202 Best Hotels in Hawaii, USA

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We've compiled the best of the best in Hawaii - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.

Kolea at Waikoloa Beach Resort

$$$$ | 69-1000 Kolea Kai Circle, Waikoloa, HI, 96738, USA Fodor's Choice

These modern, impeccably furnished condos offer far more high-end amenities than the average condo complex, including both an infinity pool and a sand-bottom children's pool at its oceanside Beach Club, a fitness center, and a hot tub. It's within walking distance of Anaehoomalu Bay and the beach and close to shopping.

Pros

  • Can walk to beach
  • Close to activities
  • Resort amenities of nearby Hilton

Cons

  • Pricey for not being directly on the beach
  • No on-property restaurants
  • Limited view from some units
69-1000 Kolea Kai Circle, Waikoloa, HI, 96738, USA
808-987–4519
Hotel Details
53 units
No Meals

Quick Facts

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Kona Tiki Hotel

$$$ | 75-5968 Alii Dr., Kailua-Kona, HI, 96745, USA Fodor's Choice

This small, oceanfront, walk-up hotel about a mile south of downtown Kailua Village, with modest, pleasantly decorated rooms on the ocean, is probably the best deal in town. Some might call it dated or old-fashioned, while others would say it imbues a cool vintage Hawaiiana charm. All rooms have fridges, but the lack of TVs is a proud tradition the hotel has maintained since the 1950s. Who needs TV when you have the ocean this close? A deposit is required, and you will need to book well in advance to secure a room.

Pros

  • Friendly staff
  • Oceanfront lanai on every room
  • Free parking

Cons

  • No A/C
  • No TV in rooms
  • Parking can be a challenge
75-5968 Alii Dr., Kailua-Kona, HI, 96745, USA
808-329–1425
Hotel Details
16 rooms
No Meals

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Kona Village -- A Rosewood Resort

$$$$ | 72-300 Maheawalu Drive, Kailua-Kona, HI, 96740, USA Fodor's Choice

Years after being destroyed by a tsunami, one of Kona's most beloved resorts has reopened, completely remodeled, yet retaining much of what made the original so special. The Standard 600-square-foot rooms (called hales, or homes) are all freestanding and feature thatched roofs and luxurious interiors. Suites and oceanfront bungalows (which come with a butler) offer the ultimate private getaway. Serenity abounds here with gardens, pools, and the ever-present sounds of the surf. Sustainability is a mission of the new resort: they have a solar panel field and an on-site farm where they source their own ingredients for their restaurants. The classic Shipwreck Bar is also back in business. There's a spa, yoga, a gym, complimentary bikes, and four pools available on-site.

Pros

  • Commitment to sustainability
  • Good wedding destination
  • Freestanding rooms

Cons

  • Remote location
  • Not all hales have views
  • Pricey
72-300 Maheawalu Drive, Kailua-Kona, HI, 96740, USA
808-865–2545
Hotel Details
150 rooms
Free Breakfast

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Recommended Fodor's Video

Lava Lava Beach Club Cottages

$$$$ | 69-1081 Kuualii Pl., Waikoloa, HI, 96738, USA Fodor's Choice

Spend the day swimming at the beach just steps away from your private lanai and fall asleep to the sound of the ocean at one of four artfully decorated, one-room cottages on the sandy beach at Anaehoomalu Bay. These cottages are among the few beachfront rentals you will find anywhere on the island. It's a short stroll to the adjacent Lava Lava Beach Club bar/restaurant, which serves lunch and dinner daily. Ride your included cruiser bike in the morning to the nearby coffee shops at the Kings' Shops and Queens' MarketPlace.

