What to do with only 1 afternoon in Oahu

Question

Friends will be landing in Oahu around 1pm (summer, if that matters). Flying out to Kauai next morning after visiting Pearl Harbor in the a.m. First time visitors, no car. I know some would suggest just taking the flight to Kauai that day, but they want to stay overnight on Oahu.

1) What would you recommend doing with one afternoon (weekday)? I've been to Oahu but it is not one of the islands I know best. My thoughts were surf/boat ride from Waikiki and drinks/dinner one of the hotels on the beach. Interested to hear pros/cons and other suggestions.

2) Would you recommend staying near the airport and taking an uber for afternoon activities, OR staying near Waikiki and taking an uber to pearl harbor the next day. I was leaning toward suggesting staying near the airport to be able to easily go back and get luggage after pearl harbor.

TIA

Answer

With only one afternoon in Oahu and a desire to make the most of it, you’ll want to choose an activity that offers a taste of the island’s beauty and culture without feeling rushed. Here are some recommendations for how to spend your limited time:

### 1) What to do with one afternoon in Oahu:

Surfing or Boat Ride from Waikiki: If you’re looking to experience the classic Waikiki vibe, a surfing lesson or a boat ride could be perfect. Waikiki Beach offers beginner-friendly surf lessons that last about 1-1.5 hours, giving you enough time to enjoy the iconic beach setting. Alternatively, you could take a boat ride, such as a catamaran sail around the coast. Many operators offer afternoon cruises with beautiful views of Diamond Head and the surrounding coastline. These activities provide a laid-back yet quintessential Oahu experience.
Relax at Waikiki Beach: If your friends are first-time visitors, they may simply want to relax and enjoy the world-famous Waikiki Beach. You can stroll along the beach, enjoy the ocean, or even just take in the view with a drink in hand at one of the beachfront hotels like the Royal Hawaiian or Moana Surfrider. This is a perfect way to unwind before a busy evening.
Visit the Honolulu Museum of Art or Iolani Palace: For a cultural experience, the Honolulu Museum of Art or Iolani Palace (the only royal palace in the United States) could be interesting options. Both are easily accessible from central Honolulu, and a visit to Iolani Palace offers a glimpse into Hawaii's royal history. The museum offers a fantastic collection of Hawaiian and Asian art, and it's a great way to explore Oahu’s heritage in a short amount of time.
Sunset at Tantalus Lookout: If your friends are into scenic views, you could take a quick trip up to Tantalus Lookout for panoramic views of Honolulu and Waikiki. It’s a short drive from Waikiki and offers a great opportunity for stunning photos at sunset. This is a quieter, more peaceful alternative to the beach, especially if you’re looking for a more tranquil end to your day.
Explore Ala Moana Center: For some shopping and dining in a relaxed, air-conditioned setting, the Ala Moana Center (one of the largest open-air malls in the world) is a great place to check out. It’s only a short drive from Waikiki and offers an array of shops, dining options, and the chance to pick up some Hawaiian souvenirs.

### 2) Where to stay: Near the Airport vs. Waikiki:

Stay near Waikiki: While staying near the airport might seem convenient for your flight to Kauai the next morning, staying in Waikiki will offer more options for a fun, memorable afternoon and evening. Waikiki is the heart of Oahu’s tourism, offering easy access to the beach, shopping, dining, and entertainment. You can take an Uber to Pearl Harbor the next day, which is about a 25-minute drive (depending on traffic), and it still leaves you with plenty of time to enjoy the island.
Stay near the Airport: If your priority is ease and convenience after your visit to Pearl Harbor, staying near the airport can save time on the morning of your departure. You’ll be closer to the airport, meaning less time spent traveling with luggage. However, keep in mind that you’ll be further from the main attractions of Waikiki, and you may miss out on the vibe and atmosphere of Oahu’s main tourist area. Staying near the airport will be quieter, but it might feel a bit more isolated in terms of dining and activities.

### Conclusion:

For your one afternoon on Oahu, I recommend staying in Waikiki for the evening to make the most of your time. Waikiki offers more options for fun, relaxation, and food, especially for first-time visitors. After enjoying the beach, a boat ride, or a sunset at Tantalus, you’ll find plenty of great places for dinner with a view. The next day, you can easily take an Uber to Pearl Harbor, and the 25-minute drive is manageable even with luggage.

While staying near the airport could be more convenient for a quick departure, the extra travel time from Waikiki the next morning isn’t overwhelming and will be worth it for the vibrant atmosphere and activities you can enjoy on your short stay. Have a great time on Oahu!

What to do with only 1 afternoon in Oahu

More Oahu Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions