For it sun-drenched golden shores and superb surf spots, Honolulu in Oahu has become a popular vacation destination with lovers of the sand and the sea—and people come in droves, from across the globe for a sunny slice of island life. They come for the sand, sun, and surf at Waikiki Beach, and to visit famed attractions like Diamond Head, Hanauma Bay, Hoomaluhia Botanical Garden, Iolani Palace, Waimea Waterfall, and so many other places of interest. But, there’s more to this capital and largest city of Hawaii than just its lively beach scene, serene settings, temperate tropical climate, rugged adventure and eco-tourism, amazing natural beauty, and paradisiacal panoramas. As home to Pearl Harbor, Honolulu is also known for its vital role in American history. Tourists flock from all over the world to pay homage at Pearl Harbor Memorial, and at the USS Arizona and the Battleship Missouri Memorials. Visitors also come to Honolulu for a sampling of its vibrant Polynesian culture and traditional Hawaiian cuisine, laidback “hang loose” vibe, cultural diversity, and energetic nightlife. If you are looking to vacation in the city fondly called “The Big Pineapple,” there are a number of luxury hotels you can check out.
#1. The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach
At this Waikiki Beach luxury property, typical hotel rooms give way to stylishly-appointed residential guestrooms. The hotel boasts 552 studios and 246 suites that exude posh comfort, with stunning sea views and separate living areas.
The property is within minutes, on foot, from the beach. It comes as no surprise, then, thatThe Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach is popular with travelers looking to get their fill of the vibrant beach scene while still enjoying all the luxuries and amenities of a 5-star hotel. Dining at the hotel is a culinary showcase, with renowned names such as Dean & Deluca, La Vie, and Sushi Sho.
Impressive amenities include Waikiki’s highest infinity pools, located on the hotel’s eighth floor, with private cabanas and a state-of-the-art fitness center. Aside from relishing Ritz-Carlton’s iconic service and hospitality, guests can enjoy added pampering at the hotel’s premium spa, with its array of bespoke signature treatments that feature customary healing practices of the Hawaiian Islands.
The hotel also has a number of function rooms and outdoor stages to accommodate private events, gatherings, and meetings. It is likewise within walking distance of the Honolulu Convention Center, perfect for business people who wish to meld work and leisure.
#2. ESPACIO, The Jewel of Waikiki
With nine full-floor suites, opulently appointed with luxurious details and fittings like Italian marble finishing and Moroccan latticework, ESPACIO affords oceanfront luxury like few other hotels in the Waikiki area.
Having received the coveted Forbes Travel Guide’s Five-Star Honor, ESPACIO is an exclusive island getaway for the privileged few.
The hotel’s concept restaurant, Mugen, offers an elevated dining experience on Waikiki, with its French-Japanese cuisine that showcases a globally-sourced menu, as well as an array of rare vintages and exceptional spirits.
Along with its luxurious facilities, the hotel extends its elevated yet warm and welcoming brand of high-touch island hospitality to all its guests, helping to make their stay at ESPACIO delightful and unforgettable. Guided by the principle of Omotenashi, which means to anticipate not only the needs but also the wants of every guest, ESPACIO delivers a truly bespoke guest experience in the luxury beach hotel industry.
With facilities like a rooftop infinity swimming pool, whirlpool, and sundeck, there are many opportunities to relax and rejuvenate within the hotel. And, for next-level pampering, ESPACIO Spa offers an array of signature treatments and wellness services. Hotel amenities include butler and concierge service, complimentary in-suite shopping by Neiman Marcus, among others.
#3. Halekulani Hotel
Having opened its doors in 1917, Halekulani Hotel is among Waikiki’s most iconic and historic luxury oceanfront properties. Nestled within five acres of land, this multi-awarded hotel boasts 453 luxurious rooms spread across five buildings. Halekulani, which means “House Befitting Heaven,” welcomes guests with its brand of topnotch Hawaiian hospitality, lauded cuisine, and signature amenities.
