Best Pool Hotels in Honolulu - Oahu

Flanked by the white sand beaches of Ko Olina on the southwestern coast of Oahu, Aulani brings your favorite Disney characters to life amid lush Hawaiian scenery. The resort's accommodations range from standard guest rooms to three-bedroom villas and they include minifridges, Wi-Fi access and flat-screen TVs. Obviously, this resort was designed with kids in mind: Aulani invites families to take advantage of the kid-friendly pools and water play areas, as well as the resort's own snorkeling lagoon, Rainbow Reef. Should parents need some alone time, they can drop the kids off at Aunty's Beach House for supervised activities and head off to the spa for a massage or to the fairways of the Ko Olina Golf Club. Aulani receives high praise from previous guests, who describe this Disney hotel as relaxed and lovely. Still, some travelers mention that the resort's remote location may not be the best for guests looking to experience the sights of Honolulu.

This sprawling, 22-acre resort is conveniently located next to northern edge of Waikiki Beach, offering access to both the sands and the downtown area. Features of the hotel grounds (like the secluded manmade lagoon and the tropical gardens complete with exotic birds) may be reminiscent of a remote Hawaiian jungle, but if you're looking for peace and quiet, you've come to the wrong place. The Hilton Hawaiian Village offers kid-friendly activities like snorkeling and sailing on the hotel's catamaran, and the resort also features 20 restaurants and bars to satisfy every member of the family. Meanwhile, the Waikiki Starlight Luau – which is held on the premises – is certainly a fun way for a family to spend an evening. Most travelers enjoy the long list of amenities, but others were not pleased with the high resort fee ($35 per day). However, Hilton Honors members may want to book a room here to earn and redeem points.

Those seeking the best of Oahu may very well find it within the confines of this Four Seasons outpost. Situated along the turquoise waters of the Pacific, nearly 30 miles west of Waikiki, the Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina features 371 oversized rooms (the smallest options start at 640 square feet) that not only ooze with luxury, but most of which also boast unforgettable ocean vistas. Accommodations feature island-style decor (think palm patterned pillows, banana leaf headboards and wicker accents), 65-inch flat-screen TVs and furnished balconies. Beyond the rooms, the resort offers a 24-hour fitness center, a tennis terrace, a golf course and both adult and family pools, as well as the Naupaka Spa & Wellness Centre. The resort also provides direct access to the beach and plenty of activities, including stand-up paddleboarding, sunrise yoga and the opportunity to participate in a traditional Hawaiian outrigger canoe ride. Plus, there are ample dining options (five to be exact) on-site. While the amenities certainly impressed visitors, many guests agreed that the most memorable aspect was the incredible service. Staff members are known to go out of their way to meet special requests, especially for couples celebrating special occasions. 

Sitting along Waikiki Beach's coveted sands, the Sheraton Waikiki is one of the larger hotels on the Honolulu shore. That can be both good and bad. On one hand, recent guests say there is plenty to do both on-site and off. On the other hand, some visitors say this hotel can feel crowded – not only are there dozens of travelers milling around, but this Sheraton's proximity to the convention center makes it popular with business travelers, too. However, many visitors are willing to brave the crowds for access to the Sheraton Waikiki's excellent location in the heart of the action. In terms of amenities, there are two oceanfront pools and cultural activities such as hula lessons and arts and crafts on-site. The hotel also features a few dining options to choose from, though dozens of restaurants sit within walking distance of the front door. Plus, members of the Marriott Bonvoy program can earn and redeem points here.

This boutique resort on Oahu's northern shore – about 45 miles northwest of Waikiki Beach – is popular among avid movie- and television-buffs: Turtle Bay Resort was featured in the film, "Forgetting Sarah Marshall," and the the hit television show "LOST" used the resort's grounds as a backdrop. It's easy to see why Hollywood is so infatuated with Turtle Bay: The property encompasses roughly 850 acres of Hawaiian flora, fauna and shoreline. Inside, you'll find spacious guest rooms, each boasting gorgeous ocean views, as well as complimentary Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs. Outside of the rooms, amenities remain abundant. There's golf courses, a spa, fitness classes, a tennis center, multiple restaurants, a luau experience, water sports activities and much more. Previous visitors have been wowed Turtle Bay's setting above all and give kudos to the staff as well. 

