15 Stylish Boutique Hotels in Hawaii, USA in 2024

best boutique hotels in Hawaii overlooking the bay with lush greenery and hammock
Holualoa Inn on Big Island Hawaii | Photo Credit: Booking.com

Looking for the best boutique hotels in Hawaii, USA? This guide has you covered.

Some of the most beautiful sites on this planet can be encountered in Hawaii, from epic rainbows, playful waves, and swaying palm trees to the most luxurious boutique hotels. So given the opportunity, staying in Hawaii boutique hotels will offer you the best in comfort and style on your next visit to paradise.

When it comes to the best boutique hotels in Hawaii, I have found 15 hotels that truly stand out among the rest, whether you plan to stay in Maui, Kauai, Oahu or the Big Island. And what’s not to love about staying in stylish, utterly cool, boutique Hawaii hotels? Besides the opportunity to up your accommodation game, of course.

What’s great about staying in a designer hotel versus large chains is the attention to detail, personalized service, thoughtful high-end rooms, and unique amenities. I always try to stay in a boutique hotel in Hawaii for an extra special experience.

views of the hawaiian coastline with rugged rock and blue ocean from the top boutique hotel in Hawaii
Coastline of Maui, Hawaii

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Tucked into a remote bay in Kauai, or smack dab in the middle of the vibrant downtown Waikiki nightlife scene, unique hotels in Hawaii are harder to find. That’s why I’ve narrowed it down to some of the best boutique hotels Hawaii has to offer, making your travel planning that much easier.

At the end of the day, Hawaii is a very memorable destination, so why not treat yourself to a week at one of the Hawaiian luxury hotels on this list? Specially curated by me, for you.

Let’s dive in.


KAUAI TOP PICK
Photo Credit: Booking.com

Koa Kea Resort, Kauai

Koa Kea Resort on Poipu Beach is the best boutique hotel in Kauai, Hawaii because of its beachfront location, delicious dining and range of amenities.

MAUI TOP PICK
Best boutique hotels in Maui Hawaii
Photo Credit: Booking.com

Hotel Wailea, Adults Only

Hotel Wailea, Adults Only is the best boutique hotel in Maui, Hawaii because of its romantic atmosphere, large pool and cozy suites with ocean views

BIG ISLAND
TOP PICK
Best Boutique Hotels in Hawaii USA
Photo Credit: Booking.com

Holualoa Inn

Holualoa Inn is the best boutique hotel in Hawaii Big Island because of its laidback local island life vibe, incredible breakfast and spectacular views

OAHU TOP PICK
best boutique hotels in oahu hawaii
Photo Credit: Booking.com

The Laylow

The Laylow is the best boutique hotel in Oahu, Hawaii because of its proximity to Waikiki Beach, vibrant nightlife scene and shopping.

Where to Stay in Hawaii, USA
(What Hawaiian Island is Best?)

I have taken the liberty of narrowing this list down to the four main Hawaiian islands. They are by far the best places to vacation in Hawaii, and you’re most likely to pick one of these lovely tropical getaways over another depending on personal preference. 

Kauai

Wild Nature & Beauty

Often called the “Garden Isle,” Kauai is known for being more untamed than other places in Hawaii, with much of the true Hawaiian nature and lifestyle left intact

It is one of the best places to go in Hawaii for hiking, and though not as famous, Kauai also offers some of the best surfing spots, too. If you are willing to get off the beaten trail, that is.

See all Kauai boutique hotels

Also travelling to Kauai? Here are my recommended top boutique hotels in Kauai

Maui

Scenic Road to Hana & Surfing

Beautiful and diverse, this island is located in the central part of the Hawaiian archipelago. Maui is known as “The Valley Isle,” and is my go-to place for a scenic road trip (hello road to Hana!)

If you have a big family or group of friends who loves to cruise around and take it slow, then this is the best island to stay in Hawaii. But don’t let that be the only reason you consider Maui. The island also offers up classy city life and unique red-sand beaches.

These are my top boutique hotels in Maui for your consideration.

