Whether you’re looking to taste some authentic, buttery croissants, see some magnificent sculptures and paintings, relax in the well-maintained gardens, or tour the sights, this city simply has it all. From famous galleries and museums like the Louvre and the Musée d’Orsay to the beautiful buildings of Notre Dame and the Arc de Triomphe ー, Paris stands out as an undeniably one-of-a-kind place. 

Lock Eyes with the Mona Lisa at The Louvre

The famous Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci is currently housed in the Louvre Museum. This popular work of art draws large crowds, so if you want an unobstructed look at this portrait, a great option could be to book tickets for a last-entry tour that allows you to skip the line. 

If you’re hoping to make the most of your visit to the Louvre, there are countless other priceless works of art and artifacts that are worth seeing. The museum boasts an impressive collection consisting of the famous Venus de Milo sculpture, Delacroix’s Liberty Leading the People, and Géricault’s The Raft of the Medusa paintings, among many others. 

Hotel recommendation:

 Hôtel Moliere: Spas, massages, facials, and saunas are all on offer at this high-end, 4-star hotel option. The boutique hotel has an elegant design, as well as spacious rooms. 

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Be Dazzled by the Eiffel Tower

Gustave Eiffel’s world-famous Eiffel Tower has essentially become synonymous with the city of Paris and is one of the most visited monuments in the world. However, seeing its photo on a postcard pales compared to witnessing its unique design in real life. You can climb the metal masterpiece from 9 AM until midnight, either going up to the second floor or straight to the top, using elevators or stairs. The prices vary depending on how far you wish to go up, how you want to go up, and your age. 

You can also visit one of the restaurants and bars on the different levels of the tower. Aside from the buffets found on the first two floors and the esplanade, there are establishments that offer incredible food, delicious drinks, and spectacular views, including Madame Brasserie by Thierry Marx, The Jules Vernes by Frédéric Anton (one MICHELIN star), and The Champagne Bar. 

Under the moonlight, the tower is illuminated by twinkling lights creating a magical, luminous display for onlookers. The 20,000 bulbs sparkle for five minutes every hour from dusk to 11:45 PM, giving you plenty of time and opportunities to enjoy the light show.

Hotel recommendation:

Hotel Eiffel Kennedy: Staying near the Eiffel Tower often means that hotel prices will be much higher. However, this charming 3-star hotel will give you a comfortable, central stay without breaking the bank.  

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Admire Notre Dame

The famous cathedral has been at the center of multiple historical events, including the coronation of Napoleon as Emperor, and holds a special place in the heart of many Parisians. Tragically, whilst restoration work was being done in April 2019, the roof caught fire, causing significant damage to this beloved building. Nevertheless, most of the structure has stayed intact, and plans are to reopen it fully to the public in December 2024. 

It is still worth a visit, even if you plan to visit Paris before the official reopening date. Whilst the towers and treasuries are currently inaccessible to visitors, you can access the cathedral’s parvis and archaeological crypt. 

Hotel recommendation:

Hotel Europe Saint Severin Paris: This 3-star hotel has rustic decor, a homely feel, and a lower price point than many hotels in the same area. It could also hardly be any closer to Notre Dame, making it a great location for those wanting to stay nearby.

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Stroll the Luxembourg Gardens

Walking through the Luxembourg Gardens provides a little bit of relief from the hustle and bustle of the city, giving you a chance to relax. Its charm draws both locals and tourists thanks to its calming atmosphere, exquisite flower beds, and manicured lawns. It is the perfect place to stretch your legs, enjoy family time or take someone on a romantic date. 

The gardens themselves are overlooked by the regal Luxembourg Palace and were inspired by the Boboli Gardens in Florence, which can be seen from the well-maintained areas and outdoor sculptures dotted around. There are also greenhouses, areas to play pétanque (a French sport similar to boules), and beehives. 

