Best Places to Stay in Oahu for Couples + 25 Oahu Date Ideas

Looking for the best places to stay in Oahu for couples? Consider your search over! Travel blogger Kelena has been to the island of Oahu more than once and in this guide, she’s diving deep into the best areas, most romantic hotels and resorts, and things to do for partners.

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Whether you’re dreaming of an intimate, slow-paced escape or the glitz of famous Waikiki Beach is more your style, this island truly caters to every type of traveler.

Not only will you find a huge range of activities in Oahu for couples, but you’ll also be spoiled for choice when it comes to accommodations.

With everything from pristine beaches and epic surf to rich cultural experiences and the rugged, breathtaking beauty of the Hawaiian islands, Oahu has it all.

Keep reading to learn all about where to stay and over 25 fun and adventurous Oahu date ideas that let you immerse yourselves in heart-pounding adventure, relaxation, and storybook-perfect romance…even if you only have a few days on the island!

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Best Places to Stay in Oahu for Couples

Trying to determine whether Oahu is worth visiting for you and your significant other? I can assure you that YES, this Hawaiian island is great for couples to spend quality time and create unforgettable memories.

Waikiki

Waikiki is a neighborhood in Honolulu, on Oahu’s south shore. It’s also the name of the renowned beach, and easily the most popular location on the island. Some say Waikiki is the most famous destination across all the Hawaiian islands! 

With every imaginable service and amenity, many within walking distance of top resorts (ideal if you happen to forget something on your packing list for Hawaii!), plus more hotel rooms than any other area in the state, it’s the perfect place for anyone and everyone.

Hands-down, it’s one of the best places to stay in Oahu for couples, particularly for first-time visitors.

It’s hard to top the one-two punch of the central location and the romantic backdrop crescent-shaped Waikiki Beach offers, especially at sunset.

Although it’s admittedly touristy, Waikiki is an ideal jumping-off point for exploring a bit of everything: the island’s hottest attractions, beaches, hiking trails, and high-end shopping along Kalākaua Avenue, lined with designer boutiques and luxury brands.

Add to that the huge range of upscale resorts and oceanfront accommodations, and there’s a good reason why many people think Waikiki is one of the best places to stay in Oahu for couples!

In addition, Waikiki has some of the best weather on the island. Situated between Oahu’s leeward coast (the west side) and windward coast (east side), Waikiki’s weather is nearly always warm, relatively dry, and generally pleasant. 

Pros of Waikiki for Couples

• Waikiki Beach. The famously unique crescent shape and large barrier reef protect beachgoers from unpredictable waves, making it a prime location for swimming, surfing, paddling, and other water activities in Oahu for couples.
• Abundance of hotel and resort options. There are MANY hotels and resorts in Waikiki, so you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to the best places to stay in Oahu for couples,
• Ideal location. You’re within a short walk of everything from hotels and restaurants to shopping, nightlife, and beaches. It’s also a great basecamp for a North Shore day trip itinerary and accessing other attractions like Pearl Harbor, Diamond Head, or Iolani Palace.

Cons for Couples Staying in Waikiki

• Very touristy. There’s no sugarcoating it; Waikiki is a major tourist destination and VERY busy. Beaches are crowded and Kalākaua Avenue resembles the Las Vegas Strip, detracting from authentic local culture. You may find activities in Oahu for couples lacking privacy or romance.
• More expensive. Waikiki’s upscale nature often means higher costs for accommodation, dining, and activities compared to other parts of the island.

Best Waikiki Hotels & Resorts for Couples

As I’ve mentioned, there are a TON of fabulous hotels and resorts in Waikiki. However, a handful stand out as the best places to stay in Oahu for couples.

Royal Hawaiian

Another historic property, the iconic Royal Hawaiian, AKA the ‘Pink Palace of the Pacific,’ is one of the best luxury resorts in Oahu for couples. The location puts you in the perfect spot to explore Waikiki. You can even walk to the Honolulu Zoo!

The resort has a full-service spa, its own beachfront, water sports rentals, the Mai Tai Bar, and so much more. It’s also home to Ahaaina, Waikiki’s only oceanfront luau.

Huge bonus for couples traveling with their kiddos: Royal Hawaiian guests have access to the Sheraton Waikiki’s Helumoa Playground, making this one of the best family resorts on Oahu.