Pros

  • One of the island's few beachfront rentals
  • Fully air-conditioned
  • Fun, Hawaii-themed decor

Cons

  • Beach is public, so there may be people in front of cottage
  • Quite expensive
  • Noise, music from nearby restaurant
69-1081 Kuualii Pl., Waikoloa, HI, 96738, USA
808-769–5282
Hotel Details
4 cottages
No Meals

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Manago Hotel

$ | 81-6155 Mamalahoa Hwy., Captain Cook, HI, 96704, USA Fodor's Choice

If you are on a budget but still want to be near attractions such as Kealakekua Bay and Puuhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park, this 42-room historical hotel is a good option. Don't let the dated front TV room concern you: it's by design and part of the authentic old Hawaii vibe. The restaurant serves great pork chops and other island favorites. Dwight Manago—whose grandparents, Kinzo and Osame Manago, built the main building in 1917—has maintained one Japanese-style room with tatami mats and a furo, a traditional Japanese bath, and this is the room to book. The other rooms are basic and clean, and those in the newer wing have great views high above the Kona Coast. They do not take same-day reservations. 

Pros

  • Authentic local color
  • Rock-bottom prices
  • Terrific on-site restaurant

Cons

  • Not the best sound insulation between rooms
  • Older decor
  • Some rooms have highway noise
81-6155 Mamalahoa Hwy., Captain Cook, HI, 96704, USA
808-323–2642
Hotel Details
64 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

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Maui Eldorado Kaanapali

$$$ | 2661 Kekaa Dr., Kaanapali, HI, 96761, USA Fodor's Choice

The Kaanapali Golf Course's fairways wrap around this fine, well-priced, two-story condo complex that has spacious studio, one-, and two-bedroom units with fully equipped kitchens and access to a stocked beach cabana on a semiprivate beach. The complex itself isn't exactly on the beach—it's a quick golf-cart trip away—but when you arrive, you will have beach chairs at your disposal, as well as a full kitchen and lounge area at the cabana, Maui's only beachfront clubhouse. Back at the condo complex, the style of the privately owned units may vary, but most are tastefully decorated and offer modern appliances and spacious bathrooms. There is no elevator.

Pros

  • Privileges at the Kaanapali Golf Course
  • Wi-Fi in all units
  • Friendly staff

Cons

  • Not right on beach
  • Some distance from resort area attractions
  • No housekeeping but checkout cleaning fee
2661 Kekaa Dr., Kaanapali, HI, 96761, USA
808-633–8331
Hotel Details
204 units
No Meals

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Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection

$$$$ | 68-1400 Mauna Lani Dr., Mauna Lani, HI, 96743, USA Fodor's Choice

Popular with honeymooners and anniversary couples for decades, this elegant Kohala Coast classic is still one of the island's most beautiful resorts, highlighted by a breathtaking, open-air lobby with cathedral-like ceilings, Zen-like koi ponds, and illuminated sheets of cascading water. Free cultural and educational programs include tours of the ancient petroglyph fields with the on-site cultural historian and enjoying an evening "Talk Story" session with a Hawaiian kupuna (elder). The hotel, recently renovated, also offers experiences for active guests, such as outrigger canoe paddling, beachside yoga, local mountain bike tours, and stand-up paddleboarding. Decorated in warm, contemporary organic tones reflecting the spirit of the island, the spacious guest rooms have ceiling fans, dimmer lights, and expansive private lanai; many have ocean views. The flagship CanoeHouse restaurant offers romantic dining by the sea, the Ha Bar and Grill serves light bites and cocktails, and Surf Shack dishes casual fare by the beach. Mauna Lani is known for its two golf courses (check out the iconic South 15th hole over the ocean) and award-winning spa.

Pros

  • Beautiful design
  • Award-winning spa
  • Many Hawaiian cultural programs

Cons

  • No luau
  • Limited dining selection on-site
  • $50 resort fee
68-1400 Mauna Lani Dr., Mauna Lani, HI, 96743, USA
808-885–6622
Hotel Details
338 rooms
No Meals

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Moana Surfrider, a Westin Resort & Spa, Waikiki Beach

$$$$ | 2365 Kalakaua Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA Fodor's Choice

Waikiki's oldest hotel (1901) is still a wedding and honeymoon favorite, with a sweeping main staircase and Victorian furnishings in its historic and expensive Moana Wing and more contemporary rooms in its 1950s-era Diamond Head Tower and refurbished Surfrider Tower, where oceanfront suites have two separate lanai—one for sunrise and another for sunset. Relaxation here involves lounging on the private beach or in a pool cabana, taking afternoon tea on the veranda, indulging in a treatment at the Moana Lani Spa, or enjoying beach or street views from rocking chairs on the main lobby's front or back porches. Enjoy live music and hula at the Banyan Court each evening, or dine at the oceanfront Beachhouse at the Moana. Don't miss the prized banyan tree, which dates from the hotel's early days. Note that rooms vary in each of the property's towers, so ask specific questions when booking. The hefty resort fee covers cultural activities, yoga classes, and Wi-Fi.