Hotel recommendation:

Hotel Le Six: This 4-star hotel has a more modern vibe to it and some stellar reviews from other visitors. You can enjoy getting pampered in the spa, relaxing in the steam room, and getting a drink at the swanky bar. 

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Take a Seine River Boat Tour

While walking along the river is a wonderful way to soak up the sights and enjoy a relaxing stroll, booking a riverboat tour makes a trip to Paris even more enchanting. There are countless companies offering their services, but most will take you past the main landmarks of the city and give you scenic views, which you can enjoy in style. Some also offer meals and champagne, adding extra glamorous detail to your day. 

Booking a trip during the day allows you to see everything in broad daylight, but the city truly comes alive at night.  For the most dreamy experience, you can book a dinner cruise where you can treat your tastebuds to some delicious dishes while being serenaded by violinists and pianists.

Hotel recommendation:

Juliana Hotel Paris: Another 5-star option with unique decor that has been meticulously designed. It offers a spa, a fitness center, and individually decorated rooms, so no two are the same!

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Enjoy the Artwork at the Musée d’Orsay

The Louvre may be the more famous museum to visit, but the Musée d’Orsay should be just as high up on your bucket list! The building itself was converted from a Beaux-Arts style railway station, creating an interior that looks so original. However, the museum is more than just that, given that it houses a huge amount of masterpieces from mainly French artists and is renowned for having a rich collection of Impressionist art. It houses twenty-four of Van Gogh’s paintings (including the stunning Starry Night), eighty-six paintings by Monet, and fifty-six pieces by Cézanne. 

The museum is open every day, apart from Mondays, and offers a variety of guided tours, workshops, and changing exhibitions. If you’re lucky enough, you may even be able to attend a concert during the evening or at lunchtime in this house of culture. Make sure to check the website and book well in advance in order to avoid disappointment. 

Hotel recommendation:

Hotel Montalembert: This 5-star option is located only an 8-minute walk away from the Musée d’Orsay. It offers spa services, babysitting for an extra charg, and ornately-decorated surroundings.

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Explore Montmartre

This bohemian area of Paris has historically captivated artists and creatives, creating an atmosphere that still inspires many to this day. The place is simply gorgeous, with its winding streets and cobbled surfaces, it feels distinctly like a quaint village. Here you can visit the Sacré-Cœur Basilica on top of the Montmartre hill, either by walking up 197 steps or, if your legs are tired from all of the exploring, you can take the funicular. 

This isn’t the only thing that the village has to offer, though.  There is the Place du Tertre, where you can look at the wonderful paintings and drawings of local artists. Also, the Moulin Rouge is located here, along with the “I Love You” Wall (Le Mur des Je t’aime). This piece of art has “I love you” written all over jet-black rock in over 250 languages.

Hotel recommendation:  

Mercure Paris Montmartre Sacré Coeur: A reasonably-priced, 4-star hotel that is close to the Moulin Rouge, the metro, and the Sacré-Cœur Basilica. There is also a garden, fitness space, and terrace. 

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Experience the Atmosphere of The Latin Quarter

This area is one of the most ancient in the city, meaning that it is full of history and culture. The Pantheon can be found in The Latin Quarter, where honored men and women important to France are interred or commemorated, including the writers Victor Hugo and Emile Zola. 

Paris’ Natural History Museum is also located in this quarter, along with the attaching Jardin des Plantes, which is a botanical garden that is free to visit. The only thing you may have to pay for is entry to the zoo, where you can meet fascinating exotic animals. 

Aside from the endless exciting places to see, the atmosphere is second to none. There is a thriving jazz scene in this district, so you can’t miss out on going to one of the many jazz or cabaret clubs found here. 

Hotel recommendation:

Hotel d’Aubusson: Originally, this hotel was a 17th-century mansion and is the epitome of luxury. This 4-star hotel’s central location places you around many places of interest and welcomes you back with superb interior design and fantastic service after a long day of sightseeing.

