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.

Aston Islander on the Beach

$$$ | 440 Aleka Pl., HI, 96746, USA

A low-rise, Hawaii-plantation-style design gives this 6-acre beachfront property a pleasant relaxed feeling; the guest rooms are spread over eight three-story buildings, each with a lanai that looks out on lovely green lawns. The rooms are small, with showers and tubs, Wi-Fi, mini-refrigerators, coffeemakers, and microwaves. They are available oceanfront or with garden or ocean views. A free-form pool sits next to a golden-sand beach that's perfect for a quiet stroll, and there's a poolside bar and coffee shop on-site. It's located across the street from Coconut Marketplace, with its many shops and restaurant.

Pros

  • Convenient location near shops and restaurants
  • Coin-operated laundries
  • Online rate deals

Cons

  • Smallish pool
  • No restaurant on the property
  • No resort amenities but still charges fee
440 Aleka Pl., HI, 96746, USA
808-822–7417-direct
Hotel Details
200 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

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Aston Kona by the Sea

$$$$ | 75-6106 Alii Dr., Kailua-Kona, HI, 96740, USA

Complete modern kitchens, tiled lanai, and washer-dryer units are found in every suite of this comfortable oceanfront condo complex with a welcoming entry lobby and a reception area that feels like a hotel. The nearest sandy beach is 2 miles away, but the pool is next to the ocean and 50 of the rooms are oceanfront. A second, ocean-fed saltwater pool sits at the edge of the property, perfect for relaxing in the waves. Although the complex is not within walking distance of downtown Kailua Village, there are plenty of convenience stores and delis nearby.

Pros

  • Lobby and activities desk
  • Near delis and convenience stores
  • Ocean-fed saltwater pool next to the property

Cons

  • No beach access (2 miles away)
  • Not walking distance to Kailua Village
  • Individually owned units, so prices may vary
75-6106 Alii Dr., Kailua-Kona, HI, 96740, USA
808-327–2300
Hotel Details
86 units
No Meals

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Aston Mahana at Kaanapali

$$$$ | 110 Kaanapali Shores Pl., Honokowai, HI, 96761, USA

Though the name claims Kaanapali, this older, 12-story oceanfront condominium complex, where all units have unobstructed panoramic views of the ocean and nearby islands, is actually in quiet, neighboring Honokowai. There's a range of studio, one-, and two-bedroom units—all with spacious bedrooms, kitchens, living areas, and floor-to-ceiling windows—and an elegant pool that faces a sandy beach that's good for snorkeling because of the shallow reef.

Pros

  • Private lanai and massive windows great for sunsets and whale-watching
  • Tennis, shuffleboard, and pickleball courts
  • Shell lei and children's gift on check-in

Cons

  • Furnishings in some units may need updating
  • No shops or restaurants on property
  • Lacks resort amenities
110 Kaanapali Shores Pl., Honokowai, HI, 96761, USA
808-661–8751
Hotel Details
215 units
No Meals

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Aston Maui Hill

$$$$ | 2881 South Kihei Rd., Kihei, HI, 96753, USA

Take in sweeping views of the ocean and Haleakala from the large lanai of the one- to three-bedroom units at this sprawling, well-maintained property just outside the swanky Wailea Resort. There's not much in the way of amenities (pool, small whirlpool spa, tennis court, putting green, shuffleboard, and daily housekeeping), but just across the street is Kamaole Beach Park III, one of the area's most popular spots for family picnics and sunset watching.

