The pacific gem of Oahu is the most popular destination for travelers in Hawaii. Home to the capital Honolulu and world-class attractions like Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head, and the historical memorial of Pearl Habour, the list of things to do and see on the island is a damn good one.
The choice to travel to Oahu isn’t hard, but often choosing a place to stay can be a bit tricky. There are a lot of options!
Thankfully, gone are the days of having to choose between a crowded hostel and an overpriced hotel. It’s 2021, my dudes – private rentals are the way to go. Booking through Airbnb makes it easy to find the kind of place you want by using the filters to find properties that suit your preference and budget.
We’ve made it even easier for you with our list of the top 15 Airbnbs in Oahu.
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Quick Answer: These are the Top 4 Airbnbs in Oahu
Surfer’s Dream, Velzyland
- > $
- > 5 guests
- > Comfortable and homey style
- > Located in a residential neighbourhood
Small Quaint Private Room
- > $
- > 2 People
- > Desk in room
- > Budget-friendly
Plantation at Paradise Point
- > $$$$
- > 10 Guests
- > Lagoon pool with waterfall
- > Holiday destination of the stars
Spacious Sunrise Private Room
- > $
- > 2 guests
- > Inviting common spaces
- > Close to Waikiki attractions
What to Expect From Airbnbs in Oahu
There’s a huge range of Airbnbs in Oahu from humble private rooms and surf shacks, to luxurious villas. While the specifics vary from place to place, you can expect to have a kitchen, an outdoor place to enjoy fresh air, and either AC or a fan.
Things on the island are pretty spread out, and many Airbnbs are best accessed by car. It’s not essential, but having your own set of wheels makes it easier for you to get around and see the best of the Island. Make sure you book in advance – it’s not uncommon for cars to be booked out on the island!
It’s common courtesy in Hawaii to take your shoes off when you enter a home, and many Oahu Airbnbs request that you do it during your stay. Kick back, put your barefeet up and feel at home in paradise.
Top 15 Airbnbs in Oahu
We’ve made finding the best Airbnb for you easy with our selection of 15 top properties. From casual homes to outstanding luxury, there’s something for everyone.
Surfer’s Dream, Velzyland | Overall Best Value Airbnb
The North Shore of Oahu is known for surf. If you’re visiting the island to hit the waves and enjoy the beach, this Airbnb is a great shout. It’s across from an amazing beach with a surf break, and super close to other epic spots for enjoying the water.
The house sleeps four – although there’s a big L-shaped couch in the living room where two extras can crash. The living spaces are bright and open, and there’s a large balcony overlooking the garden where you can sit back with your friends with a few cold beers to debrief your day.
The home is in a chill, residential neighborhood close to Waimea Bay, Sunset Beach, Pipeline, and Shark’s Cove. It’s a perfect choice for a group of mates or family who are traveling to Oahu to enjoy the ocean.
Small, Quaint Private Room | Best Budget Airbnb in Oahu
This Oahu Airbnb is away from the hustle and bustle of Honolulu, in a peaceful neighbourhood lined with flowers and trees. You’ll get a soundtrack of chatty tropical birds and jungle sounds.
The room is simple and cozy. You’ll have your own privacy for the best budget price in Oahu. There’s a desk in the room which is a handy bonus if you needed to get some work done during your trip. Each room of this home is rented out to Airbnb guests, with access to a shared kitchen, bathroom, living room, and garden.
You can reach Honolulu by bus, though it’s not the most reliable way to get to the Kalihi Valley. If you have room in your budget a car is probably the way to go.
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View on Osprey View on REIPlantation at Paradise Point | Over-the-Top Luxury Airbnb in Oahu
If you and your nine besties have some cash to burn and fancy holidaying like the Obamas, we’ve found your spot.
The villa has an enormous lanai with panoramic views of the Kailua coast. It’s just off the beach, so you can enjoy your own stretch of calm Hawaiian waters. The property is an oasis in itself. In the courtyard, there’s a lagoon pool with a waterfall, an island spa, and a cabana surrounded by lush tropical vegetation.
Inside has five bedrooms, each with en-suite and walk-in closets, plus various lavish living spaces. Oh, how the other half lives!
This Oahu Airbnb is seriously fancy. The Obamas loved it, and we bet you will too if you’re prepared/able to dig deep for the experience.
Spacious Sunrise Private Room | Perfect Oahu Airbnb for Solo Travelers
This private room in Kaimuki is a top choice for solo travelers in Oahu. The home has a relaxed and cozy energy with bright colors, surfy decor, and open, breezy windows.
