Best Honolulu Hotels

There’s almost always a wedding in progress on the lawn of the Moana Surfrider, and with good reason as it is one of the top Honolulu hotels. The Westin property is located smack dab on the most central and happening section of the beach, offering unmatched opportunities for people watching, surf-going, or simply gazing at the deep, blue sea. The “First Lady of Waikiki,” which opened in 1901, remains a classic landmark recognized by its distinct Victorian architecture and turn-of-the-century style—the front veranda is still furnished with white-washed rocking chairs. The hotel has 793 rooms, including 36 luxurious suites with oceanfront lanais, and a full-service spa was added in 2008. We love the pillow-top bedding (a trademark of Westin resorts), which conspires with the soothing lap of the waves to guarantee a restful night’s sleep. The Moana Surfrider is one of the best Honolulu hotels to stay in if you're looking to relax in style. Whatever you do, make time for a sunset cocktail or afternoon tea in the shade of the colossal banyan tree that forms the centerpiece of the resort’s idyllic beachside courtyard.

Disney’s first property in Hawaii, Aulani Disney Resort & Spa immerses guests in Hawaiian culture as it pampers them. Featuring 359 traditional hotel rooms and 481 Vacation Club Villas, the resort, located at Ko Olina on the island of Oahu, was inspired by Hawaiian heritage and tradition, and local architects, artisans and historians helped to incorporate that spirit into Aulani. In true Disney style, Aulani doesn’t skimp on amenities for the whole family: four restaurants, two lounges, an adult spa, a separate teen spa, a fitness center, a kids’ club and a large pool area featuring a private snorkeling lagoon. Adventurous guests can get up close and personal with sea creatures like stingrays, anemones and starfish in Aulani's conservation pool, where marine biologists serve as wildlife guides for small groups. Don't be surprised if you find yourself spoiled for choice--activities for guests include movie nights, fireside storytelling, hula dancing, Hawaiian sunset ceremonies, cooking classes, and surf lessons. Of course, Mickey and company will be around, too, sporting outfits befitting this Hawaiian paradise.

You’d be hard-pressed to find more spectacular views than those from the lavish rooms on the upper floors of the 38-story Trump tower. Taking advantage of the opportunity, the designers installed floor-to-ceiling windows in the rooms, allowing the marvelous panorama to take center stage. Trump made his mark on the island with one of the best Honolulu hotels for breathtakingly beautiful views. The contemporary suites have a comfortable, luxury home feel—they’re equipped with Italian marble bathrooms and granite countertops, superior Wolf and Sub-Zero kitchen appliances, 42-inch high-definition, flat-screen televisions, and iPod docking stations. Another plus is the complimentary wireless Internet that is available throughout the hotel.

The New Otani Kaimana Beach Hotel is located across the street from Kapiolani Park on the east end of Waikiki, directly on one of the south shore’s loveliest stretches of beach. The rooms are immaculate, brightly decorated and outfitted with free WiFi, but the main reason to stay here is for the fabulous ocean views. Swimmers are fond of the gentle, emerald waters that front the hotel, and it’s common to see paddlers from the Outrigger Canoe Club next door paddling their one-man canoes along the horizon. A modest street-level mall offers convenient services, including a travel agency, two salons, and a fashionable swimwear shop.

Polo has a rich history in Hawaii and the Equus is the perfect place to tap into that experience. Before Aqua Resorts acquired the property, this hotel was known as the Hawaii Polo Inn and although it has come under new ownership, the equestrian theme is still strong with unique offerings like guided horseback rides and complimentary polo tickets during polo season. Ralph Lauren fans will appreciate the sophisticated country décor. It’s close to the beach and Ala Moana Shopping Center, a most convenient choice for business travelers who are attending conferences at the Hawaii Convention Center two blocks away. There’s also a swimming pool and free in-room Internet access.