And you won't be able to visit Oahu without wandering into an ABC discount store. Out and about The easiest way to get around Oahu is with a rental car. Roads are generally good, with the island bizarrely boasting an interstate highway, and rates are very competitive, especially at the airport. However, if you can't tell your makai from your mauka and don't relish tackling Honolulu's horrendous rush-hour traffic and windy coastal roads on your own, there's a very efficient bus system, called TheBus, which pretty much covers the island. The 12-storey hostel is in a prime position at the heart of all the action and just a couple of minutes' walk from the sea.
All rooms have private bath, TV, air-con and balcony.
A real bargain. This old colonial hotel, which sits bang next door to Waikiki's main beach, is an airy haven of sophistication. And nowhere on Oahu is more than an hour's drive away from Waikiki. However, if you'd like to wake up next to Hawaii's biggest breakers, there are several low-key accommodation options in the North Shore towns of Waimea and Haleiwa.