See all Maui boutique hotels

the rugged green and orange coastline of Kauai is available to see from some of the boutique Hawaii hotels
Jurassic Coastline of Kauai, Hawaii

Hawaii Big Island

Volcanoes National Park & Black Sand Beaches

This island needs no introduction, with its world-famous volcanoes, black-sand beaches, and gorgeous waterfalls. If you want to see the lava flows, they say the best way to view them is via helicopter, though I haven’t tried it myself yet. 

The Big Island is also home to Kona coffee and many homegrown chocolate brands that you can only find in Hawaii  (yum!) — perfect for those hoping to get a taste of real Hawaiian cuisine.

See all Big Island boutique hotels

Boutique Hotels on Hawaii Big Island near Volcanoes National Park are my top pick!

O’ahu

Famous Waikiki Beach, Nightlife & Shopping

Home to the state capital of Honolulu and the world-famous Waikiki Beach, I have always thought of this island as one of the best places to stay in Hawaii for couples or fun girls’ trips

Be it your BFF or your life partner, it is just more fun to experience the extensive nightlife and shopping scene with someone you love. The urban excitement makes it a popular destination for travelers of all types. So if you thrive in a crowd, then this is the island for you.

See all Oahu boutique hotels

Book a beachfront hotel in Waikiki to be near the action!

15 Best Boutique Hotels in Hawaii, USA

Now that you know what the best island to visit in Hawaii is for you, we can start looking at the luxury hotels in Hawaii that I recommend on each of these beautiful islands. 

Best Boutique Hotels in Oahu, Hawaii

1. Kaimana Beach Hotel 

Hawaiian Island | Waikiki, Oahu

colourful art on white walls with comfortable seating at Hawaii boutique hotels
Best Boutique Hotels in Hawaii | Kaimana Beach Hotel via Booking.com

Rating: 8.4 / 10 | View on Booking.com

Best For | Those who want to be tucked away from the city noise, Couples, and Families 

Location |  Just off the side of Kapiʻolani Regional Park and removed from the bustling of Waikiki Bay. It is about a 25-minute drive from the Honolulu Airport.

Features & Facilities | When considering the best boutique hotels in Honolulu, there is no compromise, Kaimana Beach Hotel is top of the list!

It is a certified slice of paradise hidden from the noise of the city and yet it never feels small. Here, you can easily enjoy everything from yoga and lei-making classes to stand-up paddle-board lessons

Guests can enjoy the hotel’s private beach and easy access to the famous Diamond Head hiking trail. Or dine at Hau Tree, the in-hotel restaurant offering Honolulu’s best beachside brunch and casual beach-themed dinners.

Rooms | If you are looking for five star hotels in Hawaii with a modern yet comfortable vibe and a relaxed atmosphere, then book yourself an ocean-side penthouse. With a private wraparound lanai that gives you spanning views of the Pacific Ocean, you simply can’t go wrong. 

Enjoy your favorite Hawaiian tunes with the complimentary Apple iHome speaker, sip on refreshing Hawaiian volcanic water, and then grab some rentals from Kai Sallas’ Pro Surf School. 

This Waikiki boutique hotel has pretty much everything you need for a perfect beach day ready and waiting for you.


2. Hotel Renew 

Hawaiian Island | Waikiki, Oahu

art deco decor and plush bedroom at some unique hotels in Hawaii
Best Boutique Hotels in Hawaii | Hotel Renew via Booking.com

Rating: 8.4 / 10 | View on Booking.com

Best For | Those with Pets, Solo Travelers, Couples, and Small Friend Groups 

Location | Less than a city block away from Waikiki Beach and within walking distance to the heart of downtown Honolulu, it is only a 20-minute drive from the Honolulu Airport. 

This well-balanced resort is one of the best boutique hotels in Hawaii that boasts city life on one side and local life on the other.

Features & Facilities | Recess Café & Bar is a newer addition to the hotel that adds a jazzy vibe to your mornings and evenings. 

And during the day, you can feel free to make the most of the sun by grabbing some beach chairs, towels, and snorkeling gear offered free of charge during your stay at Hotel Renew, so you can make the most of the world-famous beach at your doorstep. 

