Finding the right place to stay on Oahu can be exciting but hard. The island offers many choices, from lively Honolulu to peaceful Ko Olina. It also has the untouched North Shore. Every year, over 4 million people visit, and Waikiki is the top spot, welcoming 71,000 daily.
This guide will show you the best hotels and vacation rentals on Oahu. It will make your trip unforgettable. Find the perfect spot that fits your taste in this tropical paradise.
So, get ready to explore the 10 best places to stay on Oahu!
Key Takeaways
- Oahu is home to over 4 million visitors each year.
- Waikiki is perfect for first-time visitors with a wide range of family-friendly hotels.
- The island features various accommodation types, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hostels.
- Ko Olina is known for its warmer weather and family-friendly lagoons.
- Plan for additional fees including resort and parking when budgeting for your trip.
1. The Royal Hawaiian (Waikiki) – Iconic Luxury
The Royal Hawaiian is known as the ‘Pink Palace of the Pacific.’ It’s a legendary 5-star hotel in Waikiki. Since 1927, it has mixed historic charm with modern luxury. It’s a top pick for those wanting unforgettable stays.
Historic ‘Pink Palace of the Pacific’ with beachfront access.
The Royal Hawaiian sits right on Waikiki Beach. It lets you dive into the tropical beauty around you. Enjoy walking on the sand and try snorkeling or parasailing right by your room.
Luxury suites, world-class dining, and a tropical setting.
The resort has fancy suites with amazing ocean views. The Azure Restaurant & Bar serves a four-course dinner. Mai Tai Bar has live music and a lively vibe. Relax at the Abhasa Spa with soothing treatments.
Best For: Couples, honeymooners, luxury travelers
The Royal Hawaiian is perfect for couples and honeymooners. It offers a romantic setting and top-notch amenities. It’s ideal for those seeking luxury.
Halekulani is a top luxury resort in Waikiki, known for its stunning ocean views and fancy rooms. It has been welcoming guests for over a century. The infinity pool, made of 1 million glass tiles, is perfect for relaxing.
The mix of calm and great service makes your stay special.
Five-star resort with stunning ocean views and fine dining.
Halekulani is more than just a beautiful place. It has six Premier Suites with amazing views of Waikiki Beach and the Pacific. Guests can enjoy gourmet meals at La Mer, a top-rated restaurant.
La Mer serves French-style dishes with a Hawaiian twist, making dining a highlight.
Infinity pool, spa, and Forbes 5-star restaurant La Mer.
Halekulani also has a great spa with new spa suites. Each room is big and has a private balcony. There are rooms for guests with special needs too.
The hotel is upfront about prices, so you won’t face any surprise fees.
Best For: Romantic getaways, upscale travelers
Halekulani is perfect for couples and those who love luxury. It has a cozy feel, excellent service, and is close to fun spots. You also get free entry to local museums and galleries.
This makes your stay at Halekulani both luxurious and culturally enriching.
Turtle Bay Resort is on Oahu’s North Shore. It’s a peaceful place for adventure and rest. It’s the only resort here, offering a special chance to enjoy the island’s beauty.
Only resort on the North Shore, perfect for surfers and hikers.
At Turtle Bay Resort, you’re close to top surfing spots. Surfers come all year to surf the famous waves. Hikers can see beautiful views and green plants on trails.
Private beaches, eco-friendly lodgings, and horseback riding.
The resort has private beaches for a calm place to relax. Lodgings focus on being green, making your stay comfy and eco-friendly. You can also ride horses on the beach, enjoying the scenery.
Best For: Nature lovers, families, adventure seekers
Turtle Bay Resort is great for families and nature fans. It mixes adventure with luxury. Whether you’re here for a quick trip or a longer stay, you’ll have amazing times in Hawaii’s beautiful places.
Find peace at the Four Seasons Resort Oahu, in Ko Olina. It’s a luxury spot for relaxation and fun. With amazing views, top-notch food, and a special vibe, it’s perfect for couples and families.
Exclusive retreat with private lagoons and championship golf.
The Four Seasons Resort Oahu has private lagoons for you to relax by. Play golf on a championship course, great for all skill levels. With 371 stylish rooms, you’ll love the ocean views.
