Explore the best accommodations Honolulu has to offer in our ultimate travel guide. Catering to every traveler’s needs, find your ideal stay in paradise.

Aloha, fellow travelers!
Did you know Honolulu is home to the only royal palace in the United States?
As a top travel destination, this vibrant city offers an incredible blend of culture, history, and natural beauty.
When planning your dream vacation to this paradise, we understand that finding the best place to stay in Honolulu is part of the travel experience.
Most luxury resorts, as amazing as they are, are well, expensive and only work for some people’s preferences.
That’s why we made this comprehensive guide to help you find the perfect accommodation for your stay in Honolulu.
We believe personalization is key to a fantastic vacation, and with Rent By Owner, we’re here to help you.
So, join us as we explore stays on the island and city, tailored to suit every traveler’s needs and preferences.
Unveiling Honolulu’s Finest Hotels and Resorts
With a diverse range of accommodation options in Honolulu, travelers can choose from the lap of luxury to a wallet-friendly stay.
For those seeking an indulgent escape, Honolulu’s luxury hotels offer exquisite experiences, exceptional service, and world-class amenities.
These high-end properties often boast prime beachfront locations, award-winning restaurants, and lavish spas.
If you’re looking for something more moderately priced, the city’s mid-range hotels provide a comfortable stay with a balance of quality amenities and reasonable rates.
These accommodations cater to vacationers and business travelers, ensuring a pleasant experience.
Lastly, if you’re traveling on a tight budget, don’t worry – Honolulu has plenty of budget hotels that offer clean, cozy rooms and essential amenities without the hefty price tag.
Prime Hotel Locations
Each neighborhood offers unique experiences and attractions, ensuring you’ll find the perfect fit for your vacation needs.
Waikiki is undoubtedly a popular choice for travelers, thanks to its picturesque beaches, vibrant nightlife, and diverse dining options.
With many hotels and resorts located within walking distance of the iconic Waikiki Beach, you’ll be at the heart of the action while enjoying stunning ocean views.
For a more upscale experience, consider staying in Ala Moana.
This area boasts high-end shopping centers, beautiful parks, and easy access to both the beach and the bustling city. Ala Moana is ideal for those who appreciate a touch of luxury and convenience during their stay.
Lastly, Downtown Honolulu offers a unique blend of urban excitement and rich history.
With its thriving business district, historic landmarks, and cultural attractions, staying in Downtown Honolulu will provide a well-rounded experience of the city’s many facets.
Our Top Hotel And Resort Picks
For a truly luxurious experience, we recommend The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort.
This iconic “Pink Palace of the Pacific” is situated on the pristine shores of Waikiki Beach and offers world-class amenities, including a serene spa, award-winning dining, and exquisite accommodations.
If you’re searching for a mid-range option, the Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort is an excellent choice. This beachfront property features modern guestrooms, an array of dining options, and various on-site activities, ensuring a delightful stay for the entire family.
For budget-conscious travelers, the Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club is a hidden gem in Waikiki, offering stylish rooms and a vibrant atmosphere at an affordable price.
Embracing The Comforts Of Vacation Rentals
Offering a diverse range of options, from houses and apartments to condos, vacation rentals like cottages provide a more personalized and homey experience during your visit to this tropical paradise.
Vacation houses are perfect for families or larger groups, providing ample space, privacy, and amenities like fully-equipped kitchens and private pools.
Apartments are a versatile option, catering to solo travelers, couples, and small families. They often come with well-equipped kitchens and comfortable living spaces, ensuring a cozy stay. If you decide to rent a cottage, then this is for you.
Lastly, condos are a popular choice for those seeking resort-style amenities with the convenience of self-contained accommodations.
These properties typically offer access to shared facilities like pools, fitness centers, and barbecue areas.
Vacation Rental Hotspots
To help you pinpoint the best place to stay in Honolulu for vacation rentals, we’ve highlighted some of our favorite neighborhoods.
Waikiki remains a popular choice for vacation rentals, thanks to its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and countless dining options.
If you’re seeking a beachfront condo or a cozy apartment, you’ll find a variety of options to suit your needs.
For a more local and artsy vibe, consider Kaka’ako. This up-and-coming neighborhood is known for its colorful murals, trendy eateries, and stylish boutiques. Kaka’ako offers a range of vacation rentals, from modern apartments to luxurious condos.
