Oahu, known as “The Gathering Place,” is the third largest of the Hawaiian Islands and home to the state capital, Honolulu. It offers a blend of natural beauty, including iconic beaches like Waikiki and historic sites such as Pearl Harbor, as well as vibrant cultural experiences in areas like Chinatown and the North Shore, renowned for its surfing.
Our Pick of the Best Hotels on Oahu:
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach Hotel
- 🏨 4-Star: Sheraton Waikiki
- 💸 Cheap: Waikiki Beachside Hostel
- 🏢 Apartment: Aston Waikiki Beach Tower
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Marriott's Ko Olina Beach Club
- 🏩 For Couples: The Modern Honolulu
Guide to the Best Places to Stay in Oahu
- 👀 For the First Time: Waikiki
- 🏄🏻 For Surfers: North Shore
- 👪 For Families: Ko Olina
- 🇺🇸 For Local Experience: Windward Coast (East Oahu)
- 🏰 For History: Honolulu (Beyond Waikiki)
1. Waikiki: The Best Place to Stay in Oahu for First-Time Visitors
🔥 Essential Experience: Waikiki Beach is the heart of this neighborhood, famous for its golden sand beach and calm, turquoise waters. It’s the perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying water sports like surfing and paddleboarding. The beach stretches from the Hilton Hawaiian Village to Diamond Head, offering plenty of space for relaxation and fun.
🌆 Iconic Views: Hiking up Diamond Head, an iconic volcanic crater, rewards you with panoramic views of Waikiki and the Pacific Ocean. The 0.8-mile trail can be steep but is well worth the effort for the breathtaking vistas at the summit.
🏫 Cultural Heritage: Known as the “Pink Palace,” the Royal Hawaiian Hotel is a historic landmark with its Moorish-style architecture and rich history dating back to 1927. It’s a great place to explore, dine, or simply admire its grandeur.
🎭 Cultural Hub: Experience the spirit of aloha at the Kuhio Beach Hula Show, a free, authentic Hawaiian hula performance held at sunset. It’s a wonderful way to immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture and enjoy traditional music and dance.
🌳 Relaxing Retreat: Kapiolani Park, Honolulu’s largest and oldest public park, offers a serene escape with its lush greenery, picnic spots, and recreational areas. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll, a family outing, or attending one of the many cultural events held here.
🚍 Easy Access: Waikiki is well-connected with public transportation options, including buses and trolleys, making it easy to explore other parts of Honolulu and Oahu. Key attractions like the Honolulu Zoo, Waikiki Aquarium, and Ala Moana Center are just a short ride away.
Where to Stay in Waikiki?
💎 Luxury Hotels:
- The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach Hotel – A luxurious oceanfront resort featuring 552 stylishly appointed rooms and suites, two infinity pools, multiple dining options, and a spa offering traditional Hawaiian treatments.
- Aston Waikiki Beach Tower – An all-suite, oceanfront property directly across from famous Waikiki Beach, offering spacious accommodations with fully-equipped kitchens, private balconies, and resort amenities including a pool, fitness center, and recreation deck.
- Halekulani – An iconic luxury hotel on Waikiki Beach, boasting 453 elegant rooms and suites, award-winning dining options, a spa, and a famous orchid-shaped pool made with 1.2 million glass mosaic tiles.
🏨 Mid-Range Hotels:
- Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa – A boutique hotel featuring spacious studios and suites with kitchenettes, a heated swimming pool, fitness center, and a prime location next to Fort DeRussy Park.
- OUTRIGGER Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel – A modern craft hotel with stylish rooms, an outdoor pool, live entertainment, and dining options including the famous Maui Brewing Co., all located in the heart of Waikiki.
💸 Budget-Friendly Hotels:
- Aloha Suites Waikiki – A mid-century modern vacation rental property offering accommodations ranging from studios to grand penthouses, located in the heart of Waikiki Beach with easy access to shops and best attractions.
- The Beach Waikiki Boutique Hostel – A budget-friendly hostel just two blocks from Waikiki Beach, offering private and dorm rooms for guests aged 18-45, daily tours/activities, and a rooftop social area with weekly free pizza nights.
