Where to Stay in Honolulu: Best Areas Outside of Waikiki

If you’re planning a perfect Honolulu Hawaii vacation to relax and unwind, it is important to know where to stay in Honolulu.

Most people assume the best area to stay in Honolulu is in Waikiki, but this crowded tourist area is not for everyone. That’s why we created this guide to help you find the perfect place to stay in Honolulu, Hawaii outside of Waikiki.

Jedd knows Honolulu well because he grew up there. Now, we visit family on Oahu several times a year and often help friends plan their trips to the island. 

Oahu is a unique place in that it has a major city on a relatively small island. Oahu is a popular destination because of the picturesque landscapes, incredible beaches, wide range of amenities, great hikes, and favorable weather year-round.

Learn more about the great activities on Oahu and plan your itinerary >
Download our free printable packing list for Hawaii >

Where to Stay in Honolulu: Best Areas

Waikiki beach is considered the hub for tourist restaurants, shopping, sandy beaches, water sports, hotels, and Airbnbs. However, if you prefer not to stay among the tourist crowds, there are plenty of other great places to stay in Honolulu that are not in Waikiki.

We’ll show you some of the best vacation rentals and hotels in some of Honolulu’s best areas to stay. Click to skip ahead:

Manoa Valley & University of Hawaii area
Kaimuki Neighborhood
Kahala and East Honolulu
Hawaii Kai Area
Downtown & Kaka’ako

Updated: Spring 2023. Originally published: 2022.

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Why is it so difficult to find Airbnbs and Vacation Rentals in Honolulu?

Short term rentals on Oahu are only allowed in certain areas. Unlike Oahu hotels, a 30-day minimum rental period is legally required for vacation rentals.

The goal of these regulations is to protect permanent housing costs and neighborhood quality for residents. It makes the supply of vacation homes on Oahu very limited.

In 2022, a controversial new ordinance passed on short term rentals in Oahu, increasing the minimum stay from 30 days to 90 days. This has since been blocked by an injunction, and the 30 day minimum remains.

Short-term vacation rentals are allowed in resort-zoned areas, such as Waikiki, and a few other select buildings. Exceptions are made for Bed & Breakfasts, rentals where the homeowner lives on site, and grandfathered rentals that maintain their certification.

Best Hostels and Vacation Rentals around Manoa Valley

Manoa is one of the closest valley neighborhoods next to Honolulu city center. It’s especially lush because it gets more rains than other areas nearby. At the “mouth” of the valley, you’ll find the University of Hawaii campus as well as Punahou School, where Obama was a student in his youth.

Hostelling International Honolulu

Hostelling International Honolulu is a hostel featuring bunk beds in an all male or all female dormitory with shared kitchen, TV, and lounge area. This property is highly rated for its convenient location and great staff.

Location: Next to University of Hawaii

Cost: $/$$

Lodging style:  Hostel dormitory

Amenities/highlights:  

• One of the cheapest places to stay in town
• Shared kitchen
• Free, limited parking
• Free wifi
• TV/lounge area

Guests Say:  

“Everything about this hostel is perfect. The staff were so so friendly and that’s what really made my stay memorable.” | “The quietness, friendly staff, the price is ok, the location is great and just feel like home.” | “Covid cleanliness is top notch”

Downsides: Bunk dorm rooms offer less privacy

Check rates and availability for Hostelling International Honolulu >

Manoa Valley Inn, Honolulu

A charming and relaxing historical house with spectacular backyard garden and small swimming pool, Manoa Valley Inn gives guests a feeling of another era. This bed and breakfast is located near the city center, residential neighborhoods, and University of Hawaii. Guest rooms include private bath and up to two guests.

Location: Next to UH, 1/2 mile from Manoa Falls

Cost: $$$

Lodging style: Bed and breakfast

Amenities/highlights:  

• Historic building and unique decor
• Free parking
• American & buffet breakfast
• Outdoor swimming pool
• Garden and sun terrace
• Private bathroom

Guests Say:  

“A very special and unique house in Honolulu! The house and hosts will linger a long time in memory!” | “The room was nice, the garden view at breakfast was lovely.” | “The room was very big with wooden floors, a colonialistic style with lots of items from the past.”

Check rates and availability for Manoa Valley Inn >

Top Manoa Valley Airbnbs

Charming Manoa House recently remodeled – 3bed/1bath, sleeps 6
Manoa Valley Duplex with Views – 2 bed/2.5bath, sleeps 4
Mālie Hale – 1bed/1bath, sleeps 2

Kaimuki, St. Louis Heights, Wilhelmina Rise Neighborhoods

Moving East from the city center and U.H., the neighborhood of Kaimuki has its own up-and-coming commercial district on Waialae Avenue. To the North is the ridge neighborhood of Wilhelmina Rise with convenient access to the H1 highway by car, as well as Diamond Head just a short drive South.

