What to do in Oahu while house and pet sitting

If you're looking for things to do in Oahu during your next house sit, we've got the answer. From making the most of the island's beaches and immersing yourself in surf culture, to tackling breathtaking hikes through lush volcanic scenery, our list of Oahu activities will keep you – and your new four-legged pals – entertained. 

Oahu attractions

Hawaii's largest island is the heart and soul of the state: the majority of Hawaii's people call it home. With its laid-back beaches and breathtaking volcanic peaks, Oahu's attractions are bound to get you out of the house and into nature.  

1. Diamond Head State Monument: Make the trek to the top of this former fort, set on top of a volcanic cone, and you'll be rewarded with incredible panoramic views of Oahu. The huge crater takes its English name from the shimmering sands on the neighbouring beach. British soldiers who visited in the 19th Century thought the sparkling calcite crystals were precious diamonds. The trail can be pretty tough, taking you past WWII bunkers and various lookout points, ending at a picnic spot right on the crater's rim.

2. Kailua Beach: With its turquoise waters, pristine white sand and wide variety of activities on offer, Kailua Beach is one of the most popular spots on Oahu's windward coast. As well as kicking back and catching a tan you can enjoy activities like beach volleyball, boogie boarding, kite-surfing and kayaking. There are barbecue pits if you fancy cooking some lunch, as well as calmer sections of ocean if you're in the mood for a swim. Best of all, leashed dogs are allowed – so if you're dog sitting you can bring your new buddy along.

3. Makapu'u Point Lighthouse Trail: This two mile long trail sits right on the easternmost point of Oahu, making it a popular place to watch the sun rise. It follows the edge of the Pacific Ocean, leading to the distinctive red-roofed Makapu-u Point Lighthouse. If you're visiting between November and May, keep an eye on the horizon – whales often pass by during the winter months. There are plenty of benches along the way if you want to sit back and simply watch the waves, too.

Free things to do in Oahu

Some of the best things to do in Oahu don’t cost a thing. Whether you're visiting on a budget or just like to be smart with your money, these free things to do in Oahu are well worth checking out. 

1. Waikiki Beach: This world-famous beach is just as popular today as it was in the 19th Century, when Hawaiian royalty would come here to relax and hit the surf. It's easy to see why. The soft, golden sands were made for lounging on and the high winter waves are a treat for anyone who likes to hang ten. The clean water is also great for snorkelling, with the chance to see colourful tropical fish and sea turtles. Nearby hotels often host free hula shows, so keep an eye on event listings to get even more out of your beach day.  

2. Pearl Harbor National Memorial: The Pearl Harbor National Memorial is a sombre reminder of the 1941 attack that led to the US entering WWII. The Visitor Centre includes galleries with information about the events leading up to that fateful day, and what happened next. Photographs, artefacts, and recordings of witness stories add a personal edge. Take the short boat ride out to the USS Arizona Memorial: it floats above the sunken battleship where 1,177 soldiers lost their lives. 

3. Koko Crater Trail: Get ready to feel the burn on this one-mile vertical hike. Nature's ultimate Stairmaster, the Koko Crater Trail has more than one thousand steps. Or, more accurately, old railroad ties. These tracks once served trains bringing military supplies to the top, but today it's a popular spot for walkers who really want to test their endurance. There is one flat section – however it's a bridge over a 40 foot drop. If you don't have a head for heights, you can use the dirt track to the right. The view from the top is definitely worth it, with incredible views of the Honolulu skyline.

Fun things to do in Oahu

When you've got a bit of downtime, these fun Oahu activities are guaranteed to put a smile on your face. 

1. Lanikai Beach: Oahu locals claim that Lanikai is one of the world's most beautiful beaches and, with its white sands and tranquil waters, it's hard to argue. This undeveloped beach feels like a million miles away from built-up areas like Waikiki, leaving you feeling like you're on your own desert island. Relax on the soft sands and enjoy the view of the two islands in the distance – one of which is a bird sanctuary. The calm aqua sea is ideal for swimming and kayaking, and dogs are welcome too. 