An extension of the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort, the Grand Waikikian towers over southern Honolulu. Sitting on 22 acres of land, the Village is home to multiple restaurants, a video arcade and the Mandara Spa, so you probably won't have to leave the property to have a good time. But just in case, the complex is within reach of both surfer-famed Waikiki Beach and the challenging hiking trails of Diamond Head Peak. The hotel's one- and two-bedroom suites all boast full kitchens and dining areas, plus private balconies, flat-screen TVs and high-speed Internet access. Though with plenty of room to stretch out — not to mention several different pools to choose from — some guests still couldn't get over the high price for parking, and wish there were cheaper options available to guests. As part of the Hilton family, The Grand Waikikian participates in the Hilton Honors reward program, although it falls under the "Distinctive Rewards" category.

Recognizing The Royal Hawaiian isn't difficult at all. This bubblegum pink property has dominated the Waikiki shoreline for almost 90 years. Guest rooms here feature splashes of bright, bold patterns and feature amenities like flat-screen TVs, high-speed internet access and in-room coffee makers. Overall, previous guests enjoyed staying at this hotel. Although you will have to rush to get a seat by the pool, you can always take advantage of how close The Royal Hawaiian is to the best stretches of Waikiki's midway sands instead. The expensive property also houses the full-service Abhasa Spa, while fresh seafood can be enjoyed in style at the Azure Restaurant. But take note: Many visitors say that a stay at The Royal Hawaiian will cost you. However, this hotel participates in the Marriott Bonvoy program, meaning members can cash in their points for perks.

Located within walking distance of the Ala Moana Center shopping mecca and the powdery sands of Waikiki Beach, The Modern Honolulu combines style and swagger with the surfer vibe that many visitors expect from Hawaii's capital. The boutique hotel's many guest rooms include flat-screen TVs and glass-encased showers, plus complimentary Wi-Fi. Travelers say their stays here couldn't have been better, attributing their experiences to the hotel's excellent customer service, location and top-notch amenities, especially the pools. Guests can lounge by two pools — Sunrise is for everyone, and Sunset is adults-only — or indulge at The Grove, which features a romantic outdoor atmosphere with views of the pool. If you're planning to drive to explore the surrounding area though, be sure to keep in mind that valet parking is fairly expensive here.

The massive Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa's two towers occupy almost an entire city block along the shores of Waikiki Beach. Accommodations here feature private balconies (all of which overlook the ocean), 55-inch LCD flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi access. Past guests do warn of the daily resort fee, which might come as a bit of a shock when it comes time to pay your final bill. Still, a stay here will grant you easy access to Honolulu's most popular beach area, as well as a decent array of hotel facilities. The Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach encompasses the full-service Na Ho'ola Spa, a sprawling swimming pool and three restaurants. And during your stay, the hotel invites you to participate in the complimentary cultural activities, which include ukelele lessons and Hawaiian arts and crafts. Members of the World of Hyatt rewards program can earn and redeem points here.

Halekulani remains a traveler favorite for its über-luxurious accommodations and breathtaking views of Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head. Rooms come decorated in Halekulani's signature "seven shades of white" and feature complimentary internet access, flat-panel TVs and welcome fruit and chocolate. Recent guests highly recommend requesting a room that looks out over the shore; the ocean vistas compliment the creamy room decor. Recent visitors also laud the helpful service staff, attesting that employees here went above and beyond to ensure a pleasant stay. While you're here, make some time for the SpaHalekulani, which offers a long list of relaxing treatments inspired by Polynesian therapeutic rituals. Halekulani also houses three restaurants, and two bars, including the Lewers Lounge, which hosts nightly jazz performances. And Leaders Club members you're in luck – as part of The Leading Hotels of the World, this property grants perks like welcome gifts and upgrades.

