Ultimate Oahu Honeymoon Guide
Oahu is home to Honolulu and the legendary Waikiki Beach! Let’s help you plan your honeymoon in Hawaii with our deep dive into an Oahu honeymoon…
Planning an Oahu honeymoon, or, what some might call a Honolulu honeymoon!?
Oahu has been luring couples to Hawaii for a honeymoon since its first heydays of the 1960s (although tourism started in the 19th century).
The call of the stunning beaches, lush landscapes and e komo mai (welcome) have long been irresistible.
Wondering about the best time to visit Oahu for honeymoon? What area to stay? Need the lowdown on the best Oahu honeymoon resorts? The best boutique honeymoon hotels in Waikiki? How to get there and how to get around? We’ve got you covered.
Read on to catch the aloha vibes with our Ultimate Oahu Honeymoon Guide.
We use affiliate links on our platform. If you click and book or buy through them, we may earn a small commission – at no extra cost to you. This helps keep the lights on at Honeymoon HQ! Rest assured, our recommendations are impartial and independent; we only suggest what we love and think you’ll love too! See our full disclaimer on our policies page.
Best Time to Visit Oahu
Oahu has a tropical climate making it warm and pleasant year-round. You will see more rain from November to March however, less than half the days of the month see some showers. Temperatures average 23°C / 74°F.
December to March is a busy time as Americans try to escape the colder climates. Prices peak over Thanksgiving and the holiday season of Christmas / New Year.
Prices then peak again from late June to August as schools are out.
Temperatures increase over the summer months averaging around 29°C / 82°F.
Hawaii doesn’t experience hurricanes but cyclones and tropical storms can occur from June to November.
The best time to visit Oahu for a honeymoon is from April to early June and from September to October where you hit the sweet spot between fewer crowds and minimal rainfall.
Where to stay in Oahu for honeymoon
Oahu is just 71 km long and 48 km wide and you can drive from north to south in just over an hour so you’re never too far away from things! It is the 3rd largest island in Hawaii.
Waikiki Beach, is a neighbourhood of the capital Honolulu. Honolulu is one the most popular areas to stay, and for a good reason.
It offers a perfect blend of city life and beach paradise, making it an ideal location for your Oahu honeymoon.
Honolulu is home to world-class restaurants, high-end shopping, galleries, museums and a myriad of fun things to do.
Waikiki Beach is just one of six beaches in the district, along with Queen’s, Kuhio, Gray’s, Fort DeRussy and Kahanamoku Beach.
There is a lovely array of honeymoon hotels in Honolulu.
If you’re looking for a more laid-back vibe, the North Shore is the perfect choice. Known for its stunning beaches, lush greenery and surfing. Haleiwa is a charming surf town in the area.
There aren’t as many accommodation choices as Waikiki, though.
Best Honeymoon Resorts in Oahu
If you are planning your Oahu honeymoon, you want to make sure you stay in one of the best honeymoon hotels and honeymoon resorts in Oahu!
It’s worth noting that all-inclusive is not really a thing in Hawaii. Also check for ‘resort fees’ when you’re booking.
These are a fee added on a check-in which can add up to a couple of hundred dollars over the course of a week.
Oahu and particularly, Waikiki Beach has a great choice of places to stay on your Oahu honeymoon. From modern boutiques popping up to traditional big hotel brands – you’ll find many honeymoon hotels in Honolulu.
Let’s introduce you to some of the top honeymoon hotels and honeymoon resorts in Oahu.
The Surfjack Hotel
Perfect for a Waikiki honeymoon stay, The Surfjack Hotel is one of our top picks for stylish and cool honeymoon hotels in Oahu.
This boutique bolthole offers a unique and authentic Hawaiian experience. The hotel features a beautiful pool / swim club.
The rooms are spacious and comfortable with a private balcony or a patio. You’re less than 10 minutes walk or 5 minute bike ride from Waikiki Beach.
🤍 ✈️
Check prices and book on:
The Laylow, Autograph Collection
The Laylow brings its stylish 1960s Hawaii vibe to Waikiki Beach and it’s one of our favourite boutique honeymoon hotels in Oahu for a Waikiki honeymoon.
Just a block away from the famed beach, the rooms are bright, some even have their own lanai (balcony/terrace). We love the Cabana Suites which open onto the pool.
