11 Best Vacation Houses in Honolulu

When we dream of the perfect getaway, Honolulu inevitably tops our list. The allure of its pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and endless sunshine calls to us, promising a slice of paradise. But to truly immerse ourselves in this Hawaiian haven, finding the right place to stay is key. No, we’re not just talking about hotels. Below, you’ll uncover the best vacation houses in Honolulu. They’re where you, hopefully like we did, could unwind, explore, and create unforgettable memories. Our picks consist of beachfront retreats, secluded oases, and many more, offering the perfect backdrop for your island adventure. So, let’s wait no more and dive right in and discover your next dream vacation spot.

Maunalua Sunset

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Staying at Maunalua Sunset was pure paradise. Perched on Maunalua Bay, this vacation rental offered everything our large group could have asked for. The privacy was amazing. The property sprawled across a double-sized ocean lot, with multiple buildings surrounding a central courtyard and a massive pool. We never felt cramped, even with everyone relaxing or gathered around the pool. Speaking of the pool, it was a dream come true – perfect for cooling off and unwinding after a day of exploring.

The location was unbeatable. Waking up to those panoramic views of the bay, Diamond Head, Koko Head, and even Waikiki in the distance was breathtaking. And the sunsets? Absolutely magical. However, the real showstopper was the primary suite in the separate oceanfront building. The California king bed was incredibly comfortable, and the smart TV with ocean views was luxurious. Having a walk-in closet, dual vanities, and not just one but two toilets was pure bliss. The other bedrooms were spread out throughout another building, offering plenty of privacy for everyone.

Hale Makai at Diamond Head

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Let’s talk about Hale Makai at Diamond Head. The location of this vacation house is hard to beat. We got the best of both worlds – secluded luxury on the oceanfront with Diamond Head as our stunning backdrop, yet we were close to the excitement of Waikiki, which was just a short drive away. What’s more, we spent most of our time relaxing in the gorgeous living space. The vaulted ceilings made it feel incredibly airy, and the view of the ocean was truly breathtaking. Stepping out onto the grassy lawn felt like walking into a postcard, with the lush greenery and the beach just a stone’s throw away. No wonder some people see it as one of the best beach houses in Honolulu.

Thanks to the ensuite setup in each bedroom, we never had to fight over bathrooms, and everyone slept comfortably in the king-sized or queen-sized beds. Having air conditioning in each room was great, especially after a long day at the beach. If you’re the chef in your group, you’ll love the kitchen. It’s fully stocked with everything you could need, and the appliances were all new and top-of-the-line. We had some amazing meals with that incredible ocean view as our company. Speaking of meals, the grill came in handy for those nights we wanted to relax by the pool and enjoy a casual barbecue.

Historic Home at the Base of Diamond Head

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The Historic Home at the Base of Diamond Head is another highly recommended vacation house. As the name suggests, this historic home was lovingly restored to its 1937 grandeur. It welcomed us with a private park all its own. Towering Kukui and Ulu trees swayed in the cool trade winds, while fruit trees bursting with mangoes, limes, avocados, and bananas painted a picture of tropical abundance. And then there it was – the breathtaking sight that stole our breath away. It was the endless expanse of the Pacific Ocean in a dazzling display of crystal blue.

The house is a masterpiece of split-level design, blending indoor and outdoor living like they’re one. One side offers cool, air-conditioned comfort, with private bedrooms, luxurious bathrooms, and everything you need for a relaxing stay. On the other side, expansive living areas embrace the open concept, blurring the lines between the stunning outdoors and the beautifully appointed interior. Finally, the three large bedroom suites, each with its own ensuite bathroom, offer a haven of peace and quiet, ensuring a restful night’s sleep after a day of Hawaiian adventures.

Kahala Grand Splendor

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Stepping through the solid mahogany doors of Kahala Grand Splendor, we were immediately struck by the grandeur of it. This wasn’t just a vacation rental but a luxurious escape designed for complete indulgence. Located right in Kahala, with Diamond Head practically in the backyard, the whole residence oozed contemporary elegance. With its curved mahogany and glass staircase, the two-story foyer set the tone for the rest of the house. Warm woods and natural stone were everywhere, creating a rich and inviting ambiance. Downstairs was a bedroom with a bathroom and a media room, each with its own en suite, perfect for some of us who wanted some personal space.

Upstairs, the master suite was a dream. It had a massive sitting area, its own private lanai, and a spa-like bathroom complete with a Roman tub, a huge walk-in shower, and separate vanities. There was also another guest bedroom and an office space that shared a bathroom. The common areas were equally impressive. The sleek, modern kitchen had everything we could ever need, with top-of-the-line appliances and finishes. There was a formal dining area for eight, which was perfect as we wanted to have a special meal. We would usually end our night in the generously sized pool with its ion cleaning system, taking a dip under the Hawaiian sky.