Halekulani

Halekulani is a prestigious luxury hotel in the heart of Waikiki, with gorgeous views of Diamond Head. Couples will love the onsite spa (couples’ massage, anyone?), multiple fine dining options, live jazz lounge, and private soaking tubs.

The hotel even has complimentary chocolate and fresh fruit waiting in your room upon arrival, so Halekulani is one of the best places to stay in Oahu for couples on their honeymoon. 

Sheraton Waikiki

The newly-renovated Sheraton Waikiki is a great option for active couples who want to do a bit of everything. You may never want to leave Edge, the adults-only infinity pool that’s been named the best hotel pool in the entire country (more than once!).

Beyond that, the Sheraton has several restaurants and packs its events calendar with live entertainment and activities like SUP lessons, yoga on the beach, ukulele lessons, and lei making.

Moana Surfrider

Inherently romantic and luxurious, the Moana Surfrider, a Westin Resort & Spa, was the first resort in Oahu. It was built in 1901 and today, is affectionately referred to as the “First Lady of Waikiki.”

The architecture is amazing and there’s a top-notch spa and six restaurants, but the star perk is the resort’s own beachfront and private beach access. 

Things to Do for Couples in Waikiki

One of the biggest perks of staying in Waikiki is being close to ALL the best activities in Oahu for couples. Here are just a handful of the options.

Quick note: we didn’t include any specific beaches, because that’s a given! Most people stay right on the best beaches, so there’s no need to work it into your itinerary. 

Hike Diamond Head

Diamond Head is the iconic volcanic crater on Oahu—the one that’s been the backdrop of postcards for decades. To call it ‘popular’ is a gross understatement. Hiking to the summit is far and away one of the top things to do on the island. 

Although the Diamond Head hike is just over 1.5 miles round-trip and paved, don’t underestimate it. The trail climbs over 550 feet in less than one mile! Adventurous couples will be richly rewarded, however, with stunning panoramic views of Honolulu and the island.

Surfing

Waikiki is a renowned surf destination, especially for beginners. The gentle waves, consistent conditions, and warm water attract surfers of all levels. We had so much fun learning to surf here! If surfing is high on your trip agenda, Waikiki is one the best places to stay in Oahu for couples. 

Fun fact: surfing was made mainstream here, popularized by the ‘father of modern surfing,’ Duke Kahanamoku. Because of that, it’s the perfect place to pick up a surfing-related gift or stock up on the best surf wax.

Snorkeling in Hanauma Bay

Hanauma Bay is a protected underwater park and marine sanctuary. Situated inside a volcanic cone, the bay and beach are crescent-shaped and have calm, crystal clear water. Many people say it’s the best snorkeling on the island. 

Reservations are required (available two days in advance, very similar to getting a permit for Glacier National Park), and the park is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Halona Blowhole

Just beyond Hanauma Bay, witness powerful nature at the Halona Blowhole. Volcanic eruptions and lava tubes formed the blowhole over time and today, you can see waves shoot 30 feet into the air when conditions are right.

Although it doesn’t necessarily happen with regularity, locals say the best opportunities are windy days as the tide comes in. 

Consider packing a picnic to enjoy at nearby Halona Cove. Check the blowhole and if there isn’t much activity, go swim or snorkel in the cove for awhile and check again.

Waikiki Aquarium

A rare hidden gem on Oahu, the Waikiki Aquarium is small but exceptionally well-done. It’s often overshadowed by the uber-famous attractions nearby, so it’s rarely crowded—a nice break from the constant hustle and bustle elsewhere in Waikiki.

Interestingly, the aquarium was founded in 1904, making it the second-oldest in the US, behind only the New York Aquarium in Brooklyn!

Honolulu Zoo 

The Honolulu Zoo is one of the most popular things to do in Oahu for couples looking for a break from the beach and hiking. Small but mighty, the zoo features a diverse range of mostly tropical animal species. It’s also on the royal Queen Kapiʻolani Regional Park, very close to the aquarium.

Windward Side (East Coast)

The east coast, or windward side, of Oahu reveals the stunning, rugged natural beauty of the Ko’olau Mountains. These towering emerald green peaks provide a striking backdrop to the relaxed residential towns of Waimānalo, Kailua, and Kāne’ohe.

