33 Best Hotels in Oahu, Hawaii

Background Illustration for Hotels

As in real estate, location matters. And although Oahu is just 44 miles long and 30 miles wide—meaning you can circle the entire island before lunch—it boasts neighborhoods and lodgings with very different vibes and personalities. If you like the action and choices of big cities, consider Waikiki, a 24-hour playground with everything from surf to karaoke bars. Those who want an escape from urban life look to the island’s leeward or windward sides, or to the North Shore, where the surf culture creates a laid-back atmosphere.

Most of the island’s major hotels and resorts are in Waikiki, which has a lot to offer within a small area—namely shopping, restaurants, nightlife—and nearly 3 miles of sandy beach. You don’t need a car in Waikiki; everything is nearby, including the Honolulu Zoo and Waikiki Aquarium, the 300-acre Kapiolani Park, running and biking paths, grocery stores, and access to public transportation that can take you to museums, shopping centers, and historic landmarks around the island.

You’ll find places to stay along the entire stretch of both Kalakaua and Kuhio avenues, with smaller and quieter hotels and condos at the eastern end, and more business-centric accommodations on the western edge of Waikiki, near the Hawaii Convention Center, Ala Moana Center, and downtown Honolulu.

The majority of tourists who come to Oahu stay in Waikiki, but choosing accommodations in downtown Honolulu affords you the opportunity to be close to shopping and restaurants at Ala Moana Center, the largest shopping mall in the state. It also provides easy access to the airport.

If you want to get away from the bustle of the city, consider a stay on Oahu’s Leeward Coast. Consider the Ko Olina resort area, about 20 minutes from the Honolulu International Airport and 40 minutes from Waikiki. Here, there are great golf courses and quiet beaches and coves that make for a relaxing getaway. But you’ll need a car to get off the property if you want to explore the rest of the island.

Other, more low-key options are on Windward Oahu or the North Shore. Both regions are rustic and charming, with quaint eateries and coffee shops, local boutiques, and some of the island’s best beaches. One of Oahu’s premier resorts, Turtle Bay, is located here, too.

Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach

$$$ | 2490 Kalakaua Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA Fodor's Choice

The centerpiece of this modern, stylish high-rise, across the street from the beach in the middle of Waikiki, is the lobby's mesmerizing aquarium, filled with nearly 300,000 gallons of seawater and colorful marine life. There's something for everyone here, including airy guest rooms with private lanai and ocean views; an expansive, rooftop-deck infinity pool with a bar that serves small plates all day; and two of chef Morimoto’s restaurants—Morimoto Asia, which has stunning views, and the casual, street-level Momosan. The resort fee here includes the Beach Candy program, with a first-come, first-served array of beach toys and accessories. The exclusive Longboard Club, open to concierge-level guests, offers plenty of indoor-outdoor seating and a great selection of food and drink for breakfast and dinner.

Pros

  • New and modern, with several on-site restaurants
  • Cutting-edge fitness facilities and spa
  • Excellent guest lounge

Cons

  • Resort fee is $50 per day
  • Large hotel that can feel impersonal
  • You must cross the street for the beach
2490 Kalakaua Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA
808-922–1233
Hotel Details
839 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

Something incorrect in this review?

Halepuna Waikiki by Halekulani

$$$ | 2233 Helumoa Rd., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA Fodor's Choice

The outstanding service and attention to detail at this high-rise boutique property are the same as what's offered at its elegant sister hotel, the Halekulani, but without the beachfront location and higher prices. Only rooms on upper floors have ocean views, but all rooms feature lanai, modern furnishings, sleek bathrooms, and upscale amenities. The sundeck, with an infinity pool, sun beds, and a full-service bar, is a sanctuary eight floors up. Check out the street-level restaurant, UMI by Vikram Garg, and visit the spa at the Halekulani across the street. Note, too, that your key card allows complimentary admission to several Honolulu museums.