2. Oahu Surfing: Surfing is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Oahu. In fact, it was Waikiki-born Duke Kahanamoku who introduced the world to surfing in the early 20th Century, when he and his friends would teach tourists how to hang ten. Waimea Bay on Oahu's North Shore is renowned as the birthplace of big wave surfing, but if you're a beginner it's better to look for a surf school near calmer waters. The seaside booths dotted along Kuhio and Waikiki beaches have instructors whose families have been teaching for generations.

3. Oahu Diving & Snorkelling: With more than a thousand miles of coral reef, the clear waters surrounding Oahu are a dream for scuba divers and snorkelers. Expect to see schools of colourful fish, majestic green sea turtles and even dolphins. Bring your snorkel and see what you can spot at Sans Souci Beach, or hop on a boat tour around Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve to see a wider array of watery wildlife. Adventurous scuba divers can enjoy exploring wrecks like the Corsair and Sea Tiger, or enjoy popular shore dives like Shark's Cove.

What to do in Oahu with pets

Some of the best things to do in Oahu are pet friendly, which is great news for house sitters. Get out and discover these awesome places with your new four-legged friends.

1. Lanikai Pillbox Hike: This well-marked trail has a steep incline to get your calf muscles working, but it's well worth it for the sweeping views of the Na Mokulua islands just off Lanikai Beach. Bring plenty of water for yourself and your four-legged hiking buddy, and take time to snap some iconic photos together at the top.

2. Moanalua Dog Park: Honolulu's first off-leash dog park is a well-maintained spot with plenty of running space. It's a great place for your four-legged companion to run free and make new friends. There's plenty of fresh water for thirsty pups, and bins for getting rid of poop bags. Plenty of trees offer lots of cool shade on those hot Hawaii days. While the dogs play, humans can relax at the picnic benches – and chat to local dog owners about the best things to do in Oahu. 

3. Aloha Beer Co.: This restaurant and taproom has expanded its outdoor seating area, making it easier for people to dine with their dogs. The menu includes thin crust pizza, loaded fries and craft beer. Your four-legged dining companion won't miss out, either. There's a dedicated dog menu with dishes like Bibim-pup (chopped chicken, veggies, bacon and an egg yolk) or a simple side of grilled chicken. You can keep the doggy bowl for a few dollars – a great souvenir.

Best restaurants in Oahu

Oahu is a true melting pot, and the diverse cuisine – influenced by everything from Japanese to Portuguese – shows that. From sustainable grilled seafood to casual comfort food classics, you'll definitely leave with a happy belly. These are some of the best restaurants in Oahu.

1. Mahina & Sun's: Chef Erik Leong's restaurant is a tribute to the people and places of Hawaii. His menu is packed with approachable dishes inspired by the comfort food his mother would cook every day, before he went to school. Visit for dinner and try the Mahina Family Feast – featuring whole fried fish straight from the market and sides like cucumber ume salad and roasted roots poke. There's live local music every night to complete the experience. 

2. Fatboy's: When Oahu locals are craving no-frills food, they head to Fatboy's. This casual restaurant has four locations on the island, and is known for its Hawaiian-style plate lunches. Choose from dishes like crispy boneless garlic chicken, short ribs marinated in soy, garlic and ginger, or shredded pork shoulder – all served with white rice and macaroni salad. 

3. Ken's Fresh Fish: Fisherman Ken Broad set up this simple roadside fish market and takeaway to serve freshly caught fish – nothing more, nothing less. Dishes include fish katsu, coconut shrimp and poke bowls, along with the freshest sushi and sashimi you can dream of. If you'd rather cook for yourself, you can buy freshly landed fish to bring back to your house sit – or to the beach for a barbeque.  

House and pet sitting in Oahu

Life's definitely a beach in Oahu. With soft white sand, rollicking surf and lush volcanic summits, there's plenty to see and do on Hawaii's most populated island.

If looking after adorable animal friends in paradise sounds like your kind of trip, check out house sits in Hawaii.