Best Areas to Stay in Oahu: Top Neighborhoods for First-Time Visitors to Hawaii

Raise your hand if you were today years old when you realized that Oahu isn’t the big island? Don’t worry. It was only right before my first trip to Hawaii that I realized that too. Sooooo are you planning your first trip to Hawaii and wondering where to stay in Oahu? The good news is you’ve got A TON of amazing options AND the best areas to stay in Oahu each have their own unique personality.

From the energy of Waikiki and Honolulu to the beach-town charm of Kailua, the surf culture of the North Shore, and the luxury resorts of Ko Olina, choosing the right area can completely shape your first Hawaiian experience. My guide breaks down the top neighborhoods in Oahu so you can find the perfect home base for your island adventure 🏡🌴

One of the major Hawaiian islands, Oahu is often called “The Gathering Place” because it’s the most populated island in the state, and it continues to attract millions of domestic and international travelers each year. It’s easy to see why: Oahu blends unrivaled beaches, stunning mountain scenery and incredible weather with a unique culture and laid back island vibes – perfect for a vacation.

Although it’s the third largest island in Hawaii, Oahu is still pretty small in the grand scheme of things – it’s only about 600 square miles total. Which means you’ll struggle to make a roadtrip last longer than ~2 hours if you’re driving anywhere on the island. But don’t think that means you can just post up anywhere. Where you stay on Oahu matters.

Waikiki and Honolulu buzz with energy, the North Shore slows things down with surf-town vibes, Kailua offers the best local beach experience, and the Westside is home to a huge resort complex, ideal for families and all-inclusive sunseekers (aka meeee) ☀️

If you’re planning your Hawaii vacay and are struggling to decide where to stay in Oahu, then I’ve got you covered. In this blog I’ll show you the best Oahu hotels and the best part of Oahu to stay, depending on what you’re looking for. I’ll show you where to base yourself if traveling with kids and advise you on places to avoid, to help you start planning the best Oahu trip possible. Let’s get into it 👇

Read more on Oahu 🌴

• Top 10 Best (and Completely Legal) Hikes in Oahu You’ll Love
• Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina Review: A Hawaiian Escape to Remember

This site contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them (which will likely go towards overpriced airport wine or buying my dog more unnecessary toys). However, none of that impacts the integrity of my reviews. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Oahu At A Glance: The Best Oahu Hotels

Short on time? Here are my top picks for the best boutique hotels in Oahu, Hawaii:

• Laylow Waikiki (Waikiki)– If you’re wondering where to stay in Oahu for a stylish, design-forward experience, Laylow Waikiki is it. This mid-century-inspired boutique hotel blends modern comfort with island flair, featuring open-air lounges, nightly live music, and a relaxed vibe that’s perfect for couples, solo travelers, and creatives. Ps. the cover photo is from the Laylow 🍍
• The Royal Hawaiian (Waikiki)– For one of the best areas to stay in Oahu with a touch of old-school luxury, The Royal Hawaiian sits right in the heart of Waikiki. Known as the “Pink Palace of the Pacific,” this iconic beachfront resort combines timeless elegance with exceptional service and sweeping ocean views.
• Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina (Westide) – Four Seasons Oahu at Ko Olina delivers modern luxury on the island’s sunny west side. Ko Olina is easily one of the best areas to stay in Oahu. Expect world-class dining, an adults-only infinity pool, and impeccable service for the ultimate five-star Hawaiian experience.
• Courtyard by Marriott Oahu North Shore (North Shore) – Searching for where to stay in Oahu away from the crowds? This laid-back hotel near the Polynesian Cultural Center offers spacious rooms, a family-friendly pool, and easy beach access — making it one of the best areas to stay for exploring the relaxed, surfy North Shore.
• The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Turtle Bay (North Shore) – For ultimate peace and luxury in one of the best areas to stay in Oahu, head to the North Shore and check into The Ritz-Carlton Residences. With oceanfront villas, fine dining, and panoramic coastal views, it’s the ultimate choice for travelers craving a refined and serene escape.

