Waikiki's Top 5 Boutique Hotels

Iconic Diamond Head Monument in Waikiki. Courtesy: Duke's OceanFest

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The Top 5 Boutique Hotels on Oahu
By Olena Heu


Oahu has long been a hotspot for visitors. With it’s pristine beaches, lush tropical mountains and broad array of activities there is never a dull moment on the island. Staying in a boutique hotel offers affordable room rates, while often off-the-beaten-path. Here are our top 5 boutique hotels worth staying at on Oahu.


1. Queen Kapiolani Hotel
On the outskirts of Waikiki, this historic hotel overlooks beautiful Kapiolani Park and is adjacent to both the Honolulu Zoo and Kuhio Beach. Recently restored, the hotel was first built in 1967 on royal lands and now offers a cool, chic, surf-friendly vibe while showcasing a splendid pool deck complete with living wall, live entertainment, delicious dining options and craft cocktails.


2. The Surfjack Hotel and Swim Club
Conveniently located moments away from Royal Hawaiian Center and the Duty Free T Galleria, The Surfjack Hotel offers an eclectic vibe of both 1960’s vintage and the aloha spirit. The Swim Club onsite showcases specialty movie premiers, pool-focused events, drinks and bites along with unique finds and specialty treats. In the heart of Waikiki this boutique hotel also invites guests to enjoy on-site experiences related to culture, crafts and education.


3. Lotus Honolulu at Diamond Head
This posh yet sophisticated hotel is secretly perched at the base of world-famous Diamond Head monument. Located directly across the street from Kapiolani Park this gem of a hotel is also steps from the beach, Waikiki Aquarium and some of the most revered surf breaks on the island. Away from the hustle and bustle of the city this hotel also offers wine service and bike rentals to explore the region’s many offerings.


4. Coconut Waikiki Hotel
Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, the Coconut Waikiki Hotel has all the comforts of home and then some. Guests are invited to relax in the hotel lobby (living room) with drinks and popcorn refreshments, communal tables for playing games, a friendly sandbox for the kids and complimentary daily breakfast. Come play oversized chess, dominoes, checkers or Jenga on-site too!


5. Stay Waikiki
Blink and you’ll miss it, Stay Waikiki is hidden along a side street in Waikiki but boasts the best selection of nearby eateries, shopping and a lively Karaoke Bar on its lobby level. Centered around affordability, the hotel also offers one-bedroom suites with full kitchens for the guest who enjoys crafting their own homemade meals. Enjoy 24-hour coffee and tea service along with beach mats, towels and everything you’ll need to spend a day on the sand. ​

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