Rooms | The rooms here feature a modern geometric art flair that gives this unique Hawaii hotel quite the reputation. Most of these avant-garde rooms are even dog friendly, which is another way this boutique hotel stands out among the rest. 

Offering guests premium Korres brand bath amenities and yoga in the park on Saturdays you can find your relaxation sanctuary here.


3. The Laylow 

Hawaiian Island | Waikiki, Oahu

trendy decor at one of the best boutique hotels Hawaii has to offer
Best Boutique Hotels in Hawaii | The Laylow via Booking.com

Rating: 8.4 / 10 | View on Booking.com

Best For |  Families, Friend Groups, Solo Travelers

Location | Found on the northern edge of downtown Waikiki, The Laylow is about a 10 min walk to Waikiki Beach. 

TIP | Right across the street from this luxury accommodation sitting on Hawaii’s skyline is Marugame Udon. This authentic Japanese udon noodle restaurant serves huge portions of these thick noodles every day, and I can’t recommend it enough! 

Features & Facilities | The Laylow is probably one the coolest 5 star hotels in Hawaii, offering a lanai with a rooftop pool where you can enjoy nightly live entertainment and an award-winning happy hour. World-class DJ performances happen every Friday and Saturday night near the fire pits. 

During the day you can choose to head out on a free cruiser bicycle to explore the city. Nearby, going down towards the beach, you will find Duke’s Marketplace — an eclectic shopping mall with many local vendors selling their goods out of handcrafted stalls.

Rooms | When you walk into your bright, modern room you will find an E Komo Mai Basket waiting for you. And if you opt for a suite (which I recommend!), you will also find a cute little Ukulele as well! 

Each room’s design offers a calming atmosphere that will bring you peace of mind and island vibes.  As Waikiki’s newest urban oasis, The Laylow delivers everything you want from Waikiki Hawaii luxury hotels.


4. Turtle Bay Resort

Hawaiian Island | Kahuku, Oahu

living room with walk out patio and ocean view from luxury hotels in Hawaii
Best Boutique Hotels in Hawaii | Turtle Bay Resort via Booking.com

Rating: 9.1 / 10 | View on Booking.com

Best For | Wedding Parties, Couples, Families, Surfers

Location | The best hotel in Hawaii for couples, it’s located on the north end of Oahu. It’s roughly a one-hour drive from Honolulu and Waikiki on the beautiful Kawela Bay. 

This luxurious resort is a true escape from the rest of the world. The iconic North Shore of Oahu is among the most popular surf destinations in the world, known for its picturesque waves.

And getting away from the city can show you the true heart of Hawaii in the locals who call the nearby historic Haleiwa town their home.

Features & Facilities | If you are looking for a luxury boutique hotel in Hawaii that truly has it all, then look no further than Turtle Bay Resort!

Sign out a Beats Pill Speaker and enjoy your favorite “mele songs” on the go. Head down to the beach nightly to find live entertainment at not just one, but two locations — Sunset Pool Bar and Off The Lip Lobby Bar. 

Take the little ones to a pony meet-and-greet at the stables, or reserve the resident professional family photographer for a session, both of which are complimentary for registered guests. 

And for a fee, you can rent almost anything under the sun! They have so much on offer, it’s no wonder Turtle Bay Resort is considered one of the best hotels in Hawaii on the beach side.

Rooms | If I haven’t convinced you already, just wait until you see the rooms. They really have a “high-class beach vibe,” with relaxed furnishings, organic textiles, and soft down-to-earth color tones. 

You’ll find instant ease and peace of mind in these expansive suites that offer sweeping ocean views. Or if you are looking for something a little more intimate, a private ocean bungalow here could become your new home away from home.


Best Boutique Hotels in Kauai, Hawaii

5. 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay

Hawaiian Island | Hanalei Bay, Kauai

low seating and boho design with wood accents at best boutique hotels Hawaii
Best Boutique Hotels in Hawaii | 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay via Booking.com

Rating: 9.2 / 10 | View on Booking.com

Best For | Couples, Families, Those with Pets, Solo Travelers, Wedding Parties

Location | On the north of Hanalei Bay, this oceanfront sanctuary is surrounded by Kauai’s most breathtaking hiking trails and truly embraces the wild nature of the Garden Isle. 

