Oahu

In August of 2023, my family and I decided to dive into the serenity of Oahu. And let me tell you, it was an absolute rollercoaster of emotions. While we soaked up the sheer joy of our trip, we also couldn't help but feel a gut-wrenching sadness as we witnessed Maui, our island's neighbor, being devoured by the worst fire of the past century. That shook us and further made us realize how crucial tourism is for all these Hawaiian islands to keep thriving.

Personally, when I think of paradise, Hawai'i comes alive in my head. I’ve been five times to this wonderful archipelago, but I just can’t get enough: the nature is wild, the sea is powerful yet calm and the people... the Hawai'ians are just the most welcoming, caring and wonderful people you will ever meet.

If it’s your first time in Hawai'i and you only have a few days to spare, I would go and explore Oahu to make sure you’ll want to return and explore more and more and more of these amazing islands.

If you’re looking for the comfort of having everything at your fingertips, from department stores to world-class restaurants, look no further than Waikiki and stay at the Westin Moana Surfrider: it’s an icon in Waikiki, just steps away from Duke’s Statue, and has possibly the best restaurant in the area. For a more relaxed and cool vibe in Waikiki, Kaimana is a great choice.

My pick is, and will always be, the Four Seasons Ko’Olina: the impeccable service, the calm waters of the lagoon and the amazing spa make it the perfect stay in Oahu. If you’re on a romantic mission and want to splurge, however, head to the North Shore and stay at Turtle Bay!

Hawai’i is a vacation destination that I’ll never say no to, no matter how many times I’ve been. Having been to Waikiki and O’ahu dozens of times, I know it can be difficult to decide where to stay with so many options, but I’ve narrowed down the best hotels near Waikiki Beach for you to have the best Waikiki experience.

Oahu, Hawaii's third-largest island, truly has something for everyone. From the hustle and bustle of Waikiki to the local lifestyle of the North Shore, there's a hotel and restaurant for every kind of traveler. You'll find great cocktail bars and fusion restaurants in Honolulu, beloved food trucks on the North Shore where shoes aren't required and farm-to-table restaurants in Waimea Bay. Here is my guide to the best places to eat in Oahu.

Oahu, Hawai'i holds a special place in my heart. Having spent a year living in Waikiki, I developed a deep appreciation and connection for this captivating destination. My prolonged stay provided me with invaluable insights into the island, from popular tourist hotspots to picturesque beaches. I'm thrilled to share my firsthand experiences with others who are eager to explore this enchanting island.

Ready to dive into the vibrant paradise of Oahu, Hawai'i? This place isn't just any old island – it's known as "The Gathering Place," where locals and travelers alike come together for unforgettable experiences. From chilling out at Waikiki Beach to getting lost in lush forests, and from soaking up history at Iolani Palace to paying respects at Pearl Harbor, Oahu's got it all. But wait, there's more! Get your snorkel on at Hanauma Bay, catch some waves at world-famous surf spots and trek through jaw-dropping trails with ocean views. And don't forget about the island's volcanic wonders – they're definitely worth exploring. Below is a killer guide to help plan your trip for you. Spend the first half checking out the South and East Shores, including Honolulu, then hit up the North and West Shores for the second half. Trust me, splitting your time this way will give you the best of both worlds. And with Oahu being so compact, getting around is a breeze – everything's just a short drive away.

Modern-day Hawaii in 2022 is a heavenly destination for natural exploration, hiking and beaches. On the other hand, it is also consistently turning into a more metropolitan city, too – advancing more and more in the culinary and hospitality scene. Here you can have a cultural, adventurous and shopping experience all-in-one, making it a perfect destination for all kinds of travelers looking to disconnect in the tropical capital of Hawaii.

Honolulu, Hawai'i, is an incredibly safe and special option to spend some quiet, pre-baby time with your partner without having to whip out your passport. I highly recommend it as a babymoon location because it is not too far from the continental U.S., has great infrastructure (if you are concerned about health care options), variety of foods to meet any craving, and perfect weather year-round. Oahu is the perfect place because you can dial up your vacation if you feel like an adventure, or chill out if you just want to bum on the beach.