Guide · 31 Places
Oahu
United States
Before You Go
Year-round tropical climate (24-29°C/75-85°F) with trade winds keeping it comfortable. April to October is slightly warmer and drier. December to March sees more rain but also cooler temperatures. Peak season is December to March and June to August. Shoulder seasons (April-May, September-November) offer good weather with fewer crowds.
Visa
Check requirementsInternational visitors from Visa Waiver Program countries can stay up to 90 days without a visa (requires ESTA authorization). Citizens of other countries need a B-2 tourist visa. Canadian and Mexican citizens have simplified entry requirements. Check requirements at travel.state.gov.
Getting There
TransportationBy Air: Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) is the main gateway, located 6km west of Waikiki.
By Ferry: Inter-island ferries connect to other Hawaiian islands.
Language
CommunicationEnglish and Hawaiian are official languages. English is universal. Some Hawaiian words are commonly used (aloha, mahalo, etc.).
Currency
Money mattersUS Dollar (USD). Credit cards accepted everywhere. ATMs widely available. Tipping is customary: 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, $2-5 for rideshare drivers.
Getting Around
Local transportTheBus: Public bus system covering Oahu (single ride $3, day pass $7.50).
Uber/Lyft: Available but less common than mainland US.
Taxis: Available but expensive.
Rental Car: Popular option for exploring the island.
Walking: Waikiki and downtown Honolulu are walkable.
From the Airport
Arrival infoTheBus Route 20: To Waikiki (45-60 min, $3).
Uber/Taxi: $30-45 to Waikiki (20-30 min).
Shuttle: Shared shuttles ($15-25 per person).
Rental Car: Multiple agencies at airport.