11 Best Luxury Hotels in Oahu on the Beach

Oʻahu was a visual and sensory attack on our senses – but the absolutely wonderful kind. Think turquoise waters, tropical temperatures and aromas, and verdant rainforests – there was just so much to see and do here at the “Gathering Place,” as the island is called. In fact, we can confidently say that it’s one of the most underrated of the Hawaiian islands. Whether it was surfing in Oahu’s dramatic North Shore or digging into delicious food in Honolulu, there was tons to do on the island. Besides this, we were looking for the ultimate Hawaiian experience – staying in one of the many luxury hotels in Oahu on the beach! From all-inclusive adults-only resorts and not-so-secret celeb hideaways to sprawling historic estate beach properties, Oahu allowed us to do that – and how!

Between a plethora of onsite activities, a gourmet dining scene, and panoramic ocean views, staying at a luxury hotel definitely had its perks, with paradise available right at our doorstep. Here’s our round-up of some of the best luxury beachfront stays that Oahu has to offer.

Halekulani

11

The venerable Halekulani, which aptly means “House befitting heaven” in Hawaiian, celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2017. However, today, it’s a far cry from its origins as a five-cottage hotel! 

We were transported to a bygone era at this blissful haven, which felt a world away from the masses that throng Waikiki. Sitting right next to Fort Derussy Beach Park in Waikiki Bay, the hotel offered us spectacular views of Diamond Head. The mosaic 82-foot-long pool was perfect for a midday dip, after which pool attendants indulged us as we rested under shady umbrellas. There’s a swanky beach-facing gym, but we loved the spa and the umpteen choices for Hawaiian massages, wraps, and facials. After evening walks on the immaculate electric-green grounds, we’d be hungry enough to head to the onsite restaurants, which are some of Honolulu’s best. In fact, the classic Afternoon Tea at the Orchids restaurant with Waikiki Beach views was an unparalleled indulgent experience. The best bit? We had direct access to the small, secluded beach.

When signature chocolates and fresh fruit bowls welcome you into your rooms, you know you’ve chosen the right place to stay. We chose the premier Halekkulani Suite, which Vera Wang designed! The covered wraparound balcony was where we’d spend most of our time, if not in the spa-styled bathroom. In fact, the resort even arranged for an intimate meal for the two of us in our suite. And since this was one of the premier suites, we were also treated to complimentary breakfasts on our balcony, a complete bar, and even a dedicated personal butler during our stay! It’s no wonder it’s one of Honolulu’s best beachfront hotels and even one of Honoululu’s best 5-star hotels.

Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa

10

Best beachfront spa. Imagine having been an iconic property for a century – 1901, to be exact – and still be counted as one of the city’s most luxurious stays – that’s Moana Surfrider for you. The iconic port-cochere at this Westin Resort & Spa is emblematic of Honolulu luxury.

But its crowning glory is that it boasts the only oceanfront spa in Waikiki, the incredible Moana Lani Spa. It not only had a whirlpool and a steam room but even had zero-gravity waiting room chairs! Of its 14 treatment rooms, we loved the Apuakehau Suite, which came with a private whirlpool tub and three-walled white shutters with panoramic sea views. Sigh. But that’s not all. We enjoyed idyllic swims and lounging at the seaside pool and elaborate meals at four restaurants and bars. Our favorite was digging into charcuterie boards and sipping wine at Vintage 1901 during sundown. What we loved about the resort was that they even offered guided historical walks and surfing and stand-up paddleboard lessons right on Waikiki Beach out front, to which we had direct access.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Moana Surfrider (@themoanasurfrider)

The resort’s setting might be homey historic with the huge leafy seaside banyan tree, the hanging cage lanterns, and the grand staircase, but the rooms are thoroughly that of a Marriott property. We chose the highest room in the room category, which was the Tower Premier Ocean View, from where we could even see Diamond Head. Apart from the plethora of amenities, we loved that we had a balcony from where we could truly enjoy the spectacular beachfront views.

Moana Surfrider might be historic, but did you know that it’s also one of the top gay-friendly of Hawaii’s hotels? Yes!

The Royal Hawaiian

9

Most historic beachfront hotel. The dusty-pink stucco-exterior Royal Hawaiian, a.k.a. Waikiki’s famous “Pink Palace,” sits at the northern end of Waikiki Beach and has been serving guests since 1927. This beachfront hotel is slightly unusual;  most of its original rooms and vaulted archways overlook a leafy central corridor rather than the ocean. That was because when ship travelers reached Hawaii, they used to have had their fill of sea views. Apart from some water-facing historic rooms, the hotel even has a newer, rose-rimmed tower offering elevated sea views. Nevertheless, we chose the Historic Ocean Deluxe Room, which offered us superb views of the sea but with original features like four-poster beds and intricate pink-patterned wallpaper. Plus, it had all the mod-cons for a memorably indulgent stay.

