiki is the perfect spot if you’re interested in being right in the middle of everything happening. There are tons of things to do right within walking distance. 

🛏 Recommended Stay: Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort

The Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort is a great place to stay in Waikiki. It’s on 22 acres by the most expansive stretch of the beach and has beautiful grounds.

Enjoy the five swimming pools, the best slides in Waikiki, daily cultural activities, and more.

Plus, there are two prime beachfront towers: the Ali’i and Rainbow. 

This is an excellent place for couples to stay, with almost everything you could imagine on-site. 

👍🏼 Downtown Honolulu (Ala Moana)

Ala Moana is an excellent option if you want to stay in the city but be in a slightly quieter (and cheaper) area. 

You’ll benefit from many dining and shopping options, but it’s less touristy and crowded than Waikiki. 

🛏 Recommended Stay: Ala Moana Hotel

The Ala Moana Hotel is in a fantastic location. Waikiki Beach is only a 5-minute drive away, and you’re located right between the Hawaii Convention Center and Ala Moana Shopping Center.

There are 2 restaurants on-site, and the rooms offer either ocean or city skyline views.

 Enjoy the swimming pool and fitness center when you’re not hanging out on the beach. A Starbucks is also in the lobby, perfect for early morning adventure days. 

👍🏼 East Side (Windward)

The windward side of the island is really laid back. 

There are many tiny beach towns, and the views are stunning. Look no further than the East Side for a laid-back vacation with a more authentic feel. 

🛏 Recommended Stay: Paradise Bay Resort

Paradise Bay Resort is located on Kaneohe Bay and has gorgeous views of the Ko’olau Mountain Range.

This charming hotel has an outdoor pool and a hot tub. As an added bonus, each room has a kitchen or kitchenette with a refrigerator, microwave, etc. 

Free yoga and meditation classes, a floating sun lounge, free snorkel, and kayak rentals are included in your stay.

Take advantage of the snorkeling equipment— Hawaii’s most significant barrier reef is located off of Kaneohe Bay.

👍🏼 West Side (Ko Olina)

The West side of the island needs to be significantly developed. If you want to stay on this side, you’ll have to stay in Ko Olina, which is touristy. 

This is a great spot to stay if you’re more interested in hanging out at a resort or want a quiet beach vacation.

🛏 Recommended Stay: Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina

The Four Seasons Resort is a luxurious place to stay. It has restaurants, bars, swimming pools, and lagoons with water sports.

There’s a quiet beach right by the resort, and each room has a private balcony, soaking tubs, and walk-in glass showers.

Located only 30 minutes from Pearl Harbor, it’s still central if you want to explore more of the island. 

👍🏼 North Shore

The North Shore is the birthplace of big wave surfing, and surf culture is evident here. There are many great beaches, unique towns, and delicious food trucks. 

🛏 Recommended Stay: Turtle Bay Resort

Turtle Bay is a really wonderful place to stay on the North Shore. It’s got 408 guest rooms and suites and 42 exclusive Ocean bungalows if you want a more private experience. 

Each of the 6 on-site restaurants offers farm-fresh dining, and there are a ton of activities available at the resort. 

There’s everything from pickleball to helicopter tours and horseback rides. 

It’s only a few minutes away from Haleiwa Town, Pipeline, and Waimea Bay.

When is the Best Time to Visit Oahu?

One of the best things about Hawaii is that the islands remain nice all year. That means it’s always an excellent time to visit Oahu. 

However, if you’re hoping to avoid the crowds (and snag some deals on accommodations), the “shoulder months” of April, May, September, and October are great times to visit. 

Suppose you’re more interested in snorkeling and seeing vibrant tropical fish. In that case, I recommend visiting during the summer when the surf on the north shore is small.

To see the yearly migration of humpback whales, head to Oahu during the winter months. 

Whale season tends to peak in February, so you’ll have the highest chance of seeing those marvelous creatures. 

What to Pack for an Oahu Hawaii Trip

Keep in mind what activities you’re planning on doing when you’re packing for your Oahu trip. 

📌 For 7 days in Oahu, I’d recommend bringing a couple of pairs of shorts, some tank tops, t-shirts, and one nice outfit for a fancy dinner or a Luau. 

Hawaii is casual, and you’ll find that true even in downtown Honolulu. 

📌 Comfortable walking shoes are a must, and hats are really helpful. It’s pretty sunny in Hawaii! I’d also bring sandals or flip-flops (called slippers in Hawaii)

📌 I’d also recommend bringing a daypack for your wallet, cell phone, snacks, and anything else you might want during a shorter trip around the island. 

📌 Charging cables, portable water bottles, and cameras are good ideas. Don’t forget bug-repellant or reef-safe sunscreen! 

📌 If you’re flying in from the mainland USA, you won’t need to bring your passport— a driver’s license will work just fine for flying to Hawaii. 

📌 Of course, you’ll need your passport to enter if you’re coming from an international location.

Frequently Asked Questions

Check out the top frequently asked questions about planning a 7-day trip to Oahu below. 

Wrapping Up: Oahu Itinerary 7 days

With so much to do in just 600 square miles, it can be hard to decide what to do! This Oahu itinerary, 7 days to explore all the island has to offer, is helpful for your planning.

This laid-back island is gorgeous and has something for every visitor to enjoy. Enjoy a fun-filled week with the best beaches, snorkeling spots, and water activities. 

Plus, Oahu is the only island on the Hawaiian archipelago with all the fun of city life and the laid-back beach vibes that make Hawaii so relaxing. 

Soak up all the rich culture and the sunshine, and take some Aloha home with you. 

I’ll bet you’ll want to come back again and again. I know I do!