Top Oahu Romantic/Outdoor/Family Activities
Are you looking for ideas to celebrate a romance, get out into the great outdoors or keep the whole family happy on Oahu Island? Check out my top suggestions for great activities, categorized by Romance, Outdoors and Family Travel listed below. First up, check out my Top Romantic Activities on Oahu.
1) Fireworks
Every Friday night, the Hilton Hawaiian Village puts on a spectacular, free fireworks show that lights up the skies over Waikiki. It’s sure to set the mood for romance. You can even book a catamaran fireworks cruise to really enjoy the display!
2) Sunset Dinner Cruise
A number of companies offer sunset dinner cruises on sleek, handsome vessels where you can dine, dance and sip champagne or tropical cocktails while enjoying live music under golden skies.
3) Windward Coast Drive
A leisurely drive up the Windward Coast is filled with tranquil spots that will bring couples closer together. Along the way, you can stop for a picnic at a beach park or wander through the serene grounds of Byodo-In-Temple.
4) City Lights
For magical sunset or evening views of Honolulu and Waikiki, we suggest that you take the drive up Puu Ohia (Mt. Tantalus) to see the lights twinkling below.
5) Farmers Markets
Oahu’s agricultural bounty as well as engaging local experiences await those who venture beyond the usual tourist sites to a farmer’s market. Here you can purchase or sample local treats like Manoa honey or Waialua chocolate. One of the most convenient to Waikiki is the Saturday morning market at Kapiolani Community College.
6) Honolulu Museum of Art
This museum offers changing and permanent exhibits of Western and Asian art in a gracious setting. Available through the museum is a guided tour of Shangri-La, the fabulous 1930s waterfront home and gardens that belonged to tobacco heiress Doris Duke. Art lovers will also enjoy the Hawaii State Art Museum, which emphasizes artworks created in Hawaii.
7) Royal Palaces
Honolulu also has two of the only three royal palaces in the U.S. (the third is Hulihee Palace on Hawaii Island): Iolani Palace, filled with splendid architectural detail and priceless artifacts that tell the story of the last days of the Hawaiian monarchy; and Queen Emma Summer Palace, a peaceful country retreat shaded by kukui trees and filled with intimate memorabilia from the royal family. Guided tours of these places will give you a fascinating, behind-the-scenes look at a vanished era.