“You’d hardly think historic hotels for beachfront luxury, but the Royal Hawaiian was one of the best places we’ve ever stayed at.”

WOW Travel

Right from the time we checked in with flower leis around our necks to the welcome banana bread in our room, the experience felt personal and, more importantly, upscale. Chilled towels were presented to us after our hearty swim at the circular pool. In fact, we could even use the seaside pool at the neighboring Sheraton Waikiki. Our visit to the Abhasa Spa was spectacular, especially since we enjoyed massages in the outdoor cabanas. After mai tais with a twist at the eponymous bar, we enjoyed a candlelit oceanfront dinner at the Azure restaurant. And, of course, the beach was right out front – all we had to do was step out on the sand. All in all, we had a mightily indulgent historic stay at what is one of Waikiki’s oldest hotels.

Turtle Bay Resort

8

We were looking for a luxurious Oahu beachfront resort to indulge in all sorts of water activities, and there was no better place to do that than Turtle Bay Resort, North Shore’s only resort. Located far from the tourist throngs of Honolulu, this resort boasts a boatload of adventurous activities for intrepid travelers like us. We indulged in fun-filled water activities and sports, including scuba, surfing, snorkeling and stand-up paddle boarding lessons. Off the water, we loved exploring the neighborhood via segway tours and the island on foot, hiking everywhere. Heck, we even went horseback riding and shark cage diving! Plus, we were even able to see the island from the sky on a thrilling Oahu Helicopter Tour. And, of course, the sandy beach, where we could swim with the turtles, was merely steps away!

On the days that we spent at the resort, we had plenty to indulge in. When we weren’t at the miles-long private beach, we were at the adults-only infinity pool, one of the four pools here. For an absolutely indulgent experience, we booked a cabana for the day. Our next stop was the Nalu Spa, where we indulged in romantic seaside spa treatments. While even the basic rooms here come with sea views, we went about 20 steps ahead and booked the private oasis that is their ocean bungalow for an ultimate indulgent getaway. Located steps from the sand, the modern bungalow had a private lanai (balcony), and we even had a personal Bungalow Host! Plus, we had access to all the perks and privileges of the Ocean Club Lounge and – get this – access to a private pool especially reserved for bungalow guests. Whoever said that adventure couldn’t be luxurious?

Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina

7

Best laidback luxury. The Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina isn’t just your average resort; it’s practically a full-blown resort town in itself! Tucked on the shores of the emerald-blue Ko Olina lagoons, the quiet and elegant property arranged for us to arrive by private car – although they do offer helicopter and yacht services, too!

This luxurious resort is all about unexpected delights, whether the “tanning butler” reminded us to slather on the SPF or paddle an outrigger canoe into the waters. In fact, the resort had all the usual luxury resort trappings – a 24-hour gym, tennis courts, a golf course, and a sublime spa – but it went above and beyond with the Wayfinders program. We loved learning the nuances of stargazing, playing the ukulele, and dyeing sarongs from local experts, who then regaled us with tales of the archipelago. The real thrill, though, was at the Deep Freediving Center headed by Daniel Koval, one of the masters of diving. Does all this make you hungry? It made us hungry, too, and we had five eateries to choose from. Did we mention that one of the complimentary amenities included a free ride in the house car – a USD 200,000 Mercedes-Maybach sedan? Yep. 

Regarding accommodations, nothing beats the seafront Pacific Suite, whose unique features include a private sea-facing plunge pool on the lanai, outdoor dining, and a garden overlooking the ocean. What more could we ask for?

The Kahala Hotel and Resort

6

Imagine stumbling upon a quiet, luxurious escape on Waikiki Beach and one of Waikiki’s best luxury hotels – that’s the Kahala Hotel and Resort for you. Tucked in an affluent seaside neighborhood, its roster of former guests includes eight US presidents, Queen Elizabeth II, the Dalai Lama, Frank Sinatra, and more. And we wanted to feature in that roster, too – apart from enjoying the tasteful opulence, of course.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by The Kahala Hotel & Resort (@kahala_resort)

After a wonderful welcome with a flower lei and a chilled towel, we were shown to our ocean-facing suite, which was just the right amount of luxury without being showy. They boasted the best views on the property, along with a lanai and state-of-the-art mod-cons and entertainment systems. Did we tell you about the nightly turndown with Hawaiian salt chocolates? Yes.

