If you are looking to get away to an incredible vacation spot in Hawaii, the island of Oahu is a perfect blend of tropical surf hangouts, modern cityscapes, and assorted cultures. Oahu is nicknamed “The Gathering Place” because of its central location, size, and diversity.
These 5 AirBnB rentals in Oahu are the best because they give you great options based on price, location, and access to activities. Whether you are looking to relax on the beaches, explore the natural wonders, or roam the bustling cities, these rentals are connected to everything Oahu has to offer.
There are tons of amazing places to stay in Oahu that will satisfy your wanderlust and accommodate your budget, but it can be intimidating to find the right choice for you. We have the details on how to find the perfect place to stay and what to do while vacationing on the third-largest Hawaiian island.
What's the Overall Best AirBnB Place Rental on Oahu and Why?
If you are looking for an AirBnB rental that is affordable, centrally located and packed with amenities, then the Pacific Monarch Condominium hosted by Jen & David in the Waikiki neighborhood in Honolulu is perfect for you. This 4.94-star rated private condo is on the 26th floor, and it offers views of the city, ocean, and mountains, all from one spot.
Staying at this AirBnB rental is a steal, averaging about $150 per night, and it comes in a valuable location that grants you access to all Oahu has to offer. The hosts provide beach chairs, towels and a kitchen for you to use, which means you can spend less on renting beach amenities and restaurants.
What Makes this AirBnB the Best
If you are looking for places to explore, this property is within walking distance of most of Waikiki, which is where the majority of resorts in Oahu are located. Here, you can surf at Wakiki’s famous beaches, explore the vibrant city life, and discover the history of the city where Hawaiian royalty used to gather and play.
This property is perfect for experiencing the Hawaiian nature and culture because of its accessibility to all the attractions around it. Not only is it in the heart of a gorgeous city, but Waikiki is about 30 minutes away from the other attractions in Oahu, meaning you are a short drive from iconic places like Mount Leahi, Pearl Harbor, and Iolani Palace.
For days you want to relax and unwind, this AirBnB rental offers incredible amenities, like:
A rooftop pool and hottub
Complimentary wifi and cable TV
A gorgeous private patio
This means you can see the astonishing sights of Waikiki and relax under the tropical Hawaiin sun, all without having to leave the property. This rental truly is a perfect place for experiencing all aspects of Oahu life.
The 5 Best AirBnB Hawaii Oahu Rentals
There are plenty of incredible AirBnB rentals in Oahu, and as the third largest island in Hawaii, you can experience a variety of locations packed with rich history, incredible nature and exotic culture. The most popular places to stay on Oahu are:
- The South shore
- The North shore
- The mountains
- The windward side
Anywhere you stay on the island will be within driving distance from all the other attractions, but choosing the best AirBnB for you can mean you are a short distance from your ideal activities.
(Before you can stay on the island, you’ll need a way to get there. Check out the cheapest way to fly to Hawaii!)
1. The “Best Kept Secret on Oahu”
If you want to be immersed in Hawaii’s gorgeous natural landscape, then you should stay at Peter J’s cottage that he calls the “Best Kept Secret on Oahu.”
This property is a cottage in Waialua, which is on the Northwest shore of Oahu, and it offers a residential experience. The host recommends the property for couples, but it accommodates up to four guests. With this cottage offering a full bathroom, kitchen, and cable and internet, you can live and stay among the locals.
From here, you are a short distance from beaches, fields and mountains. This property is perfect if you want to surf, swim, and hike in a gorgeous and quiet corner of the island. Waialua is perfect for getting away from the crowds and exploring the local offerings.
2. The “Designer Villa - Panoramic Ocean View”
If you are looking for a lot of private space with breathtaking views of the mountains and ocean, then the “Designer Villa – Panoramic Ocean View” house hosted by Andrew is perfect for you. This large rental is on the windward side of Oahu in Kaneohe and hosts up to 16 guests, making it perfect for families and wedding parties.
The property is in the Koolau Mountain range and overlooks the Kaneohe Bay, which is home to famous places like:
- Hawaii’s only barrier reef
- Coconut island
- The Kaneohe Bay Sandbar
This rental grants you access to all the beauty and excursions you can explore on the windward side.
While you are relaxing in the villa, you can spread out in the 4,500 sq.ft. property and enjoy the incredible decor and natural views. This property comes with internet access, cable TV, and a grill. Here, you can feel like you are in the remote mountains while still staying connected.
3. The “Kailua Pineapple Studio”
The Kailua Pineapple Studio hosted by Kristine is perfect for people looking to stay closer to the beach on the windward side. This adorable and modern studio is in the small town of Kailua, and it is a short walk to the gorgeous beaches that the area is famous for.
