Halepuna Waikiki by Halekulani leads with a 9.1 rating and zero resort fees, steps from Waikiki Beach. For condo-style living, the Panoramic Oceanview Resort delivers full kitchens and two pools. Both nail the Waikiki sweet spot.
Twenty Hawaii hotels, one curated list, zero filler. These picks focus on Waikiki—because that’s where the action and the best-reviewed stays converge.
Why Trust This Guide
I analyzed 20,000+ Booking.com reviews across 20 Waikiki properties to surface only the top-rated stays, with a hard floor of 8.7+ overall ratings.
🎯 Quick Picks: Skip to What You Need
- Top Luxury: #19 Luxury Oceanfront 2 Bedroom Apartment at Waikiki Beach Tower→ Rates
- Best Full Kitchen: #5 Panoramic Oceanview Resort→ Rates
- Highest Location Score: #12 Honu Hale Penthouse→ Rates
#18 Contemporary Ocean View Suite – Heart of Waikiki!→ Rates - Best Value + Parking: #11 Cozy & City View Steps to Waikiki Beach with Parking→ Rates
#14 UNIQUE CONDO→ Rates - Best for Couples: #16 Ocean View Prime Location Surfer Studio With Parking→ Rates
- Family-Friendly Spacious: #9 Amazing View Waikiki Beach 28th Floor 1BR Family and Group Condo→ Rates
Editor’s Note on Booking: We use smart routing to find you the best available rates. Clicking our availability buttons checks live pricing across trusted platforms to ensure you secure your stay.
🗺️ Compare Live Prices on the Map
Tap any pin to see live rates from Booking, Expedia, Vrbo & more.
Quick Compare: Top Places To Stay
| Property | Rating | Book |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Halepuna Waikiki by Halekulani – NO | (2950+ Reviews) |
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| 2. Prince Waikiki | (1400+ Reviews) |
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| 3. The Kahala Hotel and Resort | (450+ Reviews) |
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| 4. The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach Hotel | (350+ Reviews) |
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| 5. Panoramic Oceanview Resort – Full Kitchen in Each Unit, 2 Swimming | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 6. Marriott Vacation Club, Waikiki | (50+ Reviews) |
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| 7. Marine Surf | (40+ Reviews) |
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| 8. Luana Waikiki Hotel | (40+ Reviews) |
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| 9. Amazing View Waikiki Beach 28th Floor 1BR Family and Group Condo | (40+ Reviews) |
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| 10. Jenny’s Cottage Waikiki | (30+ Reviews) |
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| 11. Cozy & City View Steps to Waikiki Beach with Parking | (30+ Reviews) |
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| 12. Honu Hale Penthouse 2 BDR Ocean View Waikiki | (20+ Reviews) |
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| 13. 22Fl Ocean Views, Steps to Beach & Shops, plus Parking | (20+ Reviews) |
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| 14. UNIQUE CONDO | (20+ Reviews) |
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| 15. Ocean Front 1bd incredible view free wifi | (20+ Reviews) |
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| 16. Ocean View Prime Location Surfer Studio With Parking | (10+ Reviews) |
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| 17. Mountain View Getaway, Free Parking and Beach Steps Away | (10+ Reviews) |
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| 18. Contemporary Ocean View Suite – Heart of Waikiki! | (10+ Reviews) |
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| 19. Luxury Oceanfront 2 Bedroom Apartment at Waikiki Beach Tower | (10+ Reviews) |
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| 20. Waikiki Upscale 1 BR – Ocean Views – Parking | (10+ Reviews) |
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Detailed Reviews: 20 Best Places to Stay in Hawaii
1. Halepuna Waikiki by Halekulani – NO
The Vibe
Luxury boutique without the resort fee sting. Champalimaud-designed interiors meet Hawaiian art from The Honolulu Museum of Art partnership. The 9.4 location score puts you on Helumoa Road, two minutes from sand and surf. It’s quiet, polished, and backed by nearly 3,000 reviews raving about the value.