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Do Retail Therapy at the Galeries Lafayette

This shopping mall is one of the most recognizable in the city thanks to its distinctively lavish interior design in the style of Art Nouveau. From an enormous glass dome to gilded features to illuminating lights, it is truly a breathtaking sight! If you’re a luxury fanatic, there are plenty of places to indulge and treat yourself to a designer souvenir. You can buy items from Dior, Chloé, Hermès, Chanel, Céline, and many more French and international fashion brands.

Once you’re feeling exhausted from carrying around all those shopping bags, there are lots of places to sit, enjoy a coffee or order a delicious meal. 

Hotel recommendation:  

Hôtel Excelsior Opéra: A 3-star hotel with a lot of character. All of the rooms are designed in a simple, contemporary style, with the comfort of their guests in mind. They also all have flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi. 

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Visit the Arc De Triomphe

This commemorative monument dedicated to the victories of Napoleon’s army is globally recognized for its distinctive arch and elaborate sculptures and engravings. Those wishing to climb to the top will get a staggering view of one of the most beautiful streets in Paris: the Champs-Élysées, as well as the Eiffel Tower and The Louvre. The top is also accessible by elevator, making it an activity everyone can enjoy. Remember to book tickets in advance so that you can skip the queue and keep your itinerary for the rest of the day on track!

Hotel recommendation:

Hotel EKTA: A lovely 4-star hotel with 70s-inspired decor, only a stone’s throw away from the Arc de Triomphe. You’ll love the funky fabrics and electric artwork that the hotel has chosen.

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The post The 10 Best Things to Do in Paris, France appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Note that most of the following tips apply to both the Olympic and Paralympic Games, which tend to occur about two weeks apart. The two-week break makes it very tough to attend both, but the Paralympic Games are just as exciting and inspiring, so they’re worth consideration in and of themselves.

Getting Tickets to the Olympics

Buying tickets for the Olympics will look slightly different this year than in the past. Previously, event presales were handled by a single vendor depending on where you live — for example, in the United States, ticketing was handled by CoSport. For the 2024 Games, tickets are only available through the official ticketing website of the Paris Olympics. Tickets for Paralympic events are available through the same portal beginning October 9th.

Event tickets tend to be released in waves. The first round of tickets for the Paris Olympics went on sale via a lottery system in March, followed by a second wave in May. As of July 5th, the remaining tickets are available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

When choosing events, I have found this strategy to work well: First get something you really care about, and then choose something that seems interesting but you know very little about. For example, at one recent Olympic Games my family went to a tae kwon do event when our son was involved in the sport, and we even saw his teacher there working as a judge. The next day we went to mountain biking, which was wild and very cool, with attendees all running around the fields that connected one obstacle to the next.

Tickets to many events may officially sell out up to a year in advance but are often still available through package deals. A visit to the vendor’s website will tell you a lot about what is on offer.

Figure Out Your Lodging Next

Lodging is likely to be your biggest challenge and is the trip component you should research and lock down first. You can use your favorite search engines to get started, comparing your options to the venues you hope to attend. The venues are set years in advance, so you can start searching fairly early on. Brace yourself, as there is quite a bit of speculative pricing that can go on, and availability can be hard to come by; in fact, one 2020 Olympic hopeful I know booked their entire family into double rooms at a Tokyo “love hotel,” yikes.

The official Olympics ticketing site also offers all-inclusive travel packages that include a certain number of nights’ lodging with a certain number of event tickets—but those tend to be somewhat pricey compared to DIY lodging options. That said, purchasing from the official outlet does tend to ensure some level of quality as well as a centralized location, so it is always worth a look.

Finding Olympic Flights

Many Olympic host cities have more than one airport, and it is worth your while to research airfares to all of them. For the Paris Olympics in 2024, for example, you can choose between Charles de Gaulle, Paris-Orly, and Beauvais–Tillé Airport.

Paris-Orly is smaller than Charles de Gaulle, but is less busy and located within easy reach of the southern side of the city. Charles de Gaulle offers more flight options from a wider range of destinations and is located to the north. For those flying budget, Beauvais–Tillé Airport may be your best bet.  

