It is a perfect region for families, couples, older travelers and even has a few hostels for backpackers.
PRO’S OF STAYING IN WAIKIKIHundreds of different accommodation options ranging from 5-star to hostels.
A huge array of dining options
Protected swimming areas with no big waves for kids and novice swimmers
Surf lessons and perfect small surf waves
Close to the popular Diamond Head Hike
All tours start and finish in Waikiki
Weather is always the best on the island in Waikiki
Shopping heaven
Outdoor gyms and running trails
CONS OF STAYING IN WAIKIKI
Can get overwhelming with all the tourists
The beach can be busy during the high season
It can feel like a bit of a city beach compared to quieter island spots
It is a perfect region for families, couples.
PRO’S OF STAYING IN DIAMOND HEAD
A little bit out of the craziness of Waikiki
Several huge parks and play areas
Outdoor gym right near the beach
Hundreds of different accommodation options ranging from 5-star to hostels.
A huge array of dining options
Protected swimming areas with no big waves for kids and novice swimmers
Surf lessons and perfect small surf waves
VERY close to the popular Diamond Head Hike
All tours start and finish in Waikiki, which is just a ten-minute walk
Weather is always the best on the island in Waikiki
Shopping heaven
CONS OF STAYING IN DIAMOND HEAD
You may have to walk 10-15 minutes to the center of Waikiki if there are specific things you want to visit or shop
The beach can be busy during the high season
It can feel like a bit of a city beach compared to quieter island spots
A perfect region for families, couples and backpackers
In the winter it is more suited to surfers, surf enthusiasts, and backpackers.PRO’S OF STAYING ON THE NORTH SHORE
Best surf in the world
Cool laidback vibes and much quieter than Waikiki
Great snorkeling and beaches during the summer
Food trucks and garlic shrimp are part of the experience
A few nice hikes in the area like the short Peace Hike
CONS OF STAYING ON THE NORTH SHORE
1-hour drive to Waikiki
In the winter the beaches aren’t good for swimming a lot of the time as the waves are too big
Mostly only families
There are a couple of big family style resorts out this way and not too much else.PRO’S OF STAYING ON THE WEST SIDE OF OAHU
Not busy like Waikiki
Great weather
Family style resorts
Near good snorkeling, surfing, and hikingCONS OF STAYING ON WEST SIDE OF OAHU
30/40-minute drive to Waikiki
Not much atmosphere outside of the resort areas compared to Waikiki and North Shore
A mix of travelers and families: Ala Moana is the chill zone. You are still close enough to everything but you are far removed from the crowds. You can almost fit in with the locals and expats living on Oahu. Ala Moana beach park has tennis courts, a walking track, an outdoor gym and lots of places to eat and chill on the beach.
PRO’S OF STAYING IN ALA MOANA
Not busy like Waikiki
Great weather
Ala Moana Beach isn’t crowded
The biggest outdoor shopping mall in AmericaCONS OF STAYING IN ALA MOANA
10-15 minute walk from Waikiki Center
Not much atmosphere compared to Waikiki and North Shore