11 Best 5 Star Hotels in Honolulu

As the tourism hub of Oahu, you can expect nothing but the best from Honolulu. Home to the world-famous Waikiki Beach, countless travelers visit Honolulu every year to explore its pristine beaches, local eateries, touristy shops, shopping malls, and of course, high-rise hotels. And if you enjoy everything luxurious, you should stay at a 5 star hotel in Honolulu. The best 5-star hotels in Honolulu, HI are a different breed of hotels. While they might cost you more than regular hotels, they also offer you extra amenities, some of which can easily blow your mind! Wondering which hotels make it to our list? Check out our picks below!

HUGE Kahala Beach

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Kicking off this list is HUGE Kahala Beach, an apartment-style accommodation that offers the services and amenities of a 5-star hotel in Honolulu. What’s impressive about this place is that it’s only a few steps away from Kahala Beach, hence the name! In addition to that, Waialae Beach is also nearby. But if you’re not in the mood to venture out, an outdoor swimming pool always welcomes you. Right beside the swimming pool is a modern and big fitness center. From free weights to treadmills, it boasts all the necessary equipment.

All of the rooms on the property are equipped with standard amenities. Think free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, plush beds, and even terraces with stunning sea views! Some even come complete with a fully-equipped kitchen, allowing you to whip up your favorite meal. But if you’re too lazy to cook, you can find plenty of restaurants near the hotel, including Subway!

Aston Waikiki Beach Tower

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You should try spending your nights at Aston Waikiki Beach Tower for a fabulous stay! As the name suggests, this hotel overlooks Waikiki Beach. And unlike other 5-star hotels in Honolulu, HI, this is an all-condo hotel! It means every single room on the property is probably bigger than most, and you’ll never have to worry about space anymore. Each room comes with classical furniture and tropical accents. Better yet, they also boast private balconies from where you can admire the ocean views as well as fully-loaded kitchens.

With tons of facilities, you’ll be kept busy and happy throughout your stay. The open-air restaurant is certainly a highlight, especially for those who fancy romantic dinners. For rejuvenation, there’s a jet spa, yoga classes, a swimming pool, as well as a fitness center. Better yet, you can also find a billiard table! Since it’s set near Waikiki Beach, this is such a popular hotel. So, if you’re interested in giving it a try, don’t contemplate too long!

Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina

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The beautiful Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina overlooks the Pacific Ocean. This high-end resort should rank high for those who want to experience what it feels like to stay at one of the best 5-star hotels in Honolulu, HI. Staying at this hotel means you’ll be pampered with impeccable services and top-notch amenities. As with other Four Seasons hotels in the world, the bedrooms and suites here are gigantic, and you can also expect enormous bathrooms. Even the hotel’s smallest and cheapest accommodation is still big and equipped with everything you need!

That’s not all! In addition to the palatial rooms, the hotel also boasts a golf course and a beautiful garden that offers you direct access to the beach. When the beach is too crowded, feel free to use one of the three hotel pools instead! If you want privacy with your loved one, some rooms even come with private pools! Talk about world-class facilities!

The Modern Honolulu

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The 5-star hotels in Honolulu, HI, offer you unbeatable experiences, and The Modern Honolulu also offers the same. A favorite among locals and travelers alike, this hotel is known for its chic and resort experience. One of the main reasons behind its popularity is that it’s not set in the center of Waikiki. This is good for those who want a more secluded and tranquil hotel experience. Additionally, there are two swimming pools at the hotel, and there’s live music accompanying your dipping session most nights.

Moreover, the sleek bedrooms and suites on the property are massive and bright, and they come with not only marble bathrooms but also premium Italian linens. They even have a ukulele that you can use for free! That’s not all! The rooms also feature iPods and iPads that are pre-programmed with apps to keep you entertained throughout your stay. If you want to go all out, you should spend your nights in the suite. It comes with a separate living area and free breakfast for two people!

Trump International Hotel Waikiki

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The Trump International Hotel Waikiki offers world-class service and the perfect base from which you can explore the best of Waikiki. Located in a 38-story building, this hotel is only a stroll away from Waikiki Beach and Royal Hawaiian Center. You don’t have to leave the hotel to enjoy the day. During your leisure time, head to the sixth floor and find a beautiful infinity pool! Apart from that, there’s also a sleek spa center as well as a state-of-the-art fitness center. With four restaurants, you’ll never run out of options when it comes to dining.

