Oahu

5 Best Oahu Honeymoon Resorts

Hawaii is one of the top honeymoon destinations in the world and for good reason…it’s tropical, it has all of the amenities and activities you could want, and it’s relatively easy to get to for being on the other side of the world.

Before I let you in on my favorite Oahu honeymoon resorts, here’s my biggest tip for planning the best honeymoon…pick the right time of year to go. Hawaii is an extremely family friendly vacation destination so when kids are out of school, expect even the swankiest resorts to have a pool full of kids. While a lot of places have adults only pools, kids are always around everywhere else you go, so if you’re looking for a quieter time to go, pick spring or fall (or at least avoid the summer and winter holidays). I’m not telling you this to make you think Hawaii isn’t the perfect honeymoon destination (it is), but many people mistakenly believe that by staying at a super expensive beach resort they’ll limit the kids (noise) around, but that’s not necessarily the case. When you go has more to do with it than where you stay.

RELATED: Not very familiar with Oahu? Read up on the lay of the (is)land here.

That being said, here are 5 amazing Oahu honeymoon resorts…

The Royal Hawaiian: This iconic Waikiki resort (nicknamed the “pink palace of the Pacific”) has been featured in movies since the 1960s. Its style speaks of a bygone era but it’s still high on modern luxuries. It’s right in the heart of Waikiki so if you want to see and do it all while staying at some of the coolest digs in Waikiki, this is your spot. Pricing starts at $299/night. Click here to check pricing and availability during your stay.

Turtle Bay Resort: If the noise and crowds of Waikiki aren’t your thing, escape to Turtle Bay Resort on the north shore. It’s isolated location insures a quiet and peaceful vacation but the resort offers plenty of amenities. It’s also in the heart of Oahu’s north shore with it’s famous surf breaks, food trucks, and snorkeling spots. It’s also conveniently located for getting to Hanalei, the Polynesian Culture Center, and Kualoa Ranch and it’s only about 45 minutes from Waikiki. Pricing starts at $295/night. Click here to check pricing and availability during your stay.

Four Seasons Oahu: Nothing says luxury like the Four Seasons so if you’re looking to splurge on your honeymoon (or you just expect a high level of quality and service), you won’t be disappointed with the Four Seasons. It’s located in the upscale resort community of Ko’olina on the west side and is situated on a perfectly calm little lagoon next to Disney’s Aulani resort. You’ll get seclusion while still only being 30 minutes or so from Waikiki. Pricing starts at $450/night. Click here to check pricing and availability during your stay.

Best Family Friendly Resorts on Oahu

While Oahu is the most crowded of the Hawaiian Islands (over one million people on that tiny island), it’s still a big draw for families. There are a TON of beach resorts on Oahu, but some are definitely better for kids than others.

RELATED: Not very familiar with Oahu? Read up on the lay of the (is)land here.

I feel like this post needs a disclaimer up front: pretty much anywhere you go in Hawaii is going to be kid friendly. Hawaii is not a stuffy destination. The most posh and expensive hotels on the island (hello, Four Seasons) caters to children quite amazingly and unless you’re at the adults only pool (many resorts have them, you’ll always find kids boogie boarding in the waves, bobbing around in the pool, and having dinner with their families. That being said, this list includes resorts that may appeal to children especially due to their pools or kids clubs, and parents due to their locations and convenience factors.

Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa: If ever there as a resort made for families in Hawaii, it’s Aulani, Of course, Disney and kids go together like pb&j, but Aulani is really something special. Yes, it’s a sprawling mega resort with every kind of activity and amenity you could ask for, but the attention to detail in the architecture, design, and landscape manage to make it feel intimate and charming. I’d say it’s the most “Hawaiian” resort you’ll find in Hawaii. Read all about my last stay at Aulani here. Pricing starts at $400/night. Click here to check pricing and availability during your stay.

Hilton Hawaiian Village: This 22-acre sprawling resort is practically its own city with its own shopping and dining complex right on the edge of Waikiki. The resort has its own lagoon that’s perfect for kids and its location on the edge of Waikiki Beach makes it very convenient to walk into the heart of Waikiki, but being a bit removed makes it seem less hectic. It also has six pools (one just for kids) including some of the best water slides on Waikiki. The HHV also has a great kids club, which includes off property excursions to the Honolulu Zoo, Waikiki Aquarium, Bishop Museum, and Children’s Discovery Museum. Pricing starts at $180/night. Click here to check pricing and availability during your stay.

