Honolulu
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About Honolulu
A bustling tropical city dominated by swish skyscrapers and a thriving business district, Honolulu is an excellent destination for a lively city break, complete with buzzing nightlife, hip bars and fantastic eateries. Surrounded by lush mountains, Hawaii's biggest city is a popular pick for the start or end of many a Hawaiian adventure, and it’s a wonderful place to get a sense of the islands’ character. Accommodation options are wide-ranging, with chic city hotels, self-catering spots and beautiful resorts set along picturesque Waikiki Beach.
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Begin your cultural explorations at ‘Iolani Palace, the only royal palace in the USA, before venturing to Bishop Museum, the Hawaii State Art Museum, Honolulu Museum of Art and the USS Arizona Memorial. Families will love the Honolulu Zoo and ambling through Queen Kapiolani Park. Ala Moana, the largest open-air shopping centre in the world, is great for a stroll, whilst the markets of Chinatown are a particular favourite of ours. Quirky little alleys where traders from across the globe once congregated are now home to artsy bars and an edgy evening scene.
If you’re dreaming of an expansive beach resort with heaps of activities, top-notch facilities and glamorous guest rooms, Waikiki Beach is the perfect choice. A huge expanse of golden sand framed by the ancient volcanic crater of Diamond Head at one end, the beach is also ideal for an early morning or evening surf or outrigger canoe trip.
For a more tranquil beach escape, venture across to the other side of Diamond Head, where there are fewer visitors and an abundance of spectacular scenery. Beyond the city centre, there are myriad hiking trails in Oahu's verdant mountains, lush flora at the Lyon Arboretum and amazing views from Pu’u ‘Ualala’a State Wayside Park. Many of Oahu’s volcanic craters and gullies are now superb diving sites — including Hanauma Bay. Don’t miss the chance to experience the region’s many wonders, both on land and at sea.
The best places to stay in Honolulu book up quickly during the school holidays in July and August, as well as over Christmas and New Year. Do organise your trip well in advance to guarantee a room at your top spot!
The Best Places to Stay in Honolulu
For Vintage Chic
- Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club is a 1960s Hawaii-inspired boutique property, just five minutes from Waikiki Beach. Pick this place for its quirky vintage decor, eclectic artwork and the delectable food and cocktails. For a funky, youthful feel.
For City Style
- The Modern is a smart high-rise hotel with superb harbour and sea views from slick, minimalist rooms. With a selection of bars and eateries, two spas and a nightclub, this is a terrific city break pick for business or leisure.
- The Laylow is a lively city hotel just minutes from Waikiki Beach. Expect bright, colourful interiors with bold artwork and private balconies, a central pool, innovative cocktails and cracking Korean fare. For a fun-filled city stay.
For Couples
- Queen Kapiolani sits on the edge of Queen Kapiolani Park and Waikiki Beach, with uninterrupted views of dramatic Diamond Head. Think chic rooms with splashes of teal and coral, as well as a trendy art gallery, live music nights and laid-back eateries. Families are welcome, but this feels more like a hip couples' retreat.
- Halekulani boasts an illustrious past as one of the first hotels in Hawaii. Stay here for a heritage feel, with elegant rooms and suites featuring a soothing colour palette and striking sea views. The sumptuous afternoon tea and the live late-night jazz are real highlights. Very romantic — and popular for weddings.
For a Family-Friendly Beach Resort
- 'Alohilani Resort is a cool, contemporary Waikiki Beach property with a trendy, laid-back feel. Well-suited to couples or families, the hotel features chic interiors, a fun infinity pool, great fitness facilities and the buzzing Monkeypod Kids Club. The eateries are a big draw, too.
- Ritz Carlton Residences Waikiki Beach promises a swish, sophisticated stay in a glitzy high-rise building close to Waikiki Beach. Highlights include world-class dining, an indulgent spa and eighth-floor infinity pools. There are facilities and activities for the whole family, as well as the possibility of heading towards the city or the beach.
- The Kahala Hotel & Resort offers a tranquil beachfront stay in lush surroundings beyond Honolulu city centre. Fantastic for families, the resort features contemporary rooms and suites, swimming pools, a spa, water sports, multiple dining options and activities for little ones. A great beach pick.
FOR AN APARTMENT OR VILLA
- If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.
Travel Information
- Fly to Daniel K. Inouye International Airport and travel to your destination by bus or taxi. Most hotels will be happy to arrange an airport pickup in advance.
- There's lots of explore by car in and around Honolulu! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
- You can expect brilliant year-round weather, with temperatures averaging at around 27°C. December and July are peak season, and hotels book up fast during the school holidays. Come in the spring (April - May) or autumn (September - October) for fewer crowds and great hotel deals.
STILL NOT SURE?
- Browse our list of the best places to stay in Maui.
- Expand your search to include all the best places to stay in Hawaii.
- Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.
