Oahu's North Shore is known for its treacherous waves

Surf spots on Oahu offer intriguing names that make you want to check out the scene, food trucks nearby and enough action to entice you to learn. Undoubtedly, the North Shore is the where the island’s visiting and local surfers dominate with captivating feats; however, throughout Oahu’s nearly 100 places to surf, all skill levels will find opportunities to learn, practice and excel. Alongside some of the world’s best surf spots, Oahu is known for numerous local food eateries, staggering natural beauty and several amenities among the beaches.

Oahu’s past is still present in its surf spots, which give travelers additional reason to visit, plus bragging rights of surfing where legends once played. Wave quality, tide position, type of reef and beach amenities vary but are important to know beforehand so you can plan your day itineraries. The right gear, a lesson or two if necessary, weather updates and a good-natured attitude will all secure a fulfilling and enjoyable experience as surfing is a water sport that takes patience, stamina and enthusiasm. If you have others traveling with you and spending time with you, look for beaches with great surf spots and picnic areas, shady spots, shower and restroom facilities, concessions and shallow wading areas for young ones. Additionally, avid surfers will want to plan staying in a vacation rental that is located within a cluster of surf spots so that each day is thrilling.

Pipeline is where travelers throughout the world visit to see and surf. Surfers excelling at their sport, preparing for thrilling competition and possibly even talking with aspiring surfers are reasons to visit. The reef surf break and Banzai Beach are features for which Pipeline is known. Sometimes called Pipe, it’s a challenging flat reef with caverns and hollow tubes. When the sand on the reef, the swells and the giant waves at each reef are grander and more powerful at each momentous turn.

Pipeline offers surfers hallow tubes over a shallow challenging reef

Pipeline Blue Wave House
This vacation rental is aptly named for proximity to the famed Pipeline. Extraordinary surfing, sounds of the beach and sights nearby make this vacation rental home a top choice among couples and families alike. Expansive windows, views of both mountain and sea landscapes and a relaxed vibe create the perfect visit for travelers seeking an exceptional home near some of the world’s best surf spots.

Tropical Beachfront with Studio
A beachfront home ideal for twelve guests or less. Spacious living and sleeping areas, six bathrooms, jetted tub in the bath and excellent entertainment at this vacation rental make staying indoors blissful, even with several guests. Beyond the semi-enclosed deck, a world of nature awaits so enjoy a hearty breakfast and head for the beach, just steps away. Plenty of water sports, including surfing, kayaking and more, plus golf, tennis and other outdoor activities are accessible here. Make your stay an adventure with surfing at nearby Pipeline. Challenging experiences surfing among the best at Pipeline make this home a haven after a strenuous and satisfying day of sun and surf.

Leftovers is known for multiple waves, from three to six foot, with a sloping left, including an inside shallow area, a reef ledge known as Nobu’s left. Check out the sea urchins inside the reef at low tide and plan to paddle out for a bit and enjoy days when the swells bring waves greater than seven feet. Nearby are Chuns and Alligator Rock.

Aqua Henalu with studio 
This vacation rental home offers five bedrooms, plentiful living areas, ocean views, great proximity to Haleiwa and its own sea turtle that nests nearby. Glorious afternoons await, seaside with cocktails or a tasty plate lunch followed by a shave ice with nothing better to do than watch experienced surfers at Leftovers riding hollow, powerful waves.

North Shore Hawaiian Dream Estate
A beach pad for surfers who like a little spoiling. The ocean and mountain views, the elaborately authentic beach hut look and the beach just under a minute walk away make this a royal vacation rental for anyone seeking a dream stay on the North Shore. An extended family of 10 or a group of avid surfers will find this an ideal stay for lots of surfing at Leftovers and other acclaimed surf spots on the North Shore.

Waimea Bay is calm during the summer and comes alive with huge waves during the winter

Waimea Bay is multiple surf spots, so a stay in this area guarantees powerful waves ranging from three to sixteen feet. It’s a right, point break that is a favorite among the pros, both local and global. Easy to find, the big waves are best with big boards and paddling is enough to tire the newer paddler. Watch the legends and participate if you’re interesting in a daring and exhilarating experience.