🤍 ✈️
Check prices and book on:
Hotel Renew
Mid century vibes meet tropical Hawaiian ocean views at Hotel Renew just off Waikiki beach.
This is one of the best boutique honeymoon hotels in Oahu for the views and location. Skip the standard rooms and opt for an Ocean view with a balcony.
🤍 ✈️
Check prices and book on:
Vive Hotel
Vive Hotel is ideal for couples seeking a modern Waikiki honeymoon hotel, just a few blocks from the beach.
Lively Kalakaua Avenue is just one street away with its incredible shopping, dining, and entertainment.
The rooms are fun and bright. Opt for the Musician Suite for a real 60s vibe.
🤍 ✈️
Check prices and book on:
The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort
The Royal Hawaiian, also known as the “Pink Palace of the Pacific,” is a historic and iconic hotel located right on Waikiki Beach.
Opened in 1927 the hotel has sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. The hotel features two beautiful pools and you can hire a private beach chaise lounge and umbrella set for that perfect pink insta-worthy moment.
The rooms are more classic in style at The Royal Hawaiian so it’s ideal for couples looking for a traditional Hawaii vibe on a Waikiki honeymoon.
🤍 ✈️
Check prices and book on:
Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa
Moana Surfrider, originally ‘The Moana’, is another classic when it comes to honeymoon resorts in Oahu. Ideal for a Waikiki honeymoon, it was originally built in 1901, the first ever hotel on Waikiki Beach.
The hotel has three wings to choose from, the original Historic Banyan Wing, the Tower Wing and our top pick, the Diamond Wing. Book a Diamond Ocean Front room with spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean and Diamond Head.
🤍 ✈️
Check prices and book on:
Halekulani Hotel
Halekulani Hotel is one of the more traditional Oahu honeymoon hotels. For couples seeking a Waikiki honeymoon, the beach front location is unbeatable.
The rooms are comfortable. Opt for a Diamond Head Suite located on the top five floors of the hotel with panoramic views of iconic Diamond Head, Waikiki Beach and the Pacific Ocean.
🤍 ✈️
Check prices and book on:
Four Seasons Oahu at Ko Olina
On the wild and rugged west coast of Oahu, The Four Seasons Oahu at Ko Olina is a classic option around 30 minutes north of Honolulu.
This is for couples looking for honeymoon hotels in Oahu that want to be away from the hustle and bustle in a traditional setting. If you’re not travelling on a budget, the Pacific Suite has its own plunge pool on the lanai.
🤍 ✈️
Check prices and book on:
Turtle Bay Resort
Tucked away in the North Shore, Turtle Bay Resort is the ideal antithesis to the bustling vibes of a honeymoon in Honolulu.
The interiors are modern and bright. If you can, upgrade to an Ocean Bungalow, which have a dedicated private adults only pool.
You’re adjacent to five miles of pristine beaches, secluded coves, and legendary surf spots.
🤍 ✈️
Check prices and book on:
Best Things to do in Oahu on Honeymoon
For couples planning an Oahu honeymoon, you’re in for a treat. There are so many fun, romantic and adventurous things to do in Oahu on honeymoon. Read on for our round-up.
Take a sunset cruise
Experience the magic of a Hawaiian sunset on a romantic sunset cruise. Enjoy the stunning views while sipping on a glass of champagne.
If budget allows opt for a private charter for the ultimate in romance!
Visit Pearl Harbour
For history buffs, a visit to Pearl Harbour is an essential addition to your things to do in Oahu on honeymoon list.
Take a guided tour of the USS Arizona Memorial and learn about the events that led to the attack on Pearl Harbour in WW2.
You can also take a flight on a vintage warbird for a true Pearl Harbour movie moment.
Go snorkelling & diving
One of our top picks for things to do on an Oahu honeymoon is to discover the underwater world of the Pacific Ocean.
Hawaii is home to some of the best snorkelling and diving spots in the world. You can explore the colourful coral reefs and swim with tropical fish. You might even spot some turtles and dolphins.
You can learn to dive, too. Some of the popular snorkelling and diving spots include Hanauma Bay, Sharks Cove and the Sea Tiger Shipwreck.
Experience a Luau
No trip to Hawaii is complete without experiencing a traditional luau and it’s a must add on to your things to do in Oahu on honeymoon list.