Yet just due east is the resort town Princeville, where you can find a modern take on the traditional white-wall Hawaiian home. 

Features & Facilities | This sustainability icon is possibly one of the freshest boutique hotels in Kauai, Hawaii. Brand new and ready to roll in the 22nd century — though not in the ultra-techy way most movies show. 

Instead, 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay heads to the future with a sustainability-forward mindset that we should all be adopting for the longevity of our planet.

Nourish your mind and body with fresh, local, and sustainable farm-to-table cuisine. Or, enhance your body with stress reduction exercises and outdoor immersive fitness excursions

Be sure to bring your furry family members along and make the most of Hanalei Bay’s best dog parks, pet shops, and grooming salons. 

And if you love animals but don’t have a pet of your own, no need to worry, 1 Hotel offers daily horseback trail riding lessons. This way you can see the island and make a new animal pal along the way.

Rooms | I don’t know what it is about the decor at this boutique resort that just says “This is Hawaii” to me, but it truly speaks to my soul. The thoughtful touches that bring nature into each and every room they offer make for an unmatched five-star experience of the Hawaiian islands. 

With volcano grey rock and real wood accents, you can imagine being out under the stars, bathing in a waterfall. 


6. Hanalei Bay Resort

Hawaiian Island | Princeville, Kauai

light and bright living room and dining room combined in this best Hawaii boutique hotels
Best Boutique Hotels in Hawaii | Hanalei Bay Resort via Booking.com

View on Booking.com

Best For | Large Families, Friend Groups, Wedding Parties, Golfers

Location | Inside the Makai Golf Course area of the resort town of Princeville on Kauai’s North Shore, this classic club-vibe Kauai boutique resort offers Hawaiian suites that are only a tenth of a mile away from Puu Poa Beach. 

Features & Facilities | The close proximity to the Princeville Makai Golf Club makes this a perfect stop on the golf lover’s bucket list.

The total grounds of Hanalei Bay Resort are expansive! But fear not, they offer free golf cart rides to those staying with them to anywhere on the grounds, upon request. 

Take a dip in the free-form lagoon pool that overlooks Hanalei Bay or work up a sweat at the Peter Burwash Tennis Facility. Then when you are ready to relax, head over to the fire pit, hit up the spa and wellness center, or chill in the hot tub.

Rooms | When it comes to rooms, I recommend “Suite 9304, 5, 6 as the earthy tones and space to stretch out really sets the standard for one of the best places to stay in Hawaii. 

Guests to this suite can expect a large balcony with sea views, and a fully equipped kitchen. 


Best Boutique Hotels in Maui, Hawaii

7. Paia Inn

Hawaiian Island |  Paia, Maui

cozy Hawaii hotel bedroom with green door
Best Boutique Hotels in Hawaii | Paia Inn via Booking.com

Rating: 8 / 10 | View on Booking.com

Best For | Couples, Solo Travelers, Families

Location | Near the Kahului Airport, right in downtown Paia surrounded by good food, shopping, and sitting at the start of the road to Hana, this swanky yet lively inn was voted one of the top romantic boutique hotels in Maui Hawaii

It is centrally located, yet it feels like a secluded little hideaway. 

Features & Facilities | With free parking at Paia Inn, you can drive your rental car stress-free. You can also take advantage of the wonderful snorkeling and whale-watching experiences off a spacious catamaran in Maui’s beautiful, warm ocean. 

Boats not for you? Then book a lesson taught by lifeguard-certified instructors on how to surf, stand-up paddle board, windsurf, or kitesurf. The equipment you need is all included in the lesson.

Looking for something on land to enjoy? Then dive into my favorite Hawaiian activity and experience Maui luaus! Luaus are by far the most popular activity on the island, and with the help of the staff at Paia Inn, you can be sure to be in the right place at the right time.

Rooms | I say “rooms,” but honestly the suites at Paia Inn are more like miniature homes. If you are in the mood for something quieter, after booking your stay, ask for The Romance Package. Expect a lovely bouquet of tropical flowers and decadent gourmet chocolate truffles awaiting your arrival. 

