Where to Stay In Oahu: Best Hotels from Waikiki to North Shore

Hawaii is, without a doubt, one of the most dreamy holiday destinations you could ever imagine. And let me tell you, the island of Oahu is definitely one big reason why we're all daydreaming about it.

Oahu is just one of those islands that seems to have it all – from lively cities like the state capital Honolulu to stunning cliffs and beaches up at the North Shore.

Flying from Australia to the US, I decided to make a stopover and drove around the Hawaiian island of Oahu to discover everything from world-class surf beaches to pineapple farms.

Oahu is one of the busiest islands of Hawaii, and it's especially popular among US mainland tourists who enjoy the many luxury resorts that can be found here. That being said, it totally makes sense for you to have an idea of where you want to stay on your next Hawaiian vacation so you can make the most of it.

So I've put together a guide with my favorite areas, beaches, and hotels on the island to help you decide where to stay in Oahu.

Best areas to stay in Oahu

South/East

In the south of Oahu, you'll find Honolulu, which is a buzzing major city and the capital of Hawaii. Naturally, this is where you'll find the best nightlife, restaurants, and entertainment in areas like Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head, and Ala Moana shopping mall. But hey, there are also a few hidden gems like Kailua on the opposite side of Honolulu, a rad little surfer town right on the East Coast.

North/West

Most places outside of Honolulu are way quieter and more laid back, and the North Shore and West Coast areas are perfect examples of that. You'll find plenty of awesome surf spots, cute little towns, and a super relaxed vibe away from the crowds.

1. Where to stay in Oahu for the first time & nightlife: Waikiki

You very likely have heard about the famous Waikiki Beach before, it's the most touristy and popular area in Oahu. I also think it's the best choice for your first time on the island.

It's right in the center of Honolulu, has great luxury accommodations, and makes for a great base to explore the rest of Hawaii's capital and even the rest of the island. All the major hotels can be found in Waikiki.

In Waikiki, you'll find everything you need for an awesome vacation, from amazing food and freshly made cocktails on every corner. And, of course, the star of the show here is Waikiki Beach, one of Hawaii's coolest beaches.

Best area for:

• First-timers

• Nightlife

• Beach vacation

• Luxury resorts

• Older traveler demographic

Things to see & do in Waikiki

For an awesome beach vacation in Hawaii, there's one thing you absolutely can't miss: cocktails! Waikiki is the ultimate spot for beach bars and amazing handcrafted drinks. Make sure to hit up my top two favorites: The Beach Bar and Mai Tai Bar, which is part of The Royal Hawaiian Resort.

If you're up for something a bit more relaxing, why not hop on one of the many glass-bottom tours that depart from Waikiki? The boat will cruise around the island, giving you a chance to discover all the shipwrecks and marine life that Oahu has to offer.

Best hotels to stay in Waikiki

($$$) Moana Surfrider

Moana Surfrider at Waikiki Beach stands as the epitome of luxury in Waikiki, offering a prime location just steps from the beach. With its upscale amenities, including a freshwater pool, private beach area, and state-of-the-art fitness center, along with elegant rooms featuring ocean or city views, the resort creates a tranquil escape.

Check availability & best rates

($$) Wayfinder Waikiki

Wayfinder Waikiki is a great value-for-money hotel set back from the beach. The hotel overlooks Ala Wai golf course and has an outdoor swimming pool and super cozy rooms.

Check availability & best rates

($$) Aqua Oasis

Aqua Oasis is a fantastic mid-range option for your stay in Waikiki. It is a cozy little hotel that offers spacious hotel rooms and an outdoor pool and is within walking distance of the beach.

Check availability & best rates

($) Waikiki Resort Hotel

If you are looking for something more affordable, the Waikiki Resort Hotel is your best bet. This hotel offers great value for money, and you'll have easy access to the beach as well as all the major attractions in Honolulu.

Check availability & best rates

2. Where to stay in Oahu for couples & outdoor activities: Diamond Head

If you're looking for the perfect blend of city and nature, then staying around Diamond Head is your best bet! It's one of the most amazing places to stay in Hawaii and on Oahu if you're an outdoor enthusiast or want to enjoy some alone time with your partner.