The Prince Waikiki earns praise from visitors for its impeccably attentive service staff and cozy rooms. Travelers raved about the guest rooms, often describing them as spacious, eye-catching and very comfortable. All accommodations at the Prince Waikiki feature LCD Smart TVs, wireless internet access and minifridges. And since this is an all-oceanfront hotel, every room offers ocean views from its large windows. Perhaps the hotel's best quality though is its convenient locale; the popular Ala Moana Center and the Ala Moana Park are less than a mile from the hotel – an easy walk; plus the hotel offers shuttle service to Ala Moana Beach. The Prince Waikiki also receives praise for its on-site facilities (which include a day spa and a pool) and its expansive golf course, which boasts 27 scenic holes.

Located about four blocks north of the Honolulu Zoo, the Hilton Waikiki Beach hotel is a great option for families. Both Waikiki Beach and Waikiki Aquarium are within walking distance, and the on-site MAC 24/7 restaurant is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Recent guests laud the location and attentive service staff at this Hilton. Also appreciated by guests are the rooms, which are appointed with Hilton's signature Serenity beds, island-inspired decor, flat-screen TVs and private lanais (balconies). For better views of the ocean, request a room on a higher floor; this will also help you avoid late-night noise from the streets below. In addition to a 24-hour eatery, guests will also find two bars, a pool (where one of the bars is located) and fitness center. Because of this hotel's ties to the Hilton brand, Hilton Honors members can cash in points for free nights stays.

The Kahala Hotel & Resort — located about 3 miles southwest of Diamond Head on the coast of the Kahala neighborhood — has played host to a long list of ritzy clients. Even lovebirds Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton came to stay at this Honolulu landmark after their marriage. So naturally, the rooms are fairly posh, featuring private balconies with views of the ocean and or nearby mountains. While you're here, take a break from the Honolulu hustle and bustle with a massage at The Kahala Spa, or simply kick back and relax in one of the cozy lounge chairs that line the pool. The hotel also boasts a pristine stretch of white sand beach, so you won't have to worry about fighting crowds for a spot on the shore. While you're here, recent visitors highly recommend taking advantage of Dolphin Quest: The Kahala grounds feature a lagoon where guests can swim with bottlenose dolphins. Afterward, enjoy a gourmet meal at one of the hotel's multiple restaurants. The only drawback: Some guests were frustrated by the high price for parking. But, not having a resort fee makes up for most incurred costs. Keep in mind that as a member of The Leading Hotels of the World, this property participates in the Leaders Club rewards program.

Opened in 1901, the Moana Surfrider was the first hotel to grace Waikiki's shores. And though the rooms here may be smaller than you'd find at other area hotels, this hotel hasn't lost its touch when it comes to pleasing Honolulu visitors. Previous guests describe this Westin-affiliated hotel as charming and accommodations here house everything you'd expect, including Westin's signature Heavenly beds, flat-screen TVs and, in some cases, private balconies. Though many claim to have enjoyed their stay here, recent travelers are quick to gripe about Moana Surfrider's high room rates; however, members of the Marriott Bonvoy program can use points to cover the tab. Plus, the cost of this hotel covers access to live hula performances and the on-site pool. And for an additional fee, you can indulge in spa treatments at the Moana Lani Spa or top-notch cuisine and beverages at one of four restaurants and bars.

This member of the Marriott portfolio receives mixed reviews from its clientele. On one hand, recent travelers love the hotel's proximity to Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head. On the other, some complained that the accommodations are worn and in need of an update, making them not worth the lofty room rates. You'll have to be the judge. The hotel's 1,310 rooms are decked out with minifridges, flat-screen TVs and coffee makers. Plus all accommodations come with their own lanai (the Hawaiian term for balcony) that offers views varying from a cityscape to a partial or premium oceanfront view. During your stay, you'll have access to two outdoor pools and a whirlpool, as well as the on-site fitness center. The Waikiki Beach Marriott also houses several restaurants serving anything from fresh seafood to classic Italian fare. And because of its brand ties, this resort participates in the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program.

