Our Favorite Accommodations on oahu
Photography by Chelsea Abril
Our couples almost always ask for suggestions on what hotel they should book for their wedding week. Thanks to the help of our past clientele and our team’s first hand experience, we’ve curated a selection of our favorites on the island! Check out what we have to say about our favorite “getting ready” rooms, hotels with the best customer service, amenities and great room block policies.
In the City
Laylow
As far as we are concerned, Waikiki’s best kept secret!
Right in the heart of Waikiki, Laylow is described as a “hidden oasis”. The property showcases a mid-century modern style combined with present-day Hawaiian charm. This hotel is known among our clients as one of the best places for “getting ready” shots as their iconic wallpaper and general aesthetic provide the perfect backdrop for the start of your special day.
Room Details
You will find a private lanai and a king-bed (or two) in every room, featuring custom-made furniture, coupled with high-tech amenities such as device-enabled TVs and integrated USB chargers. Some of their notable room offerings are the cabana rooms, which opens up into their lush saltwater pool and features two of their iconic mid-mod swinging pod chairs, perfect for hanging out. There is also the corner suite which includes two lanais, additional space, a dining nook, massive queen daybed lounge space, and a living area.
Resort Amenities
This boutique hotel has a secluded saltwater pool with picture-perfect elements around every corner and a state-of-the-art fitness center. Each booking is also welcomed with a basket of goodies, which includes the basic necessities for your vacation.
Restaurants and Event Spaces
At Laylow, you will find one of the trendiest restaurants in Waikiki - the Hideout. Not only is it a great casual meeting place for your guest, but you can fully book it out as a space for rehearsal dinners, welcome gatherings, or post wedding brunch.
Room Block Information
They offer discounts on room blocks with a minimum of ten rooms. Additionally, they extend generous perks and enhancements for the wedding couple and their guests which often includes complimentary internet, discounted parking fees, and double (Marriott) Bonvoy points. When you book a room, they typically charge a “destination fee” which covers cultural activities such as ukulele lessons, lei making, and poolside shave ice, however, when you purchase a room block that fee is heavily discounted by 50%. You can contact their sales and event team at ykondo@pyramidglobal.com or call (808) 628-3011 if you are interested in hosting your friends and family here.
https://www.laylowwaikiki.com/
https://www.laylowwaikiki.com/
https://www.laylowwaikiki.com/
https://www.laylowwaikiki.com/
‘Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach
$$$
For our clients interested in a hotel with a more subtle aesthetic, ‘Alohilani could be the perfect fit for you. Right as you step inside, the lobby is airy and spacious giving the illusion that you far outside the hustle and bustle of Waikiki. Just one block away, you will find Waikiki beach.
Room Details
The rooms feature a beautiful neutral aesthetic with great balcony views. Their guest rooms offer Waikiki views and a partial view of the ocean from your private balcony. Their interiors blend luxury with local elements in a 330 square feet space. Their premium ocean front rooms have a private lanai with unobstructed views of the Pacific and comes with either a king or two queen beds.
Amenities
They have an assortment of amenities including an “Oceanarium” in the lobby, a picturesque infinity pool with cabanas for rent, and events ranging from lei-making to DJ sets by the pool bar. Even though the hotel is steps away from a multitude of shopping and dining options, they have their own to offer. Whether you are looking for fine-dining, a drink by the pool, or a quick bite of ice cream, you can find it on the property.
Restaurant and Event Spaces
There are seven dining options ranging from fine dining to a local-ice cream shop. Morimoto Asia is a popular dinner choice in Waikiki and Chef Morimoto’s asian fusion cuisine has made it one of the best restaurants in the area. The private dining room has a maximum capacity of 22 people, but is the perfect choice for any sort of celebration.
Room Block Information
They require at least 10 rooms for a group rate but boast “group rates [that] are comparable or better than other Hawaii hotel packages” on their website, https://www.alohilaniresort.com/ under “Groups”. You may contact the property directly at 808-921-6196 or sales@alohilaniresort.com to inquire about your room block needs.
https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Feature-g60982-d87111-zft1-Alohilani_Resort_Waikiki_Beach.html
https://www.luxurytraveladvisor.com/hotels/hawaiian-resort-creates-new-think-tank-team
Surfjack
$
Another boutique hotel we thought you might like is Surfjack… where everything you need meets comfort and affordability. Surfjack was recently renovated and refurbished becoming one of the trendier hidden gems in Waikiki. They pride themselves on a more personal interaction with guests. The emphasis on “Ohana” service and the highlights of local artists all around the hotel are great reasons alone to try to stay at Surfjack.