Diamond Head is conveniently close to Waikiki, so you can enjoy the beach, check out the local shops and restaurants, and still stay in a quieter area.

The cool thing about Diamond Head is that it was once a volcano, and today you still have the Diamond Head Crater in the area, which is Oahu's most famous landmark.

Best area for: 

• Couples

• Hiking

• A mix of city & nature

Things to see & do in Diamond Head

The Diamond Head Crater is an absolute must-visit during your stay in Oahu. If you decide to tackle the steep but rewarding hike, it's about 2.5 km roundtrip, making it a perfect activity for both adults and kids, especially in the morning.

The easiest and best way to experience it is by joining one of the guided tours. Not only will the guide share important information about the crater and the island with you, but you'll also have convenient hotel transfers included.

Upon reaching the summit, prepare to be amazed by the stunning panoramic vistas of Waikiki, Diamond Head Beach, and the majestic Koolau Mountains.

Once you head back down, I can also recommend having a delicious acai bowl at Barefoot Beach Cafe at Queen's Surf Beach.

Best hotels to stay in Diamond Head

($$$) Queen Kapiolani Hotel

Queen Kapiolani Hotel is the perfect place to stay for couples looking for a romantic getaway. This charming hotel offers stunning views of Waikiki and Diamond Head and features a huge outdoor pool and hot tub area with plenty of lounge chairs.

Check availability & best rates

($$) Park Shore Waikiki

Park Shore Waikiki is a great mid-range option for couples looking to stay in the Diamond Head area. The hotel offers spacious rooms and multiple restaurants.

Check availability & best rates

($) Hotel Renew

If you're after something more affordable but still luxurious, Hotel Renew is your best choice. This hotel offers modern rooms and an outdoor pool, plus stunning views of Diamond Head from the top-floor suites.

Check availability & best rates

3. Where to stay in Oahu for a laid-back vibe: Kailua

If you're looking to escape the crowds and stay somewhere with a more laid-back and less touristy vibe, then Kailua is the perfect spot for you. 

Kailua is a small community in Oahu that has evolved into the wellness hub of the island over the years. Here, you'll find plenty of amazing restaurants, cafes, and spas where you can simply unwind. 

It's also a fantastic area if you're interested in exploring the island on your own and getting off the beaten path. You'll find numerous great hikes and beaches where you might just be the only person around.

Best area for:

• Relaxation

• Hiking

• Wellness

Things to see & do in Kailua

Kailua Beach and Lanikai Beach are the most pristine beaches in the area and are ideal if you want to enjoy a day of swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. If you don't mind a little bit of a drive (about 15 minutes), head to Waimanalo Beach for an even more secluded spot.

If you're looking for a spot to grab lunch after a morning at the beach and you're in the mood for something healthy, then Nalu Health Bar and the Beet Box Cafe are my go-to places in Kailua. They serve up delicious smoothie bowls and coffee.

Best hotels to stay in Kailua

($$$) Beautiful Guest House

This beautiful guest house near Kailua Beach is the perfect place for travelers looking for a laid-back feel and a quiet atmosphere. The guesthouse offers cozy rooms and a little garden and is within walking distance of Kailua Beach.

Check availability & best rates

($$) Kailua Beach Cottage

Kailua Beach Cottage is a great mid-range choice and one of the best vacation rentals in Kailua. The cottage offers spacious rooms and a small yard and is within walking distance of Kailua Beach.

Check availability & best rates

($$) Sunshine Cottage

If you're looking for something more affordable, Sunshine Cottage, just steps from Kailua Beach, is the perfect place for you. This cozy cottage offers bright and airy rooms, a fully equipped kitchen as well as a huge living area, perfect for a family vacation.

Check availability & best rates

4. Where to stay in Oahu for beaches & surfing: North Shore

The North Shore of Oahu is seriously one of my absolute favorite places! I rented a car from Honolulu (I recommend using Discover Cars for the best deal) and drove around the island and stayed on the North Shore for a few nights.

In the summer, you'll discover white sand beaches, epic snorkeling spots, adorable turtles, and the coolest surfer town vibes ever. And when winter rolls around, the North Shore transforms into the ultimate surfer's paradise with the world-famous Banzai Pipeline!

