15 Best Hotels in Hawaii For Your Dream Vacation

Have you ever wondered where paradise-seekers find their perfect stay in the Hawaiian Islands?

Aloha! Planning a trip to Hawaii but feeling overwhelmed by all the hotel choices? Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! Hawaii’s stunning islands offer some of the most beautiful hotels in the world. From fancy resorts with amazing ocean views to cozy spots that won’t break your bank, the best hotels in Hawaii come in all shapes and sizes.

In this guide, I’ll take you through the top 15 best hotels in Hawaii across the major islands. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, you’ll find the perfect place to call home during your Hawaiian dream vacation.

Oahu: The Gathering Place

1. The Royal Hawaiian (Waikiki)

The “Pink Palace of the Pacific” stands out with its bright pink walls and rich history. This hotel opened in 1927 and offers a perfect mix of old Hawaiian charm and modern luxury. The Royal Hawaiian sits right on Waikiki Beach, giving guests easy access to the famous shoreline. With its amazing restaurants and special Hawaiian-style rooms, it’s no wonder this is considered one of the best hotels in Hawaii for those who want to experience a piece of island history while enjoying top-notch service.

2. Turtle Bay Resort (North Shore)

If you want to escape the busy Waikiki area, Turtle Bay Resort on Oahu’s North Shore is a perfect choice. This resort sits on a point with ocean views in almost every direction. Guests love the big rooms, five miles of beaches, and fun activities like horseback riding and surfing. During winter, you might even spot whales from your balcony!

3. Moana Surfrider (Waikiki)

Known as the “First Lady of Waikiki,” this was the first hotel built on Waikiki Beach in 1901. The Moana Surfrider blends Victorian style with Hawaiian touches. The hotel’s huge banyan tree in the courtyard gives a perfect shady spot to enjoy afternoon tea or evening drinks while listening to the waves.

Maui: The Valley Isle

4. Grand Wailea Resort (Wailea)

This massive resort is a favorite among the best hotels in Hawaii for families. The Grand Wailea has a pool system with slides, rapids, and a water elevator that kids love! Adults enjoy the beautiful art throughout the property, the amazing spa, and the golden sand beach right outside. The rooms are big and comfortable, many with ocean views that will take your breath away.

5. Ritz-Carlton Kapalua (Kapalua)

Sitting on 54 acres of beautiful land and next to a marine life conservation area, the Ritz-Carlton offers luxury with a focus on Hawaiian culture. The hotel runs cultural programs where guests can learn about local traditions. With six restaurants, two golf courses, and a wonderful spa, it’s easy to see why many consider this one of the best hotels in Hawaii.

6. Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort (Wailea)

For those who like modern style, the Andaz Maui offers sleek design with a laid-back island vibe. This hotel has four infinity pools that seem to flow right into the ocean. Farm-to-table dining and rooms with clean lines and natural materials make this a top pick for style-conscious travelers.

Kauai: The Garden Isle

7. Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa (Poipu)

With mountains on one side and the ocean on the other, the Grand Hyatt Kauai has some of the most beautiful surroundings of any of the best hotels in Hawaii. The hotel looks like an old Hawaiian village with open courtyards and gardens. The pool area has river pools, waterfalls, and a slide, making it feel like a water park in paradise.

8. Koa Kea Hotel & Resort (Poipu)

If you prefer smaller, more personal hotels, Koa Kea might be your perfect match. With just 121 rooms, this boutique hotel offers a quieter experience than the big resorts. Its location on Poipu Beach gives guests great swimming and snorkeling right outside their door. The restaurant, Red Salt, is known as one of the best on the island.

9. Princeville Resort (North Shore)

Perched on a cliff overlooking Hanalei Bay, the views from Princeville Resort are simply magical. This luxury hotel makes you feel like royalty with its excellent service and beautiful design. The infinity pool seems to blend right into the ocean, creating photo opportunities that will make your friends jealous!