Capacious, stylishly-appointed rooms and suites feature stunning views of the ocean and nature-scapes, elegant furnishings, soothing neutral palettes, and luxe amenties that make for a truly comfortable stay. The hotel offers an extensive selection of dining options, from casual to fine dining.
With a total of six bars and restaurants, onsite, guests are spoilt for choice, whether for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or drinks. True to Waikiki’s reputation as being a haven of hospitality and healing, Halekulani Hotel’s Art of Wellbeing wellness center showcases a range of treatments and therapies, all designed for the utmost in rejuvenation and relaxation. Its spa program consists of signature offerings that are rooted in Hawaiian tradition and customary culture.
The hotel likewise offers a number of bespoke guest experiences, put together by its skilled Les Clefs d’Or Concierge staff. Halekulani likewise caters to special events like weddings and corporate functions.
#4. The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort, Waikiki
Fondly known as the “Pink Palace of the Pacific” for its eye-catching pink façade, The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort, Waikiki has been welcoming guests to the island paradise since 1972. With its combination of modern facilities and indigenous character, the hotel offers guests leveled-up, luxurious accommodation, the laidback and leisurely Hawaiian way.
First-rate service, unrivaled amenities, and elegant accommodations make the resort a favorite with travelers looking for a posh paradisiacal hideaway while at Waikiki. The resort offers a private beach area with its signature pink umbrellas and Malulani Pool.
Its location at the starting point of Waikiki makes it ideal for guests looking to visit attractions like Honolulu Zoo and Aloha Tower Marketplace. With its premium Abhasa Spa and its 528 elegantly-appointed guestrooms, including stunning accommodations in the iconic Historic Wing and the awesome Mailani Tower, The Royal Hawaiian exudes the island’s zeal for living life in comfort and cheer. Rooms showcase a lively color scheme, plush furnishing, and opulent fittings, with a cozy vintage touch.
Dining at the hotel features its award-winning Azure Restaurant, the island’s original Mai Tai Bar, the Royal Hawaiian Bakery, and the island’s primary beachfront luau, A Royal Hawaiian Luau – Aha Aina.
#5. The Kahala Hotel & Resort
Located in Honolulu’s upscale Kahala neighborhood on the Big Island of Oahu, The Kahala Hotel & Resort offers premium oceanfront accommodations in the exclusive residential area.
Situated at the tip of Kahala Avenue, embraced by an immaculate white sand beach, the luxury hotel is the only beachfront establishment in the vicinity and is also just minutes away from Waikiki’s shopping and entertainment district. Aside from oceanfront accommodations, the hotel features exciting facilities and amenities like a private dolphin lagoon, a premium spa, five onsite restaurants, as well as free surf lessons.
The Kahala’s 306 elegantly-appointed rooms showcase high-quality fittings and finishes, picturesque views of the ocean or dolphin lagoon, plush furnishing for next-level comfort, and soothing neutral color palettes with cozy wooden accents. Award-winning dining experiences are headed up by Executive Chef Jonathan Mizukami who has worked at Michelin-starred restaurants, worldwide.
.Plus, the hotel’s dining establishments are accredited as “Ocean Friendly Restaurants” with Surfrider Foundation. From its critically acclaimed fine-dining restaurant, Hoku’s, to its beachside, open-air Plumeria Beach House, dining at The Kahala is, indeed, a delight. Meanwhile, Kahala Spa, with its nine expansive treatment rooms and roster of signature luxurious packages, offers guests true pampering indulgence on the island.
#6. Jet Luxury @ The Trump Waikiki
As one of the first luxury 5-star hotels in the vicinity of Waikiki Beach in Honolulu, Oahu, Jet Luxury @ The Trump Waikiki offers travelers a luxurious guest experience for their Hawaiian holiday, whether for business or for pleasure.
With an ideal location a few minutes off Waikiki Beach, the hotel provides easy access to the beach area, as well as to an array of shops and restaurants in the vicinity, all of which are within walking distance. Jet Luxury @ The Trump Waikiki is housed in a thirty-eight story building, affording its guests exquisite panoramas of its stunning environs.