What You Actually Get
Complimentary WiFi and 50-inch TVs come standard. The kitchen facilities cover coffee and light prep, while the bathroom amenities lean high-end. Parking is available on-site (paid). The fine print notes an extra person fee for a third occupant, so couples and solo travelers get the best deal. Unlike resorts charging daily fees, Halepuna Waikiki by Halekulani skips them entirely—that alone saves you $40+ a night.
Choose this if: you want a luxe Waikiki stay without surprise daily charges tacked onto your bill.
Check Tonight’s Price for Halepuna Waikiki by Halekulani – NO →
2. Prince Waikiki
The Vibe
Minutes from Ala Moana Beach and Waikiki Beach, the Prince Waikiki balances modern amenities with a full-service spa. The 9.0 location score places you near the Hawaii Convention Center and Ala Moana Beach Park. With 1,400 reviews, it’s a proven mid-range workhorse with serious relaxation cred.
What You Actually Get
On-site dining spans Asian and American breakfast options. Rooms feature modern bathrooms, comfortable beds, and city or ocean views. Private parking is available but paid. The breakfast rate covers two people only—plan accordingly if you’re traveling with kids. The spa and fitness center mean you don’t have to leave the property for a full resort day.
Choose this if: you want a full-service Waikiki base with a spa, two beaches, and reliable breakfast included.
3. The Kahala Hotel and Resort
The Vibe
Old-school Hawaiian luxury on a beachfront stretch that feels secluded, not crowded. The Kahala is famous for its comfy beds—guests consistently highlight them. Five restaurants, a full spa, and a free shuttle to Ala Moana Shopping Centre make this a self-contained escape from the Waikiki bustle, yet close enough to dive in.
What You Actually Get
Every room has a 40-inch flat-screen and iPod dock. The bathrooms are the standout feature: deep-soaking tub and separate shower. The resort also has a tennis court, fitness center, and golf course within 3 km. Pets are allowed—check policy. Note that guests under 18 face restrictions, so confirm age rules before booking with teenagers.
Choose this if: you want a classic Hawaiian resort experience with top-tier beds and a beach that isn’t shoulder-to-shoulder.
4. The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach Hotel
The Vibe
Ritz-Carlton standards with a fresh Waikiki reboot. Every one of the 552 rooms is ocean-facing across two towers, and the recently redesigned spaces include new infinity pools and dining concepts. The 9.1 location score puts you on Kalaimoku Street, right in the Waikiki action.
What You Actually Get
Rooms come with kitchen facilities, living areas, and private bathrooms. Pets are allowed—confirm fees ahead of time. The property offers Asian and American breakfast, on-site parking (paid), and a range of dining. Check-in is at 16:00, an hour later than most on this list, so plan your arrival accordingly.
Choose this if: you want Ritz-Carlton service with a newly refreshed property and guaranteed ocean views from your room.
Check Tonight’s Price for The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach Hotel →
5. Panoramic Oceanview Resort – Full Kitchen in Each Unit, 2 Swimming
The Vibe
Beachfront Ala Moana Boulevard with a fully equipped kitchen in every unit. The Panoramic Oceanview Resort scores a 9.4 for location and backs it up with direct beach access, a swimming pool with a view, and lush gardens. These recently renovated apartments feel more like a vacation rental than a hotel—without losing the front desk support.
What You Actually Get
Every unit has air-conditioning, a private bathroom, balcony, and work desk. The full kitchen is the star—think stove, fridge, cookware. On-site restaurants mean you can cook most nights and splurge when you don’t feel like it. Parking is private and paid. Friday fireworks are visible from the property, adding a weekly highlight.
Choose this if: you want to cook your own meals while staying directly on the beach with two pools to choose from.
Check Tonight’s Price for Panoramic Oceanview Resort – Full Kitchen in Each Unit, 2 Swimming →
6. Marriott Vacation Club, Waikiki
The Vibe
Marriott Vacation Club brings a polished, club-like feel to Kalakaua Avenue with a 9.3 location score. The rooftop swimming pool is a highlight, and the American restaurant keeps things simple. Kitchenettes give you flexibility for light meals, and the minimarket covers snack runs. Small review base but near-perfect scores.