It’s no surprise dozens of movies and TV series have been filmed here, including Jurassic Park, 50 First Dates, and Lost. 

Here, lush natural landscape and dramatic mountains offer one of the best places to stay in Oahu for couples who treasure adventure. The laid-back setting encourages you to unplug and reconnect, with outdoor activities ranging from hiking to chasing waterfalls and ziplining.

If you’re a first-time visitor or you’ve only been to Honolulu, the slow pace of the east coast feels like a whole new world (in the best way!). 

As its name implies, the windward coast of Oahu is the windy side. Northeasterly trade winds blow across the Pacific and meet the Ko’olau range on this side of the island, resulting in regular wind and frequent rain, especially in the summer months.

While it rains almost daily on the windward side (that’s how everything gets so green!), it’s generally light showers in the afternoons and evenings, and it’s rare that storms are severe enough to cancel plans.

Pros of the Windward Coast for Couples

• Stunning natural beauty. The dramatic mountains, jungles, waterfalls, and white sand beaches are straight out of a fairytale.
• Endless outdoor adventure. Active couples will find infinite Oahu date ideas, including hiking, kitesurfing, horseback riding, and more.
• Authentic ‘old Hawaii’ charm. Experience a more authentic sense of aloha with slow-paced residential towns, much less developed than modern Honolulu and Waikiki.

Cons of Staying on Oahu’s Windward Side

• Little entertainment. Compared to bustling Honolulu, there are far fewer dining, shopping, and nightlife options. Of course, for some, this could be the reason it’s one of the best places to stay in Oahu for couples!
• Limited accommodation. There are very few actual hotels on the east coast, and even vacation rentals are few and far between. 
• You NEED a rental car. In Waikiki, you can easily get away with not having a vehicle during your visit, but you’ll need to drive quite a bit on the windward side.
• Weather. We hate to add a fourth ‘con,’ because we adore the windward coast, but there’s no denying that you’ll deal with more frequent rain here. Thankfully, it’s typically only short-lived showers. 

Where to Stay on the East Coast as a Couple

While Oahu’s windward side is extremely limited when it comes to hotels, there is one fantastic option. Paradise Bay Resort is one of the best places to stay in Oahu for couples who want to avoid the hustle and bustle in Waikiki, but also want a bit of luxury.

The laid-back property overlooks Kaneohe Bay and the mountains, and has a gorgeous pool and floating docks.

In addition to Paradise Bay, the east side has a handful of private bed and breakfasts and cottage rentals.

Things to Do for Couples on the Windward Side

Although things are physically more spaced out on the East Coast, there’s no shortage of activities in Oahu for couples here. Especially adventurous, nature-loving couples who aren’t afraid of a little road trip!

Lanikai Beach

Lanikai Beach is the crown jewel of Oahu’s Kailua area, and many people think it’s one of the best beaches on the island. It’s best known for its white sand and crystal-clear waters, offering excellent swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling.

The beach is also famous for it picturesque views of the nearby Mokulua “Twin” Islands, which sit one mile offshore.

Lanikai Pillbox Trail

Speaking of Lanikai, another of the best activities in Oahu for couples is hiking the Lanikai Pillbox Trail. This short but challenging, steep hike, also called Ka’iwa Ridge, takes you on a trek to two WWII bunkers.

At the top, hikers are rewarded with panoramic vistas of the ocean, surrounding neighborhoods, and lush mountains. This is also one of the best sunrise hikes on Oahu, but beware that it gets very crowded.

Kaneohe Sandbar

The Kaneohe Sandbar is actually a series of small sand islands in Kaneohe Bay, about one mile offshore. The islands are visible during low tide, but completely submerged at high tide.

It’s a popular destination for snorkeling and paddling, and several tours visit the sandbar. If you’re adventurous, one of the best activities in Oahu for couples is paddling your own kayak out here during low tide (Paradise Bay Resort guests get complimentary kayak rentals).

This Kaneohe Sandbar snorkeling tour includes snacks and drinks, snorkel gear, and paddleboards, and has a perfect 5-star rating!

Take a Hike

The Lanikai Pillbox is an excellent hike, but it’s far from the only option on the windward coast of Oahu. Here are some others to consider. 

