Where to Stay in Oahu: The Best and Worst

For many people, choosing their lodging is often just about finding where to stay in Oahu. They take little time to consider where they want to stay because they believe they will spend much of their holiday outside exploring, particularly in Hawai’i. Instead, people flock to whoever offers the lowest price or the easiest booking schedule.

In our opinion, choosing a place to stay in Oahu is one of the most important things to consider when making travel plans to Hawaii. Although cost and convenience should influence your choice of hotel, you should not forget the real time you will spend at your lodging. Our house is where you wake up and go to bed, where you will meet other guests, where you will surely have some meals, and where you will go to rest between activities.

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You will likely spend approximately half of your holiday at your hotel. Therefore, a wise selection of where to stay in Oahu will enable you to maximize your experience. Furthermore, choosing the appropriate type of accommodation and conveniences will allow you to do whatever you want.

This page breaks out the several areas of Oahu to help you better understand their unique advantages and disadvantages, as well as property examples. We also explore the several kinds of lodging that are accessible: hotel rooms, holiday rentals, campgrounds, etc., to assist you in choosing which best fits you.

WHERE ON OAHU SHOULD YOU STAY?

Some islands, like Kaua’i and the Big Island, encourage visitors to hop between destinations within the island to avoid lengthy journeys between their accommodations and points of interest. Visitors might spend a few nights at Waimea, for instance, to view Waimea Canyon before heading to Hanalei to be nearer the Nā Pali Coast or Kona before Hilo, respectively. However, most journey durations are less than one hour; hence, the well-developed system of highways on Oahu helps to justify travel times, and there is no urgent logistical need to bounce between hotels. Having said that, Oahu presents a range of hubs; therefore, even if there is no practical reason to relocate, you might like seeing several aspects of the same island.

WAIKĪKĪ

With so many hotels, restaurants, bars, nightclubs, and points of interest, Waikīkī, Honolulu’s most well-known district, is the center of all tourism in Hawaiʻi. Under the famed Diamond Head Crater, the long, white-sand beach along its urban coast has drawn tourists from all around for more than a hundred years.

WHY SHOULD YOU BE IN WAIKĪKĪ?

Waikīkī is the most convenient where to stay in Oahu.

plenty of options: See for yourself; Waikīkī boasts the highest concentration of hotels in the state. Thereby providing guests with choices regarding hotel, vacation rental, and condo preferences.

Simple, isn’t it? From these lodging facilities, scores of events and trips are available

In Waikīkī, transportation choices are also maximized: car and scooter rentals, taxis, ride shares, public buses, bike shares,…

It is a leading location for dining, entertainment, and luxury shopping. Should you be a foodie, Waikīkī will appeal to you. The number of eateries, from small holes in the wall to award-winning businesses, is not finite.

Laid back and providing the best entry-level surfing conditions on the island, Waikīkī Beach, along with many other ocean sports, sunset cruises, scuba diving, paddle boarding, fishing,

WHY SHOULDN’T YOU BE STAYING IN WAIKĪKĪ?

Waikīkī is popular and has its own set of crowd-related problems.

Congeners and traffic: Although Waikīkī has enough sidewalks for pedestrians, its streets are usually somewhat crowded.

Parking can be costly and challenging; hotels sometimes charge separate per-night parking rates.

Waikīkī Beach can get packed and loud. If you’re looking for your own chunk of sand, Waikk will be a challenge.

WAIKĪKĪ ARE GOOD FOR ACCOMOdations IN:

Backseat travelers: With decent access to public transit and a young nightlife, budget visitors seeking affordable lodging and walkability will find their needs met in Waikīkī. Among the various hostels are Polynesian Hostel Beach Club Waikīkī, Pacific Ohana Hostel, Beach Waikīkī Boutique Hostel, and Seaside Hawaiian Hostel Waikīkī.

Beach Bungums: Do you see your day beginning and finishing on the beach? Would you like to stop in and out of restaurants all day? Do you wish to do as little as necessary in terms of thinking? With all its advantages, Waikīkī lets you concentrate on your leisure time and steer clear of too-rigorous planning. Among many more reasonably priced hotels (non-hostels), the Park Shore Hotel, Waikīkī Resort Hotel, Surfjack, and Royal Grove would fit this travel approach.

