All articles

The Best Places to Stay on Hawaii’s O‘ahu Island (That Aren’t in Waikiki) 

For those seeking a blend of serenity, local culture and luxury away from the crowds, Oahu’s diverse regions reveal hidden gems – from the legendary surf of the North Shore to the tranquil lagoons of Ko Olina, the exclusive charm of Kahala and the lush landscapes of the Windward Coast. Discover where to stay on O‘ahu that showcases the island’s authentic spirit, stunning beauty and unique experiences – without the Waikiki hustle.

34 reviewsVery Good8.3
Honolulu, USA
Romer House Waikiki
Boutique Hawaii Oasis in Waikiki with Onsite Dining & Outdoor Pool
1 night, 1 room from
US$255 total with
Non-memberUS$221
View offer
10.0
AnonymousTH
This place offers fantastic value with a prime location that makes shopping and enjoying the pool easy and enjoyable. The cleanliness and well-maintained bathroom facilities add to the comfort, while reliable Wi-Fi and pleasant views enhance the overall experience. Staff are attentive and friendly, making the stay smooth and welcoming.
10.0
AnonymousAU
Hotel was in a great location close to pretty much everything! The pool area was a bit small but why would you need a pool when you have plenty of beautiful beaches just a few minutes away. Staff were also very friendly.
10.0
AnonymousKR
clean, nice staff
10.0
AnonymousAU · 1 escape · 1 review
Fantastic central position, great size room, bar, pool bar and restaurant all top quality and service
10.0
Gloria T.AU · 9 escapes · 1 review
Wonderful stay, only thing I would suggest is the sliding door was very old sometimes it was very hard to close and noisy could hear everything from the road

North Shore 

The North Shore is Oʻahu’s untamed playground, world-famous for massive winter swells. This is where surf culture thrives, set against a backdrop of wild coastline and laid-back charm. Wander through the vintage town of Haleiwa or unwind on uncrowded stretches like Kealia, Waimea Bay, Sunset Beach and Laniakea (Turtle) Beach, where golden sands and clear waters define the raw beauty of the island’s north.

The Ritz-Carlton O’ahu, Turtle Bay 

Spanning 1,300 acres of pristine coastline with five miles of private beach, Ritz-Carlton O’ahu, Turtle Bay pairs breathtaking ocean views with a relaxed, nature-inspired design that reflects the area’s laidback spirit. Steps from iconic surf breaks like Banzai Pipeline and Sunset Beach, it’s ideal for thrill-seekers and beach lovers alike.

Nalu Spa offers treatments inspired by Aloha ʻĀina – a Hawaiian philosophy meaning “love and care for the land” – with oceanfront massages, facials and hydrating rituals. Guests can explore hidden waterfalls on guided hikes, play golf along the coast, relax by the pool or enjoy tennis and pickleball. Farm-to-table dining, featuring produce from nearby Kuilima Farm, rounds out this quintessential North Shore retreat.

Spanning 1,300 acres of pristine coastline with five miles of private beach, Ritz-Carlton O’ahu, Turtle Bay is one of the best places to stay on O’ahu - Luxury Escapes

Ko Olina

Ko Olina, on Oʻahu’s sunny west coast, is calm, curated and luxurious. Named “place of joy” in Hawaiian, this exclusive resort area is framed by man-made lagoons perfect for swimming and relaxing. Just 30 minutes from Honolulu, Ko Olina feels worlds away, providing a polished, resort-style escape with all the amenities of a high-end retreat.

Four Seasons Resort O‘ahu at Ko Olina 

Four Seasons Resort Oʻahu at Ko Olina blends Hawaiian heritage with world-class comfort. Spend slow afternoons by Kohola Lagoon enjoying fresh-caught fish tacos, then unwind with exquisite late-night drinks and bites at Manalo Lounge. At Naupaka Spa, traditional Hawaiian techniques soothe body and soul.

What truly sets this Four Seasons apart is its deep connection to local culture. Try your hand at lei making, paddle an outrigger canoe with a local guide and snorkel in the protected lagoons just steps away, where vibrant fish and coral await beneath the surface.

Kahala 

Kahala, tucked into an upscale enclave just beyond bustling Waikīkī, is a hidden haven of quiet luxury with a refined, residential feel. With easy access to attractions like Diamond Head Crater and a peaceful atmosphere, it’s the ideal base for travellers seeking both convenience and calm.

