20 Best Hotels in Hawaii: Travel Editor’s Ultimate Picks

Last updated on October 5th, 2025

Whether it’s the dramatic cliffs of Kauai or the golden shores of Waikiki, Hawaii offers some of the world’s most spectacular luxury accommodations. Whether you seek beachfront bliss, lush mountain retreats, or urban sophistication, these best hotels in Hawaii combine aloha spirit with world-class service. Our curated selection showcases properties that define paradise across the islands.

Here are the best hotels in Hawaii for an unforgettable island getaway.

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Why Stay at Hawaii’s Luxury Hotels?

Hawaii’s finest hotels offer:
🏨 Private beach access with sunset views
🍽️ Farm-to-table dining featuring local ingredients
🚤 Cultural experiences like hula lessons and ukulele classes
💆 World-class spas with traditional lomilomi massages
🌆 Prime locations near volcanoes, waterfalls, and marine sanctuaries

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Best Hotels in Hawaii

1. Four Seasons Resort Lanai

The exclusive Four Seasons Resort Lanai occupies a private island paradise with three pristine beaches. My sunrise golf at the Jack Nicklaus-designed Manele Golf Course was unforgettable. The Nobu Lanai restaurant and cliffside spa make this one of the best hotels in Hawaii for secluded luxury.

• Island: Lanai
• Highlights: Private island setting, championship golf, Nobu dining
• Perfect for: Honeymooners and privacy seekers

2. Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina

The Four Seasons Resort Oahu blends Hawaiian tradition with contemporary luxury. My morning paddleboard session in the tranquil Ko Olina lagoons was magical, followed by an afternoon at the adults-only serenity pool. The Hawaiian cultural programs make this one of the best hotels in Hawaii for authentic experiences.

• Island: Oahu
• Highlights: Protected lagoons, ESPA spa, sunset hula shows
• Perfect for: Families and culture enthusiasts

3. Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa

The Grand Hyatt Kauai is a tropical paradise with Hawaii’s most spectacular pool complex. My morning swim through the saltwater lagoon system, complete with waterfalls and hidden grottos, was unforgettable. The Anara Spa’s outdoor treatment huts make this one of the best hotels in Hawaii for relaxation.

• Island: Kauai
• Highlights: 1.5-acre pool complex, lava rock spa, golf course
• Perfect for: Families and water lovers

4. ESPACIO The Jewel of Waikiki

Ultra-exclusive ESPACIO Waikiki offers just nine lavish suites with private elevators. My sunset champagne toast on the penthouse terrace overlooking Diamond Head was unforgettable. The personal butler service makes this one of the best hotels in Hawaii for VIP treatment.

• Island: Oahu
• Highlights: Rooftop infinity pool, in-suite spa treatments, Michelin-level dining
• Perfect for: Luxury seekers and special occasions

5. Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort

The legendary Grand Wailea features Maui’s most spectacular water features, including a 2,000-foot-long lazy river. My afternoon spent sliding down the water elevator was pure joy. The 50,000-square-foot spa makes this one of the best hotels in Hawaii for aquatic adventures.

• Island: Maui
• Highlights: Canyon Activity Pool, Botero sculptures, HUMUHUMU restaurant
• Perfect for: Families and art lovers

6. The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua

Perched above D.T. Fleming Beach, the Ritz-Carlton Maui offers breathtaking sunset views. My morning snorkel at Kapalua Bay revealed sea turtles grazing on coral. The Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment program makes this one of the best hotels in Hawaii for eco-conscious travelers.

• Island: Maui
• Highlights: Cliffside spa, Hawaiian cultural center, three-tiered pool
• Perfect for: Nature lovers and golfers

7. Ho’olei at Grand Wailea

These luxurious villas at Ho’olei offer residential-style living with resort amenities. My private chef-prepared dinner on the lanai overlooking the ocean was unforgettable. The full kitchens and private pools make this one of the best hotels in Hawaii for extended stays.

• Island: Maui
• Highlights: Private pools, gourmet kitchens, Grand Wailea amenities
• Perfect for: Groups and multi-generational families

8. 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay

Sustainability meets luxury at 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay. My sunrise yoga session overlooking the iconic bay was transformative. The farm-to-table dining and nature-inspired design make this one of the best hotels in Hawaii for eco-luxury.

• Island: Kauai
• Highlights: Oceanfront spa, farm tours, sustainable design
• Perfect for: Wellness travelers and nature enthusiasts

9. Holualoa Inn

This charming B&B at Holualoa Inn offers authentic Hawaiian hospitality. My morning coffee on the lanai overlooking Kona coffee fields was pure bliss. The intimate setting makes this one of the best hotels in Hawaii for romantic getaways.

• Island: Big Island
• Highlights: Working coffee farm, panoramic ocean views, gourmet breakfast
• Perfect for: Couples and culture seekers

10. Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection

The newly renovated Mauna Lani blends modern luxury with Hawaiian heritage. My sunset canoe tour to ancient fishponds was educational and breathtaking. The CanoeHouse restaurant makes this one of the best hotels in Hawaii for culinary excellence.

