Best hotels and places to stay in Honolulu
Why visit?
Honolulu is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, rich cultural heritage, and numerous outdoor activities. The city offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels and resorts to affordable hostels, making it a perfect destination for all types of travelers. Whether youre looking for a relaxing beach vacation, exciting water sports, or exploring local Hawaiian culture, Honolulu has something for everyone.
Where to stay?
Waikiki Beach: Waikiki is the most famous and iconic neighborhood in Honolulu. It offers a wide range of hotels from budget-friendly to luxurious. Situated right on the beach, Waikiki is perfect for beach lovers and those who want to be in the heart of the action. There are numerous beachfront hotels, resorts, and hostels in Waikiki, offering stunning ocean views and easy access to popular attractions, shopping centers, and restaurants.
Ala Moana: Located just west of Waikiki, Ala Moana is another great area to stay in Honolulu. It is known for its upscale shopping centers, including the Ala Moana Center: the largest open-air shopping mall in the United States. This area offers a mix of luxury hotels, beachfront resorts, and more affordable accommodations. Ala Moana Beach Park is also nearby, providing a more relaxed and less crowded beach experience compared to Waikiki.
Diamond Head: For those seeking a more tranquil and residential atmosphere, Diamond Head is a wonderful choice. This upscale neighborhood is located near the famous Diamond Head State Monument, offering breathtaking views and hiking trails. The area features luxury resorts and hotels, many of which boast stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and direct access to beautiful beaches.
What is the price per hotel room per night?
3-star hotels: The average price per night is around $130 to $180.
4-star hotels: The average price per night is around $200 to $300.
5-star hotels: The average price per night is around $350 to $500.
Best value for money:
Aqua Ohia Waikiki: This budget-friendly hotel offers comfortable accommodations and is located just a few minutes walk from the famous Waikiki Beach. The hotel features an outdoor pool, rooftop sun deck, and a restaurant, ensuring a pleasant stay without breaking the bank. The Aqua Ohia Waikiki provides great value for money with its affordable rates, central location, and easy access to the vibrant beachfront area.
Holiday Inn Express Waikiki: Situated in the heart of Waikiki, this hotel offers modern and spacious rooms at a reasonable price. Guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast, an outdoor pool, and a fitness center. The Holiday Inn Express Waikiki is within walking distance to popular shopping centers, restaurants, and attractions, making it a convenient choice for travelers seeking value for money.
Aston Waikiki Circle Hotel: Known for its unique circular design, this hotel offers affordable accommodations right across the street from Waikiki Beach. The rooms feature stunning ocean views, and the hotel provides complimentary beach towels and chairs for guests. With its prime beachfront location and affordable rates, the Aston Waikiki Circle Hotel offers excellent value for money.
Best kids-friendly hotels:
Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort: This expansive resort offers a range of kid-friendly amenities, including a five-acre water park with slides, pools, and a lazy river. Families can also enjoy the on-site daily activities, cultural experiences, and a childrens program. The resort has multiple dining options, including restaurants with menus tailored to kids preferences, ensuring a fun and memorable stay for the whole family.
Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa: Located in the Ko Olina area near Honolulu, this Disney resort is a haven for families. Kids can delight in the many pools, the lazy river, and a large water play area. In addition to character meet-and-greets, the resort offers a variety of activities, from storytelling to hula dancing lessons. Aulani also boasts several dining options and spacious rooms designed with families in mind.
Best hotels for a romantic getaway:
The Kahala Hotel & Resort: Situated on a secluded beach, this luxury hotel offers privacy and tranquility for couples seeking a romantic retreat. The rooms feature ocean views, and the resort has a private lagoon where guests can swim with dolphins. Couples can indulge in massages at the spa, enjoy candlelit dinners at one of the on-site restaurants, or take romantic strolls on the beach.
Halekulani: Known for its impeccable service and elegant atmosphere, Halekulani is perfect for a romantic getaway. The hotel features luxurious rooms with ocean or garden views and offers an array of couples activities, including private dining experiences and spa treatments. Guests can also enjoy sunset cocktails at the iconic House Without a Key, overlooking Waikiki Beach.
Best for location:
Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa: Located right on Waikiki Beach, this historic hotel offers easy access to the beach and stunning ocean views. Guests can relax at the beachfront pool, indulge in spa treatments, and dine at a variety of on-site restaurants. The hotels central location allows for convenient exploration of nearby attractions, shopping centers, and dining options.
Royal Hawaiian: This iconic pink palace is another beachfront hotel in Waikiki. Its prime location offers direct access to the beach and is within walking distance to a range of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. The Royal Hawaiian exudes timeless charm and elegance, providing a luxurious and convenient experience for guests.
The Modern Honolulu: Situated at the gateway of Waikiki, this boutique hotel offers a stylish and contemporary atmosphere. Guests can enjoy the hotels rooftop pool, expansive sunset views, and easy access to Ala Moana Shopping Center. The Modern Honolulu offers a prime location for exploring the nearby beaches and attractions of both Waikiki and downtown Honolulu.
Best for a short city break:
Hotel Renew: This boutique hotel is a hidden gem located just steps away from Waikiki Beach. With its minimalist design and tranquil ambiance, it provides a perfect escape from the bustling city. The hotel offers comfortable and modern rooms, and guests can enjoy complimentary beach amenities such as towels and chairs.
Hyatt Place Waikiki Beach: Situated in the heart of Waikiki, this hotel offers stylish and spacious rooms with all the necessary amenities for a short city break. It features a rooftop pool, complimentary continental breakfast, and a 24/7 fitness center. The hotels central location allows guests to easily explore the vibrant atmosphere of Waikiki and its surrounding areas.