Homes: Families Those who have children of all ages usually value Waikīkī for its simplicity of access, beach accessibility, and extensive menu of cuisine. Many hotels and resorts provide free or heavily subsidized meals, kids’ programming, and activity centers. For instance, this Royal Hawaiian program offers comparable choices between full-service hotels and elegant boutique hotels, including the Outrigger, the Hokulani, the Moana Surfrider, the Halekulani, the Hilton Hawaiian Village, and many others.

Nearby Highlights: The Waikīkī Aquarium, Waikīkī Shell, Queen Kapiolani Park, and Diamond Head State Park are just a few of the places accessible by short bike ride or walking distance. Other sites on the south shore, such as Hanauma Bay and Pearl Harbor, are just a short drive away.

NORTH SHORE

Popularized in the 1970s as part of the global dissemination of surf legend, culture, and contests, the North Shore of Oahu is known globally for its offshore breakers and surf vibes. Its rural, residential growth provides a counterpoint to the very urban South Shore of Waikīkī and Honolulu.

Why should you stay on the North Shore?

Laid back with a rural vibe: On the North Shore, there are tiny towns mixed in with rural and ranch areas; there are no high rises.
Beaches: The North Shore is home to a number of white-sand beaches.
Oceans, beaches, mountains, and lots of verdant surroundings define natural beauty.

Why shouldn’t you stay on the North Shore?

Surf throughout the winter, but many beaches will forbid swimming entirely because of the powerful currents, which make swimming extremely risky during this season.
After dinner, the low-key North Shore villages provide little nightlife or amusement. Although there are many excellent restaurants around, businesses will not be open as late as those on the South Shore.
traffic. Unfortunately, traffic also impacts the North Shore. With only one main road passing through it, backups happen, and some of the most well-liked locations—like Laniakea Beach and Shark’s Cove—may get crowded.
The North Shore offers noticeably fewer options for lodging.

Accommodations on the North Shore are ideal for

The North Shore attracts backpackers, surfers, and beach bums eager to relax: Catch some sun and surf, and hit up a food truck that exactly fits the North Shore ethos. Along with numerous tiny bungalow-type rentals, such as the Ke Iki Beach Bungalows, there is a hostel on the North Shore, the Backpacker’s Vacation Inn & Hostel. Additionally, vacation rentals are extremely popular.

Families: The North Shore is a fantastic place for families despite the choppy waves and strong currents (winter) because of its abundance of big, open, white-sand beaches and laid-back, slow pace. Apart from the natural beauty, there are many other things around to keep children delighted: surf classes, ziplining, horseback riding, Shark’s Cove snorkeling, etc. Turtle Bay Resort is an excellent base for seeing the North Shore and has all the conveniences a family could require.

Nearby highlights: Just a short drive from the North Shore (L’Ie), the Polynesian Cultural Center is one of the most family-friendly and well-liked attractions on the island. Haleiwa, the main hub of the North Shore, boasts surf rentals, local cuisine, and several boutiques. There are a plethora of outdoor options: Turtle viewing is best at Laniakea Beach; Shark’s Cove is a safe, beginner-friendly snorkel destination for the summer; Ka’ena Point is ideal for morning walks and whale viewing; Waimea Bay has a botanical garden and the only lifeguarded, swimmable waterfall on the island; Waimea Bay, Bonzai Pipeline, and Sunset Beach are the three world-renowned surf breaks. On the North Shore, food trucks—including the notorious shrimp trucks like Giovanni’s and Fumi’s—are rather common.

EAST COAST (WINDWARDSIDE)

Oahu’s East Coast, sometimes known as Windwardside, highlights the spectacular grandeur of the Ko’olau Mountains. Providing an epic background for the long, white-sand beaches of the area, its wet, green, undulating surface soars far above the laid-back, residential villages of Waimanalo, Kailua, and Kāne’ohe.

Why should you stay on the East Coast?

Beaches: Kailua and Waimnalo’s beaches are as good as they get, making them ideal for all types of activities.
Scenic beauty: Oahu’s southeast section is really amazing. The combination of sun and rain on the ground is abundant.
Outdoor recreation: You have several outdoor activities right at hand between Waimānalo, Kailua, and Kāne’ohe. There are a lot of great local walks, including the Lanikai Pillbox, and kayaking is best on the islands off-shore of Kailua.
Less development: Though they aren’t as developed as Honolulu and Waikīkī, i.e., no high-rises and quite calm evenings, Kailua and Kāne’ohe are not undiscovered either.

Why shouldn’t you stay on the East Coast?

