Are you planning a trip to Honolulu and are lost in the hotel/ amenities department? This blog post is for you! Whether you are coming to the island for a family vacay, elopement, honey moon, or just to live your best life- I’m giving you the complete info on the best, trendy, most Instagram worthy Waikiki hotels nestled in the heart of Honolulu!
Waikiki is notorious for being an upbeat and lively neighborhood to its locals and guests. Previously established as “stomping grounds for Hawaiian royalty”, Waikiki is a spot you cant miss! With a strip soley dedicated to designer shopping brands, fine wine and dining, surf and beach areas and the Honolulu Zoo- it’s the perfect spot to stay if your wanting a “modern take” on island life. With an abundance of worldwide tourists calls for an abundance of world-class, trendy, hotels that are guaranteed to live up to all of your Instagram picture dreams! These 6 best trendy Waikiki hotels are at the top of my list of recommendations!
The Surf Jack
Located on Lewers St. Honolulu, this mid-century hotel aims to stay true to its island roots through its authentic, retro, creative & soulful Hawaii decor. Surf Jack hotel celebrates its uniqueness by encouraging guests to get outside and explore the island’s magic. This Waikiki hotel is the perfect fit for anyone wanting to get the “island” feel in the city.
Price
From my research, I would say that the average price per night is around $250.
Rating
4.5 stars
Best feature
A cool thing about this hotel is that it offers a pool known as the “swim club”- a spot where locals and guests can enjoy lounging around, drinking a cocktail, and enjoying themselves! Their pool is so so cool, a work of art and would make the cutest vacation photo feature!
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Kaimana Beach Hotel
If an ocean view is what you had in mind when vacating, then the Kaimana Beach Hotel is the perfect fit for you! Its claim to fame is the only boutique property located directly on sand- boujee but make it island style. A creative and modern space with an island influence makes this hotel’s decor and atmosphere fitting for those who have an eye for creative pieces and decor. This Waikiki hotel is stunning, to say the least!
Price
The average price per/ night is around $350.00
Rating
4.4 stars
Best Feature
For those wanting to experience fun activities but have no time to plan them- the Kaimana Club is a nice touch. For an extra fee, they will provide you with various activities to try: a pro surf school, wellness classes that include stand-up paddle boarding, Hawaiian culture classes that teach you how to make leis & many more! Very fun and stress-free.
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The Modern Honolulu
The Modern Hotel is an excellent choice for guests who may prefer more of a resort type feel. With endless options of amenities, accommodations, and a location so close to the Ala Moana Shopping Centre- this hotel will make your stay easy and convenient. It doesn’t portray the “island” style as much as others, but for some guests, that may be the ideal option. Its sleek, modern, and innovative design will give you all the city vibes and is a beautiful Waikiki Hotel.
Price
Around $250.00 a night.
Rating
4.1 Stars
Best Feature
Their commitment sustainability is a big draw for me!-lots of natural lighting, eco-friendly cleaning products, led lighting in the rooms, and farm to table organic + in season menus in their restaurant. The Modern Honolulu has the most beautiful outdoor dining restaurant-The Grove with a beautiful view and decor. Their Sunrise Pool is also super beautiful-a sophisticated take on mid-century modern style.
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The Laylow Hotel, Autograph Collection
The Laylow hotel is part of the Autograph collection series by the Mariott chain. This hotel prides itself on its mid-century modern aesthetic that captures 1960’s Hawaii at a standstill. With modern amenities and the classic Hawaii experience- what could be better? The Laylow is the perfect combination of the lowkey, laid-back vibe with a present, up-to-date feel. This Waikiki hotel is a fantastic modern oasis.
Price
Around $350.00 per night
Rating
4.5 stars
Best Feature
If you’re a big foodie, this hotel may be for you! What could be better with its location so close to Waikiki’s island cuisines? Ethnic food, beverages, hole-in-the-wall restaurants, island cuisine, and lively nightlife, this may be all the entertainment needed by some guests!
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The Royal Hawaiian- Luxury Collection
We’re onto another Mariott special- The Royal Hawaiian, part of the Luxury Collection. This Waikiki hotel is considered a resort full of “timeless luxury.” Known as the “pink palace of the Pacific,” the hotel offers guests an exotic experience with rich Hawaiian spirit and culture. If you appreciate vibrant colors and a tropical environment- this hotel in Waikiki is defiantly the fit for you!
Price
This Waikiki hotel is definitely more pricey, but its entire portfolio makes up for it. With the average price of $550.00 a night, you will surely get your money’s worth.
Rating
It is rated as a 5-star hotel.
Best Feature
This hotel is a living museum! The second hotel to be built in Waikiki, in 1927. Walk through its grand hallways, elevators, take in the decor-it is such a treasure and worth strolling through and experiencing it, even if you don’t stay here. The Royal Hawaiian also offers a one-of-a-kind tour that takes attendees through the resort to learn about its unique and historical treasures, along with emphasizing the importance of the resort’s sacred grounds.
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Queen Kapiolani Hotel
The Queen Kapiolani Hotel is named after the reigning Queen of Hawaii-Queen Kapiolani. She reigned from 1874-1891 and was known for her immense love and service for the Hawaiian people. She was extremely well loved by the people and her legacy is still a very large part of modern day Hawaii. Known for its exquisite view of Diamond Head and the ocean- this hotel is an excellent option for anyone wanting to stay in Waikiki. If you choose to stay at the Queen Kapiolani, check out the garden named after the late Hawaiian queen as well. Notorious for its overflow of hibiscus (the state’s national flower), this garden is sure to live up to all expectations.
Price
The average price per night is around $410.00.
Rating
4.0 Star
Best Feature
The Queen Kapiolani prides itself in offering activities that will last you the whole day. With fitness classes such as yoga and a running club in the morning, then group activities during the day, you’ll be ready to treat yourself to some fine dining in the evening. Not to mention their Knots Coffee Roasters, which serves as a quaint little cafe for its guests.
Additional Resources
Now that you’ve got a complete guide on my list of best Waikiki hotels- I’m here to offer you more! I have a variety of different resources for your use and benefit so you can get the most out of your Hawaii trip! I’ve linked some additional guides with plenty of other information you may need when planning your stay on Oahu.
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