Weather, Transport, and Getting to Venues

You’ll want to prepare for extreme weather no matter which Olympics you’re attending—pack plenty of warm layers for the winter Games, and prepare for heat if you’re attending a summer event.

Transport to venues varies tremendously depending on the host city and the location of a given venue. As you get farther from the main venues, transport connections can become more tricky. Strong public transportation in past Olympic cities such as Tokyo and London has been essential. Rio was a different story, but taxis were so affordable that they were actually a preferable option in many cases (just be careful to use sanctioned taxi services).

It almost goes without saying that you should give yourself some extra time whenever you are headed to a competition; if you miss a bus, end up on a long security line, need some time to find the correct entrance, or can’t quite figure out where you are supposed to go, you could miss the most dramatic moments of the competition.

You should also be prepared to walk a bit; entrances may not be right in front of transportation spots, security might be purposely far from the competition area, and the venue itself may be spread out.

Find the Free Events

Even before you start attending competitions, every Olympic host city has some kind of massive public space for exhibitors and sponsors to put on shows, display wares, and more. These are often (although not always) right outside the main Olympic Stadium and have the host mascots running around, interactive games and exhibits, giant jumbotrons showing live events and highlights, and the like. These are worth seeing just to get the overall vibe of the Games, to people-watch, and to pick up (often free) souvenirs. This year, guests can even watch the opening ceremony ticket-free on the upper quays of the Seine.

Additionally, at every Olympics there are a number of events that take place in semi-public places, allowing you to see significant parts of the event at no cost whatsoever.

These are usually distance events of some kind in which the venue is huge and can’t be entirely closed off, or even runs through the streets and public spaces of the host city. These typically include the following:

• Marathon
• Road cycling
• Rowing, canoeing, and kayaking
• Sailing
• Triathlon

I’d also throw in surfing; 2021 was the first year of surfing at the Games, so there is little history of how it is set up, but it seems like a candidate for being able to watch from near the event.

Then there are venues that back up to public spaces. In Rio, rowing was one of these; the lake on which the event took place was right in the middle of Ipanema, and you could see athletes competing from all over the place. The finish line was right next to a small skateboarding spot, and the crews headed right toward the kids skating there, while the start line was against the ring road around the lake at a spot where a small playground and picnic area remained open throughout the Games. The starting tower was surrounded by picnickers, and the local spectators were perhaps 50 to 80 meters from the athletes at the starting line.

These can be a bit tricky to figure out—for example, in London, you could not see rowing at all because the venue was surrounded by a huge moat that prevented anyone but ticket holders from getting anywhere near the course—but if you survey the venues and racecourses, you can usually figure out where you might hang out to see the athletes zoom past.

Consider Heading Home Early or Late

I have found that folks trickle into the Olympic host city over time, but everyone leaves over the same day or two. Leaving the day before the closing ceremonies, or staying on a few days afterward, can often help avoid the stampede as well as keep airfare prices down a bit.

More Olympic Travel Tips

Don’t Overpack

Travel light to each event. The biggest slowdown you will encounter will almost always be bag check lines when entering (this is a rule at almost all large events these days). If you can avoid backpacks and bags, you can save time and aggravation.

Explore the City

Add in some “regular” tourism. Most host cities are exceptional destinations with or without the Games, and can be even better during the Olympics when even the non-sports attractions will get caught up in Olympic fever and put their best foot forward. Definitely visit some non-Olympic events to get a feel for the host city and country while you are there.

Get Official Info

For details on transportation, venue locations, things to do and see, and more, the official site of the Local Organizing Committee is the place to start. Here are the sites for the next few Olympic Games: Paris 2024, Milan Cortina 2026, and Los Angeles 2028. For safety tips, you might also want to check the State Department’s country information and travel advisories.

