Oahu is one of the most popular islands in Hawaii and is often referred to as “The Gathering Place.” It is the third largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago and offers a wide variety of activities for visitors, from its stunning family-friendly beaches and lush rainforests to its vibrant nightlife and delicious cuisine. From hiking, whale watching on North Shore to exploring world-famous Waikiki Beach or taking a dip at Halona Blowhole, there are endless opportunities for outdoor fun. If you are planning a first trip to Hawaii, or just trying to work out where to base yourself on the Hawaiian islands, deciding on where to stay is paramount. Being one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, the island has a great range of superb hotels for every budget, beachfront Airbnbs and Oahu resorts that promise a vacation you’ll never forget. From private beachfront access, fine dining, exciting entertainment and kids’ clubs, to outstanding service and luxury accommodations, resorts on the island offer everything you need for a no-fuss, stress-free trip. Here are some of the most top-rated resorts on Oahu.
The Most Top-Rated Oahu Resorts for a Family or Couples Vacation
We hope you love the Oahu resorts we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay.
Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina
Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina is a five-star resort that offers the perfect getaway for exploring the island. Located on the sunny western coasts of Oahu, close to Honolulu and Waikiki Beach, this luxurious resort looks out over a stunning turquoise lagoon.
The property features 371 accommodations, including suites and family-sized villas with breathtaking views of the ocean, lush gardens, and nearby mountains. With a fully outfitted kids club, and an abundance of cultural and adventure activities (swimming lessons, arts and crafts, luaus, and hula classes), it’s a great option if you’re traveling with children. The world-class concierge is also on hand to arrange anything from excursions to romantic private dining experiences, ensuring that everyone has a memorable stay.
Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina: 92-1001 Olani Street, Kapolei, HI, 96707
Price per night: $1,646
Turtle Bay Resort
Turtle Bay Resort is an idyllic 1,300-acre paradise for couples and families alike. With its modern amenities and touch of Tom Sawyer-like adventure, Turtle Bay Resort is the only luxury resort on the North Shore.
The resort offers breathtaking views from each wing and room due to its three-pronged shape, while its bungalows are spacious and perfect for groups. For outdoor enthusiasts, there are 12 miles of trails through the resort, championship golf courses and outdoor activities such as stand-up paddling, surfing, and an outrigger canoe picnic trip to a sandbar.
The resort has earned rave reviews from visitors. The service at Turtle Bay Resort is outstanding, making this one of the best all-round options for couples of families.
Turtle Bay Resort: 57-091 Kamehameha Hwy, Kahuku, HI, 96731
Price per night: $829
Marriott’s Ko Olina Beach Club
Considering this is a chain brand, Marriott’s Ko Olina Beach Club is packed with personality and laid-back charm. Located on the spectacular western shore of Oahu, this secluded beachfront oasis is nestled within Ko Olina Resort & Marina — a resort community a half-hour drive from Honolulu. It’s surrounded by sprawling grassy grounds with crystal-clear lagoons and golf courses.
From the moment you enter the resort, you’ll be welcomed by waterfalls and fountains, palm trees and ocean views that set the tone for a tranquil getaway. There are over 500 rooms available, ranging from studios to three-bedroom villas, so there’s something to suit everyone. The villas are tastefully decorated with tropical decor, modern furnishings and feature ocean or mountain views. When you’re not lounging by one of the pools or enjoying a meal at one of the restaurants, there are plenty of things to do around the resort. You can snorkel at various small coves, take a stroll along the beach or explore nearby attractions like Pearl Harbor or nip into Waikiki for a spot of shopping.
Marriott’s Ko Olina Beach Club: 92-161 Waipahe Place, Kapolei, HI, 96707
Price per night: $679
The Beach Villas at Ko Olina
Beach Villas at Ko Olina is the perfect destination for families who want a little more space and kitchen facilities. Situated in Kapolei, a planned community in Honolulu County, the luxurious resort accommodations offer two or three-bedroom villas. Each has expansive suites with panoramic ocean views, spacious lanais, and signature state-of-the-art kitchens. All villa rentals grant guests access to the resort’s amenities, including sandy lagoons, a fitness center and lap pools. The resort is serviced, staff are available around the clock to provide information and assistance to guests.