- Ohia Waikiki Studio Suites – An affordable apartment-style hotel featuring spacious suites with kitchens or mini-fridges, private lanais, a swimming pool, and family-friendly amenities like daily snack packs and a children’s treasure chest, located two blocks from Waikiki Beach and next to the International Market Place.
2. North Shore: Perfect Place to Stay on the North Shore of Oahu for Surfers
🏄 Surf Paradise: Stretching along the northern coast of Oahu, the North Shore is world-renowned for its legendary surf spots and laid-back beach culture. This picturesque region is a mecca for surfers and beach lovers alike, offering a stark contrast to the bustling streets of Honolulu.
🌊 Iconic Beaches: The North Shore boasts some of Hawaii’s most famous beaches. Waimea Bay, known for its big wave surfing in winter and calm waters in summer, is a must-visit. Sunset Beach lives up to its name with breathtaking sunsets, while the Banzai Pipeline attracts professional surfers with its powerful waves.
🌴 Natural Wonders: Beyond the beaches, the North Shore offers stunning natural attractions. Hike the Waimea Valley Trail to reach the beautiful Waimea Falls, a 45-foot waterfall surrounded by lush botanical gardens. The trail is mostly flat and paved, making it accessible for many visitors.
🍽️ Foodie Haven: The North Shore is famous for its food truck scene. Don’t miss trying the fresh shrimp from Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck or cooling off with shave ice from Matsumoto’s. For a sit-down meal, the charming town of Haleiwa offers a variety of local eateries serving Hawaiian specialties.
🌺 Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture by visiting the Polynesian Cultural Center or exploring the sacred Waimea Valley. These sites offer insights into the rich history and traditions of Hawaii.
🚗 Scenic Drives: Take a leisurely drive along Kamehameha Highway, which offers stunning coastal views and passes through quaint towns and by famous surf spots. It’s the perfect way to soak in the laid-back North Shore vibe.
Where to Stay in North Shore?
💎 Luxury Hotels:
- Turtle Bay Resort – A luxurious oceanfront resort offering spacious rooms, suites, and cottages, two championship golf courses, multiple dining options, and a variety of outdoor activities including surfing, horseback riding, and hiking.
- Waimea Bay Shoreline House – A charming beachfront vacation rental located steps from Waimea Bay, featuring spacious accommodations, a fully equipped kitchen, and stunning ocean views, perfect for a relaxing family getaway.
- Ocean Villas at Turtle Bay – Elegant beachfront villas within the Turtle Bay Resort, offering fully-equipped kitchens, private lanais, access to resort amenities including pools and golf courses, and direct beach access.
🏨 Mid-Range Hotels:
- Beach Cozy North Shore Turtle Bay Condo – A well-appointed condo featuring a fully equipped kitchen, two bathrooms, free WiFi, and access to an outdoor pool, located a short walk from Kaihalulu Beach and Turtle Beach.
- NorthShore Haven Condo – A spacious 980 sq. ft. condo with one bedroom, two bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and access to a pool, situated close to Turtle Bay Resort and offering views of the golf course.
- Stunning Views In Oahu! – An oceanfront condo offering breathtaking views, modern amenities, and a prime location near popular North Shore attractions like Waimea Bay and the Polynesian Cultural Center.
💸 Budget-Friendly Hotels:
- Courtyard by Marriott Oahu North Shore – A beachfront hotel offering spacious rooms with free WiFi, an outdoor resort-style pool, an on-site restaurant, and easy access to the Polynesian Cultural Center and other local attractions.
- Mokulē'ia Beach Houses at Owen's Retreat – Beachfront vacation homes featuring fully equipped kitchens, private terraces, free WiFi, and access to water sports facilities, located just steps from Mokuleia Army Beach.
- Kalani Hawaii Private Lodging – A cozy lodging option with free WiFi, free private parking, and close proximity to Sunset Beach and Banzai Pipeline, offering various outdoor activities like snorkeling, windsurfing, and hiking.
3. Ko Olina: Great Side of Oahu for Family Vacation
🌴 Tropical Paradise: Nestled on the leeward coast of Oahu, Ko Olina is a 642-acre master-planned resort community known for its pristine beaches, man-made lagoons, and luxurious accommodations. This picturesque destination offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern amenities.
