Known for its turquoise waters, dramatic volcanic landscapes, and year-round tropical climate, Hawaii offers a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and rich Polynesian culture. We’ve handpicked the best hotels in Hawaii based on expert recommendations and thousands of genuine guest reviews. All of our recommended hotels have a review rating of at least 4 out of 5 stars.
Best cheap hotel in Hawaii: Waikiki Central Hotel
Best boutique hotel in Hawaii: The Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club
Best luxury hotel in Hawaii: Four Seasons Resort Hualalai
Best hostel in Hawaii: The Beach Waikiki Boutique Hostel
Best eco-friendly hotel in Hawaii: Volcano Eco Retreat
Sort list by price, rating or by value for money.
The Halekulani Resort, whose name translates to "House Befitting Heaven," is a legendary oasis on the shores of Waikiki Beach. The property’s story began in 1883 with a private residence, later transforming into a hotel in 1917. Its architecture is deeply influenced by the late C.W. Dickey, a master of Hawaii’s "plantation-mansion" style, famous for high-pitched roofs designed to capture cooling trade winds.
Frommers + 6 more“This is one of Waikiki’s most luxurious hotels; its name means ‘house befitting heaven’. Of all the hotels in Waikiki, this one feels the most peaceful, abetted by lovely, personable service. It’s a true escape.”
Featured as Frommer’s Exceptional Choice in Hawaii.
Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, located on the Big Island’s sun-drenched Kona coast, is a stunning masterclass in blending luxury with the natural environment. Designed by Hill Glazier Architects, the resort avoids high-rise structures, instead featuring low-profile, bungalow-style buildings that echo the traditional Hawaiian *kauhale*, or coastal village. This intentional design ensures the property feels integrated into the ancient Ka‘ūpūlehu lava fields rather than imposing upon them.
Fodors + 4 more“Beautiful views everywhere, polished wood floors, custom furnishings and linens in warm earth and cool white tones, and Hawaiian fine artwork make this resort a peaceful retreat. Ground-level rooms have outdoor garden showers.”
Featured as Fodor’s Choice in Hawaii.
The Ritz-Carlton O‘ahu, Turtle Bay, is the only full-service resort on the island's legendary North Shore. Originally opened in 1972 as the Kuilima Resort Hotel, it was famously envisioned by developer Del Webb to be Hawaii’s first casino, though the gaming initiative ultimately failed. Over the decades, the property has been managed by various brands before its recent rebranding under the Ritz-Carlton name.
New York Times + 3 more“The expansive yet laid-back Turtle Bay Resort has tennis courts, pools, horse stables, a spa, and two golf courses, as well as access to a protected swimming beach and several surf breaks right in front of the hotel.”
Featured in New York Times’ 36 Hours in Oahu, Hawaii.
The Royal Hawaiian Hotel, affectionately nicknamed the "Pink Palace of the Pacific," is a true icon of Waikiki Beach. Opened in 1927, this six-story landmark was designed by the New York firm Warren & Wetmore in a striking Spanish-Moorish style. Its signature rosy-pink stucco exterior was inspired by the popularity of screen star Rudolph Valentino and has become a symbol of Hawaiian elegance for nearly a century.
Lonely Planet + 3 more“Waikiki’s original luxury hotel, this pink Spanish-Moorish-style landmark is loaded with vintage opulence, which is kept relevant by continuous subtle upgrades.”
The Kahala Hotel & Resort, which opened in 1964 as the Kahala Hilton, has long been a legendary escape for the world’s elite. Designed by architects Edward Killingsworth, Jules Brady, and Waugh Smith, the property was built with a vision of "timeless luxury." It holds the distinction of being the first major resort in Hawaii to offer air-conditioning in every room, setting a new standard for tropical comfort.
Fodors + 3 more“Hidden away in the upscale residential neighborhood of Kahala, this elegant oceanfront hotel has played host to celebrities, princesses, the Dalai Lama, and nearly every president since Lyndon Johnson as one of Hawaii’s very first luxury resorts.”
Featured as Fodor’s Choice in Hawaii.
Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort is a legendary escape on Hawaii’s Big Island, originally founded in 1965 by Johnno and Helen Jackson. After being closed for years following a 2011 tsunami, the resort was beautifully reimagined and reopened under the Rosewood brand. Architect Greg Warner and interior designer Nicole Hollis led the project, ensuring the design honored the land’s heritage while achieving modern sustainability, including powering the entire property with solar energy.
CN Traveler + 2 more“This property is set on a stunning beach, but the design is fusty; that one has nailed the decor, but the beach is an absolute zoo; another might have the most marvelous staff, but no sense of place.”