Each room is unique and some have a screened-in lanai with access to a small beach right on your doorstep. 


8. Hotel Wailea, Adults Only

Hawaiian Island | Wailea, Maui

Adults Only Hawaii Resort with open living room and balcony with ocean views
Best Boutique Hotels in Hawaii | Hotel Wailea via Booking.com

Rating: 9.4 / 10 | View on Booking.com

Best For | Adults Only, Couples, Solo Travelers, Friend Groups

Location | On the south side of Maui in the beautiful town of Wailea-Makena, your Maui boutique hotel is about 27 minutes by car from Kahului Airport. Drive up to the valet parking and get your very own Lei greeting with a champagne toast on arrival!

Features & Facilities | The daily resort fee at Hotel Wailea will get you access to all kinds of unique luxuries. This includes personal valets equipped with luxury vehicles to drive you wherever you wish in the city of Wailea. 

Complimentary tropical mixology classes are offered on Saturdays for those hoping to upgrade their drink-crafting skills. 

You can also just chill in the open-air cocktail lounge with panoramic ocean views or take a dip in the pool and then rest in the nearby living room-style cabanas or firepit. You will be feeling like a million dollars in no time.

If you are looking for romance, head over to the Treehouse and dine within a luscious canopy of mango and avocado trees. This dramatic setting is complete with stunning ocean views, and a seven-course private chef dinner hosted by Hotel Wailea award-winning restaurant which showcases fresh, seasonal ingredients that are sourced locally. 

Rooms | Nestled within a lush tropical hillside perched 300 feet above the sea, these pleasant rooms feature understated elegance and the simple things in life. 

There are only 72 rooms available at the property, so be sure to book far in advance. With daily breakfast credit and a deep soaking tub and shower in every room, you can enjoy the best Maui boutique hotel as if it were your own home.


9. Lumeria Maui, Educational Retreat Center

Hawaiian Island | Makawao, Maui

Hawaii retreat at dusk with lounge chairs and large tree
Best Boutique Hotels in Hawaii | Lumeria Maui via Booking.com

Rating: 8.6 / 10 | View on Booking.com

Best For | Couples, Friends Groups, Solo Nature Lovers

Location | It’s a 20-minute drive from the Kahului Airport to this secluded Maui boutique hotel in the hills. Halfway between Paia and Makawao, hidden up a gravel road, this is a zen escape from the rest of the world. 

Features & Facilities | The wellness spa at Lumeria Maui offers a range of treatments for physical and mental healing, with zen exploration and rejuvenation being key. 

Once rested and ready for a bite, head to The Wooden Crate, a Maui-centered dining experience with an abundance of fresh local produce. The menu offers options ranging from vegan to paleo and everything in between. 

Rooms | With a limited number of rooms available at Lumeria Maui, each feeling just as cozy and unique as the next, you should try to book your retreat in advance

These spa-inspired rooms offer unlimited enrollment in daily classes, events, and activities. Doubling as an educational retreat center, you can find yourself immersed in one-of-a-kind classes and workshops if you pick the right date to book. 


10. Hana-Maui Resort

Hawaiian Island | Hana, Maui

luxury Hawaii hotel nestled into green landscape with ocean in the background
Best Boutique Hotels in Hawaii | Hana-Maui Resort via Booking.com

Rating: 8.6 / 10 | View on Booking.com

Best For | Couples, Large Families, Friend Groups

Location | Hana is a quaint little town — though keep in mind it is about three hours of winding roads to get there from any major city on Maui.

But don’t let that stop you, because the “Road to Hana” is actually quite famous! Known for tropical forests and waterfalls and majestic ocean views.

Features & Facilities | This Hana-Maui Resort is conveniently located right in the middle of town, making walks an easy way to spend the day.

It is only about a 23-minute walk to Kaihalulu Red Sand Beach; be aware though, as about 10 of those minutes are on a trail that is a bit slippery and narrow, so you’ll want to bring the right shoes!

Of all the boutique hotels in Maui Hawaii, one unique thing this resort offers is its Plane to Paradise Package.