🏖️ Lagoon Oasis: Ko Olina’s crown jewels are its four man-made lagoons with white-sand beaches. These protected coves offer calm waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding. The lagoons are connected by a scenic 5-mile walking path, ideal for leisurely strolls or morning jogs with breathtaking ocean views.
🏨 Luxury Resorts: The area boasts world-class accommodations, including the Aulani Disney Resort & Spa, Four Seasons Resort O’ahu at Ko Olina, Marriott’s Ko Olina Beach Club, and the Beach Villas at Ko Olina. Each resort offers unique experiences, from Disney magic to high-end luxury, catering to various preferences and budgets.
⛳ Recreational Haven: Ko Olina caters to active travelers with its championship golf course, full-service marina offering various ocean activities, and proximity to hiking trails. The Ko Olina Golf Club provides a challenging course with stunning ocean views.
🍽️ Culinary Delights: Food enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse dining options at Ko Olina. From resort restaurants to local eateries at Ko Olina Station and Center, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience a traditional Hawaiian luau at Paradise Cove or the Disney Aulani’s Ka Waa luau.
🚗 Convenient Location: Situated just 17 miles west of Honolulu, Ko Olina offers a tranquil escape while remaining accessible to the city’s attractions. It’s also a short drive from Kapolei, Oahu’s “Second City,” where you can find additional shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
Recommended Hotels:
💎 Luxury Hotels:
- Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olinaa – A luxurious beachfront resort featuring 370 spacious rooms and suites, five restaurants and lounges, a world-class spa, multiple pools including an adults-only infinity pool, and access to the Ko Olina Golf Club.
- Marriott's Ko Olina Beach Club – A family-friendly resort offering spacious villas with full kitchens, multiple lagoon-style pools with waterslides, a children’s club, several dining options, and direct access to the beautiful Ko Olina Beach.
- Ko Olina Beach Villas O704– A private, upscale vacation rental featuring stunning ocean views, a fully equipped kitchen, access to resort amenities including pools and a fitness center, and located steps away from the pristine Ko Olina lagoons.
🏨 Mid-Range Hotels:
- Embassy Suites By Hilton Oahu Kapolei - FREE Breakfast – A modern all-suite hotel offering spacious accommodations, complimentary made-to-order breakfast, evening receptions, an outdoor pool, and easy access to Kapolei’s shopping and dining options.
- Residence Inn by Marriott Oahu Kapolei – An extended-stay hotel featuring fully equipped kitchens in every suite, complimentary breakfast, an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a convenient location near local attractions and businesses.
- Hampton Inn & Suites Oahu Kapolei - FREE Breakfast & Parking – A centrally located hotel within the Ka Makana Ali’i shopping center, offering free hot breakfast, WiFi, parking, a fitness center, an outdoor pool, and proximity to dining, entertainment, and local attractions.
💸 Budget-Friendly Hotels:
- Paradise Bay Resort – A waterfront resort on Oahu’s windward coast offering stunning views of the Koolau Mountains and Kaneohe Bay, featuring suites and cottages with private lanais, a pool, water activities, and unique guest-only experiences like visits to the Kaneohe Sand Bar.
- Oasis Hotel Waikiki – A vibrant boutique hotel with spacious rooms, lush gardens, a soaking pool, complimentary daily breakfast, and easy access to beaches, shopping, and nightlife.
- Backpackers Vacation Inn and Plantation Village – A budget-friendly beachfront hostel on Oahu’s North Shore offering a range of accommodations from dorm beds to private cabins, with easy access to famous surf spots, food trucks, and beaches along the “7 Mile Miracle” coastline.
4. Windward Coast (East Oahu): Best Area to Stay on the Windward Coast for Explore Local Experience
🌟 Essential Experience: Located on the Windward Coast, eastern side of oahu. Lanikai Beach is renowned for its powdery white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Often considered one of the best beaches in the world, it’s perfect for swimming, kayaking, and enjoying the serene beauty of the ocean.
🌄 Scenic Views: The Nuʻuanu Pali Lookout offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Windward Coast and the Koʻolau Mountains. This historic site provides a dramatic backdrop for photos and a glimpse into Oahu’s lush, green landscape.
