Image courtesy of The Royal Hawaiian, A Luxury Collection Resort, Waikiki
Waikiki is arguably the best area to stay in Oahu, and certainly where to stay in Honolulu—Hawai'i’s capital—for leisure. It’s home to the islands’ best designer shopping and most diverse dining, and is close to major sites like the Pearl Harbor Memorial and Iolani Palace. It’s also where you’ll find the world-famous Waikiki Beach.
“Waikiki has a rhythm all its own, and the top hotel picks capture both the energy and elegance of this famous stretch of beach,” Fora X Advisor Seasen Acevedo-Zullo said.
Below, our expert Fora travel advisors give their take on Waikiki’s best hotels and resorts.
The best hotels in Waikiki, Honolulu
Read on for the best hotels in Waikiki.
The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach
Image courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach
The Ritz-Carlton Waikiki Beach is where to stay in Honolulu for luxe, extended-stay accommodations. In early 2025, a group of Fora Advisors stayed at the hotel as part of a familiarization trip—the praise was universal.
“This property and the wonderful people who work there flawlessly deliver the exceptional service levels Ritz-Carlton is known for,” Fora Advisor Julia Burke said.
The residences are split between two high-rise towers just steps away from Waikiki Beach and Kalākaua Avenue (sometimes called “Luxury Row”). Downtown Honolulu and Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) are under 30 minutes away traffic in Honolulu can be gnarly).
“The location strikes the perfect balance of being close to the action while also creating ample opportunities for pure relaxation with gorgeous ocean views,” Julia added.
All rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows with balconies and ocean views, plus full kitchens, washer/dryers, marble bathrooms, and a thoughtful, contemporary design. Expect bright rooms with sleek furnishings and local art.
“It feels like a luxury home base with all the perks of a resort,” Fora Advisor Jennifer Singleton said.
Accommodations range from studios to four-bedroom suites to three-story Sky Penthouses with private amenities, like rooftop plunge pools and hot tubs.
Given the apartment-style accommodations, it’s easy to forget that The Ritz-Carlton, Waikiki Beach is still a resort (if not one of the best hotels in Hawai'i). Amenities include two heated pools—one for adults with private cabanas available, one for all guests—a spa, fitness center, and yoga studio. There’s even a stylist available by appointment. On-site dining includes fine Italian, sushi, and a Fora Advisor favorite, Solera, which serves upscale Hawai'ian cuisine.
“Solera is a fresh, lively dining experience with a casual-yet-elegant open-air setting,” Fora Advisor Taryn Anderson said. “It’s an easygoing spot to enjoy breakfast (try the ube pancakes!), lunch, sunset cocktails, or a casual dinner with ocean views.”
Though the property is marketed for extended-stays, there’s only a two-night minimum (but you’ll likely want to stay longer).
Fora’s Marriott STARS partner perks include a $100 hotel credit, a welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa, Waikiki Beach
Image courtesy of Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa, Waikiki Beach
Moana Surfrider has been one of the best hotels in Waikiki since 1901, when it opened as Honolulu’s first luxury beachfront hotel. The late Victorian architecture of its original structure surrounds an old banyan tree. Over the decades, numerous VIPs have used Moana Surfrider as their base. This history landed the “First Lady of Waikiki” on the National Register of Historic Places.
Moana Surfrider offers “a great blend of charm and activity,” Jennifer said. “It feels lively, with a big, beautiful front porch, live music in the evenings, and that classic banyan tree out back.”
The hotel’s location is hard to beat: It faces Waikiki Beach on one side, and Kalākaua Avenue on the other. Rooms are split between three distinct wings: Banyan, Diamond, and the Tower. The Banyan Wing preserves the hotel’s original Victorian design—think ornate columns, high ceilings, and stained-glass details. The Diamond Wing was formed out of another historic hotel, and embodies early surf culture with an upscale twist. The Tower has a modern Hawai'ian aesthetic befitting its high-rise setting on Kalākaua.
There’s an oceanfront spa, fitness center, yoga sessions on the property’s courtyard, paddleboard rentals, and Hawai'ian cultural classes, like lei-making or ukulele lessons. Savor fine Hawai'ian and classic American dishes ranging from hearty breakfasts at The Veranda to lite bites at Surfrider Cafe. Enjoy cocktails at the pool bar. For a refined experience, Beachhouse at the Moan serves fresh local seafood, prime steak, and Hawai'ian-inspired tasting menus.
