Do I need a rental car for the whole week?

Not necessarily. If you plan to stay in Waikiki for the first few days, you can rent a car for just the 3-4 days you plan to explore the North and East shores to save on parking fees.

Is it safe to swim everywhere?

No. Always look for local warning signs about rip currents. If there is no lifeguard tower, be extra cautious.

One Week on Oahu: The Practical Itinerary

Spend seven days on Oahu to get the perfect mix of history, hiking, and beach time. Rent a car for at least four of those days to escape the congestion of Waikiki and see the North Shore.

Secure your transport. Book your rental car at least three weeks in advance. If you plan on staying only in Waikiki, use the 'TheBus' public transit system or Uber, but you will miss the best parts of the island.
Book your Pearl Harbor pass. Reservations for the USS Arizona Memorial open exactly 8 weeks in advance at 3:00 PM HST on Recreation.gov. They sell out in minutes; set an alarm.
Respect the land. Never touch sea turtles or monk seals; keep at least 15 feet of distance. Use reef-safe sunscreen (containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) to comply with local laws.

Do I need a rental car for the whole week?: Not necessarily. If you plan to stay in Waikiki for the first few days, you can rent a car for just the 3-4 days you plan to explore the North and East shores to save on parking fees.
Is it safe to swim everywhere?: No. Always look for local warning signs about rip currents. If there is no lifeguard tower, be extra cautious.