• Island: Big Island
• Highlights: Historic fishponds, black sand beach, cultural tours
• Perfect for: History buffs and foodies

11. Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort, by Hyatt

Contemporary Hawaiian design shines at Andaz Maui. My mixology class at the Lehua Lounge crafted the perfect mai tai. The cascading infinity pools make this one of the best hotels in Hawaii for Instagram-worthy moments.

• Island: Maui
• Highlights: Wailea Beach access, farm-to-table dining, cultural workshops
• Perfect for: Young couples and design lovers

12. Fairmont Orchid – Hawaii

The Fairmont Orchid boasts one of Hawaii’s best lagoons for snorkeling. My morning swim with tropical fish just steps from the room was unforgettable. The Hawaiian luau makes this one of the best hotels in Hawaii for cultural immersion.

• Island: Big Island
• Highlights: Pauoa Bay, spa without walls, golf course
• Perfect for: Snorkelers and golfers

13. Hotel Wailea

This adults-only sanctuary at Hotel Wailea offers romantic treehouse dining. My private cabana dinner under the stars was magical. The intimate scale makes this one of the best hotels in Hawaii for honeymooners.

• Island: Maui
• Highlights: Relais & Châteaux property, ocean view yoga, mixology classes
• Perfect for: Couples and relaxation seekers

14. The Lodge at Kukuiʻula

These residential-style cottages at The Lodge at Kukuiʻula feature private lanais and gourmet kitchens. My sunset cocktail at the cliffside infinity pool was unforgettable. The farm and fishing excursions make this one of the best hotels in Hawaii for active travelers.

• Island: Kauai
• Highlights: Private club amenities, Tom Weiskopf golf course, farm tours
• Perfect for: Extended stays and foodies

15. Timbers Kauaʻi – Ocean Club & Residences

These oceanfront residences at Timbers Kauaʻi offer residential luxury. My morning coffee watching whales breach offshore was unforgettable. The private golf course and beach club make this one of the best hotels in Hawaii for luxury living.

• Island: Kauai
• Highlights: Hokuala Golf Course, private beach club, residential amenities
• Perfect for: Extended stays and golf enthusiasts

16. Fairmont Kea Lani – Maui

Hawaii’s only all-suite and villa luxury resort, Fairmont Kea Lani offers spacious accommodations. My outrigger canoe adventure from Polo Beach was exhilarating. The white sand beach makes this one of the best hotels in Hawaii for water sports.

• Island: Maui
• Highlights: All-suite accommodations, three pools, Hawaiian cultural center
• Perfect for: Families and suite lovers

17. Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa

Disney magic meets Hawaiian culture at Aulani. My kids loved the lazy river and Mickey-shaped shave ice. The kids’ club and character breakfasts make this one of the best hotels in Hawaii for families.

• Island: Oahu
• Highlights: Waikolohe Valley pool complex, Rainbow Reef snorkeling, Auntie’s Beach House
• Perfect for: Families with young children

18. Prince Waikiki

With the best harbor views in Waikiki, Prince Waikiki offers a sophisticated urban retreat. My sunset sushi dinner at 100 Sails Restaurant was unforgettable. The infinity pool makes this one of the best hotels in Hawaii for city-meets-ocean luxury.

• Island: Oahu
• Highlights: Harborfront location, Japanese-style spa, golf privileges
• Perfect for: Business travelers and urban explorers

19. Marriott’s Kauai Lagoons – Kalanipu’u

These spacious villas at Marriott’s Kauai Lagoons offer full kitchens and ocean views. My morning coffee watching the sunrise over the Jack Nicklaus golf course was peaceful. The residential amenities make this one of the best hotels in Hawaii for extended stays.

• Island: Kauai
• Highlights: Full kitchens, golf course views, lagoon-style pools
• Perfect for: Families and golfers

20. Koʻa Kea Resort on Poipu Beach

This intimate beachfront property at Koʻa Kea Resort offers direct access to Poipu Beach. My snorkeling session with Hawaiian green sea turtles was magical. The oceanfront dining makes this one of the best hotels in Hawaii for romantic getaways.

• Island: Kauai
• Highlights: Beachfront location, Red Salt restaurant, Hawaiian spa treatments
• Perfect for: Couples and beach lovers

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FAQs About The Best Hotels in Hawaii

Final Tips for Booking

– Resort fees can add $50+ per day – check inclusions
– Rental cars are essential on Maui and Big Island
– Book luaus and spa treatments well in advance
– Consider island-hopping to experience different landscapes

Whether you choose a historic beachfront resort or a modern eco-retreat, the best hotels in Hawaii promise unforgettable aloha spirit amidst paradise landscapes. From sunrise over Haleakalā to sunset at Waikiki, these properties offer the perfect base for your island adventure.