Note: Moana Surfrider is undergoing phased renovations through spring 2026 in honor of its 125th anniversary. It’s still welcoming guests through this period, and construction is limited to normal weekday hours.
Fora’s Marriott LUMINOUS partner perks include a $100 hotel credit, a welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
ESPACIO The Jewel of Waikiki
Image courtesy of ESPACIO The Jewel of Waikiki
ESPACIO isn’t just the “Jewel of Waikiki,” it’s a Fora Reserve partner and one of the best hotels in Oahu—particularly if you’re looking for an exclusive, ultra-luxe option at the center of Waikiki Beach. Despite the prime location, great care has been taken to ensure ESPACIO feels like a private retreat. There are only nine suites. Each is individually styled and takes up an entire floor (around 2,250 square feet). These suites feature expansive living areas, private balconies with Jacuzzis, and kitchens that would make any private chef envious. Single-bedroom suites also include a workspace, while two- and three-bedroom suites cater to families, groups, or couples who want more space (Oahu is an underrated choice as the best island to visit in Hawai'i for couples). All have elegant touches from around the world, like Moroccan metal accents and Italian marble surfaces.
The hotel lives by Omotenashi-style hospitality, a Japanese philosophy that aims to anticipate and address every need. Expect personalized, round-the-clock service. This extends to ESPACIO’s on-site restaurant, Mugen, a sophisticated space that celebrates elevated international ingredients: Japanese A5 wagyu, Maine lobster, Maui venison, along with an extensive sake menu. If you prefer to stick to your suite, ESPACIO offers a private Kaiseki experience (a traditional Japanese multi-course meal).
Fora Reserve perks include a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort And Spa
Image courtesy of Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort And Spa
Hyatt Regency is one of the best hotels in Waikiki if you want a property that balances high-end amenities with approachable rates. The hotel’s twin towers—Ewa and Diamond Head, named after nearby beaches—surround a three-story, open-air mall filled with recognizable retailers and eateries. Fora Advisor Ashly Petropulos highlighted the resort’s “unbeatable” ocean views, spacious rooms, and prime location on Kalākaua Avenue near the center of Waikiki.
Entry-tier rooms have city or ocean views and either one king or two queen beds. A selection of one- and two-bedroom suites have elevated Hawai'ian-inspired décor, more space, and private lanais. The highest tier of suites have full kitchens. All rooms and suites have private balconies. On-site amenities include a large outdoor pool and poolside bar, 24-hour gym, a cultural center that hosts Hawai'ian craft classes, and a spa. Also enjoy an all-day buffet, Hawai'ian food at Shor, or any of the eateries in the atrium below the hotel’s towers.
Fora’s Hyatt Privé partner perks include a $100 resort credit, a welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Halekulani Hotel Honolulu
Image courtesy of Halekulani Hotel Honolulu
Halekulani, the “house befitting heaven” in Hawai'ian, is one of the oldest and most luxurious hotels in Waikiki. You wouldn’t know this property was over 100 years old from visiting, however.
“The Halekulani is synonymous with timeless elegance; it’s one of Honolulu’s most iconic five-star resorts,” Fora X Advisor Anson Tan said. “You are immediately greeted by the famed ‘seven shades of white’ aesthetic and treated to culinary excellence at La Mer.”
La Mer is a rare fusion of Hawai'ian ingredients and famous dishes from the South of France. The ballotine duck foie gras, for example, uses a banana-vanilla whiskey marmalade rather than a traditional wine or brandy-based reduction. La Mer also has one of Oahu’s most extensive wine collections. Another restaurant, the open-air Orchids, is semi-formal, and serves coastal Italian fare. Halekulani Bakery has fresh pastries and coffee, and House Without a Key is one of Honolulu’s most famous restaurants. Here you can enjoy live Hawai'ian-themed entertainment while enjoying casual, local dishes and cocktails.
Unlike many of the best hotels in Waikiki, Halekulani is on the northernmost stretch of Waikiki Beach, a couple blocks away from Kalākaua Avenue. A narrow boardwalk replaces the shoreline immediately in front of the hotel—don’t worry, you’re still steps away from the beach—which grants the property a rare sense of privacy and quiet in Waikiki.
“Halekulani is where I send my discerning travelers for unmatched refinement and restorative beauty,” Anson added.
