15 Stylish Boutique Hotels in Waikiki, Honolulu in 2024

Aerial view of Waikiki, Honolulu under the blue sky
Waikiki, Honolulu

Sea, sand, sun – the best boutique hotels in Waikiki feature the holy trinity of beach holidays in abundance. Since the area is actually a fairly concentrated district, it’s hard to find any places that aren’t a short walk to one of the many beaches that are strung out along this incredibly beautiful piece of coastline.

There are loads of boutique hotels in Oahu, scattered across the island, but Waikiki holds a special place in my heart because of its sheer beauty. It’s also incredibly easy to reach: downtown Honolulu and the associated airport are just a short drive away. 

Then there’s the lively nightlife, the fantastic shopping, and the abundance of activities and attractions, from nature hikes to paddle boarding. Perhaps the only downside is that the secret is out about how amazing it is!

View of the Honolulu beach
The beach of Waikiki with Diamond Head in the distance

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Even that comes with a silver lining, however, as it means there are lots of modern hotels in Honolulu to choose from. You could go for a quirky joint with a chilled vibe that attracts the upmarket surfer crowd, an incredibly luxurious resort with all the trimmings, or an intimate hideaway with fewer than 10 rooms. All those are options in Waikiki!

When you’re making your choice, bear in mind that most of the boutique hotels in Honolulu have an obligatory amenity fee, so don’t be shocked if you’re charged an additional 20 to 30 dollars on arrival.

With that little bit of housekeeping out of the way, I’m going to go right ahead and dive into the various boutique hotels Oahu – and Waikiki in particular – has to offer. Besides some of the best Hawaii boutique hotels can be found here!


TOP PICK WAIKIKI
best boutique hotels in Waikiki, Hawaii
Photo Credit: Booking.com

‘Alohilani Resort

Rating: 8 / 10 | Reviews: 1,990+

‘Alohilani Resort is the best boutique hotel in Waikiki for its proximity to the beach, ocean views and plethora of amenities.

Where to Stay in Oahu, Hawaii

Waikiki

When you’re thinking about where to stay in Oahu, there’s a clear frontrunner: Waikiki. Of all the best neighborhoods in Honolulu, this is the most popular for a number of reasons

First, some of the best hotels in Honolulu have established themselves here, next to fantastic sandy beaches, numerous stylish bars and bountiful trendy eateries that feature both local specialties and an international smorgasbord of global cuisines.

Many of the best places to stay in Waikiki Beach are right along the oceanfront, where you can almost step out of the hotel and right into the sea. If you ever get bored of soaking up the sun next to turquoise waters, there are numerous activities available to satisfy your adventurous side, including surfing, paddle boarding, parasailing, and water skiing. 

Due to Waikiki’s popularity as a holiday destination, you can also easily organize tours to other parts of the island from here should you want a break from idle bliss.

Ala Moana + Diamond Head

It’s not all about Waikiki, though. Among the other best places to stay in Honolulu are Ala Moana and Diamond Head. The former is very popular for shopping and entertainment, while the latter abuts a national park of the same name replete with serene natural scenery reminiscent of what you see from a few of the top Kauai boutique hotels.

Turtle Bay & Kailua

If you’re looking for where to stay on Oahu outside of Honolulu, Turtle Bay in the north is a popular choice for snorkeling, while Kailua to the east has an abundance of sandy beaches. To the west, Kapolei doesn’t have beaches right on its doorstep, but it does have family fun like the Coral Crater Adventure Park and the Wet ‘n’ Wild Water Park. 

Finally, for somewhere a little more untouched, Waianae and Makhana are two of the best places to stay in Oahu if you want less-visited shores that are popular with surfers. You can also find some really great surfer-friendly boutique hotels on Maui.