A 10-seat Cessna plane that services all the major Hawaii airports for guests with no extra baggage fees. This way you can enjoy the fantastic island sights as you sip champagne in the sky.

Rooms | Choose from 74 total rooms, suites, or oceanfront bungalows spread across 66 acres. Some include residences with kitchens making a perfect home away from home for the whole family. Some rooms even allow small dogs

I recommend the Oceanfront Bungalow with the hot tub to really soak in the local island vibes in the peace and company of your own loved ones.


11. Four Seasons Resort Lana’i

Hawaiian Island |  Lana’i, Lana’i (Maui County)

dining at a cool hotel overlooking a bay
Best Boutique Hotels in Hawaii | Four Seasons Resort Lanai via Booking.com

Rating: 9 / 10 | View on Booking.com

Best For | Couples, Small Groups, Solo Travelers

Location | A 25-minute drive from Lanai island airport, south of Lanai city tucked into Manele Bay. Sweetheart Rock, locked in Pu-u Pehe, is only a 10-minute walk away from this Hawaii hotel.

Features & Facilities | Round trip flights from Honolulu on Lanai Air are included in your stay. The Four Seasons Resort Lanai makes it a point to always welcome new guests with a drink upon arrival.

Two expansive lagoon-style pools and botanical gardens to reset your mind and body, make this one of the top hotels in Hawaii.

Find on-site dining at Nobu Lanai, a restaurant with Japanese-inspired cuisine that is perfect for a romantic dinner. Or, have brunch with local ingredients at One Forty and enjoy afternoon tea and, of course, a full bar. Then relax at the spa — they offer massages, a hammam spa, a sauna, and a Jacuzzi.

Rooms | The rooms themselves are the epitome of boutique! Highly curated and elegantly luxurious, the rooms are only matched by the staff’s hospitality. This extraordinary setting comes together to offer a completely customized experience where you can discover your best self. 


Best Boutique Hotels in Big Island, Hawaii

12. Holualoa Inn 

Hawaiian Island |  Kailua-Kona, Big Island

wood two story home with hammock with views of the ocean at golden hour
Best Boutique Hotels in Hawaii | Holualoa Inn via Booking.com

Rating: 10 / 10 | View on Booking.com

Best For | Couples, Wedding Parties

Location | Your Hawaii Big Island hotel is about a 24-minute drive from the Kona International Airport with free parking available. It is a great location to bring a rental car to explore the Big Island. 

Features & Facilities | I would go as far as to say that Holualoa Inn may have the best breakfast on the island! Their gourmet morning meals feature seasonal fresh fruit such as the famous Hawaiian lilikoi (passion fruit), papaya, mango, apple bananas, figs, avocado, star fruit, and much more. 

Never mind their award-winning, 100% estate-grown Kona Coffee to get your morning going — delicious is an understatement.

Of all the Big Island boutique hotels, you can’t beat the location here. You are only a 12-minute drive to Magic Sands Beach Park and a 14-minute drive to Gypsea Gelato, one of my favorite places to stop by. 

Make sure to ask the front desk about their exciting outdoor excursions to get a bit more thrill out of your stay.

Rooms | The Estate at Holualoa Inn is the ideal venue for weddings, tropical engagement parties, or vow renewals. Here you’ll be treated to a chic, country vibe in the total of eight guest rooms the estate offers. 

Six of the rooms are located in the main house and the other two are stand-alone cottages perfect for the happy couple.


13. Mauna Lani

Hawaiian Island |  Waikoloa, Big Island

green and brown fern patterned wall with round seating area
Best Boutique Hotels in Hawaii | Mauna Lani via Booking.com

Rating: 8 / 10 | View on Booking.com

Best For | Couples, Friend Groups, Families of all Sizes

Location | If you rent a car, it is only about 30 minutes away from the Kona International Airport. There is also bus access, but the total travel time will increase to over an hour, so keep that in mind when planning your trip. 

Features & Facilities | Moms, at Mauna Lani you can relax and unwind at the adult-only pool, a quiet sanctuary bordered by plush lounge chairs and swaying palms, while the kids are off having fun at the Holoholo Kids Crew’s ultimate island-style hideaway.