You’ll love the hotel’s lagoon-style swimming pool, lined with glass mosaic tiles to ethereal effect. There’s a Hawai'ian-themed spa, luxe salon, fitness center, and surfing classes, too.
Halekulani also operates one of the best places to stay in Okinawa, Japan.
Fora Perks include a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Wayfinder Waikiki
Wayfinder is a colorful, design-forward boutique hotel that feels down to earth, thematic, and approachable. Cozy rooms and spacious suites with custom furnishings serve as a vibey base for exploring Waikiki. The vibe is bohemian, fun, and distinctly Hawai'ian. The hotel’s on Ala Wai boulevard, which runs parallel to the canal that separates Waikiki from the rest of Honolulu. It’s a few blocks from the beach, but still within walking distance. If you want to cool off immediately, Wayfinder has a huge saltwater pool surrounded by a jungle garden.
Grab fresh Hawai'ian poke at the on-site Redfish Poke & Bowls. Get your morning (or anytime) coffee at B-Side, which also has tea and sandwiches. Lost + Found serves cocktails and shareable bites with a Hawai'ian flair. The hotel also hosts local events like live music and wellness sessions.
Fora Perks include a $25 hotel credit, a welcome amenity, an upgrade and extended check-out whenever possible.
Halepuna Waikiki by Halekulani
Image courtesy of Halepuna Waikiki by Halekulani
Halepuna—“house of welcoming waters” in Hawai'ian—is Halekulani’s sister hotel. Expect a similar caliber of service and amenities, including access to the latter’s oceanfront spa.
“Halepuna Waikiki by Halekulani delivers a serene, boutique feel right in the middle of the action,” Seasen said.
Halepuna is directly behind Halekulani, and about a block away from Waikiki Beach. Halepuna’s on-site amenities include a rooftop garden space with lounge chairs, a separate rooftop infinity pool, and Umi by Vikram Garg, an umami-focused restaurant with an international menu.
“This small hotel is often overlooked, but it’s a hidden gem that offers the style of its sister property, the five-star Halekulani, without the five-star price tag,” Fora Advisor Sarah Keim said.
Halepuna’s rooms and suites are chic and bright, with lots of natural lighting. Though the hotel is technically off the beach, you’ll still get ocean views on higher floors.
Fora’s Preferred Platinum partner perks include a $100 hotel credit, a welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
The Royal Hawaiian, A Luxury Collection Resort, Waikiki
Image courtesy of The Royal Hawaiian, A Luxury Collection Resort, Waikiki
The Royal Hawaiian is Marriott’s premier addition to the best hotels in Waikiki. Its coral-pink Spanish-Moorish façade has been a fixture on the Waikiki shoreline since 1927, earning it the “The Pink Palace of the Pacific” moniker.
“This property is one of Hawai'i’s most legendary resorts and still exudes timeless glamour,” Taryn said.
The hotel is split into two sections. The Historic Wing features updated interiors that pay homage to the hotel’s original design, while the Mailani Tower is more recent.
“Its Historic Wing has a boutique feel, while the newer Mailani Tower offers oceanview rooms with modern luxury touches,” she added.
The hotel shares resort grounds with Sheraton Waikiki (see below) and neighbors Duke’s Waikiki, a famous surf-and-turf restaurant named after legendary surfer Duke Kahanamoku, on the north end of the neighborhood. The beach ends before reaching the Sheraton, so The Royal Hawaiian benefits from being on the northernmost stretch of beach, away from its busier center.
“The Royal Hawaiian is right in the middle of everything but still feels special and full of history,” Jennifer said. “It’s great for first-timers, honeymooners, or anyone who wants that ‘I’m really in Hawaii’ feeling.”
Azure headlines The Royal Hawaiian’s dining scene. Enjoy an oceanfront five-course dinner inspired by Hawai'ian cuisine. Surf Lanai is a casual, al fresco option. The Mai Tai Bar is renowned for its eponymous cocktail.
“Don't miss the iconic Mai Tai Bar at The Royal Hawaiian,” Fora Advisor Summer Orlow said. “It's pink, iconic, and gives that old-school glam straight off a 1950's postcard!”
Also enjoy Ayurvedic-inspired treatments at The Royal Hawaiian’s Abhasa spa, morning yoga on the hotel grounds, and a ticketed family-friendly luau experience that includes a three-course Hawai'ian meal.
