O’ahu Travel Guide

Eclectic and charming, O’ahu is defined by striking beaches, luxurious resorts and world-class shopping all at once, affording the ultimate island getaway. Discover the best of O’ahu with our travel guide, curated by the Cruise Experts (us!).

BEST BEACHES

Waikiki Beach
Waikiki Beach is one of O’ahu’s most famed beaches, and for good reason. This iconic jewel is lined with high-end resorts, restaurants and shopping, making it ideal for those seeking a mix of sun, sand and hotspot vibrancy. The gentle waves here are perfect for beginner surfers, while the dramatic Diamond Head backdrop affords postcard-worthy photos. Whether you’re catching a sunset catamaran cruise, enjoying an oceanside meal or strolling along the shoreline, Waikiki Beach is a must-visit destination for the quintessential Hawaiian experience.

Sunset Beach 
For a taste of legendary North Shore glory, head to Sunset Beach. Known for its mammoth Winter waves, this bank is a mecca for seasoned surfers. During the Summer months, however, the ocean calms down, offering ideal conditions for snorkelling and swimming. It’s also one of the best spots to witness those unrivalled Hawaiian sunsets. Stay at nearby Courtyard by Marriott Oahu North Shore where all the beauty and waves of Sunset Beach is met with total relaxation and renewal.

Waimea Bay Beach Park
Waimea Bay Beach Park is marked another gem on the North Shore. While renowned for its big wave surfing competitions in the Winter, the Summer sees this wonder transform into a bay of tranquillity, landscaped by lush cliffs and translucent waters.

BEST RESORTS IN WAIKIKI

Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa

At Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa coastal splendour and the energetic city centre converge. Poised across the road from Waikiki Beach, and within walking distance of the shops, bars and restaurants, this resort affords the ideal base to explore the area. Bask in captivating sunset vistas from your private balcony, indulge in traditional Lomi Lomi massages at the day spa, lounge by the sprawling outdoor pool, or indulge in local cuisine at the resort’s acclaimed restaurants. Aesthetically beautiful, Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa boasts some of the largest rooms in Waikiki.

Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa

Experience a luxurious beachfront oasis at the transformed Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa. Standing in the heart of Waikiki Beach, this palm-fringed resort is just steps from the ocean on one side, and surrounded by boutique shops and iconic landmarks on the other. The Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa has recently undergone a multi-million-dollar renovation, now offering a range of award-winning facilities. Spend your days by one of two outdoor saltwater pools or take to the advanced fitness centre. Indulge in one of five restaurants, enjoy nightly poolside entertainment at the Moana Terrace, or recover with a rejuvenating treatment at the Royal Kalia Spa (an Aveda concept facility). Meanwhile, the rooms elicit a calming, coastal aesthetic to ensure ultimate tranquillity.

Moana Surfrider

Perched on the famed golden sands, Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa (locally known as ‘The First Lady of Waikiki’) marks Waikiki’s first hotel! Defined by its stunning 100-year-old heritage design, this holiday hero exudes genuine Hawaiian hospitality, outstanding facilities and beachfront grandeur. Indulge at Moana Lani Spa, take advantage of the state-of-the-art fitness centre, or transcend time with a historical tour of the hotel. Revel in six onsite restaurants and bars, where locally-sourced ingredients entice, or lounge poolside with a cocktail from The Beach Bar.

SHOPPING

International Market Place

Plan a trip to International Market Place for a shopper’s paradise. While both luxury and more affordable stores abound, the overhead tree-high skywalk, endless eateries and distinguished entertainment further lure visitors. With over 80 brands like Abercrombie & Fitch, Aesop, Anthropologie, Balenciaga, Banana Republic, Billabong, Burberry, Louboutin, Crazy Shirt, Footlocker, Hollister, Lids and Honolulu Cookie Company, the International Market Place is overflowing with world favourites. Experience events like the Royal Hawaiian Band every Thursday, free lei-making lessons, and Queens Waikiki Luau every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday. Don’t miss free yoga classes at Fabletics!

Luxury Row

Ready for bougie? Welcome to the Fifth Avenue of O’ahu. Shop Luxury Row for the finest collection of premium brands in the world: Chanel, Dior, Moncler, Saint Laurent, Bottega Veneta, Gucci, Tiffany & Co, Prada, Tom Ford and Miu Miu, just to name a few. Here, the experience is as luxe as the brands, with exclusive events and live music on regular rotation. Only steps from Waikiki Beach, Luxury Row beckons.

Ala Moana Center

Revolutionising the retail industry, Ala Moana Centre is anything but typical. For some shopaholics, Ala Moana is the single most common reason to visit O’ahu. Lined with swaying palms, the open-air oasis boasts a plethora of stores, entertainment and dining, with everything from surf gear to first-class boutiques and Italian designers. Catch daily events like hula shows, craft markets, music gigs and traditional dances, or take to the tropical bar for live Hawaiian tunes and refreshing cocktails.

Discover Hawaii’s captivating O’ahu with My Cruises. Talk to our Cruise Experts to learn more about our exclusive O’ahu packages. 

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