Moreover, there are many other ways in which we could let our hair down on the property, and that too for free. Not only did the place offer free surf lessons, but we also had the pleasure of indulging in paddleboarding, lei-making, and hula dancing! Plus, we got to borrow the bikes for free and explore the property – and the neighborhood. After a relaxing swim and poolside lounge followed by a massage at the spa, it was time for afternoon tea and cocktails at the lounge, which even had live music. However, the highlight here was the stingrays, turtles, and even dolphins in the waterfall-fed lagoon surrounding the property, where we could pay to swim with and feed the dolphins!

Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort

5

Imagine having not just a beach all to yourself but even having a private lagoon to swim in – that’s the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort for you.

It sits right on Kahanamoku Beach, with the Hilton/Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon right next to it, with a lovely boardwalk separating both of them. In fact, we loved the many water activities on offer at the saltwater lagoon, such as paddleboarding, swimming, etc. We were impressed by the range of water sports rental equipment the hotel offered, from snorkeling gear to kayaks and stand-up paddleboards. Plus, we could walk right out onto Kahanamoku or Waikiki Beach from the property, which was one of the most luxurious offerings ever. But there was a lot more to do at the Hilton property, especially the five pools that were available to us. That and the exquisite Mandara Spa ensured that we had one of the most relaxing holidays ever.

We had the choice of five towers at this all-suite hotel, and we chose one with complete ocean views – the Deluxe Oceanfront King Room. Aside from the modern amenities, what we loved was the end-to-end views of Waikiki Beach, along with spectacular views of Diamond Head.

Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort

4

There’s no way to draw up a list of Oahu’s best beach hotels without having the Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort on it. Sitting just steps from Waikiki Beach, and that too because of its sheer size, this resort is all about luxury infused with a host of local traditions.

Its absolutely mind-blowing shorefront location aside, we loved the beachfront amenities here. Not surprisingly, we’d flock to the resort’s sprawling sun lounger and palms-lined pool, where cocktails, snacks, and chilled towels were circulated continuously. Steps behind that, the beach beckoned, especially since the legendary Kelly Slater is a resident instructor for surfing lessons! When we sought blissful downtime, we booked the heavenly Infinity Massage & Spa rather than heading to the actual spa. Basically, we opted for in-room massages and treatments, which took place in a glorious ocean-facing penthouse. Extending the importance of its beachside location, we’d like to mention our fave eating spot on the property, the institution that is Duke’s. Tucked right on the sands under fringed umbrellas and towering palms, Duke’s amazing ice-cream menu and beachside location absolutely mesmerized us.

For further indulgence, we booked the Voyager Club 47 oceanfront room, which came with a perk of its own – access to the Voyager 47 Club Lounge with its own waterfront balcony over Waikiki Beach! The access aside, the room also had a lanai, all the usual five-star trappings, and some of the most gorgeous beach views on Oahu.

Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa

3

Best kid-friendly luxury. Are you traveling to Oahu with kids? Beachfront kid-friendly luxury doesn’t get any better than at Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa, located, as the name suggests, right across from Waikiki Beach. What’s more, it’s close to Waikiki Aquarium, Honolulu Zoo, and Kapiolani Park. As soon as we stepped into the renovated Nanea Lobby, the beautiful Polynesian decor and wide open spaces felt instantly welcoming. We chose a spacious, newly-renovated ocean-front Junior Suite in the Kealohilani Tower, which was one of the largest we’d seen in all of Waikiki. Not only did it have fantastic views of Diamond Head, but it also had a gorgeous lanai and simple sea-inspired decor.

But what set the hotel apart was the fantastic amenities here. For one, there are not one but two heated outdoor saltwater pools – the adults-only Paoakalani Pool and the kid-friendly Kealohilani Pool. As the children splashed about in the pool, we enjoyed a languorous soak in the hot tub nearby. Thanks to the babysitting services provided at this Marriott resort, we were able to enjoy a much-needed massage and body treatment at the Aveda-concept Royal Kaila day spa on the property. However, the highlight was the presence of multiple food offerings, including in-room dining, which meant that the kids didn’t get bored! It’s no surprise that it’s one of Oahu’s best family hotels.