• Koko Crater Railway Trail: STEEP, non-traditional trail with 1,028 steps that lead to the top of stunning Koko Head Crater
• Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail: family-friendly hike to the iconic red-roofed Makapu’u lighthouse
• Kuli’ou’ou Ridge Trail: moderately challenging hike along the ridge with nearly 1,800 feet of elevation gain

Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden

Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden is in Kāne’ohe, just inland from the beach. It spans over 400 acres and showcases various plants and trees from eight different tropical regions.

The botanical gardens offers walking trails, tranquil ponds, and beautiful views, and best of all, it’s totally FREE! That alone makes it one of the most appealing and unique Oahu date ideas. 

Interestingly, the botanical garden was originally created for flood protection. Today, it’s a highly Instagrammable spot (especially the entrance!). 

Kualoa Ranch

While Kualoa Ranch is a private nature reserve, it’s also a working cattle ranch on Oahu’s northeastern coast. It spans over 4,000 acres, known for scenic landscapes including lush valleys and dramatic mountains.

That explains why Jurassic Park and Lost both filmed here, at several locations!

Visitors can go on a wide variety of outdoor tours at Kualoa Ranch, including off-roading, ziplining, E-bike, horseback riding, sailing in a catamaran, learning how to cultivate taro, and even exploring a secret island. One of the most popular tours, unsurprisingly, is the 2.5-hour Jurassic Adventure Tour.

North Shore

An hour-ish north of Waikiki, Oahu’s North Shore is a legendary surf mecca. Big wave surfing was pioneered here in the 1950s, and remains a major draw today. The biggest waves, often exceeding 30 feet, dominate the North Shore in the winter months.

It’s incredible watching expert surfers ride these monsters, but unless you’re an expert yourself, watch from the safety of the beach. 

Summer brings calmer waters, attracting lots of beginner surfers. Unsurprisingly, one of the best activities in Oahu for couples during the summer is taking surf lessons. 

Like any great surf town, the North Shore has fantastic beautiful beaches. A whopping 51 of them, in fact, dotting an 11-mile stretch of pristine coastline.

Some of the best, which you’ve likely heard of, include Sunset Beach and Waimea Beach, both offering ideal summer swimming conditions. Because of the insane swells, you do not want to swim anywhere in the North Shore in the winter.

While there are always surfers to watch, peaceful North Shore beaches are also excellent for snorkeling and romantic leisurely strolls. 

In stark contrast to its sparkling beaches and unmatched surf culture, the North Shore is also largely a rural area, with countless farms and ranches. The pace of life here moves a bit slower even than “island time,” and the local culture and vibe is unlike anywhere else in the world.

Locals are friendly and welcoming, hard work and discipline are core values, and you’re just as likely to be in a food truck line with a celebrity surfer as with a farmer. If you’ve ever made some stops on a Road to Hana itinerary on Maui, the North Shore will feel somewhat familiar!

Also, the North Shore food scene is incredible, taking farm-to-table to the next level. You’ll find uber-fresh ingredients, along with an abundance of local food trucks and fruit stands. This is among the best places to stay in Oahu for couples who value relaxation, authenticity, and small towns. 

Pros of Staying on the North Shore

• Fabulous beaches. This is one of the main reasons to stay on, or at least visit, the North Shore. The combination of great surf and few tourists creates gorgeous, unspoiled beaches. 
• Unmatched atmosphere and beauty. The North Shore offers a laid-back atmosphere, with immaculate beaches, lush greenery, and stunning ocean views absolutely everywhere, making it one of the best places to stay in Oahu for couples looking to unwind.
• Water activities galore. World renowned hub for water sports and activities, such as surfing (including wind surfing and kite surfing!), snorkeling, paddleboarding, fishing, boating, and shark diving. 
• Authentic local culture. Couples can immerse themselves in the North Shore’s rich history and colorful culture, with charming farm towns, surf beach after surf beach, delicious food trucks, and the opportunity to experience traditional luaus.
• No crowds. Compared to Waikiki and other touristy areas, the North Shore is far less crowded, providing a more intimate, romantic environment for couples.

