Oahu’s famous North Shore is a paradise that captures the essence of Hawaiian island living. With its legendary surf breaks, beautiful beaches, and breathtaking natural beauty, this region offers a wide array of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s needs and preferences.
From luxurious resorts, charming beachfront bungalows, and summer food trucks (shrimp trucks are a fan favorite) to budget-friendly hostels and scenic campgrounds, the North Shore caters to all styles and budgets.
Immerse yourself in the laid-back island lifestyle, explore the beautiful outdoors, and create long-lasting memories in this Hawaiian haven by choosing one of the exceptional places to stay listed below.
1. Turtle Bay Resort
Spanning across 1,300 pristine acres, Turtle Bay Resort is an adventurer’s playground and a true oasis on the North Shore. Boasting 408 guest rooms and suites, all with breathtaking ocean views, as well as 42 exclusive Ocean Bungalows, this resort offers a perfect blend of luxury and adventure.
Indulge in farm-fresh dining at six restaurants and bars, including the signature Alaia, which sources ingredients from Kuilima Farm, offering a true farm-to-table experience.
One of the highlights of a stay at Turtle Bay Resort is the weekly Paniolo Paina dinner show, a unique luau celebration complete with an outdoor feast, live entertainment, a pony meet and greet, and a mesmerizing fire knife show.
This immersive cultural experience offers a glimpse into the rich traditions and customs of Hawaii, creating lasting memories for guests of all ages.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find themselves spoiled for choice at Turtle Bay Resort, with 12 miles of biking and hiking trails winding through lush landscapes, five miles of secluded shoreline ideal for beachcombing and sunset strolls, and a plethora of water sports and activities.
Surf lessons with Jamie O’Brien Surf Experience, led by one of the world’s most renowned surfers, offer an unforgettable opportunity to learn or improve your skills on some of the planet’s most legendary waves.
Helicopter tours, horseback riding, golf on two championship courses, a world-class spa, and various other pursuits are available on-site, ensuring an unforgettable stay for adventurers of all ages and skill levels.
With its unparalleled amenities and stunning natural surroundings, Turtle Bay Resort is a true haven for those seeking luxury, adventure, and the ultimate Hawaiian experience.
2. Courtyard by Marriott
Nestled in the heart of Laie, the Courtyard by Marriott Oahu North Shore offers a convenient base for exploring the North Shore’s myriad attractions.
This modern hotel provides a comfortable and convenient stay with an outdoor pool, a well-equipped fitness center, and an on-site restaurant serving delectable local and international cuisine.
Guests can enjoy the convenience of free WiFi, air-conditioned rooms with pay-per-view channels, and a prime location just steps away from the Polynesian Cultural Center and Brigham Young University Hawaii.
Couples and families alike will appreciate the hotel’s family-friendly amenities, including a children’s pool and a range of activities tailored to keep younger guests entertained.
The Courtyard by Marriott’s prime location also puts you within easy reach of some of the North Shore’s most iconic locations, such as Waimea Bay Beach Park, Waimea Valley, and Sunset Beach, ensuring that you can experience the best of Hawaii’s surf culture and natural wonders during your stay.
3. Ocean Bungalows at Turtle Bay Resort
For those seeking a more private and exclusive experience, the Ocean Bungalows at Turtle Bay Resort offer beachfront accommodations just steps away from Turtle Beach.
These air-conditioned bungalows feature spacious living areas, terraces, or patios, some with stunning views, and come equipped with modern amenities like coffee machines, fridges, and flat-screen TVs.
Guests of the Ocean Bungalows can enjoy access to the resort’s world-class facilities, including multiple swimming pools, a state-of-the-art fitness center, a variety of restaurants and bars, and a wide range of activities and excursions.
The bungalows offer a perfect blend of privacy and luxury, allowing guests to retreat to their own personal oasis while still having access to all the amenities and experiences that Turtle Bay Resort has to offer.
4. Kalani Hawaii Private Lodging
Nestled in the quaint town of Pupukea, Kalani Hawaii Private Lodging provides a serene escape on the North Shore. These air-conditioned units offer fully equipped kitchens, cozy seating areas with flat-screen TVs and DVD players, and free WiFi throughout the property.
Guests can take advantage of the on-site water sports equipment storage and bike storage, making it easy to explore nearby attractions like the famous Banzai Pipeline and the legendary Sunset Beach surf spot.
With its tranquil setting and convenient amenities, Kalani Hawaii Private Lodging offers a perfect home base for those seeking a relaxed and authentic North Shore experience, while still being within easy reach of the area’s top attractions and outdoor activities.
Visitors can spend their day trips hiking picturesque trails, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, or simply soaking up the laid-back island vibe that defines the North Shore.
5. Kuilima Estates
Found on the picturesque grounds of Turtle Bay Resort, Kuilima Estates offers a serene and luxurious escape alongside an 18-hole golf course. These privately owned 1 to 2-bedroom condominiums provide ample space for families or groups, accommodating up to 6 people in stylish and well-appointed accommodations.
Guests can enjoy access to amenities like a tennis court and a pool, while being just a short stroll away from the resort’s various restaurants, offering a range of dining options without ever leaving the premises.
With breathtaking views of the golf course and the majestic mountains that frame the North Shore, Kuilima Estates provides a tranquil and rejuvenating haven for those seeking a more residential-style retreat in a quintessential Hawaiian setting.
