There are no shortage of places to stay on Oahu! Most visitors stay in bustling Waikiki, which is a neighborhood within the city of Honolulu, as it has the most options, the most restaurants and is walkable to world-famous Waikiki Beach. But of course, there are vacation rentals scattered around the city, and around the island. This is by no means a comprehensive list. These are simply some of my favorite spots that I’ve had experience with; it’d be impossible to try ’em all. Let me know if you’ve been to Oahu and had a great experience at a place I haven’t listed here.

BOUTIQUE HOTELS, WAIKIKI:

The Surfjack | Website | Instagram
Why I love it: The Surfjack is a fun, insta worthy boutique hotel in the heart of Waikiki, easy walking distance to lots of great dining options. It’s not on the beach, the the “wish you were here” pool is the cutest and the rooms, with lanais, are gorgeous too. While you’re there be sure to get drinks by the pool and dine at Mahina and Suns. The prices are affordable for Waikiki.

Whitesands | Website | Instagram
Why I love it: One of my go-to affordable spots in Waikiki because I love the central city location, the pool with bar/restaurant service, and there’s even a hidden speakeasy. Whitesands is one of those old school hotels that’s been renovated and turned into a cool spot with gorgeous decor. I love that it’s only 3 stories and feel intimate and private.

The Laylow | Website | Instagram
Why I love it: Perfect central, city location, palm decor, and the Hideout bar/restuarant is a great spot to grab rooftop drinks and enjoy the city vibes of Waikiki.

The Wayfinder | Website | Instagram
Why I love it: Another one of those trendy, renovated hotels. The pool and poolbar are gorgeous, as are the rooms. A must see spot.

The Romer House | Website | Instagram
Why I love it: cool boutique vibes, walkable to lots of stuff, city views, and be sure to have a drink at the trendy Lei Stand bar.

RESORT HOTELS, WAIKIKI:

Alohilani | Website | Instagram
Why I love it: The Alohilani is my go-to spot for staycations, as I love their huge pool deck and infinity pool that peeks over to the ocean. Less than a block from the beach. This high rise features rooms that are modern, clean and comfortable.

The Modern | Website
Why I love it: The Modern has boutique vibes and is on the smaller side, with crisp clean, white rooms, and I love the pool deck. However, it’s owned by the Hilton, so service is top notch too. It’s located a bit away from the heart of Waikiki, closer to Ala Moana beach, so be aware when booking, but there’s still lots to do on that end of Waikiki and it’s still walkable to lots of stuff too.

The Royal Hawaiian | Website | Instagram
Why I love it: the world famous, classic pink hotel is quite literally the epicenter of Waikiki. Perfect location right on the water and perfect (but crowded) beach with views of Diamond Head. The pool deck is small, but you’ll probably spend most of your time at the beach anyway. Insta worthy, and even if you don’t stay here, check out the hotel and the Mai Tai Beach Bar. Arguably the most famous hotel in all of Hawaii.

The Sheraton | Website | Instagram
Why I love it: This high rise hotel features rooms with lanais facing the ocean and has all the amenities you could want. It’s walking distance to everything and located in the heart of Waikiki right next to the Royal Hawaiian. The Sheraton features an adults only infinity pool that literally overlooks the ocean – one of a kind in Waikiki for sure. You’ll have to fight for a lounge chair, but it’s worth it to snag on, or better yet, rent a private cabana.

NORTH SHORE:

Ritz Carlton Turtle Bay | Website | Instagram
Why I love it: the premier resort of the stunning North Shore of Oahu. This recently renovated hotel is the perfect place to stay and even if you’re not staying here, I recommend stopping for a meal or drinks at one of their gorgeous restaurants or bars. Turtle Bay is world famous for a reason and completely different from the bustle of Waikiki.

KO’OLINA:

The Four Seasons Oahu | Website | Instagram
Why I love it: How can you not love the Four Seasons? Be pampered and enjoy one of their many pools or fine dining options on perhaps Oahu’s most premier resort. Ko’olina seems worlds away from bustling Waikiki, and if you want true resort vibes, this is the area to stay. Enjoy the west side sunsets and seclusion.

Now that you know where to stay check out where to eat and where to drink in Waikiki!