Breakdown of Oahu Neighborhoods

Before diving into all the best things to do in Oahu, let’s quickly talk about the island’s main areas. Each side has its own viiiiibe, and where you stay really depends on what you’re looking for. I love every part of the island but they each serve their own purpose. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Waikiki/Honolulu: This is Oahu’s beating heart and one of the top picks for where to stay in Oahu, especially for first-timers. Think high-rise hotels, endless shopping, restaurants, nightlife, and easy access to iconic spots like Diamond Head. Yes, it’s touristy but also super convenient if you want to be in the middle of everything.

Kailua: Over on the windward (east) side, Kailua is all about laid-back beach town energy. You’ll find some of Oahu’s prettiest beaches (hello, Lanikai) and more local vibes compared to Waikiki. Great if you want to swap skyscrapers for sunrise paddleboarding and chill cafés.

North Shore: If Waikiki is polished, the North Shore is its barefoot, surf-obsessed sibling. Known for world-class waves in winter, food trucks, and a slower pace, it’s perfect if you’re craving a more relaxed, small-town atmosphere. Just a headsup, it’s a bit of a drive from Honolulu so most people split their time between North Shore and Waikiki for a few days. (Even though it’s farther north, it’s still one of the best areas to stay in Oahu).

West Side/Ko Olina: Ko Olina is basically resort territory. (Think luxury hotels, golf courses, and lagoons made for calm swimming). Ko Olina is also home to Four Seasons and Disney’s Aulani, so it’s a solid pick if you want a resort experience away from Waikiki’s bustle. Ironically, the west side of Oahu, past Ko Olina, is mostly a local hangout. Tourists rarely venture farther north since there aren’t many attractions, and the vibe isn’t quite as welcoming as other parts of the island

Ps. Curious what staying at Four Seasons Resort at Ko Olina is really like? I’ve got the full scoop here in this blog post.

Best Areas to Stay in Oahu: Waikiki & Honolulu

If you’re deciding where to stay in Oahu and end up choosing Waikiki, just promise me one thing okay? Just promise me that you WILL venture outside of Honolulu during your trip. I will always happily recommend booking accommodation in this area because you’re spoiled for choice BUT you have to do yourself a favor and see other parts of the island. Pinky promise? Okay cool 😎

Offering everything from luxury beachfront hotels to backpacker friendly hostels, the Hawaiian capital of Honolulu and specifically the famous neighborhood of Waikiki are the obvious base for travelers to Oahu. If you’ve settled on staying in the Hawaiian capital but are trying to work out where to stay in Oahu, then you might as well make it Waikiki.

This district is home to one of Hawaii’s most iconic beaches, a buzzing nightlife scene and a diverse shopping and dining environment too. If you book a whole island tour of Oahu, there’s a 99.9% chance it’ll depart from Waikiki.

And when it comes to accommodation, Waikiki Beach hotels are the best on the island, both in terms of location and facilities. And strong wifi! Especially for someone who works remote like me. If I’m not working, I’ll head east to Kailua but if I have to work Pacific Hours in Hawaii (~5am-2pm), I’ll almost always book myself into The Laylow Waikiki 🍍

There are a couple of downsides to staying in Waikiki though. Its popularity drives up prices and in peak seasons you can sometimes struggle to find a room – both good reasons to book early. Or super last-minute. (Probably most applicable to California residents like myself who can easily get away to Hawaii for the weekend).

If you’re wondering where to stay in Waikiki on a budget, then these issues can be somewhat offset by looking at accommodation a little further away from the heart of Waikiki, in areas like Ala Moana. These tend to be cheaper and less busy, though you will have to travel around a bit more. 

Overtourism is something of an issue in Waikiki too. If you’re after a more traditional and authentic Oahu vacation then you might wish to look elsewhere (aka Kailua). On the whole though, for first timers to the island and those looking for a classic tourist experience, Waikiki is the place to be.

Top Hotel Recommendations near Waikiki & Honolulu

Over the last decade, I’ve easily stayed in over 15+ different hotels in Waikiki. Ranging from 2-stars (back in my poor flight attendant days) to the 5-star Sheraton. Obviously, I prefer the latter these days but it’s also because I’m about to be 35. And you know I love my boutique luxury hotels. So here’s a quick list at my favorite design-forward hotels to book in Waikiki.

