When most people think of Hawaii, they probably have the beautiful island of Oahu in mind. As the commercial hub of the Hawaiian chain, Oahu is home to the state capital Honolulu, historic Pearl Harbor, the North Shore surfing epicenter, and legendary Waikiki Beach. With so much to offer, it’s no wonder it’s the most visited Hawaiian island.
If you’re ready to plan your next trip to this incredible Hawaiian destination, you’ve come to the right place. This list of amazing boutique hotels on Oahu was hand-picked to provide you with the best of the best, meaning you can choose the right one with confidence.
Whether you’re looking for your next dream vacation, or you’re planning a trip for the whole family, read on to learn more about the best places to stay on Oahu!
Kaimana Beach Hotel
Located between Waikiki and Diamond Head Beach Park, Kaimana Beach Hotel is esteemed for its easy-going Hawaiian atmosphere. Originally named Sans Souci (“without cares”), Kaimana Beach treats guests with a perfect beachfront property to suit a purely barefoot lifestyle. Simply sip rosé and relax on the beach, or rent a surfboard from the resort and let your inner thrill seeker loose.
This may be one of the original boutique hotels on Oahu, know of another that pre-dates this one?
Kaimana Beach also has an on-site beachfront restaurant serving some of the finest tropical fare that Hawaii has to offer, The Hau Tree Lanai. For day trips outside of the resort, nearby you’ll also find the famous Waikiki Aquarium, the KCC Farmers Market, and the Honolulu Zoo. Looking to get some shopping done? Be sure to check out the International Marketplace and the Kahala Mall as well. Wherever you go during your stay, you surely won’t be disappointed with Kaimana Beach.
The Laylow, Autograph Collection – Waikiki
I have personally stayed at this hotel and have a detailed write up along with a video that walks you through the entire hotel.
Laylow Waikiki lives up to its name. Located in the heart of Waikiki, this 4-star boutique hotel treats guests with stylish rooms, low-key furniture, valet service, and tons of additional amenities. While this is one of the more trendy hotels on our list, they make you feel the aloha spirit from the time of your arrival to your eventual departure. With a cerulean blue outdoor pool to enjoy, fire pits to sit around with family and friends, a fitness center, and a lush garden lanai, Laylow Waikiki is all about making its guests feel comfortable.
Many online chatrooms and travel groups rate this as one of the best boutique hotels in Oahu.
Its location in downtown Waikiki also makes it a prime spot for enjoying the city’s nightlife. Along Kuhio Avenue, you’ll discover plenty of delectable spots for ethnic food, adult beverages, hole-in-the-wall eateries, and a handful of nightclubs. During the day, you’ll also be able to take advantage of Kalakaua Avenue and Waikiki Beach, which are both just a block away.
White Sands Hotel
I have personally stayed at this hotel, in addition to the video review above you can read my detailed review here.
The newly renovated White Sands Hotel boasts Hawaiian elegance without breaking the budget. Similarly located in downtown Waikiki, this boutique hotel is just a short walk away from the beach, along with several restaurants, shopping centers, and nightlife venues. Although the hotel was recently renovated, White Sands offers an old-world charm, so you can experience the essence of old Waikiki without sacrificing modern-day comforts.
Each room is decorated with classic tropical textures and a warm, pleasing color palette. You can also take advantage of a few relaxing pool days by grabbing a few mai tais at the poolside tiki bar. Outside of the hotel, go on a hike to check out the nearby Manoa Falls, head off for a whale-watching excursion, go snorkeling with the sea turtles, or check out the Ho’omaluhia Botanical Gardens.
Halepuna Waikiki
Voted Hawaii’s best hotel in 2021 by Conde Nast Traveler’s Reader’s Choice Award, Halepuna is definitely a hideaway of pure serenity. Tucked amongst downtown Waikiki, Halepuna is highly regarded for its incredible attention to detail and superior, personalized service. Everything they do is meant to make you feel like royalty, so you can relax and throw away your worries for the entire duration of your stay.
Across the street is its “sister” property the Halekulani Hotel, one of the top luxury hotels on Oahu. The Halepuna is the newest of the best boutique hotels on Oahu.
Enjoy spending time by the pool or in their beautiful and lush relaxation garden. Every room is decorated with a cool blue and beige color scheme, guaranteed to give you some of the most relaxing vibes anywhere on the island. Each of the guest rooms and suites also offer stunning views of the city or the beach; there’s simply not a bad view in the entire hotel. Additionally, each morning you can enjoy baked artisan breads, pastries, and coffees at the Halekulani Bakery & Restaurant as you prepare for each fun-filled day.
Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach
I have personally stayed and reviewed this hotel, you can read my detailed review and also watch the video for more information.
Overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Alohilani Resort is undoubtedly a one-of-a-kind destination. You’ll not only have unrivaled views of the ocean to watch the surfers catch cresting waves, but you’ll also be able to see beautiful sunset colors cascading across the face of Diamond Head in the distance. If you’re looking for absolutely stunning views, Alohilani is a perfect option, as not every hotel can claim gorgeous unobstructed beach views.
The resort also offers surfboard and paddle board rentals, in addition to a full-scale gym and spa, available for guests to enjoy for free. You’ll also delight in their vibrant pool deck, complete with private cabanas, day beds, and more! If you are traveling with kids you may want to consider the Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa next door for its larger pool deck. From the moment you walk into the lobby, you’ll also be surprised to see a 280,000 gallon Oceanarium, filled with tropical fish of all kinds.
The Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club
Looking for something even a little more low-key? Be sure to check out Surfjack, a boutique hotel geared toward artists, makers, dreamers, and do-ers. Surfjack has also received several awards and accolades by Condé Nast Traveler, TripAdvisor, and Jetsetter. This youthful and vibrant hotel is both unique in its atmosphere and its offerings.
Surfjack has truly perfected the resort lifestyle without seeming too posh. Its laid-back environment is one that tries to capture the old-soul of Waikiki without losing the comfort that a Hawaiian resort should offer. Expect to enjoy lazy days by the pool, by the beach, or in the heart of downtown dining in some of the finest restaurants around. Surfjack offers a resort experience unlike any other, and for that reason it stands out as a great option for guests looking to enjoy something a little more alternative to the usual Waikiki experience.
Have you stayed at any of these hotels? Leave a comment of your experience below so the next traveler can benefit. See you in Lobby!
