Oahu, the third largest Hawaiian Island, is the most populated and visited of all the islands in the archipelago. Oahu is a melting pot of cultures, with a diverse range of people from all around the world living and working there. It is also home to some of the most stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and beautiful mountain scenery in the world. But how big is Oahu?
The Size of Oahu
Oahu is the third largest Hawaiian Island, after Hawaii and Maui. It is approximately 44 miles long and 30 miles wide, making it approximately 1,536 square miles in size. To put this into perspective, it is bigger than the state of Rhode Island, which is only 1,045 square miles. Despite its size, Oahu is the most densely populated island in the state, with a population of over one million people.
Geography of Oahu
Oahu is an incredibly diverse island with a range of climates and landscapes. The northern shore of the island is home to the world-famous North Shore, known for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and great surf. The southern part of the island is dry and arid, with a desert-like climate that can be found in the Ko’olau Range. The west side of the island consists of lush rainforest and tropical paradise, while the east side has a much more urban feel to it.
History of Oahu
Oahu has a long and fascinating history. It is thought to have been settled by Polynesians somewhere between 300AD and 600AD. The island was then occupied by the Kingdom of Hawaii until the late 18th century when it became part of the United States. During World War II, Oahu was the site of the devastating attack on Pearl Harbor, which marked the beginning of the US involvement in the Pacific War.
Attractions on Oahu
Oahu is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. It is home to some of the best beaches in the world, including Waikiki Beach and Hanauma Bay. The island also has a wide range of activities for visitors, from snorkeling and scuba diving to hiking and biking. There are also a range of cultural and historic attractions, including the Polynesian Cultural Center, the Bishop Museum, and the USS Arizona Memorial.
Oahu Accommodation and Dining
Oahu has a range of accommodation options for visitors, from luxury resorts to affordable budget hotels. The island also has an array of restaurants and cafes, serving up a range of international cuisine, as well as traditional Hawaiian dishes.
Getting to Oahu
Oahu is well connected with the rest of the world via air travel. The main airport on the island is Honolulu International Airport, which is located just outside of Honolulu. There are also a number of smaller airports on the island, including Kalaeloa Airport, which is located near the West Coast of Oahu.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is the size of Oahu?
Oahu is approximately 44 miles long and 30 miles wide, making it approximately 1,536 square miles in size.
Q2. What is the most popular beach on Oahu?
Waikiki Beach is one of the most popular beaches on Oahu. It is located in Honolulu and is known for its stunning white sand and clear waters.
Q3. What is the main airport on Oahu?
The main airport on Oahu is Honolulu International Airport, which is located just outside of Honolulu.
Q4. What type of climate can be found on Oahu?
Oahu has a range of climates, from the tropical paradise found on the west side of the island to the dry and arid climate found in the Ko’olau Range on the southern part of the island.
Q5. What kind of activities can be done on Oahu?
Oahu has a wide range of activities for visitors, from snorkeling and scuba diving to hiking and biking. There are also a range of cultural and historic attractions, including the Polynesian Cultural Center, the Bishop Museum, and the USS Arizona Memorial.
Q6. When was Oahu settled?
Oahu is thought to have been settled by Polynesians somewhere between 300AD and 600AD.
Q7. What type of accommodation is available on Oahu?
Oahu has a range of accommodation options for visitors, from luxury resorts to affordable budget hotels.
Q8. What is the population of Oahu?
Oahu has a population of over one million people.
Q9. What is the most populated island in Hawaii?
Oahu is the most densely populated island in the state of Hawaii.
Q10. What is the largest Hawaiian island?
The largest Hawaiian island is Hawaii, which is approximately 4,028 square miles in size.