Top Recommendations for Where to Stay in Hawaii 2024

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by Albert

How to Book Cheap Hotels? You Should Watch This!

Discover Different Parts of “The Big Island” and Find out Which One Suits Your Travel

Hawaii Island is known by locals as “Big Island” – not Oahu, where the capital, Honolulu is located. Potential confusion out of the way, it’s time to plan a visit, deciding where to stay in Hawaii. Discover what each area has in store, helping your decision-making on where to stay in Hawaii.

The island has accommodations ranging from budget to luxury, adventure travel, family options, and all the Hawaiian beauty one would expect. Yet, less visited, it will surprise you with moments of quiet and calm, maybe even feeling you have the entire beach for yourself.

Hawaii is roughly divided in to west and east side, each with its advantages and disadvantages, as well as different access to local attractions.

Surfing Board in Hawaii

source: tatonomusic/ unsplash

Adventurous travelers may way to head south to discover South Point, the most southern point of the United States. It’s a must-see sight on the way to Papakolea green beach, guarded by mineral olivine rather than sand.

But where to stay in Hawaii? The answer is multiple. Discover the areas and properties in this list to make an informed decision.

Where to stay in Hawaii for family: The Gold Coast (Kohala Coast)

Maui Scenery

source: Ethan Robertson/ unsplash

Known as the most attractive part of the Hawaiian island, the Gold Coast has beautiful beaches and comfortable resorts – making it the perfect destination for traveling with families with different traveling preferences.

Mauna Lani and Pau`oa Beaches, with calm waters, make great options for families with young children. Meanwhile, Waikoloa Village and Anaeho`omalu Bay – although also calm-water beaches - have coarse sand.

If you don’t mind a bit of ruggedness, look no further than at Waialea, Hapuna, and Kauna Kauna`oa/Mauna Kea Beaches, the most beautiful on the Gold Coast, also home to great resorts.

Royal Sea Cliff Kona by Outrigger>>
Royal Sea Cliff Kona by Outrigger

Modernist in design, this resort is located within 7 acres of oceanfront vegetation. Conveniently placed on the Kona Coast, it allows for magnificent views.

The rooms are comfortable, with fully set kitchens, balconies, free Wi-Fi, and a washing machine and dryer. It also provides free parking.

On the entertainment front, guests can expect live music, lots of hula-dancing, and other Kona heritage rituals, presented with local food. The hotel’s pool with a sun terrace makes for a great after-beach relaxation option.

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai>>
Four Seasons Resort Hualalai

If you’re wondering where to stay in Hawaii, although definitely set on a high-end stay, this luxurious resort has everything a traveler can expect from a destination – and a bit more. It offers 7 swimming areas with ocean views, along with an 18-hole state-of-the-art golf course.

Guests can also enjoy a private sandy beach and a saltwater pool within the hotel.

This hotel's rooms - modern with Hawaiian decor touches, offer free toiletries and desks.

Outrigger Kona Resort and Spa>>
Outrigger Kona Resort and Spa

Situated at Keauhou Bay, this Kailua Kona hotel embodies local luxury, offering all sorts of activities and spa and relaxation options for guests – a sound choice for those searching for where to stay in Hawaii.

Tropical landscaping throughout encases the pool, while guests can enjoy the gym, or a massage in the full-service spa.

Volleyball and tennis are also on offer, while one of the local products – coffee – has an important place for degustation.

Whether for a pizza or more refined fresh seafood, the hotel’s restaurants cater for different styles of tourists.

Where to stay in Hawaii for couples: Kailua-Kona Town and the Kona / Kohala Coasts

Kailua-Kona town, Kona Coast, and the Kohala Coast make up the western side of Hawaii. At Kailua-Kona, travelers deciding on where to stay in Hawaii should know they will get the most urban experience in the island, with less rugged facilities, great resorts, comfortable accommodations, and easiest access to attractions.

Pu’ukohola Heiau historic site — a great visit to learn about Hawaii history and culture, is located 35 miles (56 km) north of Kailua-Kona. Waikoloa Petroglyph Field has petroglyphs from the 16th century in exhibition, and is located at only 30 minutes.

And if Kona rings a bell, you may be a coffee lover, which means the coffee tourism option should be in your lost. Kona Mountain Coffee has a great center for visitors.

Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel>>
Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel

Right by the ocean with an outstanding view, this hotel has comfortable rooms with flat-screen TV and balconies. It also offers in-site entertainment, such as luaus and small concerts. The rooms are modern in design with beach and nature-influenced themes, and come with coffee machines, fridges, and other amenities.

A sound choice if you’re planning on where to stay in Hawaii. 1-minute by foot from the Atlantis Adventures Kona, the hotel also offers a restaurant, a poolside bar, and a tour desk, making it easy for guests to choose and book their activities.