Staying in this rental is like stepping into a pineapple because it is brightly colored and decorated with Hawaiian-inspired prints. It also has the essential basics in the kitchen, bathroom, and laundry room, so this cute studio can feel like home during your stay.
The location of this AirBnB rental is perfect for people looking to stay in the gorgeous and quaint town of Kailua. Here, you are a short walk or bike ride from the relaxing Kailua and Lanikai beaches, adorable local restaurants and boutiques, and the beautiful cliffs of the Koolau Mountains.
4. The “Luxury Retreat On Maunalani Heights Honolulu”
If you want to experience the mountains while having easy access to the beaches and culture in Honolulu, then the Luxury Retreat On Maunalani Heights Honolulu hosted by Michael is your perfect match. This bungalow is nestled in the mountains, offering a quiet retreat to up to 4 guests after visiting the bright city of Honolulu.
Not only can you see the gorgeous sights of Honolulu from this rental, but it is a short drive to all the beaches, shopping centers and restaurants the capital city has to offer.
This property also has access to the incredible Lanipo Trail, where you can hike the 7.5 miles through the breathtaking mountains of Oahu. From here, you will be able to view Hawaii from new heights, giving you the chance to see the waterfalls and streams near the Ka’au Crater.
This property also boasts being near the famous Diamond Head Summit Trail. Diamond Head, which is also known as Leʻahi to natives, is a volcanic cone and popular destination. This trail is not as intense or long as the Lanipo trail, but it provides views from the clouds above Honolulu that adventurers of all levels will want to experience.
5. The “Islander's Ocean View”
The Islander’s Ocean View hosted by Mariel is an adorable studio condominium available in Honolulu. The vibrant interior matches the bustling activity of the city surrounding it, and it is only a few blocks from the beach. This rental is perfect if you want to enjoy the beaches and nightlife in Honolulu.
Here, you can relax in a centrally-located condo in between excursions. This property is utterly adorable and bright, and the host offers a variety of complementary essentials that will make this place feel like a second home. You can also bask in the sun and watch the city life from the gorgeous lanai that gives you a view of the ocean.
Being in Honolulu means you are a quick walk or drive from incredible beaches and restaurants. This rental is perfect for people looking to have central access to the hotspots of the city.
What is There to Do After Checking into My AirBnB Oahu Rental?
Oahu offers so much, from blended cultures to beaches and mountains, so there are plenty of places to have incredible experiences. One of the first things to decide when you arrive in Oahu is how you will be getting around the island. There are several options, and the most popular are:
- Renting a car
- Using Uber and Lyft
- Taking public transportation
Most travellers recommend renting a car because it gives you the freedom to choose your destination. Uber and Lyft are great and accessible ways to get around, and while the trips can add up, you have a chance to talk to locals. Public transportation is the most affordable, but you will have to pay attention to bus stops and schedules.
Once you have a way around, you will have to decide what type of experiences interest you. As an island, Oahu is surrounded by water, so it is a popular beach destination to surf, swim, and boat. The area you choose to stay in can help determine your crowd level. The North shore of the island is quieter, while the South shore is popular.
(You could even try an Airbnb experience in Hawaii if you are worried about finding things to do!)
The Best Attractions in Oahu
An array of top attractions in Oahu that will captivate visitors of all interests and ages. Oahu is also perfect for hikers and adventurers of all levels. Not only can you relax on the beaches and in the ocean, but you can summit the gorgeous mountains. Hiking can give you the chance to see incredible sights and hidden oases. You will not want to miss out on the unique and exotic nature trails Oahu offers.
The island has unforgettable restaurants that you will not find at any other vacation spot. Oahu is famous for seafood and poke bowls, and there are also plenty of quaint cafes and healthy options. Be sure to look at all the unique restaurants Oahu has to find mouth watering meals during your trip.
Being in the Pacific Ocean means that Oahu is a crosspoint of Eastern, Western, and Native Hawaiian cultures. The island is filled with unique history and cultural sites that showcase the blend of people who have inhabited the island. Take some time to explore the cultural attractions of the different people who make up “The Gathering Place.” There are plenty of things to do in Hawaii!
Conclusion
Oahu is packed with incredible experiences to make your trip there unforgettable, and the place you choose to stay at can really determine the type of trip you will have. Whether you are looking for the iconic and gorgeous Honolulu hotspots or a quiet mountain oasis, Oahu has something for everyone.
Oahu is also great for people with different budgets and interests. Be sure to look into all the places and sites that interest you before you go so that you can get an idea of how much your trip will cost. While you are there, you should also ask locals what sort of things they recommend to make your experience even more special.