Hawaii’s tropical weather, sun-soaked shores, and luxury resorts are undeniably alluring. Between the bustle of Waikiki, the poolside cocktails, and the photogenic sunsets, it’s easy to overlook what makes Oahu truly extraordinary: its people, their stories, and their sacred relationship with the ʻāina (land).
If your goal is to leave the island with more than just a tan (or a sunburn), and you wanna walk away understanding the traditions that have shaped Hawaii for generations, this activity guide is for you.
The truth is, Hawaii’s soul isn’t found on a beach towel or in a beach chair—it’s woven into the hands that pound taro, the chants that honor ancestors, and the communities working tirelessly to preserve their heritage.
Sure, your swanky hotel is nice, and pool time is hard to say no to. But to truly experience the island, connecting with locals and learning about their heritage is far more enriching than surface-level tourism.
Here are a handful of ways to partake in authentic, hands-on experiences that not only connect you to Hawaii’s local culture but also let you give back in meaningful ways. From lei-making to local farm tours, these activities will leave you with more than just memories—they’ll leave you with a deeper connection to the islands and their people.
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Table of Contents
1. Get hands-on at the Polynesian Cultural Center
If you thought the Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC) was mostly just a luau, you’d only be scratching the surface. Don’t get me wrong—their luau is solid—but it’s nothing compared to everything else you can experience here.
The real magic happens in the Islands of Polynesia, where you can row a traditional outrigger canoe, learn how to twirl poi balls, take ukulele lessons, try to spin a fire knife (the safe way!), dance hula, and even taste freshly cooked Samoan-style ‘ulu (breadfruit).
And just when you think you’ve done it all, the Hā: Breath of Life evening show will absolutely blow you away—it’s hands-down the best Polynesian performance on the island. And I don’t use the word ‘best’ lightly!
👉 DEAL ALERT: Save 10% on select PCC packages when you book at least 10 days in advance!
2. Deep dive into Hawaiian culture at The Bishop Museum
It took me years to finally visit the Bishop Museum, and honestly, I was missing out big time. This place is packed with fascinating history, and no matter how much you think you know about Hawaii, you’re 100% going to learn something new.
One of the highlights is the Wayfinders exhibit, which showcases the ancient Polynesian art of navigation—using stars, ocean swells, and wind patterns to cross the Pacific. You can immerse yourself in a world of stars inside the J. Watumull Planetarium, where legendary navigator Nainoa Thompson trained to revive this nearly lost tradition.
But that’s just the start! The museum also dives deep into Hawaiian history, from the powerful aliʻi (chiefs) and their sacred kapu system to the significance of traditional tattooing across Polynesia. You’ll even learn about lesser-known Polynesian cultures beyond Hawaii, like the Marquesas and Rapa Nui.
If you’re even remotely curious about Hawaii’s roots, this museum is absolutely worth your time.
👉 Pro Tip: The Bishop Museum is included on the Go City Oahu Pass—aka your golden ticket to saving serious cash on Oahu’s top attractions. If you’re planning to hit up multiple spots (think Pearl Harbor, Kualoa Ranch, or a snorkel tour), this pass can slash your sightseeing costs big time. Want to see how much you could save? Click here to read my review of the pass!
DEAL ALERT: For a limited time, use the above link + the promo code AFFGOALL for an additional 5% off your Go City pass. This code is valid for any Go City pass in any destination!
3. Explore a working farm at Kualoa Ranch
Kualoa Ranch is an absolutely gorgeous region of the island best known for being a filming location for Jurassic Park. Yes, you can tour the movie sites, but if you really want to connect with the land, check out some of their immersive farm experiences.
- Kualoa Grown Tour – Walk through one of Oahu’s most well-preserved ancient ahupuaʻa (land divisions) and an 800-year-old fishpond while learning about sustainable farming practices.
- Mālama Experience – Get your hands dirty with activities like harvesting kalo (taro), thatching a traditional hale (Hawaiian house), or working in the Hawaiian medicinal plant garden—all while understanding how vital these practices are to the island’s ecosystem.
- Horseback Tour – Ride through Oahu’s valleys and pastures just like a paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy), soaking in the views on a relaxed two-hour ride.
You’ll walk away from Kualoa Ranch not just with amazing photos, but with a deeper understanding of Hawaiian agriculture, sustainability, and the island’s rich history—and probably a newfound appreciation for kalo and fresh tropical fruit!
You can explore their other top-selling tours here.
👉 Pro Tip: The Kualoa Grown Tour at Kuoloa Ranch is included on the Go City Oahu Pass! Hop aboard a trolley car to see tropical fruit and flower gardens, get a glimpse of the “Secret Island,” and learn all about Kualoa Farm, the local culture, Hawaiian agriculture, and native plants and wildlife.