101 Things to Do on Oahu

You’re going to Oahu??! You’re going to love it! I’ve put together my ultimate bucket list of things to do on Oahu, all 101 of them! Now of course you won’t get to all of these one one trip, but use this list to pick and choose what sounds best to you so you’ll be on your way to planning the perfect Oahu vacation!, So here are 101 things to do on Oahu:

Waikiki & Honolulu

1.Hike Diamond Head: This is probably the most iconic thing to do in Waikiki. It’s a mild hike and only takes about 30 minutes to get to the top but once you do you’ll have a fabulous view of Waikiki and Honolulu. Go early since there’s no shade. It’s $5/car to drive in (if there’s space available), and $1/person to walk in.

2.Chinatown: Spend a few hours exploring Chinatown’s markets, lei shops, and bar and restaurant scene. Don’t miss the Pig and the Lady.

3.Duke Statue: The famous bronze statue of Duke Kahanamoku (Olympic Champion and the “father of surfing”) is a must see on Waikiki.

4.Pearl Harbor: Really if there’s one “not to be missed experience” on Oahu, visiting Pearl Harbor is it. Get tickets in advance to visit the USS Arizona Memorial. Tickets to the Arizona Memorial are free but limited.

5.Iolani Palace: The only royal residency in the United States, touring Iolani Palace is will give you a great history lesson. Guided tours are $21.75/adult and $6/child. Self-guided audio tours are $14.25/adult and $6/child. 4 and under are free.

6.Aloha Swap Meet: This swap meet/flea market held on Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday at Aloha Stadium is the perfect place to do your souvenir shopping. Admission is $1/person.

7.Foster Botanical Garden: Honolulu’s oldest botanical garden is located near Chinatown and is home to some amazing tropical plants. Admission is $5/adult.

8.Waikiki Aquarium: The Waikiki Aquarium is a great place to get an up close look at local marine life, especially if you have kids. Admission is $12/adult and $5/child.

9.Honolulu Zoo: If you’re looking for a way to entertain the kids, the Honolulu Zoo has a pretty good collection of animals. Admission is $14/adult and $6/child.

10.Honolulu Museum of Art: You may not think art when you think Hawaii, but this museum has a surprisingly diverse collection. Admission is $20/adult. 18 and under are free. Admission is free on the first Wednesday and third Sunday of every month.

11.Shangri La: This may be the most unexpected surprise on Oahu. Previously Doris Duke’s Honolulu home, it now houses her extensive collection of Islamic art. The property may only be seen via guided tour from the Honolulu Museum of Art. Tours are offered Wednesday through Saturday. Tours last 2.5 hours (1.5 hours onsite and an hour at the museum) and cost $25 (that includes admission to the Honolulu Museum of Art). Reserve in advance.

12.Punchbowl: The National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific (nicknamed the Punchbowl) which was built in 1948 to serve as a final resting place for members of the US Armed Forces who lost their lives in WWII lays in the dormant volcano Pouwaina, which means “hill of sacrifice.”

13.Ala Moana Shopping Center: This is the most decadent shopping destination on Oahu and an attraction in itself. Even if you’re not in the market for designer/luxury brands, it’s a sight to see. And surprisingly, the food court is a world class international destination.

14.Hawaii Food Tours: This epic 5 hour “Hole-in-the-Wall” tour takes food lovers all over Honolulu for “local-style comfort foods of Hawaii.” Tours are $129/person and they pick up in Waikiki.

15.Bishop Museum: The Bishop Museum is one of Oahu’s best kept secrets. The Hawaiian and Polynesian Halls are first class Smithsonian quality exhibits and a visit here is a “don’t miss” for museum lovers or anyone who wants to learn about Hawaiian history and culture. Admission is $22.95 and the museum is open everyday.