4 guests · 1 bedroom · 1 bath

Lovers Hideaway is a modern rental home, bright and airy with wonderful views of the ocean. This property is located in a Honolulu neighborhood within short driving distance to coffee shops, restaurants, shopping centers and beaches. It is situated on a hill which may not be ideal for guests with mobility issues.

Location: Maunalani Heights neighborhood, near Mau’umae Ridge Trailhead

Cost:  $$

Lodging style: Vacation home

Amenities/highlights:  

• Private parking
• Washer & dryer
• Kitchenette, living room
• Free WiFi
• Coastal views

Guests Say:  

“Pretty location, nice property and the rental itself was clean and just what we were hoping for.” | “What a great little place with a view to match… If you would like to stay out of the hustle and bustle of the Waikiki area this is a terrific option.” | “Loren, our host, was lovely and the unit was peaceful, updated and perfectly appointed… The home is high on a hill and the ocean views and breezes were delightful.”

Downsides:

• Flight of stairs to climb going to the property, not recommended for guests with mobility issues
• Requires minimum 30 day rental

Check rates and availability for Lovers Hideaway with Ocean view >

Hale Aloha 4BR Vacation Rental and Minivan

10 guests · 4 bedrooms · 5 beds · 3 bath

This eco-friendly rental home in a quiet neighborhood of St. Louis Heights gives guests a chance to experience what it’s like to live on the island. This rental offers panoramic views, a hot tub, and free use of a minivan included (conditions apply).

This rental currently advertises a 7 night minimum.

Location: St. Louis Heights ridge neighborhood

Cost:  $$$

Lodging style: Vacation home

Amenities/highlights:  

• Kitchen, Dining Area
• Deck/Patio, Lawn/Garden
• free minivan rental and parking
• great host nearby

Guests Say:  

“The accommodations were everything we hoped for – comfortable, spacious, well-equipped, central location for everything and spectacular view of Honolulu.“

Check rates and availability for Hale Aloha >

Top Kaimuki & Wilhelmina Airbnb Rentals

2BR Island Retreat – 2bed/1bath, sleeps 5
Clean Studio with AC, Parking – Studio sleeps 2

Best Hotel Resorts and Vacation Rentals in Kahala and beyond

On the Eastern side of Diamond Head is the upscale Kahala neighborhood, also home to Kahala Mall and Whole Foods. The Saturday Farmer’s Market at KCC is another popular reason to visit this area.

The Kahala Hotel and Resort

The Kahala Hotel and Resort is a beachfront property situated on a private beach in Honolulu. It’s one of the rare Honolulu hotels outside Waikiki and the city center. Guests have easy access to four onsite restaurants and can enjoy a full-service spa, fitness and yoga center, and kid’s club. 

We have only visited the Arancino restaurant here, but our family and friends have staycationed at the Kahala Resort and had good things to report.

Location: Kahala Beach

Cost: $$$$

Lodging style: Hotel resort

Amenities/highlights:  

• Beachfront property
• Restaurants on site
• Swimming pool
• Free surfing and stand-up paddle introduction
• Free shuttle to Ala Moana Shopping Center

Guests Say:  

“This place is beautiful and relaxing. We will definitely be returning.” | “Location and setting was ideal. Close to Waikiki just a short drive away.” | “Fantastic beach location made for a relaxing and enjoyable stay. Great bed and pillows, good range of toiletries, spacious room, good natural light with view of mountains”

Check rates and availability for The Kahala Hotel and Resort >

Charming Studio Near Kahala Beach

2 guests · 1 bedroom · 1 bed · 1 bath

This studio apartment near Kahala Beach is a spacious and beautiful accommodation just 10 minute walk to the beach and perfect for couples who want to live like locals during their stay. This clean and well-maintained studio is on the same property as the owner’s home but it’s a separate structure giving guests their privacy.

Location: Kahala, 10 minute walk to the beach

Cost:  $$$

Lodging style:  Studio rental

Amenities/highlights:  

• Full kitchen
• Deck/Patio
• Garden
• Free parking

Guests Say:  

 “The space was so well appointed, the garden was divine, the hosts were so gracious, and the neighborhood and location were perfect.” | “The location was so convenient to everywhere I needed to go, plus being in an upscale, safe neighborhood near a peaceful beach.” | “The owners are very hospitable and helpful. 5 stars all the way!” 

Check rates and availability for Charming Studio Near Kahala Beach >

Boutique-style Apartment Rental with ocean views

2 guests · 1 bedroom · 1 bed · 1 bath

This apartment is within a quiet upscale neighborhood between Diamond Head and Hawaii Kai. This peaceful property is a 10 minute drive away from the hustle and bustle of Waikiki and offer guests spectacular views of the ocean from the private lanai and bedroom.