The Beach Villas at Ko Olina: 92-106 Waialii Place, Kapolei, HI, 96707
Price per night: $475
Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa
Aulani, Disney Vacation Club Villas was designed with families in mind and offers something for everyone. From the three-bedroom Grand Villa to the one-bedroom suite, each room has been carefully crafted with comfort and convenience in mind. The resort features a variety of amenities for children including kid-friendly restaurants with Minnie Mouse, Mickey Mouse, and Goofy available for photos. Kids can also enjoy activities such as snorkeling lessons, star gazing, or take part in Aunty’s Beach House (kids’ club) where they can explore Hawaiian culture through music and art. There are also interactive water play areas with a lazy river, fun slides, whirlpool as well as a spa offering massages and other treatments.
Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa: 92-1185 Ali inui Drive, Kapolei, HI, 96707
Price per night: $379
Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort
Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort features seven room towers, 20 restaurants and lounges, and 90 shops on the iconic Waikiki Beach. Each tower has its own unique style and amenities. The Ali’i Tower is the most luxurious of all, featuring the highest quality accommodations and exclusive benefits. The Tapa Collection offers updated rooms with modern designs and furnishings, while the Rainbow Tower is an iconic landmark that has been part of the resort since it opened in 1955.
There are over 3,000 guest rooms and suites spread across the towers, ranging from standard rooms to luxury suites with private lanais overlooking the beach or city skyline. It’s an ideal destination for couples looking for a romantic getaway. The resort offers a variety of activities to make your stay special, including luxurious spa treatments, romantic dinners at their award-winning restaurants, cultural activities like hula lessons and luaus, and firework shows.
Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort: 2005 Kalia Rd, Honolulu, HI, 96815
Price per night: $368
Paradise Bay Resort
If you’d rather stay somewhere a little more peaceful, Paradise Bay Resort, located bay front on the tropical windward coast, is a strong contender. The resort is nestled in a stunning landscape, with views of the Koolau Mountain Range and Kaneohe Bay. Not only is it affordable, but it’s a leisurely drive away from Honolulu, Waikiki Beach, Pearl Harbor, the North Shore and many attractions on the island.
The resort has been designed to reflect its natural surroundings, with an open-air lobby that looks out onto the bay. The architecture is modern yet timeless, with contemporary apartment-style units ranging from cozy studios to spacious two-bedroom suites with breathtaking views. There’s also one stand-alone cottage in a more remote area for those who want further privacy. All accommodations have either a full kitchen or kitchenette and suites have a private lanai. There are various organized activities, such as dinners with live entertainment, guided snorkeling tours of Kaneohe Bay, and chartered boat trip to the sandbar.
Paradise Bay Resort: 47-039 Lihikai Drive, Kaneohe, HI, 96744
Price per night: $334
Where are the resort areas in Oahu?
Oahu is home to many resort areas, the largest of which is Waikiki. In addition, there are much smaller resort zoned areas in Ko’Olina, Kahala, east Honolulu, North Shore, Leeward Coast, Windward Coast and Diamond Head. These resorts range from luxury hotels to vacation rentals and offer a variety of amenities for visitors.
Does Oahu have all inclusive resorts?
Oahu is home to some of the best all-inclusive resorts in the world. From Turtle Bay Resort to The Ritz-Carlton Residences, you’ll find a variety of luxurious resorts that offer everything from exquisite dining and spa treatments to thrilling activities and breathtaking views.
Is there a way to avoid resort fees in Oahu?
Yes, there are several ways to avoid resort fees in Oahu. One of the easiest ways is to book a room using hotel points, as many hotel loyalty programs waive resort fees on award stays. You can also earn elite status with a hotel brand or use flexible travel credit to cover the cost of a resort fee. You can also check different rate codes and see if you can find one without a resort fee, or some hotels may waive the fee for certain guests. 