Hip and heavenly: 3 boutique chic Honolulu hotels

The New Otani Kaimana Beach Hotel captures the heart of Hawaii: water views, blue skies and fab florals.

By Vince Font

Some people don’t like all-inclusive vacations. Others swear by them. But on this we can all agree: We all enjoy a getaway to Hawaii. Here’s an escape to satisfy both sets of travelers: Honolulu hotels that ooze boutique appeal. Check out these three chic stays, each one a prime destination for summer vacations.

The New Otani Kaimana Beach Hotel
Beach vacations don’t get much better than they do here at The New Otani Kaimana, which is a relatively small hotel when compared with some of the megalithic giant chains just a bit further up the beach. But if you’re looking for is intimacy, quiet and exclusivity, sometimes you have to scale down. All rooms are non-smoking, and ocean-view deluxe suites offer private balconies that face west to theocean, delivering some seriously stunning sunset panoramas.

Aqua Waikiki Wave

Relax in the sleek, surf-themed rooms at Aqua Waikiki Wave.

The Aqua Waikiki Wave is a boutique hotel with an ironic name – the fact is, you have to walk a block to get to the waves. But that’s not a problem. While it’s a given that most people who come to Hawaii for their summer vacations will want to spend the majority of their time right on the water, you’d be surprised at how many vacationers also come to Hawaii to take in the city life. For those who dig both, the Aqua’s aforementioned block distance from the sand and its immediate proximity to the International Market Place make it the perfect location for both worlds.

The Lotus at Diamond Head
For those who’d prefer to lay their head closer to the surf but still have the convenience of reaching central Waikiki by foot, there’s the Lotus at Diamond Head. A mere 100 feet from a quiet stretch of beach, the hotel property looks out over the ocean in one direction and toward the imposing but impressive Diamond Head Crater in the other. Its location right next to Kapiolani Park also makes it a happening spot for festivals.

If you’re searching for spring destinations, your time is running short – but you still have an opportunity to scoop up a cheap vacation if you act fast. And don’t forget to take some time to brush up your Hawaiian — it just might keep you from getting lost! Remember this if you ever have to ask a local for directions: “mauka” means “inland” and “makai” literally means “toward the sea.”

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Vince Font is a travel writer with a deep love of weird, wacky, and off-the-beaten-track vacation destinations.

Tagged: Hawaii, Hotels