Situated on the south shore of the Hawaiian island of Oahu is the neighborhood of Waikiki. Known locally as “spouting waters”, this world-renowned district in the city of Honolulu once served as the go-to destination for Hawaiian royalty. Waikiki was introduced to the rest of the world in 1901 when the iconic Moana Surfrider hotel was constructed on its shores.
Today, this vibrant neighborhood serves as a gathering place for tourists from all over the world and is home to some of Hawaii’s most popular destinations, including the prominent Waikiki Beach.
As the main hotel and resort area of the island, you are spoiled for choice when it comes to accommodations in Waikiki. The tourist hotspot is home to numerous extravagant hotels that cater to travelers who want to get pampered during their stay. If you’re looking for a memorable stay, check out our list of the best luxury hotels in Waikiki. (Pro tip: Find a luggage storage locker where you can temporarily store your belongings before you head out to explore.)
Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa
If you’re looking for the ultimate Waikiki experience, why not stay at the place where it all started – the Moana Surfrider. Built in 1901, the hotel is affectionately nicknamed the “First Lady of Waikiki” and offers guests a lavish stay that will take you back to the time of Old Hawaii. The hotel boasts an iconic colonial porte-cochere and features a full range of services and amenities that truly screams luxury; the rooms here are equipped with ultra-comfortable beds and spacious bathrooms among other modern installations.
Additionally, those staying at the Moana Surfrider can enjoy facilities such as a fully-equipped fitness center, an outdoor pool, six on-site bars and the only beachfront spa in the whole of Waikiki. The hotel is also within striking distance of Waikiki Beach as well as other entertainment and shopping establishments.
The Royal Hawaiian, A Luxury Collection Resort
Photo by Jess Loiterton: https://www.pexels.com/photo/white-and-blue-concrete-building-near-body-of-water-4610332/
Staying true to its name, The Royal Hawaiian five-star hotel and resort has all you need for a trip filled with relaxation and luxury. Often referred to as the “Pink Palace” because of its easily-recognizable pink façade, the hotel is strategically located in Waikiki Beach and has long been a symbol of Honolulu opulence ever since it opened its doors in 1927.
Apart from its sizeable guest rooms and suites, the Royal Hawaiian also boasts an extensive range of amenities, including outdoor pools, an award-winning cocktail bar, an exclusive beach area, on-site restaurants and a deluxe spa and wellness center.
Named after the Hawaiian phrase meaning “house befitting heaven”, Halekulani Hotel is one of the best places in Waikiki to have a luxurious stay. The five-star beachfront hotel spreads more than five acres of shores and offers an unparalleled view of the iconic Diamond Head. The guest rooms and suites at Halekulani are outfitted with the latest amenities and all come with ocean views.
Additionally, the hotel houses some incredible facilities and establishments available to guests, including a wellness center, cocktail bars and on-site restaurants, such as the award-winning French restaurant La Mer. As a bonus for guests, Halekulani also has an incredible For You, Everything program, wherein all guests are given free transportation and tickets to some of Honolulu’s most famous attractions.
If you’re looking for posh accommodation that offers a little bit more privacy, The Kahala Hotel and Resort is the perfect choice for you. Situated in the upscale neighborhood of Kahala, where it got its name from, this five-star hotel resort is known for its massive oceanfront rooms and suites, all equipped with iHome docking centers, flat-screen televisions, and more.
Guests are also given free access to the different hotel facilities, including four on-site restaurants, on-site activities (like surfing lessons), a modern fitness center and a full-service spa that offers treatments and beauty services. The Kahala is also a top-notch choice for those looking to escape from the crowds of Waikiki Beach and have a more relaxing getaway without being too far from all the action.
Photo by Nico Smit on Unsplash
For those who need a “home away from home”, the Hilton Hawaiian Village is a prime choice in Waikiki. This self-contained resort is the biggest one in the whole state of Hawaii; the gigantic property encompasses 22 acres with nearly 3,000 rooms, five guest towers, 20 bars and restaurants, around 100 shops, five pools, and its own lagoon, waterfall and beach area. Moreover, the Hilton Hawaiian Village is also home to a full-service salon and spa, a fitness gym, business center, a health clinic and even a wedding chapel.
The hotel resort has everything you could possibly need and you don’t have to leave the property. If you do want to leave and check out what’s going on outside the property, the Hilton Hawaiian Village’s strategic location makes it easy for guests to check out popular attractions such as Waikiki Beach.
The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach
The Ritz-Carlton brand has long been synonymous with luxury and its Waikiki Beach outpost is no exception. Especially great for longer stays, the Ritz-Carlton Residences has all the conveniences of a home but with the top-notch services of a five-star hotel. The property has a variety of guest rooms – from well-appointed studios to residential rooms and penthouses – all of which have stunning views of the ocean.
The rooms are fully equipped with amenities such as deep soaking bathtubs and smart televisions while the residential accommodations have their own kitchen, washing machine, and even dishwashers! Guests of The Ritz are also treated to some lovely hotel facilities, including an infinity pool on the eighth floor with private cabanas, a 24-hour fitness center, multiple on-site restaurants and a world-class spa and wellness center. The property is also a stone’s throw away from noteworthy spots around the city; The Ritz is just about 200 meters away from the popular Luxury Row, which is Honolulu’s premier shopping destination, and some 300 meters away from the Waikiki Beach.
Sources:
https://www.journeyera.com/5-star-hotels-waikiki-honolulu-oahu/
https://www.tripsavvy.com/best-waikiki-beach-hotels-4173151
https://www.forbestravelguide.com/destinations/oahu-hawaii
https://www.frommers.com/destinations/oahu/introduction/the-best-luxury-hotels