RELATED: Not very familiar with Oahu? Read up on the lay of the (is)land and where to stay plus my favorite beach resorts, budget hotels, Airbnbs, honeymoon resorts, family friendly resorts, luxury resorts, and boutique hotels.

16.Farmer’s Markets: For a taste of local life, visit the Honolulu Farmers Market on Wednesday evenings from 4-7 (held on the lawn of the Blaisdell Concert Hall) or KCC Farmers Market on Saturday mornings from 7:30AM – 11:00AM and Tuesday evenings from 4:00 – 7:00PM (held across from the entrance to Diamond Head.

17.Surf Lessons on Waikiki Beach: Taking surf lessons on Waikiki is such a classic thing to do (did anybody else watch Gidget Goes Hawaiian growing up?), and it’s actually a great place to learn. Book a lesson with Waikiki Beach Services.

18.Outrigger Canoe Ride: Besides surfing, this is the most culturally significant water sport in Hawaii. Dozens of companies will offer one or two wave rides right off Waikiki Beach.

19.Architectural Walking Tour: Take a break from the beach and learn about historic downtown Honolulu with Architectural Walking Tours. The 2.5-hour tour is held on Saturday mornings and costs $15/person. Make reservations here.

20.Lyon Arboretum: Part of the University of Hawaii Manoa Campus, the Lyon Arboretum is situated in a lush rainforest setting in Manoa Valley. It’s worth a trip if you’re a nature lover. The arboretum is closed on Sundays and there is a suggested $5/person donation.

Hawaii Like a Local: Oahu with Kait Hanson

Hawaii Like a Local is an interview series to help visitors to Hawaii start exploring less like a tourist and more like a local. This week’s guest is Kait Hanson, blogger at Communikait.com.

What island do you call home?

Sunny (and slightly overcrowded ;)) Oahu!

What’s your “Hawaii life” like?

My husband and I moved to Oahu over 5 years ago courtesy of the military, but when we left active duty – we weren’t quite ready to leave the island life behind. We’ve called Oahu home ever since. I’m a freelance writer who works from home and I love traveling, eating and playing with my dogs at the beach. I’ve never met a cocktail I wasn’t interested in trying and I will ALWAYS make time in my schedule for meeting up with a friend.

What’s your favorite thing to do on your island?

We love exploring, so anything that involves checking out a new spot. Of course, we love the beach, too, and any opportunity to just be outside – running, walking our dogs, climbing a mountain.

RELATED: Not very familiar with Oahu? Read up on the lay of the (is)land and where to stay plus my favorite beach resorts, budget hotels, and Airbnbs.

What are your favorite local “gems” on the island?

I would be lying if I didn’t say that eating at Opal Thai wasn’t my favorite thing on this island. Since we started eating there 5 years ago, Opal and his family have become our family and we eat there at least once a week. It’s the best Thai food I’ve ever put in my mouth (and yes, I’ve been to Thailand!). I also love views from Kokohead Crater. It’s not exactly hidden or secret, since a lot of people hike it, but most are intimidated by the 1,000+ railroad ties to get up it. I always encourage our visitors by telling them the views are worth it. They never disagree!

What are some places you always take friends and family when they visit?

Well, Opal Thai, LOL! But also Doris Duke’s Shangri-la, Duke’s for Hula Pie, happy hour at Monkeypod Kitchen out in Ko’Olina, Pearl Harbor, Diamondhead, Kokohead Crater, Waikiki Beach, Waimea Bay and so many often say “can we go to where they filmed Forgetting Sarah Marshall?” So we usually make a trip up to Turtle Bay Resort.

Where would you go for a staycation on the island?

Without a doubt The Royal Hawaiian. It’s the iconic pink hotel on the Waikiki Beach skyline and it’s not to be missed if you visit – even if it’s just to walk through and gaze at her glory. Most people don’t know the history behind the pink walls, but The Royal Hawaiian was actually used as a military res-camp in World War II. The Navy rented it out! There’s a full museum in the basement, which is a must if you’re a little bit of a history nerd like myself. More on our staycation at The Royal Hawaiian here.

