11 Best Beach Hotels in Oahu, Hawaii

Whenever we closed our eyes and pictured ourselves on a relaxing vacation, we’d envision ourselves on a white sand beach, a Mai Tai in hand, with the gently rolling waves in the distance. Now imagine that dream come to life – no, really – Oahu in Hawaii is just that. Known as the “The Gathering Place,” Oahu is practically the gateway to the islands of Hawaii, beckoning tourists like us for more than a century. Whether it’s the gorgeous natural wonders, the Polynesian culture, or the beaches, the island is the perfect seaside getaway. What also helped us zero in on a beach vacay here were the many options for the best beach hotels in Oahu, Hawaii. What’s more, these beach resorts lay across a variety of locations around the island, depending on what vibe we wanted for our holiday.

But that’s not all. They also varied across budgets and crowds, so we could actually pick and choose the kind of Hawaiian beach vacation we wanted. Nevertheless, they all had one common thread: their location on one of Oahu’s fantastic white-sand beaches. In fact, water babies will love the fact that many of them even offer tons of water sports, including snorkeling, scuba diving, and even wreck exploring, which we loved indulging in. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bikinis and swim shorts and head to one of Oahu’s best beachside stays, which we’ve rounded up for you. 

Queen Kapiʻolani Hotel Waikiki Beach

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Best value for money. We begin with what is one of the most value-for-money hotels on Oahu, Queen Kapiʻolani Hotel Waikiki Beach. Tucked between Waikiki and Diamond Head, this hotel balanced vintage design and modern amenities perfectly. The best bit was that it was less than a five-minute walk from the Waikiki Walkway and the Waikiki Wall. So, we had access to not just Kuhio Beach on the right but also the relatively empty Queen’s Beach on the left. How amazing is that! On the inside, the hotel was not noisy and relaxing and had all the amenities we needed for a relaxing Hawaiian vacation. The outdoor pool was perfect for taking a refreshing dip, after which we’d lie on the loungers and enjoy light bites and cocktails. Besides a fitness center, two restaurants on the property wrap up the offerings here.

Considering the name, we weren’t surprised to find a majestic portrait of Queen Kapiolani wearing a peacock dress in the lobby. The local artwork which fills the hotel also extends to the rooms and suites. Speaking of which, we loved the digs at this hotel, too, many of which came with private balconies. Even our ocean-facing room had a balcony with fantastic views of Waikiki and Diamond Head. Other usual mod-cons like plush beds, coffeemakers, and luxe bathrooms completed the place.

Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa

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Best for families with kids. The Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa was perfect for our family, kids in tow, and was the ultimate family-friendly beachfront luxury stay on Oahu. Sitting right across from Waikiki Beach, the hotel had many family-friendly options for digs. The spacious, newly-renovated oceanfront Junior Suite where we stayed was one of the largest we’d seen in all of Waikiki. Tucked in the Kealohilani Tower, it had simple sea-inspired decor and lots of space for the kids to run around. Plus, it had a gorgeous lanai from where we could spy fantastic views of Diamond Head.

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But what set the hotel apart for us was the fabulous amenities. Firstly, there was not one but two heated outdoor saltwater pools. While the kids splashed about in the Kealohilani Pool, we enjoyed some quiet time at the adults-only Paoakalani Pool and a soak in the hot tub next to it. We weren’t worried about the kids, thanks to the babysitting services at this Marriott outpost. So, we were also able to indulge in massages at the Aveda-concept Royal Kaila day spa. Finally, the highlight for the kids was the many restaurants, including in-room dining, which meant that the kids got to eat in the room while watching TV! That’s why it’s one of Oahu’s best family hotels.

Four Seasons Resort Oahu At Ko Olina

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Laidback luxury is redefined at the Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina, which sits on the emerald-blue Ko Olina lagoons on the western shores of Oahu. In fact, the quiet and elegant property is practically a full-blown resort town by itself and offers a whole heap of unexpected luxurious delights.

