Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Though the island of Oahu is not the biggest in the Hawaiian chain, it offers the widest variety
of accommodations. Should you stay in near-palatial surroundings where kings, heads of
state, billionaires, and rock stars have spent the night, or in a quaint bed-and-breakfast on the
North Shore where the rolling surf lulls you to sleep? Should you choose the bright lights and
action of Waikiki or the quiet comforts of Kahala? Oahu has the perfect place for everyone.
The major
high season
is mid-December to March. At this time of year, rooms are always
booked and rates are at the top end. Secondary high season is June to September, when rates
are expensive, but bookings are somewhat easier. The
lowseason,
with fewer tourists, cheap-
er rates, and possible “deals” on rooms is April to June and September to mid-December.
Be sure to factor in Oahu's 17.5% tax, and don't forget about parking charges—which aver-
age around $25 a day in Waikiki.
WAIKIKI
Some five million tourists visit Oahu every year, and 9 out of 10 of them choose accommod-
ations in Waikiki, a 500-acre beachfront neighborhood of Honolulu. Here's where you'll find
all the action—from fast food to fine dining, nightlife including everything from the sweet
sounds of Hawaiian melodies to spicy dance music, shopping from bargains to brand names,
and every ocean activity you can imagine. Staying here puts you in the heart of it all, but be
aware that Waikiki is an on-the-go city with crowds, traffic, noise, and its fair share of crime.