Waimea Point
Located within walking distance to multiple beaches, this is a classic beach house, with casual lifestyle in upscale living. Nearby Ted’s Bakery and all the conveniences nearby make it more appealing. Waimea Bay offers varying waves, from mountains of water to the Waimea Shorebreak, which is massive. Luxurious amenities include a gourmet kitchen, open beam ceilings and a flat-screen television.

Waimea Cottage
Surrounded by lush garden serenity and seclusion. It’s a cozy cove for families and in a location ideal for short walks to whatever you need—groceries, beach trips, coffee shops and away from congestion. Waimea, Three Tables Beach and other North Shore beaches are all nearby, making Waimea Cottage the place for surfing enthusiasts. Take lessons or watch the pros at play.

For more places to stay on your Oahu vacation, check out our selection of Oahu vacation rentals.

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The North Shore is as much a treasure trove in its art galleries as it is in the art of surfing

Taking a piece of the island home is important to some travelers. Keychains and shot glasses aren’t always special enough, even if they are functional gifts and fit nicely in your luggage. The North Shore is as much a treasure trove in its art galleries as it is in the art of surfing. Many of the vacation rentals display artwork from local artists so you may be inspired to take some home, or at least explore the scene, so plan a few hours for souvenir shopping while vacationing on Oahu’s North Shore.

Explore the North Shore’s artistic side from one of our North Shore vacation rentals.

Some of the art galleries host receptions for new exhibits and display a variety of local artists’ work and media. Photography, water color paintings and sculpture are found throughout Oahu. Talking with the artists about their inspiration, creating a custom piece or browsing the work and exploring the landscapes of the island enthrall visitors. Flowers, marine life and waterfalls are a few most commonly photographed and painted subjects. Some of the world’s most talented contemporary artists live in Oahu and you’ll find more than one on the North Shore. Seeing them at work, demonstrating and sharing their art makes your visit more than just a shopping excursion.

Find time between the beach excursions, surfing lessons to explore the North Shore’s artistic side

Art, jewelry, soap and handcrafted souvenirs are the most treasured for Oahu’s guests. Essential oils made from kukui nut oil and other cosmetics from the island are special gifts to take home. Soaps and scents from Oahu are made from local ingredients and you can even see soap making and tour the factory, depending on your level of interest. Find time between the beach excursions, surfing lessons and nature hikes to explore the North Shore’s artistic side, especially when you head home to your vacation rental armed with gifts to take back and share.

For more places to stay on Oahu’s North Shore, check out our Turtle Bay condos.

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The white sandy beaches of Oahu await your arrival

Commonly known as the gathering place of Hawaii, alluring Oahu is the third largest Hawaiian island and home of the City of Honolulu and infamous Waikiki. The white sandy beaches of Oahu beckon you and your friends to come experience the true Aloha of Hawaii.

Whether you want to go surfing, sunbathing or clubbing, awesome Oahu beach house rentals are an ideal place to stay while you experience the distinctive pleasures of Pacific paradise.

With 69 accessible beaches and 23 states parks, you and your friends will have plenty to do in scenic Oahu. Our local travel professionals can help you find the perfect Oahu beach house rental for your stay in Hawaii so you can be one of the 4.5 million people who enjoy visiting Oahu annually. Because the majority of our travel experts live and work in Hawaii, they have access to the best houses in Oahu for realistic prices. From outstanding accommodations to terrific travel arrangements to a rental car awaiting your arrival, our travel experts will help you plan the perfect Hawaiian vacation so all you need to do is have fun with your friends.

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Highly Recommended Reading for Anyone Visiting Honolulu

From its title alone, ALOHA Where You Like Go?, this Honolulu Travel Guide evokes a sense of what to expect from the book.

In a sea of books, e-books, travel guides, blogs and other sources of travel information pushing touristy tours and destinations, it has become increasingly difficult for travelers to find a vacation all their own. This novel, already a hit among locals, is an off-the-beaten-path guide to Honolulu.

ALOHA Where You Like Go? offers a genuine flavor of life on the island of Oahu beyond the commercialism, typical tourist traps and obvious landmarks, written by someone who has spent a considerable time on the island. It is often said that to find those neighborhood watering holes and to experience local flavor, you should seek advice from everyone from cabbies to the concierge. This book certainly aligns with that advice, written in a story format to illustrate an exhilarating adventure with interesting characters and facets of the island.