Pros

  • Elegant, historic property
  • Lovely beach bar that often features live music
  • Can't beat the location

Cons

  • You'll likely dodge bridal parties in the lobby
  • Resort fee is $42 per day
  • Expensive parking ($35 per day for self-parking across the street)
2365 Kalakaua Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA
808-922–3111
Hotel Details
791 rooms
No Meals

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Montage Kapalua Bay

$$$$ | 1 Bay Dr., Kapalua, HI, 96761, USA Fodor's Choice

This luxury resort caters to well-heeled travelers who want the comfort and privacy of a residential-style suite combined with resort service and amenities—and here, the elegantly furnished one- to four-bedroom units include gourmet kitchens, in-unit washers/dryers, and the largest lanai to be found. Other attractions include a cascading lagoon pool, a no-cell phone serenity pool, multiple restaurants, and a 30,000-square-foot spa. The resort also offers unique experiences served up inside of your own space, including the Chef's Table in Your Residence program with a chef conducting—either in the residence's kitchen or outside—a heritage cooking lesson that demonstrates Hawaiian traditions. Also available are en-suite luau (with local food) and exercise equipment like Peloton bikes, Hypervolt massage tools, and weights delivered to the room.

Pros

  • Prime snorkeling
  • Great kids clubs for children and teens
  • Large, well-appointed rooms

Cons

  • Pricey daily parking and resort fees
  • Large property means lots of walking
  • Far from other Maui attractions
1 Bay Dr., Kapalua, HI, 96761, USA
808-662–6600
Hotel Details
50 units
No Meals

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Napili Kai Beach Resort

$$$$ | 5900 Lower Honoapiilani Hwy., Napili, HI, 96761, USA Fodor's Choice

Spread across 10 beautiful acres along one of Maui's best beaches, the family-friendly Napili Kai with its "old Hawaii" feel draws a loyal following to its island-style rooms that open onto private lanai. Studios and suites have kitchenettes, but for the most bang for your buck, splurge on the condo units at the western edge of the property, which have fully equipped stainless-steel kitchens and a wide lanai with views of Lanai and Molokai. Be sure to dine at the Sea House Restaurant with indoor-outdoor seating and a spectacular ocean view.

Pros

  • Weekly kids' hula performances and Hawaiian slack-key guitar concert
  • Fantastic swimming and sunning beach
  • No resort fees

Cons

  • Not as modern as other West Maui resorts
  • Beach subject to periodic erosion
  • Parking spaces tight for some
5900 Lower Honoapiilani Hwy., Napili, HI, 96761, USA
808-669–6271
Hotel Details
163 units
No Meals

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OUTRIGGER Kaanapali Beach Hotel

$$$$ | 2525 Kaanapali Pkwy., Kaanapali, HI, 96761, USA Fodor's Choice

This charming beachfront hotel is full of aloha—locals say it's one of the few resorts on the island where you can get a true Hawaiian experience as the entire staff takes part in the hotel's Pookela program, which teaches guests about the history, traditions, and values of Hawaiian culture. A recent remodel offers some premium upgraded rooms, alongside "traditional" rooms; all are decorated with Hawaiian motifs, and the expansive grounds offer plenty of spots to lounge in the sun or shade, with the sand just steps away. 

Pros

  • No resort fee
  • Friendly staff
  • Diverse array of cultural activities

Cons

  • Property is older than neighboring resorts
  • Fewer amenities than other places along this beach
  • Daily parking fee
2525 Kaanapali Pkwy., Kaanapali, HI, 96761, USA
808-661–0011
Hotel Details
432 rooms
No Meals

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Paniolo Hale

$ | 100 Lio Pl., Maunaloa, HI, 96770, USA Fodor's Choice

High on a ridge overlooking a favorite local surfing spot, Molokai's best condominium property has mature tropical landscaping, a nice pool, and barbecue grills. Elegant studios and one- or two-bedroom units have beautiful screened lanai, well-equipped kitchens, and washers and dryers; some also have spectacular ocean views.