For instance, there was a “tanning butler” who’d remind us to slather on the SPF while we were at the pool. What’s more, it had a bunch of other luxury resort trappings, like the golf course, tennis courts, and a wonderful spa. But the standout was the Wayfinders program, where we indulged in local activities like dyeing sarongs, playing ukeules, and stargazing. Of course, with the beach out front and the Daniel Koval-headed Deep Freediving Center on the property, we couldn’t resist a spot of diving off the shoreline. As many as five restaurants and bars and a complimentary ride in a USD 200,000 Mercedes-Maybach sedan – the house car – wrap up the offerings here. 

“From the tanning butler to the beachfront activities, there was nothing we didn’t love about this Four Seasons beach hotel.”

WOW Travel

When it comes to accommodations, every room and suite felt like an upscale haven – this is the Four Seasons, after all. However, nothing beats the oceanfront suites, which offer sweeping views of the ocean from the balconies.

Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort And Spa

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It might be located across the street from the beach, but the location of the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort And Spa can’t get any better. There was a lot we loved about this Hyatt outpost, starting with the pool area. In fact, the pool area is the best amongst all the Hyatts in the Waikiki area. However, there were many chairs and umbrellas where we could lounge and order food and drinks and even rent cabins. A visit to the pool was followed by a visit to the award-winning Na Ho’ola Spa, where we indulged in Haiwaiian-inspired rejuvenating treatments.

Our days began with breakfast spreads at the restaurant, and we’d also visit the Swim bar to sip on creative cocktails. There’s even an “Aloha Waikiki” hula show on Wednesday nights. Finally, the new cultural center, Ho’okela, offered us a unique experience of Hawaii. So, we could make leis, play the ukulele, and even dance the hula.

All rooms and suites at this Hyatt outpost came with satellite TVs, iPod docking stations, and bath products from Na Ho’ola Spa. Our upgraded ocean-view suite was fabulous, especially the view of the beach and the sea from the patio.

Turtle Bay Resort

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Are you looking for wanton, nonchalant beachfront luxury in Oahu? We’d highly recommend the Turtle Bay Resort, which was perfect for us water babies. In fact, this is the only resort on Oahu’s famous North Shore, so we thoroughly enjoyed being far from Honolulu’s tourist crowds. In fact, North Shore and its activities happen to be some of the top things to do in Oahu, HI. We had a boatload of adventurous activities waiting at the resort for intrepid travelers like us, including stand-up paddleboarding, snorkeling, surfing, surfboard yoga classes, and scuba diving. When we were spent from all the horsing around, the pristine sands of the beach beckoned, where we could swim with the turtles in the crystal clear waters.

When we weren’t at the private beach, we’d be spending all our time at the adults-only infinity pool, which was just one of four pools here – yes! After a swim and a lounge on the cabana, the decadent Nalu Spa was our next stop, where we indulged in a romantic seaside spa treatment together. While even the basic rooms here come with sea views, we went about 20 steps ahead and booked the private oasis that is their ocean bungalow for an ultimate indulgent getaway. Located steps from the sand, the modern bungalow had a private lanai (balcony), and we even had a personal Bungalow Host! Plus, we had access to all the perks and privileges of the Ocean Club Lounge and – get this – access to a private pool especially reserved for bungalow guests. Whoever said that adventure couldn’t be luxurious?

Lotus Honolulu At Diamond Head

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Best boutique hotel. Sitting right next to the dormant volcano that is Diamond Head is the boutique gem that is Lotus Honolulu At Diamond Head. We were removed from the hubbub of Waikiki, which we loved, and were still close enough to all the action. For a small daily “boutique” fee, we were treated to a huge continental breakfast spread. Not only that but we were also given free beach cruiser bikes to use, which helped a lot since Kaimana Beach and its golden sands were right out front. Plus, the fee also gave us access to onsite yoga classes, which were the perfect way to start our day. If all that wasn’t enough, the fee also gave us culture vultures access for two people to the Honolulu Museum of Art. What more could we want?

What’s more, the hotel even served tea and coffee in the morning every day, along with breakfast. At the end of a long day, they even had a wine reception in the evening, where we’d mingle with our fellow guests. When we wanted to unwind, we’d head down to the wellness area, which offered all kinds of massages and treatments. Even the rooms and suites weren’t far behind and featured not just 42-inch LCD TVs but also iPod docking stations. In fact, they even came with premium Illy espresso machines and fridges. The best bit? All rooms had a patio or balcony of some sort.

