On my recent trip to Honolulu, I had the pleasure of staying at a top-notch resort and researching several others to provide you with a detailed guide to the best hotels in this stunning city. In this post, I’ll share my personal experience at one hotel and provide objective descriptions of five other highly recommended hotels in Honolulu.
My Stay at the Halekulani Hotel
Location and Booking
Halekulani Hotel is situated at 2199 Kalia Road, Honolulu, on the beautiful island of Oahu. It’s perfectly located on Waikiki Beach, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the iconic Diamond Head crater. Booking my stay was straightforward and convenient. I used the hotel’s official website, but it’s also available on various platforms like Booking.com and Expedia. The price for a standard room starts at approximately $650 per night, depending on the season and availability.
Getting There
Arriving at Halekulani Hotel was a breeze. From Honolulu International Airport (HNL), it’s about a 20-minute drive. I opted for a taxi, which cost around $40, but there are also shuttle services available that range from $16 to $30 per person. If you prefer public transportation, you can take TheBus, which is an economical option.
Environment and Facilities
The environment at Halekulani is serene and luxurious. The hotel is surrounded by lush tropical gardens and has direct access to the pristine sands of Waikiki Beach. The moment I stepped into the hotel, I was greeted by the warm and welcoming staff, who offered me a refreshing tropical drink during check-in.
Halekulani boasts a wide array of facilities, including a stunning heated outdoor pool overlooking the ocean, a fully-equipped fitness center, and the award-winning SpaHalekulani. The hotel also features several dining options: La Mer, an elegant French restaurant; Orchids, offering a delightful mix of international cuisine; and House Without A Key, known for its casual atmosphere and live Hawaiian music.
My Stay Experience
From the moment I checked in, my stay at Halekulani was nothing short of spectacular. My room was spacious and elegantly decorated, with a large balcony offering an unobstructed view of the ocean. The room featured all the modern amenities I could ask for, including a plush king-sized bed, a large flat-screen TV, and a luxurious marble bathroom with a soaking tub.
Each morning, I enjoyed breakfast at Orchids, where the selection was impressive and the food delicious. I particularly loved the fresh fruit platters and the variety of pastries. During the day, I spent time lounging by the pool, sipping cocktails, and occasionally taking a dip in the crystal-clear waters.
In the evenings, I dined at La Mer, where the fine dining experience was impeccable. The attention to detail, the quality of the ingredients, and the level of service were all outstanding. After dinner, I often strolled along the beach or enjoyed a cocktail at House Without A Key, where the live music and hula performances added a magical touch to the night.
Rating
I would rate my experience at Halekulani Hotel a solid 9.5 out of 10. The only slight drawback was the price, but considering the quality of the facilities, the impeccable service, and the breathtaking location, it was well worth it.
Five Top Hotels in Honolulu You Should Consider
1. The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort
The Royal Hawaiian, also known as the “Pink Palace of the Pacific,” is an iconic hotel located at 2259 Kalakaua Avenue, Honolulu. This historic hotel, opened in 1927, is renowned for its distinctive pink façade and prime location on Waikiki Beach.
Location and Booking
The Royal Hawaiian’s central location on Waikiki Beach makes it an ideal choice for visitors who want to be close to the action. The hotel is available for booking through its official website, as well as major travel platforms like Expedia and Hotels.com. Prices for a standard room start at around $550 per night, with various packages and promotions often available.
Getting There
The Royal Hawaiian is approximately 20 minutes from Honolulu International Airport. Guests can choose from various transportation options, including taxis, ride-sharing services, and airport shuttles. Public transportation is also available, with TheBus providing an affordable option.
Environment and Facilities
The Royal Hawaiian is set amidst lush gardens and offers a tranquil oasis in the heart of Waikiki. The hotel’s architecture and design reflect its rich history, with elegant details and a classic Hawaiian aesthetic. The property features two stunning outdoor pools, including the Malulani Pool, which offers a serene setting with private cabanas, and the Helumoa Playground, a family-friendly pool area with waterslides and interactive water features.