World-class spa and celebrity-style service.
Enjoy spa treatments that soothe your senses. The staff is ready to help, with services for all ages. Relax in one of the resort’s fancy pools, like the adults-only infinity pool with ocean views.
Best For: Luxury travelers, couples, families.
It’s great for romantic trips or family fun. Try Michelin-starred food and cool cocktails in tiki mugs. Your stay will be unforgettable.
The Modern Honolulu is a unique place. It mixes luxury with the buzz of the city. This hotel is known for its elegant design and great night experiences. It’s the perfect spot to see Honolulu’s best.
Trendy boutique hotel with stylish rooftop bars and nightlife.
The Modern Honolulu has amazing rooftop bars. They add to the lively nightlife. Addiction Nightclub is famous for its fun vibe and DJ shows.
The Sunset Pool is a calm spot. It’s surrounded by gardens and cabanas. Here, you can enjoy cocktails and beautiful views.
Sleek rooms and vibrant city atmosphere.
The rooms at The Modern Honolulu are designed for comfort and style. Prices are around $200 to $250 per night. This hotel offers luxury without high costs.
The fitness center has ocean views and yoga classes. It’s great for those who care about health. It makes your stay even better.
Best For: Young professionals, couples, solo travelers
This hotel is popular with young professionals and couples. Solo travelers also love it for its lively atmosphere. It’s close to many attractions, making your stay memorable..
The Hyatt Regency Waikiki is a top pick for those wanting luxury without spending too much. It’s right by the ocean and has big rooms perfect for families. Plus, it’s close to Waikiki’s shops and beaches, making it great for all ages.
Oceanfront resort with spacious rooms and great amenities.
The Hyatt Regency Waikiki has about 1,200 rooms. It’s perfect for big families or groups. Each room is around 400 square feet, giving lots of room to relax.
There’s also the Regency Club for extra perks. It serves food three times a day, including breakfast. Breakfast is from 6:30 AM to 10 AM with dishes like scrambled eggs and fresh fruit.
Perfect for families, close to shopping and beaches.
This resort is great for families. It’s close to shops and beaches, making it easy to explore. Parking costs around $70 plus tax per night, but Globalists might get it for free.
Best For: Families, budget-conscious travelers
The Hyatt Regency Waikiki costs about $275 per night. This is cheaper than some other luxury hotels. For example, the Halekulani Hotel starts at $555, showing the Hyatt’s good value.
The Kahala Hotel & Resort is a peaceful place for a relaxing getaway. It offers beautiful views and luxury, making your stay unforgettable. This resort shows true Hawaiian hospitality, meeting all your needs.
Peaceful resort with a dolphin lagoon and award-winning dining.
At The Kahala Hotel & Resort, you can see dolphins up close. They play with visitors, creating magic moments. The resort also has top-rated restaurants where you can enjoy great food with ocean views.
A favorite among celebrities and honeymooners.
The Kahala Hotel & Resort is loved by celebrities and honeymooners. It’s a private and luxurious spot for a romantic trip. You can enjoy the beautiful surroundings and take walks on the beach.
Best For: Honeymooners, quiet retreat seekers
- Honeymooners looking for romance and intimacy.
- Individuals seeking a quiet retreat from bustling tourist areas.
- Guests interested in high-end services and exclusive experiences.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Service Rating | 9/10 |
| Rooms Rating | 9/10 |
| Location Rating | 8/10 |
| Food & Beverage Rating | 8/10 |
| Spa & Fitness Rating | 9/10 |
| Attention to Detail Rating | 9/10 |
| Generosity & Value Rating | 9/10 |
| Wow / Hip Factor | 9/10 |
| Architecture & Design Rating | 8/10 |
| Fit to Promise Rating | 9/10 |
| Number of Restaurants On-site | 5 |
| Award Won | Hale Aina award for best Italian restaurant (Arancino’s) in 2018 |
| Room Size | 51 m² / 550 ft² |
| Children Stay Free | For children 17 or younger using existing bedding |
| Complimentary Bike Rentals | 1 per guest |
| Complimentary Shuttle Destinations | 3 (Kahala Mall, Ala Moana Shopping Centre, Waikiki) |
| Complimentary Breakfast | Available for two guests |
8. Queen Kapiolani Hotel – Best Budget Ocean View
The Queen Kapiolani Hotel is perfect for those looking for a budget stay. It’s located at the base of Diamond Head. Here, you’ll find stunning ocean views and a cozy vibe that families love.
