Are you thinking about planning a trip to Oahu in November? Find out some of the best things to do in Oahu in November that are worth adding to your itinerary!
This list of things to do in Oahu in November was written by Hawaii travel expert Marcie Cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, I may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog
Taking a trip to Oahu in November is a fabulous way to escape the chilly weather. Planning to visit Oahu in November, almost ensures a fantastic vacation.
There are so many wonderful things to do in Oahu in November. Whether you choose to attend one of their events, celebrate Thanksgiving in Hawaii, or soak up some sun on the beach, your vacation will be memorable.
The great news is that the Oahu weather in November is usually a lot warmer than in other locations across the world. This means that you can enjoy an adventure away from the colder climates so you can enjoy a Hawaiian vacation during Thanksgiving week!
Don’t have time to read a bunch of Hawaii blog posts and reviews? Here are some of our top picks for visiting Oahu.
Popular Oahu Tours/Activities
- Kualoa Ranch UTV Tour (this is a fun adventure with the prettiest views)
- Full Pearl Harbor Tour (this is the BEST way to do everything at Pearl Harbor)
- Hawaii Bucket List Tour (you get to pick where you stop on this custom Oahu Circle Island tour)
- Toa Luau (this is my all-time favorite Oahu luau)
- CLIMB Works Ziplining (this is the longest zipline on Oahu)
- Book a Photo Shoot (this is a Hawaii souvenir you’ll treasure forever)
Favorite Oahu Resorts/Hotels
- Hilton Hawaiian Village (this is our favorite Waikiki resort because of the amazing pool area and nearby restaurants)
- Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa (this is a splurge that is totally worth it)
- Royal Hawaiian Hotel (this is a luxury resort in Waikiki that is pink and gorgeous)
Want to Rent a Car in Hawaii?
One of the best places to rent a car in Hawaii is Discount Hawaii Car Rental because they get the best rates from top national companies like Alamo, Dollar, Thrifty, Avis, Enterprise, Budget, and Payless.
Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Oahu Itinerary complete with daily schedules, kid-friendly activities, and travel hacks? Click the button below.
Oahu Weather in November
The weather in Oahu in November is typically warm. However, it is critical to take into account that November in Oahu can be very rainy. It is probably best to pack some rain apparel to take with you to Oahu since it is the rainy season.
While the vast majority of the rain falls throughout the evening hours, it is very possible that it can rain through the day. It is important to be prepared.
The trade winds on Oahu in November are much stronger. These stronger winds create higher waves, making them perfect for surfing when you visit Hawaii.
The average rainfall during November on Oahu is between 2 to 5 inches. While it is the rainy season, you won’t find too much rain as it is pretty sporadic and a lot less than lots of states on the Mainland. You might see a few rain showers amidst the warm weather but they won’t last very long.
Temperature in Hawaii in November
The average temperature in Oahu in November is typically warm. It is a good idea though, to pack a light sweater just in case since it is the winter season.
The average high temperature in Oahu in November predicts daytime highs of 84 degrees Fahrenheit. The average low temperature is approximately 70 degrees throughout the evening.
Weather in Oahu in November
The Honolulu Weather in November is sunny and warm. The sun is still out for about 7 hours a day, so you can still enjoy a beach vacation when you visit Hawaii.
Oahu is a gorgeous location to visit during the month of November. Make sure to pack some light sweaters and rain gear. You will be better off if you are ready for any possible weather.
For more information check out What’s it like to Visit Hawaii in the Fall?
Things to do in Oahu in November
Spending November in Hawaii is a fantastic choice to escape the cold weather.
There are so many fun and exciting events taking place in Oahu in November, so make sure to book your vacation today.
There are several events in November in Oahu. Whether you take in a Waikiki Holiday Parade, spend Thanksgiving on Oahu, or have a great Honolulu Thanksgiving, you are sure to enjoy yourself.
Thanksgiving in Oahu
There are several events taking place on Oahu for Thanksgiving. No matter what you participate in, there are so many exciting ways to celebrate Turkey Day on the island.
Oahu Thanksgiving Luau
Thanksgiving is a great time to attend an amazing Luau. Check out Paradise Cove. They put on a full production complete with entertainment and activities that are fun for everyone.