Pros

  • Great option for large groups needing multiple units
  • No resort or parking fees
  • Spacious layout makes property seem less crowded

Cons

  • Decor may seem dated
  • Units are not handicapped-accessible
  • Stairs and walking distances may be challenging to guests with mobility issues
2881 South Kihei Rd., Kihei, HI, 96753, USA
808-879–6321
Hotel Details
140 units
No Meals

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Aston Shores at Waikoloa

$$$$ | 69-1035 Keana Pl., Waikoloa, HI, 96738, USA

Villas with terra-cotta-tile roofs are set amid landscaped lagoons and waterfalls at the edge of the championship Waikoloa Village Golf Course. The spacious units—ground and upper floors are available separately—are privately owned, so furnishings vary from unit to unit. Sliding glass doors open onto a large lanai, and picture windows look out onto rolling green fairways. All units have full kitchens and washer-dryers. Check the website for separate online-booking rates and specials. There's also free access to tennis courts, a swimming pool, outdoor barbecues, and the fitness center. A daily $10 amenity fee includes Wi-Fi, newspaper, parking, coffee, and security safe.

Pros

  • Good prices for the area
  • Free parking
  • Kid-friendly option with a pool and in-room kitchens

Cons

  • No restaurants on-site
  • Daily resort fee
  • Older decor in some rooms
69-1035 Keana Pl., Waikoloa, HI, 96738, USA
808-886–5001
Hotel Details
120 suites
No Meals

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Aston Waikiki Beach Tower

$$$$ | 2470 Kalakaua Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA

Here, in the center of Waikiki, you get the elegance of a luxury all-suites condominium combined with the intimacy and service of a boutique hotel. Facing Kuhio Beach, this 39-story tower offers spacious (1,100–1,400 square feet) one- and two-bedroom suites with gourmet kitchens and windows that open to views of Waikiki and the Pacific Ocean. The property is a favorite for families looking for sophisticated space and facilities, all within a quick stroll to the beach. Amenities include in-unit washer-dryers, free in-room Wi-Fi, large flat-panel smart TVs, chef-inspired kitchens, pullout sofas, luxury bedding, large lanai, and dining areas to accommodate the whole family. Beyond your room, the resort offers an expansive pool deck, poolside cabanas, barbecue stations, a fitness center, and a yoga studio.

Pros

  • Roomy suites with kitchens and quality amenities
  • Great private lanai and views
  • A recreation deck with something for everyone

Cons

  • Resort fee is $39 per day
  • You must cross a busy street to the beach
  • Space, amenities, and location don't come cheap
2470 Kalakaua Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA
808-926-6400
Hotel Details
140 suites
No Meals

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Aston Waikiki Circle Hotel

$$ | 2464 Kalakaua Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA

Built to resemble a Chinese lantern, this circular, 14-story hotel is a Waikiki landmark, with a charming interior design that brings the Pacific inside, beginning at check-in with breezes that flow through an open-air lobby. Honeymooners, snowbirds, and old-timers love this little hotel, where the front-desk staff takes the time to get to know you. Although rooms are small, with tiny bathrooms that have only (tiny) showers, they're done in bright, aqua-and-yellow color schemes, they utilize every bit of space well, and they all have a lanai with a view that guests return for again and again. Not that you'll be in your room much: Waikiki Beach and the famed Duke statue are right down the front stairs and across the street. The popular and casual Eggs 'n Things eatery is in the lobby, and an ABC Store is steps away. 

Pros

  • Unbeatable location
  • Lanai with a view in every room
  • On-site surfboard lockers and complimentary beach gear

Cons

  • Small rooms, with showers only
  • Busy location in Waikiki
  • Resort fee is $25 per day
2464 Kalakaua Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA
808-923–1571
Hotel Details
104 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

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The Breakers Hotel

$ | 250 Beach Walk, Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA

With a homey atmosphere and a vintage vibe, this small, low-rise complex—two blocks from the beach and close to the Waikiki Beach Walk entertainment, dining, and retail complex—transports its guests back to 1960s-era Hawaii. Six two-story, ranch-style buildings overlook flower-filled gardens and surround the pool area, which is also home to Wasabi Bistro, a popular Japanese restaurant. Although rooms are dated (and have bathrooms with showers only), they do have kitchenettes, as well as intriguing, Japanese-style shoji doors that open to the lanai.