Location: Near Kahala Resort

Cost:  $$

Lodging style: Apartment rental

Amenities/highlights:  

• Deck/Patio
• Ocean Views
• Air conditioning

Guests Say:  

“It was the perfect location and had everything you needed!” | “The property was amazing, clean and in a perfect location. My only regret is that we did not stay longer. I highly recommend this place!” | “This rental could not be any better… location perfect. Set in a stunning neighborhood and just moments from everything you need with stunning views and water minutes away…”

Check rates and availability for Boutique-style apartment with ocean views >

Hale Wa’a – House of the Canoe Guest House Rental

4+ guests · 4 beds · 2 baths

Hale Wa’a is a comfortable 2 story guest house with friendly hosts in the main house. This property is in a residential area within walking distance to the beach and with convenient transportation going downtown. It is a great option for a small group of family or friends.

Location: 5 minute walk to Kahala Beach

Cost:  $$$

Lodging style: Guest house

Amenities/highlights:  

• Full kitchen
• Kid-friendly amenities and beach gear
• Jacuzzi Bathtub
• Washer & Dryer

Guests Say:  

“House is in a great neighborhood with everything we needed nearby.” | “Quentin was a great host-prompt with communications, friendly and the living space was clean and comfortable with everything we needed. We would definitely stay there again!” | “The hosts were super friendly, informative and responsive and the apartment was well-equipped.”

Check rates and availability for Hale Wa’a – House of the Canoe >

Top Kahala Airbnbs

Diamond Head Plumeria Studio – 1bed/1bath, sleeps 2

Best Vacation Rentals in Hawaii Kai Neighborhood

Hawaii Kai is on the southeastern corner of Oahu, near Koko Head and Hanauma Bay. Still considered part of Honolulu, it’s far from city high rises and has its own commercial area that includes Costco, supermarkets, and many restaurants. The residential neighborhood is built around a man-made lagoon that gives it a unique feel.

Ocean View Cottage with Separate Suite

6 guests · studio + suite · 4 beds · 1 bath

This extended stay vacation cottage includes a separate suite nestled within Hawaii Kai’s beautiful landscape. It offers guests a private and peaceful accommodation with wonderful views of the ocean and lush mountain.

Location: Hillside Hawaii Kai

Cost:  $$/$$$

Lodging style: Cottage rental

Amenities/highlights:  

• Fantastic ocean and mountain views from the deck
• Kitchen
• Jacuzzi

Downsides: Parking is steep, some mosquitos

Guests Say:  

“We loved this property! The view, privacy, and accommodations were excellent. We would stay there again and hope to return in the future.” | “This place was GREAT! Surpassed all my expectations! So private and wonderful.” | ” The location is convenient to shopping.”

Check rates and availability for Ocean View Cottage with Separate Suite  >

Relax in a clean, comfy spaciously designed guest house

6 guests · 2 bedrooms · 5 beds · 2 baths

This beautiful and spacious guest house allows guests to enjoy a relaxing and comfortable stay. Panoramic views of Koko Head, Hanauma Bay ridges, and Kuliouou mountain ridges can be seen from the living room windows. 

Location:  Walk distance to Maunalua Bay and Hawaii Kai shopping center

Cost:  $$$

Lodging style: Guest house

Amenities/highlights:  

• Well-stocked kitchen
• Panoramic views
• Parking
• Washer & dryer

Guests Say:  

“Comfortable, clean, quiet, and well stocked with basic essentials. This location is a welcomed retreat from the hustle of Waikiki.” | “Scott is an excellent host, and his home is one of the very best properties at which we’ve ever stayed. The location and ambiance are really hard to beat. If we are ever back in Honolulu, we would pick this house again in a heartbeat.”

Check rates and availability for Clean, comfy spaciously designed guest house >

Top Hawaii Kai Airbnbs

Villa Laule’a: Waterfront home – 4bed/3bath, sleeps 6
HI-Vibe Hawaiian Haven – 2bed/2bath, sleeps 6

Best Airbnbs and Vacation Rentals in Downtown & Kaka’ako

Kaka’ako is a trendy part of town that used to be an industrial warehouse district. It’s known for its new restaurants and condo complexes, colorful street art, close proximity to Ala Moana shopping center and beach park, and Kaka’ako Saturday Market.

This area is also conveniently near the convention center as well as many of Honolulu’s historic buildings and government offices. It’s not far from Pearl Harbor and the HNL airport either.

Downtown Honolulu is one of the closest areas to stay near the Honolulu airport (HNL). It’s close to the city’s historic buildings and government offices as well as Chinatown.

Heart of Downtown Honolulu 1 Bedroom Condo Rental

8 guests · 4 beds · 1 bath

This 1 bedroom condo is newly remodeled and conveniently located in Downtown Honolulu. Guests can easily reach the financial district, arts district, Chinatown, restaurants, bars, shops, and more by foot when staying in this property. A full service restaurant in the building lobby is available.