Pros

  • Fresh, modern, and well appointed
  • Great access to Waikiki Beach and Beach Walk shopping and dining
  • No resort fee

Cons

  • No direct beach access
  • Rooms can be small
  • Swimming pool can get busy
2233 Helumoa Rd., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA
808-921–7272-direct to hotel
Hotel Details
297 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

Something incorrect in this review?

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

Quick Facts

Something incorrect in this review?

Recommended Fodor's Video

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

  • $$

Something incorrect in this review?

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

  • $

Something incorrect in this review?

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

  • $$

Something incorrect in this review?

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

  • $$

Something incorrect in this review?

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

  • $

Something incorrect in this review?

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

Quick Facts

Something incorrect in this review?

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

  • $$

Something incorrect in this review?

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

  • $

Something incorrect in this review?

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

Quick Facts

Something incorrect in this review?

Hilton Garden Inn Waikiki Beach

$$ | 2330 Kuhio Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA

Most of the rooms at this expansive midrange chain hotel in the heart of Waikiki have a lanai with seating and feature a partial ocean or a Waikiki city view. On-site amenities include a rooftop pool and bar and a café–market. TR Fire Grill is adjacent to the hotel; International Marketplace, the multilevel outdoor shopping and dining complex, is across the street; and Waikiki Beach is two blocks away. 

Pros

  • Near International Marketplace's shops and restaurants
  • Rooftop pool
  • No resort fee

Cons

  • The large resort can feel impersonal
  • Valet-only parking
  • Two-block walk to the beach
2330 Kuhio Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA
808-892–1820
Hotel Details
623 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

Something incorrect in this review?

Hilton Waikiki Beach

$$ | 2500 Kuhio Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA

On the Diamond Head end of Waikiki and two blocks from Kuhio Beach, this 37-story high-rise is great for travelers who want to be near the action but not right in it. You enter through a lobby of rich wood detailing, contemporary fabrics, and magnificent floral displays. The lobby bar offers tropical cocktails, an Island-style pupu menu, happy hour specials, and live music; the M.A.C. 24/7 Waikiki restaurant serves modern comfort food (try the M.A.C. ginger ale made fresh at the bar). The 10th-floor outdoor pool has plenty of seating and some cabanas. If marriage is on your mind, a wedding gazebo anchors the hotel gardens, and there's penthouse reception space, too. Though rooms are dated, they're available in several sizes and configurations. Book one on an upper floor for an ocean or mountain view from your lanai.

Pros

  • Central location
  • Every room has a lanai
  • Pleasant, comfortable public spaces

Cons

  • Resort fee is $30 per day
  • $45 a day (valet only parking)
  • Older property that shows some wear
2500 Kuhio Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA
808-922–0811-direct to hotel
Hotel Details
609 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

Something incorrect in this review?

Hotel Renew

$ | 129 Paoakalani Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA

Just a block from Waikiki Beach, this unassuming but stylish boutique hotel focuses on wellness and renewal, making it a calm alternative to the big, bustling resorts that dominate the area. The cozy rooms feature muted tones and mid-century modern furnishings. Perks include free Wi-Fi, morning coffee in the lobby, and yoga or other wellness programs. There's also a grab-and-go food station and a (very) small lobby bar.

Pros

  • Free beach supplies, including towels, chairs, umbrellas, and snorkel gear
  • Personalized, upscale service
  • Close to zoo, aquarium, and beach

Cons

  • No pool or on-site restaurant
  • Daily amenity fee of $35
  • Rooms are small
129 Paoakalani Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA
808-687–7700
Hotel Details
72 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $

Something incorrect in this review?

Hyatt Centric Waikiki Beach

$$ | 349 Seaside Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA

Modern and stylish, with an urban beach vibe, the Hyatt Centric has a friendly staff, rooms in several sizes and configurations, and a sprawling, seventh-floor lobby with a breakfast café and lovely outdoor pool area. Although no rooms have lanai, all have large windows, great views, high-tech amenities, contemporary decor (neutral with lots of wooden touches and splashes of color), and spacious, well-lit bathrooms—some with both generously sized soaking tubs and showers.

