Honolulu — Traveler Guide
There's something transformative about waking up to water. These waterfront hotels in Honolulu offer front-row seats to the city's most beautiful waterscapes — from river promenades and harbour panoramas to lakeside serenity.
Quick Answer
There's something transformative about waking up to water. These waterfront hotels in Honolulu offer front-row seats to the city's most beautiful waterscapes — from river promenades and harbour panoramas to lakeside serenity.
6 hotels reviewed · Price range: $$$, $$, $$$$, $ · Last updated March 2026
About This Guide
Honolulu offers exceptional options for travellers seeking waterfront hotels, and we've curated the very best. Each property has been selected for its outstanding facilities, prime location, and the quality of experience it delivers. Leading our list, Prince Waikiki excels with its exceptional attention to detail and commitment to the waterfront experience. Laylow, Autograph Collection offers a compelling alternative with its unique approach and distinctive character. Whether you're a first-time visitor to Honolulu or returning for another stay, these hotels represent the gold standard for waterfront accommodation in the city. Each has been independently evaluated for quality, location, and value.
Insider Tips
Book directly with the hotel for the best rate guarantee and potential upgrades.
Read recent guest reviews for the most up-to-date assessment of facilities.
Consider visiting during shoulder season for better rates and fewer crowds.
Ask the concierge for local recommendations — they know Honolulu better than any guidebook.
Our Picks
6 hotels · Updated February 2026
Waikiki
At the quiet Ala Wai marina end of Waikiki, the Prince offers a refined, less-crowded alternative to the beachfront strip — floor-to-ceiling harbour views from every room, a rooftop pool, and the acclaimed 100 Sails restaurant with a panoramic terrace over the boat harbour. A short walk or free shuttle takes you to the beach.
Waikiki
A sun-soaked, mid-century modernist property with a genuinely fun personality — the Hideout bar with its retro tiki aesthetic, a pool that feels more like a private club than a hotel amenity, and rooms that channel 1960s Hawaii with modern comfort. Well-priced for a well-located Waikiki stay.
Waikiki
The finest hotel in Hawaii by consistent measure — a gracious, low-rise property on Waikiki's best beachfront lot that has been setting the standard for Hawaiian luxury since 1917. The House Without a Key sunset bar is the most beautiful outdoor drinking experience in the US, and La Mer restaurant holds two AAA Five Diamond stars.
Waikiki
A slick modern tower at the quieter Diamond Head end of Waikiki with an eye-catching infinity pool terrace, the excellent Morimoto Asia restaurant by Iron Chef Morimoto, and a design sensibility that feels genuinely contemporary in a stretch of hotels that can skew dated.
Kahala
Five miles east of Waikiki, the Kahala has been the destination for presidents, royalty, and celebrities seeking complete privacy since 1964 — a 338-room resort fronting a private beach with a dolphin lagoon and arguably the most refined service in Honolulu. Its distance from Waikiki is precisely the point.
Downtown Honolulu
An all-suite property in the heart of downtown Honolulu that serves business travellers and budget-conscious visitors alike — full kitchens in every suite, complimentary continental breakfast, and rates that are far below Waikiki equivalents. The Iolani Palace and Hawaii State Art Museum are steps away.
Keep Exploring
Common Questions
Not all rooms in waterfront hotels face the water. Request a water-view room when booking, and consider upgrading if the standard room doesn't include it.
Waterfront hotels tend to be centrally located near major attractions, restaurants, and transport links, making them excellent bases for exploring.
More Destinations
Prices and availability change daily. Lock in the best rate by booking early — most of our top picks offer free cancellation.
View All Honolulu Hotels