Then take the entire family to the Hālau, a breezy beachside getaway equipped with towels, coolers, Wi-Fi, and more.

My favorite place is the Auberge Spa, where you can find a farm-to-spa experience with treatments that feature Hawaii’s tried and true wellness methods. 

Or, take a stroll on the soft sand and tranquil waters at Mauna Lani’s Resort Beach. If you are lucky, you may even see a turtle or two (or three as I did!).

Rooms | Calming happiness — that is the vibe I get when walking into the rooms at this five-star hotel on Hawaii’s Big Island. They have everything from rooms to residences available. Each offers premium amenities and a selection of complimentary daily activities

Take out a beach cruiser or use the lap pool and other facilities at Mauna Lani’s Wellness Center & Tennis Club to work up a sweat. The rooms even offer a courtesy car for use within the Mauna Lani Resort area.


14. Keola Retreat, Luxury Hawaii Glamping

Hawaiian Island |  Naalehu, Big Island

luxury Hawaii hotel bubble with wood deck and green surroundings
Best Boutique Hotels in Hawaii | Keola Retreat via Booking.com

View on Booking.com

Best For | Couples, Solo Travelers, BFFs

Location | The excursion to this hotel takes about one hour and 20-minutes from the Kona International Airport, so definitely rent a car. It’s right in between Ocean View and Naalehu and is surrounded by wildlife

Features & Facilities | If you are a lover of outdoor activities such as biking, boating, hiking, horseback riding, paddling, or off-roading, then Keola Retreat is the place to find your inner adventurer. And don’t worry, campfires are allowed so you can eat as many s’mores as you like.

You will find free parking, convenient restrooms and showers, and even in-dome games and books for entertainment.

Rooms | Yes, I said dome. This luxury dome with its own outdoor bathtub is the definition of glamping. The room includes a queen-sized bed, a full bathroom with hot water, an outdoor cooking area with a propane burner stove, a mini fridge, and all the essential utensils and cooking equipment you need. 

Lounge in the outdoor hammock at this unique Big Island accommodation under the romantic outdoor string lights all around the tent with your lover and enjoy the lack of Wi-Fi that makes this the perfect place to get off the grid and away from social media for some much-needed R&R.


15. SCP Hilo Hotel

Hawaiian Island |  Hilo, Big Island

three story boutique hotel in Hawaii Big Island with reflection on pond
Best Boutique Hotels in Hawaii | SCP Hilo Hotel via Booking.com

Rating: 8.3 / 10 | View on Booking.com

Best For | Solo Travelers, Families, People on Business 

Location | Hilo is the largest town on the east side of the big island. And honestly, it doesn’t have a ton of luxury — rather, it’s more about the local spots. When you fly into the Hilo Airport, you will only need to drive or taxi for about eight minutes or less to get to this hotel.

Features & Facilities | One of the coolest things about SCP Hilo Hotel is that every time you choose to stay here, your visit donates critical resources to in-need families. They also offer exclusive SCP savings to Mauna Makai, the OK Farm Tours, and Hilo Ocean Adventures. 

If you like, you can also walk across the Japanese garden to Hilo Bay Cafe, the best local place to dine in style.

One of the main reasons to stay in Hilo is the proximity to the lava flows. So, rent an exploration machine and worry not about parking — it’s free.

Rooms | The rooms here are simple and down to earth. If you upgrade to the peaceful guest room you will have an essential oil diffuser and be able to put your mind at ease in the zen calm of your room. 

The Hilo locals are all about health and wellness, so you can find many vegan locally grown food options around town. And I kid-you-not when I say, that just a few blocks away from downtown is my favorite acupuncturist in the whole world at Cherry Healing Center. 


Map of Best Hawaii Boutique Hotels

map of Hawaii's best boutique hotels on the islands of Kauai, Maui, Oahu and Big Island Hawaii
Map of the best boutique hotels in Hawaii USA

Best Boutique Hawaii Hotels: Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the most beautiful place to stay in Hawaii?

Hawaii’s Big Island is the most beautiful place to stay in Hawaii. With a diverse climate, lush rainforest, black sand beaches and the famous Volcanoes National Park, there is so much to see and do. 