Cons of Oahu’s North Shore

• Limited dining and nightlife. The North Shore is not known for nightlife or having a bunch of eateries (although the food up here is ultra fresh!), so if you’re looking for happy hours and vibrant clubs, Honolulu would be the best area. 
• Traffic. This sounds counter-intuitive, but because most people stay in Waikiki and day-trip to the North Shore, the main road between them can get extremely congested during peak tourist season and major surf tournaments.
• Weather variability. Weather can be slightly more unpredictable here, with strong wind gusts, occasional heavy rain (usually in short bursts, extremely rarely long enough to cause you to change plans) and enormous waves. The surf is much calmer in the summer months. 
• Limited shopping. Like its food and nightlife scenes, the North Shore has far fewer shopping opportunities, outside of farmers’ markets and small-town stores.

Best Oahu Hotels for Couples on The North Shore

Although everything is a bit more limited on the North Shore, including accommodation, there are a few fabulous options. In fact, one of the best places to stay in Oahu for couples overall, Turtle Bay, is on the North Shore. 

Turtle Bay Resort

Turtle Bay Resort is the only proper resort on the North Shore, but that doesn’t make it any less impressive. On the contrary, the sprawling resort underwent extensive recent multi-million-dollar renovations, and has won CN Traveler’s Reader’s Choice Awards every year since 2017.

Specifically, it’s the best luxury hotel for honeymooners, with an incredible spa and tons of Oahu date ideas onsite. Of course, there’s also an excellent chance you’ll encounter some sea turtles in the bay!

Notably, Turtle Bay also runs a renowned surf school. The bay is calm, making it the perfect spot for beginners, and a great alternative to the Pipeline and Sunset Beach.

Surfers of all experience levels are welcome, and you can even book the unique ‘Surf With a Pup’ experience (which is exactly what it sounds like, surfing with a dog!). 

Courtyard by Marriott Oahu North Shore

This no-frills Courtyard by Marriott hotel in Laie is an excellent option if you’re looking for something less luxurious (and more affordable!). The hotel caters primarily to people visiting the BYU campus, but has a fair amount of amenities.

You’ll find a cute bistro, outdoor pool and hot tub, and onsite beach rentals. The beach is a literal one-minute walk, the Polynesian Cultural Center is three minutes, and the university is 11. 

Activities in Oahu for Couples on The North Shore

By now, you know that most of the things to do on the North Shore revolve around outdoor activities. Here’s a closer look at the best options for every type of couple. 

Watch Legendary Surfers at Banzai Pipeline

Even if you don’t know the first thing about surfing, watching all the action from the Banzai Pipeline, AKA Ehukai Beach Park and most commonly called just the “Pipeline,” is one of the best things to do on the North Shore.

This beach, or more specifically, its surf, is some of the most revered in the world. Especially in December, you’ll find surfers from every corner of the globe riding waves here.

Authentic Luau at the Polynesian Cultural Center

The Polynesian Cultural Center draws many people to the North Shore in its own right. In fact, it’s repeatedly named the top attraction in all of the Hawaiian islands.

Widely considered the most authentic luau in Hawaii, the Ali’i Luau is a major highlight of the cultural center. However, it’s far from the only thing to see or do here.

Each of the immersive villages showcases a unique Polynesian culture, including Hawaii, Tahiti, Fiji, Samoa, Aotearoa, and Tonga. Visitors can go on canoe tours, watch fire dancing performances, and shop for artisan Hawaiian crafts. 

Book your Polynesian Cultural Center tickets in advance, as show times (even entire days!) sell out.

Waimea Falls

Seeing 45-foot-tall Waimea Falls up close is one of the best activities in Oahu for couples. The waterfall is in Waimea Valley, a historically significant cultural site and beautiful botanical garden. Your experience here will be VERY different from the hustle and bustle of Waikiki! 

Visitors can walk the easy, paved 1.9-mile Waimea Valley Trail or opt to take the shuttle for $10 each way. The real highlight is swimming at the falls, which is available most days but dependent on conditions.

A lifeguard makes the decision every morning, so we recommend calling (808) 638-7766 after 9:00 am to check on swimming status.

Hike Ka’ena Point

One of my favorite activities we did in Oahu was the Ka’ena Point Hike, a coastal trail leading to the island’s westernmost point. The beautiful 5-mile hike has ocean views and rugged coastline, letting you experience authentic Hawaii. 

