Best Places To Stay In Hawaii: A Comprehensive List of Hotels in Hawaii

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There is certainly no shortage of hotels, Airbnb’s, and other accommodations in Hawaii, but where are the best places to stay in Hawaii? We’ve taken the time to put together a list of some of the most affordable and practical places where you can stay in Hawaii when holiday-ing here.

Fair warning, this post is very long and is ever-evolving, so please do skip to sections that you’re interested in using the table of contents. Enjoy!

Where to stay in Hawaii

Below you’ll find a brief description of each island and a list of places to stay.

Koko Head Oahu Houses in Hawaii

Best places to stay in hawaii: The big list

Oahu

Also called the Gathering Place, is the most popular island in Hawaii. It is also the most populated. When visiting Oahu, most guests stay in Waikiki, which is known for its famous beaches.

Waikiki has accommodations to fit every budget. When staying in Waikiki, a car is not necessary. You can walk to the beach, shops and restaurants. If you need transportation, the bus system is excellent. There are many sites to visit on Oahu. Two of the more popular attractions are Pearl Harbor and the Polynesian Cultural Center.

Another area that guests like to stay is on the North Shore. This area is a favorite with surfers. The beaches on the North Shore are famous for their large waves.

The area is much more quiet than Waikiki and has little to offer in the form of shops and restaurants. Guests who stay here are usually returning guests to Oahu and are looking for something different than the usual Waikiki accommodations.

wakiki best places to stay

Waikiki

Turtle Bay

big island kona

The Big Island (Kona)

The Big Island of Hawaii (sometimes referred to as Kona, for the Kona side of the Island) is a great choice for the repeat visitor who is looking for a new, unique Hawaiian experience. The Big Island is known for its Volcanoes and outdoor activities. The two distinct vacation areas on the western side of the Big Island of Hawaii are Kailua-Kona and Waikoloa.

Kailua-Kona is home to a variety of local restaurants, grocery stores, and tourist activities which are mostly located on or near the waterfront of Kailua Bay. The large assortment of waterfront shops combined with the restaurants has made this a popular tourist area. Accommodations in Kailua-Kona are generally less expensive than in Waikoloa.

The Kohala Coast is home to the newer resort areas of Waikoloa and Mauna Lani. The Kings Village Shopping Center has a variety of shopping and dining options. This deluxe area is perfect for the upscale traveler. If you want to golf, this is the area to visit!

Waikoloa and Mauna Lani

(Kohala Coast)

Kona

(including Keauhou and Kailua)

Hilo

napili bay maui

Maui

Maui is the perfect vacation choice for travelers looking for the traditional Hawaii vacation that includes visits to the pool and beach combined with world-class restaurants and outdoor activities.

Maui has three distinct vacation destinations: Kaanapali, Kihei, and Wailea. Each area has different vacation benefits to offer.

Kaanapali

(including Lahaina, Napili and Kapalua)

Kauai

The island of Kauai is a great choice for visitor who is looking for a more relaxed, scenic setting. The island is known as the garden island.

There are three distinct vacation areas on Kauai: Wailua/Kapaa, Poipu, and Princeville. The Wailua/Kapaa area has the most shopping and restaurants. The Poipu area is world-famous for its’ beaches and golf courses. The Princeville area is perfect if you desire an upscale, quiet resort destination with golf and tennis.

Molokai

The Island of Molokai is for the experienced traveler looking for old Hawaii. There is no public transportation and a rental car is required. Molokai is known for its’ outdoor activities and uncrowded lifestyle.

Lanai

The Island of Lanai is known as the Private Island. We represent both resort hotel accommodations on the Island. The Island is perfect for guests looking for a unique and exclusive vacation.

There are many different activities to do in Lanai including water sports, horseback riding, clay shooting, hiking as well as championship golf courses and excellent pools and beaches! Please note there are no condominiums on the Island of Lanai.

Final Thoughts on the best places to stay in hawaii

There are plenty of amazing places to stay on these beautiful islands and there’s something for everyone.

Whether you’re traveling for business, as a family, a couple, solo, or to meet friends, you’ll find an appropriate place to stay in Hawaii for you and your needs.

Safe travels!

Hi! My name is Benjamin and I am the owner of How to Live in Hawaii! I love researching and writing about how to move, work, have fun, and live in Hawaii!

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