Moana Lani

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Moana Lani is all about sheer elegance. Luxurious and inviting, this is the perfect place for reunions and gatherings. The first thing that hit us was the view. Sitting right on the edge of Maunalua Bay, this house offered an ocean view that stretched out before us like a giant canvas. We spent countless hours just relaxing on the lanai, soaking it all in. Inside, the living areas were spacious and comfortable. Movie nights were a breeze in the cozy media room, and the large kitchen was a dream come true for the chefs in our family.

Now, let’s talk about the pool. We spent hours splashing around in the private pool, soaking in the hot tub, and challenging each other to games of shuffleboard. The outdoor furniture was plush and comfortable, and the view of the ocean was ever-present. In the evenings, we’d grill up a feast on the BBQ and eat under the Hawaiian sky on the large dining table – pure bliss. There’s also a ping-pong table if you’re into some friendly competition. The bedrooms are just as amazing. Upstairs, the two primary suites are like something out of a magazine – king-sized beds, luxurious ensuites with soaking tubs and walk-in showers, and private balconies with breathtaking ocean views. Everyone in our group raved about the comfort and privacy of their rooms.

Ocean House

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Best Views. If you’re someone who craves luxury and a connection with nature, Ocean House is the perfect choice. This modern estate offers a sense of spaciousness that takes your breath away. The show’s real star, however, is the uninterrupted ocean view that stretches as far as the eye can see. Each of the three suites feels like its own private oasis. They’re all incredibly spacious, with ensuite bathrooms for maximum comfort and privacy. Our favorite was the upstairs primary suite, which came with its own sitting room with a work desk, perfect for us who needed to blend work and relaxation. If you’re looking for a truly unique experience, the downstairs primary suite boasts a split-level room with gym equipment. Yes, please!

The grand room is the heart of the home, with its soaring 25-foot ceilings and an infinity pool that seems to disappear into the ocean. We loved relaxing while hearing the sound of the cascading indoor waterfall. It was super tranquil. But Ocean House isn’t just about luxurious interiors. Speaking of which, we also enjoyed taking a dip in the jacuzzi and infinity pool. It felt like we were swimming in the ocean itself.

KBM Resorts Waikiki Hilltop House

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You can’t talk about the best vacation rentals in Honolulu without mentioning KBM Resorts Waikiki Hilltop House. From the moment you pull up and take in the sweeping ocean and city views, you know this house is fantastic. And that’s before you even factor in the free rental car they offer for stays over six nights – what a way to start the trip! We loved the design of this house a lot. The architecture seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor living, with giant sliding doors opening onto a gorgeous heated infinity pool and jacuzzi. Speaking of relaxation, the master suite on the main floor is pure luxury. We were blown away by the walk-in closets, the stunning bathroom with a soaking tub, the walk-in shower, and the dry sauna.

The rest of the house is just as impressive. There’s an upstairs bedroom with its own lanai and private bathroom, perfect for a getaway within a getaway. Downstairs, there’s another living area with a secondary kitchen, an entertainment room with air hockey and ping pong (hours of fun!), and three more bedrooms. Plus, a steam room and an office space. Whatever we needed, we had it all. It was truly impressive. Little touches, like the turntable for easy car maneuvering and the two-car garage, also added to the overall convenience.

Kahala Beachside Estate

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Our stay at the Kahala Beachside Estate was one of the most incredible. This place is absolutely perfect for a big family reunion or group trip. It’s got everything you could ever want in a vacation rental and then some. First off, the location is unbeatable. Right on the beach with direct access? It doesn’t get much better than that. We spent hours swimming in the ocean and soaking up the sun. And when we weren’t feeling the salt water, the pool and jacuzzi were perfect for relaxing. This house is both huge and luxurious, but it still has this charming, old Hawaii feel. We loved all the places to relax and unwind, whether it was on the comfy couches in the living room or having a big meal around the dining table.

There are seven bedrooms in the main house, each with its own en suite bathroom and amazing amenities. We had two primary suites upstairs: a clawfoot tub and a private lanai overlooking the ocean and a jetted tub. The other bedrooms were all spacious and comfortable, with some offering lanais and garden or mountain views. There’s also a separate Carriage House with its own living area, kitchen, and full-size bedroom, which was perfect for a couple in our group who wanted a little extra privacy.

Kahala Mini Resort

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Best Beachfront. When searching for the best beach houses in Honolulu, the Kahala Mini Resort should be in the conversation. It truly deserves its name. This house felt like our own private Hawaiian paradise. Stepping through the gated entrance, we were greeted by lush greenery and sparkling pools. We could already hear the gentle sound of the waterfalls, instantly melting away any stress. Inside, everything was breathtaking. The gorgeous wood and slate floors felt luxurious underfoot, and the wide open living space made it perfect for socializing with our entire group. We spent evenings relaxing on the couch, mesmerized by the ocean views through the giant sliding glass doors.

The kitchen was well-equipped for preparing group meals, and the dining room opened onto a lovely lanai with additional seating and a barbecue area. We had some fantastic barbecues under the stars, enjoying the delicious food and each other’s company. The resort easily accommodated all of us. Thanks to the multiple bedrooms, each with private bathrooms, everyone had their own space to relax. This is the perfect place for a family gathering or even a corporate retreat, offering privacy and ample socializing space.

