The homeland of surfing, the Hawaiian Islands in the United States each have their unique aspects from community engagement, to natural beauty, and beautiful sandy beaches. It is the perfect place for beach bums and surf goers.
When travelers visit Hawaii, most of them stay or spend time in the largest populated city on Oahu, Honolulu, due to the high-rise hotels with ocean views. There is a cruise port for cruise ships to explore top sights like Pearl Harbor and museums.
For travelers, Oahu may be the main island in Hawaii with its endless attractions and bustling nightlife. You can also travel to the west side of the island of Oahu for a quieter atmosphere.
However, there are other islands worth checking out if you're the type of traveler that wants to avoid crowded beaches like Waikiki and venture to hidden gems.
Whether you're looking to stay in Waikiki Beach or travel to another island with luxury hotels like Maui, there is a place among the major islands for everyone in Hawaii.
Here's the scoop on the best places and best areas to stay in Hawaii for every traveler!
Best Places in Hawaii
Hawaii is a destination filled with nightlife, natural beauty, and stunning beaches. Depending on your preference as a traveler, here are some of the best places to stay while in Hawaii!
- Honolulu
- Wailea
- Kapaa
- Waikoloa
- Lahaina
Best Hotels in Hawaii
1. Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort
A hotel ideal for families traveling to Oahu, the Hilton Hawaiian Village has direct access to the famous Waikiki Beach with activities like shopping and dining for the whole family. Hilton Hawaiian Village is a top-rated resort striving to provide helpful service to every guest.
With some rooms showcasing the stunning waters of Waikiki Beach, there are balconies spacious enough to include chairs for the entire family. While the spacious rooms may be decked out in modern decor, there are still a few small accents of Hawaiian culture.
2. Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa
In Kapolei, this kid-friendly Disney resort is one of the best hotels on the island in part of its close proximity to Highway 1, Wet n' Wild Hawaii Water Park, and the Pearl Harbor Museum. Aulani provides Hawaii-themed rooms overlooking Kohola Lagoon with exceptional service.
While some rooms have ocean views, every room is paired with a nice balcony or terrace with free wifi and coffeemakers.
Since the Disney resort is kid-friendly, there is a range of amenities to keep kids busy during their entire stay such as outdoor pools, entertaining Disney characters, and movie nights.
3. Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa
One of the most romantic hotels on Hawaii Island, Kauai, this 5-star hotel is a tropical oasis surrounded by gardens. Not only is this one of the best luxury resorts in a great location for sightseeing but is also a 30-minute drive from Lihue Airport.
While staying in this resort, travelers take time to explore Shipwreck Beach, Poipu Beach, and the golf course. This Grand Hyatt Resort offers guests a breathtaking landscape of Kauai, the Garden Isle of Hawaii, with comfy rooms inspired by the local culture.
4. The Modern Honolulu
A contemporary resort only 1 mile from Waikiki Beach, The Modern Honolulu is one of the best places to stay in Oahu. Once guests check-in, it is a short walk to the main attraction, Ala Moana Shopping Center to find popular department stores or charming boutiques.
While the location of the hotel provides easy access to top attractions, this high-rise hotel features elegant rooms and suites with views of the ocean, city, pool, and harbor. Guests can also dine in the upscale restaurants on the property.
5. Mauna Kea Beach Hotel
A 4-star hotel in Waimea, this hotel is an oceanfront paradise located on the soft white beach of Kauna'oa Bay. While guests have opportunities to kayak, surf, and snorkel, this luxury resort boasts flavorful cuisine inspired by the local culture as well as the Mandara Spa and award-winning sports.
Spend the day relaxing in the comfy, tropical-style rooms overlooking the crystal clear waters and the beautiful beaches.
6. The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
One of the best resorts in Maui for couples, this upscale hotel is only a 2-minute walk from Kapalua Bay Beach. Visitors can also explore Honolua Bay where snorkeling and surfing are prominent during the summer. Alongside the great location and friendly staff, this luxurious Maui resort is a paradise nestled within palm trees.
7. Wai Ola Vacation Paradise
This romantic guesthouse in West Maui is an adults-only, budget-friendly oasis close to the beach in Wahikuli Park. Even though this boutique place allows several guests, each family has their own space with a shared pool and balconies.
Wai Ola is a great spot that features 4 units ranging from a honeymoon cottage to a studio with subtle Hawaiian art decor with private kitchenettes and entrances.
8. Hamakua Guesthouse
A good location for sightseeing, this laid-back, budget-friendly guesthouse off the main road is set in an agricultural area, 4 miles from Akaka Falls State Park and Hakalau Beach Park.
While the interior may not rival luxurious hotels, this relaxing guesthouse features rooms that remind guests of home with cabin-inspired furniture. The common areas of the guesthouse include the kitchen, dining room, and living space.
9. Royal Kona Resort
Located on the Big Island of Hawaii, Royal Kona is a fairly expensive resort in one of the best locations on the Big Island due to its close proximity to historical landmarks, beaches, and parks.
