Where is Oahu, Hawaii, USA

Written and fact-checked by | Updated On: February 09, 2026 06:15 AM ET

Oahu is located in the Hawaiian Islands in the central Pacific Ocean, between Kauai and Molokai. It lies near Lanai and is situated at approximately 21.4389° N latitude and 158.0001° W longitude.

Oahu Location Map

Where is Oahu

Google Map of Oahu, Hawaii, United States

About Oahu

Oahu is located in the Hawaiian Islands in the central Pacific Ocean and is part of the U.S. state of Hawaii. The island sits between the islands of Kauai to the northwest and Molokai to the east, surrounded by the Pacific Ocean.

Geographically, Oahu is situated at approximately 21.4389° North latitude and 158.0001° West longitude. It is home to Honolulu, the capital and largest city of Hawaii, and serves as the main transportation and economic hub of the state. Nearby locations include Molokai to the east, Kauai to the northwest, and the smaller island of Lanai to the southeast.

According to recent U.S. Census data, Oahu has a population of over 1 million people, making it the most populated island in Hawaii. The island covers a total land area of about 597 square miles (1,545 square kilometers).

Oahu is best known for its mix of urban life, beaches, and historic landmarks. Popular attractions include Waikiki Beach, Pearl Harbor, Diamond Head, the North Shore, and Hanauma Bay, making Oahu a major destination for tourism, culture, and business.

Oahu Island Facts

Island NameOahu
Native NamesʻOʻahu (Hawaiian)
CountryUnited States of America
ContinentNorth America
StateHawaii
CountyHonolulu County (City and County of Honolulu)
LocationPacific Ocean, central Hawaiian Islands
CoordinatesApprox. 21.48° N, 157.96° W
AreaApproximately 597 sq mi (1,545 Sq Km)
LengthAbout 44 miles (71 km)
WidthAbout 30 miles (48 km)
Highest PointMount Kaʻala - 4,025 ft (1,227 m)
PopulationApprox. 1,000,000+ residents
Administrative StatusIsland of the State of Hawaii
OwnershipState of Hawaii, private, and federal lands
CurrencyUnited States Dollar (USD)
Calling / Area Code808
ZIP Code968xx series
Time ZoneHawaii-Aleutian Time Zone - UTC -10 (no daylight saving)
ClimateTropical climate with trade winds
GeographyVolcanic mountain ranges, beaches, valleys, coral reefs
Famous LandmarkDiamond Head, Pearl Harbor, Waikīkī Beach
Flora & FaunaTropical forests, native birds, coral reef ecosystems
Tourist ActivitiesSurfing, hiking, snorkeling, sightseeing, cultural tours
AccessDaniel K. Inouye International Airport, cruise ships, ferries
Famous ForMost populated Hawaiian island, Honolulu, beaches, surfing, history

Attractions in Oahu, Hawaii

  • Waikiki Beach - World-famous beach known for golden sands, surfing, resorts, shopping, and nightlife.
  • Diamond Head Crater - Iconic volcanic landmark featuring a popular hiking trail and panoramic Honolulu views.
  • Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve - Protected marine bay renowned for snorkeling, coral reefs, and tropical fish.
  • Pearl Harbor National Memorial - Historic World War II site that includes the USS Arizona Memorial.
  • North Shore - Legendary coastline famous for massive winter waves, surf culture, and beach towns.
  • Nuʻuanu Pali Lookout - Scenic mountain viewpoint offering dramatic cliffs and sweeping coastal views.
  • Waimea Valley - Lush cultural valley featuring waterfalls, botanical gardens, and Hawaiian history.
  • Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail - Paved coastal hike with stunning ocean vistas and seasonal whale watching.
  • Lanikai Beach - Pristine beach known for powdery white sand, calm turquoise waters, and island views.
  • Polynesian Cultural Center - Interactive attraction showcasing Polynesian cultures, villages, performances, and luaus.

Distance from Oahu to Hawaii Cities

  • Honolulu, Oahu - 0 km (0 miles)
  • Hilo, Hawaii Island - 350 km (217 miles)
  • Kailua-Kona, Hawaii Island - 270 km (168 miles)
  • Kahului, Maui - 160 km (99 miles)
  • Wailuku, Maui - 165 km (103 miles)
  • Lahaina, Maui - 150 km (93 miles)
  • Kapolei, Oahu - 30 km (19 miles)
  • Kaneohe, Oahu - 20 km (12 miles)
  • Mililani, Oahu - 25 km (16 miles)
  • Pearl City, Oahu - 15 km (9 miles)