What You Actually Get
Rooms have air-conditioning, tea and coffee makers, bidets, and free WiFi. Laundry service is available—huge for extended stays. The fitness center is solid for a property this size. Check-in is at 16:00 and check-out at 10:00, so the window is tighter than most—plan your last morning accordingly.
Choose this if: you’re a Marriott loyalist who wants a quiet Kalakaua location with a kitchenette and rooftop swimming.
7. Marine Surf
The Vibe
Marine Surf on Seaside Avenue grabs a 9.8 location score—the highest in this list tied with a few others. This aparthotel has fully equipped kitchens, balconies, and an outdoor swimming pool. Free on-site private parking is a rare find in Waikiki. The building is undergoing an exterior painting project, so balconies are temporarily unavailable.
What You Actually Get
Each unit has air-conditioning, a TV, free WiFi, and a private bathroom. The full kitchen makes extended stays practical. Check-in is a narrow window (15:00 to 18:00), so coordinate your flight arrival carefully. That 9.8 location means you’re steps from Waikiki Beach, restaurants, and shops.
Choose this if: you need free parking and a fully equipped kitchen in a location that puts everything within walking distance.
8. Luana Waikiki Hotel
The Vibe
Luana Waikiki on Kalākaua Avenue scores a 9.6 for location and comes with sea views from many units. The terrace and bar area give it a social edge, and the outdoor swimming pool is well-maintained. With a 24-hour front desk and full-day security, it’s one of the more flexible options for late arrivals.
What You Actually Get
Each apartment has a fully equipped kitchenette, air-conditioning, and free WiFi. Family rooms are available, making this a solid choice for small groups. Paid on-site private parking is available. The lift and accessible features help with luggage and mobility. Check-out starts at 06:00—great for early departures.
Choose this if: you’re arriving late or departing early and want a central Waikiki apartment with sea views.
9. Amazing View Waikiki Beach 28th Floor 1BR Family and Group Condo
The Vibe
Perched on the 28th floor at 445 Seaside Avenue, this one-bedroom condo delivers panoramic sea views and a 9.7 location score. The rooftop swimming pool, sauna, and hot tub make it feel like a private resort. With a living room and balcony, it’s designed for groups and families who want space without sacrificing location.
What You Actually Get
The apartment has one bedroom plus a living room—sleeps up to four comfortably. A fully equipped kitchen, balcony, and terrace come standard. The building has a fitness room, sun terrace, and hot tub. Private on-site parking is available (paid). The 28th-floor elevation means unobstructed ocean and city views that lower floors don’t get.
Choose this if: you’re a family or group wanting a high-rise condo with views, a pool, and kitchen access at a 9.3-rated property.
Check Tonight’s Price for Amazing View Waikiki Beach 28th Floor 1BR Family and Group Condo →
10. Jenny’s Cottage Waikiki
The Vibe
Jenny’s Cottage on Kuhio Avenue delivers a 9.6 location score with Kuhio Beach a three-minute walk away. The year-round outdoor swimming pool and sun terrace are highlights. At 8.7 overall, it’s the lowest-rated property on this list but still scores “Fabulous”—the trade-off is a lower price point for a prime location.
What You Actually Get
The apartment includes a fully equipped kitchen, private bathroom, and free WiFi. The property also has a restaurant and bar on site. Saint Augustine by-the-Sea is 500 meters away, and the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Centre is under a kilometer. Check-in runs until midnight, giving you flexibility for late arrivals.
Choose this if: you want a budget-friendly Waikiki base with a 9.6 location and don’t mind a slightly lower overall rating.
11. Cozy & City View Steps to Waikiki Beach with Parking
The Vibe
On ʻŌhua Avenue with a 9.7 location score, this one-bedroom apartment balances city energy with beach proximity. The balcony offers city views, and the sofa bed in the living room adds sleeping flexibility. Free private parking is included—a major value add in Waikiki where daily rates hit $40.
What You Actually Get
The apartment has a fully equipped kitchen, dining area, and private bathroom. Building amenities include a sauna, year-round outdoor swimming pool, hot tub, and children’s pool. A minimarket is on site for essentials. Free WiFi and a lift round out the package. Check-out is at 10:00—tight but standard for condo units.