Get Into the Spirit

The volunteers at most Olympics really bring it when they are out interacting with all of us visiting the Games, and the overall vibe on the ground can be exhilarating. Give yourself over to the whole thing and you can be a true part of the Olympic spirit.

Ed Hewitt has covered several previous Olympic Games as the publisher and founder of row2k.com. His writing and photography have appeared in dozens of magazines, newspapers, websites, films, and other media.

The post Everything You Need to Know About Traveling to See the Olympics appeared first on SmarterTravel.

These hotels are the best places in Miami to get a good night’s sleep after a day on the beach and a night at the clubs.

Mandarin Oriental

Brickell Key isn’t far from Miami, but its island location, slightly apart from downtown makes it feel a world away. The best Brickell Key hotel is the Mandarin Oriental, which offers a relaxing oasis.

Inside the hotel, guests will find walk-in showers, soaking tubs, and comfortable beds, along with some of the best views of Miami from their windows. When you want to experience the bustle and excitement of the city, you’re only a five-minute walk away from downtown Miami. 

If you want to stay in for a secluded getaway, the Mandarin’s private beach and extensive room service menu mean that you can enjoy a fantastic vacation without ever having to leave the property.

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Biltmore Hotel Coral Gables

Coral Gables is nicknamed “The City Beautiful,” and the Biltmore Hotel certainly lives up to that description. The hotel dates back to 1926, and a 2018 renovation has brought its features up to date without sacrificing any of the charms that make this place special. Marble columns and hand-painted décor create a magnificent atmosphere, and amenities include the largest hotel pool in the continental United States.

Along with the pool, you’ll find plenty of recreational activities on the property, including tennis courts, a salon, and a championship golf course. You’ll also find easy access to some cultural activities in Coral Gables, such as the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden and the Lowe Art Museum. If you’re looking for more than the beach on your trip to Miami, this is one of your best options just south of the city.

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Nobu Hotel Miami Beach

Remember, Miami and Miami Beach are not the same place. South Beach sits a bridge away from Miami proper, which makes hotels on the beach prized for those who are looking for a beach trip out of their time in South Florida. The Nobu Hotel is one of the top options on Miami Beach because it sits just across from the sand, offering guests easy access to the waterfront whenever they want to check out the ocean.

On the property, guests can enjoy three outdoor pools, spacious rooms with fantastic views of the Atlantic Ocean, luxurious tubs and showers, and some of the best culinary experiences in Miami. The hotel is home to Chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s restaurant Nobu Miami, one of the best Japanese restaurants you’ll find anywhere. You’ll also have easy access to Miami Beach’s nightlife, making this one of the best hotels in Miami if you’re looking for the best of beach life and upscale experiences.

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The Setai

Deep relaxation in the lap of luxury is the name of the game at the Setai, which offers hand-made Duxiana beds, rainfall showers, and three hotel pools that are kept at different temperatures to ensure guests find the right one for their needs. This is the ideal spot to sleep off a long night on South Beach because you’re surrounded by luxurious items as well as an environment where everyone’s trying to get the most relaxing weekend they possibly can.

A stay at the Setai is definitely a splurge choice for your time on the beach, but if you really want to come to Miami to get away from the stress of daily life, this is the place to be.

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Shelborne South Beach

Getting a great hotel on South Beach doesn’t have break your vacation budget. The Shelborne South Beach proves that guests don’t have to sacrifice luxury for affordability as it offers direct beach access, heated pools, and comfortable beds and balconies in the rooms for cheap rates. The property underwent a full renovation in 2014 and now carries a modern Art Deco atmosphere that more than serves the needs of its guests.

With easy access to both the beach and the restaurants and nightclubs on Collins Avenue, this is a great place to stay if you’re looking for a cheap South Beach hotel.  