• Shoreline Hotel Waikiki – A colorful boutique hotel in one of the best areas to stay in Oahu, featuring a fun tropical design and rooftop pool. Perfect for travelers seeking a stylish yet budget-friendly stay just steps from Waikiki Beach.
• Wayfinder Waikiki – A trendy, mid-range hotel with bold interiors, a lush courtyard pool, and one of Honolulu’s most aesthetic coffee shops on-site—perfect for design lovers and digital nomads.
• Outrigger Waikiki Beachcomber – I actually stayed here with my mom a few years ago and we loved it. Situated in one of the best areas to stay in Oahu, this contemporary beachfront property offers spacious rooms, ocean views, and easy access to Waikiki’s shops and nightlife. We found it really great for those who want convenience without the luxury price tag
• Laylow Waikiki – My favorite hotel in Waikiki! A chic, retro-inspired boutique hotel that blends mid-century style with modern comfort, featuring a lush open-air lanai and nightly live music, ideal for solo travelers, couples, and creatives.
• Sheraton Waikiki – A lively oceanfront resort in one of the best areas to stay in Oahu, featuring sweeping Pacific views, an infinity pool, and family-friendly amenities. If you love infinity pools more than life itself, then the Sheraton Waikiki will blow your mind. It’s probably the #1 reason for booking this hotel. You’ll get EPIC views of the sunset while sipping on a maitai in hand.
• Royal Hawaiian – Nicknamed the “Pink Palace of the Pacific,” this iconic luxury resort in one of the best areas to stay in Oahu. The Royal Hawaiian offers timeless elegance, beachfront access, and impeccable service for those wanting an indulgent, classic Waikiki experience. ANNNND it’s also a wedding venue!! Two of my closest friends got married here a couple years ago and it was DREAMY. Subtle touches of pink everywhere. I’m still thinking about their wedding photos to this day.

Top Things to do in Waikiki & Honolulu

Waikiki is one of the best surf spots in the world for beginners thanks to its long, rolling waves, making it a top choice when deciding where to stay in Oahu. Surf lessons are also one of the most popular activities for tourists.This is where my fiance and I actually learned to surf for the first time. Too bad I don’t have any photos to show you of me treading water for dear life Don’t worry, it wasn’t a pretty sight.

Who would’ve guessed you need a decent amount of arm strength and good cardio capacity to be good at surfing…

If surfing’s not your thing…you can also enjoy snorkeling trips to the protected marine reserve of Hanauma Bay, sunset catamaran cruises, or make the trek to Diamond Head for panoramic views over Honolulu. Or you can always go shopping at Ala Moana, Hawaii’s biggest outdoor shopping center!

Other top-rated activities to check out in Waikiki & Honolulu:

• Pearl Harbor, USS Arizona Memorial & Honolulu City Tour
• Waikiki Trolley Hop-On Hop-Off Tour of Honolulu
• Waikiki Glass Bottom Boat Cruise
• 2-Hour Oahu Whale Watch from Ala Wai Harbor, Waikiki

Best Areas to Stay in Oahu: Kailua

I know this is a post for first-timers so staying in a more “suburby” type area might not be everyone’s cup of tea when figuring out where to stay in Oahu. But do most suburbs have the most beautiful beach in the country? Yeah I didn’t think so!!!

Kailua is on the southeast shore of Oahu, about 20 minutes by car from Honolulu, and not much more from the airport. It’s much smaller and much more laid back than Honolulu and Waikiki but offers many of the same advantages to travelers, namely the stunning sands of Kailua Beach and Lanikai Beach.

The small-town vibes of Kailua will appeal much more to people returning to Oahu for a second of third visit, families, and older visitors looking for a quieter and more peaceful stay, whereas Waikiki and Honolulu in general are much better suited to younger travelers looking to party and take part in more touristy activities.

A couple of other things to note about Kailua to help you decide if it’s one of the best areas for where to stay in Oahu: the town is significantly smaller than Honolulu and public transport is lacking so you’ll need a car. Accommodation in this picturesque town is also limited and strictly regulated, so book early to avoid disappointment.

