As a resident of the beautiful island of O’ahu, I am excited to share with you the 20 best things to do on O’ahu in October. A shoulder month in the tourist season opens up lots of opportunities for fun and value.
October is a unique month here, bringing with it mild weather, smaller crowds, and a wide range of activities to indulge in. From touring the North Shore to hiking the picturesque trails, there are plenty of things to do.
Let me guide you through everything you need to know about the best things to do in October.
Weather On O’ahu In October
If you’re considering a trip to O’ahu in October, it’s a great time to go!
O’ahu like all of Hawaii, has a tropical climate, which means the weather can change depending on where you are on the island. October marks the beginning of the rainy season, which goes until April, but the weather is still on the drier side compared to the wetter months later on.
Here’s what you can typically expect for weather in O’ahu in October:
Temperature: Nights are pretty comfortable, averaging 73°F (23°C), and the days warm up to around 84°F (29°C).
Rainfall: Even though October is the beginning of the rainy season, the rain isn’t usually too heavy or non-stop. On average, October gets about 2.3 inches (58.4 mm) of rain. Just a heads up, the eastern side of the island usually gets more rain than the western side.
Humidity: The humidity in October is relatively high, usually between 60-80%.
Ocean Temperature: The ocean is nice and warm, around 79°F (26°C), which is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or any other water activities.
Wind: The trade winds, which are usually pretty strong, tend to be weaker in October, and the wind can come from different directions.
So, all in all, October is still a fantastic month to visit O’ahu because the weather is relatively mild, and there are fewer tourists compared to the busy summer months. Just be ready for a bit of rain, especially if you plan on staying on the eastern side of the island. And don’t forget to pack a light rain jacket!
The early part of October is especially nice because the weather is still warm and sunny, and there are fewer tourists before the peak season kicks off in November.
Temperature On O’ahu In October
Thinking of the weather, here’s a more detailed breakdown of the temperature and other key metrics:
Average high temperature: 84°F (29°C)
Average low temperature: 75°F (24°C)
Average humidity: 75%
Average rainfall: 10 days
Chance of rain: 30%
Best Things To Do On O’ahu In October
Celebrating Halloween On Oahu
Celebrating Halloween on O’ahu is a unique and fun experience. The island embraces the spooky season with a variety of events and activities for all ages. From family-friendly events like pumpkin patches and trick-or-treating in shopping centers, to haunted houses and ghost tours for those looking for a good scare, there’s something for everyone.
The famous Waikiki strip is known for its annual Halloween block party, where both locals and tourists don their most creative costumes and celebrate with live music, food, and drinks. Additionally, many hotels and resorts host their own Halloween parties and events. Overall, Halloween on O’ahu offers a mix of traditional festivities with a tropical twist, making it a memorable experience for residents and visitors alike.
Ghost Tours On Oahu
There are several ghost tours offered on Oahu that take you to some of the island’s most haunted places. These tours are a great way to learn about the island’s history and folklore. Some of the most popular ghost tours include the Honolulu Haunts & Hauntings Ghost Tour, the Waikiki Night Marchers Ghost Tour, and the Haunted Historical Waikiki Ghost Tour.
Fall Harvest Festivals On Oahu
There are several pumpkin patches on Oahu where you can pick your own pumpkin. Some of the most popular pumpkin patches include the Dole Plantation Pumpkin Patch, the Waimea Valley Pumpkin Patch, and the Waimānalo Country Farms Fall Harvest.
Costume Contests On Oahu
There are many costume parties held on Oahu throughout the month of October. These parties are a great way to dress up and have some fun. Some of the most popular costume parties include the Hallowbaloo Festival, the Haunted Plantation Masquerade Ball, and the Halloween Bash at the Royal Hawaiian Hotel.
Hawai’i Food And Wine Festival
The Hawaii Food and Wine Festival is a super exciting event for anyone who loves food and wants to learn more about Hawaiian culture. It’s not just a one-day thing; it actually takes place over several weeks and includes loads of different events all over Hawaii, not just on O’ahu. Top chefs, sommeliers, and winemakers from all over the world come to participate and share their knowledge and skills.
You can go to cooking demonstrations, wine tastings, and special dinners where you get to taste amazing dishes prepared by famous chefs. Plus, it’s not just about having fun and eating great food; the festival also raises money for important causes like supporting local farmers, culinary education, and sustainability.
Best Attractions On O’ahu In October
Attend A Luau
A luau is a traditional Hawaiian party that includes a feast, music, and dancing. When you attend a luau on O’ahu, you’ll get to taste delicious Hawaiian foods, watch performances of hula and fire dancing, and learn about Hawaiian culture and history.
See my complete list of luaus for the entire State of Hawai’i here which is broken down by island.
