Hawaii is the 50th and most recent state to join the United States, situated in the central Pacific Ocean. An archipelago of 137 islands and atolls, Hawaii is renowned for its dramatic volcanic landscapes, pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and rich Polynesian culture. The eight main islands — Oahu, Maui, Hawaii (Big Island), Kauai, Molokai, Lanai, Niihau, and Kahoolawe — each offer a distinct personality and experience.
Accommodation overview
Hotels by budget
Find accommodation that fits your travel budget.
Budget-friendly (under $50/night)
Hostelling International Honolulu
The most reputable budget accommodation in Honolulu, located in the Manoa neighborhood near the University of Hawaii. Clean dormitory and private rooms, communal kitchen, and friendly staff. A great base for budget travelers exploring Oahu.
Aqua Palms Waikiki
A budget-friendly hotel just a short walk from Waikiki Beach and Ala Moana Center, offering 68 clean, simple rooms with kitchenette units available. A solid value option for travelers who want to be close to Waikiki without the luxury price tag.
Laniakea Hostel
A popular hostel in the heart of Waikiki offering clean dormitories and private rooms. The social atmosphere and central location make it ideal for solo travelers and backpackers looking to explore Oahu on a tight budget.
Seaside Hotel Honolulu
A no-frills budget hotel located just two blocks from Waikiki Beach. Simple, clean rooms with air conditioning at a fraction of the cost of beachfront properties. Good for travelers prioritizing location over amenities.
Polynesian Hostel Beach Club
A popular budget hostel known for its social vibe and proximity to Waikiki Beach. Offers weekly barbecues, surf lesson discounts, and organized beach activities. Ideal for young backpackers and surfers.
Aloha Surf Hostel
A surf-themed hostel in Waikiki catering to surfers and beach lovers. Offers affordable dorm beds, surf board storage, and a lively common area. Staff can help book surf lessons, tours, and inter-island flights.
North Shore Hostel Haleiwa
The best base for experiencing Oahu's legendary North Shore surf scene without Waikiki crowds. This casual hostel is close to world-famous surf breaks like Pipeline, Sunset Beach, and Banzai Pipeline, and the charming town of Haleiwa.
Maui Seaside Hotel
A practical, clean budget hotel located in central Kahului near the airport. Good for budget travelers who want a central Maui base without resort prices, with easy access to all parts of the island by car.
Mid-range ($50-150/night)
Comfortable hotels
Mid-range hotels offer good value with private rooms, reliable amenities, and often include breakfast. Popular with business travelers and tourists alike.
Luxury ($150+/night)
Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea
Set on 15 acres of oceanfront in Wailea, the Four Seasons Maui is consistently rated the finest resort in Hawaii. Three pools, three restaurants, a world-class spa, and 383 elegantly appointed rooms and suites define this legendary property.
Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa
Situated on Poipu Beach, this stunning resort features a 50-acre property with a saltwater lagoon, fantasy pool complex, and Anara Spa. The resort blends authentic Hawaiian culture with world-class luxury.
Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
Perched on cliffs overlooking the Pacific on the northwest coast of Maui, the Ritz-Carlton Kapalua offers 463 luxurious rooms and suites with panoramic ocean views. A premier whale watching location December through April.
Four Seasons Resort Hualalai
Nestled between ancient lava fields and the Pacific Ocean on the Big Island's Kohala Coast, Four Seasons Hualalai offers bungalow-style accommodations and the King's Pond, a natural lava rock pool filled with tropical fish and rays.
Halekulani Hotel
A Waikiki Beach institution since 1917, the Halekulani — meaning 'House Befitting Heaven' in Hawaiian — offers 453 rooms and suites with ocean or garden views. La Mer restaurant is one of Hawaii's finest dining experiences.
Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort
A sophisticated beachfront resort in Wailea featuring a dramatic multi-tiered pool system with an 80-foot waterslide, 297 guest rooms, and world-class dining from celebrity chef Michael Schlow. The artistic, modern design incorporates Hawaiian cultural elements throughout.
Montage Kapalua Bay
An ultra-luxury all-suite resort perched above Kapalua Bay, offering 24 stunning villa-style residences and 50 resort suites. The intimate property has a private beach, one of Maui's best restaurants, and exclusive access to Kapalua's amenities.
Best neighborhoods to stay
Choose your base based on your interests and travel style.
City Center
The heart of Hawaii with easy access to main attractions, restaurants, and transportation.
Best for: First-time visitors, short stays
Old Town
Traditional architecture and local character. Walking distance to historical sites and authentic dining.
Best for: Culture enthusiasts, photographers
Our top picks
Handpicked recommendations for every type of traveler.
Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea
Set on 15 acres of oceanfront in Wailea, the Four Seasons Maui is consistently rated the finest resort in Hawaii. Three pools, three restaurants, a world-class spa, and 383 elegantly appointed rooms and suites define this legendary property.
Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa
Situated on Poipu Beach, this stunning resort features a 50-acre property with a saltwater lagoon, fantasy pool complex, and Anara Spa. The resort blends authentic Hawaiian culture with world-class luxury.
Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
Perched on cliffs overlooking the Pacific on the northwest coast of Maui, the Ritz-Carlton Kapalua offers 463 luxurious rooms and suites with panoramic ocean views. A premier whale watching location December through April.
Four Seasons Resort Hualalai
Nestled between ancient lava fields and the Pacific Ocean on the Big Island's Kohala Coast, Four Seasons Hualalai offers bungalow-style accommodations and the King's Pond, a natural lava rock pool filled with tropical fish and rays.
Halekulani Hotel
A Waikiki Beach institution since 1917, the Halekulani — meaning 'House Befitting Heaven' in Hawaiian — offers 453 rooms and suites with ocean or garden views. La Mer restaurant is one of Hawaii's finest dining experiences.
Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort
A sophisticated beachfront resort in Wailea featuring a dramatic multi-tiered pool system with an 80-foot waterslide, 297 guest rooms, and world-class dining from celebrity chef Michael Schlow. The artistic, modern design incorporates Hawaiian cultural elements throughout.
Booking tips
Get the best deals and avoid common mistakes.
Book 2-4 weeks in advance for better rates and availability, especially during peak tourist season.
Check multiple booking platforms — direct hotel bookings sometimes offer better rates or perks.
Read recent reviews carefully — conditions can change. Pay attention to comments about cleanliness and Wi-Fi.
Confirm your booking directly with the hotel before arrival, especially for smaller properties.
Ask about airport transfers — many hotels offer pickup services that can save hassle on arrival.
Alternative accommodations
Beyond traditional hotels, consider these options.
Guesthouses
Family-run guesthouses offer authentic local experiences and often include home-cooked meals. Great for cultural immersion.
Serviced apartments
Ideal for longer stays or families. Kitchen facilities help save money and provide flexibility.
Hostels
Budget-friendly option for solo travelers. Dorms and private rooms available with social common areas.