Because of its natural beauty, you can also choose to stay and relax in a Big Island hotel with incredible views.

What is the best part of Hawaii to stay at?

Maui is the best part of Hawaii to stay because of its incredible Road to Hana, big wave surfing and mix of city life and high-class dining experiences. Maui is the most well-balanced island in the Hawaiian Archipelago between historic towns, volcanoes, scenic coastlines and plenty of activities. Check out my favorite Maui boutique resorts.

What is the most luxurious part of Hawaii?

Maui, without a doubt, is the most luxurious island in Hawaii. With classy resort life and top-notch restaurants in Wailea, this is the place for a luxury vacation. 

Don’t forget about Lanai, the small island off of Maui, for a high-class 5-star stay.

Where do most people stay when visiting Hawaii?

The island of O’ahu is the most popular island to stay on in Hawaii. With most hotels located on Waikiki Beach in Honolulu (Hawaii’s state capital), you can enjoy nightlife and shopping as well as hike Diamond Beach, tour Pearl Harbour and snorkel in picturesque Hanauma Bay.

You can also find more design-centered boutique hotels in Waikiki, HI.

What are the best boutique hotels in Hawaii for luxury?

Turtle Bay Resort in Maui and 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay in Kauai are my top picks for the most luxurious boutique hotels in Hawaii. 

Pamper yourself in the wellness center and spa, and lounge by the epic swimming pool (with a cocktail in hand, if you want!).

What are the best boutique hotels in Hawaii for families?

Mauna Lani on the Big Island and Hana-Maui Resort on Maui. 

Both Hawaii hotels have plenty of space and excursion opportunities to suit the whole family. These are both great places to hang out for a week or two and have the whole herd entertained.

What are the best boutique hotels in Hawaii for couples?

The best boutique hotels in Hawaii for couples on a romantic getaway are Holualoa Inn on the Big Island and Hotel Wailea, an adults-only resort on Maui. 

With top-end amenities and unique activities like cocktail making, sip at the bar, enjoy a romantic 7-course dinner with stunning views or snuggle by the pool in your own cabana.

What are the best boutique hotels in Hawaii for nightlife?

Hotel Renew and The Laylow are the best Hawaii boutique hotels for travellers looking for nightlife, entertainment, shopping and to be in the ‘thick of it’. Both hotels are located in the vibrant downtown Waikiki Beach area of Oahu.

Best Boutique Hotels in Hawaii Conclusion

As you can see the possibilities here are endless. Although, if I had to pick just a single stay for my next vacation it would have to be Hana-Maui Resort in Maui. It is brand new and almost unknown, so it’s sure to be fresh and fun with smaller crowds, perfect for anyone’s next wellness getaway.

Hawaii Travel Planning Guide


Is it safe to rent a car in Hawaii?

Absolutely, it is safe to rent a car in Hawaii. In fact, renting a car in Hawaii is the best way to see and explore the islands.

What is the best way to book my Hawaii accommodation?

I always use booking.com for all my accommodations worldwide, and Hawaii is no exception. I stayed in some really epic places on my adventure around the islands.

For more cozy apartment-style accommodation try VRBO (better and safer than Airbnb).

What are the best day tours in Hawaii?

Taking a day tour around the islands of Hawaii is a great way to experience the top attractions and learn from a knowledgeable guide.

I highly recommend these Hawaii day tours:

What is the best site to buy flights to Hawaii?

For finding cheap flights to Hawaii, I recommend booking through Skyscanner.

Can you drink tap water in Hawaii?

Yes! You can drink straight from the tap in Hawaii. All water has been strictly tested by the Department of Water and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), so you can feel safe doing so on all islands in the archipelago.

If you plan to do a lot of hiking in Hawaii, I recommend bringing my favourite self-filtering water bottle with you, just in case.


More Hawaii Hotel Guides

Top Boutique Hotels in Hawaii, USA
Best Kauai Boutique Hotels
My favourite Maui Boutique Hotels
Fabulous Waikiki Boutique Hotels
Best Big Island Hawaii Boutique Hotels

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