Gay Honolulu Honolulu City Guide

The beating heart of the Hawaiian Islands, Honolulu is the beloved gateway to golden-sand beaches, extinct volcanoes, misty mountains, and laid-back island vibes. But this comlex Polynesian capital is more than a string of postcard-worthy backdrops. Honolulu is chaotic yet charming. Boisterous yet beautiful. Here, bustling industrial districts coexist alongside picture-perfect natural wonders. The juxtaposition is striking, even more so when trading in the city limits for Oahu’s strong country roots and quiet, rugged coastlines. Honolulu is proud of its multicultural heritage; expect a mosaic of cultures all embracing the “aloha” lifestyle—and a diverse, innovative culinary scene to match. World-famous Waikiki Beach doubles as the epicentre of gay Honolulu. From Queen’s Surf Beach (Honolulu’s famed gay beach) to a healthy smattering of gay bars and nightclubs, come for a tantalizing tropical getaway deserving of its rank as one of the world’s friendliest LGBTQ cities. Looking for the ultimate Honolulu gay guide? Mr Hudson has got you covered.

Where to stay in Honolulu

Let’s start this gay Honolulu travel guide with a roundup of the best hotels in Honolulu. When you have a name like Halekulani (Hawaiian for house befitting heaven), expectations are going to run sky high. But with its first-rate service, elegant rooms and exceptional palm-fringed location on Waikiki Beach, Halekulani doesn’t disappoint. Most rooms on the historic five-acre property boast large lanais (patios), sumptuous deep soaking tubs, and serene Pacific Ocean views. And while it might boast a central Waikiki address, Halekulani still feels like a secluded escape. Don’t skip the SpaHalekulani, where indulging in any one of the native Polynesian-inspired treatments is bound to melt away any last remaining stress you carried across the Pacific. (We speak from the first-hand experience.)

Long a heralded mainstay in the Honolulu hospitality scene, few hotels can boast the same array of distinguished guests as the Kahala Hotel. Think: international royalty, A-list celebrities, and every U.S. President from Lyndon Johnson to George W. Bush. With its vintage mid-century design, private lagoon, and ample amenities, it’s easy to see why discerning travellers have been choosing the Kahala Hotel since 1964. Another premiere Honolulu hotel, Prince Waikiki provides a swanky hotel experience steeped in traditional native Hawaiian culture. Of particular note is Prince Waikiki’s extensive collection of artwork by Native Hawaiians—the most comprehensive in all of Waikiki. The mesmerizing 800-piece copper fish artwork display by celebrated artist Kaili Chun that hangs in the lobby is impossible to miss. Head to Waikiki’s southern edge to find The Lotus Honolulu, a hip boutique hotel that exemplifies relaxed island living and upscale adventure. Located near Honolulu’s iconic Diamond Head, the phenomenal mountain and ocean views are only made better by the complimentary evening wine parties and free bicycle rental service.

The Four Seasons Ko Olina might technically lie about an hour outside of Honolulu, but this newly minted luxury resort delivers five-star service in a lesser-known side of paradise that is still within easy access to the highlights of the capital. Rumour has it that King Kamehameha once vacationed in this sacred area, revered for its beach coves, nature preserve, and tranquil lagoon. Today the royal treatment continues, whether at the adults-only infinity pool, lounging in your sun-filled room, or exploring the island via a private chartered yacht cruise.