Capture moments instantly with the best Polaroid cameras
By Afina NajibFeb 01, 2024
Instantly print your photos and share them with your friends when you use a Polaroid camera, which is handy to have on special occasions.
Smart Shopper is reader supported. When you shop our picks, we may receive a commission.
The best hotels in Hawaii for an unforgettable vacation
Headed to Hawaii? Ensure you have the best vacation possible by checking out these top Hawaii hotels.
If you’re lucky enough to have Hawaii next on your travel list (we wish we were you!), then you’ll need to book a hotel.
Finding the right hotel for you in paradise can be a little tricky — from hotels next to pristine sandy beaches or ocean-edge cliffs, Hawaii offers an abundance of fantastic hotels to choose from.
So read on for our hand-picked selection of the best hotels in Hawaii for every kind of traveler, budget or vacation in mind.
Read more: Make packing easier than ever with these packing cubes
Our favorite hotels in Hawaii
Best for families
If you’re looking for a great vacation in Hawaii for the whole family, look no further than the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa.
Located in Koloa, this hotel has an array of amenities and fun activities for the entire family to enjoy. The scenic hotel sits among a range of river pools and tropical gardens, transporting you to paradise every time you leave your room.
With a large pool, water sports facilities, horse stables and kids’ outdoor play equipment, we’re sure that your little ones will never run out of activities to make this an unforgettable vacation. There is even a babysitting service for when you want a break!
However, that’s not all. There are tons of activities for adults to enjoy as well, such as an impressive golf course, tennis courts, walking tours, a luxurious spa to pamper yourself, and much more!
We also think you’ll be impressed with the bright and spacious hotel rooms, each coming with a coffee machine and private balcony to enjoy a morning coffee in solitude. There are also seven restaurants onsite, with an array of cuisines, from Italian at Dondero’s, sushi at Stevenson’s or seafood at Tidepools — you’ll never get bored of the delicious food!
And with multiple stunning beaches just a stone’s throw away, we can’t think of a better place to take the family on vacation this year.
Best for solo travelers
When it comes to solo traveling, affordability and safety are typically the top priorities, and we think the Vive Hotel Waikiki is ideal for those looking to enjoy some alone time.
Situated in Honolulu, and a short walk from shops, bars, restaurants and (most importantly) beaches, this is the perfect place to call home during your vacation if you want to embrace the local culture, meet locals and be in the thick of it.
The hotel is super affordable which is essential when solo traveling, making it ideal for a longer holiday, or just a cheap weekend getaway — and all guests are also entitled to a free daily continental breakfast.
The spacious, modern rooms offer great value for money — and while there is no swimming pool or spa area, being close to the beach and everything the local town has makes up for it.
Best for couples
Fancy treating your special someone to a vacation in paradise? If so, a stay at the Montage Kapalua Bay Hotel could be the perfect choice.
There are tons of amenities and activities for you and your partner to partake in, from a couples massage in the spa to chilling at the pool, to enjoying a nearby hike — the possibilities for your romantic getaway are endless!
When it comes to a romantic trip away, your room is far more than just a place to lay your head — and with these rooms, we think you’ll have no trouble finding the perfect space for some romance with your partner.
There are also two restaurants onsite where you can enjoy a romantic dinner and enjoy a cocktail (or many!) at the in-house bar.
Best for an action-packed stay
Nestled on Waikiki Beach, the Sheraton Waikiki Beach Resort is perfect for those looking to strike the perfect balance between an action-packed and uber-relaxing vacation.
The hotel offers contemporary rooms that provide stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and Diamond Head and are sure to impress everyone who enters. With two oceanfront pools, Helumoa Playground with two freshwater swimming pools, a 70ft water slide, and an adult-only infinity pool, you’ll have plenty of options for lounging around during the day.
Offering activities on and offsite like fishing, diving, hiking and other water sports, your days can be jam-packed with fun, and at night, head to the on-site happy hour, and the nightclub for some late-night dancing.
Or if you want to get involved with the local culture, head to the Honolulu Museum of Art, have a fun family-friendly day at Magic Island, or pay your respects at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific.
Best for value
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly vacation in Hawaii, we recommend taking a look at the Hotel La Croix — located near Waikiki Beach, and in the heart of Honolulu.
The modern, contemporary rooms are the perfect place to call home during your visit to Honolulu, and each room has unobstructed views of the Pacific Ocean, Waikiki city lights, mountains or palm trees.
The hotel might be a budget option, but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do — the hotel has a swimming pool, fitness center, and a bar, so you’re sure to be entertained both night and day.
Have a pet at home you can’t bear to leave? Well, at the Hotel La Croix, you won’t have to! You can take up to two dogs for every trip, and the hotel even provides beds and bowls, making your packing even easier.
Best for luxury
On the flip side, if you’re looking for a more luxurious stay, our top choice would have to be the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai.
Everything about this hotel screams luxury, from the contemporary Hawaiian furniture in the rooms and fancy, private bathrooms, and flat-screen TV to the scenic lounging area by the pool. We don’t think you’ll be disappointed.
Enjoy a spot of golf at the 18-hole course, chill in the saltwater pool, and get away from the kids in the adult-only area. Your stay at the hotel also entitles you access to the private white sandy beach for a relaxing sun-basking day and easy access to snorkeling.
Our verdict: What are the best hotels in Hawaii?
We’re sure no matter what hotel you pick, you’re going to have an absolutely fabulous time in Hawaii.
So whether you opt for a lifelong memory-inducing vacation at the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort, a romantic getaway at the Montage Kapalua Bay, or a budget-friendly trip with friends at the Hotel La Croix, we’re sure you’ll have the trip of a lifetime.
Happy vacationing!
Did you like this article? For more great deals and shopping ideas, find us now on your favorite social networks: Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest!
Prices updated on 02/09/2024. We are not responsible for any changes to the prices mentioned above.
Written by
Phoebe Davenport
A book aficionado, you will always be able to rely on Phoebe Davenport for the best book recommendations. On the weekend, you’ll probably find Phoebe at a bottomless brunch in London, at a museum, or chilling at home with her two cats.
Read more from Smart Shopper
Stay hydrated on the go with the best travel water bottles
By Lauren PascalJan 31, 2024
Looking to up your water intake? It’s time to invest in one of the best travel water bottles to hit your hydration goals.
We tested it
Is the Bellroy Totepack a travel game changer? We put it to the test
By Lauren PascalJan 30, 2024
We take a first-hand look at the classic Bellroy Totepack, where practicality meets style.
The 7 best compression socks for pressure relief
By Afina NajibJan 18, 2024
The best compression socks have just the right amount of support and style, providing the perfect blend of function and fashion.
The best yoga mat for every practice
By Afina NajibJan 17, 2024
Looking for the best yoga mat to enhance your practice? We've compiled a list of top-rated yoga mats that cater to your various needs, be it hot yoga pilates or barre.
The best travel steamers for wrinkle-free clothes on the go
By Lauren PascalJan 15, 2024
Keep your clothes in pristine condition wherever you go with the best travel steamers.