Pros

  • Close to beach
  • Serene setting
  • Perfect if you are an expert surfer

Cons

  • Unit amenities vary
  • Far from shopping
  • Some units front an abandoned golf course
100 Lio Pl., Maunaloa, HI, 96770, USA
808-460–4221
Hotel Details
77 units
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $

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The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua

$$$$ | 1 Ritz-Carlton Dr., Kapalua, HI, 96761, USA Fodor's Choice

This notable hillside property features luxurious service and an enhanced Hawaiian sense of place, as well as upscale guest rooms and one- and two-bedroom condominium suites that incorporate the rich colors of the surrounding ocean, mountains, and rainforest. The multilevel pool and hot tubs are open 24 hours, and children have their own pool area. The Environmental Education Center features Jean-Michel Cousteau's Ambassadors of the Environment program, and a full-time cultural advisor instructs employees and guests in Hawaiian traditions.

Pros

  • Spa, golf, walking trails, and many other activities
  • AAA 4-Diamond Banyan Tree restaurant will please locavores
  • Many cultural and recreational programs

Cons

  • Can be windy on grounds and at pool
  • Far from major attractions such as Haleakala
  • Daily parking and resort fees
1 Ritz-Carlton Dr., Kapalua, HI, 96761, USA
808-669–6200
Hotel Details
466 units
No Meals

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The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort, Waikiki

$$$$ | 2259 Kalakaua Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA Fodor's Choice

There's nothing like the iconic "Pink Palace of the Pacific," which is on 14 acres of prime Waikiki Beach and which has held fast to the luxury and grandeur that first defined it in the 1930s, when it became a favorite of the rich and famous. Originally built for luxury-cruise passengers, it hosted galas in its early years and was later requisitioned by the U.S. Navy as a rest and relaxation center during World War II. Today, the property blends modern comforts with historic elegance. Guests appreciate the architectural detailing of the historic wing—with its canopy beds and earth-tone color schemes—but if you want a lanai for sunset viewing, opt for rooms in the oceanfront tower. As the original guests weren't interested in a water view after weeks on the high seas, the historic wing's garden-view rooms are the largest and can potentially be booked for a lower price. Ask about the fascinating (and free) historical tours offered weekly. The beachfront Mai Tai Bar is a local favorite for cocktails and sunsets, and the walk down the hotel's lovely foyer and onto the lawn is very grand indeed.

Pros

  • Choice of rooms in historic wing or oceanfront tower
  • Mai tais and sunsets are amazing
  • Luxury and sense of history in a prime location

Cons

  • Resort fee is $42 per day
  • High-traffic driveway entrance in center of Waikiki
  • Very small swimming pool
2259 Kalakaua Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA
808-923–7311
Hotel Details
528 rooms
No Meals

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Sensei Lanai, a Four Seasons Resort

$$$$ | 1 Keomoku Hwy., Lanai City, HI, 96763, USA Fodor's Choice

At this exclusive wellness retreat—the pinnacle of Hawaii luxury—you can create custom itineraries and experiences that might include spa services, wellness activities, and various island excursions. In addition to having one of the state's largest private art collections, the incredibly serene property has beautifully manicured grounds that include a mix of native and imported plants, a gorgeous pool complex, and private onsen hot pools. You can dine at Sensei by Nobu or the Koele Garden Bar or use signing privileges at restaurants in the nearby Four Seasons Lanai.