Weather. The trade winds blow from the northeast, usually bringing rain and passing storms. This cools things down, which appeals to some; others would rather have Waikīkī’s more stable temperature.
Nightlife. Outside of a few neighborhood bars and breweries in Kailua, nightlife on the east side is not particularly active. That is how the residents prefer it.
Lack of accommodation options. Almost all of the visitors to the east side travel via Airbnb. There are just little inns and holiday cottages; there are no big hotels here. The east side does not have a full-service hotel, if that is what you are seeking.

Accommodations on the East Coast are ideal for

Active Adventurers: The East Side is therefore a wonderful base for adventurers, as long as you have a car and are not dependent on public transportation. Many of the more unusual trips on the island can be found here. Climb Olomana Peak for a breathtaking view of the Windwardside; go to a waterfall deep within the jungle; see the tidepools, surf, or bodyboard under the lighthouse in Makapu’u; kayak out to the Mokes in Kailua or Chinaman’s Hat. Their proximity allows you to engage in a variety of daily activities without much effort, and you can finish each one with a dip in the sea.

Families: Families—especially those with little children—will find immense delight in all Kailua has to offer. Lanikai Beach, often regarded as the most beautiful beach on the island. One of the safest areas to swim, boasts waves that are typically flat and peaceful. The town of Kailua is conveniently adjacent to all the conveniences a family would require—grocery, pharmacy, restaurants, breweries, etc.—as well as a spot within easy walking or biking distance from the beach. Kailua is an all-around fantastic location for families because of the family-friendly hikes (Lanikai Pillbox), roomy beach parks (Kailua Beach Park), and kid-friendly restaurants in a laid-back, slow-paced environment.

Beach Bums: You can’t go wrong pledging yourself to the east side beaches. Beautiful white sand and blue sea images abound from Kailua Beach, Lanikai Beach, and Waimānalo Beach. Rent a pad next to one of them, and remember your beach chair. Walking distance is used here.

Nearby highlights:

We’ve already highlighted many of these, but don’t overlook the Makapu’u Lighthouse/Beach, Kailua Beach Park, Lanikai Beach, Waimanalo Beach, or downtown Kailua. Further up the coast are Kahana Valley State Park (discussed below in the camping section) and Kualoa Ranch, the site of numerous tours. On the northern side of Kāne’ohe are Tropical Farms (macadamia nuts) and the He’eia Fishpond. At Buzz’s, stop for a happy hour mai tai and an appetizer; at Nico’s Kailua, enjoy a local fish meal; and remember to drink a local brew at Lanikai Brewing.

West Coast (Leeward Side)

The west coast of Oahu has remained relatively undeveloped as far as tourism is concerned. The one exception is Ko Olina, a manicured resort area located in the island’s southwest corner. It’s home to multiple resorts, all focused on the luxury market, and features four man-made swimming lagoons. There’s a small “village” with shops and restaurants, curated for tourists.

Why should you stay on the West Coast?

It’s quiet and secluded; Ko Olina and the west coast are quite relaxed, with little nightlife or fanfare.
Luxury accommodations: Ko Olina has four luxury resorts: The Four Seasons, the Marriott, the Aulani Disney Resort, and the Beach Villas.
Natural beauty: The Waianae Mountains hug the coast tightly, producing lovely valleys and viewing places.
Weather: The west coast presents warm, sunny days with extremely little rain; it is quite dry.

Why shouldn’t you stay on the West Coast?

No budget lodging: Ko Olina’s accommodation, eateries, and boutiques all lean premium travel.
Isolation: Staying on the west side will make most of the island’s major attractions a long journey away.
Not as lush: The west side feels less like a rainforest because there is less rain.

Good For:

Families and Luxury Seekers: Although the activities along the west coast cater to everyone (see below), the accommodation is primarily for families and luxury visitors. Families would find the Aulani Disney Resort ideal, and the Ko Olina Lagoons provide a safe environment for children to splash about in the water. Those seeking luxury will find all they need at a venue like the Four Seasons.

Nearby highlights:

There are lots of areas of interest and outdoor activities on the west coast; hence, we strongly advise everyone to visit there during their stay.

Among the white-sand beaches are Mākaha and Nānākuli. Drive to the secluded Yokohama Beach at the end of the road, then stroll along the rocky coast to Ka’ena Point.
Advanced snorkelers should explore the underwater universe found at Electric Beach.
At Kahumana Farm to Table Cafe in Waianae, you can see local products.
Novice surfers should not miss the break at Mākaha.
The southwest boasts three luau sites: Germaine’s, Chief’s, and Paradise Cove.

