West Oahu as an alternative to Waikiki?

Question

My wife and I (mid 60s) are making our first trip to Hawaii in April, visiting the four main islands over the course of 28 days. We haven't as yet booked anything in Oahu, indeed we hadn't originally even planned to visit the island, but ultimately decided tack on a few days to the trip to round out our Hawaiian experience.

We're not big fans of urban, high-rise beach types of vacations--in fact, it's the exact opposite of what we would usually strive for in a vacation, so the whole Waikiki thing is sort of a turn off. I know vacation rentals are very restricted in Oahu, but I came across one that seemed kind of intriguing and would love to get input from the community.

The rental is in a property called Hawaiian Princess at Makaha Beach located in Waianae on the west side of Oahu. It seems to have everything we would want including outstanding views of a what appears to be a nice, quiet beach that seems much more our style than crowded city beaches.

Is anyone familiar with this property? Would this be a legal rental, how would I know?

Is anyone familar with Makaha Beach--is it considered a safe swimming beach?

I've read that the west side of Oahu has a reputation of being kind of less hospitable to tourists-- is this true or kind of exaggerated?

I've also read that there concerns with higher crime rates, car break ins, homeless encampments, etc. in this part of Oahu--again are these concerns overblown or something that should give one pause before deciding to spend a few days in the area? It appears that the resort does have some type of security.

Anyways, would love to get opinions either on this specific property, Makaha beach, or west Oahu in general. Thanks!

Answer

It sounds like you're planning an exciting trip, and I totally understand wanting to avoid the bustling, high-rise vibe of Waikiki for a more peaceful, laid-back experience. The West Oahu area, particularly Makaha Beach, offers a nice alternative to the crowded tourist areas. Here’s some insight into the Hawaiian Princess at Makaha Beach and the area in general:

Hawaiian Princess at Makaha Beach:

Many travelers find the Hawaiian Princess resort to be an excellent choice for those seeking a quiet, beautiful location away from the tourist-heavy areas like Waikiki. The property is known for its stunning oceanfront views and a relatively tranquil atmosphere. The beach is generally much less crowded, which aligns with what you're looking for in terms of relaxation and avoiding the "city beach" feel. As for whether this is a legal vacation rental, the best way to confirm this is by checking if the listing includes a Transient Accommodation Registration Number (also known as a TA or TVR number), which is required by law for legal short-term rentals in Hawaii. If you're unsure, you can also check with the Hawaii Department of Planning and Permitting to verify the status of the rental property.

Makaha Beach:

Makaha Beach is generally considered a safe beach for swimming, but it’s important to know that it can have strong currents and waves, especially during the winter months. The beach is popular with local surfers and swimmers, but it’s not typically known as a beginner-friendly swimming beach. Depending on your comfort level and the conditions during your visit, you might want to exercise caution. If you're not confident in the water, it might be best to swim in calmer, more sheltered beaches nearby, like those in Waikiki or Kailua.

West Oahu Reputation:

The west side of Oahu does have a different vibe compared to the south and east sides. It's more laid-back, less touristy, and more residential. Some people describe it as less hospitable to tourists, but I would say that it’s more about a difference in atmosphere rather than anything negative. The local community on the west side is more isolated, and you'll experience a quieter, more “authentic” Oahu compared to the busy city feel of Honolulu. If you're looking for peace and quiet, this area definitely delivers.

Safety Concerns:

Like any destination, the safety concerns in the Waianae area can vary. There have been reports of higher crime rates in certain parts of Oahu, including car break-ins, especially in areas that are less frequented by tourists. However, these incidents tend to be more common in certain parts of the island that are farther from the main tourist areas, and tourists can generally stay safe by being mindful of their surroundings. If you're renting a car, it's always a good idea to lock it and avoid leaving valuables inside. That being said, Makaha and the Hawaiian Princess resort area itself tend to be relatively safe, especially with the security measures the property has in place.

Safety Tip: If you’re concerned about safety, try not to leave any valuables in your car, and consider using a hotel safe or other secure storage options if available.
Local Feel: Many guests find the west side to be a refreshing break from the more tourist-heavy areas. It’s a place where you can enjoy nature, quiet beaches, and a more local, laid-back vibe.

General Thoughts on West Oahu:

Overall, West Oahu, including Makaha, is a great choice for those looking to escape the crowds of Waikiki. You’ll experience stunning beaches, an authentic Hawaiian atmosphere, and easy access to nature. While there are safety concerns in some areas, with common precautions, you’ll likely have a great time. The resort is a nice balance of comfort and privacy, so you can enjoy the views and tranquility of the area. Plus, you’re still within driving distance of the famous spots on the island, should you want to venture out.

In Conclusion:

If the idea of a quiet, more secluded experience appeals to you, then staying at the Hawaiian Princess at Makaha Beach is a solid choice. Just keep in mind that it’s a bit more remote, so if you enjoy being near a lot of restaurants, shops, or nightlife, you might need to plan some longer drives. That said, if you’re looking to enjoy the natural beauty of Oahu with fewer crowds, it’s a perfect spot!

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