Oahu's North Shore is the ideal playground for beach bums! It's ideal for families, couples, backpackers, and eco-friendly travelers in the summer and an absolute dream for surfers and enthusiasts in the winter. 

Best area for:

• World-renowned surf breaks

• Beach lovers

• Laid-back vibes

• Food truck culture

• Small beach towns

Things to see & do in North Shore

Cruise through Haleiwa Town and simply immerse yourself in the laid-back vibe. Order a coffee at Island Vintage Coffee. For lunch, head to the food trucks along Kamehameha Highway, I had the famous shrimp at Giovanni's Shrimp Truck, which I can highly recommend!

Another awesome activity nearby is sea turtle spotting in Turtle Bay, about a 20-minute drive from Pipeline. The bay is home to 25-30 Green Hawaiian sea turtles, and you can spot them while snorkeling or simply hanging out on the beach. A little bit further, you'll find Climb Works Zipline if you're in for an adrenaline rush.

If you are more keen to dive into the region's culture, then check out the Polynesian Cultural Center. It offers interactive experiences and shows, such as hula shows and luaus.

Best hotels to stay in North Shore

($$$) Turtle Bay Resort

The famous Turtle Bay Resort is one of the best luxury resorts on the North Shore, right at Turtle Bay. Turtle Bay Resort offers everything you would expect, including multiple pools, a golf course, helicopter tours, and a beach lounge. If you can afford to stay here, do it!

Check availability & best rates

($$) Courtyard by Marriott Oahu North Shore

The Marriott Oahu is a slightly more affordable, yet still luxurious, hotel located along Kamehameha Highway and a great spot to explore the North Shore of Oahu. It offers a large outdoor pool, spacious rooms and suites, and various dining options.

Check availability & best rates

($) Kalani Hawaii Private Lodging

If you want to stay on the North Shore but don't want to break the bank, Kalani Hawaii Private Lodging is your best pick. This simple and cozy accommodation offers basic but comfortable rooms and a great location right on the beach. It's also very close to Pipeline.

Check availability & best rates

5. Where to stay in Oahu for families: Ala Moana

Ala Moana is an awesome neighborhood in Honolulu and one of the top places to stay in Oahu for families. It's just a short walk from Waikiki Beach and right next to Ala Moana Beach Park, which is super popular with locals and tourists alike. 

It's perfect if you want to be close to all the action, but not too close. Ala Moana gives you the best of both worlds: easy access to Waikiki and its bars and restaurants, but also a quiet vibe so you can get a good night's sleep.

Best area for:

• Families

• Sightseeing

• Close to the largest outdoor shopping mall

Things to see & do in Ala Moana

The highlight near Ala Moana is definitely visiting Pearl Harbor and taking the boat to the USS Arizona Memorial, which you can also get to easily from other parts of Honolulu.

I walked away, having learned a lot about the tragic history that unfolded here in WWII. The best way to do it is by joining a city sightseeing tour that takes you to all the iconic landmarks in Honolulu, with entry fees included.

Best hotels to stay in Ala Moana

($$$) Prince Waikiki

Prince Waikiki is a great family-friendly option for those looking to stay in Ala Moana. The upscale hotel provides exceptional facilities, including an outdoor pool, spa, and fitness center, along with generously sized rooms that showcase ocean vistas.

Check availability & best rates

($$) Ala Moana Hotel

The Ala Moana Hotel is a great and more affordable, family-friendly hotel in Ala Moana. This hotel offers comfortable rooms and an outdoor pool, and it also has a supermarket on site.

Check availability & best rates

($) Pagoda Hotel

The Pagoda Hotel is a great budget-friendly option in Ala Moana. This hotel offers great value for money and it's within walking distance of the Ala Moana Shopping Center, where you can find plenty of shopping and dining options.

Check availability & best rates

6. Where to stay in Oahu away from the crowds: Leeward Coast (West Oahu)

The West Coast or Leeward Coast of Oahu is just as stunning as my beloved north shore in terms of natural beauty. But here's the best part: it's the ultimate escape from the crowds! Most tourists won't make it out here, so you'll have the perfect tranquility for your vacation.

