Looking for the best Airbnbs in Oahu for the ultimate island escape? Filled with waterfalls, world class surf and beach side resorts, Oahu, Hawaii is the definition of a tropical paradise. Whether you are searching for a relaxing beach vacation, the perfect wave or an authentic Hawaiian experience, Oahu has an appeal for everyone. This article is to help make your search for the best Oahu Airbnb & VRBO’s easy and most fitting for your travel style.
Oahu also known as the ‘gathering place’ is the third largest Hawaiian Island, Maui being the second largest and the Big Island being – well you guessed it the biggest. Oahu is also the most populated Hawaiian Island.
Home to Hawaii’s capitol, Honolulu, Oahu boasts some of the islands best surf, nightlife and beaches. Waikiki and its famous Waikiki beach is Oahu’s biggest draw, nearly 10 million people visit the island each year.
Plus Honolulu is an international airport (HNL) making it the most convenient Hawaiian island to get to no matter where you are coming from.
Between the warm tropical climates year round, consistent surf and epic Oahu activities, it is know wonder people travel from all over the world to enjoy this small island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. The has a dynamic environment for some fabulous, beautiful and fun Oahu Airbnbs.
If you are looking for the perfect surf shack, a luxurious stay or a cheaper Oahu vacation rental, the choices are endless. To help you narrow down the options I put together a list of 15 of the best VRBO’s & airbnbs in Oahu so you can spend less time looking for where to stay in Oahu and more time planning your island excursions.
Travel Planning Tips: If you are planning a trip to the Hawaiian Islands out these articles for epic places to stay!
The Best VRBO’s & Airbnbs in Maui
For full transparency, I have sprinkled some affiliate links in this post. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases that gives me a small commission at no extra cost to you if you decided to make a purchase. As always, I would never recommend a product or service that I didn't truely believe in. All proceeds go to keep Jess traveling and coffee ☕️. I thank you in advance.
Many of the properties listed in this post are on multiple booking sites including VRBO, Airbnb & Booking. I linked through the site with cheapest price because it feels damn good to save a little money!
REASONS TO STAY IN A OAHU AIRBNB or VRBO
There are countless reasons to stay in Airbnbs in Oahu.
First, you get to pick the area of where you want to stay based on what you are traveling to Oahu for. For example if you want to experience tasty restaurants, shopping and nightlife then you should stay in a Waikiki Airbnb. If you are looking for the ultimate surf trip then opt for an Airbnb on the North Shore of Oahu.
Second, you are on your own schedule. Come and go as you like and have privacy. Cook meals at home to save a bit of money and plus most Oahu Airbnbs come with free parking.
If you are looking for an ocean view stay or for a bit of luxury in paradise, this list of the best vacation rentals & Airbnbs in Oahu will help navigate your decision making process.
QUICK OVERVIEW OF THE BEST VRBO’S & AIRBNBS IN Oahu, HAWAII
Below I have listed the top 7 Oahu Airbnbs based on location and purpose. This should make choosing your epic stay swift and seamless. Whether you are on an island adventure, on a romantic getaway or family vacation, there’s an Airbnb in Oahu for everyone.
- The Best Waikiki Airbnb – Life’s a Beach Oceanfront Condo
- The Best North Shore Oahu Airbnb – Kai aniani
- The Best Kailua Airbnb – Cottage at Hale
- The Most Unique Oahu Airbnb – Vida Mia
- The Best Cheap Airbnb in Oahu – Bahama Studio
- The Best Airbnb in Oahu for Large Groups – Gingerbread House
- The Best Oahu Airbnb for Families – Deluxe Oceanfront Suite
The Best Airbnbs in Oahu
Photo provided by Airbnb
Life’s a Beach Waikiki Oceanfront | The Best Waikiki Airbnb
- Location: Waikiki, Oahu
- Price: $795 a night
- Highlights: Location, Views, Luxury, In the action
It doesn’t get much better than this 3 bedroom oceanfront condo with unparalleled views of the Waikiki. This beautiful 3 bedroom, 3 bath Oahu vacation condo can accommodate up to 8 adults comfortably.
This condo is located directly on the beach. This means you won’t have to wear shoes your entire Hawaiian vacation unless you want to. Everything you need is literally at your doorstep, local restaurants, shopping, nightlife, surfing, swimming, sunset cruises, beach time, spas you name it…you got it.
The condo itself is a perfect blend of sophistication and luxury. The floor-to-ceiling infinity doors will make your jaw instantly drop to the floor. There is an insane ocean view from every room of the house. There are 2 large covered lanais (patios) with 240 degrees of the Waikiki waterfront, Waikiki city and Diamond head. Trust me when I say that sunsets will never be the same.
