If hearing the word “pamper” evokes images of a popular diaper brand, it’s time you planned a vacation.

But if you have young children like me, another family trip isn’t always the break you need. Luxury hotels and kids rarely mix. When Trump International Hotel Waikiki, Oahu’s first and only Forbes Travel Guide’s five-star hotel and the hotel rated #1 on TripAdvisor for 76 consecutive months, invited me to stay in exchange for a family focused review, I gladly accepted. Could this be the stay every parent dreams about?

Greeted with a Bird’s Eye View of Waikiki

I must have passed it a hundred times, but missed it. At the end of Saratoga Road, the 38-floor building is a modern, and understated, hotel amidst busy Waikiki. The hotel, which is within walking distance to pristine Fort DeRussy Beach Park, imbues a classy vibe. But it’s on the sixth floor, where the real experience begins. As the elevator doors open up to the lobby, you’re greeted with a bird’s eye view of Waikiki and welcomed with leis, ice-cold water and towels.

A Surprising Difference

While the hotel is full of residents and guests (100 percent of the units are individually owned with the majority participating in the hotel’s rental program), it’s surprisingly tranquil and private. If you’re a frequent visitor to hotels that cater to young families, you’re used to the familiar soundtrack of babies and kids. There’s little of that here as we stepped into the elevator. It was a surprising difference. As we made our way up to our room, it felt like we were visiting an aunt in her upscale residence.

Every unit is slightly different, but I’m told they all have modern amenities such as washers and dryers in suite units, marble bathrooms, a full fridge, oven and, at minimum, a kitchenette to make guests and residents feel comfortable. Some even come with a wine cellar.

Extra Perks

Our own one bedroom unit with den was beautiful and at the same time practical. The full-sized refrigerator was stocked with bottled water, and I actually took a real bath in the marble tub. There were also nice surprises along the way like activity books and plush toys for my sons. Extra perks like these made us feel so special, but having necessities on hand was equally important. That night I felt redeemed when a call to room service replaced the kids’ toothbrushes I forgot to pack.

I Fear We Have Spoiled Him for Life

My son loved the infinity pool and the movie we watched together as a family in our cozy hotel room. He even had his own mini Trump robe and slippers. I fear we have spoiled him for life. Really. Where could you stay next after staying here?

I’m Already Thinking of Going Back

For me, I appreciated the ease in preparing for a picnic dinner on the beach. Trump hotel has beach bags filled with bottled water, fruit and towels at the front, and we ordered take out from Waiʻolu. Our bento dinner was delicious, and because guests receive four-hours complimentary parking with validation, I’m already thinking of going back.

I Felt Like a New Person

The big thing for me as a mom with two young kids, however, was the spa. You know how you normally need a code to get into your locker, but you’re so relaxed and sleepy after a treatment you can’t remember it? Or following a massage, you’re left with smudged eyeliner and imprints from the massage table? Forgotten codes and walking around with messy faces are not a problem when you have your own private room. The most memorable part of my spa day, however, was the services I received. While normally talkative therapists keep me awake, the massage therapist and esthetician worked their magic in silence. For the first time in over ten years, I actually fell asleep. Rejoining my family, I was relaxed, rested and glowing. I felt like a new person.

Luxury Family Vacations Are a Real Thing

So how was our night at Trump International Hotel Waikiki? To be honest, there were still tantrums and diaper accidents. I don’t think a stay anywhere has the ability to miraculously make that disappear. But after a glass of the hotel’s Waikiki Breeze drink and two hours of being in spa bliss, these little annoyances felt trivial. I discovered that luxury family vacations are a real thing and a doable endeavor even for young families like ours. Prepare yourself though. Being pampered and pampering your child means that, like in our case, you might just be juggling both at the same time.

Visit trumphotels.com/waikiki for more information and to see their special family offers.

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Discover the beauty of the North Shore at Turtle Bay Resort

Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the city life, Turtle Bay Resort is the only resort on Oahu where guests can jump out of bed and atop a friendly horse. Oceanfront trails and seaside pathways lead families on horseback through miles of seemingly untouched Hawaii. Leisurely paced trail rides, evening and sunset rides are available for keiki ages 7 and up, but for those under 7 years old, Turtle Bay also has a pony experience and pony parties available. The resort’s 850 acres of land can also be explored on foot, off-the-beaten path on segways, or by bike. Enjoy the five miles of secluded beach on an outrigger canoe, surfboard, stand-up paddleboard and kayak. Continue to splash around at the keiki pool waterfall or 80-foot water slide. Turtle Bay has an activity for your whole family with kids golf, tennis, helicopter tours, ukulele and hula lessons, haku lei classes and more!