Pros

  • Intimate atmosphere with fabulous poolside courtyard
  • Great location
  • Kitchenettes and lanai

Cons

  • A bit worn down and dated
  • Parking is extremely limited (but free)
  • Showers only
250 Beach Walk, Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA
808-923–3181
Hotel Details
63 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

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The Cabins at Kokee

$ | 3600 Kokee Rd., HI, 96716, USA

If you're an outdoors enthusiast, you can appreciate Kauai's mountain wilderness from the dozen rustic cabins—of varying age and quality—that make up this lodge. Cabins are no-frills but more comfortable than a tent, and the mountain setting and proximity to some of the state's most beautiful trails are grand. Wood-burning stoves ward off the winter chill and dampness (wood is a few dollars extra), as it can get pretty cold at this elevation. Cabins sleep two to six and have full kitchens and bathrooms. Note that there's no Wi-Fi or cell service. The nearby restaurant serves breakfast and lunch, or you can bring up groceries from Waimea.

Pros

  • Outstanding setting
  • More refined than camping
  • Cooking facilities

Cons

  • Wood-burning stove is the only heat
  • No Wi-Fi or cell service
  • $79 cleaning fee
3600 Kokee Rd., HI, 96716, USA
808-652–6852
Hotel Details
11 cabins
No Meals

Quick Facts

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Castle Hilo Hawaiian Hotel

$ | 71 Banyan Dr., Hilo, HI, 96720, USA

This landmark hotel has large bayfront rooms offering spectacular views of Maunakea and Coconut Island on Hilo Bay; street-side rooms overlook the golf course, and the hotel is within walking distance of Liliuokalani Gardens. Most accommodations have private lanai; kitchenettes are available in the Banyan and Ocean suites, and the custom-made furniture in every room evokes a feeling of Hawaiiana. More bay views are on tap from first-class WSW The Steakhouse, billed as Hilo's only authentic steak house. At the hotel's bar and lounge, you can get a grab-and-go lunch or enjoy cocktails and appetizers. Nearby parks, shops, and restaurants are easy walks.

Pros

  • Private lanai in most rooms
  • 24-hour front desk
  • Free parking

Cons

  • Dated decor
  • Some rooms don't have bayfront views
  • No beach
71 Banyan Dr., Hilo, HI, 96720, USA
808-935–9361-direct
Hotel Details
286 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

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Castle Kona Bali Kai

$$$ | 76-6246 Alii Dr., Kailua-Kona, HI, 96740, USA

These slightly older condominium units, spread out among three low-rises on the ocean side of Alii Drive, are situated at Kona's most popular surfing spot, Banyans, and also just a couple of minutes' drive from Kailua Village and within walking distance of popular Laaloa (Magic Sands) Beach Park. Kitchens are fully equipped. Choose between the lower-priced mountain view, midrange partial ocean view, and more expensive oceanfront rooms; the rates are surprisingly decent. There's a great Hawaiian poke café (Da Poke Shack) nearby, plus a cash-only sundry shop across the street.

Pros

  • Convenience mart and beach-gear rental nearby
  • Choice of different views among the units
  • Views of surfers on the water

Cons

  • Mountain-view rooms close to noisy street
  • Oceanfront rooms don't have a/c
  • Older-looking concrete buildings
76-6246 Alii Dr., Kailua-Kona, HI, 96740, USA
808-329–9381
Hotel Details
64 units
No Meals

Quick Facts

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Castle Poipu Shores

$$$ | 1775 Pee Rd., HI, 96756, USA

Perched on a rocky point above the pounding surf—perfect for whale- or turtle-watching—these three low-rise buildings have individually owned condos with full kitchens and washer-dryers. All condos have large windows, and many have bedrooms on the ocean side; each unit either shares a sundeck or has its own lanai. There's an oceanside pool, and weddings are sometimes staged on a little lawn beside the sea. A sandy swimming beach is a 10-minute walk away.