Fora’s Marriott STARS partner perks include a $100 hotel credit, a welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Sheraton Waikiki Beach Resort
Image courtesy of Sheraton Waikiki Beach Resort
Sheraton Waikiki is on the northern stretch of Waikiki Beach. It’s the (unofficial) sister hotel to The Royal Hawaiian. The two hotels are neighbors, and share some amenities, including the Sheraton’s famous and family-friendly Helomoa Playground pool, which has waterslides, whirlpools, splash pads, and cabanas. Alternatively, the Edge Infinity pool is adults only and the longest beachfront infinity pool in North America.
“The Sheraton Waikiki Beach resort has the best pools in Waikiki and some amazing views,” Fora X Advisor Alicia Anderson said. “It's a bit quieter than some of the huge resorts in Waikiki, which makes it a great option for couples.”
Other family-friendly amenities and experiences include paddleboard lessons, koi fish feedings, games (pool, foosball), and canoe excursions. Fora Advisor Leslie Henger highlighted the Sheraton’s beach-side bar, Rumfire, and Mai Tai catamaran, which offers sunset sailing right off the beach. Also, don’t skip breakfast.
“The Sheraton has an amazing breakfast buffet with jaw-dropping French toast,” Alicia added.
Fora’s Marriott LUMINOUS partner perks include a $100 hotel credit, a welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach
Image courtesy of Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach
Alohilani is another excellent luxury hotel in Waikiki. Boutique shops and high-end eateries like Morimoto line the bottom level of the high-rise, while its lobby lounge features a two-story fish tank, (a.k.a. the Oceanarium). Alohilani’s design-forward and spacious rooms come with complimentary beach rental credits, redeemable just across Kalākaua Avenue in central Waikiki.
The best rooms have ocean or Diamond Head views. If you don’t feel like making the short walk to the beach, the hotel’s infinity pool has overwater bungalow-like lounges with day beds and lounge chairs. At night, the pool deck becomes a nightlife hub with live music, cocktails, and appetizers—all lit up by a five-story wall projection that showcases Oahu’s native landscapes.
Fora’s Preferred Platinum partner perks include a $100 resort credit, a welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Bonus: The Kahala Hotel & Resort, where to stay in Honolulu outside Waikiki
Image courtesy of The Kahala Hotel & Resort
The one thing that Waikiki lacks is seclusion; it’s arguably the busiest place in Hawai'i. If that’s not your vibe, consider The Kahala. It’s still within the greater Honolulu area, making it more accessible than Oahu’s ultra-luxe North Shore resorts (check out the best hotels in Oahu). However, you’ll find this similarly luxurious retreat on Kāhala Beach, on the opposite side of the Diamond Head area, only about 15 minutes from Waikiki.
Since the 1960s, The Kahala has been where to stay in Honolulu for celebrities and VIPs like Adam Sandler, Martin Sheen, Queen Elizabeth II, and the Dalai Lama. The atmosphere is refined but laid-back. Five stout buildings surround manicured lawns and courtyard pools. The greenspace leads to an exclusive beach that’s separated from the main Kāhala Beach area by rocky outcroppings. It feels private, but you’re just a short drive away from Honolulu. Rooms and suites are elegant with a beachy twist; many have private balconies or patios that lead to the main courtyard. Dining consists of a mix of formal Hawai'ian and contemporary international cuisine.
Fora Perks include a $100 resort credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Fora Advisors’ tips for staying in Honolulu
Fora Advisors shared a few tips alongside their Honolulu and Waikiki hotel recommendations. For tailored hotel suggestions and insights, connect with a Hawai'i travel planner (a.k.a. Fora Advisor).
Staying at the best hotels in Waikiki vs. other parts of Honolulu
Image courtesy of ESPACIO The Jewel of Waikiki
Waikiki is arguably the best area to stay in Oahu, and certainly where to stay in Honolulu—the only major city in Hawai'i—for leisure. It’s home to the islands’ best designer shopping and most diverse dining. It’s close to major sites like the Pearl Harbor Memorial and Iolani Palace— and, of course, it’s home to the world-famous Waikiki Beach, where postcard-worthy waves wash ashore golden sands.
“Waikiki is Hawai'i’s most iconic beachfront neighborhood,” Taryn said. “It is perfect for travelers who love having everything at their fingertips.”
Honolulu’s best hotels and resorts are almost exclusively found along Waikiki Beach. Hotel options exist for every type of traveler: honeymooners, families, luxury seekers… (In fact, Waikiki’s diverse options make a strong case for Oahu being the best island to visit in Hawai'i for first-timers.)