Pros

  • Fresh, modern, and right in the middle of Waikiki
  • Spacious rooms and bathrooms
  • Lovely pool deck

Cons

  • Resort fee is $33 per day
  • Rooms don't have lanai
  • Not on the beach
349 Seaside Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA
808-237–1234
Hotel Details
230 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

Something incorrect in this review?

Ilikai Hotel & Luxury Suites

$$$ | 1777 Ala Moana Blvd., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA

At Waikiki's ewa (western) edge, overlooking Ala Wai Harbor and a five-minute walk from Ala Moana Beach Park, this high-rise resort is a Honolulu landmark—Jack Lord's character, Steve McGarrett, appears on a lanai here in the opening of the original Hawaii Five-O TV series. It's fun to ride the glass elevator to the top of the "I," and the IIikai has an open-air lobby, two pools, a fitness center, waterfalls, and a mix of individually owned condos and kitchen-equipped resort suites of various sizes. On-site dining options include Cinnamon's, a local favorite that serves food all day, and the iconic Chart House, Hawaii's longest-running individually owned and operated restaurant. At sunset, the lighting of the torches and blowing of the conch prepare you for a romantic evening in paradise. Special offers abound, so ask about them when booking.

Pros

  • Sunset views from most ewa-side rooms
  • Removed from some of the bustle yet still close to everything
  • Spacious rooms with kitchens

Cons

  • Resort fee is $25 per day
  • Five-minute walk to the beach
  • Despite renovations, it still shows its age
1777 Ala Moana Blvd., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA
808-954–7417
Hotel Details
779 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

Something incorrect in this review?

Ilima Hotel

$ | 445 Nohonani St., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA

Tucked away on a residential side street near Waikiki's Ala Wai Canal, this locally owned, 17-story, condo-style hotel is a throwback to old Waikiki, offering partially refreshed, large units that are ideal for families. The glass-walled lobby—with its koa-wood furnishings, original local artwork, and friendly staff—feels like a Hawaiian home-away-from-home. Rates are decent for the spacious, updated (2022) studios and one- and two-bedroom suites, all with full kitchens, Wi-Fi, and spacious lanai. Note: Bathrooms are dated and are scheduled for renovation in 2025. There's also an on-site coin-operated laundry room. It's a two-block walk to Waikiki Beach, shopping, and restaurants. Parking is free but limited; when the spots are full, you can sometimes find parking on the street. Every Friday morning, the Ilima Ohana Chorus performs in the lobby, and guests are invited to sing along.

Pros

  • Free parking (first-come, first-served)
  • Spacious rooms with separate bedrooms and kitchens
  • Friendly and helpful service

Cons

  • Dated bathrooms (renovations planned for 2025)
  • Resort fee is $38 per day
  • No ocean views
445 Nohonani St., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA
808-923–1877
Hotel Details
98 units
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $

Something incorrect in this review?

Luana Waikiki Hotel & Suites

$$ | 2045 Kalakaua Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA

If you like Hawaiiana and appreciate a bit of kitsch in your decor, this welcoming hotel with both rooms and condo units is a great option. The two-story lobby is decorated with Hawaiian-wood furnishings and Island-inspired fabrics, and all the accommodations have private lanai; some also have kitchenettes or full kitchens. Perks include free beach gear and bikes and a Manager's Reception (4–5 pm) with complimentary wine and cheese periodically during the week. The recreational deck features an updated fitness center, a heated swimming pool, and a barbecue area. A comfortable mezzanine lounge and a coin-operated laundry room round out the on-site facilities. Shops and restaurants are a short walk away. 

Pros

  • Some rooms have kitchenettes or full kitchens
  • Sundeck with pool and barbecue grills
  • On-site coin-operated laundry facilities

Cons

  • No direct beach access
  • Resort fee is $25 per day
  • Pool is small
2045 Kalakaua Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA
808-955–6000-direct to hotel
Hotel Details
225 units
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

Something incorrect in this review?