You can enjoy a delicious feast of local cuisine like Kalua Pig, Poi and Lomi Salmon. while watching hula dancers and fire knife performers.
Try surfing (or watch the pros!)
Surfing is an ancient art, and in Hawaii it was called heʻe nalu (wave sliding).
Taking a surfing lesson with a local instructor and experiencing the thrill of riding the waves is one of our top picks for things to do on an Oahu honeymoon.
The North Shore is one of the best places to watch the pros, particular during winter. One of the deadliest waves in the world, the Banzai Pipeline is along the North Shore.
Get your hiking boots on
Oahu is truly a hikers paradise with many trails for explorers.
One of the top things to do on an Oahu honeymoon is to hike to the top of Diamond Head for panoramic views of the island.
The island is full of places to explore. Try the Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail and the lush rainforests that surround Manoa Falls. Oahu is home to some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world.
Explore Makiki Valley and Koko Head Crater Trail. For leisurely trails stop by Hoomaluhia Botanical Gardens.
Relax on the beaches
Oahu is home to some of the most beautiful coastlines in the world. You can relax on the stunning beaches and swim in the crystal-clear waters.
Waikiki Beach is one of the best city beaches in the world but don’t miss the powdery sands of Lanikai Beach and Kailua Beach.
Visit Kualoa Ranch
For movie buffs, a visit to Kualoa Ranch is a must add on to your things to do in Oahu on honeymoon.
You can take a guided tour of the movie sets used in films such as Jurassic Park and Godzilla. It’s a unique experience that you won’t find anywhere else.
Get your adventure on
If you’re looking for a thrill, there’s zip lining and ATV tours widely available. Soar through the treetops or across bumpy terrain, and enjoy the stunning views of the island.
Helicopter Tour
Get a unique perspective of Oahu on a helicopter tour. Marvel at the stunning views of the island from above from the rainforest, mountains and famous landmarks like Pearl Harbour and Diamond Head.
Water Sports
Yes there is surfing but on the east side of the island, in Kailua you’ll find calmer waters ideal for kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding. Or maybe parasailing on Waikiki?
Whatever your jam, you’ll find it! So if you’re a couple looking to add water sports to your things to do in Oahu on honeymoon – you won’t be disappointed.
Whale Watching
One of our top picks for things to do in Oahu on honeymoon is to go on whale watching excursion. Watch these majestic creatures frolic in the Pacific Ocean on a boat tour.
The best time to see whales is from December to April.
Museums & Galleries
Honolulu is home to a variety of museums and galleries that showcase the island’s rich culture and history.
Purchase a Go City pass to visit the Honolulu Museum of Art or the Bishop Museum to learn more about the island’s past. Discover the most innovative street art in the Kakaako art district.
Shopping
If you’re looking to do some shopping on your Oahu honeymoon, you’ll be in retail heaven.
You can visit the Ala Moana Center, which is the largest open-air shopping centre in the world with stores like Bloomingdales, or explore the Waikele Premium Outlets.
You’ll find plenty of cute independent boutiques and shops around too. If you want to pick up souvenirs look out for Hawaiian prints, Kona coffee, ukuleles and macadamia nut products.
Eat (and drink) everything
Oahu is a foodie honeymoon paradise where many gastronomic delights await! The island is a melting pot of cultures, with a mix of Asian, Pacific and North American influences.
Surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, Oahu’s seafood is as fresh as it gets. Poke, a Hawaiian staple which is now famous worldwide is made of diced raw fish seasoned with soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions. Or try grilled Mahi-Mahi, a local fish, often served with a side of rice and tropical salsa.
Oahu’s food scene is heavily influenced by its Asian population. Whether its sushi and ramen from Japan, Korean BBQ or Chinese dim sum, you’ll find it here.
The perfect sweet treat for the Hawaiian climate is Shaved Ice. Shave Ice is a mound of finely shaved ice topped with various flavoured syrups. Often, local fruits like coconut, pineapple, or mango are added for an extra tropical twist.
Hawaii is also famous for its coffee and food trucks and roadside stalls offer everything from snacks to juices.
Some of our favourite spots include Koko Head Cafe for casual bites and Juicy Brew for decent coffee and delicious bites.
Try Vietnamese-inspired The Pig and the Lady, Mahina and Sun’s for Hawaiian soul food. Try The Surfing Pig Hawaii for dinner.