Take a ride on Waikiki’s longest slide at the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort

With six pools and the world-famous Waikiki Beach just a few minutes away, the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort is perfect for families wanting to soak up the sun and splash around. Jump into the Paradise Pool, a 5,000-square-foot family activity pool with the longest slide in Waikiki. For younger children, the keiki pool is a tiered pool off the Super Pool, a 10,000-square-foot beachfront pool. Camp Penguin leads keiki age 5 through 12 through fun and educational activities about Hawaii for a half or full day with off-property excursions to the Honolulu Zoo, Waikiki Aquarium, Bishop Museum, or Children’s Discovery Center. Activities vary by day and include a Hawaiian word of the day, exploring wildlife, feeding koi fish, scavenger hunts, lei making and more. The resort also boasts weekly fun-filled activities like kid-friendly sunset movie nights every Wednesday and Saturday, a fireworks show every Friday night, hula lessons, ukulele lessons, lei making, keiki games & crafts, and ocean activities such as surfing, stand-up paddle boarding or kayaking. The largest resort in Waikiki is also home to parrots, penguins and turtles.

Four Seasons Resort Oahu takes keiki on a memorable experience at Camp Kohola

West Oahu is the place for laid-back luxury and some of the island’s most breathtaking sunsets. Families staying at the Four Seasons Resort Oahu can take advantage of the complimentary Camp Kohola at the Hideaway, a supervised program for keiki ages 5 through 12 that takes them on a journey through the expansive resort grounds. Keiki can explore the state-of-the-art Camp Kohola centre that’s home to a media room, a Creativity Zone and a games room. The Family Pool at the edge of the beach gives families room to splash around while taking in panoramic ocean views. Unique to the Four Seasons Resort is the glamping experience, an on-property overnight excursion where keiki can gather under a blanket of stars in a luxurious tent for Hawaiian storytelling and stargazing, games, movies, dinner and a round of ‘smores. In addition to the complimentary snorkel gear, stand-up paddleboards, and hula lessons, the Four Seasons Resort focuses its efforts to welcome keiki down to the details providing child-size bathrobes, complimentary children’s toiletries and keiki menus.

Splash around in one of the kid-friendliest pools at the Sheraton Waikiki

Keiki will go crazy just thinking about the 15-foot high by 70-foot long water slide, sprinkler-like fountains and tropical landscaping comparable to some of the nation’s most elaborate pools at the Sheraton Waikiki’s Helumoa Playground. It’s the perfect place to spend the day as a family with a staging area for outdoor functions, two large whirlpools, chaise water sunning benches, a pool hut stocked with fun goods, and beautiful views of Waikiki Beach. The Sheraton Waikiki’s kid camp is equipped with certified teachers that lead keiki on trips to the Honolulu Zoo or Waikiki Aquarium and plan activities like lei making, bodyboarding and more. Poppins Hawaii Waikiki Keiki daycare is equipped with both English- and Japanese-speaking teachers to welcome keiki as young as three months old and for as little as two hours. At the Sheraton Waikiki, keiki can also take part in hula, ukulele lessons and lei making.

Swim with the dolphins at The Kahala Hotel & Resort

Located about 10 minutes from Waikiki, The Kahala Hotel & Resort is the only resort on Oahu that offers guests a chance to swim with the dolphins. The resort’s private lagoon is home to a variety of local marine life, including dolphins, stingrays, sea turtles and colorful fish. Keiki have the chance to get into the water for an up-close experience with a family of friendly dolphins. As they splash around, Dolphin Quest trainers in cooperation with Sea Life Park teach guests about sea animals, the ocean and how to protect it all. Keiki can also join the trainers at feeding time to experience the excitement of feeding the sea animals. The daily children’s keiki club at The Kahala also lets keiki spend time outdoors learning about the ocean and Hawaiian culture.

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Searching for the perfect romantic hotel in Honolulu? Well, there’s the iconic “Pink Palace of the Pacific” (The Royal Hawaiian) and the equally iconic “First Lady of Waikiki” (Moana Surfrider), both beautiful and grand in their own right. Or, there’s the Halekulani and The Modern, both known for their romantic ambiance. The Trump International Hotel Waikiki, the only Forbes Five-Star hotel on the island, is another excellent choice. But what if you’re looking for something a little more laid back and, well, let’s be honest, less expensive?

Here are some suggestions for reasonably priced, romantic boutique hotels in Honolulu.  Prices often dip below $200 per night, but each hotel maintains a repertoire of upscale amenities to keep you and your someone special feeling, well, special. Check out the list below.

1.  Shoreline Hotel Waikiki

Think island-chic. The Shoreline Hotel Waikiki is a modern boutique hotel with a focus on simple, island-chic. With everything you need and nothing you don’t, you and your love can truly escape to your new, “island home away from home.”

