Anyone else dreaming of a tropical vacation? Somewhere with the sound of waves and sand between toes and a fruity drink in a glass with a straw? One of my favorite tropical destinations is Hawai’i and now that Southwest flies to the Islands it’s even easier (and less expensive) to plan a trip. I’ve been to Oahu many times over the years and I’ve discovered lots of hidden gems among the major tourist spots. I know some people travel to Oahu and never leave Waikiki, but I’m telling you it’s a shame! So what to do on Oahu? Here are five spots away from the crowded beaches of Waikiki that you don’t want to miss.

what to do on Oahu

Diamond Head State Monument

You might not think you want to hike while on vacation. Trust me when I say that hiking Diamond Head is an experience you don’t want to miss! Don’t bother making the drive to Diamond Head if you’re not going to hike to the top because to truly appreciate this dormant volcano you have to make it to the top. It gets hot and humid fast so plan your hike for early in the day. Make your experience extra rewarding by packing some fruit and muffins for a picnic breakfast with impressive views of Honolulu while you’re perched on the rim of a volcano. Entrance fees are $5 per vehicle or $1 for walk-ins and well worth it.

Polynesian Cultural Center

A cultural experience might not be high on your list of must-dos while on vacation. Maybe you’d prefer to spend your time sitting poolside. But keep in mind you can do that anywhere. Where else can you roam 42 beautiful acres and enjoy demonstrations, food, and performers from six different Pacific cultures and end your day with a nighttime show like no other? Your whole family can spend the day at the Polynesian Cultural Center and never get bored. Be sure to check their website for special deals as they’re usually offering a discount or free return tickets.

Dole Plantation

Every time someone says that you can only get Dole Whip at a Disney park I laugh. First of all, that’s not true since you can easily make it at home! Secondly, obviously they’ve never experienced a trip to the Dole Plantation on Oahu. Located in the center of Oahu unless you’re making a trip to the North Shore or circling the Island it can be easy to miss. I highly suggest a visit though! Whether you’re going for a full tour, to tackle the World’s Largest Maze, or sample some of the delicious food. It’s definitely a must-do for us anytime we go, and we can never leave without a pineapple split.

Pearl Harbor National Memorial

This is the closest site to Honolulu and Waikiki that I’m going to be mentioning. Pearl Harbor National Memorial is well-known and well-visited so be sure to get there early so you can guarantee a ride over to the USS Arizona Memorial. Tickets are free but you are given a specified time (think of it like a Fast Pass). This is another Oahu attraction that might not seem high on the list of things you want to do, but it’s definitely something you don’t want to miss. Go early in the day and save the beach for the afernoon.

Waimea Valley

Like the Dole Plantation Waimea Valley is another place that’s a bit out of the way and you might miss. But if you’re taking a drive up to the North Shore you should really include it in your itinerary. It’s a beautiful place to wander through botanical gardens and historical sites, and the pathway is even wheelchair and stroller friendly! Plus, where else can you safely swim under a waterfall under the watchful eye of a lifeguard? Tickets start at $6 and children under the age of 4 are free.

There are so many incredible places to see on Oahu and these five barely even scratch the surface! Have you been to Oahu? What was your favorite thing there?