Pros

  • Walking distance to Lanai City
  • Unique private spa hales
  • Onsen outdoor baths

Cons

  • Guests must be age 16+
  • Climate can become cool and foggy
  • Not in the price range of the average traveler
1 Keomoku Hwy., Lanai City, HI, 96763, USA
808-565–2000
Hotel Details
96 rooms
No Meals

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Sheraton Kauai Resort

$$$$ | 2440 Hoonani Rd., HI, 96756, USA Fodor's Choice

The Sheraton is a sprawling resort with lodging that offers views of the ocean or lovely landscaped gardens; it's worth splurging on the ocean-wing hotel rooms, which are so close to the water you can practically feel the spray of the surf as it hits the rocks below. By day, the real fun comes from renting a cabana, complete with a love seat, lounge chairs, side tables, a TV, and a ceiling fan; by night, relax under the stars by one of the firepits. RumFire restaurant on the point has panoramic ocean views, there's an oceanfront luau twice a week, and Lava's by the beach has daily specials and desserts brought in from Ko Bakery. Villa units have kitchenettes and laundry machines, and are within walking distance of many restaurants and shops.

Pros

  • Ocean-view pool
  • Restaurants with spectacular sunset views
  • Good facilities for meetings, events, reunions

Cons

  • Parking can be a ways from the rooms
  • Renovated rooms but some dated infrastructure
  • Basic gym and no spa
2440 Hoonani Rd., HI, 96756, USA
808-742–1661
Hotel Details
188 rooms, 166 condos
No Meals

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Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa

$$$$ | 2605 Kaanapali Pkwy., Kaanapali, HI, 96761, USA Fodor's Choice

Set among dense gardens on Kaanapali's best stretch of beach, the Sheraton offers a quieter, more low-key atmosphere than its neighboring resorts, and it sits near Puu Kekaa, the site of a nightly torch-lighting and cliff-diving ritual. All rooms have plenty of amenities, including 50-inch flat-screen TVs; the massive swimming pool resembles a natural lagoon, with rock waterways and wooden bridges; and the Spa at Black Rock offers oceanfront services. Dining options range from casual poolside drinks and light fare to upscale Japanese and farm-to-table cuisine. The lobby lounge bar has incredible property and ocean views. The newer Moana Oceanfront Wing sits atop Puu Kekaa and offers a more exclusive, adults-preferred resort experience.

Pros

  • Free shuttle to Lahaina and shopping malls
  • Great snorkeling right off the beach
  • Maui Nui luau three times a week

Cons

  • Extensive property can mean a long walk from your room to lobby, restaurants, and beach
  • Daily resort and parking fees
  • Beach subject to seasonal erosion
2605 Kaanapali Pkwy., Kaanapali, HI, 96761, USA
808-661–0031
Hotel Details
508 units
No Meals

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Sheraton Waikiki Beach Resort

$$$$ | 2255 Kalakaua Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA Fodor's Choice

Towering over its neighbors along the beachfront, this big, busy hotel offers stunning views from most of its modern rooms, which received a major renovation completed in 2023 that features neutral shades with splashes of color. On-site amenities are plentiful and include one of Oahu's largest ballrooms, shops, and even a walk-in health clinic. The Helumoa Playground, with two swimming pools and a 70-foot waterslide, is a kid magnet, while the Edge of Waikiki infinity pool is a more subdued, adults-only swimming and lounging destination. Order a stellar cocktail and a bite to eat from the local-style pupu menu at RumFire, an oceanfront watering hole, or grab a drink at the relaxing Edge Bar and toast the sunset.

Pros

  • Fresh, modern guest rooms
  • Variety of on-site activities and dining options
  • Swimming pools often ranked among the Islands' best

Cons

  • Busy atmosphere clashes with laid-back Hawaiian style
  • Resort fee is $42 per day
  • Room sizes and views vary
2255 Kalakaua Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA
808-922–4422
Hotel Details
1,636 rooms
No Meals

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Turtle Bay Resort

$$$$ | 57-091 Kamehameha Hwy., Kahuku, HI, 96731, USA Fodor's Choice

Sprawling over nearly 1,300 acres of natural landscape on the edge of Kuilima Point in Kahuku, this resort has spacious guest rooms (averaging nearly 500 square feet) with lanai that showcase stunning peninsula views. In winter, when the big waves roll ashore, you get a front-row seat for the powerful surf. The 42 sumptuous oceanfront beach bungalows have private lanai and access to an exclusive pool area. Casual-chic Alaia, the resort's signature restaurant, showcases locally sourced ingredients in island-theme dishes. The resort also includes a collection of swimming pools and eateries, the 11,000-square-foot Nalu Spa, a Jamie O'Brien surf school, horse stables, 12 miles of nature trails, and the only 36-hole golf facility on Oahu.