Oasis Hotel Waikiki

$ | 320 Lewers St., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA

An open-air lobby of Italian marble, a koi pond, hanging egg chairs, and a guava smoothie greet you on arrival at this hideaway a five-minute stroll from Kalakaua Avenue through one of the many public-access ways to the beach. The property's two towers offer nearly 100 standard rooms and junior or one-bedroom suites, some with small kitchen areas. All accommodations have a refrigerator, soaking tub, slick audio-entertainment systems, and free Wi-Fi. Request a room close to the top of the hotel's 11 stories if you want to see the ocean from your lanai. A limited continental breakfast on the lobby veranda is included. 

Pros

  • All rooms have lanai
  • Japanese restaurant adjacent to lobby
  • On-site coin-operated laundry

Cons

  • Rooms are slightly dated
  • Trip to the beach can be a bit of a haul if you're carrying lounge chairs
  • Valet parking only
320 Lewers St., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA
808-923–2300
Hotel Details
96 rooms
Free Breakfast

Quick Facts

  • $

Something incorrect in this review?

Ohana Waikiki East by Outrigger

$$ | 150 Kaiulani Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA

If you want to be in central Waikiki and don't want to pay beachfront lodging prices, consider the Ohana Waikiki East, which is a mere two blocks from the beach and within walking distance of shopping, restaurants, and nightlife. Don't expect any fancy lobbies or outdoor gardens here, but there are two on-site restaurants (Appetito Craft Pizza & Wine Bar and Tanaka of Tokyo), as well as a laundry room, coffee bar, and pool deck that was refreshed in 2023. The property is dated, but accommodations are spacious, with options that include standard rooms, studios, and kitchenette-equipped one- and two-bedroom suites. Certain rooms on lower floors have no lanai, and all rooms have showers only.

Pros

  • Reasonable rates close to the beach
  • Some rooms have kitchenettes
  • Spacious accommodations

Cons

  • Very basic public spaces
  • An older property with signs of wear and tear
  • Resort fee is $27 per day and parking fee is $35 per night
150 Kaiulani Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA
808-922–5353-direct to hotel
Hotel Details
441 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

Something incorrect in this review?

Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort

$$$ | 2169 Kalia Rd., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA

A prime location and aloha spirit keep guests returning to the Outrigger Reef, where rooms were renovated and the beach was widened in 2021, with 23 new rooms, a beachfront restaurant, and a luxury guest lounge added in 2022. For the best vistas, opt for ocean view or oceanfront accommodations in the Ocean Tower. The signature poolside restaurant, Kani Ka Pila Grille, is open all day and offers nightly live music by legendary Hawaiian entertainers. The Monkeypod Kitchen restaurant on the beach offers great ocean and Diamond Head views. 

Pros

  • On the beach
  • Direct access to Waikiki Beach Walk
  • Attentive staff

Cons

  • Pool is not beachfront
  • Views from nonoceanfront rooms are uninspiring
  • Resort fee is $45 per day
2169 Kalia Rd., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA
808-923–3111-direct to hotel
Hotel Details
669 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

Something incorrect in this review?

Outrigger Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel

$$ | 2300 Kalakaua Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA

Almost directly across from the Royal Hawaiian Center and next to International Marketplace, the Beachcomber is a well-situated high-rise hotel for families as well as those looking for a boutique feel in the heart of the action. Rooms vary in size, but all are stylish, updated, and have flat-screen TVs. Take a sunrise yoga class, walk the surfboard-lined pathway to the beach, or maybe catch the Saturday night "dive-in" movie at the rooftop pool. Hawaiian Aroma Caffe, which is popular with Instagrammers, serves up coffee and quick bites just off the main lobby. The popular and lively Maui Brewing Company restaurant offers casual food, local beers, and two happy hours daily.