“Waikiki is classic Hawai'i with a fun, lively vibe,” Jennifer.
The neighborhood bustles during the day, and Waikiki Beach is almost always busy—especially in winter when mainlanders visit to escape the cold. There are options beyond Waikiki if you prefer to stay outside the busiest parts of Honolulu. The aforementioned Kahala Hotel & Resort is a bright exception found on the outskirts of the city, along Kahala Beach.
There are also a few hotels next to Honolulu’s Ala Moana Center—one of the largest malls in the world — in downtown. These mostly cater to business or budget travelers. While they may appear close to the city’s nearby beaches, including Waikiki Beach, on a map, the city’s ever-present traffic often turns short distances into marathons—what you might save in lower hotel rates, you’re losing to hefty transport fare (not to mention the time lost). If you’re planning on spending most of your time at the beach or checking out the luxury shops and eateries along Kalākaua Avenue, the best hotels in Waikiki make more sense.
2-3 days is enough to see Honolulu, but you may want to stay longer to see more of Oahu
Image courtesy of The Kahala Hotel & Resort
You can see Honolulu’s highlights in two to three days. Hawai'i’s only major city is relatively small compared to major US cities like New York or Los Angeles. However, this doesn’t leave much time to enjoy everything the best hotels in Waikiki offer—the beach, world-class spas, stellar dining—or the North Shore (another great area to stay in Oahu).
Honolulu has great weather year round, but is busiest from December to March
Honolulu—and Hawai'i, in general—is a year-round destination. It does rain often, but most showers are brief. Otherwise, expect picturesque weather, especially along the coastline.
Winter—late December through March—brings flocks of travelers. If you’re planning to visit during this time, book your trip at least three to six months in advance, as most Honolulu hotels reach capacity. Late July and August tend to be busy as well, particularly for families looking for a grand finale to their summer plans.
Waikiki Beach is swimmable all year
Oahu’s South Shore, including Waikiki, is protected from the harsher ocean conditions that have made the island’s North Shore a legendary spot for surfing. Barring rare occurrences when Waikiki Beach experiences rougher currents below the waterline—almost always between November and March, and usually limited to a few times per year—you’ll enjoy comfortable ocean temperatures and family-friendly waves any time of year. Waikiki Beach is also protected by lifeguards from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day.
There’s more to Waikiki and Honolulu than the beach
Waikiki Beach is one of the most famous beaches in the world. It’s buzzing with locals and travelers from all over the world. The contrast between the cityscape, green mountains, and ocean is striking.
“Waikiki is one of the best places in the world to learn to surf,” Jennifer said. “The waves are friendly, the water’s warm, and there are tons of great instructors available right on the beach.”
This glamorous neighborhood also has luxe shopping, fine restaurants, and trendy casual eateries. Summer recommended walking down palm tree-lined Kalākaua Avenue, Waikiki’s famous downtown area with shops, restaurants, and street performers. But there are also a lot of things to do in Oahu that have nothing to do with the beach and retailers.
“Seeing Pearl Harbor and the U.S.S. Arizona Memorial gives you a first-hand impression of what it was really like to have war arrive on your doorstep and the sacrifices so many people made during WWII and how it affected the county,” Fora Advisor Mary Beth Hiett said.
She also highlighted Iolani Palace, the last royal palace of the Hawai'ian Monarchy. You can hike through jungle trails, enjoy Hawai'ian cultural fests (luaus and performances can be found all over), and visit family-friendly spots like the Waikiki Zoo and aquarium.
Honolulu has a very high cost of living, but it’s worth it for a vacation
Image courtesy of The Royal Hawaiian, A Luxury Collection Resort, Waikiki
Groceries, fuel, and other ordinary items are more expensive in Hawai'i than the mainland (since virtually everything needs to be shipped in). Mary Beth noted that food and resort fees are especially high, but “definitely worth it.” That said, resort areas in Hawai'i are comparable in cost to similar areas around the world.
Waikiki and Honolulu are walkable, but you’ll need transport to visit other parts of Oahu
Honolulu, and especially Waikiki, is walkable and generally ideal, but traffic is often congested. If you want to visit other parts of Oahu, like the North Shore, you will either need to rent a car or take the bus. The latter option is limited outside Honolulu, however. If you need to know how to travel between Hawai'ian islands, check out our article.
More Hawai'i travel inspiration
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