Guides that are timeless, providing an appreciation of an area without over-glamorizing each facet and allowing readers to take a journey from start to finish, are the ones true travelers seek and need. This book gives island guests a taste of everyday life, significant for temporary residents to help adapt and fit in like a local…which ultimately yields an enhanced travel experience.

We thoroughly enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone visiting Honolulu or Oahu.

Planning a Honolulu vacation? Stay nearby the city in one of our Kahala vacation rentals.

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Learn to surf in Waikiki

Hula and ukulele are Hawaiian cultural treasures and while water sports don’t quickly come to mind as culture, surfing on the islands, particularly Waikiki, is legendary. Destinations have one or multiple landmarks of things to see and do. Waikiki is notably special for the Waikiki Beachboys, the group of carefree men who had the good fortune of living in Oahu and surfing their days away on Waikiki’s powerful waves. The resorts began to build and a clientele emerged, and with impromptu surfing instructors already on-site, surfing resounded for both locals and visitors.

Planning a trip to Waikiki? Take a look at our nearby Diamond Head vacation rentals.

Today, surfing on Waikiki beaches is as significant for travelers as visiting Diamond Head, Ioalani Palace and the other major sights. The three-time Olympic gold champion surfer, Duke Kahanamoku, was one of the Waikiki Beachboys, most well known today. The reverence for his skill and unofficial ambassadorship of Waikiki surfing, today, you can visit the statue erected in his honor on Kuhio Beach, perhaps even draw some inspiration from it as you venture into the wild and welcoming waters.

Spend some time on the Waikiki beaches observing the experienced surfers

Also, take a look at our Kahala vacation rentals if you are looking to stay nearby the conveniences of Waikiki but not in the city.

Many of the major resorts in Waikiki offer surf lessons (sometimes free) and/or can arrange for lessons for you. You can learn in a group setting or solo and instructors teach a variety of ages and skill levels year-round, so you’ll enjoy the local experience. Etiquette, stance, type of boards, type of breaks (beach or reef), tide and wind directions, safety and aspects of how to manage the waves are all features of a good lesson. Do your research and ask around so that you find a business offering the surf lessons that will work best for you and your comfort level. Spend some time on the Waikiki beaches watching the skills of experienced surfers—it’s quite a show and even those who aren’t interested in more than just dabbling might take a turn.

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Kailua is known for its pristine beaches

Some of the most indulgent vacation rentals were once playgrounds and residences for ancient Hawaiian royalty. Today, a new type of royalty luxuriates in homes that make it difficult to explore beyond the grounds. Kailua, Oahu’s Ku’uipo Estate sleeps 14 comfortably throughout eight sleeping rooms, each with its own bathroom. The Zen-inspired home is a resort unto itself, complete with kayaks, pool toys for the children, two master bedrooms with full ocean views and a pool that mirrors back a sapphire blue sheen to the Kailua sky.

Reserve your stay at the Ku’uipo Estate.

Kailua is known for private luxury estates, fine shopping and sights, pristine beaches and plenty of upscale dining with excellent local fare. The quiet community allows you to keep to yourself as much as you want and the residents are pleasantly engaging when you’re exploring their lovely town with assets such as the Mokulua Islands, Kawainui Marshland, Mount Olomana and sacred ancient Hawaiian sites, to name only a few.

Over looking Kailua on the Windward side of Oahu

The Ku’uipo Estate is gated with fine furnishings and a full gourmet kitchen, to the delight of those seeking respite but don’t want to miss out on swimming at the pool or ocean and other island offerings. The private balcony, media room, living spaces that offer coziness and spacious lounging areas, plus a formal indoor and casual (shaded) outdoor space puts Ku’uipo Estate at the top of a traveler’s dream list for places to stay. Further, there’s no need to feel overwhelmed with a lengthy stay because the daily maid service offers light cleaning so you will find yourself with plenty of time to experience luxury throughout this home. Who knows. You may just spot a celebrity or presidential figure while in Kailua.

For more places to stay in Kailua, take a look at our large selection of Kailua luxury rentals.