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Fontainebleau Miami Beach

The Fontainebleau is the original Miami Modern hotel, and it’s still one of the best. It’s been around since the 1950s, but its current version first appeared in 2008 as one of the top resort options available for South Beach travelers. You won’t ever have to leave Fontainebleau to experience the best of Miami Beach, as it’s home to LIV, one of the top clubs in the city, and Scarpetta, a famous Italian restaurant. 

Fontainebleau’s rooms cater to both the party crowd of South Beach as well as those who want to relax and get away from stress. Multiple towers feature different atmospheres, so you can customize the vacation vibe you want. Both the large pool and easy access to the beach make sure that this is one of the best hotels in Miami for anyone looking for some fun in the sun. 

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W South Beach

A 2020 renovation took what was already a popular hotel and made it into one of the best hotels in Miami Beach. W South Beach offers the largest rooms in South Beach, and each one provides a private balcony to allow guests to enjoy the sunshine while escaping from the crowds.

This hotel caters to art and culture lovers, as it sits right across the street from the Bass Museum of Art and the outdoor sculptures of Collins Park. The hotel offers its own collection of top-quality art, and a tour of W’s gallery is included as part of the resort fee. Head in the other direction, and you’ll run right into the main draw of Miami Beach: the beach itself.

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Four Seasons at the Surf Club

Palm trees in the corridors, clean and comfortable room designs, luxury bathrooms, and poolside service await you at the Four Seasons. This hotel’s the ideal choice for those who really want an escape, as it’s situated in the Surfside section of northern Miami Beach. That means you’re not going to find the party scene that you would on South Beach, which can be a good thing for those who want a calm, tranquil beach getaway.

If you’re looking to spend as much time in the water as possible, this is a great choice. Three pools, beach access, and an older clientele mean that you’ll be able to enjoy the beach without getting interrupted by the more boisterous scenes further south. 

Lido Restaurant and the Surf Club restaurant ensure that you’ll enjoy top-quality meals without having to leave the resort, and you’ll wake up to fantastic views of either the city or the ocean, depending on your room’s location.

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Faena Hotel Miami Beach

Have you ever wanted to spend a few days living like you’re in a movie? The Faena Hotel offers exactly that scene, as recent renovations made it look and feel more like something that belongs on the big screen as opposed to off the Atlantic Ocean. The bedrooms are bright and well-lit for enjoyment during the day, and the comfortable bedding makes for a restful night’s sleep when the day’s over.

The Faena’s best described as kind of an in-between spot as far as the South Beach party scene. It’s not as boisterous as the furthest south locations, but it’s not as quiet as the northern section of the beach. You’ll find elegance and touches of whimsy here, along with top-quality service and easy access to the beach.

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The National Hotel Miami Beach

Sometimes, you just want to get away from the kids and enjoy a weekend free of responsibilities and heavy on adult fun. The National Hotel is the best adults-only hotel in Miami. Previously, the National was known for its infinity pool as well as its beach access, but it’s now established itself as one of the few spots in Miami that is only open to adult guests.

Some of the recent property updates include a martini bar inside the hotel, an outdoor bar for beach guests, and a full restaurant inside the hotel. The infinity pool is still as majestic as ever, and guests can enjoy massages, ocean views, and quality-sized rooms in one of the more historic buildings on South Beach. It’s also situated just off Collins Avenue for easy access to nightlife and bars.

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The post The 10 Best Hotels in Miami, Florida appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Mandarin Oriental Boston

Awarded both the prestigious Forbes Five-Stars and AAA Five-Diamonds ratings, the Mandarin Oriental is the epitome of luxury. The hotel’s Boylston Street location will put you firmly in the heart of Boston’s Back Bay neighborhood—and it’s directly connected to the Prudential Center, so you can shop and dine without having to set foot outside. 

Rooms at the Mandarin Oriental are surprisingly spacious for an urban hotel, starting at 410 square feet, and outfitted in a chic Art Deco style. 

Make sure to schedule a treatment at the hotel’s famous 16,000 square-foot spa for the ultimate in pampering before you go.