10 Oahu Budget Hotels (Waikiki & Beyond)

Yes, I know…everybody thinks Hawaii is super expensive and it sure can be! But there are ways to do it a lot cheaper. One of my favorite ways to save money on a trip to Hawaii is by staying in a budget hotel. If you’re not very familiar with Oahu, read up on the lay of the is(land) here first.

Oahu Budget Hotels

Waikiki

Aqua Palms Waikiki: Located super close to the beach and the Ala Moana shopping center, this light and airy Waikiki hotel is budget friendly and conveniently situated to be able to explore Waikiki and Honolulu. Pricing starts at $99/night. Click here to check pricing and availability during your dates.

Aqua Bamboo Waikiki: Just a quick walk from Waikiki beach, this stylish, tropical hotel has an outdoor saltwater pool, café, sundeck, and use of beach chairs and umbrellas. Pricing starts at $117/night. Click here to check pricing and availability during your dates.

Equus Hotel: This charming equestrian themed boutique hotel has a great location in Waikiki. Bonus: during polo season, guests get free tickets to a match at the north shore’s Hawaii Polo Club. Pricing starts at $109/night. Click here to check pricing and availability during your dates.

Hotel Renew: This Waikiki budget hotel has loads of luxury (even an aromatherapy concierge that lets you customize the scent in your room!) and is perfect for travelers who want a little pampering without breaking the bank. Pricing starts at $169/night. Click here to check pricing and availability during your dates.

Coconut Waikiki Hotel: This bright and airy hotel located on the Ala Wai Canal offers a free continental breakfast every morning and has an outdoor heated pool. Pricing starts at $149/night. Click here to check pricing and availability during your dates.

Waikiki Beach Resorts (plus other Oahu resorts)

Oahu (Waikiki in particular) is home to the bulk of hotel rooms in Hawaii, so it can be kind of overwhelming trying to find just the right place to stay. But there’s good news…there are some really great beach resorts on Oahu!

Here are my favorite Oahu beach resorts broken down by location. Click through the links to check pricing and availability for your travel dates.

Not super familiar with Oahu? Read this post to help you get the lay of the land and decide which area of Oahu is right for you.

Waikiki

Royal Hawaiian Hotel: The Royal Hawaiian Hotel (also know as the “Pink Palace of the Pacific”) is probably my favorite place to stay on Waikiki, because it’s so chic and iconic. Most movies filmed in Hawaii in the 1960s (and even an episode of Mad Men) were filmed at the Royal Hawaiian! Click here to check rates and availability during your stay.

Moana Surfrider: The oldest hotel on Waikiki, the Moana Surfrider has been around since 1901 and sits directly on Waikiki beach. No trip to Waikiki is complete until you’ve sipped a mai tai on the lanai here. Click here to check rates and availability during your stay.

Hilton Hawaiian Village: The Hilton Hawaiian Village feels like a city in itself with multiple towers, its own lagoon, an entire pool complex, and plenty of shops and restaurants. Since it’s located at the end of Waikiki (opposite Diamond Head), it often feels less crowded than other nearby options. Click here to check rates and availability during your stay.

Sheraton Waikiki: This relaxed beach resort right on Waikiki Beach has great amenities including three restaurants, an infinity pool (plus another pool with waterslide), and spa. It’s also right in the middle of Waikiki’s famous shopping district. Click here to check rates and availability during your stay.

RELATED: 15 Things to Do on Oahu

Things to Do in Kailua

Where to Eat on Oahu

25 Things to Know Before You Go to Oahu

Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort: Located right in the middle of Waikiki, the Outrigger Waikiki is one of the few beach resorts on Waikiki that doesn’t charge a daily resort fee. It’s home to the famous Duke’s Waikiki Restaurant and Beach Bar as well as a couple of other restaurants. Click here to check rates and availability during your stay.

Hyatt Regency Waikiki Resort & Spa: Located on the beach, the two towers of this resort have upscale rooms (suites are available) and access to a fitness center, spa, outdoor pool with bar, hot tub, and two restaurants. Click here to check rates and availability during your stay.