🏯 Cultural Landmark: Nestled in the Valley of the Temples Memorial Park, the Byodo-In Temple is a stunning replica of a 900-year-old Buddhist temple in Japan. Surrounded by koi ponds and lush gardens, it’s a peaceful retreat that offers a unique cultural experience.
🚗 Convenient Access: The Windward Coast is easily accessible via scenic routes like the Kalanianaole Highway (Highway 72) and the Pali Highway (Highway 61). These drives offer stunning coastal and mountain views, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination.
🛍️ Quaint Shopping: Kailua Town is a charming community with an array of boutique shops, local markets, and cafes. It’s a great place to explore local crafts, enjoy a meal, and experience the laid-back vibe of the Windward Coast.
🌿 Outdoor Adventure: Kualoa Ranch is a vast private nature reserve offering a variety of outdoor activities, including ATV tours, ziplining, horseback riding, and movie site tours. It’s a must-visit for adventure seekers and film buffs alike.
Recommended Hotels:
💎 Luxury Hotels:
- Modern Luxury Beach House Kailua – A contemporary beachfront home in Kailua featuring spacious interiors, a fully equipped kitchen, private lanai, and direct access to Kailua Beach, perfect for families and groups seeking a luxurious stay.
- Hummingbird Oceanfront Cottage – A charming oceanfront cottage offering stunning sea views, a private garden, fully equipped kitchen, and close proximity to local attractions, ideal for a serene and romantic getaway.
- Serenity by the Sea Ultimate Beachfront Escape – A spacious beachfront apartment in Hauula with modern amenities, including a full kitchen, two bathrooms, free WiFi, and a private balcony with ocean views, located near the Polynesian Cultural Center and popular hiking trails.
🏨 Mid-Range Hotels:
- Ocean Front ~* – A beachfront property on Oahu’s Windward Coast offering direct access to pristine shorelines popular for water sports and scenic strolls, with easy access to local attractions and activities.
- Breezy Beachfront Bali-Style Haven 180 Degree OceanView – A luxurious Bali-inspired beachfront accommodation featuring stunning 180-degree ocean views, combining tropical aesthetics with modern amenities for a unique and relaxing stay on Oahu’s Windward Coast.
- Beachfront Condo with Stunning Ocean View – A conveniently located beachfront condo in Hauula offering breathtaking ocean views, within walking distance of Punalu’u Beach Park and just 4.4 miles from the Polynesian Cultural Center.
💸 Budget-Friendly Hotels:
- Paradise Bay Resort – A premier waterfront resort overlooking Kaneohe Bay and the Koolau Mountains, offering suites and cottages with private lanais, unique guest-only experiences like visits to the Kaneohe Sand Bar, and amenities including kayaking, snorkeling, and paddleboarding.
- Oahu Camper Adventures – A unique accommodation option in Kailua offering camper vans for rent, allowing guests to explore Oahu’s beautiful landscapes and beaches at their own pace, with pet-friendly policies and a refundable damage deposit.
- HW Campervan Rental NO CAMPGROUND – A campervan rental service providing a flexible and adventurous way to explore Oahu’s Windward Coast, though specific details about campgrounds are not provided.
5. Honolulu (Beyond Waikiki): One of the Best Spots to Stay on Oahu for History Lovers
🌟 Essential Experience: The Pearl Harbor National Memorial is a poignant and historically significant site that commemorates the events of December 7, 1941. Visitors can explore the USS Arizona Memorial, the Battleship Missouri, and the Pacific Aviation Museum, gaining deep insights into World War II history.
🏛️ Historic Landmarks: Iolani Palace, the only royal palace in the United States, is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. This beautifully restored building offers guided tours that delve into Hawaii’s royal heritage and the lives of its last reigning monarchs.
🎭 Cultural Hub: The Honolulu Museum of Art is a cultural gem featuring an extensive collection of Asian, Pacific, and Western art. The museum also hosts rotating exhibitions, film screenings, and educational programs, making it a vibrant cultural hub.
🌺 Botanical Gardens: Foster Botanical Garden, located in downtown Honolulu, is a peaceful oasis featuring a diverse collection of tropical plants and trees. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll and to appreciate the island’s rich botanical heritage.