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The Liberty Hotel 

Ever spent the night in prison? You can say you have after sleeping at The Liberty Hotel. Of course, accommodations in this former historic prison turned luxury hotel are a million times more comfortable than a jail cell (but you’ll still find playful nods to its past in the decor throughout). 

The hotel’s aptly named restaurants and bars (Clink, Alibi, and The Yard) attract a vibrant mix of locals and tourists practically every night of the week. The Catwalk (located on the jail’s original Catwalk) is a guest-only bar that offers an unbeatable perch for people-watching.

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The Newbury Boston  

Opened in 1927 as one of the first Ritz-Carlton hotels in the US, this historic property was transformed in 2018 to reopen as the revamped and rebranded The Newbury Boston. Nestled on the edge of the Boston Public Garden, many rooms here offer stunning park views. In the winter, book a Classic Fireplace Suite which features a romantic wood-burning fireplace. 

Make a reservation at the hotel’s Contessa restaurant when you book your stay—seatings for this highly-acclaimed Italian eatery fill up a month in advance.

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The Colonnade Hotel Boston 

Hotels with pools are scarce in Boston (which makes sense, as swimming season is a few short months here.) However, if you’re visiting in the summer, you’ll want to book The Colonnade Hotel as its crown jewel is the property’s gorgeous outdoor rooftop pool. The pool is surrounded by private cabanas and offers a summer experience that’s impossible to find anywhere else in the city. 

When you’re done sunning and swimming, the hotel’s central Back Bay location is primed for exploring.  

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W Boston 

Catching a show in Boston? The W Hotel is the best hotel in the Theater District. The hotel recently underwent a $10 million renovation, and the property looks brand-new. Rooms at the hotel were “inspired by notorious Boston disruptors, from Aerosmith to Edgar Allan Poe,” says the W.

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Boston Marriott Long Wharf 

The Boston Marriott Long Wharf holds an iconic spot directly on Boston Harbor. Take advantage of the location by booking one of the luxury waterfront suites that feature a balcony with stunning harbor views. 

Can’t swing a suite? Treat yourself to a meal at the hotel’s Waterline restaurant, which offers equally amazing scenery. 

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Omni Boston Hotel at the Seaport 

With 1,054 guest rooms and suites, the Omni Boston Hotel at the Seaport is one of the biggest in Boston. The Omni Seaport is another rare Boston hotel with an outdoor pool—this one is located on the fifth-floor rooftop and offers gorgeous views of the city skyline. The open-air Lifted Pool Bar & Grill serves up cocktails and a food menu from 11 am – 9 pm daily. 

The Omni Seaport puts a priority on wellness. Maintain your workout routine in the 3,000 square foot gym that’s stocked with Peloton Bikes, TRX stations, and more. Or, focus on self-care with a trip to the full-service Breve Spa.

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Cambria Hotel Boston

The Cambria Hotel is a popular destination for locals in the warm weather who flock to the hotel’s rooftop for a buzzy nightlife scene, creative cocktails, and epic city views. Book a room here to be close to both the rooftop action and the lively South Boston neighborhood next door. 

The Cambria is located right across the street from a T station, so you’ll be able to easily hop on the red line to explore the city.

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Four Seasons Hotel One Dalton Street 

One Dalton Street, a 61-story skyscraper that opened in 2019, was the tallest building to be built in Boston since the John Hancock Tower went up in 1976. The tower houses the Four Seasons Hotel and the brand’s luxury residential apartments. 

Rooms are as luxurious as you would expect from the Four Seasons, starting at 397 square feet. The suites really shine here, featuring large soaking tubs set in front of floor-to-ceiling windows and private outdoor decks overlooking Boston.

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Boston Park Plaza 

Stay in a piece of Boston’s history (but with modern amenities) at the Boston Park Plaza. The property opened in 1927 as The Statler Hotel and hosted dignitaries and celebrities including Winston Churchill and Judy Garland. When the Park Plaza opened, rooms cost as little as $3.50 a night—today, you can find rooms for as low as $114 per night in the off-season. 