“This place is awesome. If you want to spoil yourself and have no budget limits, stay here!”

WOW Travel

For more beachfront accommodations, check out these beachfront hotels in Honolulu!

Sea Cliff Chic

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Best Amenities. We kid you not; our stay at Sea Cliff Chic was pure magic. It’s a modern take on the Hawaiian dream, with wide open spaces designed to soak in the incredible ocean views. The heart of the house is the grand room. With 25-foot ceilings and walls that disappear completely, it truly feels like indoor and outdoor living are one. One minute, we were relaxing by the indoor waterfall and the next, we were unwinding on the chaise lounges by the infinity pool, the horizon line blurring between the water’s edge and the endless blue.

But the magic doesn’t stop there. The hidden sand terrace tucked beneath the yard was a delightful surprise. We spent hours down there exploring the tide pools, spotting colorful fish and hermit crabs. It felt like having our own private cove. While there’s no beach right on the doorstep, the stunning sunsets over Diamond Head from Maunalua Bay were breathtaking. Plus, with Hanauma Bay‘s world-class snorkeling just a short drive away, we had the best of both worlds. And for those days when we didn’t feel like venturing out, there were great shops, restaurants, and even adventure tour companies in the nearby Hawaii Kai Town Center and Koko Marina.

Banyan House

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Most Luxurious. Believe it or not, we managed to find paradise in Honolulu in the form of Banyan House. From the moment we entered the grand room with its soaring ceilings and breathtaking ocean view, we knew we were in for something special. This luxurious estate offered more space than we could have imagined, with seven bedrooms, eight full baths, and a half-bath spread across a sprawling 14,000 square feet. The house itself was like a work of art. One wing housed a gourmet kitchen, perfect for whipping up extravagant meals, while the other boasted a home gym, perfect for those who like to stay active on vacation.

The primary bedroom was pure magic – sliding walls opened up the entire space, letting us fall asleep to the symphony of the ocean. But the beauty wasn’t confined to the house itself. Stepping outside, we were greeted by a shimmering pool and a meticulously landscaped yard leading straight down to a pristine beachfront. The cove was perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or just soaking up the Hawaiian sun. We were also able to work up a sweat in the gym. Nestled in the prestigious Kahala neighborhood, Banyan House offered peace and tranquility while still being close to everything we wanted to do. Honolulu’s finest restaurants and shops were a short drive away, and iconic spots like Hanauma Bay and Pearl Harbor were easily accessible for day trips.

Are you craving more luxury places? Here are the most expensive hotels in Hawaii.

Our Verdict!

Each vacation house above offers different experiences and caters to different kinds of travelers. To help make things easier for you, we’ve categorized some of them based on the following: take a look.

• Most Luxurious: Banyan House
• Best Amenities: Sea Cliff Chic
• Best Beachfront: Kahala Mini Resort
• Best Views: Ocean House

Where to Stay in Honolulu?

There are so many areas in Honolulu worth being called home. However, Waikiki is among the most popular options. This iconic neighborhood is synonymous with luxury, featuring world-class resorts, high-end shopping at Kalakaua Avenue, and fine dining. The beachfront location provides stunning views and easy access to Waikiki Beach.

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Aside from that, there’s Kahala. Known for its opulence and tranquility, Kahala is home to some of Honolulu’s most luxurious vacation houses and the renowned Kahala Hotel & Resort, one of the best beach hotels in Oahu. The area offers secluded beaches and a peaceful ambiance, perfect for a relaxing getaway.

As you can see from our list above, Diamond Head is another highly recommended place. This prestigious area offers stunning ocean views and proximity to the Diamond Head Crater, a famous hiking destination. The neighborhood features exclusive homes and boutique hotels, ideal for those seeking a mix of adventure and relaxation.

For those who enjoy the buzz of city life with a touch of elegance, Downtown Honolulu offers upscale hotels (think 5-star hotels in Honolulu), fine dining, and cultural attractions such as the Iolani Palace and the Honolulu Museum of Art. It’s a great base for exploring the city while enjoying high-end accommodations.

How many days is enough for Honolulu?

It depends on what you want to do. If you want to relax on the beach and explore Waikiki, 3-5 days is a good amount of time. If you want to hike, go surfing, and explore other parts of Oahu, you’ll want to plan for a longer trip, at least 5-7 days. This will give you time to experience the island’s culture and natural beauty.

What is the best time to visit Honolulu?

The best time to visit Honolulu depends on what you prioritize. Aim for the best weather with warm temperatures and minimal rain for April, May, September, or early October. These shoulder months offer pleasant conditions and fewer crowds compared to the peak summer season.

Do I need cash in Honolulu?

You won’t necessarily need a lot of cash in Honolulu, as most places accept credit cards. However, bringing some for tipping, small purchases, and exploring areas outside Waikiki where credit cards might be less common is a good idea.