Waimea Plantation Cottages on Kauai offers a unique glimpse into Hawaii’s past. Established in 1884, the property began as a sugar plantation and dairy before transforming into a resort in 1984. Many of the 59 cottages are original homes built between the 1880s and 1930s, relocated here after local sugar operations ceased. Each cottage still bears a nameplate honoring the former plantation workers who once lived there, keeping the island’s history front and center.
Fodors + 2 more“History buffs will adore these relocated and refurbished sugar-plantation cottages, which were originally built in the early 1900s. The one- to five-bedroom cottages are tucked among coconut trees along a lovely stretch of coastline.”
Featured as Fodor’s Choice in Kauai, Hawaii.
Perched on a cliffside overlooking the Pacific Ocean on Kauai’s North Shore, The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas has been a luxurious retreat since its opening in 2008. Designed by Design Partners Incorporated, the resort embraces a modern "plantation style," reflecting the historic architectural vernacular of the island while blending seamlessly into the lush 18-acre landscape.
New York Times + 2 more“The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas are superbly set up for families, with stylish units that include fully stocked kitchens and washer/dryers, not to mention kid-friendly ocean-view pools.”
Featured in New York Times’ 36 Hours in Kauai, Hawaii.
The Four Seasons Resort Lana'i is a luxurious cliffside sanctuary perched above the protected marine preserve of Hulopo'e Bay. The island of Lana'i itself has a fascinating history, having once been a massive pineapple plantation that produced nearly 75% of the world's supply. This heritage is still felt today, as the resort leans into the island's secluded, rugged beauty rather than the bustle of more commercialized Hawaiian destinations.
Lonely Planet + 2 more“This resort, the premier destination on Lana‘i, reopened in 2016 after a lavish redesign that saw rooms and public spaces thoroughly revamped, with a minimalist tropical aesthetic. Views of Manele Bay’s azure waters and beach are sublime.”
The Moana Surfrider, famously dubbed the "First Lady of Waikiki," holds the prestigious title of being the very first hotel built on Waikiki Beach. Opened on March 11, 1901, it was designed by architect Oliver G. Traphagen. The original structure, with its colonial-style architecture, Ionic columns, and grand porte-cochere, was a sensation, featuring Hawaii's first electric-powered elevator—which is still in operation today.
CNN + 1 more“Built in 1901, the Moana Surfrider is the oldest hotel in Waikiki. Its beaux-arts architecture makes it the only hotel in Honolulu with the feel of a plantation mansion, complete with rocking chairs on the verandas and staff in historical dress.”
The Kaimana Beach Hotel is a true Waikīkī treasure, sitting directly on the sand of the iconic Gold Coast. Opened in 1963 on the site of a former private residence, the property offers a refreshing escape from the towering high-rises found elsewhere in the city. Its atmosphere is intentionally relaxed, focusing on a connection to the island’s natural beauty rather than the bustle of central Waikīkī.
CNN + 1 more“Situated at the quieter Diamond Head end of Waikiki, The Kaimana Beach Hotel is affordable, new and right on the beach. Service is solid all-around without being flashy.”
The Resort at Kapalua Bay is a stunning oceanfront sanctuary set on 21 acres overlooking one of Hawaii’s most celebrated beaches. Historically, this land was part of the expansive Honolua Ranch, a site once cherished by Hawaiian royalty. Following the era of the original Kapalua Bay Hotel and its subsequent incarnations, the property now stands as a premier destination currently managed by Marriott International, with plans to officially join the prestigious St. Regis brand in 2027.
Lonely Planet + 1 more“Whoa, nice work. Swanky yet inviting, this 24-acre resort, which opened in 2014, takes style and comfort to an utterly pleasing level. The property feels more intimate and less hectic than other resorts across Maui.”
The Mauna Kea Beach Hotel is a legendary destination on Hawaii’s Big Island, famously founded by conservationist Laurance S. Rockefeller in 1965. When it opened, it was the most expensive hotel ever built at a cost of $15 million. Rockefeller envisioned a resort that honored the natural beauty of Kauna‘oa Bay, commissioning the architectural firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill to create a mid-century modern design that seamlessly connects the mountains to the sea.
Frommers + 1 more“It still exudes upscale tranquility with an uncluttered, Asian-inspired aesthetic in spacious, modern rooms, while families relish the even larger lodgings in the Beachfront Wing and a new array of Hawaiian cultural activities.”
Featured as Frommer’s Exceptional Choice in Hawaii.