Go On A Zipline
Ziplining on O’ahu is an exhilarating adventure where you’ll get strapped into a harness and zip along cables strung between trees or poles. It’s a fun way to see the island’s stunning scenery from a different perspective, and it’s a must-do for thrill-seekers!
I have personally done the Climb Works course but here is a list of several zipline operations on O’ahu.
Go Deep Sea Fishing
Head out into the open ocean for a day of deep-sea fishing off the coast of O’ahu. You’ll have the chance to catch big game fish like marlin, tuna, and mahi-mahi, and enjoy a day on the water surrounded by beautiful views.
Here is a top-rated operator on O’ahu.
Take A Sunset Sail
Enjoy a relaxing evening sailing along the coast of O’ahu while watching the sunset. It’s a peaceful and romantic way to end your day and take in the breathtaking scenery of the island. Many launch directly from the shore while others require advanced reservations, I always recommend reservations for any activity if possible.
Visit Waimea Valley
Waimea Valley is a historic and culturally significant area on the North Shore of O’ahu. You can take a walk through the botanical gardens, visit the waterfall, and learn about the history and traditions of the Hawaiian people.
I volunteered here over the summer and had a great experience that also got me access to the park for free, a great way to give back during your vacation.
Tour Iolani Palace
Iolani Palace is the only royal palace in the United States. Take a tour and learn about the history of the Hawaiian monarchy, see beautiful Hawaiian artifacts, and explore the well-preserved rooms of the palace.
Take Helicopter Tour
A helicopter tour is an unforgettable way to see O’ahu. You’ll fly over the island’s famous landmarks, like Diamond Head, Pearl Harbor, and the North Shore, and get a bird’s-eye view of its breathtaking scenery.
Do A Circle Island Tour
A circle island tour is a great way to see all the highlights of O’ahu in one day. You’ll visit famous spots like the Dole Plantation, the North Shore, and Hanauma Bay, and learn about the island’s history and culture along the way.
I have an article about one tour operator that was rated best in the world by TripAdvisor, high praise indeed.
Visit Foster Botanical Garden
Foster Botanical Garden is a peaceful oasis in the middle of Honolulu. You can take a leisurely stroll through the gardens, see a wide variety of tropical plants, and enjoy a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Many of the botanical gardens on O’ahu made my list of free and cheap things to do when on O’ahu.
Hike Diamond Head
Diamond Head is one of the most famous landmarks on O’ahu. The hike to the top is challenging but rewarding, with stunning views of Honolulu and the ocean. It’s a must-do activity for anyone visiting O’ahu.
If you’re the outdoors type, make sure to check out my list of the best waterfall hikes on O’ahu, these are sure to blow your mind and are a great activity to explore the Hawaiian landscapes that O’ahu has to offer.
FAQ For Things To Do On O’ahu In October
Is October a good time to go to O’ahu?
Yes, The weather is generally pleasant, with slightly cooler temperatures compared to the peak summer months. Tourist numbers start to wane, so popular spots may be less crowded.
Is October a good time of year to visit Hawai’i?
Yes, Across the islands, the weather remains relatively warm, making it ideal for beach activities and exploring. There are numerous cultural events and festivals that occur in the fall, offering visitors a unique glimpse into Hawaiian culture.
How rainy is O’ahu in October?
O’ahu experiences occasional rain showers in October, but it’s generally not the rainiest month. The Hawaiian Islands have a diverse microclimate, and while some areas might experience rain, others might be sunny. These showers are often brief and localized, so it’s easy to find a sunny spot or to wait out a brief shower.
Can you swim around O’ahu in October?
Yes, you can swim around O’ahu in October. The ocean temperatures are still warm from the summer months, making it comfortable for swimming. The waves on the North Shore start to pick up, offering opportunities for those interested in surfing or watching surfers. u003cstrongu003eIf you are unsure ask a lifeguard before entering the water. u003c/strongu003e
Is October hurricane season on O’ahu?
October is within the tail end of the hurricane season for O’ahu, which runs from June through November. While hurricanes are relatively rare, the possibility exists, so it’s wise to monitor weather updates if traveling during this period. The majority of hurricanes or tropical storms that do form in the Pacific tend to veer away or dissipate before reaching Hawai’i, but it’s always good to be informed.
Why is Hawai’i cheap in October?
Hawai’i is often cheaper in October because it’s a shoulder season, falling between the summer and winter tourist peaks, leading to lower demand. With schools in session, there’s a decrease in family travel, leading to a drop in demand for accommodations and activities. Airlines and hotels might offer special deals or lower rates to attract tourists during this lull, making it a cost-effective time to visit.
Final Thoughts
Traveling to O’ahu in October is a smart move in my opinion because the shoulder months provide so much value. With schools back in session, mild weather, and lots of things going on you would be hard pressed to pick another month just as good.