Wyndham Kona Hawaiian Resort>>
Wyndham Kona Hawaiian Resort

A true gem, and a characterful choice for those wondering where to stay in Hawaii. Designed to look like an 1880s Hawaiian village, the Wyndham Kona Hawaiian Resort has thatch roofs and bungalows with rustic looks, as well as a lush garden of fruits, flowers and local vegetation. Guests will also enjoy this property’s proximity to Kailua-Kona Village, and the area’s bustling night scene.

Where to Stay in Hawaii on a budget: Hilo and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Hilo is the Hawaiian state’s second-largest city, with a population of about 40,000 fixed residents. While travelers may experience a higher rain rate than at other parts of the island, this area has more options in affordable accommodations, and provides easy access to many of the interesting activities available on the island – ideal for active travelers.

Hilo makes a great base if you want to visit the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, the dormant Mauna Kea volcano, and the stunning Hamakua Coast, one of the most scenic views on the entire island.

Castle Hilo Hawaiian Hotel>>
Castle Hilo Hawaiian Hotel

A calm haven in Hilo Bay with overwhelmingly beautiful views of Mauna Kea Peak, the Castle Hilo Hotel is minutes from town in Hilo. Accommodations are spacious and modern. It’s a perfect hub for travelers seeking activities nearby, including golf. For those wanting to enjoy the scenery, walks through Liliukalani Garden are a must, as is a visit to Onekahakaha Beach.

The hotel also comes with its own gift shop, and a swimming pool for guests, while those interested in local cuisine will enjoy the hotel’s restaurant and drinks lounge.

Wild Ginger Hotel>>
Wild Ginger Hotel

How is this for character, if you’re wondering where to stay in Hawaii? This property was converted into an inn in the 1930s, having been a housing complex built for plantation workers in 1909. The highly-rated Wild Ginger Hotel offers free parking and Wi-Fi, while its rooms come with cable TV, a microwave, and fridges – ideal for those seeking an economic alternative to daily restaurant meals. The hotel also offers continental breakfast daily.

While the hotel is centrally located, visitors will enjoy the access to Coconut Island, only 2 miles (3.2 km) away, or Kaumana Caves – a 10-minute drive from the property.

Aarons Cottage>>
Aarons Cottage

Aaron’s cottage is located 3,5 miles (5.6 km) from the Pacific Tsunami Museum. The property, straightforward and suitable for budget travelers seeking where to stay in Hawaii, offers private parking and continental breakfast, air conditioning in the rooms, and flat-screen TVs, as well as free toiletries. For those seeking to prepare their own meals, the hotel has a shared kitchen.

FAQs about Where to Stay in Hawaii

  • Where to stay in Hawaii if you’re traveling as a family?

    The Gold Coast has beautiful beaches and comfortable resorts – making it the perfect destination for traveling with families with different traveling preferences.


  • Where to stay in Hawaii if you’re traveling as a couple?

    Kailua-Kona has both urban and resort options – ideal for couples to enjoy a romantic and active stay.


  • Where to stay in Hawaii if you’re traveling on a budget?

    Hilo area is ideal. While travelers may experience a higher rain rate than at other parts of the island, this area has more options in affordable accommodations and provides easy access to many of the interesting activities available on the island.


  • Where to stay in Hawaii if you’re traveling as a family?
    The Gold Coast has beautiful beaches and comfortable resorts – making it the perfect destination for traveling with families with different traveling preferences.


  • Where to stay in Hawaii if you’re traveling as a couple?
    Kailua-Kona has both urban and resort options – ideal for couples to enjoy a romantic and active stay.


  • Where to stay in Hawaii if you’re traveling on a budget?
    Hilo area is ideal. While travelers may experience a higher rain rate than at other parts of the island, this area has more options in affordable accommodations and provides easy access to many of the interesting activities available on the island.



Finally, Big Island Hawaii has options for all sorts of travelers. Choose your spot and discover every facet of this place.

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Find Where to Stay in Hawaii

