Top Things to do in Oahu
10 Sacred & Religious Sites in Oahu That You Shouldn't Miss
The Hawaiian island of Oahu is a surfer’s paradise, with swelling waves that can reach epic heights. No wonder, then, that it’s the site of one of the world’s premier competitions, the Triple Crown of Surfing. If hanging ten isn’t your thing, you can still enjoy the beautiful beaches – particularly famous Waikiki Beach in Honolulu. Art connoisseurs will appreciate the annual Hale'iwa Arts Festival, a celebration of local crafts, painting, jewelry, sculpture, dance, and music.
Restaurants in Oahu
1. Kawaiahao Church
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 73 reviews
The oldest church in Honolulu served as the royal chapel for 20 years.
Reviewed By Jazzdat - Clearwater, United States
We attended the 9:00 AM Sunday Worship Service on the First Sunday of Advent, December 2017. It was lovely and decorated beautifully for Christmas. As guests, we were made to feel welcome and we were presented leis at the beginning of the service. Communion is available on the first Sunday of every month to all Christians.The church is celebrating its 197th Anniversary as a Christian church (Protestant). The service is given in Hawaiian and English and embraces its historic past as the National Church for the former Kingdom of Hawaii (pre-statehood). The architecture of the church itself is stunning and historic artwork and Hawaiian artifacts can be found throughout it. On the Sunday we visited, the service was conducted by Rev. James "Kimo" Merseberg, who I understand is a visiting pastor.
2. Kuan Yin Temple
3. Valley of the Temples
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 346 reviews
Reviewed By 580kirstya - Sydney, Australia
Take your time here. It may seem like it is just a "five minute" walk around - but there are little nooks and cranny's where you can hide in plain sight, but tucked away behind some lovely trees. Sit on the seats, feed the huge koi fish and birds (they will eat from your hand if you are patient), pet the cats (careful of the calico one, he's cranky!), chickens that want cuddles, peacocks that just strut around, light some incense, give thanks and say a prayer (or three) to give charitably and to just reflect in the ambiance. It was such a restful place.
4. Moiliili Hongwanji Buddhist Temple
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2 reviews
5. Byodo-In Temple
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,808 reviews
Reviewed By VictoriaAllen - Las Vegas, United States
Byodo-In Temple is located inside the Valley of The Temples Memorial Park and is a replica of an old Buddhist temple from Japan. We went here as part of a city tour and I must say was probably my most favorite stop. The drive to the temple took us through a cemetery that had the most beautiful marble headstones and the grounds are very well-maintained. There's a gravel path that leads to either side of the temple and allows for some picturesque and tranquil views. Beautiful architecture against the backdrop of the Ko'olau Ridge takes your breath away. The temple is surrounded by a beautiful Japanese-style garden complete with a koi pond, statue of Buddha and traditional Japanese tea house. Donations are welcome for the restoration of the Buddha statue and you are asked to remove your shoes before entering (as a sign of respect) and they welcome you to light incense as an offering to Buddha. You can also purchase food to feed the koi -- a lot of fun for kids! Truly one of the best sites to see when visiting Oahu. When not visiting with a tour, there is no time limit on the length of your visit. Definitely a must see when visiting the island.
6. Saint Augustine by-the-Sea
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 572 reviews
Reviewed By 661matthewy - Salt Lake City, United States
This is a beatifiul church right off the Waikiki beach so it gets lots of visiting parishioners. We attended the Aasumption of Mary Mass and the priest who was visiting from the states did a wonderful homily. The story of St Augustine is a wonderful story by itself. We have attended Mass each time we visit. .
7. Saint Andrew's Cathedral
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 93 reviews
Reviewed By SallyM1779 - Woodstown, United States
For a truly Hawaiian experience, even if you are not an Episcopalian, attend the Sunday 8 am hawaiian language service at this Cathedral. Very easy to access from Waikiki and near Iolani Palace and the Governor's Mansion if you are touring around Honolulu. We never miss it every time we go. The people are very friendly and hint hint sometimes the Royal Society is there to celebrate or commemorate a Royal's birthday! Fabulous piece of history
8. Mu Ryang Sa Buddhist Temple
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 38 reviews
Reviewed By Lilypu2
The temple and grounds provides an idyllic setting for contemplation, with tropical breezes, rustling palms, blooming lotuses and birdsong. Gregory Pai’s gentle voice and sage-like presence, combined with a profound knowledge of the dharma which he generously shares, takes meditation to the next level. With COVID driving the program online, his unique ecumenical approach continues to attract a wide following, including this Tibetan Buddhist.
9. Laie Hawaii Temple
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 355 reviews
Reviewed By lorRenzo-77
We loved our virtual tour and learned so much about the Temple, the grounds, and the history. We also enjoyed the model of the Temple including the architecture of this beautiful edifice. Sister Brown and Sister Morris were excellent tour guides and we loved their testimonies of the Gospel.