If you prefer a quieter, more residential setting, Manoa is an excellent option. Nestled in a valley, this charming neighborhood boasts beautiful vacation homes, with easy access to popular attractions like Manoa Falls and the University of Hawaii at Manoa.
Expert Tips For Choosing Your Ideal Vacation Rental
To ensure you find the best place to stay in Honolulu for your vacation rental, we’d like to share some practical tips for selecting the perfect home away from home.
By following these guidelines, you’ll be well on your way to a personalized and memorable vacation experience.
First, always check the location of your vacation rental. Consider the proximity to the attractions and activities that interest you most. This will save you time and transportation costs while maximizing your enjoyment of the city.
Next, carefully review the amenities provided by the rental. Ensure it offers everything you need for a comfortable and convenient stay, such as a well-equipped kitchen, reliable Wi-Fi, or laundry facilities.
Lastly, take the time to read guest reviews. These firsthand accounts can provide valuable insights into the overall experience, cleanliness, and service you can expect from the property.

The Charm Of Honolulu B&Bs
Bed and breakfasts are quaint, often family-owned establishments offering a more intimate and personalized experience than larger hotels and resorts.
Bed and breakfasts in Honolulu range from charming historic homes to modern boutique inns, providing an appealing alternative for travelers seeking a unique and cozy stay.
Typically, these accommodations feature limited guest rooms, ensuring attentive service and a welcoming atmosphere.
Along with comfortable rooms and a delicious breakfast, many bed and breakfasts offer insider tips and recommendations for exploring the local area.
The Appeal Of Bed And Breakfast Stays
We want to highlight the unique aspects of bed and breakfast accommodations that set them apart from other lodging options.
The personalized service offered at bed and breakfasts is one of their most appealing features. With fewer guests, innkeepers can dedicate more attention to each visitor, ensuring a warm and hospitable atmosphere. This often translates to tailored recommendations for local attractions, dining, and activities based on your interests.
Additionally, staying at a bed and breakfast allows you to immerse yourself in local experiences. If you don’t mind Oahu’s new B&B law, then you’ll be taking your time to enjoy Honolulu.
From enjoying a home-cooked, island-inspired breakfast to conversing with your hosts and fellow guests, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the local culture and way of life.
Our Handpicked B&B Gems
These selections of charming establishments embody the best qualities of this unique accommodation option, ensuring a memorable experience.
We recommend the Manoa Valley Inn for a peaceful retreat surrounded by lush greenery.
This historic bed and breakfast is nestled in the picturesque Manoa Valley and offers elegantly appointed rooms with antique furnishings, a tranquil outdoor pool, and a delicious daily breakfast featuring local ingredients.
Another delightful option is The Pillows in Paradise, a cozy, intimate bed and breakfast in a quiet residential neighborhood.
Here, you’ll enjoy modern and comfortable rooms, a lush tropical garden, and a warm and welcoming host who goes above and beyond to ensure your stay is exceptional.
Discover Budget-Friendly Hostels
Let’s cover budget-friendly hostels to help you find more of the hottest accommodations in Honolulu.
Hostels in Honolulu cater to a diverse range of travelers, from solo adventurers to groups of friends, providing dormitory-style rooms and private options at a fraction of the cost of traditional hotels.
While hostels are typically known for their budget-friendly rates, they also offer an array of amenities, such as communal kitchens, shared lounges, and organized activities that foster a sense of community among guests.
Additionally, many hostels in Honolulu are conveniently located near popular attractions, making them a practical choice for travelers seeking easy access to the city’s highlights.
Perks Of Hostel Stays
With diverse accommodation options available for your perfect stay in Honolulu, let’s take a moment to discuss the advantages of choosing a hostel.
One of the most significant benefits of staying in a hostel is the budget-friendly aspect. Hostels provide an affordable option for travelers looking to save on accommodation costs without sacrificing comfort and convenience.
Also, hostels are known for their social atmosphere, which encourages interactions between guests and provides ample opportunities to make new friends from around the world. This vibrant environment often leads to sharing travel tips, recommendations, and memorable experiences with fellow adventurers.
Lastly, hostels frequently offer free Wi-Fi, communal kitchens, luggage storage, and tour booking services, ensuring a hassle-free and enjoyable stay.
Top Hostel Picks
These budget-friendly accommodations offer a unique blend of comfort, convenience, and social atmosphere to enhance your Hawaiian adventure.