Big Island: The Island of Hawaii

10. Four Seasons Resort Hualalai (Kona)

Many travelers and critics rank this as not just one of the best hotels in Hawaii but one of the best in the world. The Four Seasons Hualalai combines luxury with Hawaiian culture in a perfect way. Seven pools include one carved out of natural lava rock and another that’s home to a fish pond. Rooms are in small two-story buildings spread across the property, giving a sense of space and privacy.

11. Mauna Kea Beach Hotel (Kohala Coast)

Founded by Laurance Rockefeller in 1965, this historic hotel sits on one of Hawaii’s most perfect beaches. The simple, elegant design lets the natural beauty shine. The hotel houses an amazing collection of Pacific and Asian art, and its golf course is famous for its challenging third hole that stretches over the ocean.

12. Fairmont Orchid (Kohala Coast)

With a sheltered beach and calm waters, the Fairmont Orchid is great for families who want safe swimming. The hotel offers special treatments in waterfall huts at the Spa Without Walls. Many guests love the Hawaiian cultural activities, including outrigger canoe experiences and ukulele lessons.

Lanai: The Pineapple Isle

13. Four Seasons Resort Lanai

After a huge makeover, this Four Seasons property has become one of the most luxurious best hotels in Hawaii. With an adults-only pool, beautiful gardens, and a nobu restaurant, it offers top-level luxury. The rooms have all the latest technology and beautiful views of the gardens or ocean.

Molokai: The Friendly Isle

14. Hotel Molokai

For a more authentic Hawaiian experience away from big resorts, Hotel Molokai offers simple but comfortable rooms in a peaceful setting. This hotel looks like a Polynesian village with bungalows on stilts. While not as fancy as other best hotels in Hawaii on this list, it gives a true feel of old Hawaii and great value.

Honolulu: The Heart of Hawaii

15. Halekulani Hotel (Waikiki)

“House Befitting Heaven” is the meaning of Halekulani, and this hotel lives up to its name. Known for amazing service, the hotel staff treats every guest like family. The oceanfront pool has an orchid mosaic made of thousands of glass tiles. For many repeat visitors, no other place compares when looking for the best hotels in Hawaii.

Tips for Choosing Among the Best Hotels in Hawaii

When picking from the best hotels in Hawaii, think about:

• Island choice: Each island has its own feel. Oahu is busy with lots to do, Maui is good for first-timers, Kauai is more natural and quiet, and the Big Island offers diverse landscapes.
• Hotel style: Do you want a big resort with lots of activities or a smaller hotel with a more personal touch?
• Budget: Hawaii hotels can be expensive. Look for deals in the slow seasons (spring and fall).
• Location: Beachfront hotels cost more but save you the trouble of driving to beaches.
• Activities: Some hotels have great pools and beaches right there, while others are better starting points for island exploring.

FAQs About the Best Hotels in Hawaii

Q: When is the best time to visit Hawaii? A: The best weather is from April to October, but it’s also more crowded and expensive then. September-November and January-May offer good weather with fewer crowds and better hotel rates.

Q: Do I need a rental car if I’m staying at a resort? A: It depends on your plans. If you want to explore beyond your resort, a rental car is helpful. Some resorts are quite isolated, especially on the Big Island.

Q: Are there all-inclusive resorts in Hawaii? A: Unlike Mexico or the Caribbean, true all-inclusive resorts are rare in Hawaii. Some hotels offer packages that include breakfast or resort credits.

Q: How far in advance should I book my hotel? A: For the best rates and availability, book 3-6 months ahead, especially if you’re traveling during peak seasons (summer and winter holidays).

Q: Are Hawaii hotels family-friendly? A: Many are! Look for resorts with kids’ clubs, family pools, and activities for children. The Grand Wailea and Aulani Disney Resort are especially popular with families.

Q: What’s the difference between ocean view and oceanfront rooms? A: Oceanfront rooms directly face the ocean, while ocean view rooms might only have a partial view or be set further back. Oceanfront rooms are usually more expensive.

Hawaii welcomes you with its warm aloha spirit, and these best hotels in Hawaii are ready to make your island dreams come true. Whether you choose a luxury resort or a charming boutique hotel, the magic of Hawaii will surely make your stay unforgettable.