Room Details
Every room at the Surfjack resembles the heritage of Waikiki from the hand-crafted, mid-century-inspired coffee tables to the carefully curated artwork sourced from local artists. Their standard one room bungalow features a private lanai, daily housekeeping service and a queen or two double beds. All their rooms are also pet-friendly!
Amenities
Their amenities include a delicious coffee shop and boutique on site and swim club benefits which includes poolside relaxation with visiting artists, musicians and filmmakers, poolside films at night with the latest big-picture film and adult-only swim time from 6pm to 9pm daily. You will also receive free parking on your first vehicle, as well as complement morning coffee and access to the 24-hour front desk.
Restaurants and Event Spaces
Mahina and Suns - a restaurant with a modern twist on Hawaiian favorites is open for breakfast, happy hour, and dinner. They play live music for their dinner hour and they do their best to accommodate larger parties in the lobby area if you are interested in a welcome gathering or rehearsal dinner.
Room Block Information
Group rates are not always available but can be discussed with the VP of Sales & Marketing by emailing sunnysam@surfjack.com.
https://surfjack.com/room/penthouse-suites-bungalow/the-surfjack-hotel-swim-club412-lewers-st-aqua-aston/
https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g60982-d227765-Reviews-The_Surfjack_Hotel_Swim_Club-Honolulu_Oahu_Hawaii.html
Queen Kapiolani Hotel
$$
Queen Kapiolani Hotel pays tribute to the former Queen of the Kingdom of Hawaiʻi who loved art and composed her own music, surfed, and relished in a great party. The hotel was built in 1967 and overlooks Kapiolani Park, and for decades the hotel was a favorite place where locals and guests gathered for all sorts of occasions. Till this day, the hotel strives to continue on this legacy. The property is situated minutes away from the beach and a walk across the street from the Honolulu Zoo. It is located at the very end of Waikiki and has breathtaking unobstructed views of Diamond Head.
Room Details
There are multiple room options to choose from depending on your preference in a balcony, an ocean, diamond head or city view, and the size of the room. Some options include the premier ocean view room with unobstructed ocean views with one king bed, a diamond head view which provides unobstructed views of Diamond Head with either one king or two queen beds with a balcony and their Grand Leahi suites with spacious accommodations, a full kitchenette, an extra large balcony and the best views in Waikiki.
Amenities
Some of their amenities include complimentary yoga, lei making, hula lessons, a run club, weekly live music entertainment, and access to the Royal Club Lounge - a two-story open air space featuring a Manager’s Table, big screen TV lounge and business center. The lounge also serves as the perfect pre-function event space.
Restaurant and Event Spaces
On the third floor is there rooftop pool deck. DECK features panoramic views of the world famous Waikiki beach and the open-air venue provides a stunning backdrop to enjoy their unique menu, handcrafted cocktails while serving as the perfect location for all celebrations. You do not need to choose between having an indoor vs outdoor event because you can have it both! From tea ceremonies, welcome and rehearsal dinners, the DECK is the ultimate choice for a picturesque celebration.
Room Block Information
Queen Kapiolani requires a minimum of 10 rooms for 3 nights to secure a group rate. Guests will receive discounted room rates along with a discounted parking fee. The bride and groom is upgraded to a junior ocean view suite coupled with free parking through the duration of their stay. A $300 deposit is required, but it is refundable. The couple is given a booking link to pass along to their friends and family where they will be directed to book their own rooms online. A credit card is required to hold the reservation, but payment is not due until the end of the stay. Their rates do fluctuate depending on the time of the year so if you are interested in more information, you may contact Assistant Director of Sales Julie Ogata at jogata@queenkapiolani.com.
https://www.queenkapiolani.com/honolulu-photo-gallery.htm
https://www.queenkapiolani.com/honolulu-photo-gallery.htm
https://www.queenkapiolani.com/honolulu-photo-gallery.htm
https://www.queenkapiolani.com/honolulu-photo-gallery.htm
Oceanfront
Royal Hawaiian
A vintage hotel where history meets luxury. While the Royal Hawaiian is beachfront Waikiki, the atmosphere of the hotel feels like its own little world. It is often referred to as the “Pink Palace of the Pacific” with its distinctive pink exterior and other picturesque features like the coconut grove garden nestled right past the entrance.