At this amazing Thanksgiving Luau, you will watch a Kalua Pork Imu Ceremony taking place. You can even play traditional Hawaiian games, listen to live music, and more.
Annual Turkey Trot
Taking place on Thanksgiving morning, this annual turkey trot is a great way to burn some calories before you indulge in a delicious meal.
Take a 10-mile run around Kapiolani Park and more. Don’t want to run? There is also a 5K walk available. Take part in this fun tradition and have a chance at winning some great prizes.
Check out the Turkey Trot Website for information.
Sunset Thanksgiving Dinner Tours
There are several different Thanksgiving dinner tours that can be taken on the island. You can see the most gorgeous sights by taking one of these tours. Most of these tours have delicious meals provided along with drinks and more.
Check out the wide variety of Thanksgiving Dinner Tours and choose the one that works best for you.
Visit How to Visit Hawaii at Thanksgiving for more.
Book a Family Photo Shoot
Whenever we travel to Hawaii, we almost always book a family photo shoot with Flytographer. They are super easy, affordable, AND it guarantees that I’ll be in some photos. You can get $25 off if you book through this link or use the code HAWAIITRAVEL.
Waikiki Holiday Parade
The Waikiki Holiday Parade memorializes the anniversary of the attacks on Pearl Harbor as well as honors the Survivors. The aim of this event is to educate people on preserving Polynesian culture as well as this important piece of U.S. History.
The Waikiki Holiday Parade also welcomes the Holiday Season for the locals. This entire week of performances and events, as well as the months of getting ready, give students a fantastic learning experience.
Residents, visitors, and more gather from all over on the Friday after Thanksgiving to watch the parade. You will see marching bands, local bands, service bands, military units, and more.
There will also be Pearl Habor survivors, local officials, dignitaries, and more in attendance.
Visit the Waikiki Holiday Parade website for more information.
Annual Hawaii Food & Wine Festival
This amazing event takes place in various locations all across Oahu. Here you will enjoy some delicious local cuisine, fine wine, and exciting events hosted by some culinary legends.
If you are a foodie, you aren’t going to want to miss this exciting festival. Visit the Hawaii Food & Wine Festival Schedule for details.
Triple Crown of Surfing
Hawaii in November has the perfect conditions for surfing! Even if you don’t want to surf during your November trip, at least you can watch some professional surfers during the Triple Crown of Surfing events.
These take place on the North Shore of Oahu during this month and the winter months.
It is one of the fun outdoor activities you won’t find during the summer months!
Learn more about the Triple Crown of Surfing.
Makahiki Festival
At Waimea Valley, you can participate in the Makahiki Festival. This celebrates the Hawaiian New Year with tons of Hawaiian games, food, live music, and so much more.
You will even see some traditional Polynesian sports competitions too!
Check out more information here.
Top 10 Oahu Attractions in November
Visiting Oahu in November is a great experience for everyone. There are so many great things to do, the weather is spectacular and the sights are breathtaking. You are sure to enjoy a visit to Honolulu in November.
Many of these activities are great year-round, but you will definitely enjoy them when visiting Hawaii in November.
1. Visit the Kaneohe Bay Sandbar
Located just off the shores of Oahu, this beautiful sandbar is one of the most interesting places to visit.
The Kaneohe Bay Sandbar is one of the largest saltwater sandbars in the entire world. It stretches 6 miles long and is the only one of its kind in Hawaii.
The Ko’olau mountains are located in the distance, creating an amazing backdrop. You can see beautiful coral reefs, fish, and more at this location.
This gorgeous place is one of Oahu’s best-kept secrets.
2. The Koko Crater Railway Trail
There are so many great hiking trails that can be taken in Oahu, this one is best known for being an incredibly unique climb. This steep climb up an old abandoned railroad track is a great experience for everyone.
With over 1000 steps up to the top, you will want to ensure that you have some good walking shoes. Once you reach the summit you will take in some amazing panoramic views. It is totally worth the work.
3. Hanauma Bay State Park
This protected marine life conservation area and underwater park is a must-visit for the entire family. Here you will have the opportunity to experience marine life in their natural habitat.
The waters of Hanauma Bay are gorgeous and clear and offer a diverse ecosystem of many different species of marine life. Located inside the cone of an ancient volcano, you can enjoy a snorkeling adventure and more.