Weather
Monthly Weather in Honolulu
Best Hotels in Honolulu
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Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club Honolulu (Oahu) 112 rooms from €164
Beach Life - The hotel is a couple of streets from the beach where guests can enjoy activities like surfing and paddle boardingRestaurant - Mahina & Sun's restaurant offers dishes made with organic ingredients serving breakfast, lunch and dinnerGreat walks - Diamond Head State Monument is only a 15 minute drive awayLocal markets - The International Market Place is 8 minutes' walk awayA 1960s Hawaii vintage style boutique hotel, just 5 minutes from Waikiki Beach. Rooms are spacious and luxury with local eclectic artworks, ceiling fans, private balconies and walk-in showers. Lounge by the pool in a cabana and sip on creative cocktails. The restaurant serves delicious local fare. See More
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Wayfinder Waikiki Honolulu (Oahu) 228 rooms from €168
Local exploring - Explore coastal roads, wild beaches and hiking trails just 15 minutes away on the East Side of OahuBeach Life - Beach chairs, boogie boards, pool towels and Go Pros available at front desk as part of resort feeLocal markets - At North Shore Marketplace find the best chocolate bananas on the island!Surfing - Watch surfers in action on the North Shore or have a go yourself!A vibrant hotel set in Oahu's South Shore. Interiors champion a fresh, modern feel with colourful decor and cute Hawaiian touches — think surfboard style headboards and tropical flowers. All-day restaurant offers poke bowls plus there's a poolside speakeasy. A cool stay with a chic beachside vibe. See More
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The Laylow Honolulu (Oahu) 251 rooms from €213
Local exploring - Take a day trip to the surf capitol of Haleiwa on the North ShoreBeach Life - The hotel offers towels and chairs for a perfect beach dayRestaurant - The hotel's restaurant is a traditional Korean eatery serving soondubu, Korean BBQ and cold noodle specialtiesGreat walks - The hotel is less than 5km from Diamond Head Crater HikeA contemporary boutique hotel, just 5 minutes from Waikiki beach. Spacious and contemporary rooms filled with creative artworks, stunning ocean views from private balconies and walk-in showers. Enjoy delicious Korean fare, relax by the pool in a private cabana and sip on innovative cocktails. See More
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Queen Kapiolani Honolulu (Oahu) 315 rooms from €255
Beach Life - Ideally situated just steps from Waikiki Beach, this hotel is perfect for a relaxing seaside getawayRomantic Break - With uninterrupted sea views from the hotel, book this beach bolt-hole for a romantic island holidayFamilies - Larger suites can accommodate up to two children, perfect for a family beach breakSeaside - Ideal for a seaside holiday.This chic hotel is nestled on the edge of Kapiolani Park, steps from spectacular Waikiki Beach. Guestrooms have traditional Hawaiian furniture in pastel palettes and regional art. The hotel's sleek swimming pool boasts unobstructed views of Diamond Head, the perfect place to rest and rejuvenate. See More
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Alohilani Resort Honolulu (Oahu) 839 rooms from €258
Foodies - Famous Japanese chef, Waikiki Beach, has an outpost. There's also cocktail bars, beach clubs bites, Sunday brunch & Haagen-DazsBeach Life - Rent a cabana at the ocean-facing infinity pool or head to Waikiki Beach for surfing, swimming and snorkellingFamilies - The Monkeypod Kids club offers daily indoor and outdoor activities from kite-making to lawn gamesSights nearby - Hononlulu offers plenty to do from swimming with dolphins, hiking and golf to historical sites such as Pearl HarbourContemporary beach resort with a lively Copacabana party-feel. Ocean views abound from the infinity pool, restaurants and room balconies. Interiors are fresh with clean lines, blonde woods and calming cream palette. The relaxed but upscale vibe suits sociable couples and families in equal measure. See More
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The Modern, Honolulu Honolulu (Oahu) 353 rooms from €324
Local markets - Farmers markets showcase freshly baked goods, home grown fruit and veg and local cuisines.Fishing - Go deep sea fishing.Lively - Hip and happening.Seaside - Ideal for a seaside holiday.Recommended by - Mr & Mrs SmithHigh rise resort and contemporary luxury inside. Rooms are light, fully equipped with some offering sea views. Handful of restaurants, four bars, two spas and a nightclub when the day of relaxing is over. The perfect destination for a city breaks in the heart of Hawaii's capital. See More
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Halekulani Honolulu (Oahu) 453 rooms from €477
Sailing - Can be booked nearby.Seaside - Ideal for a seaside holiday.Fishing - Excellent fishing nearby.Sea Views - From some rooms.Five star luxury in an unbeatable location on Waikiki Beach, overlooking Diamond Head. Rooms are contemporary, large and well equipped. Award winning restaurants on site offer a variety of cuisines & all feature locally sourced produce. Ideal for an active beach break, with city benefits too! See More
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Kahala Hotel & Resort Honolulu (Oahu) 371 rooms from €490
5* Luxury - Known to have played host to some very discerning guests (think Angelina Jolie) - be prepared to be seriously pamperedFamilies - A well equipped kids clubs runs a wide range of activities every day of the week leaving parents plenty of downtimeBeach Life - Set on 800-foot long white sandy beach with complimentary beach loungers and five-star serviceRestaurant - Whether you fancy sushi or a cut of wagyu beef, the three excellent restaurants have got you coveredRecommended by - TabletA five-star resort set in a discrete spot on a stretch of white sand beach. Well-appointed rooms have all the luxury trimmings - clean modern design, chaise longues, bathtubs, and goose-down duvets. Three restaurants offer up some serious fine-dining plus there's a spa and host of activities. See More
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Ritz Carlton Residences Waikiki Beach Honolulu (Oahu) 204 rooms from €647
Local exploring - The resort is just a short walk from the beautiful beaches of Waikiki, premium dining and shopping destinationsFamilies - With spacious suites, kid-friendly pools and an ice-cream cart- families will love this resortBack to Nature - Discover the natural beauty at Diamond Head Crater and Kapiolani ParkSpa - The spa uses native elements, including volcanic stones, rainforest leaves, lehua blossoms and lomilomi massage techniquesA luxury family-friendly resort, set in the glamorous neighbourhood of Waikiki Beach. Spacious and chic rooms with incredible views of the ocean and marble bathrooms. Indulge in Hawaiian spa treatments and relax by the rooftop infinity pool. Don't miss the one-of-a-kind Japanese tasting-menu. See More