The Royal Hawaiian offers a variety of dining options, including the award-winning Azure Restaurant, which specializes in fresh seafood; the Surf Lanai, offering casual dining with a focus on island flavors; and the Mai Tai Bar, known for its signature cocktails and stunning ocean views.
Room Experience
Guest rooms at The Royal Hawaiian are elegantly designed, combining modern comforts with classic Hawaiian decor. Each room features luxurious bedding, a flat-screen TV, a mini-bar, and a spacious bathroom with premium toiletries. Many rooms offer private balconies with views of the ocean, garden, or city.
2. Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina
Located at 92-1001 Olani Street, Kapolei, Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina is a luxurious beachfront resort situated on the sunny west coast of Oahu, approximately 30 minutes from downtown Honolulu. This resort offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of Waikiki, with stunning ocean views and world-class amenities.
Location and Booking
The resort’s location in the exclusive Ko Olina community provides a peaceful and private setting, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation. Booking can be made directly through the Four Seasons website or via major travel platforms like Booking.com and Agoda. Prices for a standard room start at around $850 per night, reflecting the resort’s high-end offerings.
Getting There
From Honolulu International Airport, the Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina is about a 30-minute drive. Guests can arrange for private transfers through the hotel, take a taxi, or use ride-sharing services. Car rentals are also available at the airport for those who prefer to explore the island on their own.
Environment and Facilities
The resort’s lush, tropical grounds are beautifully landscaped, featuring several swimming pools, including an adults-only infinity pool and a family pool with a waterslide. The white-sand beach and calm lagoon are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding.
The Four Seasons offers an impressive array of dining options. La Hiki Kitchen serves a lavish breakfast buffet and island-inspired cuisine for dinner. Mina’s Fish House, created by celebrity chef Michael Mina, offers fresh seafood with a beachfront setting. Noe, the resort’s Italian restaurant, provides a romantic dining experience with exquisite dishes and ocean views.
The resort also features a full-service spa, tennis courts, a fitness center, and a golf course. For families, the Four Seasons offers a kids’ club and a variety of activities to keep younger guests entertained.
Room Experience
Guest rooms at the Four Seasons are spacious and elegantly decorated, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that offer breathtaking views of the ocean or the resort’s gardens. Each room is equipped with luxurious bedding, a large flat-screen TV, a mini-bar, and a marble bathroom with a deep soaking tub and a separate shower. Many rooms also include private balconies or terraces.
3. The Kahala Hotel & Resort
The Kahala Hotel & Resort, located at 5000 Kahala Avenue, Honolulu, is a luxury resort situated in the prestigious Kahala neighborhood, just a short drive from Waikiki. Known for its secluded setting and world-class service, The Kahala offers a tranquil escape with stunning ocean views and luxurious accommodations.
Location and Booking
The Kahala’s location provides a peaceful retreat away from the bustling city, yet it’s only a 15-minute drive from Waikiki. The resort can be booked through its official website or on popular travel sites like Expedia and TripAdvisor. Prices for a standard room start at approximately $600 per night.
Getting There
The Kahala Hotel & Resort is about a 25-minute drive from Honolulu International Airport. Guests can take a taxi, arrange for a private transfer through the hotel, or use ride-sharing services. The resort also offers complimentary shuttle services to Waikiki and Ala Moana Shopping Center.
Environment and Facilities
The Kahala Hotel & Resort is set on a private beach, surrounded by lush tropical gardens. The resort features a beautiful outdoor pool, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a full-service spa offering a range of treatments and therapies.
Dining options at The Kahala are diverse and exceptional. Hoku’s, the resort’s signature restaurant, offers innovative fusion cuisine with stunning ocean views. The Plumeria Beach House provides casual beachfront dining with a variety of international and local dishes. The Veranda serves afternoon tea and light meals, while Seaside Grill offers al fresco dining by the pool.
The resort also features a dolphin lagoon, where guests can interact with dolphins, and a variety of water sports, including kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. The Kahala
is known for its commitment to sustainability, with numerous eco-friendly initiatives in place.