For those looking to stay steps away from the iconic Waikiki Beach, we recommend The Beach Waikiki Boutique Hostel. This vibrant hostel features modern and clean rooms, both private and dormitory-style, a communal kitchen, and a rooftop terrace with stunning ocean views. It’s an excellent choice for travelers seeking a prime location without breaking the bank.
Another fantastic option is the Polynesian Hostel Beach Club, which boasts an array of amenities, including a cozy lounge area, outdoor barbecue facilities, and organized activities such as surf lessons and island tours. The friendly staff and welcoming environment make it a popular choice among budget-conscious travelers.
Distinctive Stays With Unique And Specialty Lodging
As we continue to guide you, let’s delve into the world of unique and specialty lodging. These accommodations cater to travelers seeking something different, memorable, and tailored to specific interests.
Boutique hotels offer a charming alternative to traditional hotels by providing an intimate and personalized experience. Backpackers can enjoy a variety of family-owned establishments and trendy stays during their vacation.
Often characterized by stylish design, exceptional service, and a focus on local culture, these properties enable guests to enjoy a more authentic and immersive stay in Honolulu.
For those environmentally conscious travelers, eco-friendly accommodations are another fantastic option.
These properties prioritize sustainability and responsible practices, such as energy-efficient designs, locally sourced materials, and reduced waste policies.
By choosing an eco-friendly stay, you’re contributing to preserving Hawaii’s natural beauty. Some of these places are even pet-friendly, so you can bring your furry friend to Honolulu along with you.
Discover The Best Areas For Unique And Specialty Stays In Honolulu
When finding the best place to stay in Honolulu, location matters, especially when searching for unique and specialty lodging.
Waikiki, known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant atmosphere, is popular for boutique hotels and eco-friendly lodgings. Here, you can enjoy a more intimate experience while still being close to iconic attractions and an array of dining and shopping options.
Kaimuki, a neighborhood just east of Waikiki, offers a more local experience with charming, independent accommodations amidst a lively community of shops, restaurants, and coffeehouses.
For those seeking a tranquil retreat, consider the North Shore, where you’ll find specialty lodging options emphasizing Oahu’s natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere.
Top Picks For Exceptional Unique And Specialty Stays In Honolulu
We’ve selected two exceptional, unique, and specialty lodging options for your stay in Honolulu.
These top picks offer excellent amenities and deliver distinctive experiences that set them apart from the rest.
First, The Modern Honolulu is a sleek, sophisticated boutique hotel in Waikiki. This contemporary gem boasts a stunning design, attentive service, and an array of luxurious amenities, such as a world-class spa, gourmet restaurants, and chic poolside bars.
The Modern Honolulu provides a stylish and intimate atmosphere, perfect for those who appreciate attention to detail and exceptional experiences.
Second, for a more secluded and serene experience, consider The Kahala Hotel & Resort. This luxurious property is nestled along a private beachfront, offering a tranquil retreat away from the hustle and bustle of Waikiki. As an eco-friendly resort, The Kahala strongly emphasizes sustainability and preserving the island’s natural beauty.
With its elegant accommodations, award-winning cuisine, and exceptional spa services, The Kahala Hotel & Resort is an idyllic oasis for those seeking a unique and memorable stay in Honolulu.

Wrapping Up Your Honolulu Accommodation Search
As we’ve explored the best places to stay in Honolulu together, we’ve considered various accommodations to suit every traveler’s needs and preferences. We understand how essential it is to find the perfect stay in Honolulu to make your vacation as enjoyable and memorable as possible.
In conclusion, whether you prefer the elegance of luxury hotels or the warmth of a cozy bed and breakfast, the vibrant city of Honolulu offers a wide array of accommodation options to cater to every taste and budget.
Now that you’re well-equipped with our recommendations, we encourage you to delve into the diverse world of Honolulu’s accommodations and embark on an unforgettable Hawaiian adventure.
Embrace the spirit of aloha, and let your journey begin with Rent By Owner!
TLDR
Discover the perfect stay in Honolulu with our extensive travel guide, which features a wide range of accommodation options, from hotels and resorts to vacation rentals, bed and breakfasts, hostels, and unique lodging experiences. Delve into the best areas to stay in Honolulu for each accommodation type, and explore our top picks based on traveler preferences.
Our guide offers practical tips and personalized recommendations, ensuring you find the right fit for your trip, whether seeking luxury, budget-friendly options, or something in between. Make your Honolulu vacation unforgettable with the perfect accommodation tailored to your needs.