A charming travel guide to Oahu — one of our favorite Hawaiian islands packed with unforgettable sights and activities. Below is a curated guide to some of our favorite spots, recommended places to stay, eat, and explore, and a mini itinerary to help you make the most of your visit.
Oahu won my heart — it matched everything I imagine Hawaii to be. We visited Maui earlier in the year and enjoyed it, but Oahu felt like the classic Hawaiian experience I’d always dreamed about.
When we had the chance to visit Oahu with Salt & Wind, I was excited to explore the island with local guides. From our first moments at the hotel to drives along the North Shore, this island delivered stunning beaches, lush jungle scenery (parts of Jurassic Park were filmed here), and a lively local culture.
We discovered neighborhoods many tourists miss, like Chinatown, where restored bars and independent shops give the area new life. Eating at traditional, off-the-beaten-path Hawaiian restaurants recommended by locals made the trip especially memorable. Below is a guide to where we stayed, ate, and shopped.
Hotels to Stay at in Oahu
The Modern in Honolulu
We began our stay at The Modern Honolulu, a stylish boutique hotel with a mid-century-meets-modern vibe. While some worry Honolulu feels too developed, the area around Waikiki still captures that colorful, classic Hawaiian energy — bright umbrellas, swaying palms, and lively beachfront bars. The Modern blends vintage flair with contemporary comforts, and its signature scent — available as candles and sprays in the gift shop — is unforgettable.
The pool and dining options were excellent, and the hotel’s location makes it easy to enjoy city life while still being close to hikes and waterfalls on Oahu.
The Royal Hawaiian
For a classic photo op and a taste of old Honolulu glamour, stop by The Royal Hawaiian. Its iconic pink exterior and signature Mai Tais make it a memorable destination, even if you’re just popping in for a drink.
The Modern’s proximity to local favorites and Waikiki’s main attractions allowed us to balance city exploration with quick trips to natural sites and waterfalls.
We spent one day driving up the island to the North Shore and checked into Turtle Bay Resort, stopping at beaches, shrimp trucks, small towns, and several scenic lookouts along the way.
Turtle Bay Resort
Turtle Bay on the North Shore was a highlight — a full-service resort with plenty of amenities and outdoor activities. After a major renovation, the grounds and facilities feel fresh and luxurious. There’s yoga, horseback riding, two golf courses, and a gorgeous pool (complete with a slide my husband couldn’t resist). The resort’s setting on the North Shore feels like a true Hawaiian paradise.
Mini Itinerary and Guide to Oahu
Split your time between The Modern Honolulu and Turtle Bay Resort to experience both the city energy of Honolulu and the tranquil beauty of the North Shore.
Sample day: Lunch at Mission Social Hall & Cafe, where Chef Mark Noguchi served authentic Hawaiian flavors that stood out as a highlight.
Dinner suggestions included Morimoto Waikiki at The Modern and Mud Hen Water for inventive dishes inspired by Hawaiian flavors. For nightlife, explore Chinatown’s revitalized bar scene — favorites included Livestock Tavern and The Pig & The Lady.
Start a nature day by hiking to Manoa Falls — the lush trail ends at a beautiful waterfall. On the way, stop for coffee at neighborhood cafés like Morning Glass Coffee. For an evening treat, take a night walk on the beach and enjoy Mai Tais at The Royal Hawaiian.
Visit the KCC Farmers Market for a wide selection of local produce and goods. Then head north: the drive to the North Shore is scenic and full of stops worth making.
Filming of Jurassic Park
Kualoa Valley is a private nature reserve where parts of Jurassic Park were filmed. Guided tours and horseback rides let you experience the dramatic landscapes up close.
Don’t miss the Pali Lookout for sweeping island views. Kailua Beach is another favorite for its white sand and calm, blue water — ideal for relaxing.
On the North Shore, explore local boutiques like Aloha Supperette and unique experiences such as horseback rides to Kawela Bay with a picnic lunch arranged by Turtle Bay. The North Shore Soap Factory at Waialua Sugar Mill offers soap-making demonstrations and tours.
Travel companions make the journey more joyful — these friends made our trip unforgettable.
Oahu remains one of my favorite islands because it offers such a range of experiences: vibrant city life, peaceful countryside, and stunning beaches. It truly felt perfect.
Photos by Zan Passante for Sugar and Charm