Honestly, it doesn’t matter which room you choose as each of them is spacious and luxurious. You can expect spotless bathrooms with Italian marble as well as fully-equipped kitchenettes. Some suites even come with wine cellars! If you want the best, you should stay in the Trump Executive Suite. It comes with a private balcony along with outdoor furniture. The floor-to-ceiling windows allow you to admire the views of the Pacific Ocean, while the DVD player will keep you entertained when you can’t sleep.

‘Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach

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Best Hotel With a Rooftop Pool. Welcome to ‘Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach, an ideal option for travelers searching for 5-star hotels in Honolulu, HI. This hotel is home to one of the most stunning rooftop pools in the entire Waikiki. It’s big and overlooks Waikiki Beach. When you have nothing to do, take a dip and enjoy your time! Not to mention the pool is also accompanied by a number of private cabanas. Another major attraction at the hotel is its 280,000-gallon aquarium, which you can find in the lobby. This two-story aquarium features colorful reef fishes. What a sight!

The rooms at this 5-star hotel in Honolulu are nothing short of spacious. They’re modern and offer views of the beach, too. Our favorite part is the classy bathroom, which also features high-end toiletries. While the rooms are super cozy, don’t spend the entire day there, as you’ll miss out on a lot! Head out and explore the parks nearby and the less crowded beaches!

The Kahala Hotel and Resort

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At the Kahala Hotel and Resort, you can expect nothing but “excellence.” This beachfront hotel in Honolulu is set on the beach and equips itself with the finest amenities you can ever imagine. Foodies can rejoice as there are five restaurants on-site. From American to Asian cuisine, all of them will spoil your tastebuds and leave you wanting more. Meanwhile, those who want to rejuvenate their minds and bodies can make full use of the full-service spa! In the mood to splurge? The hotel also provides a free shuttle that can take you to Ala Moana Shopping Center!

Furthermore, this 5-star hotel in Honolulu has plenty of complimentary classes for which you can sign up! Have fun learning how to surf and paddleboard! Oh, you should also stop by the private lagoon, where you can spot dolphins! On top of that, the rooms and suites on the property are fitted with plenty of extra amenities. You can expect 24-hour room service, mini-bars, and even private balconies. If you want the best experience, we recommend booking the suite, which has a living area and designer furniture!

The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach Hotel

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Best Location. The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach Hotel, is a mandatory addition to our list of the best 5-star hotels in Honolulu, HI. One of the biggest selling points of this luxurious hotel is its location, which allows right in the heart of town! For instance, the Waikiki International Marketplace Shopping Center is literally only a stone’s throw away. Want to visit Waikiki Beach? It’s only a few minutes away on foot! Even the nearest airport is only around a 10-minute drive away, making it one of the best hotels near Honolulu Airport. Of course, aside from the location, this hotel also boasts plenty of first-class amenities. It’s home to two of Waikiki’s highest infinity pools, complete with private cabanas, a top-notch fitness center, a yoga room, and a theater.

Moreover, there are 522 oceanfront guestrooms and suites on the property. Better yet, they all include premium branded toiletries and kitchenettes. With floor-to-ceiling windows, island-inspired furniture, and decoration, we’re not surprised if you have a hard time leaving the room. And with a total of 246 suites, this 5-star hotel in Honolulu has the most luxurious suites on the island! Pretty impressive, isn’t it?

ESPACIO, THE JEWEL OF WAIKIKI 

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Best for Families. Though relatively new, ESPACIO, THE JEWEL OF WAIKIKI, truly lives up to its name. As Waikiki’s self-proclaimed jewel, it offers you everything you need and more. First, let’s talk about its location overlooking the iconic Waikiki Beach. Plus, this elegant Honolulu hotel is only a short drive away from Diamond Head. This also means the Honolulu Stadium Park, Honolulu Zoo, Waikiki Aquarium, Kapiolani Park, and many others are only moments away from the front door. Additionally, there are plenty of local eateries as well as big restaurant chains sprinkled around this high-end hotel.