Pros

  • Great beach views from some rooms
  • Renovated and stylish
  • Lovely pool area

Cons

  • Very busy area in the thick of Waikiki action
  • Not beachfront
  • Resort fee is $35 per day
2300 Kalakaua Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA
808-922–4646
Hotel Details
496 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

Something incorrect in this review?

Prince Waikiki

$$$$ | 100 Holomoana St., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA

The sleek, modern Prince—which looks to Asia both in its high-style decor and such pampering touches as the traditional oshiburi (chilled hand towel) for refreshment upon check-in—has luxury oceanfront rooms and suites overlooking the Ala Wai Boat Harbor at Waikiki's ewa (western) edge. It's close to Honolulu's downtown business district, the Hawaii Convention Center, and world-class shopping at Ala Moana Center. There's no beach here, but the sprawling, contemporary pool deck with cabanas and plenty of seating is an ideal spot to relax and soak in the island vibes. Ala Moana Beach Park is a 10-minute stroll along the harbor, and the hotel also offers discounted golf rates at the Hawaii Prince Golf Club (and a complimentary shuttle there). 

Pros

  • Fantastic views from all rooms
  • Excellent club lounge (available with certain rooms)
  • Two pools (including infinity pool)

Cons

  • Resort fee is $39 per day
  • Beach is a 10-minute walk away
  • Rooms don't have lanai
100 Holomoana St., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA
888-977–4623-toll-free for reservations
Hotel Details
563 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

Something incorrect in this review?

Queen Kapiolani Hotel

$$$ | 150 Kapahulu Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA

With a contemporary look combined with a retro nod to the 1970s, the Queen Kapiolani Hotel is a short walk from the beach and is known for its stunning, unobstructed views of Diamond Head—a fabulous backdrop for its expansive pool deck. The adjacent Deck Bar serves food and cocktails and showcases music on some nights. Rooms are decorated in pastel colors; some include kitchenettes and private lanai. The hotel’s bright, open lobby has several stores, including a small café serving light bites, an art gallery, and a surf shop where you can sign up for lessons. It’s also worth checking out the hotel’s large, museum-quality art collection throughout the property. 

Pros

  • Convenient Deck Bar by the pool
  • Beach gear available at valet desk
  • Large collection of museum-quality art

Cons

  • Resort fee is $40 per day
  • Bathrooms are small and a bit dated
  • Noise from pool bar can be bothersome
150 Kapahulu Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA
808-650–7841
Hotel Details
315 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

Something incorrect in this review?

The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach

$$$$ | 383 Kalaimoku St., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA

The only Ritz-Carlton on Oahu welcomes well-heeled guests from across the globe with its signature elegance and impeccable service. Although the beach is a 10-minute walk away through Fort DeRussy Park, the hotel's two infinity pools with cabanas are lovely sunbathing alternatives. As the name implies, the hotel is part residential condo and part resort, with studios and one- to three-bedroom suites that have gourmet kitchens and ocean views. On-site dining options include La Vie, which features a French tasting menu; Sushi Sho, a single-table gourmet experience; and Quiora, an Italian restaurant that sources ingredients locally. The hotel is also home to upscale grocer Dean & DeLuca, a 24-hour fitness center, and a luxury spa, and there's endless shopping in the immediate area.

Pros

  • Very private setting
  • Luxuriously appointed accommodations with kitchens
  • Pampering service and pools with views

Cons

  • Not close to the beach
  • Pricey, particularly given distance from beach
  • Families can sometimes overrun the facilities
383 Kalaimoku St., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA
808-922–8111
Hotel Details
552 units
No Meals

Quick Facts

Something incorrect in this review?