Affordable stay with Diamond Head views and vintage charm.
The hotel offers different rooms to fit your needs. Each room has a Serta Dream Mattress for a good night’s sleep. You can see Diamond Head or Waikiki Beach from your private area, giving you a great view.
Walking distance to Waikiki Beach and Honolulu Zoo.
The hotel is close to Waikiki Beach and the Honolulu Zoo. It’s great for families who want to explore. You can have fun at the beach or see animals at the zoo.
Best For: Budget travelers, families
The Queen Kapiolani Hotel is family-friendly. It has air-conditioned rooms with modern features like USB outlets and Bluetooth radios. You’ll also find refrigerators, digital safes, and kitchenettes in some rooms. It’s a smart choice for those on a budget.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Room Types | Junior Suites and Studio rooms with various bed configurations |
| Views | Ocean views of Diamond Head or Waikiki Beach available |
| Maximum Occupancy | Two pets with a combined weight limit of up to 100 lbs |
| Amenities | Air conditioning, 49″ LCD LG television, refrigerators, digital safes |
| Kitchen Facilities | Available in Junior Suites and 1 Bedroom Suites |
| Housekeeping | Daily service for all rooms |
| Sustainability | Green Sustainability Program, 100% smoke-free environment |
10 Best Places to Stay on Oahu: Top Hotels & Regions in Honolulu, Hawaii
Staying at the Courtyard by Marriott North Shore is a great way to see Oahu without spending a lot. It’s close to Waimea Bay and Sunset Beach. This hotel is perfect for your Hawaiian adventure. You can enjoy beautiful coastlines and outdoor activities for nature lovers.
Closest hotel to Waimea Bay and Sunset Beach.
The Courtyard by Marriott North Shore is the closest hotel to Waimea Bay. It’s great for surfers and beach lovers. Families will love the quiet place to relax after a fun day.
Ideal for nature lovers and quiet retreats.
Nature lovers will enjoy the hotel’s peaceful setting. You can try hula and ukulele lessons for free. The hotel is surrounded by nature and close to many attractions.
Best For: Surfers, families, outdoor enthusiasts
The Courtyard by Marriott North Shore is perfect for families, surfers, and outdoor fans. It has 137 rooms for all budgets. You’ll get free Wi-Fi and daily family activities.
| Amenity | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Minutes from Waimea Bay and Sunset Beach |
| Cost | Budget-friendly option under $400 per night |
| Activities | Free family hula and ukulele lessons |
| Guest Rating | 8.6 average based on 901 reviews |
| Parking | Daily fee applicable |
| Dining | Onsite restaurant with no alcohol service |
10. Waikiki Beachside Hostel – Best for Backpackers
Looking for a great deal in Waikiki? The Waikiki Beachside Hostel is your go-to. It’s perfect for backpackers and solo travelers. You’ll find a friendly vibe here, great for making new friends.
They offer both dorms and private rooms. This means you can choose what suits you best.
Budget-friendly dorms and private rooms near Waikiki Beach.
Prices start at just $50 per night here. It’s the cheapest option in Waikiki. You’ll find other places like Backpackers Vacation Inn and Honu Waikiki cost $55.
Each room is comfy and has a lively feel. It’s all about community here.
Great social atmosphere for solo travelers.
This hostel is all about making friends. You’ll meet people from all over. It’s a place to share stories and plan adventures.
Plus, it’s close to Waikiki Beach. You’re just minutes from the beach. It’s perfect for sun, surf, and fun.
Best For: Backpackers, solo travelers
- Free beach gear rentals including bodyboards and chairs
- Common areas for socializing
- Convenient check-in and check-out schedules
| Accommodation | Price per Night | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Waikiki Beachside Hostel | $50 | Budget-friendly with social atmosphere |
| Backpackers Vacation Inn | $55 | Comfortable and centrally located |
| Honu Waikiki | $55 | Welcoming for international travelers |
| The Beach Waikiki Boutique Hostel | $70 | Includes free gear rentals |
The Waikiki Beachside Hostel is great for both relaxing and exploring Oahu. It has everything you need at a fair price.