Pros

  • Fabulous open public spaces in a secluded area of Oahu
  • Numerous amenities such as a beautiful spa and four outdoor pools
  • Excellent location for exploring the North Shore

Cons

  • Remote—even Haleiwa is a 20-minute drive
  • Hefty resort fee
  • 24/7 resort living isn't for everyone
57-091 Kamehameha Hwy., Kahuku, HI, 96731, USA
808-293–6000
Hotel Details
452 rooms
No Meals

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Volcano Village Lodge

$$$ | 19-4183 Kawailehua Rd., HI, 96785, USA Fodor's Choice

Hospitality abounds at this luxurious B&B in a secluded rain forest, where the separate suites (connected by paths) offer amenities including fine furnishings, dining niches, jetted bathtubs, heated blankets, and private forest entrances. In the lobby, the friendly staff "talks story" with guests and shares complimentary coffee, tea, cookies, and baked goods. On cool Volcano nights, warm yourself in the hot tub set under the stars.

Pros

  • Secluded and quiet
  • Hospitable staff
  • Outdoor hot tub

Cons

  • No covered parking
  • Far from Hilo town
  • No restaurants within walking distance
19-4183 Kawailehua Rd., HI, 96785, USA
808-985--9500
Hotel Details
5 suites
Free Breakfast

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Wailea Beach Resort -- Marriott, Maui

$$$$ | 3700 Wailea Alanui Dr., Wailea, HI, 96753, USA Fodor's Choice

This resort, which sits closer to the crashing surf than most in Wailea, delivers not only dramatic views but also luxurious amenities and spacious accommodations. Grown-ups can find peace and quiet at the adults-only Maluhia serenity pool, while kids can frolic at the Nalu Adventure Pool, which features four waterslides, including the longest in Maui at 325 feet. The resort also has the Mo Bettah food truck, a fun take on a local culinary tradition.

Pros

  • Has the only Starbucks in Wailea
  • Short walk to The Shops at Wailea
  • Te Au Moana Luau four nights a week

Cons

  • Rocky shore that is not quite beachfront
  • Foot traffic on coastal beach walk
  • Daily resort fee and daily self-parking fee (valet also available)
3700 Wailea Alanui Dr., Wailea, HI, 96753, USA
808-879–1922
Hotel Details
547 units
No Meals

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Whalers Cove Resort

$$$$ | 2640 Puuholo Rd., HI, 96756, USA Fodor's Choice

Perched about as close to the water's edge as they can get, these one- and two-bedroom condos are the most luxurious on the South Shore. The rocky beach is good for snorkeling, and a short drive or brisk walk will get you to a sandy stretch. Two barbecue areas, big picture windows, spacious living rooms, lanai, and modern kitchens with washer-dryers make this small hotel a home away from home. Units are individually owned, so they differ in decor. Grocery stocking service and on-call massage is available.

Pros

  • On-site staff and housekeeping
  • Outstanding setting
  • Spacious units with full kitchens

Cons

  • Rocky beach not ideal for swimming
  • No air-conditioning
  • Resort fee, but few amenities (curb-free entry and parking, Wi-Fi)
2640 Puuholo Rd., HI, 96756, USA
808-742–7571-local
Hotel Details
24 units
No Meals

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Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, Autograph Collection

$$$$ | 62-100 Mauna Kea Beach Dr., Mauna Kea, HI, 96743, USA
Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, Kohala Coast
Mauna Kea Beach Hotel

The grande dame of the Kohala Coast has long been regarded as one of the state's premier vacation resort hotels, and it borders one of the world's finest white-sand beaches, Kaunaoa. Bathrooms are large and luxurious and come with high-end bath amenities, and the beds are plush. But the resort outside the rooms has much to offer, too, including an 18-hole championship golf course, a top-rated seaside tennis club, and a fitness center. If all you want to do is relax, there's the Mandara spa, an outdoor swimming pool, and lots of comfy lounge chairs on the beach, a perfect crescent of sand and sea. You can also rent a stand-up paddleboard or canoe on-site. The hotel has two wings: the Main Tower and the Beachfront Wing. The latter's ground-floor units allow you to wake up and go right out to the beach. The oceanfront Manta restaurant is legendary, as is the signature Fredrico cocktail at the Hau Tree, which is steps from the beach.