Best Boutique Hotels in Waikiki, Hawaii

1. Kaimana Beach Hotel

Honolulu Neighbourhood | Diamond Head

View from the lobby a wall filled with frames near the white couch
Best Boutique Hotels in Waikiki | Kaimana Beach Hotel via Booking.com

Rating: 8.4 / 10 | Reviews: 360+ | View on Booking.com

Best For | Beach Lovers, Families

Location | Kaimana Beach Hotel is one of the best Waikiki hotels on the beach. It sits just off a sandy stretch that’s popular with families because of its relatively calm waters

Within walking distance are the Honolulu top attractions, while the Diamond Head State Park is a slightly longer 40-minute stroll or a five-minute drive.

Features & Facilities | One of the best oceanfront hotels in Waikiki, this three-star property has a beachside restaurant (named Hau Tree) that’s right onto the sandy shore. As part of its beach club services, the resort offers a private beach host who will provide you with towels, chairs and umbrellas, as well as organic, reef-safe sunscreen.

Other activities available on site include hula dancing, weaving, lei making, yoga, stand-up paddle boarding, surfing and cruiser bikes that you can use to explore the local area.

Rooms | Part of what makes the Kaimana one of the best hotels in Oahu on the beach is that all its rooms come with a private lanai (balcony) with chairs and tables. Some feature views of the sea, while others look out on Diamond Head or the city of Honolulu.

Guests have no need to worry about staying hydrated since rooms are supplied with still and sparkling Vivreau water that is refreshed daily. There’s also a mini fridge, a flat-screen TV, air conditioning, Lather bath amenities and complimentary Wi-Fi.


2. Hotel Renew

Honolulu Neighbourhood | Waikiki

View of the boutique hotel on Oahu with a huge bed and a flat screen TV
Best Boutique Hotels in Waikiki | Hotel Renew via Booking.com

Rating: 8.4 / 10 | Reviews: 845+ | View on Booking.com

Best For | Families, Golfers

Location | If you’re looking for the best beachfront hotels in Waikiki Beach, Hotel Renew is just a few small steps from sand and sea

Nestled amidst plenty of eating options and a short walk to Ala Wai Golf Course, it’s great for foodies, putting enthusiasts and families alike.

Features & Facilities | Numbered among the four-star hotels in Waikiki, Hotel Renew offers beach towels and beach gear to its guests free of charge, including boogie boards, snorkeling gear and beach chairs.

While there isn’t a fitness center, mats, bands, weights and medicine balls can be supplied for an in-room workout, or you can take advantage of the free weekly yoga classes in the nearby park. The Recess Cafe & Bar, meanwhile, serves up coffee and cocktails throughout the day.

Rooms | Like most of the beach hotels Honolulu has to offer, Hotel Renew’s rooms boast a robust air conditioning system to keep you cool, as well as amenities like a bathrobe, a hair dryer and an ironing board.

If you’re travelling with children, the property is a solid contender for the list of best hotels in Honolulu for families because it has rooms with two double beds. Just make sure to keep the kids away from the Illy espresso machine if you don’t want to be up all night!


3. The Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club

Honolulu Neighbourhood | Waikiki

View of the wall art near the green couch
Best Boutique Hotels in Waikiki | The Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club via Booking.com

Rating: 8.6 / 10 | Reviews: 565+ | View on Booking.com

Best For | Pet Owners, Surfers

Location | Within walking distance of the beach and the International Market Place retail and entertainment complex, the Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club is one of the best boutique hotels in Hawaii if you’re looking for somewhere that is filled with a unique flair

Plus, downtown Honolulu is just 20 minutes drive away.

Features & Facilities | Designed with adults in mind, the Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club has a sizable pool where you can sip cocktails throughout the day – or at least when you’re not sunning yourself at the beach. In the evening, the pool area hosts a nightly movie screening.

For dining, the in-house Mahina & Sun’s restaurant uses organic produce sourced from local farmers in its dishes, while for shopping, Banks Journal vends clothing and souvenirs that upgrade the cheesy Hawaiian stereotype into a trendy fashion statement.

Rooms | Each room at the Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club boasts hand-crafted furniture in the bedrooms, custom-made tiles in the bathrooms and framed artwork on the walls. Few boutique hotel in Waikiki are as pet friendly as this one – in fact, the hotel has its own doggy mascot.

All guests can expect to find wireless speakers, a flat-screen TV, a coffee machine, a hairdryer and free BYRD toiletries inside their accommodation. Most rooms also feature a private lanai.


