Best Places to Stay in Honolulu

Many dream of a sunny Hawaiian getaway complete with beautiful beaches, cultural experiences and island cuisine. Honolulu offers all that and more, not to mention, some of Hawaii's most impressive accommodations. The city's top resorts and hotels promise stunning views and plenty of pampering.

If there's a challenge to planning your Honolulu adventure, it involves narrowing down the long list of hotels in Honolulu. This decision will likely come down to preferences regarding location and amenities: do you prefer a waterfront location or downtown excitement? Perhaps you want something a bit more peaceful — situated further from the city center so you can easily escape to the island's best beaches or hiking trails.

There is something for everyone — but you will quickly realize that when planning a trip to Honolulu, deciding where to stay can be a top concern. If in doubt, look for a location that will let you relax while also exposing you to the highlights of island culture. As you prepare for the ultimate Hawaiian expedition, check out the best places to stay in Honolulu:

The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach

• Address: 383 Kalaimoku St, Waikiki
• AAA Diamond Designation: Four Diamonds
• Pricing for standard rooms: $534

Discover a spectacular view of the Pacific from the best possible vantage point: the tall towers of Waikiki Beach's Ritz-Carlton Residences. Home to some of the island's most luxurious suites, these towers exemplify Ritz-Carlton's trademark sophistication but add residential amenities to provide unmatched comfort and convenience.

As you emerge from your upscale digs for a day of Hawaiian delights, you can explore gorgeous infinity pools and relax within private cabanas. Further relaxation can be found at the spa, where you can unwind with an amazing massage. Dining is an important part of the Ritz-Carlton experience, so be sure to check out the French cuisine at La Vie or the curated sake selection at Sushi Sho.

Hyatt Centric Waikiki Beach

• Address: 349 Seaside Ave, Honolulu
• AAA Diamond Designation: Four Diamonds
• Pricing for standard rooms: $222

Blending contemporary sophistication with laid-back island vibes, Hyatt Centric Waikiki Beach offers a boutique hotel experience complete with chic, yet comfy rooms and suites. Oversized windows provide awe-inspiring views of the mountains or the ocean while upscale bath amenities deliver a spa-like experience.

This boutique hotel is designed to deliver a walkable island getaway. Its convenient location makes it easy to plan the perfect day in and around Honolulu. Dining is also a perk: comfort food and signature cocktails form the basis of an amazing dining experience at the onsite restaurant Basalt. Grab gelato or mochi malasadas at the charming Dukes Lanes.

Ilikai Hotel & Luxury Suites

• Address: 1777 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu
• AAA Diamond Designation: Three Diamonds
• Pricing for standard rooms: $237

If you crave a cosmopolitan experience but also want to enjoy the best of island life, you're in for a treat: Ilikai Hotel & Luxury Suites blends these elements to great effect. Perhaps you need spacious digs so you can stretch out and relax. If so, you will be drawn to the Ilikai's sizable suites, the smallest of which span a generous 500 square feet (while some exceed 1,240 square feet).

On-site activities provide easy access to adventure. An absolute must for your itinerary? Heading to the courtyard in the evening for a torch-lighting ceremony. On select evenings, talented local musicians serenade guests. If you crave daytime excitement, Duke's Lagoon (based on the Ilikai's ground floor) makes it easy to sign up for surf lessons or stand-up paddle tours. Head to the top two floors for Mediterranean meals at Pesca.

'Alohilani Resort

• Address: 2490 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu
• AAA Diamond Designation: Three Diamonds
• Pricing for standard rooms: $320

An idyllic beachfront location makes the 'Alohilani Resort an easy choice for guests who want it all: island vibes and easy access to Honolulu's best attractions. There is also plenty on site to keep discerning visitors happy.

Gaze in awe at the vast aquarium — which spans two floors — or head to La Bettola for rustic Italian cuisine. The privately accessible Longboard Club provides hearty breakfasts and a wonderful wine selection. Video art is sometimes projected vertically on the exterior of the hotel, while hula classes and cleansing ceremonies provide cultural enrichment.

Serene rooms blend island aesthetics with contemporary styling and also include plenty of amenities: plush bathrobes, multifunctional bidets and even private lanais. The presidential suites add wet bars and Jacuzzi tubs.

The Kahala Hotel & Resort

• Address: 5000 Kahala Ave, Honolulu
• AAA Diamond Designation: Four Diamonds
• Pricing for standard rooms: $695

A secluded beach setting will make any visit to The Kahala Hotel & Resort feel like a trip to paradise. This elegant resort offers the best in Hawaiian hospitality, along with the chance to relax in lavish rooms boasting panoramic views of the dolphin lagoon or the ocean.

All guests enjoy access to the CHI Health & Fitness center, where working out is a delight. Self-care is a priority at the onsite spa, where serenity is guaranteed when lounging in the relaxation area. Enjoy deep soak tubs, welcome rituals and a diverse spa service menu that includes massages and other treatments. An elevated dining experience awaits at Hoku's, which serves beautifully plated French-influenced dishes.

OUTRIGGER Reef Waikiki Beach Resort

• Address: 2169 Kālia Rd, Honolulu
• AAA Diamond Designation: Three Diamonds
• Pricing for standard rooms: $368

Discover an elevated Honolulu experience at OUTRIGGER Reef Waikiki Beach Resort. There's a lot to love about this oceanfront oasis, which exposes vacationers to the best of Hawaiian culture. Hanging out in the resort's peaceful rooms and suites can also be a joy, as these are designed to deliver maximum tranquility.

While relaxation opportunities abound, OUTRIGGER is especially appealing to active vacationers. There's always something to do or see. A jam-packed activity calendar provides plenty of memorable experiences: lei-making, hula dancing, bamboo printing and so much more. Dining is also a joy: discover farm-fresh cuisine at Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman or refreshments with a view at Voyager 47.

Aulani - A Disney Resort & Spa

• Address: 92-1185 Aliinui Dr, Kapolei,
• AAA Diamond Designation: Four Diamonds
• Pricing for standard rooms:

Although technically located in the lovely community of Kapolei, Aulani provides easy access to the best of Honolulu. Of course, this dynamic Disney experience may make you reluctant to leave the resort in the first place. The Disney magic is alive and well at this resort and, while it lacks the rides that set other Disney destinations apart, there are plenty of other unique opportunities that promise to delight both kids and kids at heart.

Little vacationers will adore the vast community hall, where games and crafts await. Music classes, painting parties and even adventure trails will keep young guests entertained. The sprawling pool area has a lazy river and interactive elements, while the beach provides equipment rentals and the chance to meander along a scenic trail. Add character experiences and you have the makings of the perfect Disney getaway.

Plan Your Trip to Honolulu With AAA.

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