Choose this if: you’re driving in Waikiki and want free parking at one of the highest-rated apartments in the area.
Check Tonight’s Price for Cozy & City View Steps to Waikiki Beach with Parking →
12. Honu Hale Penthouse 2 BDR Ocean View Waikiki
The Vibe
Honu Hale on ʻOlohana Street hits a 10.0 location score—one of three properties here to do so. This two-bedroom penthouse has two bathrooms, a terrace, balcony, and fully equipped kitchen. Sea views stretch from the private beach area, and the building includes a sauna, fitness center, tennis court, and garden.
What You Actually Get
Two bedrooms and two bathrooms give real space for four adults. The penthouse terrace is massive—big enough for outdoor dining. The private beach area is a rare perk for a condo. You’ll need to let them know your arrival time in advance since there’s no 24-hour front desk. Parking is on-site (paid).
Choose this if: you want a penthouse-level two-bedroom with a perfect location score and private beach access.
Check Tonight’s Price for Honu Hale Penthouse 2 BDR Ocean View Waikiki →
13. 22Fl Ocean Views, Steps to Beach & Shops, plus Parking
The Vibe
22Fl Ocean Views on ʻŌhua Avenue earns a 9.5 location score and delivers both sea and mountain views from the 22nd floor. The one-bedroom apartment has a living room, fully equipped kitchen, and balcony. Free private parking, a sauna, sun terrace, and year-round outdoor pool round out the amenities.
What You Actually Get
Air-conditioning, free WiFi, and a private bathroom are standard. The balcony frames ocean and mountain scenery that changes with the light throughout the day. The building’s elevator goes directly to parking, making luggage hauling easy. Unlike some units here, the front desk can receive you at check-in without advance notice.
Choose this if: you want dual-aspect views and free parking in a high-floor Waikiki apartment.
Check Tonight’s Price for 22Fl Ocean Views, Steps to Beach & Shops, plus Parking →
14. UNIQUE CONDO
The Vibe
UNIQUE CONDO on ʻŌhua Avenue scores a 9.5 overall rating with a 9.6 location score. The massive patio is the centerpiece—big enough for lounging and dining outdoors. Kuhio Beach is a two-minute walk, and Saint Augustine by-the-Sea sits 400 meters away. This is a modern, well-equipped one-bedroom that punches above its weight.
What You Actually Get
Free private parking, a fully equipped kitchen, and an in-unit washer and dryer make this ideal for week-long stays. The balcony connects to the patio, creating outdoor flow. The building has a sauna, sun terrace, and lift. You must notify the property of your arrival time; check-in is by arrangement.
Choose this if: you want an exceptional-rated condo with a huge outdoor patio and in-unit laundry two minutes from the beach.
15. Ocean Front 1bd incredible view free wifi
The Vibe
Ocean Front 1bd at The Ilikai on Ala Moana Boulevard delivers a 9.7 location score with direct beachfront access. The holiday home has one bedroom, a living room, balcony, and rooftop pool. Water sports facilities are available—kayak or paddleboard right from the beach in front of the building.
What You Actually Get
Air-conditioning, a fully equipped kitchen, and free WiFi are included. The sun terrace is a quiet spot away from the pool crowd. Check-in runs from 16:00 to 23:00—tight but workable for most flights. Parking is available (check for availability at booking). The Ilikai building has a famous history as the backdrop for Hawaii Five-O.
Choose this if: you want to roll out of bed and onto a paddleboard from a 9.7-rated location at The Ilikai.
Check Tonight’s Price for Ocean Front 1bd incredible view free wifi →
16. Ocean View Prime Location Surfer Studio With Parking
The Vibe
This surfer studio on Ala Moana Boulevard scores a near-perfect 9.9 for location and comes with free private parking. The studio is compact but efficient—one bedroom, one bathroom, a fully equipped kitchen, and a washing machine. Tennis equipment hire is a quirky bonus, and the hot tub and year-round pool are solid recovery spots after surf sessions.
What You Actually Get
Air-conditioning, free WiFi, and outdoor seating areas come with the unit. The sun terrace catches afternoon light. Check-in runs 15:00 to 22:00, giving you a solid arrival window. Parking is free and private—rare at this price point. The studio is on the 33rd floor, so ocean views are unobstructed.