Room Details
Royal Hawaiian has two different towers, the Historic Wing and Mailani Tower. The Mailani Tower pulls its inspiration from Hawaiian elegance and adds in contemporary elements, whereas the History Wing effortlessly blends comfort and traditional elegance in authentic “Royal” style. The Historic Wing is slightly cheaper because the rooms are smaller and there is no lanai (what we call a balcony), whereas Mailani Tower is slightly more spacious with all rooms including a gorgeous oceanfront lanai.
Amenities
We love the proximity to the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center which includes multiple varieties of restaurants and the beach right out front. The hotel also hosts a luau every Monday and Thursday open to guests of Sheraton Waikiki, Royal Hawaiian, Moana Surfrider or Princess Kaiulani, which are all under the same ownership.
Restaurants and Event Spaces
Situated on property is the award-winning Mai Tai Bar, an oceanfront outdoor restaurant and bar with unparalleled views of Diamond Head. The fine dining restaurant Azure is also an oceanfront restaurant that offers a four-course menu Wednesday through Sunday evenings with an oceanfront event space available for any special occasion.
Room Block Information
Royal Hawaiian requires a minimum of 10 rooms for one or more nights or at least five rooms for 5+ consecutive nights. Their rates are often better than advertised on their website and they will create a custom proposal based on how many rooms are being booked and the total number of nights. All room blocks are designed and priced on a case by case basis. You may contact the Sales department at (808) 931-8400 to inquire about a custom contract for your booking. The contract will provide a customized quote and a list of amenities provided in your stay. Please note that amenities are typically what is included in a standard stay but anything additional may be negotiated into a contract.
https://www.royal-hawaiian.com/frequently-asked-questions/
https://www.royal-hawaiian.com/rooms/historic-ocean-suite/
Halekulani Hotel
$$$
Adjacent to the iconic Waikiki Beach, the Halekulani Hotel perfectly resembles timeless luxury and is the perfect option for those looking for an oceanfront luxury property. They are known for their elite service, breathtaking oceanfront views and amazing dining options.
Room Details
The rooms, most with ocean views, are located in five buildings all connected by courtyards. Their guestrooms have a restful atmosphere created by the natural, neutral tones of their “Seven Shades of White” signature decor. Their expansive suites provide extra space and have dedicated sitting areas and private balconies with separate areas for sleeping, dining and entertaining. The most elite option is the premier suites which includes a dedicated personal butler, private kitchen facilities, in-room guest check-in and complimentary roundtrip airport SUV transfers. Premier suite guests can also enjoy a personalized spa experience in the privacy of their own suite.
Resort Amenities
Guests can lounge by the freshwater pool equipped with personalized poolside service and enjoy a massage at their award-winning luxury spa. All guests also receive complimentary admission to various select cultural venues, including admission to Iolani Palace, Bishop Museum, Honolulu Museum of Art and Honolulu Museum of Art - Spalding House.
Restaurant and Event Spaces
Halekulani is well known for La Mer, one of the most prestigious fine dining restaurants on O’ahu. With that being said, our favorite dining option at the Halekulani is their exceptional Sunday brunch. The hotel offers several event spaces for larger groups that are perfect for pre, post wedding or even wedding day celebrations.
Room Block Information
There is a minimum of 10 rooms to qualify for a group rate with Halekulani. To inquire more about the booking process or regarding any additional information, you may reach out to their Sales Manager Leah Woolsey at leah.woolsey@halekulani.com.
https://www.halekulani.com/rooms/
https://www.halekulani.com/gallery/
Kaimana Beach Hotel
$$
Freshly remodeled in 2021, Kaimana is nestled at the end of the Waikiki strip, approaching Diamond Head. This separation from the city is most ideal for a couple that wants the illusion of being more secluded while still having the option of proximity.