5 star

4.1/5Very Good122 Reviews
Waikiki Honolulu|5.09km from city center
This hotel is great. We stayed here on this island for five days. We chose this hotel on the last day. He can see the sea. Ms. Feng, the room is clean and hygienic, and the bedding is very good. We are very satisfied with our stay here , You can also open the night view at night, which is very convenient. You must stay here next time you come.
From$327
4.5/5Excellent119 Reviews
Waikiki Honolulu|4.5km from city center
I stayed at many hotels, but the Royal Hawaiian was the best among them. The room was not large, but it was good with a classical and solid feeling. The bed was fluffy and comfortable, and I enjoyed it in my room. The staff are also very friendly and helpful. I checked in quite early because I was moving from another hotel, but the room was available and I was allowed to enter. I enjoyed the banana muffin service and free yoga lessons. If I had to say, there was no bathtub and slippers, and the amenities were different depending on the day. But I definitely want to stay again.
From$405
4.7/5Outstanding51 Reviews
Waikiki Honolulu|3.95km from city center
The Ritz Carlton Waikiki delivers a true 5-star experience. From the minute you arrive to when you leave you are greeted by name whether in person or on the phone. Our special requests were either met or exceeded. The room was super-clean and well stocked with more than enough towels, robes and slippers, coffee and tea. Requests for more hangers, a bucket of ice or anything else were taken care of without delay. The bed was super-comfortable, as good as any I’ve experienced in a hotel. The staff were, without exception, professional, courteous and super-friendly at all times. We didn’t eat in any of the restaurants but the Dean and DeLuca store was a good source of pastries and coffee to bring back to the room. The view we had was ocean and, it’s worth noting, sitting on the lanai was a bit noisy, this is a very urban and busy location so the upside is it’s close to shopping. The adult pool fills up quickly so it’s worth getting there before the sun comes round. The very pretty beach is an easy 10 minute walk and the hotel provides beach towels and water at no charge. Chairs and umbrellas are easily rented on the beach. As there is a small kitchen we stocked up on a few snack and drink items. Do yourselves a favor, stay out of the over-priced ABC’s and head to the Waikiki Market the inventory and prices are way better. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend the Ritz Carlton and look forward to staying at the next one, maybe Maui?
From$685
4.5/5Excellent107 Reviews
Kahala Honolulu|9.58km from city center
The most satisfying hotel during the whole trip is indeed a five-star hotel. Although it is a little distance from wakiki, the hotel has everything, and I don't need to go elsewhere. Several of the hotel's own restaurants are unique and the food is delicious. There are many Japanese, and there are basically no Chinese. The driver who took us to the hotel said that the location of the hotel belongs to the rich area, and they also praised the hotel's reputation. The room itself is very large. Opening the window is the hotel's own golf course. I will stay there next time.
From$625
4.7/5Outstanding133 Reviews
Waikiki Honolulu|4.1km from city center
The location of the hotel is not on the main street, but it is also very close to the sea, just across the road. The lady at the front desk is very friendly, but the check-in time is after 4:00 p.m. We had to wait five or six hours for our early flight, which made me a little irritable. Most hotels in Hawaii check in at this point, and there will be a lot of people, so it is better to choose a flight to arrive at night, so you can check in directly and avoid the rush hour. The hotel is old and the facilities are very old, but it is clean. The room is very big, and it is a bit uncomfortable to fly from Japan. There is an infinity pool on the 6th floor of the hotel. It is not very big, but it is not bad. Next time I come back, I should choose a few new hotels on the main street. Oh yes, there will be fireworks on Friday night, remember to watch it~
From$403

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Business travel

4.1/5Very Good302 Reviews
Waikiki Honolulu|3.48km from city center
This's my first time booking through ”trip” app. I glad i did. Our room is corner views where we got both the view from diamond head and oceanfront. This's the best experience i have. We arrived at the hotel on a Friday night around 7pm Hawaii time. Didn't expect they were doing fireworks around 8pm. I got to see it right from my window view. Omg.....i was breaking in tears where i haven't experience of fireworks this close before. I wish they allow video reviews in here where i can share my recording of the fireworks to you all. My daily views from my room are the best everyday and night throughout our stay. We walked around the beaches, restaurants and stores around the hotel area everynight before bed. Anyway, thank you for the awesome experience and memories. Love it so much and totally recommend.
From$339
4.3/5Excellent49 Reviews
Waikiki Honolulu|4.71km from city center
Don’t book a room cheaply! *Environmental location, next to Wakiki Beach and on the main road, it is very convenient to be connected in all directions. Convenience stores and restaurants, trolly stations, public beaches, and zoos are all very close and within walking distance. *Room facilities, the hotel has a history of a hundred years, so it is very stylish, but the city view room in the Diamond Building is so bad! ! ! ! Not as good as the new 3 star hotel rooms. (Pictured below are the benefits of room upgrade with the Marriott Platinum Card. I booked the cheapest room, but it turned out that booking through a third party did not provide any membership benefits. In the Maui fire, the hotel was full, and I wanted to upgrade temporarily but there was no room). The room is old, with an area of ​​less than 20 square meters. Morning and night, I am woken up either by cars on the road or by the phone in the next room. A very bad experience! * Service, remind the guests to check the bill carefully. After staying for 5 nights, the wrong bill was charged on 4 days. They checked it out one by one when they checked out, and the wrong money was refunded after 4 days. In short, don't try to be cheap when booking a room. The small and shabby room type is not as good as staying in Hyatt or Marriott. The price/performance ratio is too low!
From$352
3.7/5113 Reviews
Waikiki Honolulu|5.15km from city center
It is very convenient to go to the beach, just a few minutes walk away from the net red Kamemaru noodles. The parking fee is more expensive, it costs 39 dollars/night, you can find other parking lots to save costs.
From$217
4.4/5Excellent228 Reviews
Waikiki Honolulu|4.34km from city center
It is newly decorated in a Japanese style. The fixed seaside view is that the beach is not a full sea view. Most of the Japanese customers also have exclusive services. It is friendly to children. There are children's pools and water play facilities, and there is also an infinity pool with an adult bar. It is great not to disturb each other. There is a Lawson convenience store, an ice cream shop, etc. just below, with complete facilities, it is worth living in!
From$439
4.1/5Very Good102 Reviews
Waikiki Honolulu|4.64km from city center
Spent July 3, 2022-July 5, 2022, we are Kama 'aina's and did not feel the hotel extended any kind of extra Aloha for us locals. Also, very upset when I pre-booked the reservation through a 3rd party and as well paid in full, and on confirmation sheet states that room and everything else PAID ALREADY, WHEN CHECKING IN THERE WILL ONLY BE A BALANCE OF $46 IN TAXES. Well, when I checked in I was told that I would still need to pay $45 a day for the resort fees daily which totalled $85 I still would owe. Parking, I was told by the Front Desk would be $50 a night ( insane )!
From$169

