The Real Magic Is Happening Out on the Water
The ocean here isn’t gray or cold. It’s blue—sometimes electric. On many days, you can see straight through it.
Ask visitors why they came and you’ll hear the same thing over and over: “The water looks unreal.” “It’s so warm.” “You can actually see your feet.”
Whether it’s whale watching during migration season, snorkeling over reef systems, or boarding a sunset cruise as the sky turns orange, most activities here orbit one thing—the Pacific.
That said, the #1 thing people do once they’re out in the ocean… you can probably guess. And if you only have five days in Waikiki, do these things—and preferably in this order.
1. Turtle Canyon Snorkeling Adventure by Living Ocean Tours
Turtle Canyon is the most booked turtle tour in Oahu. Snorkeling is usually a top 3 activity… often #1.
About seven to eight out of every 10 visitors to Hawaii go snorkeling at some point during their trip.
When you see a tour with a 5-star rating from over 10,500 people, the first thing you think is, “Wait… can that be right?”
Statistically, it shouldn’t be possible—but Living Ocean Tours has broken the laws of math with a perfect 5-star rating.
Of course, with a rating no other tour can beat (because you can’t go any higher), this tour sells out several times a day.
On the day of the tour, you’ll head out on a double-deck boat along the Waikiki coastline and reach Turtle Canyon quickly.
On most trips, you’ll see turtles swimming through the reef or coming up for air near the boat. Around them, reef fish move constantly. On some days, dolphins pass through. Between December and April, humpback whales are also seen.
You’ll receive snorkeling equipment, and in-water guides will stay nearby throughout. Drinks, water, and light snacks are available on board.
Each tour runs for about 2 hours, with multiple departures every day. With prices starting at $79 per person, it becomes an easy decision.
2. North Shore Tour by The Surf Bus
The North Shore holds some of the most documented surf breaks on the planet.
Oahu gets around 5.1–5.5 million visitors per year. Out of those, about 2.9 million people visit the North Shore.
Wave size is a big part of it. You’re looking at 20–30 ft waves regularly in winter, with bigger sets during major swells.
That creates something important:
People don’t just go there to “be at the beach.”
They go to watch.
In fact, the North Shore hosts part of the Triple Crown of Surfing, one of the most important events in professional surfing.
3. Hollywood Movie Sites by Kualoa Ranch
Kualoa Ranch is known as “Hawaii’s Hollywood backlot.” Over the years, it has been used in 200+ movies and TV shows. That includes major titles like Jurassic Park, Jumanji, Godzilla, Kong: Skull Island, and Lost.
That level of exposure means this place has been seen by over 1 billion people worldwide through film and TV.
Their two most popular tours are the UTV Raptor Tour and the Hollywood Movie Sites Tour. And they’re being booked constantly. On booking platforms, you’ll see notes like “booked 100+ times last week” on a single tour listing.
4. Luau Dinner with Hawaiian Show by Queens Waikiki Luau
A luau is far more popular than people realize. Hawaii sees roughly 9–10 million visitors a year, and luaus are something people feel they have to do—almost a checklist item tied to the trip itself.
Part of the reason is obvious: it revolves around food.
For some people, food is not just part of the trip—it’s the reason for it. You’ll hear it all the time: “Where are we eating tonight?”
So when an activity puts food at the center, it immediately becomes more appealing. Queens Waikiki Luau does exactly that—but then adds more.
When you arrive, the evening builds in stages. Live music sets the tone. Hula dancers tell stories through movement. Then the fire knife performers take over, all while you enjoy traditional Hawaiian cuisine.
5. Friday Night Fireworks by Living Ocean Tours
Friday night fireworks in Hawaii—specifically in Waikiki—are a weekly show held at the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort. Every Friday evening, just after sunset, fireworks are launched right from the lagoon area.
Watching the fireworks from the beach is one thing. But watching them from the water changes it completely.
Out on Living Ocean’s boat, you’re not dealing with crowds, noise, or people moving around trying to get a better view. The boat sits just offshore, facing the lagoon at Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort, and when the fireworks start, there’s nothing in front of you—just open water and the sky.
The fireworks rise higher. The reflections stretch across the ocean instead of breaking against the shoreline. Ultimately, you’re not looking toward the show—you’re sitting inside it.
What to do in Oahu Island FAQs
What are the top things to do in Honolulu Waikiki for first-time visitors?
For first-timers, the top things to do in Waikiki usually include walking Waikiki Beach, hiking Diamond Head, taking a snorkeling cruise, and exploring local shops and restaurants along Kalakaua Avenue.
Are there free things to do in Honolulu Waikiki?
Yes. Some of the best things to do in Honolulu Waikiki cost nothing at all. You can relax on Waikiki Beach, watch the sunset over the Pacific, hike Diamond Head (small entry fee for non-residents), or explore Kuhio Beach and its evening hula shows.
What are the best evening activities in Waikiki?
Popular evening things to do in Waikiki include sunset catamaran cruises, beachfront dining, live music along the strip, and the Friday night fireworks display.
Do you need a car for things to do in Waikiki?
Not necessarily. Many things to do in Waikiki are within walking distance of major hotels. For activities outside the immediate area—like North Shore tours or Pearl Harbor—shuttles are widely available.
What outdoor activities are popular in Waikiki?
Outdoor things to do in Honolulu Waikiki include surfing lessons, snorkeling tours, stand-up paddleboarding, hiking Diamond Head, and boat cruises along the coastline.
