17 Fun Things to Do in Oahu When It Rains
Sometimes the weather can be unpredictable in Hawaii and you might wake up to a gloomy day with dark clouds.
We all know that rain doesn’t just make our day a little less enjoyable, but it can also ruin outdoor plans.
But don’t worry, you can still stay dry and have some fun too!
These top things to in Oahu when it rains will make your day seem like a sunny one.
1. Visit Iolani Palace
Iolani Palace is a historical landmark that was built in 1882 and served as the official residence of the Hawaiian monarchs.
Built by King David Kalakaua, it’s one of the most beautiful buildings in all of Honolulu.
The palace has been renovated many times since then and stands today as a testament to the remarkable Renaissance architecture and craftsmanship of the Hawaiian people.
The palace also has a museum that’s open to the public and houses historical memorabilia.
If you love history, then visiting Iolani Palace is a must.
2. Waikele Premium Outlets
Longing for a day where you can just shop ’til you drop? Look no further than Waikele Premium Outlets.
With over 50 stores, this outlet is the ultimate destination for any shopper looking to indulge in an afternoon or day out.
With everything from name-brand apparel to unique finds like collectibles, Waikele Premium Outlets has got you covered.
3. Visit the Bishop Museum
There are several museums in Oahu that are worth visiting, and the Bishop Museum is one of them.
Housing the largest collection of Polynesian artifacts on Earth, there’s a lot of interesting exhibits that will keep you entertained for hours.
The museum also has a planetarium and a science adventure center that are both worth checking out.
The Bishop Museum is a must-see for any history buff.
4. Check Out Marine Life at Waikiki Aquarium
Located about a 15-minute walk from Waikiki Beach, the Waikiki Aquarium is one of the best places to learn about marine life.
It has over 3000 different species of sea creatures and many exhibitions on Hawaii’s native underwater environment.
The Waikiki Aquarium also offers a variety of fun activities, including hands-on touch tanks as well as interactive presentations on various topics such as Hawaii’s coral reefs.
The aquarium also hosts educational programs for schools and families throughout the year in order to help better understand environmental awareness.
5. Relax at Moana Lani Spa
You deserve to make time for yourself and Moana Lani Spa is the perfect place to spend a rainy day in total relaxation.
Expertly trained professionals will take care of you and provide a rejuvenating experience for your mind, body and spirit.
With its elegant atmosphere, this full-service spa provides guests with a unique atmosphere that welcomes them into an oasis of tranquility.
6. Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum
Located on Ford Island, Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum is a non-profit organization that pays tribute to the men and women who served in the United States armed forces.
The museum houses a collection of historic and vintage aircrafts from World War II, including the Douglas SBD Dauntless, the F4F-3 Wildcat and the Curtiss P-40E Warhawk.
There are also educational displays that teach visitors about aviation history and developments.
A visit to Oahu is incomplete without visiting Pearl Harbor!
7. Ala Moana Center
Ala Moana Center is the largest open-air shopping center in the world and is located about a 20-minute walk from Waikiki Beach.
Home to more than 350 stores and restaurants, its size and diversity of shops have made it a favorite destination for people looking for an alternative place to spend time in Hawaii’s capital city.
This center includes upscale shops like Louis Vuitton, Prada, Giorgio Armani & Salvatore Ferragamo, as well as popular clothing chains such as ZARA and Abercrombie & Fitch.
8. Honolulu Museum of Art
The Honolulu Museum of Art is one of the most important art museums in the United States and the largest museum of Asian art in North America.
This museum features a variety of permanent, traveling and special exhibitions on Hawaii’s art history as well as its contemporary art.
The Honolulu Museum of Art was founded by Anna Rice Cooke to preserve Hawaiian culture and serves as a catalyst for creativity through dynamic art exhibitions.
9. USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park
The USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park provides a glimpse into the world of naval and military history.
The submarine was commissioned in May 1943 and served during the WWII era.
For all its history, USS Bowfin has been involved in many significant events throughout the war, being responsible for sinking 16 enemy vessels between 1943 and 1945.
The highlight of the tour is climbing aboard the ship and taking a guided tour of the sub.
10. Na Ho‘ola Spa
Fill your downtime with a pampering experience at Na Ho‘ola Spa.
Na Ho‘ola Spa offers guests the chance to be treated like royalty from start to finish. From the moment you walk through their doors until the time you leave, they’ll take care of you from head to toe!
The facility is clean and beautiful, offering an array of services to help your stress melt away.
It’s a refreshing escape that leaves your mind at ease and your body looking radiant.
11. Go Shopping at Kahala Mall
Venture out to the east coast of Oahu and go shopping for the afternoon.
Located in a beachfront neighborhood, Kahala Mall is a sprawling shopping mall that has over 100 local stores and restaurants.
The mall is a great place to go if you need to buy souvenirs, jewelry, clothing and other trinkets.
12. US Army Museum of Hawaii
The US Army Museum of Hawaii is a military museum that pays tribute to the history of the American armed forces and the role they played in protecting Hawaii.
The museum’s exhibits cover a wide range of topics, including military campaigns, weapons, and uniforms worn by soldiers from different periods.
There are also displays that feature memorabilia from past wars, such as World War II and the Vietnam War.
Admission is completely free, but donations are appreciated!
13. Royal Hawaiian Center
Located in the heart of Waikiki, the Royal Hawaiian Center is one of the most popular shopping centers in all of Honolulu.
It’s known for its upscale selection and variety, with an assortment of international retailers that offer everything from jewelry to clothes, as well as high-end shops like Ferragamo.
It’s the perfect place to spend time when it’s raining outside.
14. Laie Hawaii Temple
The Laie Hawaii Temple is a temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), and the first of its kind to be built outside the contiguous United States.
Often dubbed the Taj Mahal of the Pacific, the grounds are just as breathtaking as the unique gleaming white building itself.
The Visitors’ Center and Family History Center are open to the general public; however, the temple is restricted to Church members.
15. Queen Emma’s Summer Palace
Queen Emma’s Summer Palace was built in 1874 and served as a retreat for Queen Emma, the wife of King Kamehameha IV.
The palace is a popular tourist attraction and museum, and contains many interesting exhibits and artifacts.
The grounds are surrounded by beautiful gardens that feature many tropical plants and flowers native to the islands.
16. Watch a Show at Diamond Head Theatre
The Diamond Head Theatre is a historic landmark that has operated since the early 19th century and is Hawaii’s oldest theater for the performing arts.
The third-longest continually running theater to exist in the USA, this “Broadway of the Pacific” is a popular venue for plays, musicals, concerts and other performances.
17. Pearlridge Center
Pearlridge Center is a great place to shop and dine. Being Hawaii’s largest indoor mall, the 170 shops are sure to satisfy any shopper’s appetite.
It has everything from local boutiques to the latest fashion brands, all under one roof.