After relaxing by the pool overlooking the ocean, walk or drive to the Hulihe'e Palace and Kahalu'u Beach Park. For couples and families, the resort rooms are comfortable and spacious with a plethora of amenities and restaurants to make the most of your vacation.
10. Hotel Moloka'i
Close to the main town of Kaunakakai, Hotel Moloka'i is an oceanfront hotel with traditional island-themed rooms in Polynesian-style bungalows.
Even though guests book this hotel for a relaxing getaway, the excellent service, and friendly staff reminds them of home. The best aspects of this hotel are the weekly drinks reception, outdoor pool, and on-site parking.
11. Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort
One of the most dreamy resorts in Waikiki on the north shore of Oahu, this 4-star hotel has easy access to the best things like designer stores, cocktail bars, fine dining, and Kuhlo Beach hula shows.
The oceanfront resort rests on the Waikiki shore with gorgeous blue and white rooms providing enough room for the entire family with water sports activities.
After visiting Fort DeRussy Beach Park of Hanauma Bay, spend time at the resort with nightly Hawaiian music while indulging in the local cuisine.
12. The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort
One of the best resorts on the Hawaiian Islands, The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort is nestled within tropical gardens along Hapuna Beach. Overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this upscale resort is only 3 miles from Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area and 27 miles from Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport.
While the resort offers a tropical paradise for guests with the outdoor pool surrounded by palm trees, the rooms are fairly modern with comfortable furnishings.
13. Hilton Waikoloa Village
A great place to stay on the Big Island, Hilton Waikoloa Village is a polished resort with breathtaking sunset views over the water. The rooms feature comfortable beds and space to move around as guests soak in the breeze from their terrace or balcony.
Since the resort stretches across 62 acres of land along the Kohala Coast, there is a tram system for guests to see and experience all of the amenities on site.
With plenty of lagoons for snorkeling on the Big Island, it comes as no surprise that the resort has a black sand beach and a swimming lagoon with green sea turtles, dolphins, and opportunities for paddle boarding and kayaking.
14. Ho'oilo House Bed and Breakfast
A Balinese-inspired bed and breakfast in Maui, Ho'olio House is a wonderful place to stay while visiting the second largest island in Hawaii due to its close proximity to Kaanapali Beach and historic Lahaina.
One of the most unique parts about this bed and breakfast is the outdoor shower and the relaxing bathtub close by.
The Ho'oilo House also strives to provide a retreat-inspired getaway with the meditation gazebo alongside tropical plants, flowers, and water features.
15. Four Seasons Resort Hualalai
If you're looking for one of the best places to stay in Hawaii, this luxurious hotel and five-star resort on the Big Island is one that should be considered when finding a resort in a prime location of top attractions.
Within tropical greenery and a contemporary design, Four Seasons Resort Hualalai is a beachfront paradise only a few miles away from the tourist destination, Kekaha Kai State Park, and Kona International Airport.
Wake up feeling refreshed with their cozy rooms, private pools, tennis courts, and ocean views.
Soak in the live music, outdoor swimming pool, and the white sand of the beach just steps away.
16. Kauai Shores Hotel
One of the best places to stay on Kauai, this functional hotel is an excellent choice that dips guests into the Hawaii island life with colorful rooms and private balconies and terraces.
Kauai Shores Hotel is an ideal location for tourists with plenty of sightseeing places including Wailua River State Park, Na Pali Coast State Park, and the Nonou Forest Reserve. Their top amenities ensure guests relax and have fun with yoga classes and 2 outdoor pools.
17. The Laylow Resort
In Honolulu, The Laylow combines modern designs with island influences all within a 6-minute walk from Waikiki Beach and a few miles from the Diamond Head hiking area.
Besides the colorful rooms and balconies, the resort offers free Wi-Fi, a casual Hawaiian restaurant, and a pool surrounded by lush plants. This resort is also pet-friendly and great for families and couples.
18. The Imperial Hawaii Resort
One of the best hotels in Honolulu with a kitchen, this casual hotel sits in a great location with easy access to Waikiki Beach and the peak of Diamond Head. You also have easy access to some of the best beaches on the island.
The pull-out beds and kitchenettes make the hotel both family and couple friendly. After exploring the resort, visit the 24-hour diner, deli, and rooftop outdoor pool.
19. Hali'i Kai at Waikoloa
Explore the Big Island, home to active volcanoes, and the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park while staying at this tropical resort with villas.
While the resort provides more privacy for guests, the location is also ideal for spending a day at Waikoloa Beach and Pu'ukohola Heiau National Historic Site. What makes this resort kid-friendly is the splash pool with access to the Waikoloa golf course.
20. Hale Koa Hotel
Located along Kahanamoku Beach, Hale Koa Hotel is a great place and the best location to stay for a family vacation in Hawaii with its close proximity to Honolulu Zoo, Diamond Head, and the Iolani Palace.