Pros

  • Every unit faces the water
  • Heated oceanfront pool
  • Condos have outdoor space

Cons

  • Units vary widely in style
  • No resort amenities
  • Swimming beach is a 10-minute walk away
1775 Pee Rd., HI, 96756, USA
800-325–5701-The Parrish Collection
Hotel Details
39 units
No Meals

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Chalet Kilauea Rainforest Hotel

$ | 19-4178 Wright Rd., HI, 96785, USA

Quirky yet upscale, this accommodation features four artistically distinctive rooms that unveil beautiful views of the rain forest from a great location five minutes from Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The hotel offers imported linens, custom-made wooden bed frames, a garden gazebo, a koi pond, and a six-person hot tub. It's one of several properties under the umbrella of Kilauea Hospitality Group; another is Lokahi Lodge, which has cozy rooms with comfy beds and plenty of exposed beams and wood. The group's most reasonably priced lodge is the Volcano Hale, which dates to 1912 and has a communal kitchen and fireplace.

Pros

  • Unique decor
  • Friendly front desk
  • Hot tub on property

Cons

  • Space heaters
  • Stairs to upper floor
  • Can get cold at night
19-4178 Wright Rd., HI, 96785, USA
808-967–7786
Hotel Details
4 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $

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Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel

$$$$ | 75-5660 Palani Rd., Kailua-Kona, HI, 96740, USA

Right on the beach in the heart of Historic Kailua Village, this landmark hotel built in 1975 offers good vibrations and authentic local hospitality—all for less than the price of a Kohala Coast resort. The entire property highlights Kona's rich history, whether on the grounds where King Kamehameha I spent his final years or in the jazzed-up lobby, which displays an impressive array of historical Hawaiian artifacts. The hotel has the state's largest collection of Herb Kane artwork, a cache of billfish trophies, and an authentic koa canoe. Rooms include sliding plantation-shutter screens and carved wood furnishings in Polynesian motifs. The open-air Honu's on the Beach and the Billfish Poolside Bar and Grille are adjacent to Kamakahonu Bay and Ahuena Heiau, site of the first capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom. Amenities abound, from water sports to a fitness center to a spa. The lobby's plush business library provides complimentary computer use and private seating enclaves with flat-screen TVs. Many of the rooms offer only partial ocean views.

Pros

  • Easy access to shops and restaurants
  • Deep historical ambience includes Hawaiian artifacts
  • On-site restaurant and poolside bar

Cons

  • Most rooms have partial ocean views
  • Some rooms face the parking lot
  • Often sold out
75-5660 Palani Rd., Kailua-Kona, HI, 96740, USA
808-329–2911
Hotel Details
452 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

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Courtyard by Marriott Maui Kahului Airport

$$$$ | 532 Keolani Pl., Kahului, HI, 96732, USA

At the entrance to Kahului Airport, this hotel offers many amenities, including up-to-date technology throughout, a 24-hour fitness center, a pool, a firepit, and a free shuttle to nearby shops and restaurants. In the lobby, a touch-screen "concierge" prints out maps and the Bistro restaurant has meeting pods with flat screens and plug-ins. Guest rooms have large workstations, and family suites have a fully equipped kitchen, pull-out sofa in the living room, and two bedrooms. Kanaha Beach Park, a world-famous windsurfing and kiteboarding spot, is nearby.

Pros

  • Great for business and pleasure
  • Central location close to the airport and Kanaha Beach
  • Conference and banquet rooms available

Cons

  • Not on the beach
  • Airport and city noise
  • Daily parking fee
532 Keolani Pl., Kahului, HI, 96732, USA
808-871–1800
Hotel Details
138 rooms
No Meals

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Courtyard by Marriott Oahu North Shore

$$$ | 55-400 Kamehameha Hwy., Laie, HI, 96762, USA

This property offers reliable and affordable accommodations close to the Polynesian Cultural Center and a short drive to some of the North Shore's most iconic beaches and surfing spots. Free Wi-Fi, daily newspapers, a fitness center, a pool, and proximity to the beach make it a welcome addition to the otherwise limited lodging options along the coast. The Bistro offers breakfast and dinner in the hotel, which houses the only 24-hour Starbucks on the North Shore. The Laie Foodland is close by for stocking up on essentials. Remember that Laie is a dry town, so buy beer, wine, and spirits in Honolulu or Haleiwa.

