As the calendar inevitably flips to yet another untold decade, a “bucket list” is no longer just relevant to retirees. Thanks to Rob Reiner’s classic 2007 film, Americans of all ages have begun to craft lengthy, meticulously-researched bucket lists—gradually crossing off one item after another. In fact, many of Prince Waikiki’s guests arrive with a detailed itinerary at the ready as there are hundreds of unique activities, attractions, and destinations worth exploring just minutes from this oceanfront paradise. But piecing together a handy, well-crafted Oahu bucket list isn’t easy for those who’ve never visited this tropical haven. While each of Prince Waikiki’s intoxicating suites is a short distance from pristine Waikiki Beach, the world-famous Ala Moana Center, and countless high-end restaurants, there’s so much more to explore on this 597-square-foot island.

35 Essential Oahu Bucket List Ideas

It wasn’t easy leaving off numerous quintessential Honolulu bucket list items, but, for brevity’s sake, this list features 35 items that are inadvertently scattered throughout the island. Compiling the very best of Honolulu (and beyond) was a tall task, but these 35 bullets genuinely encapsulate the essence of Oahu. It’s worth noting that each of these Oahu bucket list possibilities can be prearranged with the help of Prince Waikiki’s friendly, knowledgeable concierge team. Oahu sightseeing has never been more convenient thanks to the ability to book online. Still, sometimes, the personalized touch of a travel guide adds an extra dash of sophistication to an already luxurious trip.

• The Oahu Spectacular Helicopter Tour
• Swim with Turtles at Laniakea Beach
• Learn to Surf on Waikiki Beach
• Diamond Head State Monument
• The Ala Moana Center: the World’s Largest Open-Air Shopping Mall
• Round Trip Volcano Tour
• Pearl Harbor National Memorial
• Iolani Palace
• A Farm-to-Table Luau
• Reserve an Oceanfront Cabana
• Swim Underneath Waimea Falls
• Nocturnal Paddleboarding
• Hook a Marlin
• Tropical Farms’ Macadamia Nut Farm Tour
• The Best Brunch in Honolulu
• Waikiki’s Friday Night Fireworks, Visible at Hinana Bar
• Oahu Photography Tours
• Byodo-In Temple, a Non-Practicing Buddhist Temple
• Kaka’ako’s Street Art Murals (2018, 2019)
• Live Jazz at Blue Note
• Complimentary Hula Lessons
• Swim with Spinner Dolphins
• Hawaiian Parasail
• Pro Surfers at Banzai Pipeline
• A Day-Trip to Oahu’s North Coast
• Horseback Riding at Kualoa Ranch
• Pacific Skydiving
• The Annual Okinawan Festival
• Twenty-Seven Holes at an Arnold Palmer-Designed Golf Course
• Spend an Entire Day on the Beach
• Climb Aboard a Honolulu Pedal Pub
• Sunset Catamaran Expedition
• Swim with Sharks (Inside a Cage)
• Luxuriant In-Room Dining
• An Underwater Submarine Adventure

Top-Rated Honolulu Hotels: Prince Waikiki

Each of the Oahu adventures listed above has been deemed exemplary by Prince Waikiki’s concierge team, past guests, and the Honolulu’s online community. The perfect place to start and finish each day of relaxation, exploration, and adventure is along the Ala Wai Boat Harbor’s edge. After a sunset dinner at 100 Sails Restaurant & Bar, sit poolside with a refreshing cocktail in hand to reflect on a genuinely unforgettable day. For even more Oahu bucket list ideas, please call 1-808-944-4423 to speak with a helpful travel guide. Prince remains the top-rated Waikiki hotel, according to TripAdvisor—feel free to browse through the city’s most luxuriant guest suites before booking a well-deserved tropical escape to Honolulu!