Hawaii and especially Oahu are known for some of the nicest accommodations in the world for vacationers. There are many price ranges, quality levels, and configurations available. The Waikiki beach area has 90-percent of the hotel rooms in Hawaii. It's ideally located to take a Pearl Harbor tour, visit Diamond, enjoy Honolulu's shopping and dining, and walk along Waikiki Beach. For many people, it's the perfect spot to stay, but if you're interested in something different, don't overlook your other options. They include the North Shore, Central Oahu, the East, and Waianae (the island's leeward side).

For everyone choosing to stay in Waikiki, you'll be in a beach section of the larger community of Honolulu, which is a busy metropolitan city. You'll find the expected dining, entertainment, and beach options you'd find in similar resort areas. But if you're looking for more of an outdoor experience, you'll discover those elsewhere in Oahu. If you're accustomed to being in cities with people and traffic, Waikiki may be an ideal fit for you. You'll also have a choice of major hotels with high-rise buildings and the accompanying views. The guest accommodations in more remote areas are smaller, quieter properties.

The North Shore of Oahu is a spot that gains in popularity each year. Its accommodation options range from cottages and single-family home rentals to bed and breakfasts and guest houses. You'll be near the scenic coastline, which is equally beautiful from Haleiwa to Turtle Bay. The area is famous for its adventure boat tours (see whales, sharks; ride big waves). If you have teenagers who yawn at the mention of sightseeing, you'll change those opinions with an ocean adventure tour. You'll also find homes to rent on the windward eastern side of Oahu, including Kaneohe and Kailua, which are quieter.

Nearly everyone begins with a stay in or near Honolulu on their first time visiting Hawaii, and then some branch out on subsequent trips to Oahu. It's fun to experience the city and see the most famous sights on your first Hawaiian vacation. The chances are that you'll be so impressed with the fun that you have that you'll want to return to do more. You can keep things simple sitting in the sub near a pool or on the beach or go for something far more adventurous like shark cage diving. It all depends on your interests and energy level. But regardless of what you enjoy the most, you'll find many things to enjoy in Oahu.