Though sometimes it’s beneficial to try new things, staying at one of Hawaii’s iconic resorts and hotels is difficult to pass up. The best new hotel options in Hawaii, with their fresh-faced, freshly built, and remodeled hotels dotting the islands, are making a name for themselves with their modern décor and contemporary lodging. These are the top five spots you should reserve based on our 2018 Readers’ Choice Awards.
1. The Westin Nanea Ocean Villas, Kaanapali
Opening in April 2017, the elegantly opulent living experience of the rooms at The Westin Nanea Ocean Villas marks one year. As one of the best new hotel options in Hawaii, all villas, which are opulent homes away from home, have a complete kitchen, a furnished patio, and a washer-dryer system—perfect for a traveling family. A visit to these oceanside residences will probably inspire you to renovate your own house with elegant hardwood furniture, and the view from the pool of Maui’s immaculate western coastline could get you thinking about turning your trip into a permanent holiday. You can find the Westin Nanea at 45 Kai Malina Parkway, Lahaina, Maui, and contact them at (808) 662-6300.
2. Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu
The Holoholo Grill, a partnership with James Beard Award-winning chef Sam Choy and provider of gastro-inspired Hawaii comfort food, is the only thing that will entice you to leave this stunning new hotel in Hawaii. Three large pools, twisting and twirling slides, and a waterfall grotto will all be helpful. Retreat to the resort’s comfortable rooms, decorated to the nines in beautiful Hawaiiana décor, when you’re stuffed and exhausted from a demanding day of vacationing. 4241 Poipu Road, Koloa, Kauai, (808) 725-2596, koloalandingresort.com.
3. Hyatt Centric Waikiki Beach
As part of a new wave of boutique hotels entering Waikiki, the Hyatt Centric Waikiki Beach offers very Instagrammable rooms and suites at a low cost, making it one of the best new hotel choices in Hawaii. This boutique hotel is a terrific choice for guests wishing to lounge in luxury without breaking the budget because of its floor-to-ceiling windows, crazy views of Waikiki, and large rooms. 349 Seaside Avenue, Waikiki, Oahu, (808) 237-1234, waikikibeach.centric.hyatt.com.
4. The Laylow, Autograph Collection
Remembering the motto of real estate professionals everywhere (“Location, location, location”), The Laylow, Autograph Collection has positioned itself squarely in Waikiki. This midcentury contemporary hotel is nestled near other new Waikiki favorites, including the recently rebuilt International Market Place, The Street, and Dukes Lane. It is particularly well-known as one of the best new hotels in Hawaii for its stylish alfresco bar, Hideout, which presents local cuisine creatively spun by head chef Bryan Byard. 2299 Kuhio Ave., Waikiki, Oahu, (808) 922-6600, laylowwaikiki.com.
5. Holiday Inn Express Waikiki
Given its five-star hotels and opulent resorts, staying in Waikiki may be a costly undertaking. Luckily for frugal visitors, Holiday Inn Express Waikiki, one of the best new hotel selections in Hawaii, has everything you need. While elegant furniture and modern interior design will certainly make you feel as though you are staying at a fancy resort, its small rooms offer the basics. A complimentary breakfast buffet will lower the total cost of your trip, allowing you to save money. Visit the hotel’s nine-hole miniature golf course if you are all beached out but still seeking some free entertainment. You can reach the hotel by phone at (808) 947-2828
These best new hotel options in Hawaii provide unique experiences, combining modern luxury with the natural beauty of the islands, making them must-visit destinations for anyone looking to experience Hawaii in a new way.