The room has a king-sized bed (plus sofa bed) with AC for those hot Hawaiian days. There is access to a kitchen, bathroom, and common living spaces, including a leafy green backyard these spaces are shared with other Airbnb guests.
It’s close to the action of Waikiki city but tucked away in a quiet neighborhood. You can cruise into the heart of Waikiki and all its attractions within 10 minutes in a car or bike, or walk into the center within 30 minutes.
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Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Airbnbs in Oahu
Here are a few more of my favorite Airbnbs in Oahu!
Home Is Where You Park It | Most Unique Airbnb in Oahu
The beaches and majestic nature are the main reasons people visit Hawaii, right? This unique Oahu Airbnb combines accommodation and transport. In this van, you can spend every night with ocean views or parked on top of a lush mountain landscape.
An epic eco-friendly van, this Airbnb has more features than many full homes. It’s solar-powered, has a two-burner stove kitchen, large fridge, and a fan. There’s a full-sized bed and hot shower too, so you won’t exactly be roughing it. You’ll be able to catch a sunset every evening in your rolling home.
Oceanfront Cottage | Best Airbnb in Oahu for Families
This oceanfront beach house in Oahu is a great Airbnb for families looking for a relaxing beach getaway.
It’s on a gated property in a quiet neighborhood, where you can be lulled to sleep by the sounds of the waves crashing just outside your door.
There’s plenty of space to play in the backyard which extends to the ocean. Studded with coconut trees, there’s even a hammock for ultimate relaxation. On one side you’ve got views of the ocean, and behind the house, there’s a dramatic mountain view. It’s a magical setting where you can create some memorable moments with your favorite people.
The cottage has sleeping space for four in the two bedrooms, although you can sleep up to seven in the home if you want to invite the whole crew on your beach trip. Inside is spacious and cozy, and there’s AC for when you want to cool off indoors.
It has everything you need for a comfortable and, most importantly, fun getaway in Oahu.
New York-Style Loft in Downtown | Awesome Oahu Airbnb in Central Honolulu
If you want an urban getaway in the heart of Honolulu downtown, check out this loft.
The space is open plan, with the bedrooms and bathroom overlooking the living room, dining room, and patio below. The views from the balcony are some of the best in town. This place is giving serious bachelor/bachelorette pad vibes, but you can invite six of your mates to join the fun.
The building has a sweet rooftop pool when you want a dip, although you’re just 1.8 miles to Waikiki Beach for when you want to embrace this iconic spot.
You’re in the thick of the action for all things to do downtown, including the trendy bars of Chinatown, cute cafes, and restaurants.
Loft-Style Home Near the Beach | Best Airbnb in Oahu for a Surf Trip
This loft-style home on the North Shore is an amazing choice for a group of friends keen on a Hawaiian surf getaway. The space is open plan with two queen-sized beds upstairs, so you and your friends can enjoy sleepover vibes on your trip. While there are beds for four people in the loft, you can comfortably fit an extra two people on the futon in the living room.
This part of the North Shore is renowned as a top location for surfing, diving, fishing, and of course, absolutely divine beaches. You and your mates need not jump in the car while you’re here.
Luxury Ocean-Front Condo at Turtle Beach | Most Romantic Airbnb for Couples
This stunning Oahu Airbnb is tucked away on Lahilahi beach. Also known as turtle beach, and as the name suggests, there are a lot of them hanging out here!
If you’re traveling for romance and relaxation, you can escape the crowds of busier parts of the island and have a truly relaxing stay in paradise.
The balcony with an ocean view is a huge standout of this home. It’s the perfect spot for watching the Hawaiian sunset with your loved one. You’ve got a great vantage point to see the turtles on the beach below, and dolphins and whales have been known to swing by this spot too.
Inside the home is brightly lit and luxurious. There’s a recently renovated kitchen, open living space, and a comfy, queen-sized bed. With the beach on your doorstep, you’ll be able to snorkel, boogie board and surf right out the front of the apartment. The condo has a pool, Jacuzzi, BBQ, and tennis courts for all guests to enjoy.
Downtown Condo Near the Party | Best Airbnb in Oahu Near Nightlife
This three-bedroom Oahu Airbnb is located in the downtown area, only a few blocks away from the best places to party. If you’re traveling with a group of mates, there’s plenty of space for six people across the bedrooms.