4. The Laylow

Honolulu Neighbourhood | Waikiki

View of the outdoor pool surrounded by white pool benches
Best Boutique Hotels in Waikiki | The Laylow via Booking.com

Rating: 8.4 / 10 | Reviews: 195+ | View on Booking.com

Best For | Pet Owners, Foodies

Location | Don’t be fooled by its name, The Laylow is one of the showiest, best hotels on Waikiki Beach. Numerous shops, restaurants and bars are located within walking distance, so you never have to worry about being far from the action. Walk to the beach or drive five minutes to the start of the Diamond Head trail hike.

Features & Facilities | While the pool is certainly a highlight of this modern Waikiki hotel (make sure to ask for a free Hawaiian-style shaved ice refreshment), the Laylow has lots of other enticements to offer. 

These include several on-site, independently run restaurants, such as the Korean eatery Seoul Tofu House, the seafood-centered Paia Fish Market and Texas-style BBQ joint Tex 808.

Aside from dining, guests can also enjoy nightly live music and complimentary daily activities like lei making and ukulele playing.

Rooms | There are a number of two-bedroom hotels in Waikiki, but The Laylow is one of the top-tier options, with deluxe rooms that come with either one or two king-sized beds. You can even opt to bring your furry friend along since the hotel is pet friendly.

There are some pretty stylish pads on offer here, featuring monstera wallpaper, mid-century furnishings and a lanai where you can gaze out on the bustle below. 

While you can’t take the in-room ukulele with you, you can enjoy a complimentary welcome basket, the signature ‘rubbah slippahs’ and Lather bathroom products.


5. Lotus Honolulu at Diamond Head

Honolulu Neighbourhood | Diamond Head

View of the room on a luxury hotel in Honolulu with a beautiful view of the mountain from  the terrace
Best Boutique Hotels in Waikiki | Lotus Honolulu at Diamond Head via Booking.com

Rating: 8.5 / 10 | Reviews: 475+ | View on Booking.com

Best For | Stunning Views

Location | Sandwiched between Kaimana Beach and Kapiʻolani Regional Park, the Lotus Honolulu boasts some of the best views of the Diamond Head volcanic tuff of all the hotels in Waikiki Hawaii. 

Top attractions are a short walk away, while the start of the Diamond Head trail is less than 10 minutes’ drive.

Features & Facilities | If you want a great boutique hotel in Honolulu that offers plenty of freebies with your stay, the Lotus Honolulu at Diamond Head is a great option. Guests can borrow complimentary cruiser bikes, beach chairs, towels and tennis equipment, as well as take part in a free yoga class on Saturday and free wine tastings from Wednesday to Sunday.

Fairly unusual for one of the best hotels on the beach in Honolulu, this place also offers free parking.

Rooms | Illy espresso machines, flat-screen TVs, iPod docks, mini-fridges, Wi-Fi, toiletries and laptop safes come as standard at Lotus Honolulu. You can also opt to have your pets in the room for an additional charge.

While every room has a balcony with a view, for the most stunning panorama you can’t beat the 1,700-square-foot Penthouse. This full-floor suite has two bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, a living area and an unparalleled outlook on Diamond Head.


6. Shoreline Hotel Waikiki

Honolulu Neighbourhood | Waikiki

View of the best hotel in Waikiki with vibrant colors of furnitures
Best Boutique Hotels in Waikiki | Shoreline Hotel Waikiki via Booking.com

Rating: 8.2 / 10 | Reviews: 585+ | View on Booking.com

Best For | Indie Style, Shopping

Location | Right in the center of the Waikiki area, the Shoreline Hotel is surrounded by shopping centers like the Royal Hawaiian as well as popular eateries such as iconic seafood surf shack Duke’s. The beach is just a short walk away, or drive into downtown Honolulu in under half an hour.

Features & Facilities | The Shoreline is one the best boutique hotels Waikiki has when it comes to pure character. Natural design elements meet loud colors throughout the communal spaces, from the welcoming lobby to the rooftop pool.

