Where To Stay On The North Shore Of Oahu: The Complete Guide

The North Shore offers some of the best beach towns in the world. Chill vibes, surf, and sunsets are guaranteed. Part of its charm is that resorts are few and far between. That said, it can be difficult to know where to stay on the North Shore of Oahu. Luckily, I’ve compiled this comprehensive list of the best places to stay on the North Shore of Oahu.

My personal favorites are Turtle Bay for its amenities and Owen’s Retreat for its beach location.

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Where to Stay on The North Shore of Oahu

For those wondering where to stay on The North Shore of Oahu, look no further. After spending my college years on the island, and repeatedly returning to stay in hostels, hotels, and resorts, I’ve learned what to look for in Oahu accommodations. From the Ritz Carlton Ocean Bungalows to the best surf hostels by the beach, these are the best places to stay on Oahu’s North Shore.

QUICK PICKS: 3 BEST PLACES TO STAY ON NORTH SHORE OAHU

Wondering where to stay on the North Shore of Oahu? These are the three best options.

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Turtle Bay Resort

Ocean Bungalows
North Shore Location
Great for Families

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Best Overwater Bungalows in Hawaii Turtle Bay

Owen’s Retreat

Beachfront Rooms
Secluded Beach
Full Kitchens

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Where to Stay North Shore Oahu Owen's Retreat

Kalani Hawaii

Good Value
Sunset Beach Location
Warm Hospitality

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NORTH SHORE ACCOMMODATION COMPARISON TABLE

If you’re wondering where to stay on the North Shore of Oahu, you’ll find the best options below, along with current rates. The prices are listed per night for two guests at the hotels, and one guest at the hostels. These rates reflect the cost for the most basic room category during the high season, and are subject to change.

ACCOMMODATION	Price
Ritz-Carlton Turtle Bay	$1,100
Owen’s Retreat	$670
Beach Studio by Shark’s Cove	$450
Courtyard Marriot North Shore	$430
Kalani Hawaii Private Lodging	$117
North Shore Garden Suite	$310
North Shore Glamping	$230
Backpackers Vacation Inn	$55

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Where to Stay on North Shore Oahu: Local Tips

The North Shore is one of my favorite places in the world. In the summer you have pristine beaches, world-class snorkeling, turtles, and surf-town vibes. In the winter, you have one of the best surf destinations in the world with competitions like Pipeline and The Eddie. In my opinion, it’s the best place to stay on Oahu for surfers, beach lovers, and backpackers.

Just keep in mind that the winter waves are often too big if you’re looking to build sand castles and frolic in the waves with children. That said, you can still find some protected areas in the winter.

Families: In the summer, the North Shore is perfect for family beach days. Waimea Beach is my favorite beach on Oahu, with crystal clear waters, turtles, snorkeling through sea caves, and cliff jumping. The North Shore’s food trucks (with famous garlic shrimp, poke, and shaved ice) are family favorites. The vibe is also very relaxed compared to Waikiki.
Couples: The North Shore is full of beautiful, quiet beaches, which make for incredibly romantic sunsets. One of the most romantic resorts on the island, Turtle Bay is located here, and it’s a favorite amongst honeymooners. There are also secluded hiking trails, bike paths, and fewer crowds, ideal for couples.
Surfers: The North Shore is a surfer’s paradise. The winter swell brings big waves and big competition, with surf contests like Pipeline and the Eddie bringing in the best surfers in the world. The surf-town vibes are great all year round, with budget accommodations available throughout the area.

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Pros of Staying on the North Shore of Oahu

Incredible winter surfing
Cool laidback vibes and much quieter than Waikiki
Great snorkeling and beaches in the summer
Delicious food trucks
A few nice hikes in the area like the short Peace Hike

Cons of Staying on the North Shore of Oahu

1-hour drive to Waikiki
Winter waves are too big for families/swimming
Fewer convenience stores and hotel options
Random “turtle traffic” caused by tourists crossing the road

Things to do on the North Shore of Oahu

Surf
Watch the Pipeline Pro in January
Explore waterfalls and hiking
Go Shark Diving
Take a Gyroplane Flight
Go Skydiving
Watch the sunset at Sunset Beach
Snorkel with Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles
Waterfall hikes
Visit the Polynesian Cultural Center

Best Places to Stay on North Shore Oahu: Hotels

These are the best places to stay on North Shore Oahu. Given its gorgeous beaches, world-class surf and snorkeling, and small-town feel, it’s the perfect beach destination in Hawaii.

The Ritz-Carlton Oahu Turtle Bay

Ritz-Carlton Turtle Bay (Luxury): Formerly known as Turtle Bay Resort, the Ritz-Carlton Oahu is one of the best places to stay on the North Shore of Oahu. While pricey, the rooms at The Ritz offer sea views, premium amenities, and access to the extensive facilities at Turtle Bay. For the best experience, I recommend booking Club Level rooms, which offer additional perks and privileges.

Why I recommend this hotel: Turtle Bay is a sort of Disney Land for adults (and families). Everything is taken care of from the moment you arrive, with incredible dining, unique excursions, and oceanfront accommodations bundled into one. The beach also offers a sheltered and safe swimming area for kids. Activities like surf lessons, horseback riding, and golf are available to book as well. It’s the best luxury family resort on Oahu’s North Shore.

Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Turtle Bay Resort