Wayfinder Waikiki offers a refreshing, design-forward alternative to the typical high-rise resorts of Honolulu. Housed in a mid-century building originally known as the Waikiki Sand Villa, the property underwent an extensive transformation in 2023. It now showcases a "tropical brutalist" aesthetic, where the raw, geometric architecture is softened by lush foliage, vibrant patterns, and custom furnishings inspired by the local landscape.
New York Times“Wayfinder opened a year ago on the relatively quieter side of Waikiki, fronting the Ala Wai canal (but still an easy walk to the beach). Rooms contrast a Brutalist exterior with playful interiors that combine checkered palaka print pillows and shower curtains emblazoned with humuhumunukunukuāpua‘a, the state fish. In addition to rooms in the main building, Wayfinder also has larger studios with bungalow vibes in a three-story walk-up adjacent to the pool.”
The Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club in Waikiki is a stylish, design-forward retreat that celebrates Honolulu’s mid-century heyday. Housed in a 1960s-era building, the property was transformed through a creative collaboration between designers at Studio Collective, Wall-to-Wall Studios, and The Vanguard Theory. It leans heavily into local culture, featuring reclaimed wood, vintage-inspired prints, and work from local artists throughout its 112 rooms.
New York Times“In a quieter zone between the Ala Wai Canal and busy Waikiki, the midcentury design Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club charges $29 a day to each room for access to treats like hotel-branded bicycles, free morning coffee in the lobby and use of a beach tote and towels.”
Featured in New York Times’ 36 Hours in Honolulu.
Paradise Bay Resort, located on Oahu’s tranquil windward coast in Kaneohe, offers a serene alternative to the bustling crowds of Waikiki. Built in 1971, this boutique property is tucked away along the shores of Kaneohe Bay, providing guests with immediate access to one of Hawaii’s most stunning natural environments.
New York Times“Ten miles from Kailua, Paradise Bay Resort overlooks Kaneohe Bay and offers a quiet, residential feel.”
Featured in New York Times’ 36 Hours in Oahu, Hawaii.
The Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort is a historic landmark in its own right, situated on the iconic grounds of the original Outrigger Canoe Club. This beachfront property holds a special place in surf history, as it sits on the very sands where legendary Olympic swimmer and surfer Duke Kahanamoku once shared the joy of surfing with the world.
CNN“Outrigger Waikiki on the Beach is located on the sands of the original Beach Boys Club — this is Hawaiian Olympic and surfing king Duke Kahanamoku’s patch. Rooms have been completely refurbished, including extra soundproofing for honeymooners.”
Recommended by:
Frommers, CNN, New York Times, Forbes, Lonely Planet, Fodors, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Fodors, Lonely Planet, Frommers, Forbes, Telegraph
Recommended by:
New York Times, Frommers, Forbes, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Lonely Planet, New York Times, Fodors, Frommers
Recommended by:
Fodors, Frommers, Forbes, Telegraph
Recommended by:
CN Traveler, Travel+Leisure, Fodors
Recommended by:
Fodors, New York Times, Frommers
Recommended by:
New York Times, Frommers, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Lonely Planet, Frommers, Forbes
Recommended by:
CNN, Telegraph
Recommended by:
CNN, New York Times
Recommended by:
Lonely Planet, Forbes
Recommended by:
Frommers, Fodors
Recommended by:
New York Times
Recommended by:
New York Times
Recommended by:
New York Times
Recommended by:
CNN
Hawaii is a state is an volcanic archipelago in the Central Pacific as well as a state in the United States of America. The island is known for its beaches with golden, green, red, and black sands, tropical foliage, waterfalls, and cliffs.
Some of the great areas of Hawaii are:
Black Point
Black Point is a beautiful area that is also called Diamond Head and has white sandy beaches, beautiful mansions, and wide roads. The area is the home to an illegal and infamous saltwater pool that fills with ocean water during big swells and high tide.
Pupukea
Pupukea is a small land division that is located close to the North Shore of Oahu. The division is the home to Waimea Bay that hosts the world famous surf competition “The Eddie” every year. The area also offers striking view to Waimea Valley, Waimea Bay, as well as entire of the North Shore.
Hawaii Kai
Hawaii Kai is an up market suburban area situated on the southeastern coast of Oahu. The area has several restaurants, shops, skate parks, schools, sports fields, parks, farmers’ markets and a movie theater. The area has landmarks as China Walls and Koko Head stairs.
Lanikai
Lanikai is an attractive area situated on the eastern side of Oahu. The area is home to Mokulua Islands and Lanikai Beach and attracts tourists and locals. The area has numerous restaurants, shops and stunning beach parks.