Pros

  • Good bet for North Shore exploring
  • Reliable, modern, and clean
  • Near the beach

Cons

  • A long drive to the rest of Oahu's attractions
  • No alcohol served in the hotel or nearby establishments
  • A car is needed, and parking is not free
55-400 Kamehameha Hwy., Laie, HI, 96762, USA
808-293–4900
Hotel Details
144 rooms
No Meals

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Dolphin Bay Hotel

$ | 333 Iliahi St., Hilo, HI, 96720, USA

Units in this circa-1950s motor lodge are modest but charming, as well as clean and inexpensive; a glowing lava-flow sign marks the office and testifies to owner John Alexander's passion for the volcano. Stunning lava pictures adorn the common area, and Alexander is a great source of information for visiting the national park and for exploring the back roads of Hilo. Coffee and fresh fruit are offered daily with banana bread. Four blocks from downtown Hilo, in a historic residential area called Puueo, the hotel borders a verdant two-acre Hawaiian garden with jungle trails and shady places to rest. Guests of the hotel return repeatedly, and it's ideal for families who seek a home base. Six additional units across the street are for long-term stays.

Pros

  • Great value
  • Full kitchens in all units
  • Within walking distance to shops and restaurants

Cons

  • No pool
  • No phones in the rooms
  • Dated decor
333 Iliahi St., Hilo, HI, 96720, USA
808-935–1466
Hotel Details
18 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $

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DoubleTree by Hilton Alana – Waikiki Beach

$$ | 1956 Ala Moana Blvd., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA

A convenient location—a 10-minute walk from the Hawaii Convention Center or the beach—a professional staff, pleasant public spaces, and a 24-hour business center and small gym draw a global clientele to this reliable chain hotel. The intimacy of the property, the staff's attention to detail, the lovely pool, and the signature DoubleTree chocolate-chip cookies upon arrival resonate with leisure travelers. All the rooms in the 19-story high-rise have private lanai, but they overlook the city and busy Ala Moana Boulevard across from Fort DeRussy. It's not exactly oozing that Hawaiiana feel, but the location, dependability, and service make it a solid choice.

Pros

  • Walkable to the beach and Ala Moana mall
  • Walk-in glass showers with oversize rain showerheads
  • Heated outdoor pool and 24-hour fitness center

Cons

  • Lanai have city views
  • Little local flavor
  • Resort fee is $30 per day
1956 Ala Moana Blvd., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA
808-941–7275
Hotel Details
317 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

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Embassy Suites by Hilton Waikiki Beach Walk

$$$ | 201 Beach Walk, Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA

In a place where space is at a premium, this resort in the heart of the Waikiki Beach Walk dining and shopping area offers families and other groups spacious, one- and two-bedroom suites stylishly decorated in relaxing earth tones with splashes of color. In addition to amenities like pull-out sofas and wet bars with microwaves and mini-refrigerators, suites have at least two balconies—some with ocean views, most overlooking the 1,965-square-foot, open-air Grand Lanai with its heated pool, sundeck, and outdoor bar. Perks include a free (hot) breakfast daily and a free happy hour reception (with snacks) nightly. The hotel is steeped in Hawaiiana: not only does it offer cultural programs for adults and youth, but it's also home to famous chef Roy Yamaguchi's Roy's Waikiki restaurant.