Things are (just a touch) more subtle at the all-day Heavenly Island Lifestyle restaurant, which exudes a surfer vibe and serves up dishes made using locally sourced ingredients, from the seafood to the organic greens.

Rooms | If you’re looking for four-star hotels in Honolulu that eschew subtle decor in favor of bright, cheerful patterns, the Shoreline Hotel is the lodging for you. Describing itself as ‘tropicool’, the Shoreline’s rooms feature patterned carpets, a feature wall with a map of Hawaii and private balconies.

No matter if you opt for a single queen, a single king, two double beds or a junior suite, you can expect to find a flat-screen TV, a mini fridge, a hot water kettle, a safe and ironing equipment.


7. ‘Alohilani Resort

Honolulu Neighbourhood | Waikiki

View of the unique pool area surrounded by cottages beside the building
Best Boutique Hotels in Waikiki | ‘Alohilani Resort via Booking.com

Rating: 8.0 / 10 | Reviews: 1,990+ | View on Booking.com

Best For | Luxury Travellers, Spa Lovers

Location | Towards the southern end of Waikiki, a short walk from the beach and the Ala Wai Golf Course, ‘Alohilani Resort is among the top luxury hotels Honolulu has to offer. 

Stroll out of the main entrance and along the street, and you’ll find yourself in one of the buzziest parts of Kalakaua Avenue.

Features & Facilities | Luxury hotels in Honolulu Hawaii don’t come much more opulent than the ‘Alohilani Resort. 

Aside from the 280,000-gallon, two-story saltwater oceanarium that dominates the lobby, what makes this one of the top five-star hotels in Waikiki is the array of facilities, which include outdoor swimming, a spa, tennis courts and a fitness center.

There are several different dining options on-site, including the poolside restaurant and bar, a ramen joint and a fine dining experience from Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto.

Rooms | Rooms at the ‘Alohilani Resort come with free Beach Candy rentals, including surfboards, paddle boards, beach chairs, umbrellas and other beach accessories. 

When you’re not out enjoying the seaside, however, you can relax in the effortless modern chic of the hotel rooms.

King rooms come with a variety of views from the private lanai, or you can opt instead for accommodation with a double queen. All choices come with flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, an in-room safe, an Andis hair dryer and a Keurig coffee machine.


8. The Modern Honolulu

Honolulu Neighbourhood | Waikiki

View of the hotel and its outdoor pool surrounded by pool benches
Best Boutique Hotels in Waikiki | The Modern Honolulu via Booking.com

Rating: 7.5 / 10 | Reviews: 810+ | View on Booking.com

Best For | Boat Enthusiasts, Beach Lovers

Location | Overlooking the Ala Wai Boat Harbour, the Modern Honolulu is towards the northern end of Waikiki, so if you’re looking for nice hotels in Waikiki that also offer easy access to downtown Honolulu, this is a solid option. 

Kahanamoku Beach, Waikiki Beach and Fort DeRussy Beach are all within walking distance.

Features & Facilities | The Modern Honolulu features a casual restaurant, The Grove, as well as three bars spread across the premises. There are two pools to choose from: the adults-only Sunset Pool and the family-friendly Sunrise Pool – despite their names, both open from 7am to 7pm.

Private parking is available, though as with many of the boutique hotels Honolulu offers, you’ll have to stump up an additional fee. Luggage storage, on the other hand, is complimentary.

Rooms | Marina views, ocean views and city views are among the room choices at the Modern Honolulu, which has rooms with two double beds as well as standard king-size rooms. 

The decor is clean and unfussy: white, cream and beige battle for supremacy in the color scheme. Rooms come with a flat-screen TV, a suit press, a Keurig coffee machine, slippers, complimentary toiletries and a hairy dryer. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.


9. Queen Kapiolani Hotel

Honolulu Neighbourhood | Waikiki

View of the pool near the white pool benches
Best Boutique Hotels in Waikiki | Queen Kapiolani Hotel via Booking.com

Rating: 8.4 / 10 | Reviews: 2,430+ | View on Booking.com

Best For | Stunning Views, Pet Owners

Location | Just across the road from the Honolulu Zoo, Queen Kapiolani is named for a member of the Hawaiian royal family. 

