Believe it or not, Oahu can be an affordable place for vacationers. While some of the more thrilling, adventurous activities, require some cash to enjoy, there are hundreds of things to do on Oahu that are free. Most people don’t think of the simple, yet enjoyable activities to do. Of course, those who are visiting Oahu for the first time, may not know so many free things exist. Keep on reading for a list of some of the best, free activities on Oahu.
Enjoy live music
The island is teeming with live music for visitors and locals alike to enjoy. Ask around with the locals for live music options. A few include: the Royal Hawaiian Band that plays live twice a day, watch the entertainers and musicians at Aloha Tower Marketplace, visit Ala Moana Center for a variety of free entertainment.
Watch the sunset in style
At sunset make a trip to Kapahulu Pier for “Sunset on the Beach”. The pier and beach transform into an entertainment Mecca. Catch free movies, live music, entertainers, and food.
Fireworks and wildlife
The Hilton Hawaiian Village Resort and Spa shoot off fireworks every Friday night in honor of King Kalakaua. Also, the resort has their own penguins and flamingos that can be visited.
Take a walk
Check out the Waikiki Historic Trail for a tour of the history that lies inside the city. Stroll through china town, walk to Makapua lighthouse for an amazing view, climb the Aloha Tower, walk the reef to Goat Island and spot the colorful marine live in the pools. Walk up to Manoa Falls for a beautiful trek through the rainforest. Ask a local to point you towards Spitting Caves for a truly dramatic view of the ocean from atop volcanic cliffs. Feel the mist form the spitting caves and try to spot some whales in the distance.
Go for a drive
Take a drive down Pali Highway for a beautiful panoramic view from Nuuanu Pali lookout. Drive up to Tantalus at dusk. Once the sun sets over the island, the view of Honolulu and the valley are dramatic from atop Tantalus. Drive through Manoe Valley and be charmed by the neighborhoods.
Learn something new
Try to teach yourself how to say humuhumunukunukuapuaa three times in a row and try to spot one as you walk through ‘the Tube’ at the DFS Galleria in Waikiki Walk. Learn how a lei is made by visiting the makers on Maunakea Street or learn to play the ukelali while hula dancing at the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center. Ask a local to teach the history behind the Wizard Stones on Waikiki Beach. Take a walk through Duke’s Canoe Club at Outrigger and check out the photos for a little Hawaiian and surf history. Attend a Sunday service at Kawaiahao Church for a service in the Hawaiian language.
Check out some hulu dancing
The DFS Galleria has the Aloha Waikiki Hawaiian Hula that visitors can check out daily. Also, every day at sunset hula dancing can be seen at the Duke Kahanamoku Statue outside of Duke’s Canoe Club.
Be a spectator
Check out a sailing race every that goes out every Friday from Magic Island or a world class surf competition on North Shore. Check out our list of things to do on the North shore of Oahu