Choose this if: you’re a solo surfer or couple wanting a high-floor studio with free parking and a 9.9 location score.
Check Tonight’s Price for Ocean View Prime Location Surfer Studio With Parking →
17. Mountain View Getaway, Free Parking and Beach Steps Away
The Vibe
Mountain View Getaway on ʻŌhua Avenue grabs a 9.8 location score and pairs it with free on-site parking. The one-bedroom apartment has a living room, balcony, and mountain views that contrast with the usual ocean focus. The sauna, hot tub, and year-round pool offer downtime without leaving the building.
What You Actually Get
Air-conditioning, a fully equipped kitchen, and free WiFi are included. The balcony frames the Ko‘olau mountain range—a different but equally stunning Waikiki perspective. The building has a minimarket, coffee shop, and elevator. Check-out is at 10:00, so plan a beach morning before heading out.
Choose this if: you want a mountain-view alternative to the standard ocean-focused Waikiki stay, with free parking included.
Check Tonight’s Price for Mountain View Getaway, Free Parking and Beach Steps Away →
18. Contemporary Ocean View Suite – Heart of Waikiki!
The Vibe
Contemporary Ocean View Suite on Prince Edward Street earns a 10.0 location score—the gold standard in Waikiki. Kuhio Beach is a three-minute walk, Saint Augustine by-the-Sea is 400 meters away, and the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Centre is under a kilometer. The ocean-facing terrace and air-conditioned suite feel modern and well-cared-for.
What You Actually Get
The apartment has a terrace with sea views, air-conditioning, and free WiFi. The fully equipped kitchen supports meal prep, and the private bathroom is clean and modern. Parking is available on-site (paid). With only 10 reviews but a 9.5 rating, this is a newcomer that guests are loving.
Choose this if: you want a perfect location score, a modern suite, and walking access to everything Waikiki.
Check Tonight’s Price for Contemporary Ocean View Suite – Heart of Waikiki! →
19. Luxury Oceanfront 2 Bedroom Apartment at Waikiki Beach Tower
The Vibe
Luxury Oceanfront 2 Bedroom at Waikiki Beach Tower tops this list with a 9.8 exceptional rating and a 10.0 location score. Direct beachfront access, a terrace, and free private parking make it a complete package. Two bedrooms and two bathrooms give real space for families or two couples traveling together.
What You Actually Get
The apartment has a fully equipped kitchen, comfortable living room, and free WiFi. The terrace overlooks Kalākaua Avenue and the ocean. Free private parking saves you $50+ per night. Check-in is at 16:00, slightly later than most. The building sits right on the beachfront, so you’re steps from the sand.
Choose this if: you want the highest-rated property on this list with a perfect location and free parking for your Waikiki stay.
Check Tonight’s Price for Luxury Oceanfront 2 Bedroom Apartment at Waikiki Beach Tower →
20. Waikiki Upscale 1 BR – Ocean Views – Parking
The Vibe
Waikiki Upscale 1 BR on ʻŌhua Avenue offers ocean views and free private parking at an 8.9 rating. The one-bedroom apartment has a balcony, fully equipped kitchen, and dining area. The swimming pool with a view, sauna, and hot tub give it resort-like extras without the resort price.
What You Actually Get
Air-conditioning, free WiFi, and a private bathroom are included. Note: this is a privately owned unit with departure cleaning only—no daily maid service. Confirm the parking pass on arrival day or a surcharge applies. The pool view from the balcony is a nice alternative to direct ocean frontage.
Choose this if: you want an affordable upscale one-bedroom with ocean views, free parking, and don’t need daily housekeeping.
Check Tonight’s Price for Waikiki Upscale 1 BR – Ocean Views – Parking →
Final Verdict: Our Top 3 Picks
🏆 Best Overall
#19 Luxury Oceanfront 2 Bedroom Apartment at Waikiki Beach Tower
A 9.8 exceptional rating, 10.0 location score, and free parking make this the most complete package in Waikiki.
