Aussies who have been to Oahu..should I cancel my trip?

Question

I bought some discount tickets to Honolulu for my partner and I but I'm having second thoughts. We will be only on one island because a 10 hour Jetstar flight from Australia to Honolulu is all I can bear. Is 8 days too much time on Oahu? On holidays, we usually like to walk a lot, catch local transport and maybe do a bus day-tour but it sounds like we will have to hire a car in order to get around the island. Seeing as we are not interested in Pearl Harbour/ War Tourism, should I change our holiday destination to somewhere a bit closer (and a bit cheaper) like Indonesia or Thailand instead? Grateful to hear what you think..

Answer

It sounds like you're weighing a big decision about your trip to Oahu, so let me break it down for you and offer some considerations to help you decide whether to keep or change your plans.

8 Days on Oahu: While 8 days may feel like a long time on one island, Oahu has a lot to offer beyond the typical tourist attractions like Pearl Harbor and Waikiki. It’s a dynamic island with a range of experiences that suit different interests, especially for active travelers like yourselves who enjoy walking and local transport. If you're okay with a slower pace and are open to exploring more off-the-beaten-path areas, there’s plenty to do:

Hiking: Oahu offers some of the best hiking trails in Hawaii, like Diamond Head, Koko Head, and the Makapu'u Lighthouse trail. These are all easily accessible from Honolulu, and each provides stunning views of the island's landscapes.
Beaches: Beyond Waikiki, there are many beautiful beaches to explore on Oahu. Some great options for walking, swimming, and relaxing include Kailua Beach, Lanikai Beach, and the North Shore’s famous Sunset Beach.
Local Culture and Towns: Spend time exploring Honolulu’s Chinatown, the Byodo-In Temple in the Valley of the Temples, or the Kualoa Ranch. The latter is a fantastic place for a day tour, offering nature walks, horseback riding, and even movie set tours. You could easily spend a day exploring the local markets, cafes, and shops that give you a taste of the island’s laid-back vibe.

Transportation: You are correct that Oahu’s public transport is limited compared to other major cities, but it’s definitely possible to get around without a car. The TheBus system is affordable and covers a lot of the island, especially popular areas like Waikiki, Honolulu, and the North Shore. There are also Uber and Lyft options, though for some remote spots, having a rental car would make things easier. If you're looking for a more flexible option, consider renting a car for just a few days to explore areas that are a bit harder to access by public transport, like the North Shore or the East Coast.

Is Oahu Right for You? If you and your partner enjoy walking and getting around on public transport, Oahu offers a lot to explore, and 8 days doesn’t have to feel too long if you’re willing to slow down and enjoy the local vibe. While Oahu does have its share of "touristy" spots, you can easily avoid them by focusing on outdoor activities and local experiences. There’s also a wide range of cultural experiences to enjoy, from local food trucks to hula performances and festivals (depending on when you’re visiting).

Comparing to Other Destinations: While Oahu may be more expensive than places like Thailand or Indonesia, it also offers a completely different experience—especially if you're looking for a mix of nature, hiking, and cultural exploration. However, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly destination and a shorter flight, then Southeast Asia might be a great alternative. Places like Bali, Phuket, or Koh Samui offer beautiful beaches, rich culture, and great food, often at a lower cost, and flights are shorter from Australia. But if you’re set on Hawaii, Oahu offers plenty of options beyond the tourist hotspots.

Recommendation: Based on your interests, Oahu can definitely be worth the 8-day visit if you focus on exploring the natural beauty and local culture, and embrace the slower pace of island life. If you’re feeling hesitant about the cost and long flight, and you’re really drawn to Southeast Asia, then switching your plans could be a good alternative. But if you’ve been wanting to experience Hawaii and are okay with renting a car for a couple of days to explore the island more fully, I think Oahu can still offer a fulfilling trip for the two of you.