Why it’s romantic: Shoreline Hotel Waikiki caters to the senses, be it the rejuvenating “Essential Oils” Lobby Bar, fresh flavors of Heavenly Island Lifestyle restaurant, or the sumptuous textures of high-grade linens.

What not to miss: Don’t miss the “Forget the Surf Package,” a chauffeured foodie tour of Honolulu. This adventure takes the two of you through Chinatown, home to Honolulu’s exploding culinary scene, as well as an authentic Japanese teahouse complete with an ancient tea ceremony.

Special Offers: Shoreline Hotel Waikiki offers a “Book Direct & Save” promo where you can save 15%.

2.  Hotel Renew

Sexy, chic, and totally contemporary, Hotel Renew is another modern boutique hotel in Waikiki. Guests are greeted with a cold, scented towel upon arrival and encouraged to unwind each day at Lounge Renew. Happy hour starts at 5:30 p.m. daily with handcrafted cocktails and good conversation.

Why it’s romantic: The lounge-like atmosphere along with bold red and black designs evoke passion and fantasy.

What not to miss: Don’t miss the chance to consult with Hotel Renew’s very own aroma concierge to customize your room scent.

Special Offers: Book early and save! Book 30 days in advance and save up to 20% off.

3.  The New Otani Kaimana Beach Hotel

Come see the quieter side of Waikiki. The New Otani Kaimana Beach Hotel literally touches the sands of Kaimana Beach, on the coveted eastern end of Waikiki. Private lanais with panoramic views of Waikiki’s azure waters are sure to enchant.

Why it’s romantic: Along with such a superb location, guests at The New Otani Kaimana Beach Hotel are also spoiled with romantic dining options. Enjoy brunch at award-winning Hau Tree Lanai where the eggs Benedict are as famous as the iconic hau tree. Indulge in an intimate, sunset dinner at Miyako where you can tuck away in your own private cabana and enjoy the craftsmanship and nuances of authentic Japanese food.

What not to miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to book an executive suite for the best experience, including full views of Waikiki from your bathtub!

Special Offers: For a limited time you can get a $50 dining credit, restrictions apply. Special savings for advance bookings and seniors are also available.

4.  Paradise Bay Resort

Okay, so Paradise Bay Resort is not really located in Honolulu. However, this tropical oasis of a boutique hotel is really something quite special and worth noting. Paradise Bay Resort is the only hotel on Oʻahu’s lush eastside. It is located in an area called Kahaluʻu and overlooks stunning Kāneʻohe Bay.

Why it’s romantic: The setting is tropical. The feeling is intimate. And the accommodations, in fine wood finishing and granite, are quite exquisite.

What not to miss: Don’t miss the Saturday boat excursions out to the Kāneʻohe sandbar. You’ll feel like you’ve been whisked away to a mystical water world. This might just be the highlight of your trip.

Special Offers: For a limited time only, book and pay now on for an ​exclusive 52% discount!

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So you’ve finally decided to treat yourself to an island getaway in Hawaii, but you still want to be smart about your spending? Lucky for you, Oahu has an impressive array of hotels that offer just enough glamour at just the right price. Listed below are our top picks for Oahu best value hotels, each with 3-5 star ratings, and offering affordable rooms, with amenities included, at less than $200/night.

Hawaii Prince Hotel

Waikiki’s favorite hideaway, the Hawaii Prince Hotel, and its unique all-oceanfront accommodations, really stands out from the rest, as each suite provides stunning views of the pristine Pacific. Also a big win for this 4-star resort? Its close proximity to the nearby Ala Wai Yacht Harbor, Waikiki and Ala Moana Beaches, and Ala Moana Shopping Center.

The Equus

A rare and unique gem, The Equus is a lovely boutique hotel on the edge of Waikiki. Guests staying here can choose from a range of executive and traditional suite accommodations, and will enjoy close proximity to near endless restaurants, one of the world’s largest shopping malls, and of course, the beach!

Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki

With its iconic Rainbow Tower, Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki offers its guests 4-star accommodations amid a sprawling 22-acres of tropical beauty. While staying in your stunning suite, relax and enjoy any of the resort’s five pools, onsite restaurants, or Mandara Spa.

Aston at the Executive Centre

Especially popular among Oahu’s business elite, perhaps for its super convenient location right in downtown Honolulu, Aston at the Executive Centre is Oahu’s only all-suite hotel, many with amenities such as fully-equipped kitchens, wet bars, and washers and dryers. The best part? Those visiting for work are within walking distance to the State Capitol, government offices, and the financial district.

Ala Moana Hotel

Nestled near the Hawaii Convention Center, the Ala Moana Hotel offers its guests more than 1,000 rooms and 51 suites to choose from, each with amenities including complimentary high-speed internet service, flat screen televisions, in-room safes, and most with private balconies that are perfect for taking in beautiful ocean or mountain views.