4. Make your own lei
Forget the pre-made leis at the airport—roll up your sleeves and create your own! There are plenty of places on Oahu where you can learn this beautiful Hawaiian tradition firsthand:
- The Royal Hawaiian – Every Friday morning, you have the opportunity to make your own lei at the iconic pink hotel right in the heart of Waikiki. Limited to the first 24 guests, ages 10 and older, no reservations required.
- The Kāhala Hotel & Resort – Try your hand at Haku Kupeʻe bracelet-making (Thursdays) or lei-making (Fridays & Sundays) while soaking in the serene vibes of this luxury resort.
Lei-making isn’t just a craft—it’s a symbol of love, respect, and celebration. Plus, you’ll walk away with a beautiful, Instagram-worthy souvenir that smells like paradise.
Want to find more places to make your own lei? Check out this list of other spots and exact class times here.
5. Learn to hula at The Royal Hawaiian
Hula isn’t just a dance; it’s a powerful way to tell stories and preserve Hawaiian culture through movement. If you’re looking to learn more and even try your hand at this tradition, head to The Royal Hawaiian’s Royal Grove for a free hula lesson every Tuesday.
No experience needed—just show up and learn the fundamentals of hand gestures and footwork from skilled instructors. It’s a great way to connect with Hawaii’s rich cultural heritage, and best of all, it’s completely free!
6. Visit a fishpond to learn about ancient aquaculture
Hawaiians were masters of sustainable living, and their ancient fishponds showcase their deep understanding of ecology and resource management.
At Heʻeia Fishpond, you can take a guided walking tour to learn about this traditional loko i‘a (fishpond) and its role in feeding communities for centuries. More than just a historical site, He‘eia Fishpond is a living classroom where ancestral knowledge and modern sustainability practices come together.
With a mission to provide intellectual, physical, and spiritual sustenance for the community, Heʻeia Fishpond offers one-hour walking tours that dive into its rich history and remarkable design. Stroll along the walls, hear stories of the land, and gain a deeper appreciation for Hawaiian aquaculture.
7. Attend a traditional luau with a story
Not all luaus are created equal–choose one that tells a story. Opt for a culturally rich experience like the Ali’i Luau at The Polynesian Cultural Center or Toa Luau at Waimea Valley. Both go way beyond the food to bring Polynesian history and traditions to life.
At PCC’s Aliʻi Luau, the evening is centered around the story of Queen Emma of Hawaii, honoring Hawaii’s royal heritage with a procession of the Royal Court, the unearthing of the imu (underground oven), and a lively showcase of Hawaiian music and hula.
While the luau is centered around Hawaiian heritage, you’ll get multiple opportunities to learn about six other Polynesian cultures too—Tonga, Aotearoa (New Zealand), Tahiti, Samoa, Fiji, and Rapa Nui—through hands-on activities and mini shows at the Islands Of Polynesia.
And of course, PCC wouldn’t be as renowned as it is without their large-scale evening production, Hā: Breath of Life—a story told through dance, fire, and music–and an absolute must-watch.
For those of you who prefer more intimate experiences, check out Toa Luau. You’ll experience a kava ceremony, a luau feast, and a dynamic Polynesian show featuring performances from Hawaii, Tonga, New Zealand, Tahiti, and Samoa—including an epic fire knife performance to close out the night.
Plus, your luau ticket grants you daytime access to Waimea Valley and Waimea Falls, where you’ll get the chance to learn about the Hawaiian people who used to live there (and swim at one of Oahu’s most accessible waterfalls!).
8. Take a tour of Kahuku Farms
Kahuku Farms isn’t just a farm-to-table cafe as Yelp might have you thinking—it’s a fully functional, family-run farm where you’ll feel like part of the ‘ohana.
Hop on the Grand Wagon Tour to explore fields of tropical fruits, hear stories about the farm’s history, and gain a newfound appreciation for the hard work behind every fresh bite. Everyone here is incredibly welcoming, making the experience even more special.
After the tour, swing by the café for a refreshing papaya banana smoothie, a farm-grown acai bowl, or a slice of warm, grilled banana bread. Trust me, you won’t want to leave without a taste of their locally-sourced specialties!
9. Taste the island flavors at a farmers’ market
If you want to experience the true flavors of Hawaii, skip the supermarket and head straight to a farmers market.
These weekly markets are where locals and visitors alike come together to celebrate the islands’ bounty, from tropical fruits and fresh-caught fish to handmade treats and artisanal crafts. Plus, shopping at farmers markets is a delicious way to mālama by supporting local farmers and small businesses.