Sheraton Princess Kaiulani

$$ | 120 Kaiulani Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA

The Princess Kaiulani sits across the street from the regal Moana Surfrider, without some of the more elaborate amenities (such as a spa or a kids' club), but with rates that are considerably kinder to the wallet. Rooms are a bit dated and are located within two towers—some peer at the ocean over the Moana's low-rise historic wing. It's a two-minute stroll to the beach. The hotel's pool is streetside, facing Kalakaua Avenue, and cultural activities like hula and ukulele lessons are available on-site. It can feel a bit rushed with guests coming and going, but the location is convenient, and the rooms are more than adequate for the price. Many visitors stay at the PK (as it's called by locals) to spend their days at the beach and the bars across the street.

Pros

  • In the heart of everything in Waikiki, with the beach right across the street
  • Beach service with chairs, towels, fruit, and water available
  • Great value for the location

Cons

  • Lobby area can feel like Grand Central Terminal
  • Self parking is $42 per night
  • Resort fee is $37 per day
120 Kaiulani Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA
808-922–5811
Hotel Details
1,040 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

Something incorrect in this review?

Shoreline Hotel Waikiki

$$$ | 342 Seaside Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA

Situated on bustling Seaside Avenue, this 14-story, 1970s-era property has been transformed into an urban-chic boutique hotel with both island and retro touches that playfully blend 20th-century style with modern necessities. The bright, upbeat design of the lobby, featuring a rainbow of colors and funky furnishings, continues on the rooftop deck, with its bold mural, and in the rooms and junior suites, which also have amenities like iPhone docks, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi. (Note, though, that some room amenities vary, so if you need a kitchenette—or even a mini-refrigerator or microwave—specify when booking.) Perks include free coffee and filtered water in the lobby, as well as a complimentary reusable water pouch.

Pros

  • Great location in the middle of Waikiki
  • Resort fee waived if you book direct
  • Hipster decor a refreshing break from old-style Hawaiiana

Cons

  • If splashy colors aren't your thing, skip it
  • Rooms are inconsistently sized and equipped
  • Pool is accessed via two flights of stairs
342 Seaside Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA
808-931–2444
Hotel Details
135 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

Something incorrect in this review?

Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club

$$$ | 412 Lewers St., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA

A surfing vibe and authentic, whimsical Hawaiian touches throughout (the lobby, for instance, evokes the living room of the interior designer's grandmother) set this hip boutique property apart from other modernized midcentury digs. Guest rooms, all of which have private lanai, come in a number of sizes and configurations, and some are more updated than others, so ask for details when booking. The on-site Mahina & Sun’s restaurant, operated by renowned Kaimuki chef and local restaurateur Ed Kenney, has great house cocktails and a seasonal menu of dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. This hotel also offers free beach chairs for guests. 

Pros

  • Hipster, urban-chic vibe that works
  • Retro, locally designed decor
  • Ed Kenney restaurant on-site

Cons

  • Resort fee is $25 per day
  • Far from the beach
  • Rooms can be inconsistent in terms of updates
412 Lewers St., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA
808-923–8882
Hotel Details
112 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

Something incorrect in this review?

Twin Fin Hotel

$$$ | 2570 Kalakaua Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA

A good choice for families, this recently refreshed (2022) high-rise hotel features a surf-inspired vibe and is directly across the street from a protected stretch of Kuhio Beach and near Kapiolani Park. Although rooms can be small, most have full or partial ocean views and private lanai. Breakfast, evening music, and other gatherings take place on the third-floor pool deck, and Tiki's Grill & Bar serves a popular coconut shrimp dish as well as island-inspired cocktails. Access to the Coconut Club, a penthouse-level lounge overlooking the beach, is included with some room packages, with breakfast and light bites available throughout the day. Kids love the pool deck and cultural activities, such as free hula and lei-making lessons, and the hotel provides towels and chairs for the beach. The lobby can get very busy. 

Pros

  • Fun for families, including on the pool deck
  • Great beach access
  • Coconut Club lounge access for certain rooms/packages

Cons

  • Active lobby area and crowded elevators
  • Resort fee of $48 per day
  • Rooms are dated
2570 Kalakaua Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA
808-922--2511
Hotel Details
645 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

Something incorrect in this review?