Looking for great views – try Tiki’s Grill & Bar. Although not near Waikiki, if you want to try authentic Hawaiian food, Highway Inn Kaka’ako and Helena’s is a must. Moku Kitchen is a must for modern Hawaii.
You can find gastrobar vibes at Waikiki Brewing Company. Have drinks in Talk Kaimuki and the speakeasy style Blind Ox or Bar Leather Apron.
Good to know about Oahu
Time Zone: GMT -11
Language: Hawaiian & English
Capital: Honolulu
Population: 900,000
Currency: US Dollar US$
A few phrases:
Hi: Aloha
Please: Ke ‘olu’olu
Thank you: Mahalo
Goodbye: A hui hou
Oahu Honeymoon Frequently Asked Questions
Is Oahu good for a honeymoon?
Absolutely! Oahu is a legendary honeymoon destination.
It offers a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and romance with stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and unique Hawaiian culture that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
However, it is on the pricier side, particularly compared to some Caribbean destinations like the Dominican Republic and Jamaica or the honeymoon destinations in Mexico.
Additionally, the choice of luxury accommodations is more limited.
How long should we stay in Oahu for our honeymoon?
The duration of a honeymoon in Oahu will depend on several factors, including your available time, budget, and the type of experience you’re looking to have.
When planning your Oahu honeymoon itinerary, remember that 2 nights will only give you 1 full day to explore/relax, 3 nights = 2 full days, 4 nights = 3 full days, and so on.
Make sure you plan some chilled-out beach days along with days to explore.
We’d recommend at least 4 nights if you’re then adding on other Hawaiian islands. You’ll get to see some highlights and have a beach day, too.
How do we get to Oahu?
Oahu is the easiest Hawaiian island to get to as many airlines offer direct flights from most major US and Canadian cities to Honolulu International Airport (airport code: HNL).
Hawaiian Airlines flies from the other Hawaiian islands and also internationally, to/from Tokyo (NRT) and Osaka (KIX) in Japan, Seoul (ICN) in Korea, Sydney and Melbourne in Australia, Auckland (AKL) in New Zealand, and South Pacific nations like French Polynesia (PPT).
Once you arrive, you can rent a car, take a taxi or Uber, or book a transfer to get to your hotel with a cute lei (flower garland) greeting.
Do we need a passport and/or visa to enter Hawaii?
Most nationalities need either a visa or an ESTA (visa waiver) to enter the USA. Apply via iVisa.com.
United States citizens can enter and depart the state using their state-issued driver’s licence or identity card.
Do we need travel vaccinations for Oahu?
Hawaii is a malaria-free and Zika-free state. Some travel vaccinations may be needed.
We encourage you to visit the Center for Disease Control website for up-to-date travel vaccination recommendations or speak to a registered medical practitioner.
How do we get around Oahu?
There are multiple ways to explore on a honeymoon in Oahu.
Renting a car for a few days will allow you to explore Oahu at your own pace.
You can visit more remote spots, scenic lookouts, and arrive at popular spots early to avoid tourist crowds. Book in advance, as rental cars can be in high demand, especially during peak seasons.
If you don’t or won’t drive, there are multiple ways of getting around on your Oahu honeymoon.
Oahu’s public bus system, known as TheBus, is an economical and reliable way to travel.
It covers major attractions and routes throughout the island, including Waikiki, Honolulu, and more distant locales like Haleiwa on the North Shore.
In Waikiki, you can take the trolley or hire bicycles for a more sustainable way to get around. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also widely available.
Many couples will book excursions to take them to major sites, which is a great idea if you’re short on time.
Is an Oahu honeymoon package expensive?
Hawaii, in general, is not the cheapest destination.
However, Oahu has a lot of choice, which makes it a better option for couples planning a budget Hawaii honeymoon.
Consider travelling outside of peak season to reduce the cost of your Oahu honeymoon package, or take a look at the Caribbean / Central America for more affordable honeymoon ideas.
Work out the cost of a honeymoon in Oahu with our honeymoon calculator.
Should we use a travel agent to book a honeymoon in Oahu?
If planning seems to daunting, a good travel agent who books romantic getaways in Hawaii regularly will be able to take care of the nitty gritty details and may have preferential hotel rates. Plus, they sometimes provide extra benefits.