Kaimana Beach Hotel

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One of Waikiki’s oldest hotels, Kaimana Beach Hotel, also occupies a fabulous beachfront location in the heart of Diamond Head. Formerly the Victorian beachfront home of the McIrney family and then the New Otani Kaimana Beach Hotel, this gorgeous beach hotel now has a new motto – happy is the new cool. It begins right from the sun-kissed, bright lobby with warm turquoise, soft oranges, canary yellows, and pastel pinks popping throughout the space. This fades into the bar and restaurant, which further spills out onto the beach. But that’s not all. Kaimana has partnered with local surf legend and 2018 longboard world champion Kai Sallas. In fact, this Pro Surf School sits within the hotel, so those who want to get surfing needn’t go anywhere – everything is available right at the hotel. 

In fact, the concierge back at the hotel even set us up with bikes for a spin around the neighborhood and a sunset sail around Waikiki. We could communicate easily with the concierges via the Ivy app, which included everything from activity recommendations to beach chairs and reservations. Moreover, the onsite Hau Tree restaurant served all meals, and we could enjoy them alfresco under the shaded tree, right on the sands. Most rooms and suites had ocean or Diamond Head views from the floor-to-ceiling windows. But the real ticket is the top-floor suites, which boasted long wraparound balconies.

Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa

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There’s nothing better than a hotel on the beach with a beach spa, isn’t it? We’re talking about the Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa, which dates back to 1901 but is as contemporary and luxurious as it gets. It sits right on Waikiki Becah, so we had access to many water activities like parasailing, diving, surfing, and canoe riding, including private lessons. When we were done with the activity bit, we’d sprawl on the loungers right on the beach. How cool is that?

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By the way, the beach wasn’t the only place where we could have some water fun. The resort’s outdoor seaside pool, ringed by white daybeds, was as idyllic as it got. However, the real star was the Moana Lani Spa, which is Waikiki’s only luxury seaside spa. Not only did it have zero-gravity waiting room chairs, but it also had a whirlpool and a steam room, and a couples’ Apuakehau Suite with a private whirlpool tub and panoramic sea views. Even food is a fantastic affair, with two restaurants, a gorgeous vintage bar, and a poolside cafe serving everything from breakfast and other meals to afternoon tea and cocktails.

With ridiculously comfortable beds and sea views, staying at the Moana Surfrider is as good as beachside staying gets. The most popular ones are the tower rooms facing the Diamond Head crater, where we were, and we were treated to some of the best ocean views.

The Kahala Hotel and Resort

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We also wanted to stay where eight US presidents, Angelina Jolie, Queen Elizabeth II, and even Frank Sinatra, had stayed in the past. Behold the Kahala Hotel and Resort in Honolulu’s affluent Kahala seaside neighborhood for more than 50 years. Even today, it’s the epitome of Oahu luxury, with offerings ranging from afternoon tea to turndown every night with Hawaiian salt chocolates. In fact, we were welcomed with a flower lei and a chilled towel, and the hospitality here was unrivaled.

But what drew us here was the Kahala Hilton Beach right out front, as did the waterfall-fed lagoon sprawling around the property. In fact, there are many resident stingrays, turtles, and dolphins around, if you can call them that, and we could even feed and swim with the dolphins! Plus, there were tons of ways to let our hair down, like daily surf lessons and hula classes. There are four main dining options, two of which offer superb beach and ocean views with indoor-outdoor seating. When we wanted to unwind, the onsite spa beckoned, as did the oval outdoor pool, which led directly to the beach. Did you know there were even paddleboard yoga classes on offer? Yeah. That’s why it’s one of the best beachfront hotels in Honolulu.

Rooms and suites are spa-like oases with tasteful island prints, soft hues, and ridiculously comfy beds. Our upper-floor oceanfront room had views of Diamond Head from our balcony, complete with chaise longues.

Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort

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Now, what can we say about Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort Hotel, Waikiki? Sitting between Fort Derussy Beach Park and Halekulani, it’s one of Oahu’s best luxury beach hotels. It backs a small stretch of secluded beach, which is literally known as the “beach behind Outrigger Reef Beach Resort!” So, it’s accessible only to guests at Outrigger and Halekulani, practically making it a private beach. Plus, when the legendary Kelly Slater is a resident instructor for surfing lessons, you want to stay here!

