Where to stay on Oahu

Thinking about where to stay on Oahu? In this short article we'll take a look at which areas are your best bet when visiting Oahu.

 

For starters, it may surprise you there are only five major accommodations areas on the island. And for the most part, all the accommodations are packed into one area, Waikiki. For being the most visited island in the chain, you might assume there would be more accommodations spread over the island. In order of popularity, by our account, they are:

1.) Honolulu and Waikiki Beach - several dozen hotels that will appear to both the budget conscience and those seeking luxury accommodations (the bulk of accommodations are here)
2.) Turtle Bay Resort - located on the North Shore, this luxury resort is built on a peninsula that is bordered by two beaches
3.) Ko Olina - Located in southwest Oahu - a small resort community with a variety of both condominiums and hotels.
4.) Kahala Resort - Located on the southeast coast below Waikiki this is another ocean-front luxury resort
5.) Makaha Resort - Located on west Oahu this club features a Championship Golf course surrounded by the Makaha Valley.

 

Looking over that list, we can say with some authority that most visitors will stay in the Honolulu/Waikiki area. The accommodations here are varied enough to suit almost any visitors tastes, including those on a budget. In fact, some of the best deals on the island can be found here. In addition to a variety of accommodations, you'll also find a large selection of shopping, dining options, and nightlife available. Plus there's the most famous beach in Hawaii right in front of you, Waikiki. As far as pricing goes, any accommodation near the beach/water is going to cost a great deal more than those further mauka (inland). There are only eight hotels actually on the beach, and all are fairly pricey - plus one is for the military only. The best deals can often be found a few blocks inland from the beach, so look there for your best prices. Sites like TripAdvisor.com can help you narrow the selection down since it offers traveler reviews and ratings.

 

You may also want to review our articles on When to visit Oahu and about Oahu weather.