If you prefer to book a D-I-Y Oahu honeymoon package, we’d recommend choosing a flexible hotel rate with free cancellation with Booking.com.
You can book transfers and ferries, along with tours and excursions on GetYourGuide or Viator. Book car hire on RentalCars.com.
When you’re booking flights, if you can’t fly directly and are booking connecting flights, give yourself enough time to change airplanes.
We’d recommend at least a 2 to 3-hour layover for a stress-free experience (if travelling on one ticket).
Don’t forget to have travel insurance in place before booking, and if you’re not a US citizen, you’ll need a visa or visa waiver.
What about travel insurance?
Here at The Honeymoon Guide, we want you to have the best honeymoon possible. Safety is paramount when you’re planning an Oahu honeymoon itinerary.
It’s important to have travel insurance in place when you book your honeymoon. If you don’t have travel insurance, check out WorldNomads.com to learn more.
World Nomads provide travel insurance for travellers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance from World Nomads.
What should we pack for an Oahu honeymoon?
When you’re packing for your Oahu honeymoon, you’ll need comfortable clothing, swimsuits, sunscreen, and a hat for the beach.
If you plan to hike, pack sturdy shoes and a backpack.
Should we bring cash / should we tip in Oahu?
It’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand for tips and small purchases, although cards are widely accepted.
As in the rest of the US, tipping is customary in Hawaii, and it’s expected in restaurants, hotels, and other service-related industries. The standard tip is around 15-20% of the total bill.
Where can we tag on to Oahu for a multi destination honeymoon?
As you can see, whether you have 7 or 10 nights, Oahu has so much to do that you could easily spend your whole honeymoon there.
However, many couples visit Oahu as part of a Hawaii island hopping honeymoon, tagged onto Maui, Kauai, Big Island, or the Four Seasons Resort Lana’i.
Oahu is the best-connected island in Hawaii, so you can tag on any major US city as a stopover. Think of a fun few days in Las Vegas or New York, Los Angeles, or San Francisco.
Got more time? How about combining a California road trip with Oahu or the Canadian Rockies from Vancouver?
You could do a tour of the best of the Polynesian paradises with a French Polynesia add-on.
An adventure in Japan, Australia, or New Zealand would truly be the definition of a bucket list honeymoon.
Thinking about a cruise honeymoon? Most cruise lines, including some of our favourites like Royal Caribbean & Celebrity Cruises, also have sailings, mainly from Vancouver, giving you some time to relax with a few days at sea and then stopping at a few islands.
These cruises are usually booked one way, meaning you can start in Vancouver and add on some time for an Oahu honeymoon leg.
You can also take a transpacific cruise to/from continental USA and Australia/New Zealand that will take in some islands (and usually include other magical Pacific island nations too).
Or how about a week sailing around the Hawaiian Islands? NCL’s Pride of America has year-round 7-night itineraries sailing from Honolulu.
Things to consider before booking an Oahu honeymoon
While we love to recommend Oahu for honeymoon, there are some potential downsides that you might want to consider so you can make a well-informed decision and plan your dream honeymoon!
- Weather Vulnerability: While you would be unlucky to encounter extreme weather, Hawaii does have a cyclone season which can occasionally lead to regular heavy rains and winds which could spoil your honeymoon.
- Cost: Oahu has high costs for luxury accommodation, dining, and activities, which might not suit your budget. There are no all-inclusive resorts where you can leave the worries about the final bill at the door.
- Distance: Oahu is further away and if you only have a short time for your honeymoon, it may not be worth travelling so far away. You don’t want to have to deal with jet lag for your whole honeymoon!
- Over Tourism: Hawaii is one of the planet’s most popular and famous honeymoon destinations and over tourism can be an issue for local people and the environment in Oahu. The crowds of Waikiki beach can dial down the romance.
Map of Hawaii
TL;DR?
too long, didn’t read? some key Points…
If you are planning an Oahu honeymoon, we’d love to hear from you. Let us know if this guide was useful or if we left out any essential information.
Check out more of our Ultimate Honeymoon Guides series. We’re always adding new guides and please contact us if there is somewhere you’d love to see on The Honeymoon Guide!
Happy Planning x
Related Hawaii honeymoon articles
Best Time To Visit Hawaii for Honeymoon
Honeymoon Planning resources
Pin for later ✈️🤍