Different Types of Accommodations

HOTELS

Hotels are the most commonly used form of accommodation on Oahu, where practically two-thirds of the state’s total rooms are located. Their forms and sizes range greatly. Certain offer concierge services and restaurants; others do not.

Why should you stay at a hotel?

Affordability: Oahu hotels are among the least expensive of all the islands, averaging $240 per night.
Options: From basic, no-frills accommodations to exquisite ocean-view suites, there are several hotel choices.
Daily cleaning and service: While vacation rentals lack such advantages, hotels do.

Why shouldn’t you stay at a hotel?

Livingliness: Many hotels—especially in Waikīkī—have tiny kitchens and living areas.
Restitution of privacy: With hundreds of rooms and shared areas, some hotels provide only limited solitude.

RESORTS

The services a hotel and a resort provide distinguish them most from each other. While many hotels hardly provide these services at all, resorts typically have extra on-site activities and conveniences such as adventure centers, spas, in-house restaurants, and room service. Usually with private leisure areas, resorts feature bigger grounds and common areas. Where to stay in Oahu, those are the Hawaiian Hilton Village, Turtle Bay Resort, the Kahala Hotel & Resort, and the Disney Aulani Hotel.

Why should you stay at a resort?

Efficiency. Resorts feature everything you can possibly need right on-site, so you won’t have to leave the property if you so choose.
Calm. Resorts provide the opportunity to decompress without disturbance and typically foster laid-back attitudes.

Why shouldn’t you stay at a resort?

Expense. Generally speaking, resort accommodations cost more than rooms in ordinary hotels.
There is a lack of local vibe. A resort’s tendency to block off visitors from nearby local communities increases in direct proportion to the degree of development of its own grounds.

VACATION RENTALS

Vacation rentals are another option for visiting Hawaii. Renting a resident’s house, apartment, condo, or bungalow instantly immerses you in the local community with all the advantages of a real house, most importantly a living room, complete kitchen, and neighborhood atmosphere.

Hawaii has altered its vacation rental rules over the past few years to limit their operations and number. The most important thing for guests to remember is that rentals must either be located in designated zones or have a state-issued license to be lawful.

A rental is legal if it satisfies one of two criteria:

It is in a resort-zoned area including Kahala, Waikīkī, Ko Olina, Lāʻie, ʻEwa, Mākaha, and Kuilima.
Though it is outside a resort-zone region, it has a certificate or permission number for the advertised Airbnb, VRBO, etc. property. To make sure everything is in order, visit this state website to verify the number’s authenticity.

Why should you stay at a vacation rental?

A vacation rental house is the most local-feeling kind of lodging; imagine spending time with your family in a fully equipped house with a kitchen and a patio with views of the mountains or ocean.

Why shouldn’t you stay at a vacation rental?

Ethics. While some analysts contend that holiday rentals hurt local communities more than they benefit them, others disagree.
None of the services. Unlike a hotel or resort where a staff member is on hand to assist and offer housekeeping, you are on your own at a vacation rental.

CAMPING

The county runs 17 campgrounds and four state-run campsites on Oahu, and in theory, this is a reasonably affordable means of getting around the island. Many are in lovely surroundings, either next to the beach or under the mountains, and for self-sufficient people without many conveniences, camping can be a wonderful way to see Oahu.

Having said that, it’s not an easy task to complete. Of course, you would have to bring all your own camping gear; the campgrounds have stay limits and need permits, which makes it difficult to schedule your evenings.

Why should you stay at a campground?

Natural beauty: Imagine camping just steps away from the sand and salty water.
Affordability: Compared to hotels, campsites are very cheap, typically $10–$30 per night, depending on the site.
Peace and freedom: The spirit of camping puts you on a slow pace to enjoy the natural areas of Hawai‘i, and bouncing from campground to campground is a unique way to see the island.

Why shouldn’t you stay at a campground?

Permits and regulations: County-run campgrounds only allow 3 and 5-day visits; Wednesday and Thursday night camping is not allowed. Maximum stays in state-run campgrounds are five nights; likewise, close down on Wednesday and Thursday nights.
Availability: Locals find campsites appealing, and they can get filled fast. If your days are non-flexible, planning and securing your stay could prove challenging.
Lack of services: Most Oahu campgrounds lack infrastructure, meaning there is no convenience store, power source, or rental kiosk.
Weather: Rain could make camping unpleasant.
Luggage: Along with all the other camping gear, you will have to pack a tent and a sleeping bag.