The Kahala Hotel & Resort 

The Kahala Hotel & Resort is Oʻahu’s premier luxury retreat, known for hosting presidents, royalty and celebrities like Queen Elizabeth II and the Dalai Lama. This secluded haven features a private beach and French-inspired cuisine at Hoku’s Restaurant, just minutes from Honolulu’s shopping and dining districts. Traditional flower leis and sparkling chandeliers welcome guests, while rooms offer stunning Pacific Ocean views.

A standout feature is the unique dolphin lagoon, where guests can interact with Atlantic bottlenose dolphins through educational programs. At Kahala Spa, ancient Hawaiian flower essences and traditional island treatments provide a deeply relaxing experience.

Windward Coast 

The Windward Coast, on Oʻahu’s lush east side, is where nature takes centre stage. This region is defined by dramatic emerald mountains, higher rainfall and stunning ocean views. It’s a haven for whale watchers, families and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a slower pace and a deep connection to the island’s natural beauty.

415 reviewsExceptional9.1
Honolulu, Hawaii
OUTRIGGER Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel
Luxury Escapes inclusions:
clock_with_plusEarly check-in or late checkout, subject to availability (3+ nights)
Dream by Luxury Escapes - The Best Places to Stay on Hawaii's O‘ahu Island (That Aren't in Waikiki) Complimentary room upgrade, subject to availability at time of arrival (3+ nights)
dollar_sign_in_circleUS$100 resort credit per package, per stay (7+ nights)
1 night, 1 room from
US$220total
View offer
10.0
Vanessa B.AU · 6 escapes · 2 reviews
Outrigger Waikiki Beachcomber was the perfect hotel for our holiday. The Hotel is in a perfect location so close to all of the hottest spots in Waikiki and walking distance to everything. Our room was very comfortable and clean and the staff were very nice and helpful. The package was great but the breakfast is limited to just a few basic choices and more choices would have improved our stay. We highly recommend this hotel and package with Luxury Escapes.
10.0
AnonymousAU
We spent 7 nights here during our first trip to Waikiki and I’m so glad we chose to stay here. The room was really comfortable and quiet with the best ocean views and had everything we needed. Location, facilities, pool area, beach towel service, complimentary sunscreen, the gym and undercover parking, plus laundry facilities all within a stones throw from the beach and shops/restaurants all made for the perfect stay. The cafe and brewery in the lobby served great coffee, drinks and snacks and the staff were always so friendly and helpful. Our housekeeper always made us feel welcome and comfortable. We will definitely be back and will recommend it to anyone travelling to Waikiki.
10.0
Louise C.AU · 3 escapes · 3 reviews
Love this hotel! Great sized modern rooms. Breakfast and cocktail vouchers had a great selection to pick from. It's our number 1 pick when going to Honolulu and can't wait to return again.
10.0
AnonymousUS
The location was perfect very close to the beach, shops, and restaurants. The front desk staff was friendly and helpful. The room was clean and the beds was comfortable. The swimming pool is a little small but the hot tub was a nice size. It was a nice stay.
10.0
AnonymousAU
Enjoyed a lovely second stay for second year in a row. Staff were very helpful and accommodating when we requested to move rooms do to building works late into the night over the road. We moved to the Diamondhead side, but beware you can hear the air conditioning units on the Macy's building, especially on lower levels. This noise didn't bother us as much as works on the other side though. Last year we had no noise concerns on the other side. Staff were very helpful and happy to change rooms though, and even let us look at the room before moving. We had included breakfast vouchers for the cafe which was a big bonus. Includes drinks and meals were great. Would be happy to stay again for a third time!

Paradise Bay Resort 

Nestled on the tranquil shores of Kaneohe Bay and framed by the towering Koʻolau Mountains, Paradise Bay Resort offers a rare waterfront retreat that blends natural beauty with genuine Hawaiian serenity. Its intimate connection to the landscape is reflected in yoga and meditation classes, plus a peaceful pool and hot tub, all designed to immerse guests in island calm.

Accommodations range from cosy studios to spacious two-bedroom suites, with some featuring private lanais to enjoy the stunning views. For those seeking complete seclusion, stand-alone waterfront cottages provide an exclusive escape just steps from the bay’s protected waters.

Feature image: The Kahala Hotel and Resort

Nick Rudd

Written by Nick Rudd

Nick is a travel writer who has spent the better part of his adult life exploring over 40 countries and counting. Currently based in France, he's the type of traveller to learn a few words of the local language before arriving, spends an ungodly amount of time researching where to eat and considers a trip a success if he's stumbled onto something that isn't on any map. His writing experience draws on years of getting things wrong, finding things by accident and occasionally discovering somewhere so good he's gone back twice.
Read more articles by Nick »
Nearby Destinations
See all