Oʻahu Happenings: A Fun-Filled Guide to Events and Festivities This Summer

Get ready to ride the wave of excitement because summer on Oʻahu is full of life and cheer. With sunny beaches and vibrant culture, this is a paradise where exploring and relaxation go hand in hand. At The Twin Fin, we’re all about embracing that carefree island spirit with our laid-back vibes and a splash of playful colors — all just steps away from the beaches of Waikiki. And when it comes to exploring, you’re a stone’s throw away from all the happening events, whether they’re just around the corner or a quick drive away on the flip side of the island.

There’s so much to discover here on Oʻahu, and there’s no better place to create memories, find Hawaiian vibes, enjoy good times, and partake in authentic events. If you’re hanging with us this summer, here are some of the best events happening in Oʻahu this season.

Haleiwa Arts Festival

If you’re up for a day trip while staying at the Twin Fin, Haleiwa Beach Park is one of the most beautiful beaches on Oʻahu. Plus, it’s home to the Haleiwa Arts Festival happening this summer. 

On June 24th and 25th, the beach is where it’s at! Find over 100 talented visual artists and their stunning creations. The stage will come alive with performances of jazz, hula, cello, and more — you’ll be transported to a world where rhythm and art collide. The festival hasn’t forgotten about the little ones! Make your trip to the other side of Oʻahu a family adventure. Keiki art will be in full swing, offering young artists a place to let their creativity shine. And what’s a beach event without some tasty treats? The Ono food lineup at the Haleiwa Arts Festival is the perfect way to fuel the fun! 

Oʻahu is a thriving hub for creativity and the arts. If you’re close by, think about carving out some time and check out the Haleiwa Arts Festival. It will be a day you and your crew will remember for years to come!

Aloha Home Market Series

Immerse yourself in the vibrant local scene of Oʻahu and treat yourself to an unforgettable day at one of the charming Aloha Home Markets. These pop-up markets happen on the second Sunday of the month and have become a beloved tradition where the heart and soul of Hawaiian culture come alive. Just a quick thirty-minute drive from The Twin Fin, talented artisans and vendors offer their unique crafts, authentic souvenirs, and ono grinds (or, as you may know it, delicious food) that will leave you craving for more. 

As the summer sun shines down on the island, the bustling markets find their home on the Makai end of Uluniu Street. It’s the perfect opportunity to take in the local culture and discover hidden gems while enjoying the relaxed elegance and warm hospitality that defines the island spirit. 

Mark your calendars and prepare to embark on a joyful journey at the Aloha Home Markets.

Prince Lot Hula Festival

On July 15, under the wonderful Hawaiian sun, head to Honolulu for a day full of hula celebrations at the Prince Lot Hula Festival. Every July since 1978, the festival has brought together hula groups — natively known as Halau Hula — from around the islands to keep our Hawaiian culture alive.  

This summer, for the first time in four years, the festival will return to a public venue for you to enjoy live and in person! This free event that welcomes all will happen at the Frank F. Fasi Civic Grounds in downtown Honolulu — a short car or bus ride away from us here at The Twin Fin. 

Immerse yourself in the Hawaiian culture and soak up the good vibes with impressive hula performances. Explore the craft fair for some unique finds, witness cultural demonstrations, and treat your tastebuds to the local flavors. And at noo, groove along to the melodic tunes of the Royal Hawaiian Band’s concert. 

Kick back, relax, and take in the positive energy of the hula culture.

Paddleboard World Championships

Paddling is a part of Hawaii’s soul. It goes back to when Polynesians would navigate the vast open ocean with nothing but the light of the night and weather as their guides. And now, we’re keeping that spirit alive with the Molokai 2 Oʻahu Paddleboard World Championships, the wildest stand-up paddle race in the world. 

On July 30, soak up the traditions of paddleboarding in Hawaii and experience the thrill of watching athletes conquer the un-conquerable. Participants will start off on the island of Molokai, make their way across the 2300-foot-deep Kaʻiwi Channel, and finish off on the shores of Oʻahu. 

From Maunalua Bay Beach Park, you can set up and eagerly await the fearless athletes as they paddle across the channel. Cheer them on as you start to see them appear in the distance, and celebrate when they conquer their challenge and reach the bathhouse. What a thrilling experience! 

Duke’s OceanFest

Right in our backyard, along the sun-kissed shores of Waikiki Beach, late August marks an eagerly awaited event — Duke’s Oceanfest. Paying homage to Duke Kahanamoku, this gathering takes place on the very sands his athletic skills were honed. 

Throughout the weeklong festival from the 19th – 27th, watch local and international competitors take to the waves, revealing their remarkable skills in surfing, swimming, paddleboard racing, beach volleyball, and more. And if that’s not enough, the sports extend to a delightful sight: dogs surfing. That’s right, you can watch some furry friends catch some waves with their humans along for the ride. 

The best part? It’s all a labor of love — the festival operates as a non-profit organization in collaboration with the Duke Kahanamoku Foundation. Together, they work to provide resources and help enrich the lives of Hawaii’s scholar-athletes. 

Feel the sand between your toes and bask in the island vibes at this one-of-a-kind festival, just steps away from our island escape. 

Tiki’s Grill

For something a little more relaxed, Tiki’s Grill, located right here at The Twin Fin, offers live music and events all summer long. So no matter when you’re visiting, you know you’ll be able to sway along to some groovy melodies at the grill.

Flavors of the island, a hip and charming atmosphere, and stunning sunsets make Tiki’s Grill the perfect place to end your day. 

Make it a Twin Fin Summer

There’s so much to discover on Oʻahu this summer. If you are planning a trip to the island, now you have five events to add to your summer bucket list! Great weather, exciting events, and the perfect place to rest your head after a day of fun — sounds like paradise to us!

At The Twin Fin, we’re ready to welcome you to our retreat. Our beachside oasis is a place for people to gather, connect, and of course — check out the surfing scene. Make the most of your Waikiki beach escape and stay for a few nights so you can fit everything in — you’ll even save 25% with our Escape to Twin Fin package, or take advantage of our Weekly Stay Special and save up to 40%. The next best thing to catching a wave is watching them roll in, so start planning your escape to Hawaii and book your room at our oceanfront resort today.