Where to Eat on Oahu

Oahu is a foodie’s paradise, so if you’re like me and you plan your trips around eating (oh wait, that’s just me?), you’re going to be busy on Oahu! Oahu is home to a lot of “Hawaii famous” places as well as both iconic and trendy restaurants. So I’ve done a LOT of research, tried a lot of places, and asked plenty of others their favorites, and here are my picks for the best restaurants on Oahu:

For a classic dinner on Waikiki…

Duke’s: This Waikiki institution is THE place for a nice sunset dinner.

For a Waikiki beachfront watering hole…

Mai Tai Bar: The original mai tai was created by the bar tender here more than 50 years ago. If you time your dinner and drinks right, you’ll have a great view of the luau at the Royal Hawaiian.

For the best breakfast in Waikiki…

Eggs ‘n Things: Be prepared to wait in line, but it’s worth it for their amazing pancakes.

For the best local food in town…

Helena’s Hawaiian Food: This is a true local joint but they’re so welcoming to tourists who find their way out there (very close to the Bishop Museum). The Rainbow Drive-In is also a don’t miss.

For the best shrimp truck…

Giovanni’s: Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck on the north shore is easily the most popular food truck in the area (and there are a lot of them!). Try the shrimp scampi.

For the best pie…

Ted’s Bakery: This efficient bakery on the north shore has a whole bunch of goodies, but they’re most famous for their chocolate haupia (coconut) pie.

For the best breakfast in Kailua…

Moke’s Bread and Breakfast: The best lilikoi pancakes period. Boots and Kimo’s is also a favorite of mine. They’re famous for their macadamia nut sauce on their pancakes. Get there early or you’ll have a wait!

For the best shaved ice…

Island Snow: In Kailua, Island Snow is a favorite of the Obamas. Also, try Matsumoto’s in Haleiwa and Waiola Shave Ice in Honolulu.

For the best restaurant in Chinatown…

The Pig and the Lady: This trendy Vietnamese fusion restaurant is a super popular spot. Drop by for lunch, but you’ll want reservations for dinner.

Things to Do in Kailua + Windward Oahu

One of the most gorgeous parts of Oahu is the windward coast (east side). It’s famous for its jagged green mountains (the Ko’olau range) and laidback towns with gorgeous beaches. The main destination on the windward side is Kailua town (and neighboring Lanikai), but I’ll also be including stops south of Kailua (down to Koko Head Marina) and north of Kailua (to the north shore) in case you want to make a day out of it!

Kailua/Lanikai

Often referred to as “the world’s biggest little beach town,” Kailua is popular with locals and tourists who are searching for some respite from Honolulu, but still like some of the conveniences of “town” (hello Costco and Target!).

Getting there: If you’re heading to Kailua from Honolulu, be sure to take the H3. It’s got to be one of the most beautiful highways in the US and you’ll have AMAZING views of the Ko’olau Mountains.

Lanikai Beach: THIS is why you come to Hawaii. Regularly found on lists of world’s greatest beaches, Lanikai is picture perfect. It’s not the most convenient beach, but it’s worth it. Lanikai is a small neighborhood right next to Kailua Beach Park and there’s not much parking. There’s no parking allowed on the side of the street with the bike path, and you obviously can’t park in people’s yards or driveways, so you may have to hunt for a spot. You also won’t find any amenities as this beach, so pack in everything you’ll need.

Kailua Beach: While next-door Lanikai beach is the island’s crown jewel, Kailua beach isn’t exactly the ugly stepchild. It’s gorgeous! And it has great amenities. You’ll find restrooms, showers, picnic areas, rentals, and the Kalapawai Deli. There’s also plenty of shade.

Lanikai Pillbox Hike: There are so many hikes on Oahu, but this is my favorite! It’s fairly short, but it’s got a good pay off. You’ll find the trailhead on Kaelepulu Dr in Lanikai. All of the parking is on the road. This hike only took me about an hour up and back, but you really have to scramble in some places. The first part is by far the steepest.

Oahu

Waikiki & Honolulu

Oahu Budget Hotels

Waikiki

Waikiki

For a classic dinner on Waikiki…

For a Waikiki beachfront watering hole…

For the best breakfast in Waikiki…

For the best local food in town…

For the best shrimp truck…

For the best pie…

For the best breakfast in Kailua…

For the best shaved ice…

For the best restaurant in Chinatown…

Kailua/Lanikai

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