Honolulu is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the world. This is the largest city in Hawaii, packed with resorts, tours, surfing, and a thriving arts and culture scene. It’s where many people begin their exploration of the Hawaiian Islands and has even been referred to as the center of the Hawaiian universe! As you plan your trip, here are the best Honolulu hotels and resorts to choose from.
Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort
Hilton is a popular hotel name all around the world, but Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort is one of the best Waikiki Beach hotels. The Ali’I and the Rainbow are the two towers here with oceanside guest rooms, suites, and luxury condos. This is a village-style resort on 22 acres of oceanfront with five pools, multiple restaurants and bars, the Mandara Spa, and exotic wildlife in the gardens and ponds. There’s even a children’s program to keep the kids entertained and lots of daily activities that get you involved in everything from hula dancing lessons to exercise classes in the mornings.
Halekulani Hotel
For a serene and comfortable stay in Honolulu, consider staying at the Halekulani Hotel, a five-star hotel on the beach. Packages you can splurge on include the ocean view upgrade, sunrise breakfast, spa package, romance package, and family plan. Stay in one of the rooms with balconies that feature ocean views, or upgrade to a suite for a large living room. In addition to multiple restaurants and bars, the hotel has a heated outdoor pool and lavish spa. This is a popular spot for weddings and special events as well.
Lotus Honolulu at Diamond Head
To experience a different side of Honolulu, the Lotus Honolulu at Diamond Head offers a more tucked-away stay outside the main stretch of Kalakaua Avenue. This is a boutique hotel that lets you find your own personal Zen, and it’s conveniently located between Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head. Rooms features spectacular ocean or Diamond Head views, while the hotel boasts an array of thoughtful amenities like free parking and wine tastings. Don’t forget to dine at the award-winning on-site restaurant.
The Kahala Hotel & Resort
The Kahala Hotel & Resort is a popular hotel in Honolulu for couples that’s about 10 minutes from Waikiki Beach. It’s been open to guests since 1964 and regularly hosted world leaders and celebrities. You can choose a room with a view of the mountains or the ocean, and popular experiences here are the spa, sailing tours, kids club, pool, fitness center, and shopping gallery. Executive Chef Wayne Hirabayashi is in charge of onsite cuisine at the resort, which you can try for yourself at the seafood buffets, wine tasting events, ethnic fusion fare, casual beachside fare, afternoon tea, or Italian favorites.
The Royal Hawaiian, A Luxury Collection Resort
The Royal Hawaiian, A Luxury Collection Resort is a historic hotel that was opened in 1927 and is very connected to local culture. It is known as the Pink Palace of the Pacific and has rooms in the Lani Tower and in the historic building. The spa is a sanctuary for pampering, while the on-site bakery offers famous banana bread and freshly-baked desserts, the Mai Tai Bar serves beachfront cocktails, the Azure Restaurant features fresh seafood, and Aha’Aina offers a true celebration of Hawaiian culture through food, song, and hula.
Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa
Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa, Waikiki Beach is a great place to stay in Honolulu. This hotel balances Victorian elegance and modern charm in an oceanfront setting. There are beachfront rooms and suites here, as well as on-site cultural activities every day, cabana rentals at the outdoor pool, a spa, fitness center, beach house, and historical tours. It’s also within walking distance of Honolulu’s most popular shopping, dining, and entertainment attractions.
Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort
Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort is a friendly resort that displays Polynesian art and embraces the relaxing spirit of the islands. There are spacious rooms and suites here that have all the comforts of home and many rooms with ocean views. The Kani Ka Pila Grille is the onsite restaurant, there’s a Starbucks coffee here, and also lots of shops to browse. Kick back and enjoy some slack-key guitar music and a Mai Tai!
The Surjack Hotel & Swim Club
As the name suggests, Surfjack is all about surf culture and being a meeting ground for adventurers and travelers. There’s a swim club with open-air movie premiers and amazing cocktails. Mahina & Suns is an onsite eatery that’s hip, casual, and features organic ingredients. Artwork on display has been sourced from local artists, and Hawaiian hospitality gets a little less stuffy when you stay in one of these vintage-inspired rooms.
Coconut Waikiki Hotel
Coconut Waikiki Hotel is a boutique hotel that’s family-friendly with bright rooms. Waikiki Beach is just steps away, and you can see the Ala Wai Mountains from the rooms. Hang out on the outdoor patio, relax in the spacious lobby, or take a dip in the outdoor heated pool. You can wake up to a daily complimentary breakfast. Land and water adventures can be booked through the hotel, and there is a kids’ package for little travelers coming to Honolulu as well.
The Equus Hotel
Located on Honolulu’s upper west side, the Equus is a boutique hotel in Honolulu with easy access to large shopping malls, restaurants, and the beach. It’s on a 100-acre stretch of beautiful beachfront on Oahu’s north shore and home to the Hawaii Polo Club. Its connection to polo and horses is what makes the Equus Hotel truly unique. Therefore, trail rides are available to hotel guests and you may even be able to watch a polo match. Guests can enjoy a pool, picnic tables, a weekly wine reception, and free Wi-Fi.
The Modern Honolulu
The Modern Honolulu is a boutique hotel and a full-service lifestyle hotel that is highly rated. It’s a top pick for urban travelers who plan to mix business with pleasure. The Modern Honolulu overlooks Ala Wai harbor, making your stay the perfect launching point for water adventures. Why not catch a surfing lesson from an expert surfer and learn how to hang ten?