Just bear in mind that since the apartments are privately owned, you’ll need to check Airbnb and similar booking platforms to spot their listings.
6. Owen’s Retreat
Owen’s Retreat, a long-standing institution on the North Shore since the 1950s, offers a truly unique and authentic Hawaiian experience.
Situated on a beautiful beachfront property in the tranquil town of Mokuleia, this retreat features individual bungalows ranging from cozy studios to spacious 4-bedroom units, each equipped with a full kitchen and bathroom.
Guests at Owen’s Retreat can immerse themselves in the laid-back island lifestyle, waking up to the gentle sounds of the waves and spending their days lounging on the powdery white sand or exploring the nearby hiking trails and secluded coves.
With its rich history, prime beachfront location, and authentic Hawaiian ambiance, Owen’s Retreat provides a truly memorable and rejuvenating escape from the stresses of daily life, allowing visitors to connect with the natural beauty and rich traditions of the North Shore.
7. North Shore Campgrounds
For adventurous souls seeking an immersive and authentic outdoor experience, the North Shore campgrounds at Kaiaka Bay Beach Park and Malaekahana Beach offer a unique and unforgettable way to connect with the island’s natural beauty.
- Malaekahana Beach Campground, located near the prestigious Turtle Bay Resort, offers a more secluded and tranquil camping experience. In addition to tent camping sites, this campground also features charming accommodation options for rent, providing a rustic yet comfortable accommodation option. Surrounded by lush landscapes and the gentle sounds of the ocean, Malaekahana Beach Campground is a nature lover’s paradise, offering a chance to truly disconnect and reconnect with the great outdoors.
- Kaiaka Bay Beach Park, just a short 5-minute drive from the charming town of Haleiwa, allows for up to 5-day camping stays with a maximum of 10 people per camping permit. Nestled in a picturesque cove with crystal-clear waters and swaying trees, this campground offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, while still being within easy reach of the area’s attractions and amenities. Campers can spend their days swimming, snorkeling, or simply lounging on the beach, surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of the North Shore.
Both campgrounds provide opportunities for hiking, exploring tide pools, and observing the diverse array of marine life and wildlife that call the North Shore home. Campers can spend their evenings gathered around a campfire, stargazing, and sharing stories, creating lasting memories in this Hawaiian paradise.
Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a first-time outdoor enthusiast, the North Shore campgrounds provide a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life and connect with the beauty and serenity of Hawaii’s natural landscapes.
8. Backpackers Vacation Inn & Hostel
For budget-conscious travelers seeking an affordable and laid-back North Shore experience, Backpackers Vacation Inn & Hostel is an ideal choice.
This hostel offers a variety of accommodations, ranging from dorm beds to private studios and entire cabins, catering to various needs and group sizes.
Its prime location near the beach, famous surf spots, and the Foodland supermarket makes it a convenient base for exploring the North Shore’s natural wonders and iconic surf culture.
Backpackers Vacation Inn & Hostel provides a social atmosphere where travelers can meet like-minded adventurers, swap stories, and immerse themselves in the vibrant surf community that defines the North Shore.
With its affordable rates, laidback vibe, and prime location, this hostel is a fantastic option for those seeking an authentic and budget-friendly North Shore experience.
9. Ke Iki Beach Bungalows
Ke Iki Beach Bungalows is a true gem on the North Shore, offering a unique and immersive beachfront vacation experience. These charming bungalows range from cozy studios perfect for romantic getaways to spacious 1 and 2-bedroom units that can accommodate larger groups or families of up to 10 people.
Guests can enjoy complimentary yoga classes on an outdoor covered deck, surrounded by lush tropical vegetation and the soothing sounds of the ocean, providing a serene and rejuvenating start to each day.
Conveniently located just steps from Foodland supermarket and the renowned Shark’s Cove, Ke Iki Beach Bungalows offers easy access to all the amenities and natural wonders the North Shore has to offer.
Visitors can spend their days snorkeling or stand-up paddleboarding in the crystal-clear waters of Shark’s Cove or simply lounging on the property’s pristine stretch of beach.
Additionally, the property’s beautiful lawns and spacious patios provide an idyllic venue for hosting intimate weddings and special events, creating lasting memories with the backdrop of Oahu’s legendary North Shore.
With its charm, convenience, and unbeatable location, Ke Iki Beach Bungalows is a true oasis for those seeking a quintessential Hawaiian beach vacation.
Wrapping Up
The North Shore of Oahu is a true paradise that offers something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re seeking luxury and pampering at a world-class resort, a laid-back beach bungalow experience, an affordable hostel stay, or an adventurous camping excursion, this region has it all.
From the sprawling amenities and stunning oceanfront accommodations of Turtle Bay Resort to charming beachfront retreats like Ke Iki Beach Bungalows and Owen’s Retreat, the North Shore provides a range of accommodation styles to suit any preference or budget.
For those looking to truly immerse themselves in the great outdoors, the scenic campgrounds at Kaiaka Bay Beach Park and Malaekahana Beach offer a chance to connect with nature and experience the island’s raw beauty.
No matter where you choose to stay, the North Shore promises an unforgettable Hawaiian experience. Spend your days exploring legendary surf breaks, hiking through lush landscapes, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, or simply soaking up the laid-back island vibe that defines this region.