Besides the amazing coastal location, the beachfront amenities at this resort are better than most of its peers. The top draw is the oceanfront pool, where we’d get chilled towels, snacks, and cocktails after a swim. Afternoons were reserved for blissful downtime at the Infinity Massage & Spa in a two-level ocean-facing penthouse. Even the eateries here are beach-facing, especially Duke’s, which sits right on the sands. Don’t miss visiting Blue Note Hawaii, where we listen to nightly rhythm-and-blues, jazz, and other music by excellent local, national, and international artists. Of course, the rooms and suites here were a dream since all of them had lanais with views of either the beach and the ocean or the Waikiki skyline. Thanks to the soundproofed windows, we were able to sleep in peacefully too.

Halekulani

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Best overall. Regarding beachfront hotels, Oahu, Halekulani is, without a doubt, the best of them all. The venerable hotel, which means “House befitting heaven” in Hawaiian, has come a long way from its humble beginnings as a five-cottage hotel. However, one thing that hasn’t changed is the fact that it has direct access to the small but secluded beach out front. In fact, the beach is so secluded that it doesn’t even have a name; it’s simply called “the beach behind Outrigger Reef Beach Resort,” which neighbors Halekulani!  

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Back at the hotel, the mosaic outdoor pool was perfect for a dip, with pool attendants serving us drinks as we lay on the loungers. The blissful haven also had a sleek beach-facing gym, but the spa, with its numerous Hawaiian massages, wraps, and facial choices, was our favorite. Afternoon tea was followed by evening walks on the beach, after which we’d enjoy French far at the oceanfront, award-winning La Mer restaurant. In fact, the hotel even has another casual oceanfront casual terrace dining option, complete with nightly entertainment.

We had the choice of 450+ understated rooms and suites, a majority of which offered either partial or complete views of the beach and the ocean. Plus, they all came with balconies! Did you know that every room featured seasonal tropical fruits and nightly turndown service featuring Halekulani’s very own chocolates? Yes! Our oceanfront king room had a balcony with superb views of Diamond Head on the other side. It’s no wonder that Halekulani is one of Oahu’s best boutique hotels.

Our Verdict!

• Best beachfront spa: Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa
• Most historic beachfront hotel: The Royal Hawaiian
• Best laidback luxury: Four Seasons Resort Oahu At Ko Olina
• Best kid-friendly luxury: Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa

Where to Stay in Oahu?

Not for nothing is Oahu one of the most spectacular sunset locations in the world. What’s more, it’s one of the most versatile of the Hawaiian islands and offers more varied beachfront stays than any other island. So, where did we stay during our beachfront Oahu sojourn?

There’s no way we mention beach neighborhoods in Oahu without talking of Waikiki first. Tucked in the heart of the capital Honolulu, Waikiki is home to Waikiki Beach and is a Hawaiian tourism mecca. Besides being a gorgeous beachside neighborhood, it also had most of the top things to do in Oahu, HI. Since we also wanted to explore, staying here made a lot of sense. Secondly, there’s Diamond Head just south of Waikiki, which is home to the quieter Kaimana and Kuhio beaches. While its beachfront stays are on the quieter side, it’s perfect for those who want to stay close to the bustle but not right in the middle of it. Of course, the allure of a dormant volcano right next door also hits differently.

There’s another place on the island where we could go to venture away from the crowds, which is the western Leeward Coast. It’s the island’s least commercial area and is home to some of the most gorgeous and most expensive hotels in Hawaii.

Does Oahu or Maui have better beaches?

While Maui also has beautiful beaches, it’s less paced than Oahu. Oahu has a bit of everything – gorgeous white sand beaches, both crowded and noncrowded, attractions to see and do, and a wide variety of hotels.

What part of Oahu is best to stay?

North Shore is an excellent choice for great beaches and mountains, but overall, Waikiki is fantastic in terms of everything – good beaches, great nightlife, places to stay, and things to see and do.

What is the most relaxing beach on Oahu?

That would be Sunset Beach on the north side of the island. It’s perfect for swimming during the summer months with clear and calm waters.