Room Experience
Guest rooms at The Kahala are spacious and elegantly decorated, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that offer stunning views of the ocean or the resort’s gardens. Each room includes luxurious bedding, a flat-screen TV, a mini-bar, and a marble bathroom with a deep soaking tub and a separate shower. Many rooms also feature private balconies.
4. Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach
Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach, located at 2490 Kalakaua Avenue, Honolulu, offers a modern and stylish stay in the heart of Waikiki. With its prime beachfront location and contemporary design, Alohilani is perfect for travelers seeking a vibrant and luxurious experience.
Location and Booking
Alohilani’s central location on Kalakaua Avenue provides easy access to Waikiki Beach, shopping, dining, and nightlife. The resort can be booked directly through its website or on major travel platforms like Booking.com and Hotels.com. Prices for a standard room start at around $400 per night.
Getting There
The resort is about a 20-minute drive from Honolulu International Airport. Guests can take a taxi, use ride-sharing services, or arrange for an airport shuttle. Public transportation options are also available, with TheBus providing an affordable and convenient way to reach the resort.
Environment and Facilities
Alohilani Resort boasts a modern and sophisticated design, with a stunning two-story saltwater oceanarium in the lobby. The resort features a rooftop infinity pool with private cabanas, a full-service fitness center, and a variety of dining options.
Morimoto Asia, the resort’s signature restaurant, offers an innovative menu featuring Asian-inspired dishes created by celebrity chef Masaharu Morimoto. The Swell Pool & Bar serves cocktails and light fare by the pool, while the Lychee offers a delicious breakfast buffet with a variety of options.
The resort also features a full-service spa, a tennis court, and a variety of activities and events, including live music and cultural performances. For families, Alohilani offers a kids’ club and a range of activities to keep younger guests entertained.
Room Experience
Guest rooms at Alohilani are sleek and contemporary, featuring modern decor and luxurious amenities. Each room includes a comfortable bed, a flat-screen TV, a mini-bar, and a spacious bathroom with premium toiletries. Many rooms offer private balconies with views of the ocean or the city.
5. Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa
Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa, located at 2365 Kalakaua Avenue, Honolulu, is a historic beachfront hotel known as the “First Lady of Waikiki.” With its elegant design and prime location on Waikiki Beach, the Moana Surfrider offers a luxurious and timeless stay.
Location and Booking
The Moana Surfrider’s central location on Kalakaua Avenue provides easy access to Waikiki Beach, shopping, dining, and nightlife. The hotel can be booked directly through its website or on major travel platforms like Expedia and Booking.com. Prices for a standard room start at around $450 per night.
Getting There
The resort is about a 20-minute drive from Honolulu International Airport. Guests can take a taxi, use ride-sharing services, or arrange for an airport shuttle. Public transportation options are also available, with TheBus providing an affordable and convenient way to reach the resort.
Environment and Facilities
The Moana Surfrider combines historic charm with modern luxury. The hotel features a stunning outdoor pool, a full-service fitness center, and the Moana Lani Spa, offering a range of treatments and therapies.
Dining options at the Moana Surfrider are diverse and exceptional. The Beachhouse at the Moana offers a fine dining experience with ocean views, while the Veranda serves afternoon tea and light meals. The Banyan Courtyard provides a relaxed setting for cocktails and live music.
The hotel also features a private beach area, a variety of water sports, and a range of activities and events, including historical tours and cultural performances. The Moana Surfrider is known for its commitment to sustainability, with numerous eco-friendly initiatives in place.
Room Experience
Guest rooms at the Moana Surfrider are elegantly designed, combining modern comforts with classic Hawaiian decor. Each room includes luxurious bedding, a flat-screen TV, a mini-bar, and a spacious bathroom with premium toiletries. Many rooms offer private balconies with views of the ocean or the city.
Honolulu offers a wide array of exceptional hotels, each providing unique experiences and top-notch amenities.
Whether you prefer the historical charm of the Moana Surfrider, the modern luxury of Alohilani Resort, the tranquil retreat of The Kahala, the exclusive ambiance of Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina, or the iconic setting of The Royal Hawaiian, you are sure to find the perfect accommodation to suit your needs.