Pros

  • No resort fee
  • Spacious and modern rooms with kitchenettes
  • Free hot breakfast and happy hour reception daily

Cons

  • No direct beach access
  • Lobby feels more like a business hotel
  • Property can seem busy and noisy
201 Beach Walk, Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA
800-362–2779-toll-free
Hotel Details
369 suites
Free Breakfast

Quick Facts

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The Equus

$ | 1696 Ala Moana Blvd., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA

On the ewa (western) end of Waikiki, a block from both the Ala Moana Center and Ala Moana Beach Park, this modern, family-owned, boutique hotel has a Hawaiian country theme that pays tribute to Hawaii's polo-playing history. All rooms have refrigerators and coffee makers; some have balconies and partial ocean views. On-site amenities include free Wi-Fi, a small swimming pool, and the Paniolo Bar & Cafe, which serves artisan coffees in the morning and craft cocktails in the evening. The front-desk staff is happy to assist with driving directions to the polo-playing fields at Mokuleia and Waimanalo, with free tickets for guests in season (April–September).

Pros

  • Free beach towels, chairs, and umbrellas
  • Attentive staff
  • Nicely furnished rooms

Cons

  • Busy, hectic area
  • Must cross a major road to reach the beach
  • Resort fee is $25 a day
1696 Ala Moana Blvd., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA
808-949–0061
Hotel Details
67 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $

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Espacio – The Jewel of Waikiki

$$$$ | 2452 Kalakaua Ave., Honolulu, HI, 98615, USA

As its name suggests, this is one of the most luxurious hotel experiences in Hawaii, with nine designer suites, each occupying an entire floor and featuring smart-home technology, a large private lanai with a hot tub, two or three bedrooms, a gourmet kitchen, and spacious bathrooms with saunas. Stylish accents include beautiful Italian marble and Moroccan metalwork. Daily in-room continental breakfast, butlers, and a private luxury car are included in the rate. Guests also have access to private chefs and grocery-shopping services, as well as a small rooftop infinity pool. Mugen, the exclusive Asian Fusion restaurant, is on-site as well.

Pros

  • Incredible ocean views
  • Height of opulence and luxury
  • Highest level of service

Cons

  • Swimming pool is shared and on the small side
  • Across the street from the beach
  • Exceptionally expensive
2452 Kalakaua Ave., Honolulu, HI, 98615, USA
855-945–4089-toll-free
Hotel Details
9 suites
Free Breakfast

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Fairmont Kea Lani Maui

$$$$ | 4100 Wailea Alanui Dr., Wailea, HI, 96753, USA

Gleaming white spires and tiled archways are the hallmark of this stunning resort that's particularly good for families with its spacious suite and villa options. The 37 two-story villas have two or three large bedrooms, a laundry room, a fully equipped kitchen, and a private lanai with plunge pool and barbecue grill. There's also an on-site spa, cultural classes, and wellness programs. The family-friendly and adults-only pool options offer something for everyone.

Pros

  • All rooms are suites
  • 22,000-square-foot water complex
  • On almost-private Polo Beach

Cons

  • Noisy families at play may be a turnoff for some
  • Daily resort and parking fees
  • Lounge chairs in high demand
4100 Wailea Alanui Dr., Wailea, HI, 96753, USA
808-875–4100
Hotel Details
450 suites
No Meals

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Fairway Villas Waikoloa by Outrigger

$$$ | 69-200 Pohakulana Pl., Waikoloa, HI, 96738, USA

These large and comfy town houses and condominiums, located just off the fairway of the Waikoloa Beach Course, are a short walk from Anaehoomalu Bay. Designed in the style of plantation-era homes, the villas are decorated with rattan furniture and tropical themes and come complete with top-notch appliances in fully equipped kitchens. A five-minute walk from the upscale Kings' Shops, the facility has its own infinity pool, a lava-rock whirlpool spa, and a small gym.

