The Aloha Tours Journal
Local Oahu guides, hikes & hidden beaches
Honest, locally-written guides to help you plan a better trip to Oahu — from Diamond Head reservations to the best month to visit.
Best Time to Visit Oahu in 2026: A Local Month-by-Month Guide
April–May and September–early October are the sweet spot: warm water, dry trade winds, lighter crowds, and the lowest hotel rates of the year.
Diamond Head Hike: Complete 2026 Guide (Reservations, Parking, Tips)
Diamond Head (Lēʻahi) is a 1.6-mile round-trip hike with a 560 ft climb. Non-residents must reserve entry online — here is exactly how to do it.
North Shore Oahu Day Trip from Waikiki: The Local Itinerary
A 50-mile loop through Haleiwa, Waimea Bay, the Banzai Pipeline, and Laniakea — Oahu's famous turtle beach. Plan 8–10 hours door to door.
Hanauma Bay Snorkeling: Reservations, Tips, and What to Expect
Hanauma Bay caps daily visitors at ~1,400 and reservations open exactly 2 days in advance at 7 AM HST. Get one and you'll snorkel a protected reef with 450+ fish species.
Top Things to Do in Oahu, Hawaii: A Local's 2026 Guide
From Diamond Head to Pearl Harbor, Waikiki to the North Shore — here are the 10 best things to do in Oahu, with insider tips, best times to go, and what makes each one unforgettable.