If you’re coming to Oahu for your wedding, elopement, or honeymoon… first of all, you already made an amazing choice. This island is unreal. And not just for photos—this place is meant to be experienced.


Miguel and I have explored so much of Oahu, and these are the things we genuinely love and recommend to our couples. Not the overly hyped, tourist-trap version… but the real, worth-your-time kind of experiences.





🌿 Let’s Start with Hiking (Trust me on this one)



Even if you’re “not a hiking person”… Oahu might change your mind.


Here are my favorites—from easiest to more challenging:



Two hikers wearing bucket hats smile for a selfie on a lush green tropical hiking trail.
Two hikers take a selfie on metal stairs at Diamond Head crater with panoramic Hawaii coastline views behind them.
Woman standing on a scenic mountain overlook in Hawaii, gazing at lush green valleys and ocean views under cloudy skies.


🌊 Beach Days (You really can’t go wrong)



You have to enjoy the beaches here. But not all beaches are the same depending on the season.


Summer favorites (especially North Shore):




All-time favorites:


  • Lanikai Beach – Soft sand, turquoise water… dreamy.
  • Waimanalo Beach – Honestly one of the most beautiful blues you’ll ever see.
  • Halona Cove – Small, dramatic, and super photogenic.
  • Waikiki Beach – Yes, it’s popular—but still worth experiencing at least once.


Silhouette of a surfer statue at sunset on Waikiki Beach with palm trees and ocean in the background.
Five friends take a selfie at a scenic mountain overlook in Hawaii with lush green hills and ocean views behind them.


🍽 Where to Eat (Real talk from a Latina 😅)



Okay, I’m just going to say it:


Don’t come to Hawaii to eat Mexican or Latin food.

I am Latina… and I’m telling you, it’s not the move here. Ingredients are expensive, and it’s just not the same. Save that for back home.


Instead, lean into what Oahu does really well:



Must-try:



  • Poke (my personal obsession)
  • Go to Off the Hook Poke Market — hands down one of the best.
  • Shave Ice
  • Matsumoto Shave Ice is a classic and so fun to experience.
  • Japanese food & matcha 🍵
  • The Japanese influence here is strong—and it shows. So good.
  • Korean BBQ
  • You’ll see it everywhere, and honestly? It hits every time.




Budget ideas:



$ (casual & quick):

Food trucks, poke spots, local plate lunches.


$$ (mid-range):

Casual sit-down restaurants, ramen, sushi, Korean BBQ.


$$$ (treat yourselves):

Oceanfront dining, fine dining experiences—perfect for a honeymoon dinner.


🌺 Experiences Worth Your Time

• Kualoa Ranch

Yes, it’s popular. Yes, it’s touristy. And YES—it’s worth it. The landscapes are insane.


• Pearl Harbor National Memorial

Go if you’re into history. If not, you won’t miss out by skipping it.


• Luau 🌺

Such a beautiful cultural experience. Food, dance, storytelling—it’s special.


• Snorkeling tour

Don’t just wing it—book a tour. You’ll get the best spots safely.


• Sunset cruise 🌅

One of the most romantic things you can do here. Period.


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💛 My Honest Advice


Oahu is not really a “party all night” destination.

It’s not about clubbing or going crazy.


This place is about:


• Slowing down

• Being outside

• Watching sunsets

• Going for a walk on the beach at night

• Feeling present with your person


That’s where the magic is.


⸻


Final Thought


We’ve done a lot on this island—and everything I shared here? We genuinely love.


So whether you’re here for your wedding, your honeymoon, or just a beautiful escape… I hope you experience Oahu in a way that feels meaningful, connected, and unforgettable.


And if I get to capture even a small part of that for you? That means everything to me 🤍


— Sara