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Oʻahu FAQ

Here you’ll find a list of answers to practical questions you may have about your vacation to Oʻahu. For additional information, email [email protected] and we’ll reply as soon as possible.
 
Where is the main airport on Oʻahu?
The main airport is Honolulu International Airport (HNL). HNL is also Hawaiʻi’s major airport, serving as the entry point for most of Hawaiʻi’s visitors.
 
Do I need a car to get around Oʻahu?
If you’re planning to stay in Waikīkī, you can get around by shuttle, tour bus, taxi or Hawaiʻi’s excellent public transportation system. But to really experience Oʻahu outside of Waikīkī, you should consider renting a car at Honolulu International Airport.
 
Where are the major accommodation areas on Oʻahu?
Most resorts and hotels can be found in Waikīkī. You can also find one luxury resort in east Honolulu (The Kāhala Hotel & Resort), one on the North Shore (Turtle Bay Resort) and one on the Leeward Coast in the Olina Resort area (Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa). However, there are hotels, bed-and-breakfasts, rental cottages and condos located throughout the island.
 
How far is it from Waikīkī to Oʻahu’s attractions?
  • Honolulu International Airport to: 30 min
  • Pearl Harbor: 30 min
  • Downtown Honolulu: 15 min
  • Polynesian Cultural Center: 1 hour, 15 min
  • Haleʻiwa Town (North Shore): 60 min
  • Nuʻuanu Pali Lookout: 30 min
  • Olina 26 miles: 45 min 

When is a good time to visit Oʻahu?
Any time of year is a good time to visit Oʻahu. The average temperature ranges from 75˚–85˚F. Summer, between April and November, is warmer and drier while winter, between December and March, is a bit cooler. Trade winds keep things comfortable year-round. It is generally drier on the western (leeward) side of the island, and wetter on the eastern (windward) side.
 
Winter is big-wave surf season on Oʻahu’s North Shore, with major competitions in November and December. Whale-watching season begins in December and ends in May, with peak whale-watching months between January and early April.
 
What is the time difference from the continental U.S.?
Hawaiʻi follows Hawaiʻi Standard Time (GMT-10 hours), which is five hours behind Eastern Standard Time and two hours behind Pacific Standard Time. Hawaiʻi does not observe Daylight Saving Time, so add one extra hour to the time difference during this period (March through November).
 
Do I need my passport to get to Oʻahu?
Since Hawaiʻi is the 50th state, you won’t need to bring your passport unless you’re visiting from outside the United States or traveling to another country after Hawaiʻi.
 
What should I pack on my trip to Oʻahu?
Generally warm weather means you should pack your summer attire. You may want to bring a light jacket or sweater for the evenings. Suits and ties are rarely worn here. Bring some casual dress clothes or resort wear if you plan on experiencing Oʻahu’s nightlife.
 
Traveler’s checks aren’t necessary since credit cards are widely accepted and ATM machines are everywhere.
 
Is there cell phone and internet access on Oʻahu?
Cell phone coverage is readily available in most places if you’re coming from the continental United States. The area code for the state of Hawaiʻi is (808). Internet access is also plentiful.
 
What are the highlights on Oʻahu?
  • Waikīkī: Once a playground for Hawaiian royalty, this historic hot spot is now a gathering place for the world.
  • Pearl Harbor: A National Historical Landmark that features five historic sites memorializing the December 7, 1941 attack.
  • North Shore: During the winter months, this legendary surf mecca attracts the best surfers in the world.
  • ʻIolani Palace: The only official state residence of royalty in the United States and home to the Hawaiian Kingdom’s last two monarchs.
  • Cuisine: Get a taste of famous Hawaiʻi Regional Cuisine from celebrated chefs on Oʻahu.

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