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Breakfast

4.2/5Very Good117 Reviews
Waikiki Honolulu|5.02km from city center
This location is the best. 1 block from the beach, within walking distance to anything you want in Waikiki. The lobby is an open, grand lobby. Hotel employees are extremely friendly and helpful. I was very concerned about the hotel when I got off the elevator on the 14th floor. The hallways are dated and uninviting. However, upon entering the room I was pleasantly surprised. The room was clean, plenty spacious for a solo traveler (and would be acceptable for 2 travelers), and had a great view of the ocean. The continental breakfast offered fruit, pastries, boiled eggs, cereal, toast, and waffles. The best part of the stay was Leo at the bell desk. He was extremely friendly, and provided excellent service (he even noticed that I dropped my apple watch cover and held it for me until my return later that day). Be sure to get to know Leo, and don't forget to tip your service providers!
From$190
3.6/5126 Reviews
Western Honolulu Honolulu|5.21km from city center
I’m only here for the night, 10 mins from the airport and they have an awesome shuttle driver, Lani. Off the plane and in a shuttle within minutes. It’s old school Hawaii motel, the pool looks great (closed when I got here) and the staff are amazing. Perfect for that sleep you need before the next flight.
From$155
4.3/5Excellent88 Reviews
Waikiki Honolulu|3.15km from city center
This is my daughter(5) and my favorite staycation spot for the last few years. The pool is wonderful, very relaxing and fun. The location is great for those who want to shop and dine at the Ala Moana Center. As we live on Oahu, Waikiki can be a bit too busy so if you are those who want to stay off of Waikiki, this is great as it’s at the edge of Waikiki, right by Ala Moana! We also enjoyed the free lei making with friends we made at the pool too.
From$248
4.1/5Very Good159 Reviews
Waikiki Honolulu|4.71km from city center
The hotel is in the center of Waikiki. A lot of shops and restaurants are nearby.I The beaches are 100 meters away. The famous hotels Moana Surfrider and Hyatt Regency are across the street. Royal Waikiki Center is a beautiful mall nearby. There are a lot of luxury retail stores and restaurants in the mall.
SOLD OUT
4.3/5Excellent123 Reviews
Waikiki Honolulu|4.13km from city center
So....got a great rate on Travelzoo voucher for 4 nights. This hotel has been remodeled and is still in process of completing some work in common areas. Starbucks opened when I was there, and Monkeypod will open in the future. Staff was fabulous! No complaints there. I was able to check in early and got a partial ocean view on floor 11. Room was spotless. My only complaint, and it's a big one for me, is the soundproofing. I should say lack of it! Doors are HEAVY and each open and shut on the floor nearby is a shock to the sleeper. Also, the wind whistled and the band and traffic comes right in through slider to balcony. The band stops at 9, so that was no problem, and very nice. But....I hated the door slams and other interior noises. If you are a light sleeper, I don't think you will enjoy yourself. I wore ear plugs. Location is superb! It really can't be beat. Pool is OK. The jacuzzi was kind of icky. One being closed the entire time, the other kind of grey and the one attached to the pool generally full of kids. No jacuzzi for me. Towels and loungers were readily available. No problems there. We did have a problem at restaurant/ bar with what we think was bad turkey or mayo on a club. My grandson and I got sick within a couple hours. Unfortunately for the maintenance staff there was some cleaning up to do in the bathroom. The staff responded immediately and were so nice about it. I cannot thank them enough. However, when I reported this to the restaurant manager in the morning I was not totally happy with his response. All in all, I would stay there again for what I paid for it.
From$369

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Where to stay in Hawaii