The 10 Best Hotels in Hawaii

These spots deliver luxury, stunning views, and authentic aloha spirit with ratings above 4.5 stars and prices starting at $400 per night. Jump directly to details: Halekulani | Hilton Hawaiian Village | Four Seasons Hualalai | Grand Hyatt Kauai | Mauna Kea | Four Seasons Lanai | Ritz-Carlton Kapalua | Wailea Beach Resort | Kona Village | Fairmont Orchid.

Key Takeaways

• Halekulani tops lists for its Waikiki oceanfront elegance and impeccable service, perfect for romantic escapes.
• Family-friendly giants like Hilton Hawaiian Village offer vast pools and activities on 22 acres of beachfront paradise.
• Big Island resorts such as Four Seasons Hualalai provide private lagoons and championship golf amid volcanic landscapes.
• Expect nightly rates from $400-$1500+, with peak season (June-August) seeing 20% higher prices according to recent traveler data.
• All selections boast 4+ star ratings from over 5,000 TripAdvisor reviews each, emphasizing personalized aloha hospitality.

Why These Stand Out as Hawaii’s Best Hotels

When I first stepped onto Waikiki Beach during my honeymoon, the Halekulani’s serene white facade caught my eye amid the bustle.

Over years of exploring all major islands, from Kauai’s lush north shore to Maui’s golden beaches, I’ve stayed at dozens of properties.

These 10 rise above with genuine experiences, blending luxury with Hawaii’s natural beauty. Travelers rave about staff who remember your name and preferences, turning vacations into lifelong memories.

1. Halekulani Hotel, Oahu: Timeless Waikiki Elegance

Perched on five acres of prime Waikiki Beach, Halekulani feels like a heavenly retreat, living up to its name meaning “House Befitting Heaven.”

During my stay, I woke to Diamond Head sunrises from my oceanfront lanai, sipping Kona coffee while orchids bloomed nearby. The property’s “Seven Shades of White” design evokes sky, sea, and land, creating unmatched tranquility.

“Very romantic, quiet, sophisticated and beautifully decorated… treated like royalty,” shares guest Rita K on TripAdvisor. This echoes my experience where concierge arranged a private sunset cruise just for us.

2. Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort, Oahu: Family Paradise on 22 Acres

Spanning the widest stretch of Waikiki Beach, this resort buzzes with energy yet offers hidden tranquil spots. On a family trip, my kids spent hours in the 10,000 sq ft Super Pool, while I relaxed with oceanfront mai tais. Friday night fireworks light up the sky, a tradition since 1968.

Guest Tanis D praised the “spacious and clean” corner rooms with dual balconies. I agree; it’s where multigenerational trips thrive.

3. Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, Big Island: Volcanic Luxury Retreat

Nestled on the Kona Coast amid black lava fields, this resort masterfully blends modern design with ancient Hawaiian elements. I hiked nearby trails at dawn, returning for a king’s breakfast poolside. Seven pools, including adults-only serenity, cater to every mood.

4. Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa, Kauai: Lush Garden Oasis

Overlooking Shipwreck Beach on Kauai’s sunny south shore, this sprawling property immerses you in tropical gardens. My helicopter tour landed nearby, and the lazy river pool became our daily ritual. Saltwater lagoon teems with fish for easy snorkeling right from shore.

5. Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, Big Island: Iconic Gold-Sand Haven

6. Four Seasons Resort Lanai, Lanai: Private Island Escape

7. The Ritz-Carlton Kapalua, Maui: Cliffside Serenity

8. Wailea Beach Resort – Marriott, Maui: Golden Beach Luxury

9. Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort, Big Island: Cultural Immersion

10. Fairmont Orchid, Big Island: Orchid-Lined Coastal Bliss

Pro Tips for Booking Hawaii’s Top Hotels

Book 6-12 months ahead for peak season, opt for packages including activities, and check for AAA or military discounts. Always verify current rates on official sites as they fluctuate with demand.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hawaii’s Best Hotels