Location: Downtown Honolulu, short walk to Aloha Tower, Iolani Palace, and Honolulu Museum of Art

Cost: $$

Lodging style: Condo vacation rental

Amenities/highlights:  

• free parking
• pool, jacuzzi
• fully stocked kitchen
• washer & dryer

Guests Say:  

“The location is super convenient.” | “Such a cute and very clean place to stay! Would book again!” | “Hanh was a wonderful host with excellent communication. She had all the basic amenities available and more!”

Check rates and availability for Heart of Downtown Honolulu >

Downtown 2BR Apartment

7 guests · 5 beds · 1 bath

This apartment complex features a restaurant, an outdoor swimming pool and a shared lounge. Guests can enjoy beautiful views of the ocean while relaxing at the sun terrace. The property is also located near Sand Island Beach and Iolani Palace.

Location: Downtown, 2 blocks from Hawaii State Art Museum

Cost:  $$/$$$

Lodging style: Apartment rental

Amenities/highlights:  

• kitchen
• outdoor pool
• view
• free parking

Guests Say:  

“Really enjoyed staying there, very good location, layout was a little quirky. Would stay there again.” | “Location was amazing!! A few blocks away from the palace…” | “Area was quiet and view was awesome. Loved looking at the city lights as I was falling asleep.”

Downsides: Parking is on the 10th floor

Check rates and availability for Downtown 2BR Apartment >

Top Kaka’ako Ala Moana Airbnb

SayShells Extended-Stay Apartment Rental – 1bed/1bath, sleeps 3 great for longer stays in Honolulu

FAQ About Where to Stay in Honolulu

What is the difference between Honolulu and Waikiki?
If you’re not familiar with the Hawaiian islands, the capital city of Honolulu is on the island of Oahu. Within Honolulu city is the famous white sand beaches of Waikiki. The district immediately surrounding the beach with its brand name shops, galleries, and fine dining is known generally as Waikiki.

Why not stay in Waikiki?
Waikiki is a popular place for tourists. For many, being centrally located in the tourist hub is ideal. Some down sides, however, include: large crowds of people, higher priced amenities, being surrounded by city traffic, limited and expensive parking, and limited connection to local Hawaiian culture.

Is Waikiki beach too crowded?
Technically Waikiki Beach is the area in front of the Royal Hawaiian Hotel to the Moana Surfrider Hotel. These hotel beaches at the heart of Waikiki can be very crowded, especially during peak seasons. Sometimes they get crowded to the point where visitors no longer enjoy the experience but of course, this depends on personal preference.

Which part of Honolulu should you stay in?
It depends on your trip goals. Honolulu hotels outside Waikiki are few and far between. If you’re looking for hosted guest rooms, consider Manoa Valley Inn. For a more luxury resort, the Kahala Resort is the closest in town.

If you like to stay in a neighborhood, look at Manoa Valley & University of Hawaii area, Kaimuki Neighborhood, Kahala and East Honolulu, and probably our favorite (though it’s farthest from town), Hawaii Kai Area. If you still like to be among city life, trendy shops, and fine dining, look at Downtown & Kaka’ako. 

What is the best way to get around Honolulu?

A car is the easiest way to get around Oahu, though rush hour traffic and parking can often be a chore. Ride shares like Uber or Lyft can solve those problems for you. Car rental prices are very expensive these days due to the pandemic. There are city buses and tourist buses in Honolulu but the routes are somewhat limited compared to other major cities. 

* Access our free Hawaii packing checklist here *

We hope our accommodation guide about where to stay on Oahu, not Waikiki, has been helpful to you. If you have other recommendations for the best places to stay in Honolulu, please share in the comments below.

More about visiting Honolulu

For further reading about Honolulu and Oahu:

– 5 Great Routes to Run or Walk in Honolulu and Waikiki, Oahu
– A Visitor’s Guide to Hiking on Oahu – Hawaii
– One Week Oahu Itinerary & Activities List
– Is the Go Oahu Card worth it? Review and best uses
– Where Else to Stay on Oahu Free Guide (includes other parts of the island)
– 5 Day Oahu Itinerary Ideas
– Best Sunset and Sunrise Hikes in Oahu

For other Hawaii destinations:

– Things to Do in Kona Hawaii On A Budget
– Wa’ahila Ridge Trail Hike – Honolulu, Hawaii 
– Olomana Hike – Oahu
– Kuli’ou’ou Ridge Trail – Oahu, Hawaii Hike
– Lulumahu Falls hike – Oahu
– Lanikai Pillbox Hike – Kailua, Oahu
– What to pack for a week in Hawaii: Packing Checklist