Top Accommodation Recommendations near Kailua

Kailua doesn’t have many hotels or major chains, so here are my top three VRBO picks instead.

• Kailua oceanfront villa with heated pool & spa — A serene three-bedroom beachfront escape with a private pool, ocean-view hot tub, and firepit deck strung with café lights for cozy evenings by the water. I seriously think anywhere in Kailua can be one of the best areas to stay in Oahu. Perfect for families or small groups, this villa offers a fully equipped kitchen, spacious bedrooms with ensuite baths, and thoughtful touches like high-speed WiFi, smart TVs, and beach loungers.
• Lanikai cottage, steps away from the beach — A charming island-style retreat just one block from the world-famous Lanikai Beach, this one-bedroom cottage is perfect if you’re deciding where to stay in Oahu and want something peaceful. It features acacia hardwood floors, granite countertops, and a cozy wine and coffee nook. With a queen bed, full kitchen setup, and a spacious walk-in shower with Italian tile accents, it’s ideal for couples seeking a relaxed beach escape. You’ll also get beach towels and chairs for sun-soaked days by the water, and it’s just minutes from Kailua’s boutique shops and restaurants.
• Judy’s Beachside Corner, Kailua – A relaxed island-style home perfect for families or long-term guests, featuring two bedrooms (one up, one down) that can be customized for your group size. The upstairs suite includes a king bed, full kitchen, and tub-shower combo, while the downstairs offers a queen bed and futon for extra space. With beach gear ready to go and easy access to Kailua’s shops and restaurants, this clean and fully equipped tropical retreat offers the perfect blend of comfort and local charm for an extended Hawaiian stay.

Top Things to do in Kailua

Just like Waikiki, Kailua is packed with water activities! So something to keep in mind when deciding where to stay in Oahu. You can spend your days paddleboarding, snorkeling, or kayaking out to the Mokes.

The number one activity though? A sunrise hike to the Lanikai Pillboxes. Easily one of the best hikes on the island, the Lanikai Pillbox trail rewards you with wide-open coastal views.

And while Kailua doesn’t have the massive malls of Honolulu, its boutique shops give you plenty of chances for a little retail therapy 🛍️

Want more Hawaii hiking inspo? I’ve rounded up the top 10 best hikes in Oahu that you can’t miss.

Other top-rated activities to check out in Kailua:

• Kailua Bay: Epic Kayak and Snorkel to Islands with Lunch
• Mokulua Islands Self-Guided Kayak Adventure
• Guided Kayak Tour to Kailua’s Twin Islands
• Private surf, kayak, or SUP lesson on Lanikai Beach

Best Areas to Stay in Oahu: North Shore

Known for its big surf and laid back beach vibes, the North Shore of Oahu offers travelers something a bit different. This is one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in the world, and regarded by many as the globe’s surf capital too. (If you surf, you’d probably think this is easily the best area to stay in Oahu).

If you’re visiting for the winter surf then this is the best part of Oahu to stay – just make sure you book early, as accommodation can fill up fast. Waves along the North Shore can reach up to 30 feet in winter, whilst the calmer seas of summer are perfect for snorkeling.

With other water-based activities like shark cage diving and scuba diving available up here too, the North Shore is one of the top picks for where to stay in Oahu for visitors looking to embrace nature.

Haleiwa is your most likely destination if you choose to base yourself along the North Shore for your Oahu vacation, it’s packed with accommodation options as well as shops and places to eat.

And it’s worth knowing that despite being about as far it’s possible to get from the airport on Oahu, thanks to the island’s compact size, it’s still only around 45 minutes by car.