All of its 462 large, stylishly-appointed luxury-apartment-style studios showcase floor-to-ceiling windows with splendid views of Fort De Russy Park, Diamond Head, and the Pacific Ocean, with the Ko’olau Mountains in the background. Each expansive guestroom is meticulously designed to provide the utmost in comfort and elegant sophistication, with conveniences like a fully-equipped kitchenette, entertainment systems and gadgets, and large Italian-marble bathrooms with soaking tubs.
Facilities include a heated infinity roof deck pool with a sundeck, ideal for relaxation; a spa and fully-equipped modern gym; a restaurant with buffet breakfast service and a wide range of cuisine; and a concierge; among others.
#7. Prince Waikiki Honolulu
With an excellent location near transportation hubs, shopping malls, and beaches, Prince Waikiki Honolulu offers travelers the best of Honolulu’s vibrant character.
The hotel is within walking distance of some of the city’s attractions like Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon and Beach, Ala Moana Beach Park, Ala Moana Center, Chinatown, Honolulu’s arts district, the hip Kaka‘ako retail and dining neighborhood, and the Hawaii Convention Center.
With upscale contemporary accommodations, award-winning dining options, an expansive pool with poolside cabanas, club lounges, and access to the renowned Hawaii Prince Golf Club, it’s no wonder that Prince Waikiki Honolulu has received numerous accolades from esteemed travel organizations Like Condé Nast, Travel+Leisure, and TripAdvisor.
The hotel has 528 rooms and suites on its roster; fresh and contemporary in aesthetic, with quaint wooden accents, luxe furnishings, elegant fittings, and floor-to-ceiling windows that afford stunning ocean views. Guests who book Prince Waikiki Club Rooms receive access to the hotel’s exclusive Club Lounge and its roster of perks.
As for dining, the hotel has four restaurants that serve up an array of epicurean offerings, showcasing the best of fresh island cuisine. Prince Waikiki Honolulu is likewise home to one of the most premium spas on the island, Naio Bliss.
#8. Hilton Grand Vacations Club The Grand Islander Waikiki Honolulu
Conveniently situated within the iconic Hilton Hawaiian Village, the Hilton Grand Vacations Club The Grand Islander Waikiki Honolulu provides guests with easy access to a number of restaurants, water sport activities, pools and other recreational facilities, and the Kahanamoku Beach which is just within a few minutes’ walk of the hotel.
The hotel is also in proximity to Hawai’i Convention Center, Downtown Honolulu, and Diamond Head Crater. Stylishly-appointed and luxurious 1-, 2- and 3-bedroom suites and penthouse suites feature fully equipped kitchens, balconies, a sleek and elegant contemporary aesthetic, and stunning island views. Non-smoking suites are likewise available upon request.
Hilton Grand Vacations’ dining offerings are curated to please the palate of travelers looking for a fresh and topnotch dining experience. As such, there is an onsite restaurant at the hotel, as well as a wide array of culinary options available at the Hilton Hawaiian Village.
No matter the gastronomic preference, the occasion, choice of cuisine, or the meal of the day, there’s something to please everyone’s palate. Hilton Grand Vacations Club The Grand Islander Waikiki Honolulu offers numerous facilities and amenities, such as an outdoor pool, a luxe spa, a fully-equipped fitness center, free Wi-Fi, a concierge, among others.
#9. The Laylow, Autograph Collection
This sophisticated hotel, a member of the Marriot Group’s Autograph Collection, melds contemporary chic with a mid-century Hawaiian vibe. With 251 bright and spacious guestrooms and suites, across a variety of room types, guests are sure to find the accommodation that is best-suited to their needs.
The property exudes a charming modern-vintage aesthetic that evokes the feel of Hawaii in the 1960s. Nestled within lush gardens, The Laylow, Autograph Collection hotel affords laidback luxury in a verdant tropical oasis. Capacious guestrooms reflect the hotel’s nostalgic charm, blending authentic décor and modern amenities for an all-around laidback and lighthearted yet lavish ambiance.