Prince Waikiki

2

When we’re on a working holiday, our idea of a beachfront spot sometimes includes gorgeous waterfront spots as well. And as on-the-go travelers who wanted to impress clients with amazing views, Prince Waikiki was perfect for us. It sits on the west side of Waikiki Beach, fronting a gorgeous marina, which meant that we were treated to amazing views of boats bobbing on the harbor every day. After a seamless check-in experience, we were shown to our Oceanfront Premier Room, and our appreciation for the hotel grew by leaps and bounds. The views through the floor-to-ceiling windows were spectacular; we could even open them to take in the sea breeze. Aside from a massive TV, a luxurious bathtub, a dreamy bed, a coffeemaker, and a mini-fridge were excellent amenities to have, especially after a long day of work.

Since we were on a work trip, we wowed clients with the spectacular sunset views over the harbor at the hotel’s signature restaurant, 100 Sails. That said, the pool is the hotel’s crowning glory, aside from being the perfect place to even get in some work with cocktails. In fact, we enjoyed the ultimate sunset swim overlooking the harbor at the adults-only infinity pool, which felt like a reward for a good day’s work! It’s no wonder that it’s also considered one of Oahu’s best boutique hotels.

Sheraton Waikiki Beach Resort

1

The Sheraton Waikiki Beach Resort might seem like a corporate highrise in the middle of Waikiki, but in reality, it’s a massive resort that stretches right out to the beach. A dedicated airport shuttle brought us to the seaside resort, which comes with an amenities fee – but it has a unique catch. We could fill up on goodies such as cookies, coffee, candy, wine, beer, and even reusable beach bags from the gratis gift shop – all as part of the amenities fee. In fact, the fee even included cultural classes like hula hooping, playing the ukulele, and lei making, which we enjoyed thoroughly.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Sheraton Waikiki (@sheratonwaikiki)

We were most impressed by the adults-only Edge Pool, where we enjoyed long, quiet swims followed by an indulgent lounge at the daybeds, where the dedicated ‘pool ambassadors’ brought us chilled towels. But that wasn’t all – we loved the Edge Bar, which had nightly live Hawaiian entertainment. Don’t miss their featured drink, the frozen froth-topped Kirin Ichiban beer. For families with kids, the freeform Helumoa pool, one of Waikiki’s largest, is magnificent, complete with a waterslide and a sensational light and music show that’s a must-watch. In fact, families could drop kids off in the babysitting room, which even had a host of on-site activities. 

Since we were SPG club members, we booked the Oceanfront Deluxe Room, which, apart from its spectacular views, also came with access to the amazing 30th-floor Leahi Club. Besides having some of the best views in all of Honolulu, we were even treated to free snacks and complimentary breakfast spreads here.

Our Verdict!

Obviously, Oahu is not short of four and five-star beachfront hotels, but there are some that will probably appeal to you more than others. That’s why we’ve made this specialized list:

• Best beachfront spa: Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa
• Most historic beachfront hotel: The Royal Hawaiian
• Best laidback luxury: Four Seasons Resort Oahu At Ko Olina
• Best kid-friendly luxury: Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa

Where to Stay in Oahu?

Oahu is one of those destinations that has never disappointed us, which is why we’ve gone back more than once. With it being named one of the world’s most spectacular sunset locations, that’s not surprising, is it? So, where does one stay on this island if one is looking for beachfront luxury?

When we think of Oahu, we immediately think of Honolulu’s amazing neighborhood, Waikiki, a tourism hub home to some of the world’s most iconic beaches, too. In fact, the Waikiki Beach area is our top pick for a beachside neighborhood to stay. Plus, we had most of the top things to do in Oahu, HI right on our doorstep. Next, there’s Diamond Head, which has just a handful of options when it comes to beachfront luxury stays – but it does. It’s the place to stay for adventure seekers, as hiking up the dormant volcano is a next-door activity.

When we wanted to venture away from the crowds, we would head to the western Leeward Coast, which is Oahu’s least commercial area. The only exception – and where we’d stay – was the Ko Olina luxury resort area at the southern end, with a cluster of luxurious 5-star beachfront hotels in Oahu, HI. It has a marina, a golf course, seven lagoons, and some stunning white-sand beaches. 

Which side of Oahu has the best beaches?

The East Windward Oahu Region and its beaches are some of the best in the world. They offer enviable views of two offshore islands, known as “the Mokes,” locally.

Which beach in Oahu has the clearest water?

That would be Lanikai Beach, with its crystal-clear waters and thrilling water sports abundant on the pristine white sands.

Is Oahu good for honeymoon?

Absolutely! In fact, Oahu is one of the most amazing honeymoon destinations in the world. So, beachfront luxury stays are very popular with honeymooning couples.