Waikiki Beach is a stone’s throw away, while Diamond Head State Monument is a more strenuous (but still manageable) half an hour’s walk.

Features & Facilities | Surfing demos, yoga classes and lei-making workshops are available throughout the week at the Queen Kapiolani, plus there’s also a decent-sized fitness center

As with many of the beach hotels Waikiki contains, guests have access to beach towels and beach chairs.

One of the highlights of the hotel is the third-floor terrace, which boasts an outdoor pool, a bar and grill, and stunning views of Diamond Head. This space connects directly to the Royal Club Lounge, a guests-only chillout spot where you can relax in comfort, watched over by portraits of former Hawaiian royals.

Rooms | Many of the rooms at Queen Kapiolani come with private balconies, but even the ones that don’t have nice large windows where you can take in the view. 

Incidentally, the Queen Kapiolani is one of the best hotels in Waikiki Beach if you value bright lodgings that are filled with light throughout the day.

Accommodations feature Serta Dream Mattresses, Hawaiian Tropics bathroom amenities, flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges and a laptop-sized safe. For a $250 fee, you can check in with up to two pets.


10. White Sands Hotel

Honolulu Neighbourhood | Waikiki

View of the pool area beside the pool benches and umbrellas
Best Boutique Hotels in Waikiki | White Sands Hotel via Booking.com

Rating: 8.0 / 10 | Reviews: 615+ | View on Booking.com

Best For | Shopping

Location | Balancing comfort, convenience and cost, the White Sands Hotel is a 3 star resort situated down an unassuming road, just off Ala Wai Boulevard

It’s less than 10 minutes’ walk from Waikiki Beach and surrounded by all the top shopping destinations in the area, including the International Market Place and Duke’s Marketplace.

Features & Facilities | While the White Sands may not be numbered among the 5 star hotels in Waikiki, it still boasts plenty of amenities. That includes an outdoor pool complete with a tiki hut bar, a cafe serving Kona coffee and a speakeasy-style cocktail lounge.

Boogie boards, beach chairs and even GoPro cameras are available to rent from the reception, as are portable power banks if you’re worried about running out of juice during your beach frolics or mountain hikes.

Rooms | White room furnishings at the White Sands Hotel are fairly simple, every single one does come with its own private balcony (or patio, if you’re room is on the ground floor). These feature either pool or city views and incorporate a little kitchenette area where you can make yourself a morning coffee.

Like most of the boutique hotels Waikiki Beach encompasses, the rooms come with a flat-screen TV, a safe, a mini fridge and free toiletries.


11. Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa

Honolulu Neighbourhood | Waikiki

View of the room with cozy bed near the white rocking chairs by the terrace
Best Boutique Hotels in Waikiki | Moana Surfrider via Booking.com

Rating: 8.6 / 10 | Reviews: 600+ | View on Booking.com

Best For | Spa Lovers, Beach Lovers

Location | Not many Honolulu luxury hotels have quite as grand a façade as the Moana Surfrider

Part of the Westin Resort & Spa collection, it’s one of the top oceanfront hotels Waikiki has to offer, situated right along the area’s world-famous sandy shores. Vibrant Kalakaua Avenue is right behind the accommodation.

Features & Facilities | If you’re looking for Oahu luxury hotels that have it all, the Moana Surfrider is the choice for you. Not only is there a freshwater pool and a private beach area, but guests can also arrange snorkeling, scuba diving, parasailing, surfing lessons, canoe rides – essentially, a whole ton of beach activities.

There are also several beachfront dining options, a fitness studio and a gorgeous spa that provides all manner of massages, body scrubs and facials.

Rooms | Rooms at Moana Surfrider tend to be smaller than the average size you will find in the best Waikiki resorts, with many of the more affordable options coming in at under 300 square feet. Decor leans towards the old-fashioned side, with lots of dark wood and thick carpets.

