Where to Stay on Oahu: Beyond Waikiki

Introduction

While Waikiki is a popular destination for tourists, it can be expensive, crowded, and sometimes overwhelming. For a more authentic and less touristy experience, explore the other areas of Oahu. This article examines several neighborhoods and areas, providing details on housing costs, accessibility, and attractions, to help you make an informed decision where to stay.

Real Estate Considerations

The choice of where to stay on Oahu can be significantly influenced by your lifestyle and income. For surfers and those into the hippy culture, areas with a coastal view and beachfront properties are highly desirable. For professionals and those in law, medicine, or law (MD, IR, Esq), proximity to work or quality real estate comes into play. Here, we compare a few options:

Kahala Beachfront

Located in the upper east side, Kahala is renowned for its upscale amenities and proximity to Waikiki. Queen's Surf, a renowned surfing spot, is just a short distance away. If you're looking for a beachfront lot, expect to pay around $5 million for a vacant lot. However, finding a house in this area is more feasible, with prices in the range of $700,000. It's important to note that Oahu’s real estate market is different from those of LA or NYC, with fewer choices for prime locations outside of Honolulu.

Hawaii Kai

Nestled on the east coast, Hawaii Kai is a newer residential area that boasts a beachfront community. While the main road from Honolulu’s business district can get quite congested with traffic, a nice house here can be found for around $700,000. This area may be more affordable compared to other parts of Oahu, but it can be challenging to commute to Honolulu because of the heavy traffic.

Best Areas for Visitors

Pagoda Hotel

For short-term stay visitors, consider the Pagoda Hotel. This affordable option offers a small pool, a floating restaurant with a buffet, and is conveniently located near Walmart Don Quixote and the Ala Moana Shopping Center. Just a block away, you'll find Like Like Drive-In, a favorite among locals for its nostalgic food experience. The hotel is close to Waikiki, making it accessible for those looking for a night out in the iconic area.

The Big Island Day Trip

An easy alternative to staying on Oahu is to fly to the Big Island for a day and explore. After your day out, return to Oahu. The suggested itinerary includes a trip to Pearl Harbor, Pali Lookup, and Makapuu Lookup. For a more nuanced experience, visit Punchbowl National Memorial of the Pacific and the Honolulu Lookout. Finish your day in downtown Waikiki with dinner or explore a vibrant and diverse range of restaurants.

Alternatives to Waikiki

For a quiet and peaceful stay, consider staying away from Waikiki. Here are a few areas that offer a pleasant living experience:

Kakaako and Kahala

Near Kakaako and Kahala, you'll find a blend of modern luxury and convenience. These areas offer proximity to Waikiki, making it easy to explore the iconic beach destination._dw_
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West Side: Koolina and Disney Aulani Resort

The west side of Oahu is home to the Koolina resort and Disney Aulani Resort. These areas also have some timeshare condo properties, making them attractive for shorter stays. They are more affordable compared to traditional Oahu hotels.

North Shore: Turtle Bay Resort

While the North Shore is known for its surfing, the Turtle Bay Resort offers a more laid-back experience. It's a popular spot for those seeking a quieter stay closer to the surfing spots while retaining ease of access to Honolulu.

Windward Side: Lanikai, Kailua, Kaneohe

The Windward side, over the mountains, is mostly dominated by Airbnb or house rentals. Lanikai, Kailua, and Kaneohe offer a serene and secluded experience. Paradise Bay Resort in Kaneohe is a small boutique property, perfectly suited for those seeking a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of Waikiki.

Whether you're looking for a luxury get-away or a more budget-friendly and secluded escape, there are several options available on Oahu beyond Waikiki. Regardless of your choice, a bit of research and consideration of your lifestyle preferences can help you find the perfect place to stay.