Top Hotel Recommendations near North Shore Oahu

• Courtyard by Marriott Oahu North Shore – A laid-back, family-friendly hotel located steps from the Polynesian Cultural Center, this spot is one of the best areas to stay in Oahu. It offers modern rooms, a spacious pool, and easy access to the island’s best beaches—perfect for travelers seeking comfort and value on the North Shore.
• Oceanfront Vacation Villas at Turtle Bay – Spacious, resort-style villas in one of the best areas to stay in Oahu, featuring full kitchens, private lanais, and sweeping ocean views—perfect for families or groups who want the privacy of a vacation rental with access to Turtle Bay’s world-class amenities.
• The Ritz-Carlton O‘ahu, Turtle Bay (formerly Turtle Bay Resort) – A luxurious oceanfront escape set on Oahu’s North Shore, this resort is a top choice when deciding where to stay in Oahu. It features upscale villas, fine dining, and stunning coastal scenery—perfect for travelers seeking a serene and indulgent island retreat.

If you’re looking for 5-star luxury that’s a bit closer to the action, then check out my blog post on why Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina might be the perfect fit.

Top Things to do in North Shore Oahu

If you’re craving an adrenaline rush, shark cage diving in Oahu is about as epic as it gets.

Just off the coast of Haleiwa, you’ll find plenty of trusted tour operators ready to take you a few miles out where Galapagos and sandbar sharks glide beneath the surface. And if you’re really lucky, you might even spot a tiger shark.

Depending on the season, green turtles, dolphins, and even humpback whales sometimes make an appearance too! Just another reason why the North Shore is such a special area when deciding where to stay in Oahu.

It’s one of those unforgettable North Shore experiences that’ll have your heart racing (just maybe skip watching Jaws on the flight over).

Annnnd if you’re terrified of sharks like my husband is….then I’d recommend chilling with the friendly sea turtles. it’s called Turtle Bay for a reason!

Other top-rated activities to check out in North Shore:

• North Shore Oahu Shark Cage Diving
• North Shore Cage-free Shark Diving
• Small Group North Shore Circle Island Tour Oahu
• Snorkel with Turtles & Explore Turtle Beach

Best Areas to Stay in Oahu: Westside & Ko Olina

Also known as the Leeward Coast, Oahu’s less developed and sunnier Westside is the region most often neglected by travelers, with one obvious exception. The Westside is home to Ko Olina, a huge resort complex located around 45 minutes from Waikiki.

It’s packed with all-inclusive hotels, golf courses, and four massive man-made lagoons for swimming and snorkeling. It’s not very authentic and won’t be to everyone’s taste, but for families (check out Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa) or those more interested in sunbathing by the pool and sipping all-inclusive cocktails than surfing, hiking, and shark cage diving, it’s one of the best areas in Oahu to stay.

And you CAN still do all those things from a base in Ko Olina, it may just take a touch of planning and some well organized day trips.

The rest of Oahu’s Westside is more local, residential and less touristy. You’ll find less accommodation and fewer facilities here once you get away from the resort.

There are some wonderful highlights here, such as the remote nature reserve at Ka’ena Point, but unless you’re staying at one of the Ko Olina resorts, I wouldn’t recommend basing yourself along the Westside.

Especially with Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina located in one of the best areas in Oahu to stay — why leave? 🤪

Top Hotel Recommendations near Ko Olina

• Marriott’s Ko Olina Beach Club – A relaxed oceanfront resort offering spacious villa-style accommodations with full kitchens, multiple pools, and easy lagoon access—perfect for families or groups seeking a comfortable and convenient stay on Oahu’s west side.
• Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa – A family-focused resort that blends Hawaiian culture with Disney magic, featuring themed pools, character experiences, and a world-class spa. If you have kids, this is easily one of the best areas to stay in Oahu.
• Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina – A five-star beachfront sanctuary combining modern luxury with island tranquility, this resort is one of the best areas to stay in Oahu, offering exceptional dining, an adults-only infinity pool, and personalized service for travelers craving an indulgent Hawaiian escape. Oh did I mention there’s a secret rooftop speakeasy? Check out all the details below.

Want a closer look at Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina? You can read my full blog post here.

Top Things to do near Ko Olina

Ko Olina’s four lagoons are some of the calmest swimming spots on Oahu, with clear turquoise water and soft sand that’s perfect for snorkeling and floating around in. Each lagoon is connected by a scenic oceanfront path that’s great for sunrise walks or sunset strolls.