🐠 Marine Life: Hanauma Bay is a protected marine life conservation area perfect for snorkeling and observing diverse marine species. The bay’s clear waters and abundant coral reefs make it a top destination for underwater exploration.
🛍️ Unique Shopping: Ala Moana Center is one of the largest open-air shopping malls in the world, offering a mix of high-end retailers, local boutiques, and diverse dining options. It’s a shopper’s paradise with something for everyone.
Where to Stay in Honolulu?
💎 Luxury Hotels:
- The Kahala Hotel and Resort – A luxurious 5-star resort set on a secluded beach in Honolulu’s upscale Kahala district, offering elegant rooms and suites, multiple dining options, a dolphin lagoon, and a full-service spa, popular among celebrities and dignitaries.
- 'Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach – A beachfront resort in Waikiki featuring an Oceanarium, seven dining options including Morimoto Asia by Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto, and various room types with ocean views.
- Ka Laʻi Waikiki Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts – A 38-story high-rise hotel offering residential-style suites with fully-equipped kitchens, an infinity pool, on-site restaurants, and stunning views of the ocean, Diamond Head, Honolulu skyline, and Ko’olau Mountains, located minutes from Waikiki Beach.
🏨 Mid-Range Hotels:
- Wayfinder Waikiki – A newly transformed boutique hotel located beside Honolulu’s Ala Wai Canal, featuring 228 stylish guestrooms, a large saltwater pool, on-site dining options, and immersive Hawaiian cultural experiences.
- Prince Waikiki – A modern oceanfront hotel offering stunning views of Ala Wai Harbor, two pools including an infinity pool, multiple dining options, free shuttles to local attractions, and a 27-hole golf course designed by Arnold Palmer and Ed Seay.
- Sheraton Princess Kaiulani – A historic hotel set on the former estate of Hawaii’s last princess, offering well-appointed rooms with private lanais, family-friendly activities, an outdoor pool, and easy access to Waikiki Beach and local attractions.
💸 Budget-Friendly Hotels:
- Oasis Hotel Waikiki – A boutique hotel adorned with lush greenery, featuring spacious rooms, a serene garden with koi and turtle ponds, a soaking pool, and an on-site restaurant, all within walking distance of Waikiki Beach and top shopping and dining spots.
- Waikiki Malia – A centrally located hotel offering renovated rooms with modern amenities, an outdoor plunge pool, a fitness center, and unique cultural activities like ukulele classes and lei making, just a minute drive east of Waikiki.
- Aqua Palms Waikiki – A recently renovated boutique hotel located a block from the beach, offering modern rooms with in-room conveniences, an outdoor pool, sun deck, and on-site IHOP restaurant, close to Ala Moana Center and the Hawaii Convention Center.
FAQs About Trip To Oahu
What is the nicest area of Oahu?
The nicest area of Oahu is subjective, but Waikiki is highly regarded for its world-famous beach, luxury resorts, shopping, and dining options, while the North Shore is celebrated for its stunning natural beauty and excellent surfing spots.
Which side of Oahu has the best beaches?
The best beaches on Oahu are often found on the North Shore, renowned for its world-class surfing spots like Waimea Bay and Sunset Beach, and the east side (Windward Coast), which features picturesque beaches such as Lanikai and Kailua, known for their clear turquoise waters and soft white sand.
What is the best time of the year to visit Oahu?
The best time to visit Oahu is during the spring (April to early June) and fall (September to mid-December) when the weather is pleasant, crowds are smaller, and accommodation rates are more affordable.
How many days do I need on Oahu?
You ideally need at least 5-7 days on Oahu to fully experience its diverse attractions, including beaches, historical sites, cultural experiences, and natural beauty.
How to stay in Hawaii on a budget?
To stay in Hawaii on a budget, consider booking accommodations like hostels or vacation rentals, using public transportation or renting a car for a short period, and enjoying free or low-cost activities such as hiking, beach outings, and visiting public parks.
Which beach in Oahu has the clearest water?
Lanikai Beach on Oahu’s Windward Coast is renowned for having some of the clearest, most turquoise waters on the island, making it a favorite spot for swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling.
