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I'm an Oahu local, and while it might seem like every hotel in Waikiki is the same, they're not.
- These are the only hotels I recommend to friends. They have the best beaches, amenities, and rooms.
- Visit Insider's hub for travel guides, tips, and recommendations.
As someone who grew up on Oahu, I get excited any time a friend from the mainland visits because I know they're in for a treat.
Oahu has the right balance of urban activity and natural beauty to keep you occupied, from world-class surfing at Pipeline to historical spots like Iolani Palace. As the most developed island, it's also where you'll find the most restaurants, shops, breweries, and perhaps most importantly, hotels.
Oahu seems to have the most hotel options in all of Hawaii, and finding the right one might feel overwhelming. You can stay in town (what we call Honolulu proper) or Waikiki, and you'll be central to everything, but also in the middle of a lot of busy urban activity. You can escape to the North Shore for a slower-paced surf vibe, but then you'll be far from most things to do.
As an Oahu local, I've spent significant time in almost every hotel, either on a staycation or while visiting family and friends. And while it might seem like every hotel lining Waikiki is somewhat the same, trust me, they're not. A select few offer the best locations, amenities, and rooms, and the best strategy is to focus on what you want to do the most and apply that to my list of choices below.
These are the only hotels I feel confident recommending to friends and family, knowing they'll have the Hawaiian vacation they've always envisioned. Now, it's your turn.
For luxury seekers: Four Seasons Resorts Oahu at Ko Olina
Located on the west side of Oahu, the Four Seasons Resorts Oahu at Ko Olina is a luxurious oasis tucked away from the commotion of town, while still offering plenty of ways to enjoy what the island has to offer. The location also couldn't be any better — with the sun setting in the west and the resort situated right on the water, I'm always blown away by the show the sky puts on at night, turning exquisite shades of cotton candy daily.
During the day, relax at the ocean lagoon or the adults-only heated infinity pool, or take advantage of the free kid's program, complimentary paddleboard rentals, and nearby Maili Pillbox hike excursion. I highly recommend making dinner reservations at Mina's Fish House, the only restaurant in the world with a fish sommelier who tells you about the local catches of the day. It's a true island experience. There's also the award-winning Naupaka Spa for relaxing treatments using Hawaiian botanicals in private outdoor hales (houses).
For a stay in the center of the action: Waikiki Marriott Beach Resort and Spa
Ultimately, most accommodations on Oahu are in Waikiki. While this area is arguably the most hectic part of the island, it's still a good place for tourists, especially first-timers. Waikiki Marriott Beach Resort and Spa is a great choice facing the acclaimed Waikiki Beach with its great restaurants, shops, and the world-famous Queen's Surf break, which the hotel offers a rare bird's eye view over.
The hotel recently renovated its third-floor pool deck into a calming place away from the crowds below, and families can rent a poolside cabana, play cornhole, and splash in the pool, all while sipping a drink from the Queensbreak restaurant. I recommend the Oooh Bae, a piña colada with ubae syrup, made from purple Filipino yam.
For budget travelers who aren't fussy: Queen Kapiolani Hotel
Located at the end of Waikiki, the Queen Kapiolani Hotel is an affordable boutique hotel that's steps away from the beach. I've booked a few staycations here because I think it offers such good value for the price, and it's pet-friendly, too.
Just don't expect total luxury. The rooms are modern and simple, but many come with unparalleled views of Diamond Head since this is one of the last hotels on the main strip of Waikiki.
There's also a pool, fitness center, and rooftop restaurant aptly called the Deck, which has a wonderful happy hour with live music a few times a week. The hotel also pays tribute to Queen Kapiolani herself; you can see portraits of the royal family around the hotel, and right across the street is her namesake 200-acre public park, which was land donated by her husband, King David Kalakaua, in the late 1800s.
For influencers and couples on a romantic getaway: The Laylow
If you're the type to post your travels on Instagram, then you should definitely check out The Laylow. Located in central Waikiki, this design-forward boutique hotel stands out for bold aesthetics like midcentury modern furniture alongside tropical swinging rattan egg chairs and monstera-leaf-inspired wallpaper.
I stayed here once and think the stylish but intimate setting is perfect for couples and honeymooners who want to stay somewhere chic but not overpriced. I recommend the trendy open-air restaurant, the Hideout, for evening drinks next to a cozy fire pit, and think that the hotel makes a great base given its prime location just steps from the shops and restaurants of the International Marketplace and the beach.
For world-class amenities, peace, and quiet: Turtle Bay Resort
Turtle Bay Resort is an iconic luxury resort on Oahu, perhaps most recognizable as the filming location for the movie "Forgetting Sarah Marshall."
I used to come here for staycations as a kid with my family, but have seen it change over the years, and it's been recently renovated to exude an upscale, boho vibe with rattan furniture and an infinity pool. It's a high-end resort and well-suited to anyone who wants to get away from the noise of the city and is willing to pay the price.
Couples and honeymooners will love the remote, romantic feel, while families will appreciate tons of amenities from horseback riding to 12 miles of hiking and biking trails, and surf lessons from pro surfer Jamie O'Brien.
Be sure to dine at Alaia, which uses local ingredients sourced from an on-site farm, and book a reservation outside around sunset.
For young travelers who want a lively vibe: The Surfjack
The Surfjack sits tucked away off the main strip in Waikiki, but it's worth being a few steps away from the action. The Instagram-friendly hotel (the bottom of the pool reads "Wish you were here!") hosts events each month, like festive poolside-themed parties, and the rooms are very comfortable.
I sometimes come here just to work in the coffee shop because the open-air space is so inviting. If you want a young, lively vibe and don't care much for a hotel spa or fitness center, it's a great choice, and off-site parking is free.
For those who like the beach but not the crowds: Kaimana Beach Hotel
When I want a Waikiki stay away from the crowds, I book a room at the affordable but still chic Kaimana Beach Hotel. This Waikiki staple has sat next to the slope of Diamond Head since 1963 and is an ideal pick for guests who want to be within walking distance of the restaurants and shops of Waikiki but still be able to relax away from the noise. Kaimana Beach is in front of the hotel and, to me, feels less crowded than the main drag of Waikiki Beach. Plus, if you're a surfer, there are some nice breaks like Publics within walking distance.
For families and kids at heart: Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa
Families and those who love the magic of Disney will think it's worth the splurge to stay at Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, located on the west side of Oahu in Ko Olina near the Four Seasons.
While it's far from most activities on Oahu, there's really no need to leave once you're here. The resort injects Disney wonder into every moment with seemingly endless amenities, including Disney character meet-and-greets and the Waikolohe Valley pool area, which features a private lagoon filled with fish, a lazy river, and water slides. Rooms are spacious and well-appointed, and if you're someone who loves Disney hotels or cruises, it's a must-book for a similar level of service and that family-friendly atmosphere only Disney can create.
For a classic Hawaiian experience: Royal Hawaiian Resort
Dubbed the "Pink Palace," the Royal Hawaiian Resort is iconic to Waikiki. Recognizable by its bright fuchsia exterior, the beloved resort has a long history in Hawaii, having first opened in 1927, before Hawaii was even a state. The hotel offers a historical tour to guests every Tuesday.
It's also said to be located where King Kamehameha I once had his home overlooking the ocean. These days, the sprawling property has been updated to feel modern with a touch of Hawaiian style. It directly faces the water, and families or big groups won't lack things to do. Hang out by the two pools, dine at five on-site eateries, or keep energetic kids entertained with children's programs.
View Insider's comprehensive guide to visiting Oahu.