If you’re into golf, the nearby Ko Olina Golf Club offers an incredible 18-hole course that was designed by the legendary Ted Robinson. It’s frequently ranked the best golf course in Hawaii and often makes the cut (no pun intended) on rankings of the best golf courses in the US.

Ps. you don’t actually need to be staying in Ko Olina to play this championship course: it’s open to all.

Other top-rated activities to check out near Ko Olina:

• Swim with Dolphins on the West Coast of Oahu
• Ko Olina Catamaran Sail and Snorkel
• Planet & Star Tour Show at Ko Olina
• Complete Pearl Harbor History Remembered Tour from Ko Olina
• Play an 18-hole round at Ko Olina Golf Club

Where to Stay in Oahu With Family

Families are spoiled for choice in Oahu, with the whole island feeling pretty family-friendly. Ko Olina is the obvious choice, with calm lagoons, lifeguards, kids clubs and resorts owned by companies like Disney offering all sorts of family friendly activities and entertainment. 

For a more authentic Oahu vacation, the slower pace of Kailua is great for families if you can find accommodation. And although it’s busy, Waikiki remains one of the best areas to stay in Oahu, with the best tourist infrastructure, transport connections, and access to tours and other family-friendly activities.

It depends on your risk tolerance, but I’d probably avoid the North Shore with children, especially during winter when the big waves and huge crowds can make beaches unsafe. Not to mention the longer car rides to get to other parts of the island unless your little one does well in the car.

Looking for a resort that perfectly balances luxury for adults with fun for families? Check out my blog post on Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina.

Top-rated family friendly activities to check out in Oahu:

• Mauka Warriors Luau Honoring Polynesia’s Forgotten History
• Full-day Hanauma Bay Snorkeling
• Moana’s Sunset Sail Along Oahu’s Waikiki Coast
• Waikiki Turtle Snorkeling Boat Tour and Adventure

Where Not to Stay in Oahu

Crime is relatively low across Oahu (I say low because I come from San Francisco but in general, it’s pretty tame compared to other places in America) so deciding where not to stay comes down much more to costs and infrastructure.

For a small island, especially one that attracts vast numbers of tourists, quite a lot of Oahu is quite remote.

Lacking in tourist infrastructure and attractions, these areas are best avoided when looking for a place to stay, even if some are truly beautiful and worth visiting if you can.

The more residential areas of the Westside away from Ko Olina don’t offer much for visitors, whilst you’ll find it almost impossible to find somewhere to stay beyond Kailua on the northeast coast. 

Waikiki is otherworldly, and much of Honolulu makes for a great base for exploring Oahu, but the city’s downtown (near Chinatown) is geared much more towards business rather than tourists.

You might find cheaper hotels here which are worth considering if you’re on a budget, but I think you’ll find any savings are offset by the time and money spent traveling around the city – best to bite the bullet and find a nice beachfront hotel in Waikiki!

Where to Stay in in Oahu: Final Thoughts

And there you have it! Hopefully you found that helpful for deciding on where to stay in Oahu!

The most populous island in Hawaii might be small, but it packs a ton of variety when it comes to where to stay in Oahu. Most of the island is pure paradise aka turquoise water, golden beaches, and palm trees that look straight out of a screensaver. Plus, with everything within about 30ishhh minutes of Honolulu Airport, you don’t have to stress about long drives once you land.

Where you stay in Oahu really comes down to what kind of trip you’re after. Want the buzz of Honolulu with endless restaurants, bars, and oceanfront hotels? Then stay in Waikiki!

If you’re craving something slower and more local, Kailua and the North Shore are perfect for that barefoot, beach-town feel.

And for families or anyone looking for a resort-style escape, Ko Olina on the west side is hard to beat.

No matter where you stay in Oahu, I promise you’ll find endless sunshine, ocean-waves, and that aloha spirit 🤙

Where did you end up staying in Oahu? Let me know in the comments below!

Visiting other parts of Oahu?

Check out my other travel guides on Oahu here!

Visiting other parts of Hawaii?

Check out my other travel guides on Hawaii here!

Looking for travel inspiration to somewhere else?

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