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Escape to one of our Oahu luxury rentals

Kahala Estate is an ideal vacation rental for a group of family or friends seeking a luxury Oahu escape. Beautifully furnished, it’s an inviting upscale home. The home has two pools and vast garden spaces, plus an oceanview living room with full-length windows. Any time spent at Kahala Estate is going to be as entertaining as time on the island.

Lanikai Ocean View is a vacation rental for someone seeking privacy, luxury and incredible views of Lanikai bay, the Mokulua Islands and Makapuu Point. The home is gated, ensuring safety. The infinity pool is one of the places you’ll congregate and the beach is literally 101 steps away.

For more places to stay in Lanikai, check out all of our Lanikai luxury rentals.

Relax on Lanikai beach

Maunalua Bay is a vacation rental that serves as your own luxury hideaway. The pool (complete with lava rock shower) overlooks Maunalua Bay and the patio is a sanctuary in itself, with a lovely wrought iron gate and shaded area to relax with a glass of wine. The gourmet kitchen, spacious living areas and sumptuous rooms are additional reasons to select this vacation rental in south east Oahu.

Plantation Estate, with its ocean view, paces away, grand living and sleeping areas, is a lovely luxury home in Kailua, Oahu. Sip wine and enjoy tapas on the shaded outdoor patio that overlooks the unique lagoon-style pool, which is surrounded by a calming waterfall and garden setting. Spacious bedrooms and gourmet kitchen plus media room make this a place to unwind after a day at the beach.

Also, please consider some of our other Kailua luxury rentals.

Overlook the city of Honolulu from the Castle on the Hawaiian Hill

Castle on the Hawaiian Hill is a surreal home aptly named a castle as it overlooks the island of Oahu. Luxury emanates from every corner of this three-story vacation rental. The views of Honolulu from the main deck, living room and master bath all guarantee captivating images of the city. Castle on the Hawaiian Hill provides complete privacy, gorgeous sunsets, and the ultimate indulgence in vacationing.

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Enjoy a coastal walk on one of Oahu gorgeous sandy beaches

Visitors to Oahu can easily fill their days with scenic hikes on the island’s 112 miles of shoreline. Key facets of the best coastal walks include remote spots, native birds occasionally flying overhead, colorful sunsets, sea cliffs, a place to picnic, a sea turtle or two and gorgeous sandy beach alongside the sea.

Planning a trip to Oahu? Take a look at our Kailua vacation rentals.

Mokuleia Beach Park, west of Wailua, has a lot of character to match its wildly rugged and remote coastline. Near Kaena Point, the westernmost point on Oahu, you’ll enjoy this serene walk on white sand with calm waters in the summer. Avid LOST fans will find this beach fascinating as they notice nearby Dillingham Airfield, mountains and vegetation that served as the scene of the dramatic plane crash.

Just east of Waikiki you will find Diamond Head

Diamond Head Beach Park, one of the greatest landmarks of Oahu and Hawaii, offers a legendary coastal walk on the east side of Waikiki. From the sea cliffs to the tide pools in this area and the Diamond Head Lighthouse in the distance, the walk on the golden sand makes this another terrific coastal walk. Quiet waves lap against the shore, so grab your flip flops and loved one for a little jaunt.

Stay near Diamond Head in one of our Kahala vacation rentals.

Kailua Beach Park is known for perfection, with its gentle sand, clear blue waters and grand palms that provide shade when you need it. Watch windsurfers and taste shave ice as you stroll with a view of the Mokapu Peninsula and Flat Island. Located on east Oahu, this beach park has full facilities including picnic areas, lifeguards, showers, etc.

Halona Beach Cove is a lovely scenic area sheltered by sea cliffs on southeast Oahu. The shoreline is rocky and provides a dramatic and challenging coastal walk to get to it but once there, you can stroll and if the water is calm, go for a swim afterward. The cove is next to the Halona Blowhole overlook and you can fish at nearby Bamboo Ridge.

Hanauma Bay is one of the best beaches on southeastern Oahu to explore

Hanauma Bay is a protected marine life conservation area, another cove, that is acclaimed worldwide as one of the best beaches on southeastern Oahu. The curved coastline is beautifully scenic, with warm golden sand but and the colors of more than 450 tropical fish. The road you walk (or the bus service) to the beach offers a great coastal view—the perfect snapshot encompassing the complete picture below of sand, surf, wildlife and warm rays shining down on the sparkling sea and sealife.