Those looking for a 5-star hotel in Honolulu won’t be disappointed by this hotel. When you’re done unpacking your stuff, head to the rooftop infinity pool to unwind for a while. Or you can also soothe your muscles in the spa center. Making you feel like a star, there’s also a private butler that offers you anticipatory service! Perfect for large groups and families, the palatial suites on the property feature two to three bedrooms. Better yet, you can also access your suite via a private elevator. No wonder it’s seen as one of the best family hotels in Honolulu!

Halekūlani

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If you’re looking for 5-star hotels in Honolulu, HI, Halekūlani should be your top consideration. By staying at this upscale hotel, you’ll finally get that celebrity treatment you’ve been dying for. One of the highlights of this hotel is its 82-foot oceanfront swimming pool. Take a refreshing dip, relax, and take in the breathtaking views! In addition to that, guests can also rejuvenate at the spa. Or, if you want, you can also join the hotel’s free surfing and SUP lessons. This 5-star hotel in Honolulu basically promises there’s no such thing as a boring day!

Furthermore, this gay-friendly hotel in Honolulu is also home to multiple award-winning restaurants. You can visit La Mer with your significant other for a romantic candlelight dinner. For brunch, Orchids is the place to be. Lastly, if you want to enjoy good food, live music, and hula performances, you should pay House Without a Key a visit. When it comes to the rooms, there are so many options to choose from. Lucky for you, all of them smell good (thanks to the fresh orchids) and are fitted with the best amenities. You can expect views of Diamon Head, marble bathrooms, and soaking tubs!

The Royal Hawaiian

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Best Overall. Sitting on top of this list is the historic Royal Hawaiian. This iconic hotel is also called the “Pink Palace of the Pacific.” Once you take a look at the building, you’ll understand why! Since it was built in 1927, this historic hotel in Waikiki has been attracting travelers and A-listers. Once you’re inside the hotel, you’ll feel like you’re in a different era. Everything on the property feels retro and vintage. In fact, many TV series and movies have used the hotel as their filming site, including the legendary Mad Men! Many of the rooms here are fitted with mid-century furniture. Of course, you can also expect comfy beds and marble bathrooms.

In addition to that, this 5-star hotel in Honolulu also proudly boasts an old-style swimming pool, which is the perfect spot on-site to chillax. Just like the building itself, the pool is surrounded by pink sun loungers as well as some private cabanas. Once you’re done taking a dip, why not continue pampering your body in the upscale ap center? Before you call it a day, you must stop by the on-site Mai Tai Bar, which offers cocktails on the beach!

Our Verdict!

From out-of-this-world amenities to top-notch services, the 5-star hotels in Honolulu, HI will easily please even the pickiest travelers! But since each of them has different things to offer, choosing only one to try out can be a challenge. Thus, we’ve made a special list of the standout hotels according to the following criteria:

• Best Overall: The Royal Hawaiian
• Best for Families: ESPACIO THE JEWEL OF WAIKIKI 
• Best Hotel With a Rooftop Pool: ‘Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach
• Best Location: The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach Hotel

Where to Stay in Honolulu

From visiting the beach to trying out the local eateries, there are so many things to do in Honolulu. But to enjoy Honolulu to the max, you’ll want to stay in Waikiki, which is hands down the most popular area. Waikiki is a vibrant neighborhood that features your favorite 5-star hotel in Honolulu and the popular Waikiki Beach, Honolulu Zoo, and other must-visit attractions.

Also, did you know that Ala Moana Shopping Center, one of the most amazing shopping malls in the world, is also in Honolulu? It’s set in the city center, accompanied by fellow high-rise buildings, luxurious supermarkets, and lush parks like Kapiolani Park and Ala Moana Beach Park.

What are the best 5-star hotels in Honolulu?

All of our picks above are the best 5-star hotels in Honolulu, HI. Though our number one pick is the Royal Hawaiian, other options are just equally amazing or maybe better for you!

Which 5-star hotels in Honolulu are romantic?

Some of the most romantic 5-star hotels in Honolulu, HI, include the Aston Waikiki Beach Tower and Halekūlani.

How much does it cost to stay at a 5-star hotel in Honolulu?

Normally, staying at a 5-star hotel in Honolulu can cost you around 600 USD per night. Of course, depending on the season, it can cost you less or more.