According to a recent trend report from Hilton, 2025 will be the year of the travel maximizer, with travelers seeking to make every moment count.
For those seeking to maximize their winter getaway, Oahu is an exceptional destination. Oahu offers up unparalleled experiences that cater to families, couples, and adventure enthusiasts alike, making it a versatile choice for any traveler. Here’s why:
For Families
- Kid-Friendly Beaches: Calm waters at beaches like Kailua Beach and Waikiki Beach are perfect for young swimmers.
- Educational Experiences: Visit Pearl Harbor, the Bishop Museum, or the Waikiki Aquarium to combine fun with learning.
- Outdoor Fun: Family hikes like the Diamond Head Crater trail or a visit to Waimea Valley (complete with an easy walk to a waterfall) provide safe adventures for all ages.
- Cultural Activities: Enjoy interactive experiences at the Polynesian Cultural Center or attend a family-friendly luau to learn about Hawaiian traditions.
For Couples
Romantic Beaches: Explore secluded stretches like Lanikai Beach or enjoy sunset strolls on Waimanalo Beach.
- Luxurious Resorts and Spas: Unwind with couples’ treatments at Four Seasons Oahu or relax in the romantic ambiance of boutique hotels.
- Culinary Delights: Share gourmet meals, fresh seafood, and cocktails at fine dining establishments overlooking the ocean.
- Special Moments: Take a sunset dinner cruise or hike Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail for breathtaking panoramic views together.
For Adventure Seekers
- Water Sports: Dive into world-class surfing on the North Shore, snorkel at Hanauma Bay, or try paddleboarding at Ala Moana Beach Park.
- Thrilling Hikes: Tackle challenging trails like Koko Head Stairs or Crouching Lion, both offering stunning views and adrenaline-pumping climbs.
- Unique Experiences: Skydive over Oahu’s coastline, swim with sharks on a cage-free excursion, or take a helicopter tour for a bird’s-eye view of the island.
- Diverse Ecosystems: Explore the underwater world through scuba diving or discover hidden waterfalls in lush valleys like Manoa Falls.
Where to stay
For maximizing time away from the kids
Head to the newly opened Romer House Waikiki, Oahu’s first and only adults-only retreat, featuring nightly happenings (think DJ sets and in-house tarot readings), a spirited dining concept IZAKAYA 855-ALOHA and a pool retreat for social relaxation.
For maximizing pool time
Check out Romer Waikiki at the Ambassador, the sister property to Romer House, and its retro-chic, sun-drenched Waikiki Swim & Social Club. The boutique property recently unveiled Favorite Son, a new “deli-meet-diner” neighborhood eatery.
For maximizing Waikiki’s waves
The Twin Fin Hotel offers an epic experiential surf school helmed by nine-time Pipeline champion Jamie O’Brien. The hotel’s new Surf & Stay Package includes lessons, daily surfboard rental, and late checkout for guests looking to level up their skills.
For maximizing PTO with R&R
Try Renaissance Honolulu, where wellness takes center stage. The new property offers a full-service spa, meditation gardens, fitness center, outdoor strength training experience and lap pool, plus Oahu’s first traditional Japanese ofuro soaking tubs. Spa Nami offers a range of treatments, Himalayan salt saunas and cold plunge baths.
For maximizing culinary adventures
The oceanfront ‘Alohilani Resort has become known as a must-visit foodie destination with two dining concepts from Iron Chef Morimoto and La Bettola Waikiki from award-winning Chef Tsutomu Ochiai. Savor island-inspired dishes at SWELL, the resort’s Instagram-worthy rooftop pool deck.
For maximizing time in Hawaii
Island-hop to Maui to stay at the recently reopened Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows. The 27-acre oceanfront property on the world-renowned Ka’anapali Beach offers reimagined oceanfront bungalows, a refreshed lobby and pool area, two new dining venues and a new entertainment venue, The Branches.
Oahu Works for Everyone
Oahu seamlessly combines relaxation, adventure, and cultural enrichment. Families will love its safety and accessibility, couples will appreciate the romance and luxury, and thrill-seekers will find no shortage of activities to get their hearts racing. Its unique ability to cater to diverse travel styles makes Oahu a top destination for all.