Somewhat shockingly for one of the top hotels in Waikiki, guests are charged extra to use the Wi-Fi, but otherwise, the room is well equipped with standard items like free toiletries, bathrobes, slippers, a flat-screen TV, a mini fridge and a safe.


12. Prince Waikiki

Honolulu Neighbourhood | Waikiki

View of the  elegant room with cozy bed near the wooden table
Best Boutique Hotels in Waikiki | Prince Waikiki via Booking.com

Rating: 8.8 / 10 | Reviews: 505+ | View on Booking.com

Best For | Couples, Beach Lovers

Location | Perched above the Ala Wai Boat Harbor, Prince Waikiki is one of the best Waikiki beach hotels. There are a plethora of sand-strewn stretches within a short walking distance, or take a longer one-hour stroll into downtown Honolulu (10 minutes drive by car). The Hawaii Convention Centre is also just around the corner.

Features & Facilities | Prince Waikiki is one of the best hotels in Waikiki for couples, offering honeymoon treatments in the Naio Bliss Spa, an adults-only infinity pool and a hot tub where you can watch the sunset.

For meals, gaze out over the harbour at the 100 Sails Restaurant & Bar, which serves up modern takes on traditional Hawaiian favourites, or indulge in Japanese cuisine par excellence at Katsumidori Sushi Tokyo.

Rooms | Sleek, tasteful decor defines the Prince Waikiki, which manages to convey simple sophistication through creamy furnishings with subtle design flairs. All rooms come with floor-to-ceiling windows that look out on the ocean, so you can wake up to the glorious sight of the sun glittering over turquoise waves.

The spacious rooms are equipped with extra-large double beds, a sectional sofa, a work nook, a flat-screen TV, a coffee maker, a tea kettle and a mini fridge.


13. Halekulani

Honolulu Neighbourhood | Waikiki

View of the room with cozy bed near the white couch in the corner near the balcony
Best Boutique Hotels in Waikiki | Halekulani via Booking.com

Rating: 9.3 / 10 | Reviews: 460+ | View on Booking.com

Best For | Beach Lovers

Location | One of the best hotels Waikiki Beach has to show for itself, Halekulani is surrounded by bars, restaurants and cafes

Smack bang in the middle of Fort DeRussy Beach and Waikiki Beach, guests have a choice of two fabulous sandy shores within walking distance, or travel a bit further afield to reach Diamond Head and the Ala Wai Golf Course.

Features & Facilities | Of all the five-star hotels in Waikiki, none has quite as much of an artistic temperament as the Halekulani. The building boasts a specially curated collection of paintings and sculptures sprinkled throughout the property.

To complement the aesthetic, Halekulani also features an in-house spa, a fitness center, a live jazz lounge, an outdoor swimming pool and three restaurants: La Mer, featuring fine French cuisine; all-day oceanfront eatery Orchids; and House Without A Key, a great place to devour dinner as the sun sets.

Rooms | Very few luxury hotels in Waikiki Hawaii have a separate shower and bath in every room, but that’s just one of the things that sets Halekulani apart. 

Private balconies (many of which face the ocean) are another universal standard, as is the welcome basket of fresh fruit and custom chocolates that greet every guest.

On top of these aspects, the rooms come with free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, plush bathrobes, premium toiletries, a Nespresso coffee maker and a mini fridge.


14. Espacio the Jewel of Waikiki

Honolulu Neighbourhood | Waikiki

View of the luxury room with cozy bed near the terrace
Best Boutique Hotels in Waikiki | Espacio the Jewel of Waikiki via Booking.com

Rating: 9.9 / 10 | Reviews: 20+ | View on Booking.com

Best For | Luxury Travellers

Location | Up there with the best boutique hotels Hawaii Honolulu contains, Espacio the Jewel of Waikiki is an eye-catching property on Kalakaua Avenue, directly in front of Waikiki Beach. 

The buzzy bars and restaurants that fill Waikiki are within walking distance.

Features & Facilities | Espacio is the creme de la creme boutique hotel Waikiki Hawaii has to offer. Not only is there a rooftop infinity pool with a gourmet barbecue space, whirlpool and sundeck, but the building also contains a full-service spa and a fine dining restaurant.