Cook your dinners in at the gourmet kitchen or opt for a dinner out as the stay is walkable to many world class restaurants. The bright and open design will make you never want to leave the condo. This place is the creme de le creme of Oahu Airbnbs and if you want to live like a legend during your stay in Oahu you will get that and more at the Life’s a beach Oceanfront Condo.
Photo provided by Airbnb
Kai aniani
The Best North Shore Oahu Airbnb
- Location: Waialua, Oahu
- Price: $1,950 a night
- Highlights: Luxury, Luxury, Luxury
Making the best Airbnbs in Oahu list for the North Shore is the the Kai aniani. The Kai ainiani, also known as the Sea of Glass is luxury on the North Shore of Oahu. The Sea of Glass is an architecturally stunning beachfront home.
As soon as you see it you will understand how it got its name. The front of the home has wall-to-wall sliding glass doors which offers stunning views from every room of the house.
Designed to treat your mind, body and soul. The breathtaking view of the ocean from every single window and door is simply amazing! There are four bedrooms in each corner of the main level of the house each having its own bathroom.
This stay accommodates up to 8 people comfortably and in luxury. The vaulted ceilings and floor to ceiling windows will make your jaw instantly drop to the floor as you are greeted with tropical ocean views. From the gourmet kitchen to the stunning views, this stay is luxury at its finest.
You won’t even have to leave the property to enjoy hiking, biking, swimming, snorkeling, surfing, and kayaking. It will be pretty hard to start packing when your stay is over. Not only is this a cool stay on the North Shore but it is one of the coolest Airbnbs in Hawaii!
North Shore Guides: The Best Things to do on the North Shore
Photo provided by Airbnb
The Cottage at Hale
The Best Kailua Airbnb
- Location: Kailua, Oahu
- Price: $515 a night
- Highlights: Location, Peaceful
The Cottage at Hale is the best Kailua Airbnb for its Hawaiian charm and modern sophistications. Located seconds away from one of Hawaii’s most renown beaches, the cottage at Hale is picture perfect paradise.
The house itself is bright and airy. The open floor plan, high ceilings and modern furnishings creates an inviting, creative and positive space. The kitchen is a focal point of the home and was built to feed the family. It is well stocked and has all the appliances you could want.
The outdoor shower looks like a picture out of a Hawaiian living magazine. This stay is just a little bit of heaven and Earth. Stay here for the dream family vacation you’ve been longing for.
Photos provided by VRBO
Charter the Historic Vida Mia
The Most Unique Oahu Airbnb
- Location: Honolulu, Oahu
- Price: $299 a night
- Highlights: Water adventures, Unique stay
Making the Airbnbs in Oahu list for the most unique stay is the Vida Mia. Image falling asleep to the sound of the waves gentle crashing against the harbor and getting gently rocked to sleep. This is what you’ll get if you opt for a stay on this private yacht!
Spend your days cruising the ocean, swimming with turtles and snorkeling at the best kept secrets. Surfboards, paddle boards, canoes and beach towels are provided at no additional charge so you can choose any ocean adventure that you desire. In the evenings and at night the boat will be moored in the harbor in Honolulu making it a perfect base to explore Waikiki and the surrounding area. This makes it walkable to restaurants and nightlife.
Accommodations on the yacht include a master stateroom with a king bed, AC, speedy WIFI, 2 baths, a full kitchen and a guest cabin with 2 twin beds. Experience the freedom of a cruising vacation minus the stress and hassle.
Photo provided by Airbnb
Bahama Studio | The Best Cheap Airbnb in Oahu
- Location: Waikiki, Oahu
- Price: $68 a night
- Highlights: Location, Price
If you are traveling Oahu on a budget then the Bahama Studio is a perfect option. Although it is a studio, the stay is spacious, fully furnished including a queen size bed, sofa and a full kitchen. Plus it has a private lanai perfect for your morning coffee as you plan the days adventures
The Bahama studio is located in the heart of Waikiki, a block and a half from Waikiki Beach. The location is perfect and walking distance to everything you need including the surf, beach, swimming, tons of restaurants, nightlife and shopping.
One of the best amenities of staying at this studio is the free parking! Trust me, finding good parking is hard in Waikiki and also usually ends up costing an arm and a leg. The free parking here is a great way to save money, your wallet will thank you. A few other amenities that you will get to enjoy staying at this Waikiki Airbnb is the common swimming pool, sun deck, laundry room as well as the restaurant and bar located on the ground floor. Stay here for location and price.
Photo provided by Airbnb
The Gingerbread House
The Best Airbnb in Oahu for Large Groups
- Location: Honolulu, Oahu
- Price: $538 a night
- Highlights: Aloha charm, Backyard, Size
The Gingerbread House is another beautiful luxurious Oahu Airbnb. The 4 bedroom, 3 and a half bath house comfortably sleeps 10 guests which makes this an optimal stay for large groups or extended families traveling together.
