How to Spend 2 Days on Oahu

With two full days on Oahu, you can spend one day discovering the natural and cultural attractions of the greater Hawaiian island, and another day taking part in island activities in and around Honolulu and Waikiki. Here are some suggestions for an unforgettable 48-hour itinerary that suits your—and your family’s—interests.

Day 1: Explore the Island

**Morning:**To see as much of Oahu as possible in one day with the least amount of hassle, embark on a full-day circle island tour, which provides an island overview and covers top attractions including the North Shore beaches, Diamond Head, the Dole Plantation, and Hanauma Bay. Alternatively, rise early to dive with sharks off the North Shore. 

**Afternoon:**If you’re not on a circle island tour, opt for a helicopter tour and get the ultimate perspective on Oahu’s beaches, bays, and mountains. Or check out one of the island’s most scenic locations—Kualoa Ranch—where you can ride ATVs, zipline, and see Jurassic Park filming locations.

**Night:**Enjoy a traditional luau and other Polynesian activities with an evening visit to the Polynesian Cultural Center on Oahu’s northeast coast. The luau package includes dinner and a captivating hula, music, and fire-knives performance.

Day 2: Enjoy Local Experiences

**Morning:**Before the heat sets in, see the sights of Honolulu on a bike tour or head up to Diamond Head State Monument on a guided walking tour of the crater. To visit Pearl Harbor as efficiently as possible, opt for a half-day tour.  

**Afternoon:**For independent sightseeing with convenient transportation, book a ticket on the Waikiki hop-on hop-off trolley or check out Honolulu’s culinary scene on a foodie bike tour. If you prefer to be in the water, a snorkeling catamaran cruise can’t be beat.

**Night:**Head out to sea on a dinner cruise to enjoy the evening air, watch the sunset, and look back at Oahu from the boat deck. Music lovers might want to check out the Rock-a-Hula show for a Vegas–style performance.