Found on Oahu’s southern shore, Honolulu is the capital of Hawaii. Synonymous with white sandy beaches, surf and South Pacific dancers wearing floral lays, this is the perfect place to kick back with sea salt in your hair and the sand between your toes. And for those who prefer some cultural exploration, there are plenty of historic sites to explore, from Pearl Harbor to Makapuʻu Point, Diamond Head, the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific and the world-famous Waikīkī Beach. It’s home to an eclectic foodie scene too, most notably around the Chinatown neighbourhood.
The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach
Perched beside one of the most famous beaches on earth, The Ritz-Carlton Residences has the highest infinity pool in Waikiki (eight floors up), furnished with private cabanas offering food service. Choose from a bedroom, a suite with sweeping ocean views, or one to four-bedroom apartments with kitchens and expansive living spaces. But with dining venues such as the 16-seater Sushi Sho showcasing the ancient art of edomae, Dean & Deluca and outdoor restaurants like La Vie and Quiora onsite, you’ll probably want to give the cooking a miss. And do visit the spa, with treatments incorporating volcanic stones, rainforest leaves, lehua blossoms and lomilomi massage techniques.
The Royal Hawaiian, A Luxury Collection Resort, Waikiki
Boasting a private section of Waikiki beach, The Royal Hawaiian dates back to the 1920s and was once owned by the Royal Navy — it is instantly recognisable by its pastel pink Spanish-Moorish facade. Amenities include cultural activities, a programme for kids, two swimming paradises (a Malulani Pool and the Helumoa Playground), watersports, an onsite bakery, a seafood restaurant and the award-winning Azure, and Waikiki’s only waterfront luau. Stay in the landmark Historic Wing or the magnificent Mailani Tower in one of the hotel’s 528 colourful and glamorous rooms.