The end of the trail leads to a bird sanctuary, where you can find Laysan albatross and other bird species. There may also be chances to see whales and monk seals along the way during migration season. This area is also known for its cultural significance, as it’s believed to be where the spirits of the deceased jump off of Ka’ena Point to pass into the afterlife.

Note that there are two access points for this hike, one from the North Shore and one on the island’s west side. Being that we’re focusing on activities in Oahu for couples on the North Shore, I’m specifically recommending the Ka’ena Point hike via Farrington Highway. 

Hit the Beach

North Shore beaches are renowned for their soft golden sand, beautiful sunsets, and powerful waves. Of course, they attract professional and expert surfers from all over the world, but they’re also ideal for swimming and working on your tan.

You seriously cannot go wrong with any of them. However, some of the best beaches include Waimea Bay, Sunset Beach, Ehukai Beach (Pipeline), and Pupukea Beach (Sharks Cove).

Visit the Dole Plantation

Many people say Oahu’s Dole Plantation is a tourist trap, while others rave about their experience. In my opinion, it is definitely touristy, but it’s also a unique experience that teaches visitors about pineapple farming in Hawaii (and its significance).

If you’re a first-time visitor, go do it — once. It’s certainly one of the most popular activities in Oahu for couples. 

You can hop on the train tour, try your luck at getting out of the world’s largest maze, grab some goodies from the country store, and of course, sample all things pineapple. Don’t miss the world famous soft-serve Dole whip!

Dozens of tour operators include the Dole Plantation as a stop on ‘circle island tours,’ visiting up to 15 other attractions in one day. If that’s a bit much for you, check out the hand-picked tours below.

These three include just 1-2 other worthwhile stops, such as the Halona Blowhole, Sunset Beach, Haleiwa town, or local food trucks.

Haleiwa

Tiny Haleiwa is a quintessential Hawaiian surf town, and the hub of the North Shore. You’ll find a variety of shops, eateries, and cultural attractions in vibrant Haleiwa. One of the best Oahu date ideas is to just stroll around.

Whatever you do (and eat!), you absolutely have to get an acai bowl. Many Hawaii aficianados swear the best ones come from the North Shore. Pop into colorful Sunrise Shack, Haleiwa Bowls, or Farm to Barn Cafe & Juicery.

Also, notably, most Oahu shark cage diving tours depart from Haleiwa. If you’ve ever wanted to check this off your bucket list as a couple, this is the best place to do it!

This shark cage dive is the best overall, offering a choice between getting into the cage underwater or watching from the comfort of the boat deck.

Ko Olina

Ko Olina, on Oahu’s southwestern (AKA leeward) coast, is a planned resort community known for its upscale resorts and four beautiful man-made lagoons. For anyone who’s been to Maui, it has a similar vibe to Ka’anapali.

The Ko Olina area offers a peaceful yet bustling ambiance, with dozens of restaurants, shops, and activities all within walking distance, plus some of the best resorts on the island. It’s also a fairly short drive to Waikiki. 

With a large selection of upscale, romantic hotels like the Four Seasons Resort Oahu and hotels like the Aulani Disney Resort catering to a family vacation, it’s no surprise that Ko Olina is considered one of the best places to stay in Oahu for couples looking a more luxurious getaway.

The four man-made lagoons at Ko Olina offer a protected, safe environment for swimming and snorkeling.

It’s worth noting that while Ko Olina has a luxurious atmosphere, because it’s a planned resort community, you may not get a true sense local culture or Aloha spirit compared to other parts of the island.

Weather in the Ko Olina area is nearly identical to Honolulu, practically always dry, sunny, and warm. Even when it does rain, showers are typically very short-lived. 

Pros of Staying in Ko Olina

• Luxurious resorts. One of the main things that makes Ko Olina one of the best places to stay in Oahu for couples is the abundance of upscale, romantic hotels and resorts known for exceptional service, beautiful accommodations, and top-notch amenities.
• Fine dining options. There’s no shortage of excellent restaurants in Ko Olina ideal for romantic dinners, plus a wide variety of options.
• Quiet and secluded. Ko Olina is a fairly quiet, laid-back community with limited nightlife, so it’s a great place for couples to connect and check out many Oahu date ideas.
• Ideal weather. Since the island’s leeward west side is drier, there are typically more sunny, bluebird days.