Also, check out our Lanikai vacation rentals for your stay on Oahu.

As always, practice caution when taking a coastal walk on Oahu. Wear good shoes, keep in mind that some of the beaches have no lifeguards or facilities, keep the minimum distance from sea turtles and bring essentials along as you deem necessary.

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Ala Moana can be found in the busy city of Honolulu on the island of Oahu

Ala Moana could easily be dismissed as a major shopping complex with almost 300 stores, of which almost 70 are eateries. Ala Moana is an upscale center with plenty of shopping, offering both local and global brands, and a variety of dining options with cuisines for any taste. The multicultural festivities, fashion events, shopping exclusives and some nifty features make Ala Moana an attraction as much as an outdoor shopping center.

Looking to stay near Ala Moana but not in the busy city? Check out our nearby Kahala vacation rentals.

The scenic views from Ala Moana include the Ko’olau mountains and the natural, open-air atmosphere makes it a place worthy of exploration for the native flora on the grounds. Native plants line the paths, including the tī leaf, which was used for hula skirts, sandals and thatching for houses years ago. You’ll also find taro and kukui (kukui nuts are often found in leis). If you’re interested in tropical flora and fauna, you’ll find a good deal to explore at Ala Moana.

Ala Moana is an upscale center with plenty of shopping, offering both local and global brands

The Tsukiji Fish Market and Restaurant offers an island version of the world-famous Tsukiji Fish Market in Tokyo. Visitors will enjoy sushi, sashimi, teppanyaki, and traditional Japanese, Chinese, Hawaiian, and Korean dishes. If you’re further interested in fish, beyond the food, walk the promenades and walkways and find the koi ponds at Ala Moana.

For more places to stay near Ala Moana, take a look at our Diamond Head vacation rentals.

Made in Hawaii items are available at Ala Moana as well; with furniture made of koa wood, handmade quilts and handcrafted jewelry. Live entertainment brings culture to life on the stage at the center. Designer brands and native Hawaiian products are all found at the shopping center, which help broaden its appeal for the savvy shopper. Celebrity visits, shopping discounts and deals and ongoing events make it worth the visit while in Oahu.

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Oahu has many romantic spots for you to enjoy

Idyllic tropical paradise and happy honeymooners are likely first thoughts of what to expect of Hawaii, so finding top romantic spots seems almost impossible. Romance is evident in the sunset strolls, moonlit dinners and views from grand heights.

Planning a romantic Oahu vacation? Check our our Lanikai vacation rentals.

Manoa Falls is one of a number of Oahu waterfalls that stands out as a place for romance. Lovers can hike through Oahu’s diverse landscapes, including rainforest and bamboo forest amidst the Ko’oaus Mountains. The waterfall punctuates the day with an incredible 150 feet of cascading waters. Swimming in the pool at the bottom is not permitted.

Take that special someone to this romantic lookout

Getting swept away by love is one thing, but the Nuuanu Pali Lookout will take your breath away with the occasional winds flowing through the site. See Oahu atop its Windward Side, overlooking the wildly romantic cliffs of the Koolau Mountain Range. Here, you can proclaim your love to each other and for the world below.

Take a look at our Kailua vacation rentals on Oahu’s Windward Side.

A sensual couples’ massage on Gray’s Beach, side by side, with no need for words but harmonious motions that keeps you in sync is further topped with a champagne finish. The light sea breeze soothing essential oil in Oahu’s warm weather is certain to lull you and your loved one into a blissful state for the rest of the day.

Are you looking to stay near the city of Honolulu but not in it? Take a look at our Kahala vacation rentals.

See some of Hawaii’s native plants

Lili’uokalani Botanical Garden is the perfect spot for a picnic and proposal. Enjoy a light lunch in the once royal spot owned by Queen Liliuokalani. The native plants, Nu’uanu Stream and the Waikahalulu Waterfall surround you in a romantic spot of your very own for the afternoon.

Take a sunset, or moonlight, stroll on Oahu’s North Shore after a romantic dinner at Turtle Bay. Dramatic sunsets at dusk and magical stargazing at night are both memorable ways to begin, or continue, a fantastic romantic experience on Oahu.

Take a stroll on Oahu’s North Shore beaches from one of our North Shore vacation rental.

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