Pros

  • Good dining options
  • Premier tennis center
  • No resort fees

Cons

  • Some oceanfront rooms are noisy
  • $35 daily valet parking fee
  • 27 miles from airport
62-100 Mauna Kea Beach Dr., Mauna Kea, HI, 96743, USA
808-882–7222
Hotel Details
252 rooms
No Meals

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Ala Moana Hotel by Mantra

$$ | 410 Atkinson Dr., Honolulu, HI, 96814, USA

A decent value in a pricey hotel market, location is the hallmark of this property, which is connected to Oahu's largest mall, the Ala Moana Center, by a pedestrian ramp and is just a 10-minute walk from Waikiki, a two-minute stroll from Ala Moana Regional Park, and a block from the convention center. The condo-style rooms resemble small, comfortable apartments, with microwave ovens, mini-refrigerators, flat-screen TVs, and lanai with outdoor seating. One-bedroom suites have kitchenettes. The lobby, pool deck, restaurants, exterior, and Waikiki Tower rooms have been refreshed recently. There's a fitness center with a sauna and steam room. The Signature Prime Steak & Seafood, on the 36th floor, has some of the best views of Honolulu in the city. The first floor houses the gastropub Pint + Jigger, with an extensive drink menu and distinctive bar food.

Pros

  • Great value (and no resort fee)
  • Refreshed look
  • Very convenient location

Cons

  • Outside the heartbeat of Waikiki
  • Kona tower rooms are not fully refurbished and look tired
  • Expensive parking
410 Atkinson Dr., Honolulu, HI, 96814, USA
808-955–4811
Hotel Details
1,100 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

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Alaaina Ocean Vista

$$$ | 184 Hana Hwy., Kipahulu, HI, 96713, USA

This B&B on the grounds of an old banana plantation past Oheo Gulch (about a 40-minute drive southwest from Hana town) is a simple, back-to-nature kind of spot that is "off the grid." Banana trees still populate the property, alongside mango, papaya, coconut, and avocado trees. There's also a Balinese garden, complete with a lotus-shaped pond. The single room has a private lanai with an outdoor kitchenette, shower, and tub (there's a regular shower in the room as well), and astonishing views of the coastline. Sam and Mercury, a mother-daughter team, live on-site in the main house and are available to give tips and advice about exploring the area. Note that the owners prefer not to host children.

Pros

  • Quiet and secluded
  • No pesticides or chemicals used on property
  • Gorgeous ocean views

Cons

  • Travel time from Kahului Airport is quite long
  • Remote location with no restaurants nearby
  • Two-night minimum, four-night maximum stay
184 Hana Hwy., Kipahulu, HI, 96713, USA
808-248–7824
Hotel Details
1 suite
Free Breakfast

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Aloha Cottages

$$$$ | 1041 Moanakai Rd., HI, 96746, USA

Owners Charlie and Susan Hoerner restored a three-bedroom plantation home on Kapaa's Baby Beach to reflect the charm of yesteryear with the conveniences of today. Think plank flooring, gingerbread, and stained glass alongside a Wolf stove, Bosch dishwasher, and granite countertops. The orientation is due east; you won't have to leave your bed—or living room or lanai—to watch the sunrise, the whales breach, or the full moon rise. In addition to the main Sunrise Cottage, there's a cozy and more affordable bungalow called Moonrise Cottage in back that's perfect for honeymooners. Rent both (weekly rentals only) to sleep a total of eight. Credit cards are accepted via PayPal only.