Pros

  • Good location for beach, shopping, dining, and golf
  • Infinity pool
  • Well-equipped kitchens

Cons

  • No ocean views
  • Lots of guest rules and regulations
  • Expensive cleaning fees
69-200 Pohakulana Pl., Waikoloa, HI, 96738, USA
808-886–0036
Hotel Details
70 units
No Meals

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Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo – A DoubleTree by Hilton

$$ | 93 Banyan Dr., Hilo, HI, 96720, USA

Hilo isn't known for its fancy resort hotels, but the Grand Naniloa, built in 1939, attempts to remedy that situation in grand fashion, paying homage to hula, Hawaiian culture, and Big Island adventures. Art photography of the ancient style of hula graces the walls, halls, lobby, and guest rooms, and the open-air lobby unveils stunning bayfront panoramas from its vantage on the peninsula. Rooms are contemporary in style, nicely appointed, and outfitted with standard amenities. The corner oceanfront rooms offer prime views, while harbor views prevail from other rooms. Just off the lobby, KapohoKine Adventures operates an on-site store and activities desk where guests can easily book zip-lining adventures, volcano tours, and other treks. At the hotel's main entrance, the Willie K. Crown Room is a concert hall and theater. Located poolside, Hula Hulas restaurant has open-air dining overlooking Hilo Bay. The Hula Lounge lobby bar presents live Hawaiian music nightly.

Pros

  • Walking distance to Japanese gardens and Coconut Island
  • Rental kayaks, paddleboards, and bikes
  • Free golf at adjacent 9-hole course and driving range

Cons

  • Some rooms don't have ocean views
  • Limited parking
  • Small swimming pool
93 Banyan Dr., Hilo, HI, 96720, USA
808-969–3333
Hotel Details
388 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

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Grand Wailea, a Waldorf Astoria Resort

$$$$ | 3850 Wailea Alanui Dr., Wailea, HI, 96753, USA

"Grand" is no exaggeration for this opulent, sunny, 40-acre resort that's wildly entertaining due to its elaborate water features such as the Wailea Activity Pool with enclosed "lava tube," slides, caves, a Tarzan swing, and the world's only water elevator. Paths meander tropical grounds, passing food gardens and artwork by noted international and Hawaiian artists. The Humuhumunukunukuapuaa restaurant—named for Hawaii's state fish—"floats" in a saltwater lagoon. The fabulous Spa Grande has wellness options that range from astrology to massage.

Pros

  • On beautiful Wailea Beach
  • Offers a large selection of cultural programs
  • Many shops

Cons

  • Daily resort and parking fees
  • Sprawling property can be difficult to traverse
  • Limited poolside chairs
3850 Wailea Alanui Dr., Wailea, HI, 96753, USA
808-875–1234
Hotel Details
776 rooms
No Meals

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Hale Hookipa Inn

$ | 32 Pakani Pl., Makawao, HI, 96768, USA

A handsome, 1924, Craftsman-style house in the heart of Makawao town is on both the Hawaii and the National Historic Registers, and provides a great base for excursions to Haleakala, Hana, or North Shore beaches. Owner Cherie Attix has furnished three pretty guest rooms with antiques and fine art, and she allows you to peruse her voluminous library of Hawaii-related books; all guests have access to the main kitchen for light meal preparation. The lush serene grounds have a gazebo and one of the biggest Norfolk pine trees in Hawaii. Discounts are offered to guests who participate in volunteer projects through Cherie's site (www.volunteer-on-vacation-hawaii.com).