Ramada Plaza Waikiki

Comfort is the key ingredient at Ramada Plaza Waikiki, a hotel located just a short, five-minute stroll from Waikiki Beach and all the entertainment, dining, and fun it has to offer. And don’t forget to enjoy its adequate guest rooms and avail yourself of the fitness center and large outdoor pool.

Double Tree by Hilton Alana

Nineteen stories of stunning urban escape, the Double Tree by Hilton Alana offers 317 contemporary guest rooms, a heated outdoor pool, 24-hour poolside fitness center, and more, all just steps from Waikiki Beach and Ala Moana Center.

Luana Waikiki

Luana Waikiki invites its guests to “stay in serenity” within tropical-styled rooms, each equipped with all the standard amenities, or any of its studios or suites that offer kitchenettes or full kitchens.

Waikiki Gateway

Open the door to a delightful Hawaiian stay at Waikiki Gateway, where you’ll be just minutes from all that the area has to offer while staying in one of 181 guest rooms with all of the modern conveniences one would expect, as well as enjoying its outdoor pool.

Aqua Waikiki Wave

Comfort and relaxation await at Aqua Waikiki Wave, where friendly service and a casual atmosphere are its trademarks, as well as its incredible central location and lovely guest accommodations.

Choose among any of these ten Oahu treasures, and make the most of your Hawaii vacation while still operating within your budget. Aloha, and enjoy!

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There is a good reason that Oahu is called “The Gathering Place,” as it is the perfect locale for bringing together loved ones to luxuriate in all that Hawaii has to offer. Listed below are the most exclusive Oahu hotels for your next visit to paradise, each ranked at 3-5 stars, and offering an elite collection based on the sought after criteria of desirous location, luxury amenities, and endless sophistication and style.

The Kahala Hotel and Resort

The Kahala Hotel and Resort is the standard when it comes to stunning location and stellar amenities among Oahu hotels. Nestled on a white sand beach just minutes from Waikiki, this oceanfront hideaway features 338 suites, gourmet restaurants and a world-class spa.

Trump International Hotel Waikiki

Trump International Hotel Waikiki is the only Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Hotel on the island of Oahu. The luxury hotel has been the recipient of this prestigious five-star hotel distinction for six consecutive years since 2015. The hotel provides an unparalleled luxury experience with first-class service and residential-style accommodations that can sleep up to eight guests.

The Royal Hawaiian

Known as the “Pink Palace of the Pacific,” The Royal Hawaiian is considered to be the gold standard when it comes to destination weddings and relaxing in the lap of luxury. Featuring impeccable accommodations, dining service, world-class restaurants and bars, onsite spa and more, this icon among Oahu hotels will truly take your breath away.

Halekulani

Halekulani also has it all, with an oceanfront locale on Waikiki Beach offering 453 guest rooms and onsite Spa Halekulani. Literally translated, “House Befitting Heaven,” this resort’s name is a true testament of the indulgences and pleasures each guest can look forward to.

Turtle Bay Resort

Oahu’s North Shore gem, Turtle Bay Resort boasts beautiful oceanfront accommodations, world-class golfing, onsite stables, full-service spa, fine dining and more. The impressive resort has also been the site for the filming of several Hollywood Blockbusters, such as Forgetting Sarah Marshall.

Aulani

Disney’s newest venture, Aulani, is a unique, family-friendly resort offering an unforgettable Hawaii experience. The resort features fine dining, onsite spa, and even an artificial lagoon, and was designed to pay respect and homage to Hawaiian local culture, even incorporating Hawaiian cultural programs such as music, dance, history, and arts and crafts into its operations.

Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort

Also impressive is the oceanfront Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort, where no resort fees, combined with luxurious lodgings and stunning sea and Diamond Head views add up to an unbeatable luxury getaway.

The Modern Honolulu

For those looking for a more hip destination, The Modern Honolulu is your match made in Heaven. Here, overlooking Waikiki’s scenic marina, cosmopolitan chic meets the ultimate in style and sophistication.

Vive Hotel Waikiki

Vive Hotel Waikiki, Oahu’s newest lifestyle boutique hotel, is also a stylish and vibrant spot. Located on Kuhio Avenue, this happening hotel offers a calm retreat, yet is just steps away from the electric energy of Waikiki.

Moana Surfrider

Magical and traditional, Moana Surfrider keeps this sophisticated and classy, boasting 4-star resort accommodations just minutes from Waikiki. Enjoy its onsite spa, premium dining, 793 stunning guest suites and more.

See also: Best Big Island Hotels, Best Kauai Hotels, and Best Maui Hotels.

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