Where to Stay in Central Oahu
Central Oahu has the distinction for containing numerous bedroom communities in Oahu. It is also an area of plantations, from sugar to bananas to the famous Hawaiian pineapples. One may not find the same kind of accommodations here as one would find in the bustling cities of Waikiki or in the upscale resorts of the North Shore, but Central Oahu also has its share of small country inns and bed and breakfasts for those who like their accommodations small and homey. Below is a list of accommodation options you can choose from when staying in Central Oahu.
Rainbow Inn
This is a quaint little inn overlooking Pearl Harbor and is only a single unit apartment with its own private kitchen and bath. The inn features fantastic sunrises, a panoramic vista overlooking the harbor, and the chance to witness magnificent sunsets day after day. The well-stocked kitchen makes the Rainbow Inn the perfect choice for guests who prefer whipping up their own late breakfasts or late night snacks on their own. The inn also enjoys a suitable location within easy access to shopping centers and restaurants. It is also just a few minutes away from the main attractions in Central Oahu, the war memorials of Pearl Harbor, and just ten minutes from the airport. Guests can the visit nearby memorials like the USS Arizona memorial, or take a short drive to the pristine beaches of Oahu or the North shore. The inn also features off-street parking and beach supplies.
Pearl on the Ridge Vacation Rental
The Pearl on the Ridge vacation rental is a vacation home that enjoys a spectacular view of Pearl Harbor and the city. This stylish property has its own pool and private garden and its recent renovation in 2007 landed the house on the pages of the Hawaii Home and Remodeling Magazine of 2008. It comes with all the amenities you will need for a good stay. Located a good distance from the noise and traffic of the more populated part of the island, this little slice of paradise is only 10 minutes from the airport and 20 minutes from Waikiki and Diamond Crater.
Pearl Harbor Condominiums
For those who want to stay in more modern digs, they can choose to stay at the Pearl Harbor Condominiums which are located over at Pearl Harbor Central over in Central Oahu and just 15 minutes from the international airport.
The units come with one bath and one bedrooms and enjoy a prime spot right just across the street from one of the busiest commercial centers in Central Oahu. It is also only minutes from Pearl Harbor and other military memorials. The beaches of Wakele, North Shore, and Ko Olina are also just a few minute by car away.
The Pearl Harbor Condominiums feature fully-appointed rooms done in tasteful Hawaiian interior design, with free parking for those taking rentals. This gated community also has its own tennis and basketball court.
Pacific Marina Inn
Near the airport, this is a convenient accommodation option if you plan to spend a day sightseeing in Central Oahu. Located near the Pearl Harbor, the Pacific Marina Inn is perfect if you plan to spend the day at the Pearl Harbor and get a good night's sleep before hitting the airport afterwards.
Nimitz Shower Tree Mini-Hotel
Another place that's perfect for a quick stop-over when in Central Oahu is the Nimitz Shower Tree Mini-Hotel. This is actually a place for those who wish to just stay in the place for a night and have a quick shower. Aside from clean rooms and bathrooms, this is just near the airport.
Best Western The Plaza Hotel
This is another accommodation option when in Central Oahu. Also near the airport, this not-so-fancy hotel makes up for its friendly staff and cozy and comfortable rooms. Rates are also very affordable, making them the perfect option for those on a budget.
Ohana Honolulu Airport Hotel
For a quick stop-over from the airport, the Ohana Honolulu Airport Hotel is the right accommodation for you. Its cozy rooms are equipped with Internet connection, microwave, and fridge. Free breakfasts are also offered, making this the perfect getaway when going to Central Oahu.
Camping
Camping is a great option for those who want to rough it out and those who want to save on accommodations while staying in Central Oahu. You can stay at the Keaiwa Heiau State Recreation Area which sits at the southern end of Central Oahu. This is the perfect place for those who like to camp and hike because it enjoys a prime location just above Halawa Heights. This is a 385-acre wooded park that boasts of eucalyptus, ironwood, and Norfolk pines. The park also enjoys a place in history as the site for a temple used in the healing of the sick in the past. Visitors will also get to see samples of Hawaiian medicinal plants as well as enjoy the whole view of Pearl Harbor below. The camping grounds are divided between flat, grassy areas and sloping grounds shaded by tall shady trees. Despite the fact that there are no other accommodations apart from camping grounds, the area comes equipped with picnic areas, a restroom with cold showers, a dishwashing area, and a public phone. Interested campers need to book a slot in the campground 30 days before the date by contacting the Department of Land and Natural Resources. Permits are given out for 5-day stays only. The campgrounds are open to campers from Friday through Tuesday nights.
When planning to camp out, don't forget the essentials such as camping gear, sleeping bags, and tents. Make sure to follow rules and regulations when camping at the Keaiwa Heiau State Recreation Area. Never leave trash behind and be aware of the environmental impact campers have on the area.
Other accommodation options in Oahu
Aside from these options, you can also find more choices outside of Central Oahu. Waikiki and the North Shore are only two of the areas in the island that are dotted with condos and beach front vacation rentals. For starters, you can choose to stay anywhere from the Resortquest Waikiki Beach Tower, the Sheraton Princess Kaiulani, the Turtle Bay Beach Resort, or the Lotus at Diamond Head. Resorts and hotels here are only 20 minutes away from Central Oahu, which make them the perfect places to stay for those who want to visit Central Oahu but prefer to stay somewhere else.
Resort Quest Waikiki Beach Tower is the perfect place for those who want to stay right in the hustle of Waikiki, which is only a few minutes from Central Oahu. The hotel is known for its Indonesian furniture and colorful Asian throws and headboards. Guests can expect a sumptuous breakfast of American and Asian dishes every morning while enjoying the dining room’s distinctly Hawaiian architecture. Health-conscious guests can also make use of the hotel gym. The hotel is also a step away from nearby restaurants such as Tiki’s Grill and Bar which serves some of the best steaks and cocktails and is famous for its 30-foot volcano centerpiece. The resort is large, with over 700 rooms and most of them with personal lanais that overlook the ocean.
The Turtle Bay Resort is located in Kuilima, which is about 38 miles from the hotel. The resort is known for being secluded and for having one of the most beautiful private beach coves in the island, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Guests can enjoy a game of golf at any of the resort's two championship golf courses before they go for a few hours of pampering at the resort spa.
CENTRAL OAHU