Things To Do
in Schofield Barracks
Schofield Barracks is a major United States Army installation on the island of Oahu, Hawaii, located near Wahiawā and within easy reach of Pearl Harbor. It serves as a hub for training, housing, and logistics for Army units on Oahu, and connects with Wheeler Army Airfield and Helemano Military Reservation. The base hosts the 25th Infantry Division and a broad community of soldiers, families, and civilian employees.
Its central location makes it a practical base for exploring Oahu’s natural beauty, beaches, and cultural heritage.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Upon arrival at Schofield Barracks, you will start your day with a warm welcome briefing at the visitor center. After that, take a moment to explore the surrounding area and familiarize yourself with the military installations and amenities. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the local café while soaking in the lush Hawaiian landscape.
In the afternoon, join a guided tour of the historic sites within Schofield Barracks, where you can learn about its rich military history dating back to World War I. Visit the Tropic Lightning Museum, which showcases artifacts and stories from the 25th Infantry Division. Afterward, relax at the community park, where you can enjoy a picnic and engage with fellow visitors.
As the sun sets, head to the on-base dining facility for a flavorful Hawaiian dinner featuring local dishes. After dinner, participate in a community event or live music performance often organized on base, giving you a chance to mingle with military families and staff. Conclude your day by stargazing at the beautifully clear sky above Hawaii.
Start your day with a traditional Hawaiian breakfast at a nearby local diner, known for its fresh fruit and pancakes. Afterward, visit the nearby Wahiawa Botanical Garden to immerse yourself in Hawaii's unique flora and fauna. Take a leisurely stroll through the garden while enjoying the peaceful ambiance and vibrant colors of the tropical plants.
Spend your afternoon visiting the Dole Plantation, where you can explore the history of pineapple farming in Hawaii. Participate in a guided tour of the plantation and enjoy a delicious pineapple ice cream treat as you learn about the agricultural practices. Don't forget to stop by the gift shop for unique local products and souvenirs.
For dinner, try a luau experience at one of the nearby venues, where you can enjoy a buffet of traditional Hawaiian dishes and witness cultural performances. Engage in hula lessons and learn about the significance of Hawaiian traditions. Wind down the evening by enjoying the lively atmosphere and the sounds of Hawaiian music.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| 🍽️Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $50-70 |
| 🏠One-bedroom apartment (city center) per month | $2,100-2,800 |
| 🧺Groceries (monthly, per household) | $350-600 |
| ⛽Gasoline per gallon | $4.50-5.00 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty and beaches nearby
- Strong sense of history and culture
- Family-friendly with military community resources
- Wide range of outdoor activities year-round
- High cost of living and travel within Hawaii
- Heavy traffic during peak hours
- Some areas are tourist-focused and crowded
- Military base access can limit areas you can visit
Places to Visit in Schofield Barracks
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic crater-side trail with sweeping views of Waikiki and the ocean.
Pristine white sands and turquoise waters ideal for sunrise photography.
Panoramic cliffside views of windward Oahu and lush valleys.
Dramatic beaches, big surf in winter, and dramatic sunsets.
Food in Schofield Barracks
Schofield Barracks Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh, cubed raw fish seasoned with soy, sesame, onions, and green onions; often served over rice in a poke bowl.
Must-Try!
Slow-roasted, smoky shredded pork, commonly served with cabbage, rice, and gravy.
Rice topped with a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and rich brown gravy.
Pork or fish wrapped in taro leaves and steamed until tender.
Sweet, colorful shaved ice served with flavored syrups; a refreshing treat on hot days.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Saturday market at Kapiolani Community College offering fresh produce, poke, locally made snacks, and desserts.
Famous pineapple-themed market with fresh fruit, pineapple treats, and locally made snacks in Wahiawā.
Vibrant street food scene with local dishes, noodles, dim sum, and fusion bites near downtown Honolulu.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people with warmth and respect; be mindful of personal space and modest dress in certain settings.
Remove shoes when entering homes or certain traditional spaces; speak politely and address elders with respect.
Respect sacred sites and signage, avoid touching coral or taking shells from beaches; photograph with permission where required.
Safety
Tipping in Schofield Barracks
Ensure a smooth experience
Restaurants typically expect 15-20% for good service; some establishments automatically add a service charge; taxis and ride-shares usually require tipping of 10-15%.
Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, AmEx) widely accepted; cash is common for small purchases; some places may require a minimum for card payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm, dry-ish days with steady tradewinds; great for beach days, snorkeling, and outdoor activities; humidity can feel higher indoors.
More rainfall and cooler evenings; North Shore swells attract surfers; visibility remains excellent for reef and ocean photography.
Pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds; ideal for hiking and cultural events.
Continued warm weather with good surf and underwater visibility; a good time to explore Haleiwa and Manoa Valley.
Schofield Barracks at Night
Hiking in Schofield Barracks
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular crater rim hike with sweeping ocean views and cityscape.
Remote coastal hike along rugged cliffs and sea bird habitat (drive part of the way; check conditions).
Forest hike to a scenic waterfall near urban Honolulu.
Airports
How to reach Schofield Barracks by plane.
Main international and domestic hub on Oahu; quick drive to Schofield Barracks via H-1/Waikiki corridors.
Small regional airport serving general aviation and limited commercial flights; used for private travel and charter services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large community affiliated with Schofield Barracks, including active-duty service members, civilian employees, and dependents.
Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander communities, as well as long-time residents and newcomers from across the U.S. and Asia.
People visiting for beaches, culture, and outdoor activities.
Residents in nearby towns (Honolulu, Pearl City, Wahiawā) pursuing work, school, and hobbies.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Hawaii’s iconic sport; world-class waves on the North Shore, with summer smaller surf and winter big swells.
A traditional water sport with clubs along the coast; popular for locals and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Schofield Barracks.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many spots offer veggie poke, veggie plates, tofu dishes, and creative salads; ask for sauces on the side and check for gluten-free options.