Room Details
Kaimana Beach Hotel offers rooms and suites that is sure to provide you with a good time. The penthouse suites provide the ultimate experience with bright and bold designs and a wraparound balcony where you are able to enjoy panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. Their rooms provide iconic views of Diamond Head and serves as the ultimate relaxation space after an event-filled day. All rooms come with high-speed WiFi, a flatscreen TV and LATHER bath amenities.
Amenities
Each stay includes tailored amenities and services included with the Kaimana Club Pass. This includes in-house experiences such as introduction to ‘ukulele, yoga, stand up paddle boarding and traditional lei making. It also includes beach club services such as concierge and pre-arrival services along with multiple in-room perks such as daily housekeeping service.
Restaurant and Event Spaces
Hau Tree, Kaimana’s signature beachfront restaurant also re-opened with a full new menu, continuing to be a local favorite for casual yet upscale dining. There is also a private room with great views available for a rehearsal dinner or even an intimate reception.
Room Block Details
Kaimana requires a minimum of 10 rooms per night to qualify for a group booking discount. Additional concessions may include waived resort fee, room upgrades, discounted use of event space, et cetera. Rates for their rooms depend on how many total rooms you are interested in booking, how far in advance you book, and the room category desired. You may contact their sales and events manager Ashley Onzuka at aonzuka@kaimana.com if you are interested.
https://www.cntraveler.com/story/kaimana-beach-hotel-first-in
https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g60982-d86951-Reviews-Kaimana_Beach_Hotel-Honolulu_Oahu_Hawaii.html
https://www.tripadvisor.com/kaimanabeachhotel
https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g60982-d86951-Reviews-Kaimana_Beach_Hotel-Honolulu_Oahu_Hawaii.html
Four Seasons Resort
$$$$
Located on the westside of the island is Four Seasons Resort. This location is the most ideal for those who are looking to avoid the Waikiki hubbub without sacrificing quality service or a view. We highly recommend this hotel for couples hosting their wedding at the Lanikuhonua Cultural Estate, which is just a short walk away!
Room Details
This lux property has different accommodations suited for your personal needs. Their guest rooms provided the ultimate comfort and privacy. Their standard suites provided added space and comfort with living and sleeping areas opening onto private lanais where you are greeted with ocean and resort landscape views. Their premium suites are the perfect option for romantic couple retreats and their specialty suites are the most expansive on the Resort, featuring separate living and bedroom areas where you can work, play or rest and provides you that extra space.
Resort Amenities
The resort offers multiple pool options including a Keiki Pool, Ohana pool and an Adult Infinity Pool. Guests can also treat themselves to a facial or body treatment at their spa center, enjoy golf at the top-ranked golf course with unbeatable views, and wind down in the sauna and steam rooms.
Restaurants and Event Spaces
The Resort also has five distinct food and beverage options, all offering fresh and innovative cuisine. In addition to their restaurant establishments, they have several rooms that can be rented for private events… think welcome drinks, rehearsal dinners, after parties, post wedding brunches as well as weddings of any size. Across the street lies some local shops and restaurants which notably includes one of our personal favorites - Monkeypod. They are known for their mai tai’s and their daily happy hour from 3:30pm-5:30pm accompanied with live music.
Room Block Details
Due to high demand, they do require a higher minimum (20 rooms per night for two consecutive nights) compared to the other properties for a room block. As we’ve gathered from their Group Sales Manager, the most common two suites reserved by couples are the Ocean Front Junior Suite and and Ocean front One Bedroom Suite. Concessions include waived resort fees, a complimentary upgrade to an Ocean Front Junior Suite for up to two nights at the Ocean Front King group rate for the couple, complimentary welcome amenity for all guests upon arrival (hotels choice), complimentary guest room internet and turn down service. For inquires regarding room blocks, their Group Sales Manager Nicholas Flores-Hatt can be reached at nick.hatt@fourseasons.com or by phone at (808) 679-3377.
https://www.fourseasons.com/oahu/
https://www.fourseasons.com/oahu/photos-and-videos/
After connecting with all of our favorite hotels, the most common advice for booking from the hotel executives we talked to was “the earlier, the better”. When it comes to deciding where you want to stay, the main things to keep in mind are price, location, and atmosphere.
Each of these properties is unique in their own way and we hope you find the one that best suits you and your guests needs. We hope our recommendations help take the guess work out of planning your perfect destination wedding accommodations.
Happy Planning!