Mānoa
Mānoa is an area located in the valley and wetter part of the island U.S. state. The area is the home to University of Hawaii at Mānoa and the University Avenue has several shops, bars, and restaurants.
Also check out our guide about the best areas to stay in Hawaii.
If you're looking for a cheap hotel in Hawaii, then book Waikiki Central Hotel. It's an excellent budget hotel offering great value for money. It's in a good location, it's been recommended by travel experts and the hotel has excellent customer reviews. Also check out our list of the best cheap hotels in Hawaii.
You like some luxury but don't like the famous chain hotels. If you're looking for the best boutique hotel in Hawaii, you should check out The Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club. It's a very cool hotel that has been highly recommended by travelers and experts.
Also check out our list of the best boutique hotels in Hawaii, it's a manually curated list of the most unique and romantic hotels on the islands.
If money isn't a problem and you're looking for a luxury hotel in Hawaii, then go for Four Seasons Resort Hualalai. The hotel offers excellent service, it's in a top location, it has been rated very highly by previous guests and renowned travel critics have recommended it. Also check out our list of the best luxury hotels in Hawaii, it's a manually curated list of the most exclusive 5-star hotels in the city.
Looking for a good and affordable private room or cozy dorm in Hawaii? Check out The Beach Waikiki Boutique Hostel by IH. The hostel has been highly rated by backpackers. Also check out our list of the best hostels in Hawaii.
Hawaii is expensive. For a 3-star hotel you have to pay around $200 per night and for a 4-star hotel you would be looking at $330 per night. If you're after a luxury 5-star Hawaii hotel then you can expect to pay around $630 per night.
If you're looking for a room with a view, then try the Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort Honolulu, Moana Surfrider Westin Resort Honolulu or New Otani Kaimana Beach Hotel Honolulu. All offer amazing views of Hawaii and the ocean according to recent customer reviews.
Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes, Waterfalls, Sightseeing, History. The Big Island of Hawaii has a diverse ecosystem unlike anywhere else on the planet, and on this day-long nature tour, experience the beauty of its black-sand beaches, thundering waterfalls, and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Price: $193.
Oahu Shark Dive. Set out from Oahu’s scenic North Shore to the depths of the big blue Pacific, where you have the chance to observe wild sharks from inside an underwater shark cage. Price: $109.
Pearl Harbor & USS Arizona Memorial Tour with Pick-Up. Skip the long lines to the Pearl Harbor attraction on a small group tour from Waikiki. Learn more about the events that led to the US joining World War II at the USS Arizona Memorial. Price: $55.
More things to do in Hawaii
The Hawaiian archipelago, a vibrant chain of volcanic islands rising from the heart of the Pacific, carries a history as deep and transformative as the ocean surrounding it. Initially settled by intrepid Polynesian voyagers centuries ago, the islands developed a complex, caste-based society under the guidance of powerful chiefs. This sovereign history shifted dramatically following the arrival of Captain James Cook in 1778, which ushered in an era of global contact, missionary influence, and the eventual unification of the islands into a kingdom under King Kamehameha I. By the late 19th century, political tensions and economic interests led to the overthrow of the monarchy and annexation by the United States, culminating in Hawaii’s admission as the 50th state in 1959.
Today, Hawaii stands as a unique cultural intersection, balancing its deep-rooted indigenous traditions with the realities of a modern, globalized economy. Beyond its status as a premier tourist destination, the state serves as a powerful symbol of the “Aloha Spirit”—a philosophy of love, peace, and compassion that permeates its local customs and social interactions. It remains a focal point for environmental stewardship and the ongoing preservation of Native Hawaiian language and heritage, acting as a bridge between East and West.
The islands also hold fascinating distinctions that defy common expectations. For instance, Hawaii is the only U.S. state that hosts an official royal residence, the Iolani Palace, which notably featured electricity and telephones before the White House. While many visitors flock to its famous beaches, the archipelago is also a land of climatic extremes, home to Mount Waialeale, one of the wettest spots on Earth, and the towering Mauna Kea, which is technically the tallest mountain in the world when measured from its base on the ocean floor. Furthermore, residents and visitors alike can mail a bare, husked coconut through the postal service, a quirky testament to the islands’ singular charm.
We recommend that you read our guide about where to stay in Hawaii. It gives you an excellent overview of the most popular areas, highlighting the main attractions and hotel recommendations for each area.
If you like our list of hotels, hostels, B&Bs and guesthouses in Hawaii, then you should also check out our selection of recommended hotels in Bali or the best hotels in the Dominican Republic.