Where to Stay on Oahu Other than Waikiki

Whether you prefer to stay away from the hustle and bustle of Waikiki, or you simply want to experience different parts of the island, here are a few hotel and resort options around Oahu that provide a variety of accommodations, activities, and amenities to suit your needs and desires.

The Turtle Bay Resort is just minutes away from some of the most popular attractions found on the North Shore, such as Polynesian Cultural Center, Kualoa Ranch, and Waimea Valley.

A variety of accommodations are available to choose from on the property, including guest suites and beach cottages, all of which offer a view of the Pacific Ocean.

Swimming pools, golf courses, and tennis courts are just a few of the amenities Turtle Bay offers, and guests can also opt to participate in activities that will allow them to experience even more of Hawaii's beauty, such as helicopter rides, horseback rides, and surfing.

Distance from Honolulu International Airport: Approximately 37 miles; 55 minutes

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Turtle Bay Resort: 57-091 Kamehameha Highway, Kahuku, Hawaii 96731; 800-203-3650

Ideal for those who wish to vacation away from the busyness of Waikiki, but still wish to remain in proximity to all that Waikiki has to offer, the luxurious accommodations of The Kahala Hotel & Resort attract families, dignitaries, and celebrities alike.

Located in eastern Oahu, The Kahala rests on a white sandy beach, making it a popular wedding spot for both locals and visitors.

Home to premiere dining spots Hoku and Plumeria Beach House, The Kahala also houses a spa, energy fitness center, and their very own lagoon home to dolphins and other sea life.

Freebies for guests are aplenty, such as refreshments in the lobby, bottled water in guest rooms, Hawaiiana classes, and a daily walking tour.

Distance from Honolulu International Airport: Approximately 12 miles; 20 minutes.

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The Kahala Hotel & Resort: 5000 Kahala Ave Honolulu, HI 96816-5498; 800-367-2525

Just a short walk from Ala Moana Shopping Center, the world's largest open-air shopping mall, the Pagoda Hotel's central location is ideal for those who wish to stay near Waikiki and other popular tourist attractions without having to pay the steep Waikiki prices.

The Pagoda is home to the popular Pagoda Floating Restaurant, where guests can dine on a buffet full of local favorites, and which is surrounded by a beautiful koi pond. Guests also have the opportunity to feed the koi several times throughout the day.

Steps from numerous other restaurants and shops, the Pagoda's central location draws both tourists from the mainland and neighboring islands alike.

Distance from Honolulu International Airport: Approximately 8 miles; 15 minutes.

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Pagoda Hotel: 1525 Rycroft Street, Honolulu, Hawaii, 96814; 1-800-472-4632

The JW Marriott Ihilani Resort and Spa at Ko Olina on the leeward side of Oahu has won numerous local, national, and international awards and accolades for not only being a world's best resort, but also for it's amazing spa, restaurant, and golf course.

Being situated on Ko Olina means guests at Ihilani can take a dip into one of the nearby lagoons, or if they prefer more excitement, they can head to Wet 'n' Wild Hawaii, which is just a few minutes away by car.

Numerous beaches, restaurants, and shops are also just a short drive away.

However, the luxurious rooms, amazing views, activities, and amenities may make it difficult to leave the property.

Distance from Honolulu International Airport: Approximately 20 miles; 28 minutes.

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JW Marriott Ihiliani Resort and Spa at Ko Olina: 92-1001 Olani Street, Kapolei, Hawaii 96707; 808-679-0079

Aulani brought the magic of Disney to Oahu in 2011 to the delight of both visitors to the island as well as to locals on a staycation.

Activities are in abundance to keep guests of all ages busy and entertained. The Rainbow Reef, which allows guests to snorkel and get an up-close look at beautiful marine life, and the Character Breakfast, in which guests can dine with their favorite Disney characters, are just two of the many activities available to enjoy.

Other activities include storytelling around a fire pit, hula lessons, and Hawaiian arts and crafts.

There is no need to leave the resort at all with so many activities available, but if you do wish to leave the property to explore the island, a tour desk can help you plan a horseback riding tour, surf lessons, or a sail on a catamaran.

The combined elements of Hawaiian culture and the Disney brand results in a property where many wishes of a vacation in paradise come true.

Distance from Honolulu International Airport: Approximately 20 miles; 30 minutes.

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Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina: 92-1185 Aliʻinui Drive; Kapolei, HI 96707; 808-674-6200

In addition to hotels and resorts located elsewhere on the island, those desiring to stay out of Waikiki can also look for Bed & Breakfasts in Kailua or Beach Houses on the North Shore.

There are numerous options out there. With just a little research, you can find a hotel or resort, or even a Bed & Breakfast or Beach House, to help you have the perfect Hawaiian vacation.

If you plan on visiting Oahu, you may be interested in these other links:

Must-Try Foods On Oahu

Best Breakfasts on Oahu

Family-Friendly Restaurants on Oahu