You are going to want to make time to explore Hanauma Bay State Park.
4. Bishop Museum
This gorgeous museum offers up an incredible assortment of interactive displays and exhibits. Most are geared specifically toward children.
Learn about the vibrant culture and heritage of the people of Hawaii at the Bishop Museum. It is also home to the first-ever planetarium in Polynesia.
This is one of the coolest places to visit in Oahu with Kids, especially if you visit when there are a few rain showers.
5. Waikiki Aquarium
The Waikiki Aquarium is the second oldest aquarium in the country that is available to the public. They have several engaging, colorful exhibits that are sure to keep everyone entertained.
Here you can see several different species of Hawaiian Marine life. You are sure to enjoy your trip to this wonderful aquarium. See the Bluefin trevally, Zebra Sharks, Green Sea Turtles, and more.
6. Laniakea Beach
Located on the North Shore of Oahu, Laniakea Beach is a must-visit in Oahu. Also known as Turtle Beach, it is home to giant green sea turtles.
This is a quiet escape for the entire family where you can enjoy swimming, surfing, snorkeling, and more.
Work on your tan in the powdery sand, cool off under a towering palm tree or have a delicious picnic on the 300-yard stretch of sand on the left side of the beach.
If you are visiting Hawaii in November, you can see these beautiful creatures without the usual crowds. It is a Hawaii experience you don’t want to miss.
7. Kuilima Cove
Kuilima Cove offers several chances for an amazing snorkeling adventure. This well-protected cove is great for beginners or young children that want to go for a swim.
The serene waters, well-kept shoreline, and calm waves are surrounded by a natural rock barrier that protects the area from strong currents.
This is a great, relaxing place to visit. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy an amazing day at Kulima Cove.
Snorkeling is another one of the top vacation activities, and this location offers pristine coral reefs in the Pacific Ocean you will love to explore.
8. Go Surfing
November in Oahu offers several chances to go surfing, take lessons or observe some surfing pros taking on the waves.
No matter what you choose to do, you are sure to have a blast. Take lessons at one of the many different surf schools. You can choose to take private lessons, group lessons, and more.
Make sure to pack your reef-friendly sunscreen before you dive in.
9. Glass Bottom Boat Tours
Want to get a first-class look at Hawaii’s sea life without having to get wet? This is the excursion for you. A Glass Bottom Boat Tour is sure to impress everyone aboard.
Keep your eyes on the floor below as you take in some gorgeous views. You will see schools of fish, the region’s famous green sea turtles, dolphins, and more.
A Glass Bottom Boat Tour is another one of the top Oahu experiences to have!
10. Visit Secret Island Beach
The Secret Island Beach is located at the Kualoa Ranch. Not only is it a stunning place to visit, but it is a great place to relax and enjoy the amazing weather in Oahu.
You can participate in water sports, play in the sand or take a dip in the water. Go kayaking, canoeing, play volleyball or ping pong or simply have a picnic. You can even go on a glass bottom boat ride too!
The water temperature is perfect year-round and is one of the best beaches on the Hawaiian islands.
If you visit in early November, you will experience less rain and near-perfect temperatures, so it is the perfect place for tons of outdoor activities.
Oahu in November FAQs
November marks the beginning of the rainy season in Hawaii, but it is still an incredible time to visit. You will have less rain during this month as the average rainfall is only a couple of inches for the entire month. Hotel rates should be lower and there shouldn’t be as many crowds either!
Yes the ocean temperatures are perfect for swimming in November. The trade winds are stronger during this month, so some beaches have stronger waves, so be careful when you are at the beach. Waikiki Beach should still be calm to enjoy for kids and families.
Hawaii in November is beautiful. Temperatures are not as high as the summer months. Even though it is during hurricane season, you won’t see too much rain as it is not the rainiest month of the year. Plus, there are tons of local events to enjoy as well.
Oahu Hawaii in November Wrap-Up
Visiting Honolulu in November is a fantastic idea for a vacation. Whether you are spending Thanksgiving on Oahu, taking in the Waikiki Holiday Parade, or simply visiting to escape the colder weather where you are from, Oahu is gorgeous and welcoming.
There are many different things to do in Oahu in November. You are sure to create long-lasting memories on your November Hawaii getaway.