The Trump International Hotel in central Waikiki isn't quite on the beach, but recent guests don't seem to mind. Visitors say that they found everything they expected of a five-star hotel at this Trump property, including excellent customer service. Suites are decorated in neutral decor and come outfitted with Italian marble bathrooms, flat-screen TVs and complimentary Wi-Fi access. (Previous guests highly recommend requesting a room on a higher floor with views of the ocean.) While you're here, make use of the hotel's infinity pool, which offers spectacular views from its sixth-floor perch. Meanwhile, you're welcome to book treatments at the hotel spa or enjoy a gourmet meal at one of the three in-house restaurants. What's more, each guest has access to the Trump Attaché: The service includes babysitting, personal shopping and more.

Just like its name suggests, the Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort can be found along the midpoint of Waikiki Beach, an obvious plus for any Honolulu hotel. The Outrigger Reef is within walking distance of the many shops that are housed within Waikiki Beach Walk shopping complex. But you don't have to stray too far from the resort to have a fun-filled day. This Outrigger property boasts its own list of amenities, including the LaáKea Spa Hawaii, a 24-hour fitness center and surf lessons on the beach. And let's not forget the pool, complete with several chaise loungers, whirlpool spas and food and cocktail service. Meanwhile, the Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort's guest rooms earn praise from previous guests for their views (travelers recommend requesting a room that overlooks the ocean), as well as their private lanais (balconies). Visitors also give kudos to the eager-to-please service staff, but the standout for many is still the location. Though there are many eateries within walking distance, don't overlook the on-site Kani Ka Pila Grille, which features live Hawaiian music nightly. 

It's easy to confuse this hotel with its sister, the Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort, which sits less than a mile northwest along the Waikiki shore. Both have similar offerngs but what sets this hotel apart is its location. Outrigger Waikiki on the Beach sits just steps away from Waikiki Beach, with a great selection of shops and restaurants within easy walking distance of the resort. Guests appreciated this convenience, but what really stood out about this Outrigger is the attentive service staff and gorgeous ocean views. Previous visitors were also impressed with the size of the guest rooms here, which come dressed in tropical decor and feature free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and private balconies. Should you need a little more R&R, relax poolside with a good book before sitting down to a seafood feast at one of the hotel's restaurants. For a true Hawaiian experience, make sure to partake in the recommend the Hula Grill.

Escape the Waikiki traffic and tourists at Paradise Bay Resort, located on Oahu's Tropical Windward Coast. Thanks to the hotel's secluded location (about 17 miles north of Waikiki), you'll enjoy views of the Ko'olau and Kualoa Mountains and Kaneohe Bay. Guests praise these spectacular vistas, but also warn that this peace and quiet comes attached to some poor customer service. Make the most of your scenic stay by booking a View Suite, which offers a glimpse of enviable mountain landscapes from your own private patio. Suites also feature fully equipped kitchenettes, flat-screen TVs, hardwood floors and iPod docking stations. Lodgers note that the rooms, though spacious, are in need of a major refurbishment. But with all of the resort's activities, you won't need to spend too much time in your digs. Though there's no beach nearby, the resort does offer kayaking, standup paddle boarding and fishing, among other diversions. To prepare for all of the activity, take advantage of the complimentary breakfast every morning from 7 to 9 a.m., but plan to go elsewhere for dinner.

Located one block inland from the center of Waikiki Beach, this boutique hotel houses rooms all decorated in a contemporary Hawaiian style. Dark woods, pale sage cushions and simple white sheets create an airy minimalistic decor that many travelers find refreshing. Guests are also especially fond of the private balconies, which offer views of the ocean or of Honolulu's glittering skyline. Aside from some complaints about street noise, overall guests love the locale, which grants easy access to both the beach and nearby shopping areas. When it comes to amenities, the hotel has plenty, including a fitness room, rooftop pool, complimentary exercise classes, daily complimentary wine mixers and a breakfast buffet in addition to an enviable location. What's more, travelers say that the customer service here is excellent, describing the staff as friendly and welcoming. Plus, visitors are granted access to the facilities housed within Halekulani (this hotel's sister property), located across the street.