When something is booked today… and tomorrow… and again next week—that’s proof people love it. Boats leaving full. Tours filling every 30–60 seconds during peak season. In Oahu, the top experiences get a lot of attention. They’re shared. They’re posted. And they’re recommended again and again.
The #1 Funnest Thing to Do in Hawaii?
You’ll hear it from first-time visitors and return travelers alike. People land, drop their bags, and start looking for the nearest reef. It’s the activity that shows up in photos, in stories, and in recommendations passed from friend to friend. When nine out of ten visitors say it’s first on their list, that’s worth paying attention to.
1. Snorkeling
What is the most popular activity everyone agrees on? Before the luaus. Before the helicopter rides. Before the shopping. People land, unpack, look at the water… and book a snorkel tour.
The most popular one? The Deluxe Waikiki Snorkeling & Wildlife Cruise by Living Ocean Tours.
This is a 2.5-hour cruise departing from Kewalo Basin, heading along the Waikiki coastline toward Diamond Head before anchoring at Rainbow Reef—a coral reef location away from the heavier tour traffic. You get about 90 minutes in the water. Snorkel gear is included. And if it’s your first time, the crew walks you through it step-by-step. You’re not left figuring it out alone.
In the water, you can expect clear visibility, colorful reef fish, and regular sightings of Hawaiian green sea turtles. Back on board, there’s a restroom, complimentary water and snacks, and for families—a waterslide, trampoline, and floating lily pad.
When you go snorkeling in Hawaii—and you will—go with the best. Ask anyone. Living Ocean Tours is on the lips of everyone.
2. Luau Dinner with Hawaiian Show
Food and entertainment bring people together. And, of course, that’s true in Hawaii, too. You can hike the ridges. You can swim with dolphins. But if you leave without sitting down at a real luau—without hearing the drums, seeing the fire, tasting the feast—you’ve skipped a core part of the islands.
One of the most popular is the Queens Waikiki Luau. It runs 2.5 hours, from 5:00 pm to 7:30 pm, and it’s open to all ages.
There are three seating tiers: $159 for front section seating with three Mai Tais or soft drinks, $139 for middle seating with two drinks, and $119 for back section seating with one drink. Every guest receives a shell lei on arrival. And everyone gets the same cultural welcome.
Of course, the evening isn’t just a show. Guests take part in hula lessons and hands-on activities before dinner. The meal is fresh, farm-to-table, and generous. Then the performances begin—traditional dances from across Polynesia, each telling a story through movement and rhythm. The finale? The fire knife dance. It’s the moment people lean forward. And the moment you hear, “That alone was worth it.”
3. Relax on Waikiki Beach
Snorkeling might take the top spot. And luaus might draw the biggest crowds after that. But Waikiki Beach is where people actually spend their time. It’s the place you end up every day—before a tour, after a tour, or instead of a tour.
Most importantly, you don’t need a ticket. You walk out of your hotel and the ocean is right there. The water is warm. You float. You talk to your friends or family. And you lose track of time.
Yes, book the activities. They’re worth it. But give yourself one full day with nothing planned. No schedule. Just Waikiki beach.
4. Hike Diamond Head
Diamond Head is the backdrop of Honolulu. It’s the shape that tells you you’re in Waikiki. And at some point, almost everyone looks up at it and thinks, “Should we climb that?”
Yes. You should.
The hike isn’t long, but it makes you work just enough to feel it. You move through switchbacks, pass old military bunkers, climb narrow stairways, and eventually step out onto a summit that opens the entire south shore in front of you. Hotels look smaller. The reef lines become clearer. The ocean stretches wider than it seems from the sand.
You don’t just see Waikiki. You understand it.
But this isn’t a casual walk you squeeze in without planning. Non-residents need a timed reservation. You book online, pick your slot, and pay the state fee before you go. Morning entries disappear quickly. That’s because people build their itineraries around this climb.
Fun Things to Do in Oahu Hawaii FAQs
What are the most fun things to do in Oahu Hawaii for first-time visitors?
The most fun things to do in Oahu Hawaii usually include snorkeling in Waikiki, hiking Diamond Head, visiting Pearl Harbor, and taking a sunset cruise along the coast.
What outdoor fun things to do in Oahu Hawaii are the most popular?
Outdoor activities rank highest. Snorkeling, surfing lessons, hiking coastal trails, and boat cruises consistently top booking charts when visitors search for fun things to do in Oahu Hawaii.
Are there fun things to do in Oahu Hawaii at night?
Yes. Evening options include sunset cruises, beachfront dining, live music, luaus, and Friday night fireworks in Waikiki.
What fun things to do in Oahu Hawaii are best for couples?
Couples often choose sunset sails, private snorkeling charters, hikes with ocean views, and upscale dining experiences along the Waikiki shoreline.