Insider Tips for Finding the Best Place to Stay on Oahu
Choosing the Best Part of Oahu
Oahu offers a wide range of accommodations, from oceanfront resorts in Waikiki and Honolulu to quiet retreats on the North Shore of Oahu. Figuring out where to stay on Oahu depends on your travel style. If you want to stay near Oahu’s best attractions, the south shore of Oahu is home to world-class resorts like the Sheraton Waikiki, Hilton Hawaiian Village, and Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina.
For a more relaxed experience, the windward side of Oahu—including Kailua and Kaneohe—offers a slower pace with stunning beaches like Lanikai Beach. Meanwhile, the leeward side of the island has hidden gems and luxurious stays, ideal for those looking to escape the crowds.
Why Waikiki and Honolulu Are Popular Choices
Waikiki Beach Resort is one of the most famous areas on Oahu. The Hyatt Regency Waikiki offers stunning views of Diamond Head Crater, and many of the best restaurants and places to eat are within walking distance. If you’re looking for a beach town experience with sandy beaches, great shopping, and nightlife, this is the best option.
For travelers who love history and culture, staying in the heart of Honolulu means easy access to Downtown Honolulu, the Honolulu Zoo and Waikiki Aquarium, and major landmarks like Pearl Harbor.
The North Shore of Oahu: A Surfer’s Paradise
If you’re visiting Oahu in 2024 and want a laid-back, adventurous vacation, the North Shore offers some of the best options. Known for its world-famous North Shore beaches, including Sunset Beach, it’s a wonderful place to unwind and experience island life. Resorts like Turtle Bay Resort, located on the North Shore, provide breathtaking views along the beach.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly place to stay on Oahu, central Oahu and areas on Oahu further from the coastline have affordable options. Ala Moana Beach is a great alternative to the crowded Waikiki area, offering a more relaxed vibe while still being just 30 minutes from Honolulu.
Family-Friendly Stays on Oahu
For families visiting Oahu, Hilton Hawaiian Village is an excellent choice for families with young children. It’s conveniently located on the North Shore and offers easy access to Waikiki Beach and other attractions. If you’re traveling with a family of four and need space, resorts on the south shore of Oahu provide suites and family-friendly amenities.
For a more immersive experience, consider living on Oahu for a few weeks instead of a short trip. Renting a car is essential for exploring hidden gems across the island of Oahu, from places to visit on the coast of Oahu to scenic drives along the leeward side of the island.
Finding the Best Places to Eat
Oahu is home to some of the best restaurants in Hawaii. From fine dining at the Four Seasons Resort Oahu to casual food trucks on the North Shore of Oahu, there’s a beach for everyone who loves good food. Be sure to explore places to eat near Maui and Oahu to experience authentic Hawaiian cuisine.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re staying in a Waikiki Beach Resort, a luxury resort on the south shore of Oahu, or a relaxed spot on the North Shore of Oahu, Oahu offers accommodations for every traveler. Choosing the best part of Oahu comes down to personal preference, but whether you prefer the vibrant heart of Honolulu or the quiet windward side of Oahu, you’re sure to find a wonderful place to stay
Conclusion
Oahu has many places to stay, from fancy resorts to affordable options. Whether you want luxury or something more budget-friendly, you’ll find it here. Waikiki is great for newcomers, with its lively nightlife and fun attractions close to the beach.
Oahu has accommodations for every traveler, from luxury resorts to budget stays.
Waikiki’s beaches and food spots bring in $2 billion each year. It’s a big part of Hawaii’s tourism money. The North Shore is quieter, with beautiful nature and a calm feel. It’s perfect for getting away from city life.
Waikiki is best for first-timers, while the North Shore offers a relaxed escape.
Staying on Oahu, whether in a fancy resort or a cozy guesthouse, promises a memorable trip. You’ll find adventure, relaxation, and culture everywhere. Enjoy this tropical paradise, where every spot offers something special.