With king-sized beds, free Wi-Fi, and relaxing lanais, each of the hotel’s stylish rooms are as comfortable as they are aesthetically pleasing.
As for dining options, The Laylow’s signature restaurant, Hideout, offers a mouthwatering menu of the finest and freshest in Modern Hapa Hawaiian cuisine, with ingredients sourced straight from the ocean and from farms in the locale, and a roster of artisanal cocktails and Hawaiin-made craft beers. Island musicians showcase their live performances, nightly, for added enjoyment.
The hotel also boasts a fully-equipped fitness center and a large saltwater pool that is surrounded by greenery and lounge seating.
#10. Halepuna Waikiki by Halekulani
With 297 stylish and sleek well-appointed guestrooms that feature a bright and contemporary aesthetic, luxe furnishing, mini-bars, private balconies, and stunning views, it’s no wonder that travelers to Honolulu enjoy their stay at Halepuna Waikiki by Halekulani.
Room amenities include all the creature comforts like air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, coffeemakers, phones, free Wi-Fi, safes, complimentary robes, slippers, and toiletries. Ideally located in central Waikiki, this upscale hotel is just a two-minute walk from the sunny shores of Waikiki Beach; it is also near a number of shopping and dining establishments. Because the hotel is set back from the shoreline, it affords travelers a quieter, more peaceful, more private option for their Hawaiian getaway, while still allowing easy-enough access to the area’s sights and scenes.
The hotel is within minutes from Waikiki Beach Walk and Kalakaua Avenue, Waikiki’s main lifestyle hub, and is a short drive to other popular attractions.
Facilities and amenities include an outdoor pool with sundeck, a restaurant and bar, and fitness center, as well as free access to the Bishop Museum, Contemporary Museum, and the Honolulu Academy of Arts. Dining options include a daily breakfast buffet, as well as a delicious array of American and Asian dishes.
#11. Embassy Suites by Hilton Waikiki Beach Walk
This laidback, leisurely Hilton all-suite hotel is just a block away from Waikiki Beach, and minutes away from popular city attractions like the International Marketplace, Hawai’i Convention Center, the Honolulu Zoo, and the Waikiki Aquarium. Embassy Suites by Hilton Waikiki Beach Walk offers 301 one-bedroom suites and 68 two-bedroom suites.
All elegantly-styled suites boast a crisp aesthetic of light neutral tones, plush furnishing, luxe fittings and stunning views of the hotel’s environs, varying from city views, partial and full ocean views, and premium ocean views in corner suites. The expansive, family-friendly suites have ample living space, kitchenettes, balconies, dining areas, and other features.
With the recent property refresh, all suites showcase contemporary elegance with customary Hawaiian aspects, like Kapa Art installations by local artist Dalani Tanahy.
Hotel facilities include an onsite all-day restaurant with American and Japanese dishes, an outdoor pool with a sundeck, a fully-equipped fitness center, private functions rooms for meetings and various events, a business center, an EV charging station, room service, and more.
Amenities include free made-to-order hot breakfast, complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the property and in the suites, complimentary evening reception of snacks and beverages including kid-friendly options, a concierge, non-smoking and pet-friendly rooms, among others.
#12. Aston Waikiki Beach Tower
Ideally located just off the beach, the upscale Aston Waikiki Beach Tower is a one-minute walk away from Waikiki Beach. The hotel is also a short distance away from the Hawaii Convention Center, and is likewise conveniently located within a few minutes of a number of Waikiki’s most popular ocean activities, restaurants, and shops.
This premier all-suite property offers a total of 645 comfortable and expansive suites, with 85% of all guestrooms affording either full or partial ocean views of Waikiki. Stylish accommodations feature thoughtful in-suite amenities like a fully-equipped modern kitchen, ample living and dining spaces, a washing machine and a tumble dryer, a private balcony, flat screen TV, and more, with daily housekeeping and nightly turndown service.
Facilities and amenities include a hospitality lounge for early arrivals and late departures; access to children’s beach toys; a heated outdoor pool for adults, as well as a wading pool for kids; a modern recreation deck with a state-of-the-art fitness center, barbecue grills, an al fresco dining area, billiards, and a jet spa, among numerous other perks.