The Gingerbread House is a picture perfect Hawaiian home, vaulted ceilings, modern appliances and beautiful French doors that open up to the backyard. This exquisite home defines aloha, comfort and charm. In the backyard is where you’ll spend most of your time. There are outdoor dining areas, a saltwater pool, hot tub, BBQ, poolside cabana and lounges by the pool.
The historic house is located in Kāhala, an affluent neighborhood of Honolulu, Hawaii. Kahala is famous in the islands for its exclusive real estate and beachfront properties, which include some of the most expensive properties in the entire state.
The neighborhood is between Diamond Head, the Kahala Hotel and the Waialae Country Club where the Sony Open is held. The far enough from Waikiki to be able from the hustle and bustle but close enough to be in the action within a few minutes drive. With the Kahala beach right across the street, you won’t be disappointed with the location, amenities or views.
Rediscover the old adage: Family that plays together, stay together and make this family vacation unforgettable!
Photo provided by Airbnb
Oceanfront Condo | The Best Oahu Airbnb for Families
- Location: Waikiki, Oahu
- Price: $457 a night
- Highlights: Ocean views, Hotel style amenities
There is no better way to wake up in Hawaii than with an ocean view. You can just that at this Deluxe Oceanfront Suite at the Aston Waikiki Beach Tower which is why this made the best Airbnbs in Oahu list. The 2 bedroom, 2 bath ocean view condo can accommodate up to 6 guests, perfect if you are traveling with a small family with kids as there are 2 single beds in one room and a king bed in the master suite. The couch also pulls out into a queen size bed.
The beautiful suite has a chef’s kitchen, dining area, living room, large lanai (a.k.a. deck) and AC. A cup of coffee in the mornings on the lanai with unparalleled views of the ocean are how mornings should always be. The master suite also has breathtaking views and a door that opens to the lanai. You have the option to take a shower or pamper yourself in the deep-soaking tub, I mean your Oahu vacation is meant for relaxation after all.
Staying here gives access to lots of luxurious amenities that you will feel like you’re staying at a hotel. A few of these amenities include 2 swimming pools, a hot tub, yoga & spin studio, fitness center, BBQ stations, poolside cabanas and free parking. Stay at this oceanfront suite for hotel style luxuries at a fraction of the price.
More Stand out Vrbo’s & Airbnbs in Oahu
Photo provided by Airbnb
Waimea Bay North Shore Ocean Front
- Location: Haleawa, Oahu
- Price: $595 a night
- Highlights: Surfers paradise, Ocean adventures
If you are traveling to Oahu for the ultimate wave, the Waimea Bay North Shore Ocean Front is a surfers paradise. This 3 bedroom, 2 bath house can sleep up to 6 people. The house is directly in front of Waimea surf break at Waimea Point where you can watch people paddle in from the balcony. This is the heart of the North Shore.
Perched on the ocean’s edge, the house is cozy and has lots of Hawaiian charm. The home as all the modern amenities including a fully equipped kitchen, wifi, BBQ grills, AC and deck over looking the ocean.
This isn’t only a stay for surfers, the best scuba diving and snorkeling on this whole side of the island are right off the front of the house. Three Tables Beach and Sharks Cove are both walking distance away.
Beach cruisers are available for rent to ride the bike path and explore the North Shore. Pipeline and Sunset Beaches are just a mile away, along with Waimea Falls. If you’re seeking Hawaii sunshine, surf, views to experience true beachfront living, this is the place!
Photo provided by Airbnb
Stunning Penthouse
- Location: Waikiki, Oahu
- Price: $285 a night
- Highlights: Location, View, Space
This stunning penthouse condo is all about the location and the views! Located on the top floor of the Waikiki Grand Hotel, this penthouse is steps away from Waikiki Beach, paradise is at your doorstep. Not only is paradise at your door step but so is shopping, restaurants, bars and nightlife.
The bright, light and airy decor makes the penthouse very inviting and open. The 1 bedroom, 2 bath makes getting ready a breeze as you won’t have to fight over who gets the bathroom first. This is the largest penthouse in the Waikiki Grand Hotel so space won’t be an issue. This is a perfect stay for a couple or solo traveler.
You will love the panoramic views from the deck of Diamond Head, Kapiolani Park, the Honolulu Zoo and Waikiki Beach. Sunrises and sunsets can’t get better than this. Although this sundeck is the common area for the building, this is the corner unit so you will have your privacy.
Feel the ‘WOW’ factor of beachfront bliss. Views, space and location are just some of the reasons to book this Airbnb in Waikiki.
