If you're looking to meet the people of Hawaii, Oahu is a good place to start. Here you'll discover a true melting pot of diverse ethnicities, cultures and lifestyles bound together by the spirit of aloha.
The history and majesty of the Native Hawaiian people are evident throughout the historic places of Oahu. Significant landmarks like Iolani Palace, the King Kamehameha I Statue across the street, the Duke Kahanamoku statue on Waikiki beach, and the Bishop Museum celebrate the accomplishments of the people of Hawaii.
Today, Oahu has diverse cultures that have blended and transformed the island's traditions, festivals and foods. As agriculture boomed in the late 19th century, workers from China, Japan, Russia, Korea, Puerto Rico, Portugal and the Philippines were brought to the islands to work and live on plantations. Today, you can experience this blend of cultures by enjoying Oahu's local food or attending the island's many festivals during your stay. To learn even more about Hawaii's multicultural roots, take an educational tour through venues like the Hawaii Plantation Village or visit Oahu's many fine museums.
The Oahu of today is a fascinating mix of the past and the present. Businessmen meet farmers and artisans. Eastern philosophies meet western technology. Music, dance, theatre and the arts in general are community treasures. Visitors from around the world meet locals still perpetuating Hawaiian traditions and customs. And while the people of Oahu blend the rich legacy of Hawaiian culture with the world of the 21st century, you'll find the spirit of aloha remains as timeless as ever in the Heart of Hawaii.
Arts & Culture Experiences
- 24-Hours in Waikiki
With so much to see and do, you can go 24-hours in Waikiki with something to experience. - Entertainment on Oahu
Oahu is Hawaii's center for the arts, entertainment and events with something happening just about every week of the year. - Festivals of Oahu
Oahu has more festivals than any other island, ranging from parades to cultural celebrations. - Historic Places of Oahu
From Iolani Palace to Pearl Harbor, explore the historic places of Oahu and enrich your vacation to Hawaii. - Hula on Oahu
See authentic hula throughout Oahu at seasonal festivals, competitions, luau and live performances at hotels and resorts. - Museums of Oahu
Oahu is home to some of Hawaii's largest museums and collections featuring art, artifacts and heirlooms from Hawaii and the Pacific.