Top Attractions on the Island of Oahu in Hawaii

The island of Oahu in Hawaii is packed with magnificent dining experiences, fabulous beaches, and some of the top attractions in the entire country. If you are visiting the Hawaiian Islands for the first time, it is wise to plan to spend at least one full week on the island of Oahu. As you will quickly learn, there is more to the island of Oahu than just Waikiki. Here are some of the top attractions on the island of Oahu in Hawaii.

If you are staying Waikiki during your holiday on the island of Oahu, you will want to rent a car or Jeep for at least some of your stay. That is because some of Oahu's top attractions are outside of the Honolulu/Waikiki area. The best example is the Polynesian Cultural Center. Created and maintained by the Mormon Church, the Polynesian Cultural Center is one of Hawaii's most popular attractions. In addition to hosting one of the best luaus in the state, the Polynesian Cultural Center also boasts a variety of re-creations of old Polynesian villages. The Polynesian Cultural Center is a tremendous experience for the entire family, with opportunities to both learn and have fun, including an IMAX theater and evening Polynesian show. Bus transportation is available. Call 808-293-3333 for further information, including operating hours and show times.

Another top Oahu attraction outside of the Waikiki area is the Hawaiian Waters Adventure Park on the leeward side of the island. Highly recommended for vacationers with children, Hawaiian Waters Adventure Park is an inexpensive way to spend a fun-filled day. The water park offers wave pools, whirlpools, water slides, even some calmer waters for a relaxing float. The one downside to the Hawaiian Waters Adventure Park is that it is often crowded on weekends, so plan on visiting during the week. You can receive park information such as seasonal operating hours and current admission prices by calling 808-674-9283.

Children (and their parents) will also enjoy Sea Life Park. Located on the easternmost tip of Oahu on Highway 72 near Waimanalo, Sea Life Park is generally less crowded than most Oahu attractions, which may be inviting for parents looking to shed some of the island crowds. Entrance prices are reasonable, though you may want to carry some extra cash for attractions such as snorkeling with stingrays and swimming with dolphins. Be sure to bring a camera - and it wouldn't hurt if it was waterproof. For park information, call 808-259-7933. Hours are typically from 9:30 to 5 p.m., seven days a week.

Enjoy the top attractions on the island of Oahu, but don't forget to reserve some time for Waikiki, especially the world-famous Waikiki Beach.