Pros

  • Genteel rural setting
  • Price includes buffet breakfast with organic fruit from the garden
  • Charming architecture and decor

Cons

  • A 20-minute drive to the nearest beach
  • This is not the sun, sand, and surf surroundings of travel posters
  • No food allowed in rooms
32 Pakani Pl., Makawao, HI, 96768, USA
808-281-2074
Hotel Details
Credit cards accepted
4 units
Free Breakfast

Quick Facts

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Hale Hualalai Bed and Breakfast

$ | 74-4968 Mamalahoa Hwy., Holualoa, HI, 96725, USA

In cool, upcountry Holualoa, Hale Hualalai offers two exceptionally large suites with exposed beams, whirlpool tubs, and private lanai, but perhaps most memorable are the breakfasts ($15 per person)—owner Ricky Brewster was a chef at Four Seasons Hualalai Resort's Beach Tree restaurant. These are as varied as they are delicious, reflecting individual guest preferences—from Italian margarita frittatas with tomatoes and herbs grown on-site to Punaluu sweetbread French toast with Tahitian lime gastrique and crushed pecans. Ricky even grows and serves his own Kona coffee. Each 650-square-foot suite has a private entrance, whirlpool tub, and sunset views, making it perfect for couples.

Pros

  • Sunset views
  • Tastefully decorated house
  • Rental SUVs available

Cons

  • Not for kids
  • Not a central location
  • Frequently booked
74-4968 Mamalahoa Hwy., Holualoa, HI, 96725, USA
808-464–7074
Hotel Details
2 suites
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $

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Hale Kai Hawaii Suites

$ | 111 Honolii Pl., Hilo, HI, 96720, USA

On a bluff above Honolii surfing beach, this modern, 5,400-square-foot home is 2 miles from downtown Hilo and features four rooms—each with patio, deluxe bedding, and grand ocean views within earshot of the surf. Fresh flowers and artful decor add a warm tropical touch. A continental breakfast is served every morning on an outdoor deck or in the kitchen's bay-window dining area. From their lanai, guests can watch spinner dolphins or migrating whales during the season. These are ideal accommodations for honeymooners and empty nesters.

Pros

  • Daily fresh breakfast items in room
  • Intimate, romantic vibe
  • Free on-site parking

Cons

  • No kids under 13
  • Just outside walking distance to downtown Hilo
  • No air-conditioning
111 Honolii Pl., Hilo, HI, 96720, USA
808-935–6330
Hotel Details
4 rooms
Free Breakfast

Quick Facts

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Hana-Maui Resort

$$$$ | 5031 Hana Hwy., HI, 96713, USA

Managed by Hyatt since 2020, this remote ocean-side getaway is being refreshed and refurbished and features rooms, bungalow suites, and villas, as well as sprawling lawns, two restaurants that welcome both guests and nonguests, a pool and pool bar, a fitness center, and a spa. Some units have private lanai and/or kitchenettes; the decor is contemporary with wood, wicker, and rattan fixtures and furnishings.

Pros

  • Welcoming and attentive staff
  • Romantic spot perfect for honeymooners
  • Complimentary cultural experiences and activities

Cons

  • Ongoing construction noise can be bothersome
  • Some suites still in desperate need of an upgrade
  • Disparity in quality of accommodations
5031 Hana Hwy., HI, 96713, USA
808-400–1234
Hotel Details
75 units
No Meals

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Hanalei Bay Resort

$$$$ | 5380 Honoiki Rd., Princeville, HI, 96722, USA

The nicest feature of this three-story condominium resort overlooking Hanalei Bay is its upper-level pool with authentic lava-rock waterfalls, an open-air hot tub, and a kid-friendly sand beach. The buildings angle down the cliffs, making for some steep walking paths. Units are spacious, with high sloping ceilings and large private lanai. Rattan furniture and island art add a casual feeling to rooms. Some units are managed by the resort and others by private owners. All units have kitchens, including the smaller studios. This is a good choice for tennis buffs, and the on-site Happy Talk Lounge is lively in the evening with music, bar food, and dining.

Pros

  • Beautiful views
  • Restaurant, pool, tennis courts, and fitness center on property
  • Lively lounge

Cons

  • Steep walkways
  • Some units far from main building and restaurant
  • Long walk to beach
5380 Honoiki Rd., Princeville, HI, 96722, USA
808-826–6522
Hotel Details
134 units
No Meals

Quick Facts

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