The airy and cozy decorated rooms feature minifridges and balconies with ocean and garden views.
After dropping off your luggage in your room, dine in one of the 4 restaurants on the property, and take advantage of a relaxing spa experience.
21. Lava Lava Beach Club Waikoloa
A hotel set on the Anaeho'omalu Bay waterfront, this resort is comprised of cottages with direct access to Waikoloa Beach. Lava Lava Beach Club is a place bustling with night entertainment amidst a tropical oasis.
The modern cottages blend teak furnishings and colorful tropical prints with locally made toiletries and ukuleles. The resort also allows guests free access to paddle boards and bikes with an open-air beach restaurant.
22. Aston Maui Kaanapali Villas
Relax and take your time soaking in the local Hawaiian culture at the Aston Maui Kaanapali Villas. These villas feature tropical accents and Hawaiian-inspired furnishings surrounded by palm trees.
Since the resort is nestled in a great location near Kaanapali Beach, this is one of the best places to stay in Maui. With a plethora of amenities such as golf courses, a fitness center, and a spa, there are many ways to take advantage of your stay in this good place.
23. White Sands Hotel
A budget-friendly hotel located 2 blocks from Waikiki Beach and the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center, White Sands features a private balcony and comfortable rooms with island-inspired accents.
After exploring the charming hotel on one of the most popular islands, visit the Iolani Palace and Diamond Head.
24. Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort
Find your home away from home retreat shaped by nature and the local culture. This relaxing resort embraces Hawaiian culture while providing the top culinary experiences and an impressive collection of pools such as Hibiscus Pool and a Tarzan swing.
While the resort embraces privacy and balance, Grand Wailea is close to Wailea Beach and top airports like Molokai and Lanai.
25. Plantation Hale Suites
Located in Kapa'a on the east side of Kauai, this charming hotel surrounded by greenery welcomes families and couples. For travelers looking to dive into the natural scenery, Plantation Hale is under 10 miles from Wailua Falls and the botanical garden at Smith's Tropical Paradise.
Slow down and take in the Hawaiian breeze on your private balcony and then relax in one of the outdoor pools.
26. MaKai Sunset Inn
Find your ideal Maui getaway at the MaKai Sunset Inn in Lahaina. The upscale hotel provides a lush setting with island-inspired rooms and dedicated staff. After exploring the hotel, take a short drive to Kaanapali Beach and the Old Lahaina Luau.
27. Hotel Coral Reef
Spend time in Kapa'a while staying at a budget-friendly hotel like Hotel Coral Reef. This casual and comfortable hotel is within walking distance from Folkstone Marine Park and Museum as well as Kapaa town shops and restaurants.
While some of the tropical rooms have ocean views, the hotel offers free continental breakfast, a sauna, a lagoon-style pool, and organic smoothies.
28. Pagoda Hotel
One of the most affordable hotels in the heart of downtown Honolulu, Pagoda Hotel offers access to iconic shopping spots, beaches, and restaurants.
The rooms featured in Pagoda Hotel mix modern touches with Hawaiian-inspired colors and furnishings. A unique aspect of the hotel is the sun terrace with dining views of nature.
29. Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa
Have a gorgeous view of palm trees and the ocean while staying at the Sheraton resort in Maui. Even though the hotel is decked out in modern guest rooms, there are a few subtle accents inspired by the local culture.
Hang out in the beautiful lounge area that provides a great gathering place for family, friends, and networking retreats.
Take time to visit Kaanapali Beach, Kapalua Bay Beach, and Whalers Village. This is a great resort for beach bums and for people who love water slides.
30. Aston Islander on the Beach
One of the best hotels in Kapa'a, the Aston Islander is a beautiful beachfront hotel featuring a sparkling pool, lush gardens, a hot tub, and a poolside bar.
The great area of this hotel makes it ideal for families and couples escaping the crowds as well as nature lovers with access to Wailua Falls and the Smith Family Garden Luau.
Places to Stay in Hawaii Guide
Whether you decide to stay on the island of Oahu and stay at the Kahala Hotel & Resort, Ko Olina Resort, Turtle Bay Resort, or stay in a residential neighborhood on Kauai Island, natural beauty is always nearby.
Depending on the island, locals and budget travelers alike have access to unique activities like snorkeling in man-made lagoons, coral reefs, or horseback riding. There is no "best island" in Hawaii as it depends on the main reason why you visit. Find the ideal place that speaks to you.
The next time you book your hotel in the summer or winter months, look for one that meets your budget with a wide range of amenities and easy access to tourist attractions. These travel tips will make your trip a little bit easier, especially when going for the first time.
The great thing about staying in what is sometimes referred to as part of the west coast, Hawaii is there is a variety of accommodating options like a high-end resort with a private lanai, vacation rentals, guest houses, Airbnb, and bed and breakfasts.
That's the scoop on the best places to stay in Hawaii!
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