As part of the perks of staying here, guests can expect round-trip luxury airport transportation, complimentary admission to the Bishop Museum and Honolulu Museum of Art, and a daily continental breakfast.

Rooms | Even compared to other luxury hotels in Oahu, Espacio is exclusive. There are just nine suites available on the whole property, each named for a precious stone. 

The sheer size of each accommodation makes Espacio one of the best hotels in Oahu for families, with up to three bedrooms featuring extra-large double beds per suite.

Each lodging comes with a fully equipped kitchen, a spacious balcony with Jacuzzi and a sauna, plus all the other amenities you’d expect from a five-star experience. Guests are welcomed with a couple of bottles of wine to get your holiday off to a decadent start.


15. Halepuna Waikiki

Honolulu Neighbourhood | Waikiki

View of the pool area near the pool benches under the blue sky
Best Boutique Hotels in Waikiki | Halepuna Waikiki via Booking.com

Rating: 9.0 / 10 | Reviews: 1,020+ | View on Booking.com

Best For | Beach Lovers

Location | Another sumptuous boutique experience, the Halepuna Waikiki was voted the best hotel in Hawaii by Conde Nast Traveler readers in 2021

Set a little back from the bustle of the beach, just a couple of minutes’ walk and you will find your toes deep in silky-soft sand. All of Waikiki’s finest shopping, dining and drinking establishments are on the doorstep.

Features & Facilities | Guests have access to all the facilities at Halepuna’s sister resort, Halekulani (check those out above). If you want to stay in the building, however, Halepuna has its own fitness center and Urban Oasis, complete with an infinity pool, hot tub, pool bar and green space.

One of the best hotels to stay in Waikiki for those with a sweet tooth, the in-house bakery has a chocolate-viewing kitchen where guests can observe delicious goodies being made – guaranteed to make you want to buy some afterwards! 

There’s also a seafood-centric eatery on site as well.

Rooms | Complimentary Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, bath amenities, a safe, a mini fridge, charging stations, air conditioning – all the standard fixtures are here at Halepuna Waikiki, as well as TOTO washlets (fancy Japanese toilet-bidets) and floor-to-ceiling balcony doors.

While views vary by room type, all accommodations are decked out in a colour palette of white, gray, beige and blue, from the walls and carpeting to the bedding and furniture.


Best Boutique Hotels in Oahu (Further Afield)

16. Turtle Bay Resort – Kahuku

Honolulu Neighbourhood | Kahuku

View of the living room and the balcony with wooden chairs
Best Boutique Hotels in Waikiki | Turtle Bay Resort via Booking.com

Rating: 9.2 / 10 | Reviews: 305+ | View on Booking.com

Best For | Luxury Travellers, Families

Location | Situated on the northern tip of the island, Turtle Bay Resort is one of the best 5 star hotels on Oahu. There are a total of seven beaches to choose from, no matter if you want to go for a swim in placid waters, catch a wave on your surfboard or discover underwater life with your snorkeling gear. 

Nearby, you can discover more about the unique natural fauna at the James Campbell National Wildlife Refuge.

 Features & Facilities | Sprawling across 1,300 acres of land, Turtle Bay Resort has everything a guest could want. Aside from the beaches, there are several different pools, including an adults-only area and another with slides for kids. Guests can golf, play tennis, go horseback riding, relax at the spa, learn how to play the ukulele or take a fitness class.

For eating and drinking, there are six different restaurants and bars. Make sure you don’t miss the weekly lu’au at the Stables, held every Wednesday and featuring traditional entertainment, roasted pig and hula lessons.  

Rooms | With 408 guest rooms and suites, the Turtle Bay Resort has a pretty sizable range of accommodation options. Even the most basic choice is 478 square feet and most feature a private balcony with stunning views of the surrounding beach paradise.

Amenities include a flat-screen smart TV a Beats Pill speaker, a Lavazza coffee maker, a mini fridge, a seating area with a sofa, complimentary bathroom products and a mini fridge.


17. Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina

Honolulu Neighbourhood | Kapolei

View of the luxury room with white bed near the study table near the balcony
Best Boutique Hotels in Waikiki | Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina via Booking.com

Rating: 9.3 / 10 | Reviews: 85+ | View on Booking.com

Best For | Luxury Travellers, Families

Location | The Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina is located on the southwestern side of Oahu, completely secluded from the rest of the island. This gorgeous getaway has everything you could want on site, including four beach coves. 

Nearby, the town of Kapolei features family-friendly activities like the Wet ‘n’ Wild water park.

Features & Facilities | Soup up your skin at the spa, hit a round of golf on the links, take a UTV tour through the Kaa’a’wa Valley, go snorkeling off an outrigger canoe, spend the evening stargazing – there are a huge number of experiences the Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina can organise to make your trip a once-in-lifetime holiday.

There’s also a fitness center with top-of-the-line equipment, seven different restaurants and bars, four swimming pools, tennis courts and a complimentary kids club featuring fun cultural activities.

Rooms | Private balconies with seating for two and marble bathrooms with both a bathtub and a walk-in shower come as standard at the Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina, which also offers guests a choice of plush, signature or firm mattress toppers when they book.

All rooms boast an air purifier, a flat-screen TV, free toiletries, a coffee maker, a well-stocked mini fridge and a safe, among the other standard features.


Best Boutique Hotels in Honolulu Waikiki Map

Best Boutique Hotels in Honolulu Waikiki Map

Best Boutique Hotels in Waikiki Hawaii Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most luxurious hotel in Waikiki?

5-star ‘Alohilani Resort is the most luxurious hotel Honolulu has to offer. This facility has a two-story saltwater oceanarium that dominates the lobby. It also has an outdoor swimming pool and spa, tennis courts, and a fitness center.

There are several different dining options on-site too, including a poolside restaurant and bar, a ramen restaurant and a fine dining experience from Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto.

What hotel in Waikiki has the best amenities?

Espacio the Jewel of Waikiki is exclusive. There are just nine suites available on the whole property, which are named after precious stones. Each room comes with a fully equipped kitchen, a spacious balcony with Jacuzzi, and a sauna, plus all the other amenities you’d expect from a five-star experience.

What hotel in Waikiki has a spa?

Almost all of the hotels on the list have a spa. But the one that stands out is Prince Waikiki which offers admirable treatments in the Naio Bliss Spa.

What boutique hotels in Waikiki are romantic?

Prince Waikiki is one of the hotels perfect for couples that offer honeymoon treatments on their onsite spa, Naio Bliss Spa, and a hot tub where you can watch the beautiful sunset.

Which are the best Waikiki boutique hotels on the beach?

Halekulani is the best hotel located on the beach in the middle of Fort DeRussy Beach and Waikiki Beach. Guests have a choice of two fabulous sandy shores within walking distance.

What is the coolest hotel in Waikiki?

If you’re looking for a boutique hotel in Honolulu that has cool decor in favor of bright, cheerful patterns, the Shoreline Hotel is the best accommodation for you. Known as ‘tropicool’, the Shoreline’s rooms feature patterned carpets, a feature wall with a map of Hawaii, and private balconies.

What is the best boutique hotel in Waikiki for families?

Espacio the Jewel of Waikiki has nine suites available on the whole property. This property is one of the best hotels in Oahu for families, with up to three-bedroom suites featuring extra-large double beds per room.

What is the best boutique hotel in Oahu for surfers?

The Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club and Moana Surfrider are both just a walking distance of the beach (the latter is right on the beach!) Perfect for beginner surfers to catch some waves at Honolulu Beach.

Which boutique hotel in Waikiki is pet friendly?

Many of the boutique hotels in Waikiki are pet-friendly, but I recommend Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club if you’re travelling with your furry friend. This facility even has its own doggy mascot.

Best Boutique Hotels in Waikiki Honolulu Conclusion

Hopefully, this post has given you a great idea of the many boutique hotels in Honolulu, particularly the best boutique hotels in Waikiki. When it comes to beach paradises that leave you feeling relaxed, rested, and completely restored, there are few better places in the world than this little slice of heaven.

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

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