Imagine yourself on the beach, sipping cocktails, snorkeling with turtles, and having the whole place to yourself, accompanied only by your loved ones. That's what West Oahu is like.

Best area for:

• Families

• Couples

• Seclusion

Things to see & do on the Leeward Coast

The west coast probably has the best spots for snorkeling with Hawaiian sea turtles on the entire island.

The best spot is Electric Beach, which offers crystal clear waters and beautiful marine life. The easiest way to do that is to join a guided snorkeling trip that will take you out on a boat to the best spots and provide you with all the snorkeling equipment.

Head to K'Olina Beach for watersports or if you're a golfer, Ko Olina Golf Club needs to be on your list!

Best hotels to stay in Leeward Coast

($$$) Disney Aulani Resort

Disney Aulani Resort, located on the shores of Ko Olina, West Oahu, offers a magical blend of Disney's signature charm and Hawaiian culture. With luxurious accommodations, family-friendly activities, and a beautiful beachfront setting, staying at Aulani will surely be a vacation experience remembered for guests of all ages.

Check availability & best rates

($$$) Four Seasons Resort Oahu

The Four Seasons Resort Oahu is the perfect place to stay if you're looking for a more secluded tropical getaway. The resort offers luxurious rooms with stunning views of the mountain and ocean, plus multiple restaurants serving delicious cuisine.

Check availability & best rates

($$) Embassy Suites By Hilton Oahu

The Embassy Suites By Hilton Oahu is a great mid-range option for those looking to stay away from the hustle and bustle of Waikiki. This hotel offers contemporary accommodations, an outdoor pool, and an array of local activities, including whale watching and outdoor expeditions.

Check availability & best rates

($$) Spacious 2 BR Beach House

If you want to be really away from the crowds, this Spacious 2 BR Beach House is a great pick. The house offers a fully equipped kitchen and it's within walking distance of Lualualei beach, perfect for some quiet time in nature. 

Check availability & best rates

Where to stay in Oahu – Frequently Asked Questions

💸 Is Oahu expensive?

Oahu, being an island in Hawaii, can be a bit more pricey than the mainland US. However, you can still have a great time by opting for budget accommodations, using public transport, and maybe even cooking in your own kitchenette for a night or two.

🚗 Do I need a car in Oahu?

Not necessarily. If you're planning to stay in Waikiki or within Honolulu, you won't need a car since there is plenty of public transportation and taxi services in the area. However, if you plan to explore other parts of Oahu, I highly recommend renting a car, as public transportation outside of the city is very limited. A rental car will give you ultimate time and location flexibility which I like a lot!

📍 What is the best area to stay in Oahu?

Waikiki is often considered one of the best areas to stay in Oahu for its iconic beach, vibrant nightlife, and easy access to dining, shopping, and cultural attractions. Ala Moana and Diamond Head are very close to Waikiki but a bit more quiet. The North Shore is another popular choice, especially for those seeking a more laid-back atmosphere and world-famous surf spots. Both areas offer distinct experiences, so the best choice depends on your preferences for activities and ambiance. If you're into a more quiet choice altogether, try the Leeward Coast.

❓ Should I stay in Oahu or Maui?

Oahu is great for city life and nightlife, as it has plenty of restaurants, bars, shopping centers, and tourist attractions. Maui offers a more relaxed atmosphere with beautiful beaches and lots of outdoor activities such as hiking and whale watching. 

✔️ Which area in Oahu is good for budget travelers?

The area of Waikiki in Oahu is often suitable for budget travelers due to its wide range of accommodation options, including budget-friendly hotels and hostels. You can also find some budget gems on the North Shore if you opt to stay in smaller towns, which in turn, however, might mean you need to rent a car to get to places.

Where to stay in Oahu – Final Words

Oahu is seriously an island that has it all! You'll find some of the most amazing white sand beaches, awesome surf, a bustling city, and plenty of luxury resorts if that's your vibe. Oahu is a solid choice for first-timers visiting Hawaii, and it's also a perfect introduction if you want to explore the other islands.

I hope that my guide with my favorite areas in Oahu helped you make a decision on where to stay in Oahu.