10 Things to Do in Oahu in November

As one of the most diverse and populous of the Hawaiian Islands, Oahu definitely has a lot to offer travellers. The month of November has a particular charm, as it combines pleasant weather with waters conducive to various activities such as surfing, snorkelling and nightly festivals. All this, with the advantage of avoiding long queues and waiting times.

November is also a time to celebrate Thanksgiving , so why not experience it on the island? Check out what's in store for you on Oahu in November and you won't regret it.

Every surfer knows it. Oahu is the birthplace of surfing and is still the world's most famous surfing destination.

One of the most attractive spots for surfers is the island's northern coastline. Here, waves reach up to 15 metres in season, attracting thousands of surfers every year in search of the perfect wave.

The "Mecca of surfing", as it is also called, hosts world competitions such as the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing. This one-of-a-kind international event consists of three competitions on different beaches in the north of the island and starts in November.

If you want to see how these experienced athletes show their talent and bravery you can attend the different beaches of the event. It is recommended that you take a few things into account like the ones I leave you here.

If you want to get a closer look at the surfing season, why not? You can also go surfing. As I said, if you're an experienced surfer and you dare to "tame" the big waves that dominate this season, you can go to the beaches on the north shore. But if you're a first-time surfer, don't worry! On an island with around 100 surfing spots, there are plenty of options for all levels.

As a beginner you'll want to head to the south shores, and one place in particular is the Waikiki area. Not only will you find yourself surrounded by beautiful views that will make the visit alone worthwhile, but there are plenty of instructors available to introduce you to the world of surfing.

Come and learn the basics of the sport at Waikiki Beach with the originators of surfing.

At this time of year, the best snorkelling conditions on Oahu are on the east and south sides of the island. One such site is the Hanauma Bay Nature Reserve. In the bay, in addition to calm currents, you'll avoid long lines and crowds in November.

Also, one of the main reasons why this bay is unique for snorkelling in Oahu is that you don't need to be the best swimmer to explore the underwater world. The crystal clear water is usually very calm and there's plenty of wildlife to be found among the large coral reefs. Turtles, jellyfish and colourful fish will be the stars of the show and, speaking of fish, you might come across the Hawaiian fish famous for having the longest name: the "lauwiliwilinukunuku'oi'oi", or if you want it easier, I'll just say "butterfly fish".

Remember that corals are part of delicate ecosystems that need to be protected. Always make your visit taking into account all the safety and preservation measures of the place, as well as informing yourself about the weather conditions, which although they are usually suitable, nature can always surprise you.

A highly recommended activity for anyone, whether you are a beginner or an expert. If you enjoy exploring living underwater treasures, you can't miss it!

As in other U.S. states, Thanksgiving in Hawaii is as traditional as it is unique.

On Oahu, one of the most impressive parties is held at Paradise Cove on Ewa Beach in the south of the island. This holiday is what is known as a "luau" which is a combination of entertainment and Hawaiian culture to be enjoyed in company.

Join competitions in traditional games and enjoy dancing and live music under the night sky while sipping a delicious Mai Tai cocktail. It's definitely a must-see spectacle to make your night of thanksgiving unforgettable.

Turkey Trot is a race held at various venues in Hawaii (including Oahu) during the Thanksgiving holiday. After busy nights and hearty feasts, it's a great way to burn calories, but with extra discipline and perseverance.

The funny thing about this race is that the winners are not the first to reach the finish line, but whoever predicts their finish time most accurately wins. So, you may not get too tired, but if you want to come back with a prize, you'll have to be as focused as possible.

And as in all sports, the idea is to test your abilities and enjoy the experience. If you get up early that day to go running (and do the maths in your head) it's because you know you're in for a relaxed and fun morning.

The Turkey Trot is free to attend as a member of the public, but runners must register in advance. More information can be found on their website.

Pearl Harbor Naval Base is one of those places that every visitor to the island of Oahu must visit, and even more so if you are an American visitor. This national historic monument is openall year round, however, as I said, November is a particularly good month to avoid the crowds.

Millions of visitors from all over the world come to see the place where World War II began for the United States. It is a place of reflection, admiration and respect for the pain. A tour that, while not for fun, is an educational experience worth including in your agenda.

A visitor centre, two museums and the USS Arizona Memorial built on the sunken ship where the remains of more than a thousand soldiers lie are part of the tour.

Pearl Harbor is located off the coast of Honolulu, south of Oahu.

The Waikiki Celebration Parade is held on the Friday after Thanksgiving atWaikiki Beach on the southern tip of the island.

Originally designed to commemorate the survivors and veterans of the Pearl Harbor attacks, today you'll enjoy full stagings of Polynesian and American cultural music and dances that join the marching military bands.

The event is free to attend. The route is along Kalakahua Avenue, from Fort DeRussy Park to Kapiolani Park. Be one of the thousands who attend this great celebration!

Popular with visitors and residents alike, the Waikiki Beach Walk is a unique shopping district offering a wide range of entertainment, dining and other shopping venues in the Waikiki area of Honolulu, South Oahu.

The Waikiki Beach Walk is an open-air walking track for long walks. You can go for a jog or walk your pet in the morning or set aside an entire afternoon for shopping. In addition, free cultural and entertainment events are regularly scheduled in the common areas. You can check the agenda here.

Walking the circuit in the month of November is most enjoyable, the cool weather and brisk shopping will make the most of your day.

This place has it all! And for all tastes and budgets. Take a stroll and you'll see for yourself.

This long-running festival is a premier art film event that today welcomes several thousand enthusiasts and creatives from the island, the United States and other countries around the world. The festival promotes the work of new creators, who are here to show and educate about realities and fantasies while testing the emotions of the viewer.

If you are visiting Oahu in November and want to get to know the "big screen" productions being made in this part of the world, the Hawaii International Film Festival is an excellent choice! An appointment with creators, critics and unforeseen emotions that you can take advantage of for a very special afternoon.

You can consult the selected works, venues and all the events here.

You've almost always heard this about any tourist destination, but seriously, what you taste in Hawaii you'll never taste again anywhere. Make the most of the Food and Wine Festival and you're bound to love it.

And what makes Hawaii's cuisine so unique? For one thing, history. The cultural history of the Hawaiian Islands has had several episodes where Asians, Europeans and Americans have left their mark. Thus, you can see the Japanese influence that persists in their preparations (mainly fish), but also the Portuguese (very noticeable in sweet dishes) and American (use of cereals) cultures that add spice to the region. Of course, this has to do not only with history, the flora and fauna present in these islands undoubtedly contribute greatly to its exotic and delicious gastronomy of worldwide recognition.

In November you can enjoy the week-long Food and Wine Festival on Oahu, where you'll forget all about dieting. The festival attracts chefs and culinary masters from Hawaii and around the world, who invite you to wine and craft beer tastings , cooking demonstrations and, of course, dishes specially prepared for you.

Give yourself a chance to taste!

November is one of the best times of the year to visit Oahu if you want nice weather for lots of activities and, why not, for your wallet.

Temperatures in this month start to drop (slightly) to an average of 26 degrees Celsius (with cooler nights). Also, the likelihood of rain increases as winter arrives and you have to consider this. Most of the rain occurs at night and, if for some reason you get a sudden downpour in the afternoon, don't worry! A jacket and an umbrella will keep it under control.

As well as the temperature, prices for transport and accommodation to visit this remote island are reduced in November, giving you the opportunity to have more options to see and enjoy this beautiful destination in a less crowded environment.