Pros

  • Comfortable homelike ambience
  • Good for large groups
  • Oceanfront

Cons

  • Can be windy at times
  • Not great for swimming
  • Facilities shared between the two houses
1041 Moanakai Rd., HI, 96746, USA
808-823--0543
Hotel Details
2 cottages
No Meals
Cleaning fee $250--$500

Quick Facts

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Aloha Guest House

$$ | Old Tobacco Rd., Honaunau, HI, 96750, USA

In the hills above Puuhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park, this guesthouse offers quiet elegance, complete privacy, and beautiful ocean views from every room. With a focus on nature, the house is tastefully furnished in tropically inspired earth tones. The bath products are 100% organic, and the yummy full breakfasts are as close to organic as they can muster, with produce grown on-site. Common areas include a kitchenette and living area with a high-definition television, DVD library, and computer with high-speed Internet. Minimum stays may be required, depending on the season. 

Pros

  • Eco-conscious option
  • Delicious full breakfast
  • Kitchenette in common area

Cons

  • Remote location up a bumpy 1-mile dirt road
  • 40 minutes from downtown
  • Four-wheel drive recommended
Old Tobacco Rd., Honaunau, HI, 96750, USA
808-328–8955
Hotel Details
5 rooms
Free Breakfast

Quick Facts

  • $$

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Aqua Aloha Surf Waikiki

$ | 444 Kanekapolei St., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA

This affordable property two blocks from Waikiki Beach appeals to the young (and young at heart) with surfer-chic rooms and suites, a cool blue-and-green color scheme, and lounge chairs throughout. Most accommodations have a lanai, mini-refrigerator, microwave, and coffee maker. Note that although the resort fee includes beach towels and chairs, the hotel does not offer daily housekeeping services (and also charges a one-time cleaning fee); replacement bedding and towels are available upon request, however. There isn't any food at the hotel, but many dining options are just outside.

Pros

  • In-room refrigerators and microwaves
  • Pool with sundeck and cabanas
  • On-site coin-operated laundry

Cons

  • Hotel is dated overall
  • No daily housekeeping services
  • No view and 10-minute walk to beach
444 Kanekapolei St., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA
866-970–4160
Hotel Details
204 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $

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Aston at the Executive Centre Hotel

$$ | 1088 Bishop St., Honolulu, HI, 96813, USA

One of only two hotels in downtown Honolulu, this all-suites high-rise is in the center of the business district, within walking distance of the historic Capitol District, museums, and Honolulu's Chinatown, and a 10-minute drive from Daniel K. Inouye International Airport. It's also three blocks from the Aloha Tower Marketplace and the cruise-ship terminal at Pier 10. Accommodations occupy the top 10 floors of the 40-story glass tower, with panoramic views of downtown Honolulu and Honolulu Harbor. Each spacious suite has a separate living area, deep whirlpool tubs, and a kitchenette stocked with cold beverages. Some units have washer-dryers. The revitalized Chinatown area offers foodie hot spots, bars, and art galleries. For travelers with business in downtown Honolulu or cruise passengers departing from Honolulu, this hotel is a convenient option. Remember that downtown is deserted on weekends and at night, so expect to wander to Waikiki or Chinatown for restaurants and activities.

Pros

  • Friendly staff
  • Close to many attractions
  • Good spot for overnighting before or after a cruise

Cons

  • No beach within walking distance
  • Suites are individually owned, so quality of room can vary
  • Parking is very expensive
1088 Bishop St., Honolulu, HI, 96813, USA
808-539–3000
Hotel Details
90 suites
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

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Aston at the Waikiki Banyan

$$ | 201 Ohua Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA

Families and active travelers love the convenience and action of this high-rise hotel, often referred to as "the Banyan," just a block from Waikiki Beach, the aquarium, the zoo, and bustling Kalakaua Avenue. The lobby is decorated in warm tropical woods with plenty of seating to enjoy the trade winds. All the suites here are privately owned (some units are dated), and many have fully equipped kitchens, as well as lanai that offer Diamond Head or ocean views. The recreation deck also has fantastic Pacific vistas, as well as outdoor grills; a heated swimming pool; two hot tubs; a playground; a mini putting green; and volleyball, basketball, and tennis courts. There is also a koi pond and a mini waterfall. 

Pros

  • Many suites have great views, and many have kitchens
  • Massive recreation deck for the entire family
  • Heated swimming pool

Cons

  • Suites are individually owned, so conditions can vary greatly
  • Resort fee is $25 per day
  • Sharing hotel with residents
201 Ohua Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA
808-922–0555
Hotel Details
876 suites
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

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