Cons of Staying in the Ko Olina Area

• Pricier. The luxurious nature of Ko Olina means a higher price tag, particularly for accommodation and eating out.
• Somewhat isolated. Although not nearly as much as the North Shore or east coast, Ko Olina is somewhat isolated from the island’s busier tourist areas (with traffic, anywhere from 45-50 minutes to Waikiki).
• Not as lush as other parts of Oahu. The lack of rain on the west coast means it’s drier overall, so you don’t get that signature rainforest-like greenery and lushness.
• Lacking authentic aloha. Comparing it again to Ka’anapali on Maui, Ko Olina was literally planned for tourists and lacks many natural attractions or local small businesses.

Where to Stay in Ko Olina for Couples

Some of the best resorts in all of Hawaii are in Ko Olina, making it one of the best places to stay in Oahu for couples. Here are a few of my top picks. 

Four Seasons Resort Oahu At Ko Olina

A prominent luxury hotel, the Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina is known for its unmatched amenities. Often described as “posh without being stuffy,” this resort is also extremely family-friendly.

The Four Seasons has multiple outdoor pools with Pacific Ocean views (including an adults-only infinity pool), restaurants, an excellent spa, and onsite activities like resin surfboard painting, stargazing, and hula lessons. 

Marriott Ko Olina Beach Club

Marriott’s Ko Olina Beach Club is probably the best resort for couples overall in the Ko Olina area. It offers literally everything you want in a romantic Hawaiian vacation: a private beach, multiple pools and hot tubs, on-site dining and room service, fitness center, and a choice of elegant rooms.

Villas include full kitchens and even washers and dryers for longer stays or family vacation. Notably, the Marriott Beach Club doesn’t charge any resort fees. 

Embassy Suites By Hilton Oahu Kapolei

Hands-down, if you’re on a tight budget, this Embassy Suites hotel is one of the best places to stay in Oahu for couples. While it’s not on the beach, you’ll be out enjoying all the fun activities in Oahu for couples anyway. Plus, one of the hotel’s major perks is a free shuttle to the best area beaches!

The hotel also has an outdoor swimming pool, a casual restaurant, and complimentary made-to-order breakfast and evening cocktail hour.

Best Things to Do in Ko Olina for Couples

From outdoor activities to an important historical monument, here are some of the best the things to do in the Ko Olina area.

Explore Ko Olina’s Four Lagoons

The four man-made lagoons are Ko Olina’s main attraction. They’re not only beautiful, but also shallow and calm (no strong currents or waves here, even when the rest of the island is experiencing rougher conditions!) for swimming, snorkeling, SUP, and other water recreation. 

Insider tip: the fourth lagoon (Ulua) tends to be quieter, as it’s at the only one without a hotel built directly on it. In addition, it has the most parking. All four lagoons are connected by a paved 1.5-mile walkway, so it’s easy to hop from one to another from just about any Ko Olina resort. 

Helicopter Tour

Like much of Hawaii, one of the best ways to see Oahu is from the sky. There are countless short tours that depart from Honolulu (link*), but the best around-the-island tours depart from Ko Olina. 

Golf

Golf enthusiasts love Ko Olina because it’s home to one of Hawaii’s best golf courses: Ko Olina Golf Course. The highly awarded Ted Robinson-designed course offers a challenging and scenic experience, making it one of the top activities in Oahu for couples. 

Visit the Pearl Harbor National Memorial

Ko Olina is the best homebase if you want to visit Pearl Harbor, arguably one of the most popular activities in Oahu for couples (or anyone, for that matter). It’s 20 minutes away, closer than Waikiki.

Here’s a secret: You can absolutely see Pearl Harbor on your own, without booking a tour. 

Most people primarily want to see the sunk USS Arizona. Like most other National Park Service-managed sites, you’ll have to make advance reservations via Recreation.gov to do so.

Tickets for the 45-minute tour experience are just $1, released eight weeks out and again 24 hours in advance. This process is identical to Glacier National Park’s system for Going-to-the-Sun Road, and many other national parks. 

If you don’t get advance reservations, you can try for standby space on one of the shuttle boats the day of. However, this is not guaranteed. Some people get on a boat within 15 minutes and some wait hours and never get a spot. The Coast Guard strictly regulates boat capacity, so it isn’t negotiable.