Photo provided by Airbnb
Custom Home on Wheels
- Location: Kaneohe, Oahu
- Price: $121 a night
- Highlights: Freedom, Price
Can’t decide which part of Oahu you want to stay on? Don’t decide, opt for a custom home on wheels and stay all around Oahu. The inside wood walls and a wood floor which gives you a feel of staying in a cabin.
The converted van has all your basic amenities to explore Oahu and sleep by the ocean every night. Some of these amenities include a memory foam bed, cook top, kitchenware, running water, mini fridge, microwave, coffee maker, TV and solar panel for all your charging needs. Plus it comes with beach equipment like chairs and towels so all you have to do is show up and have a thirst for adventure.
This is the perfect Airbnb if you want the freedom to explore all of Oahu but are on a budget.
Photo provided by Airbnb
Islander’s Ocean View
- Location: Waikiki, Oahu
- Price: $109 a night
- Highlights: Location, Convenience
The Islander’s Ocean View is another Oahu vacation rental located in the heart of Waikiki, 2 blocks away from the beach. This recently renovated bubbly Airbnb has vintage, pastel decor that will instantly make you feel the happy vibes that it excudes.
Like most Oahu Airbnbs in Waikiki, this stay is walkable to everything you need. Food trucks, restaurants, bars, shopping, entertainment, surf shops, nightlife, you name it, it’s walkable. Parking is not included so if you are here for a shorter stay or long weekend and don’t plan on exploring other parts of the island, this place will be very convenient as you can walk to everything.
Beachfront Bungalow
- Location: Haleawa, Oahu
- Price: $350 a night
- Highlights: Beachfront, Surf, Slower pace
If you are looking for a beachfront getaway then this is the stay for you. This Haleawa Airbnb is located 15 minutes from Haleiwa towndirectly on the water. This beachfront backyard bungalow is located just to the right of famous Sunset Beach, one of the most desirable beaches in the world.
The 2 bedroom, 1 bath house is perfect for a small family or a couple. The North Shore is the surfing capitol of the world so you’ll hear and see consistent waves day and night. World class surf break “Backyards” directly in front of house!
Cook dinner in and enjoy a peaceful evening watching the sun sink into the Pacific Ocean and experiencing the slower pace of the North Shore. Haleawa is also a short distance away where you’ll find restaurants and markets if you don’t feel like cooking in. Stay here for surf, sand and serenity.
Photo provided by Airbnb
Tropical Master Suite
- Location: Honolulu, Oahu
- Price: $145 a night
- Highlights: Price, Serenity, Close proximity to hikes
Another great Airbnb in Honolulu for the budget conscience (at least for Hawaii’s standards) is this Tropical Master Suite. The beautiful suite is serene and is fitted with koa wood furnishings.
The bright, light and airy feel to the suite is very inviting and creates a calming, positive space. The stay is a large master bedroom and bathroom plus a private outdoor patio to soak up the sounds and sights of nature.
The only downfall to this Airbnb would be the lack of kitchen since it is an attached Ohana. But if you preferred way to explore an area is by eating your way around town then this won’t be a problem. Oahu is full of local food trucks (my favorites are on the North Shore) and restaurants serving local dishes that could use your support more than ever since being impacted so heavily by the current pandemic.
There are several hiking trails close by making this a perfect stay for the nature lover. Centrally located to Ala Moana shopping center, there are also several restaurants nearby, along with shopping and entertainment. Plus Waikiki is only 10 minutes away. Stay here for the price and to feel tucked away from the chaos of the city but still close by.
Photo provided by Airbnb
Villa Frangipani
- Location: Kailua, Oahu
- Price: $750 a night
- Highlights: Walking distance to Kailua Beach and Kailua town
The Villa Frangipani is a beautiful home located in Kailua on the Eastern side of Oahu. This 4 bedroom, 4 bath home can accommodate up to 8 guests. As soon as you enter the property you will be immersed with the lush tropical foliage of Hawaii.
The house itself an elegant blend of Hawaiian and Balinese charm. The backyard is a true gem complete with a lagoon style pool, outdoor shower, lush garden and outdoor dining area. The open floor plan and living area create a relaxing space. The kitchen was fit for a chef and has everything you need to whip up a gourmet meal.
The best part may be the location. Villa Frangipani is only a 2 minute stroll to the white sand of Kailua Beach, one of the most iconic beaches in Oahu. It is also walking distance to Kailua town which is full of grocery stores, restaurants, shops and more.
AND VOILA! – THOSE ARE THE BEST AIRBNBS IN Oahu! DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE VACATION RENTAL IN Oahu? LET ME KNOW IN THE COMMENTS BELOW!
Enjoy this Post?!?! Pin in for Later ↓
