From rip curls and rainbow-hued shave ice to cobalt waters and creamy white sands, Oahu is the heart of Hawaii. Come for world famous Waikiki, the lush Windward Coast and sunset Pacific hulas.

Big wave surfing, glitzy shops and hippy enclaves define Oahu’s swimsuit, surfboard and sunscreen lifestyle. There are million-dollar houses and boho beach shack bars. You can grab lunch from enticing local shrimp trucks in Kahuku or dine at a Michelin-starred sushi bar in Honolulu. Head to the Windward Coast for rugged cliffs and astoundingly green valleys. Explore barrier reef and miniscule islets or cruise past tiny shell shops and roadside stalls selling ice cold coconuts. Hit North Shore to see legendary surfers catch unbroken 50-foot-high waves that arrive in from Alaska. Coast over to South Shore for the rush and thrum of Waikiki, where a strip of designer shops rival L.A.’s Rodeo Drive. Take surf lessons in the calm blue waters and dine and dance long after sunset. From fashionable fusion food to Samoan fire dancing and crystal-clear ocean to extinct volcanic craters, Oahu is a tropical island treat for all the senses.

Looking for oceanfront hotspots, big waves and hippie hideouts? Discover handpicked holidays with Kuoni, your effortless way into Oahu.

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Oahu Hotels

Our recommendations for the best places to stay in Oahu

Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa

Moana Surfrider displays a certain style on these shorelines you may not find at some of its neig...

The Royal Hawaiian, A Luxury Collection Resort

Spectacularly pink and completely eye-catching, The Royal Hawaiian has become something of a luxu...

Queen Kapiolani

Soak up the incredible views from this independently-owned-and-run hotel.

Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club

With its modern Hawaiian décor, Surfjack has the social vibe of an upscale hostel; full of people...

The Laylow Waikiki, Autograph Collection

Travel up the escalators into chic, fresh design that still pays homage to its Hawaiian roots.

Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort

Beachfront setting and located just minutes away from oodles of bars and restaurants on Kalakaua...

Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa

Hyatt’s lofty views, crisp décor and endless facilities make this a popular choice for a Honolulu...

Halekulani Hotel

Find serenity at this age-old, stylish property, It’s been around for over a century for a reason...

Get to know Oahu and those important practicalities when planning your perfect holiday.

TIME DIFFERENCE

GMT -10 hours

CURRENCY

US dollar

FLYING TIME TO DESTINATION

17¼ hours to Honolulu

RELIGION

Christianity is the most followed religion but there is a wide diversity of beliefs throughout the state.

LANGUAGE

English and Hawaiian