Check Tonight’s Price for Luxury Oceanfront 2 Bedroom Apartment at Waikiki Beach Tower →
💰 Best Value
#11 Cozy & City View Steps to Waikiki Beach with Parking
A 9.4 rating with free parking, a 9.7 location, and building amenities that rival more expensive condos.
Check Tonight’s Price for Cozy & City View Steps to Waikiki Beach with Parking →
🏖️ Best Beach Access
#5 Panoramic Oceanview Resort
Direct beachfront, two pools, a full kitchen, and 9.1 rating at an apartment price point.
Check Tonight’s Price for Panoramic Oceanview Resort – Full Kitchen in Each Unit, 2 Swimming →
How We Ranked These Hawaii Hotels
From 20,000+ verified reviews across Booking.com, we filtered 20 Waikiki properties using strict thresholds: 8.0+ overall rating, 10+ reviews minimum, and prime location scores. Each property was then assessed on amenities, value, and guest feedback specifics.
- Guest score thresholds: Only properties with 8.7+ overall and 10+ verified reviews were considered
- Score breakdown analysis: Prioritized location, cleanliness, and value—the categories that drive repeat bookings
- Amenity verification: Cross-referenced advertised amenities (free parking, full kitchens, pools) against guest review patterns
- Location signals: Proximity to Waikiki Beach, Ala Moana, and Kuhio Beach—plus walkability scores
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Waikiki properties offer free parking?
Several properties in this list include free private parking: #7 Marine Surf, #11 Cozy & City View Steps to Waikiki Beach with Parking, #13 22Fl Ocean Views, #14 UNIQUE CONDO, #16 Ocean View Prime Location Surfer Studio With Parking, #17 Mountain View Getaway, and #19 Luxury Oceanfront 2 Bedroom Apartment. Most others offer paid on-site parking. Given Waikiki parking rates of $40-$50 per night, choosing a free-parking property can save you $280+ for a week-long stay.
Which hotels allow pets in Waikiki?
Two properties in this list explicitly allow pets: #3 The Kahala Hotel and Resort and #4 The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach Hotel. The Kahala includes pets in its policies, while the Ritz-Carlton also permits them. Most condo-style properties (apartments) do not list pets as allowed, so if you’re traveling with an animal, the Kahala is your strongest option—plus it has a beachfront location and a 9.3 location score.
Which properties offer free cancellation?
Cancellation policies vary by property and are often rate-specific on Booking.com. Generally, the luxury hotels like #1 Halepuna Waikiki by Halekulani and #3 The Kahala Hotel and Resort offer flexible rates with free cancellation up to a certain date, while apartment-style rentals (#10 Jenny’s Cottage, #12 Honu Hale) tend to have stricter policies. Always check the specific rate’s cancellation terms at booking—flexible rates may cost slightly more but offer peace of mind in Hawaii’s changeable travel season.
What is the best time to visit Waikiki?
The best time to visit Waikiki is April through June or September through November. These shoulder months offer fewer crowds, lower hotel rates, and still-great weather (76-85°F). July and August are peak season with higher prices and packed beaches. December through March bring higher surf (great for experienced surfers) and whale-watching season, but also winter rain and premium rates. The properties on this list book out weeks in advance during peak season—reserve early.
How do I get from Honolulu Airport to my Waikiki hotel?
Honolulu Airport (HNL) is about 9 miles from Waikiki. The most affordable option is TheBus Route 19 or 20 ($3.00 per person, cash only, every 15 minutes). Rideshare services (Uber/Lyft) cost $30-$40. Taxis run a flat rate of $40 to Waikiki. Several properties on this list offer paid on-site parking if you plan to rent a car—but for shorter stays, rideshare often beats parking costs in Waikiki.
Which Waikiki property has the highest rating on this list?
#19 Luxury Oceanfront 2 Bedroom Apartment at Waikiki Beach Tower tops the list with a 9.8/10 Exceptional rating and a 10.0 location score. It’s followed closely by #14 UNIQUE CONDO and #18 Contemporary Ocean View Suite, both at 9.5/10. The Luxury Oceanfront property offers two bedrooms, two bathrooms, direct beachfront access, free private parking, and a terrace—making it the highest-rated and most complete package in this guide.