Located in the downtown area, the beach, restaurants, supermarkets, and other essentials are super close by. The condo has an epic pool and Jacuzzi for you to lounge by and recover the next day. If you want to continue the party in the building, there’s even a karaoke bar in the building.
Penthouse with Panoramic Views | Best Airbnb in Waikiki
Waikiki is one of the most famous beaches in the world, and for good reason. If you’re planning on staying in Waikiki, this penthouse will give you a luxurious place to chill when you’re not soaking up the vibes of the iconic beach. You’re close to all the things to do in Waikiki, and only 10 minutes’ walk from the beach and other top spots.
Depending on what room you’re in, you have million-dollar views out over Diamond Head, the mountain ranges, or the Pacific Ocean. The place has large, wide windows in every room and two spacious bedrooms with comfy queen-sized beds. Guests have access to a pool, Jacuzzi, and gym in the building.
Lanakila Cove | Best Private Room in Oahu
This is a private room in a family home in Hauula. In a calm part of the island away from the tourist hubs, you’ll have the chance to connect to the local lifestyle. Multiple rooms in this Oahu Airbnb are rented out to travelers, so there’s an opportunity to connect with locals and travelers others while exploring.
The room is a cozy space with AC and a large window that peeks into the garden. It has a double bed and a second double can be set up if you’d like to share the space between four. There’s joint access to the kitchen, bathroom, living spaces, and backyard with your local hosts and the other guests. The beach is literally 20 feet from the edge of the property, and the whole place has stunning views.
Unique Treehouse Nestled in the Forest | Amazing Oahu Airbnb for Groups
This amazing Oahu Airbnb is a spacious forest home that will connect you and your group to the magic of Oahu’s nature. The home is spread over three levels and connected by a bridge, giving the feeling that you’re floating above a canopy of trees.
Little details have really been considered in the design of this home – from its eco-materials and solar water heating, luxurious linens, and special seating areas to admiring bird activity and mountain views.
There are spacious living spaces for your group to hang out together. The home sleeps nine guests, and when you consider the cost of this place per guest, it’s actually one of the cheapest, and definitely one of the most incredible, places to stay.
The unique design of this space and eco practices makes it a great Hawaii eco-lodge.
Garden Studio in Honolulu | Best One Bedroom Unit in Oahu
This garden unit is tucked away among mango trees and tropical plants.
The space is a cozy and fully equipped unit with AC for those hot days, garden views from the kitchen, and plenty of space to unpack your things.
The leafy backyard is a stunning space to relax in the hammock, and is a popular choice for native birds who love playing in the fruit trees. It’s a quiet and peaceful space but still located in the heart of Honolulu.
You’re not far from downtown Honolulu from here. The Honolulu Museum of Art is only blocks away! This is a solid Oahu Airbnb for one or two people who want a homely space to call home on their trip to Honolulu.
Beachfront Plantation Cottage | Great Short-Term Rental in Oahu
If you want to have a long stay and soak up the local life in Oahu, this Kailua beachfront home is an excellent option. The neighborhood is a tranquil place popular for its stunning white sand beaches, kite surfing, windsurfing, and bike riding.
It will provide the ideal set-up for a wholesome time on the island. Inside the home has a bright and homely feel. There are three bedrooms, a cosy living room and a well equipped kitchen.
The backyard is a gorgeous place to relax and unwind after a day by the ocean. There’s an outdoor BBQ and sun loungers.. The house is is steps away from one of the most beautiful beaches in Hawaii. The ideal place for short term rental in Oahu.
What To Pack For Oahu
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for an Airbnb stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Don’t Forget Your Oahu Travel Insurance
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Airbnbs in Oahu
Hopefully, this article has given some insight into the different types of Airbnbs in Oahu. Whether you’re planning a surf escape in a local town or a party trip in downtown Honolulu, there are lots of different options to suit your budget and travel style.
If you’re considering how you will fill your days, don’t forget to check out the Airbnb experiences on offer in Oahu. We picked out these tips from a huge list of Airbnb Experiences on offer because they are highly rated by guests and provide a unique and authentic insight into what makes Oahu special.
While you’re sorting your travel plans out for getting to Oahu, don’t forget to organize travel insurance. Organizing these things is definitely the most boring and tedious part of having the travel bug, but if you get caught in a pickle, you will seriously thank your past self. No one wants to be caught in trouble, even when they are in a paradise like Oahu!
- Use our Where to Stay in Oahu guide to plan your adventure.
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