The island of Oahu features an array of outdoor opportunities that blur the lines between active vacation and relaxing getaway. A handful of activities will get you up and moving while enjoying the island's gorgeous views and taking in Hawaii's history and culture. Oahu's temperatures usually stay close to 70 degrees Fahrenheit, so there are year-round possibilities for things like snorkeling, swimming, surfing, walking and hiking.
Snorkeling
Snorkeling is popular and inexpensive. And it will give you up-close views of Hawaii's spectacular marine life. Many shops in Honolulu rent and sell snorkeling gear, and the island has dozens of spots where snorkeling is free, such as Kuilima Cove near Turtle Bay and Sharks Cove at Pupukea Beach Park, both on the North Shore. Hanauma Bay on Oahu's eastern side features a large collection of marine animals. As of 2010, entry fees are $7.50 per person with a $1 parking fee.
Surfing
Whether you're ready to tackle big waves or just learning how to ride, Oahu is the place for surfing. The island's North Shore is home to professional surfing events every year between November and January, and features some of the most popular big-wave surfing spots in the world, such as Banzai Pipeline at Ehukai Beach Park, Waimea Bay and Sunset Beach. If you're just starting out, take lessons from one of the many surf schools in Waikiki, which features a statue of legendary surfer and Olympic swimmer Duke Kahanamoku, the "father of surfing."
Walking
Combine exercise and sightseeing by strolling through Waikiki, which has paved walkways that run alongside its three beaches and into an adjacent park. At dusk, torches along these walkways create a truly tropical atmosphere, perfect for a nighttime stroll on the beach. During the daytime, join the buzz of activity by walking to Waikiki's shops, open-air market, restaurants and beaches.
Hiking
Oahu has more than 30 major hiking trails, ranging from simple, family hikes to strenuous, challenging treks. One of the island's more popular hiking trails is the one up Diamond Head Crater, just east of Waikiki. The 0.8-mile hike climbs 560 feet and gets challenging at the top, with switchbacks and a steep, paved staircase. The view from the summit is a stunning, panoramic look at Honolulu and the surrounding area. For an easier hike, try the Manoa Falls Trail, a 0.75-mile walk through rainforest that can be muddy but is mostly flat and ends at a waterfall and small pool.
Swimming
Oahu has a dozen beaches around the island with lifeguards on duty. These beaches---such Ehukai Beach Park, Ala Moana Beach Park and Kailua Beach Park---are ideal spots to go swimming, not only for the added security but because lifeguards can point out where to swim and which areas to avoid due to dangerous rip currents, undertows and sharp coral reefs. Always check for warning and information signs posted at the beach before you head into the water. For even more security, swim at Waikiki, where lifeguards are present and an offshore retaining wall creates calm conditions for swimmers.
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