On Oahu, the KCC Farmers Market at Kapiolani Community College is a must-visit. Held every Saturday morning, this market is a foodie’s paradise, offering everything from lilikoi (passion fruit) malasadas to locally grown coffee and exotic fruits like rambutan and starfruit. Don’t forget to grab a fresh coconut to sip while you shop!
10. Discover Waimea Valley (beyond just the waterfall)
Most visitors head to Waimea Valley for the waterfall swim, but there’s so much more to explore in this sacred ahupua‘a.
The valley is home to a 150-acre botanical garden, where plants have been cultivated for over 50 years, showcasing native Hawaiian and global tropical species. Beyond the gardens, you’ll find ancient archaeological sites that are super interesting to see–78 sites of interest have been identified here, including religious shrines, housing sites, agricultural terraces, and ancient fishponds.
There are also cultural demonstrations, lei-making sessions, and even traditional Hawaiian hula performances on select days.
For an even deeper dive into the cultural significance of this place, book the Waimea Valley Kipahele Tour, an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience aboard an eco-friendly electric shuttle. Led by a cultural specialist, this 75-minute guided journey offers a rare look at Waimea’s history, legends, and natural beauty—giving you a whole new appreciation for this lush valley.
👉 Pro Tip: Entry to Waimea Valley is included on the Go City Oahu Pass too.
11. Go on Manoa Chocolate’s cacao farm tour
Chocolate lovers, this one’s for you! At Mānoa Chocolate, this farm-to-bar tour immerses you in the world of Hawaiian cacao, where you’ll walk through lush orchards, learn about sustainable farming practices, and taste fresh cacao fruit straight from the tree.
As you explore Kamananui Cacao Orchards, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the connection between the local land and the chocolate-making process. Back at the chocolate factory, watch how ethically sourced cacao beans are roasted, refined, and tempered into rich, complex bars.
Then, it’s time to indulge! You’ll have a curated tasting session, where you’ll experience the nuanced flavors that highlight both Hawaiian cacao and beans from around the world.
12. Experience the life of a paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy)
Gunstock Ranch is a full-fledged working cattle ranch where adventure meets conservation, all while keeping Hawaii’s paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) spirit alive.
Tucked away on Oahu’s North Shore, this family-owned ranch offers more than just scenic horseback rides—it’s a hands-on way to experience Hawaii’s wild beauty while supporting efforts to preserve its land and culture.
Whether you’re up for a laid-back one-hour ride, a more immersive 1.5-hour trek, or a special keiki (kids’) ride for the little ones, there’s a lot of fun and learning to be had there.
Not into horseback riding? Hop in for an off-road eco-tour through hidden caves and lush forests, or even plant a native tree to leave your mark on the island—literally.
Experience Hawaiian Culture + Save Money Doing It
As you might have noticed in a few instances above, I mentioned Go City Oahu. This digital attraction pass makes it easy to dive deep without breaking the bank.
With 45+ included activities, this pass is a practical choice for travelers who want to prioritize meaningful experiences while saving money on the cost of activities. As someone who’s used it firsthand, I can confirm: it delivers serious value on an island where costs add up quickly.
Here are the activities we mentioned above that are included with a Go City Oahu pass:
- 🌺 Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC): Immerse yourself in the traditions of six Pacific Island nations through performances, hands-on workshops, and storytelling led by cultural practitioners. (The luau is not included with the pass, but they do offer upgrades if you call in.)
- 🌿 Lei Making: Craft your own fragrant lei under the guidance of experts—far more rewarding than buying a pre-made one.
- 🏛️ Bishop Museum: Explore Hawaii’s history through its multitude of Polynesian artifacts, volcanic science exhibits, and a planetarium showcasing the power of Polynesian wayfinding.
- 💃 Hula Class: Learn the art of hula from instructors who emphasize its cultural significance, not just the dance moves.
- 🌊 Waimea Valley: Learn about ancient Hawaiians, hike through lush botanical gardens to a sacred waterfall, and take a refreshing dip in its waters.
More cultural activities included with the pass:
- Coconut Palm Basket Weaving – create functional art using traditional techniques
- Taro Pounding & Kava Experience – get hands-on with Hawaiian staples and sample earthy kava
- Fire Dance Workshops – master the basics of this mesmerizing Polynesian art form
- Shoreline Fishing – learn local methods for catching fish the sustainable way
- …plus dozens of other activities that connect you to Hawaii’s heritage!
Planning your trip to Oahu? Here are a few other guides that may be of use to you:
