Top 15 Cool and Trendy Hotels In Honolulu 2023

A beautiful and buzzing city and gateway to the famously dreamy island chain, Honolulu is on many a traveler’s bucket list. It’s located on Oahu, one of the most visited islands in Hawaii, and boasts many alluring reasons to kick back and stay for a while.

Dine in the pan-Asian alleys of Chinatown, take a stroll along the breezy cosmopolitan harborfront, explore the world’s largest open-air shopping center at Ala Moana, browse museums, hike the mist-shrouded forested hiking trails, relax and watch the sunset on the world-famous Waikīkī Beach and then party the night away at one of the city’s lively clubs. 

Now find yourself an excellent place to stay that will sum up the spirit of the fun-loving city, from creative boutiques to the grand and modern. Here are the best amazing and trendy hotels in Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii (in no particular order).

Our Top 3 Best Cool and Unusual Hotels
1.
H1 l Global Grasshopper – travel inspiration for the road less travelled
Best For Trendy Design
The Laylow, Autograph Collection
2.
H2 l Global Grasshopper – travel inspiration for the road less travelled
Best For Partying
The Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club
3.
H3 l Global Grasshopper – travel inspiration for the road less travelled
Best For Instagrammable Decor
Espacio The Jewel of Waikiki
Best For Trendy Design

The Laylow, Autograph Collection

Set in a lush garden, this Waikiki hotel is perfectly designed with a mid-century modern aesthetic, guiding its guests to step back in time to the elegance of 1960s Hawaii, yet with a sultry vibe.

Because no trip to paradise should cramp your style, you will find low-key, tropical furnishings and lanais in all rooms, complimented by high-end technology and Insta-famous monstera wallpaper.

Guests can enjoy the sunshine in the saltwater pool, which features lounge seating, teak accents, and lush greenery.

Laylow’s signature restaurant, the ‘Hideout,’ serves modern Hapa Hawaiian cuisine sourced from local farms, the ocean, and a wide array of artisan cocktails.

Pros

Mid-century modern aesthetic

Hapa Hawaiian cuisine

Lush greenery

Saltwater pool

Cons

Compact parking area

No in-room coffee machines

Some noise in the evenings

Best For Partying

The Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club

This vibrant new hotel, which takes cues from vintage 1960s Hawaii, awaits guests with a truly boutique experience, radiating through its 112 bungalows and suites.

The visitors feel the energy of Waikiki at this quirky hotel, courtesy of its handcrafted design elements, surf-culture throwbacks, and modern touches.

The Waikiki heritage comes alive from the mid-century-inspired coffee tables to the carefully curated artwork to the historical nods woven into each room. It exhibits the true meaning of ‘Aloha.’

The open-space feel and stylish décor contribute to the Surfjack’s sense of curiosity, inspiring adventure amongst its guests. The recipient of many prestigious accolades, this swell little respite is the perfect spot for those searching for the ‘endless summer.’

Pros

Surf-themed design

Mahina & Sun's restaurant

Private cabanas available

Onsite Swim Club

Cons

Can get booked up

Lively vibe might not be for everyone

Not aimed at all ages

Best For Instagrammable Decor

Espacio The Jewel of Waikiki

Here, we have the ultimate oceanfront retreat, rising deep in the heart of Waikiki to provide incomparable privacy across nine full-floor suites within an exclusive haven.

This one-of-a-kind sanctuary can only be described as ‘The Jewel of Waikiki’ due to its elite world-class status and many prestigious awards.

The Moroccan metal latticework and the lavish details from Italian marble finishes are thoughtfully curated to define a stay unlike any other.

Opulence, rejuvenation, tranquillity, expansive ocean views, and balcony jacuzzis make this hotel the dream vacation home. Its approach to hospitality is inspired by Omotenashi, delivering the guests’ every want with personalized services that are second to none.

Pros

Chic and modern design

Stunning ocean views

Balcony jacuzzis

Moroccan metal latticework

Cons

Not for the budget-friendly crowd

Food and drink can be pricey

Best For Great Beachside Location

Shoreline Hotel Waikiki

This 135-room hotel blends a daytime atmosphere of warm, bright, and airy with a night-time vibe of cool and electric, taking inspiration from the striking beauty of the Hawaiian landscape and Waikiki energy throughout.

This tropical boutique hotel boasts a colorful lobby, comfy accommodations, and a rooftop pool, and it gives a Hawaii vacation a modern and eclectic twist.

The onsite lobby-level restaurant, Heavenly Island Lifestyle, serves a fully-equipped menu featuring local, sustainably sourced ingredients, giving guests a chance to enjoy the authentic taste of Hawaii.

Nature meets neon at this gracious property, which boasts ocean, mountain, and city skyline views across all its private balconies.

Pros

Located 5 minutes walk from Waikiki Beach

A rooftop pool

Onsite lobby-level restaurant

Stunning views from balconies

Cons

Parking is extra and a little pricey

Rooms can be small for prominent families

Small swimming pool

Best For Sea Views

Waikiki Beachcomber by Outrigger

The Beachcomber is Hawaii’s original craft hotel, which has taken inspiration from local influencers and artists to create an imaginative island vibe.

In the stylish, island-inspired rooms and luxury suites, guests feel the true spirit of aloha alongside custom furnishings and chic artwork.

The hotel’s unique personality, the perfect balance of luxury and comfort, and the fantastic ocean adventures on offer make this awe-inspiring hotel a rather memorable retreat for families, friends, and couples alike.

Whether waking up to a Kona coffee at the Hawaiian Aroma Caffe or venturing out to the artisan eateries of the local area, this Honolulu Beach Resort truly captures the spirit of Waikiki.

Pros

Modern upscale hotel

Hawaiian Aroma Caffe

Island-inspired rooms

Ocean view

Cons

Some noise from the streets

Some compact rooms

No in-room coffee machines

Best For Modern Decor

Queen Kapiolani Hotel

This indoor/outdoor oasis sits along an entire city block, with unobstructed views of Diamond Head, overlooking the infamous Kapiolai Park.

The hotel’s amenities are thoughtful expressions of the Hawaii lifestyle and natural environment. Guests can wake up to majestic Waikiki views before stepping onto their lanai to enjoy the beautiful sunrise.

The main lobby, Kapahulu Terrace, and third-floor Outdoor Living Room and pool area have all been graciously designed with a feeling of ‘welcome’ at every turn.

The spirit of the golden age of Waikiki permeates the scenic pool area, where guests can take a break from surfing and relax.

Pros

Contemporary ambiance

An outdoor living room

A scenic pool area

Stunning views

Cons

Lack of seating by the pool

No in-room microwaves

Slow elevators

Best For Boutique Accommodations

Hotel LaCroix Waikiki

Guests may invigorate their mind, body, and spirit at this Waikiki property. Hotel LaCroix features natural elements that symbolize this gorgeous island, with genuine European marble in all washrooms, volcanic state flooring throughout, and hardwood flooring across each of its 192 rooms.

The hotel elevates the guest experience through unrivaled service and the warmest aloha welcome in a seamless fusion of urban energy and natural beauty.

This newly enhanced boutique hotel is nestled between two Waikiki parks, boasting lush green space and swaying palm trees, mere steps from the ocean, and at the gateway to the many adventures in this charming beach town.

Pros

Stylish warm ambiance

Lush greenery

Unobstructed views

Private parking area

Cons

Small swimming pool

Spotty internet connection

Thin walls

Best For Couples

Hotel Renew

This dog-friendly oceanside escape appeals to the active traveler who yearns for an off-the-beaten-path retreat to relax.

The peaceful guestrooms are the ideal spot to find your zen, and all feature modern tropical designer details, exercise equipment, state-of-the-art amenities, and stunning Pacific Ocean views.

Moreover, illy espresso and coffee machines are placed in each room, serving the smoothest high-quality coffee. For those who pass by on a Saturday, complimentary yoga experiences are offered in the park with trained instructors.

The textured white oak and mid-century furnishings, which ornate the rooms, create dreamlike spaces to recharge and rest. This Honolulu hotel is the perfect sanctuary for the discerning heart.

Pros

Contemporary interior

State-of-the-art amenities

Free weekend yoga classes

Pacific Ocean views

Cons

Temperamental AC

No room service

No microwave in the room

Best For Luxury

Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach

For those seeking a refreshing blend of a lively, urban location with a modern oasis of serenity, Alohilani Resort provides an unsurpassed experience.

Located in the heart of Waikiki, this gorgeous, tranquil resort offers two restaurants conceived by internationally acclaimed Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto.

Guests at this resort enter with great anticipation and leave wanting to return, with a great affinity for the island’s people and culture, and always refer to Alohilani as a fresh, welcoming, and relaxing home away from home.

Boasting an open-air lobby and private cabanas surrounding a saltwater infinity pool, Alohilani is where visitors turn moments into memories.

Pros

Modern trendy design

A saltwater infinity pool

Two onsite restaurants

An open-air lobby

Cons

No in-room refrigerators

No in-room microwaves

No daily housekeeping

Best For Onsite Dining

The Modern Honolulu By Diamond Resorts

The Modern Honolulu lives up to its name. This sophisticated, sleek hotel boasts a unique vibe, ideal for the urban traveler who likes to mix business with pleasure.

With a vibrant night scene, intimate pool settings, delicious gourmet pleasures, and two sprawling swimming pools, guests are treated to endless opportunities for relaxation.

The hip accommodations feature views of the ocean or city and come decked out with custom furniture, teak window screens, huge showers, and terrazzo countertops.

All that Oahu has to offer, be that luxury shopping, gorgeous beaches, and serene nature, is blended to create a feeling of great vibes and luxury.

The study-in-white design, topped with sleek minimalism, extends into every room and suite, which beautifully absorbs natural sunlight from outside.

Pros

Sleek contemporary interior

Two onsite swimming pools

Three onsite bars and world-class restaurant

Stunning views

Cons

No room service

Noisy elevators

Small swimming pool

Best For Infinity Pool

The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach Hotel

A luxury experience awaits at this stunning hotel, which boasts the highest infinity pool in Waikiki. Each vacation rental features an ocean view, with separate living spaces, high-end enough to transform your vacation into an immersion in Honolulu’s vibrant culture.

Looking out over the magical point where the cerulean sky and ocean meet, surrounded by fragrant flowers and lush greenery, this hotel truly offers a one-of-a-kind experience.

In terms of dining, this hotel celebrates local flavors, blended with renowned eating experiences from around the globe.

La Vie restaurant serves Modern French cuisine, while the 16-seat sushi restaurant offers an oriental twist, and gourmet foods and wine are offered at Dean & De Luca. There is an option for everybody here at the Ritz-Carlton Residences.

Pros

Luxurious sleek hotel

Onsite sushi restaurant

Highest infinity pool

Modern French cuisine

Cons

No full-service spa

A bit pricey

Best For Spa and Wellness

Halepuna Waikiki by Halekulani

Refined simplicity is a core feature of this sanctuary of serenity, tucked neatly into the center of Waikiki. Known for impeccable attention to detail and warm, personalized service, it is no surprise that this hotel was recognized by Conde Nast Traveler’s 2021 Readers Choice Awards.

Here, guests are treated to a sparkling wine welcome and $25 per day of resort credit. On the 8th floor, the Urban Escape boasts its very own private haven, with exclusive amenity features, including an infinity lap pool, lounge, and hot tub, all in the sanctuary of a private relaxation garden.

The elegant guestrooms and suites boast well-appointed furnishings in color palettes of white, beige, grey, and blue, topped off with inspiring views of the Pacific.

Pros

Contemporary bright rooms

An infinity lap pool

Panoramic views

A chocolate-viewing kitchen

Cons

Some noise on the weekends

Pricey valet parking

Swimming pool closes early

Best For Families

Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel

A quirky blend of calm swimming areas for families on one side and a surfers’ haven on the other, the Aston offers stunning amenities and views for all its visitors.

The hotel is situated just a short stroll from Kapahulu Avenue, where guests can enjoy the finest unique eateries of the region. The 645 guestrooms are decorated in a vibrant, tropical style, offering a private lanai and breathtaking ocean views.

On one side of the hotel, Diamond Head rises majestically, while, on the other, the legendary Waikiki Beach stretches out before your eyes.

The Tiki’s Grill & Bar on the 3rd floor is a perfect hangout spot with an authentic Hawaiian atmosphere, boasting live entertainment, an outdoor sunset terrace, and locally sourced delicacies.

Pros

Beachfront hotel with family rooms

The Tiki's Grill & Bar

An outdoor sunset terrace

A poolside bar

Cons

Small swimming pool

No in-room microwaves

No self-parking facility

Best For Pet-friendly Stay

Prince Waikiki

The Prince Waikiki boasts a beautifully artful design and a luxurious vibe that radiates into all of the contemporary accommodations onsite.

The thoughtfully designed rooms all face the harbor and ocean and offer that kind of sweeping views that turn a trip into a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Mesmerizing sunsets can be enjoyed from the signature 5th-floor pool deck, which compliments the saltwater pools and personalized poolside service.

Award-winning local dining experiences are on offer, with fresh island cuisine and refreshing poolside cocktails adding the signature Hawaii ambiance to your stay.

Guests can also explore the most extensive bespoke, contemporary art collection, created by Hawaii artists in Waikiki.

Pros

Ocean-themed interior design

A 5th-floor pool deck

Saltwater swimming pools

Onsite fresh island cuisine

Cons

Loud poolside music

Pricey breakfast and dinner

Under-equipped gym

Best For Budget-friendly Stay

White Sands Hotel

Boasting renovated rooms with lanais and cool island colors, each refreshing accommodation embodies the inspiring spirit of Waikiki.

Guests can run their fingers over the many island-inspired textures, get lost in the vibrant color palette, or kick back under swaying palms.

Surrounded by verdant mountains, crystalline waters, and rugged hiking areas, there is so much to explore on the periphery of the hotel before falling into the rhythm of the island and the tropical fever that captivated the world.

Understated elegance is blended perfectly with the vibrant Hawaiian style, allowing visitors to experience the essence of old Waikiki without sacrificing the convenience and comfort of modern times.

Pros

Reasonable room rates for location

Authentic Hawaiian cuisine

Heyday circular bamboo bar

Hiking tracks nearby

Cons

Thin walls

No elevators available

Small shower cubicle

Accessing Luxurious Cool Hotels in Honolulu

The following table compares the top 15 cool and trendy hotels in Honolulu based on a range of factors, including prices, facilities, and more:

Hotel NameLocationPrice Range (per night)Fitness FacilitiesDistance to Attractions (km)Nearby Restaurants
The Laylow, Autograph Collection2299 Kuhio Avenue$342-$748Yes1.93
The Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club412 Lewers Street$362-$669No1.93
Espacio The Jewel of Waikiki2452 Kalakaua Avenue$5544-$11206No1.93
Shoreline Hotel Waikiki342 Seaside Avenue$269-$759No23
Waikiki Beachcomber by Outrigger2300 Kalakaua Avenue$397-$1295Yes1.53
Queen Kapiolani Hotel150 Kapahulu Avenue$394-$1388Yes2.33
Hotel LaCroix Waikiki2070 Kalakaua Avenue$256-$551Yes1.63
Hotel Renew129 Paoakalani Avenue$247-$353No2.23
Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach2490 Kalakaua Avenue$426-$738Yes1.93
The Modern Honolulu By Diamond Resorts1775 Ala Moana Boulevard$377-$677Yes2.23
The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach Hotel383 Kalaimoku Street$1320-$3946Yes1.83
Halepuna Waikiki by Halekulani2233 Helumoa Road$457-$569Yes1.83
Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel2570 Kalakaua Avenue, Waikiki$356-$617Yes2.23
Prince Waikiki100 Holomoana Street$381-$1026Yes2.13
White Sands Hotel431 Nohonani Street$297-$523No1.93