Besides the USS Arizona, you can also purchase tickets to other experiences at the national memorial. Some of the most popular include the Battleship Missouri and the submarine museum. 

For people who prefer the ease of a guided tour, there are many options for visiting Pearl Harbor. 

When is the Best Time to Visit Oahu?

The best times to visit Oahu overall are from April through May and September through December.

These months offer the most pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and more budget-friendly accommodation and travel options compared to peak seasons. Also, you’ll avoid major holidays, spring break, and summer vacation. 

For both whale-watching and big waves on the North Shore, the best time to visit Oahu is from November to February.

How Many Days on Oahu are Enough?

This is always a tricky question to answer, because there are just so many variables. If I had to give you one straightforward answer, I’d say a 5-7 day trip is ideal for most people.

That gives you several days to enjoy many of the best activities in Oahu for couples, assuming that you’re staying in Waikiki or somewhere else in Honolulu. 

Keep in mind that just traveling around the island can be a big time suck, and most people don’t have full days on arrival and departure days. For that reason, I recommend 8-10 days if you can swing it. That ensures you can thoroughly, authentically explore Oahu. 

All that said, you can absolutely visit for a 3-4 day long weekend if that’s what you have available (or if you find a killer package deal, common for flights from West Coast cities). If this is your plan, focus your itinerary in one area to maximize your time enjoying the island and minimize driving. 

Is Oahu Good for Couples?

Oahu is an excellent romantic destination for couples. From intimate moments at the beach to heart-pounding outdoor adventures and taking in a Hawaiian sunset over a meal, there are countless amazing Oahu date ideas.

Plus, of course, there are many, many hotel and resort options for the best places to stay in Oahu for couples. 

Which Side of Oahu is Best for Couples?

There’s really no ‘best’ side of Oahu—this is very subjective, and depends mostly on the types of things you want to do and see on your trip. 

If I had to make ONE recommendation, I’d encourage you to choose between Waikiki and the North Shore. Better yet, split your stay and experience a few nights in both! 

Many first-time visitors choose Waikiki because of its proximity to literally everything. You have a front row seat to amazing beaches, tour departures, countless hotels and resorts, and you can easily get by without a car, walking to many activities in Oahu for couples.

However, Waikiki is also extremely touristy and often feels more like Las Vegas. 

The North Shore is one of the best places to stay in Oahu for couples looking for that quintessential surf town vibe. Prime time for epic waves is winter, but come summer, the pristine beaches are near deserted. 

Both the west (leeward) and east (windward) coasts of Oahu are ideal for people looking to “get away from it all.” They’re also home to some divine beaches (more on that below).

The major difference is that the east side has more unpredictable weather, while the west is nearly always dry and sunny. While both are somewhat remote, the windward side caters to adventure enthusiasts, while the west side serves families with the huge Ko Olina planned resort community. 

Which Side of Oahu Has the Best Beaches?

This question is, of course, highly subjective, but in general, Oahu’s North Shore beaches are widely considered some of the best.

These beaches are specifically renowned for their rugged natural beauty, vast stretches of soft white or golden sand, and consistently good surf. You can’t go wrong at Waimea Bay, Sunset Beach, or Malaekahana Beach. 

The east coast comes in a close second, with some of the top contenders including Hanauma Bay, white sand Lanikai Beach, Kailua Beach, and Halona Beach Cove. 

Luckily, many of the best places to stay in Oahu for couples are right on or near the top beaches. 

Can You Enjoy Oahu Without a Car?

While you can visit Oahu without a car, especially if you stay in Waikiki or elsewhere in Honolulu, I highly recommend renting one for at least part of your trip. Not only is it more convenient and reliable, but you can also explore more of the island and not be limited to one location.

With that being said, if you want to avoid renting a vehicle for whatever reason, look for hotels with airport shuttles and/or shuttles to local attractions, or within walking distance to beaches and other points of interest.

Quickly compare Oahu rental car prices!

While you’re here, be sure to save this article to Pinterest for later reference as you plan your trip.

Kelena is a curious Canadian travel blogger who loves exploring her own backyard and traveling to other countries worldwide (especially the US!). She loves sharing her experiences and information for others to enjoy through her writing at The Travelling City Girl. 

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