The hotel also offers a number of complimentary on-site experiences like weekly Yoga classes, weekly Hula lessons, weekly lei-making lessons, and weekly ukulele lessons.
#13. Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach
With cosmopolitan flair, warm Hawaiian hospitality, laidback luxury, and a number of unique guest experiences in store, the ‘Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach is an island refuge like few others. Having opened in 2018, the ‘Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach offers modern amenities and facilities, but with the light and breezy aesthetic of its tropical environs.
Its 839 stylishly-appointed guest rooms and suites are a beautiful reflection of Oahu’s tranquility and serenity, with soothing neutral tones and pops of earth colors creating a calming ambience. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open to private balconies, while affording stunning panoramas. Rooms feature lots of space and plush furnishing for the ultimate in comfort.
Dining at the hotel is an exceptional culinary experience, with Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto’s culinary genius at ‘Alohilani Resort’s signature restaurant, Marimoto Asia, which showcases Chef Morimoto’s Pan-Asian culinary flair. Other dining options include Momosan By Morimoto, Swell Restaurant And Pool Bar, Piccola Onda, and Double Fat Ice Cream.
Facilities and amenities include a picturesque pool with cabanas and a sundeck; a 280,000 gallon Oceanarium in the hotel lobby; the luxurious and cutting-edge Island Club and Spa; Shops at ‘Alohilani, a curated selection of onsite stores and boutiques, and the exclusive Longboard Club.
#14. Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort
This contemporary beachside resort anchored in Hawaiian culture allows you to experience Waikiki in all authenticity. The hotel is situated right at the beachfront, making it a prime location to enjoy all that Waikiki has to offer. With the latest amenities, unparalleled island hospitality, and a focus on relaxation, Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort has become a preferred destination.
With 524 expansive guest rooms and suites, many of which feature private balconies or courtyards, there is an array of luxurious accommodations to suit the needs of every traveler. Guestrooms are newly refurbished, with contemporary elegance and a charming tropical vibe, to embody the feel of a modern Hawaiian home.
The hotel’s iconic onsite restaurant,Kani Ka Pila Grille, serves a variety of fresh island-inspired and traditional Hawaiian food right on Waikiki Beach. With a menu of fresh grilled seafood, Hawaiian culinary favorites, and live island music, dining at Kani Ka Pila Grille is truly an unforgettable island experience.
Meanwhile, Monkeypod Kitchen, the hotel’s new concept restaurant, serves the flavors of the island, and a roster of beers and cocktails. Guests may also enjoy a variety of local arts and crafts, like Hawaiian woodcarving, hula and ukulele lessons, and lei making.
#15. Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa
The Marriott Hotel Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa boasts a location right on Honolulu’s most desirable, most pristine stretch of Waikiki Beach. Aside from its prime beachfront location, this Honolulu offers 1,310 recently remodeled, luxuriously-appointed guestrooms and suites, all of which feature private lanais that provide amazing views of Diamond Head and Waikiki Beach.
Exciting onsite culinary options include Arancino di Mare Italian Restaurant; d.k Steak House; Sansei Seafood Restaurant & Sushi Bar; Kuhio Beach Grill; Queensbreak Bar and Restaurant with the hotel’s lauded Executive Chef Nuno Alves at the helm, and highly-acclaimed live Hawaiian entertainment, nightly; and two Starbucks® locations at the hotel’s Kealohilani Tower.
Topnotch hotel facilities and amenities include an onsite luxury spa; a surf school; two freshwater heated swimming pools; a 10-person whirlpool; a 3,000 sq. ft.,. 24-hour state-of-the art fitness facility; a 24-hour business center with Internet access; high-speed and wireless Internet access in all guest rooms and public areas; a thoughtfully-curated selection of shops and boutiques; and a roster of customary Hawaiian arts, crafts, and other activities that guests may choose to participate in.
The hotel’s Royal Kaila Spa offers a roster of rejuvenating signature treatments and therapies, for next-level pampering on the island.