The Boston Park Plaza underwent a $100 million renovation in 2016 that updated and modernized the property while still retaining the historic touches it’s so famous for. 

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Battery Wharf Hotel Boston Waterfront

Set on the Boston Harbor just outside the city’s famous North End neighborhood, the Battery Wharf Hotel boasts one of the best locations in Boston. A stay here will put you near the North End’s Italian restaurants, touristy Faneuil Hall, and the TD Garden. 

Many rooms offer waterfront views, and all rooms have windows that can open so you can enjoy the fresh sea breeze—a rarity for hotels. 

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The Ritz Carlton Boston 

Just steps from the Boston Common, newly renovated rooms at The Ritz-Carlton offer park or city views along with large marble soaking tubs, Bose radios, and Frette linens. An in-house Bath Butler can draw a selection of relaxing baths upon demand for total relaxation. 

Continue the relaxation with The Ritz-Carlton’s spa (run in conjunction with Equinox Sports Club) which offers a range of facials, massages, and treatments. 

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The Verb Hotel

If you’re catching a game or concert at Fenway Park, you can’t stay any closer than The Verb Hotel, which overlooks the storied ballpark. Originally a motor inn, The Verb has been completely redone into a stylish musically-themed boutique hotel. 

Music-lovers will find more than 1,700 vinyl records in the lobby library, Audio-Technica Record Turntables in the rooms, and rock n’ roll art throughout. 

Party like a rockstar and then sleep in late the next day—rooms at The Verb feature blackout blinds and the lobby is stocked with nitro-brewed coffee 24/7.

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Moxy Boston Downtown

Looking for a kid-free Boston vacation? The Moxy Boston Downtown bills itself as “Boston’s first adult playground,” and guests are greeted with a complimentary signature cocktail upon check-in. You’ll have to be 21 or over to stay at this party-focused hotel that’s for adults only. 

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The Row Hotel 

Formerly a Ford Motor Assembly Plant and now a thoroughly modern hotel, The Row Hotel offers affordable rates just outside of Boston. Located in Somerville’s Assembly Square neighborhood, a new outdoor shopping mall set on the banks of the Mystic River, the hotel is within easy walking distance to a huge number of shops and eateries. If you want to venture into Boston, the nearby T stop makes it easy.

With its location near Legoland and an indoor pool, The Row Hotel is a great pick for family trips to Boston.

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Are you in agreement or are you misaligned with most of the traveling public? Travel site Kayak conducted a poll of the most hotly debated travel opinions to determine the Unspoken Rules of Air Travel.

Here’s what the survey found:

Cutting the Line Is Ok

About to miss your flight? According to Kayak’s survey, 57 percent of travelers will have sympathy for you (and will let you cut the line) if it’s the difference between making it to the gate in time or being left stranded.

Unattended Children Should Be Banned

Letting your kids run around the airport (or plane) freely in the hopes they’ll burn off some energy? 90 percent of respondents ask that you rein them in, voting that children shouldn’t be left unattended during travel.

Don’t Stand on the Moving Sidewalk

If your personal pet peeve is people who ride the moving sidewalks at the airport (rather than walking on it), you’re not alone—57 percent of travelers feel the same way. 

Just remember, moving sidewalks are a huge help to people with mobility issues—so try to extend some grace and patience when travelers aren’t walking on them. 

Clapping When the Plane Lands Is Annoying

Your fellow passengers ask you to hold your applause when the plane touches down. A close margin of 51 percent of flyers thinks this measure of appreciation is “pointless” because the pilots can’t hear you.

The Middle Seat Doesn’t Get Both Armrests

A surprising 57 percent of passengers have no sympathy for the person stuck in the middle seat, saying the armrests are up for anyone to grab. 

Reclining Your Seat is Acceptable

Go ahead and lean back (just please, do it the right way) next time you fly. A vast majority (88 percent) believe that the recline button is offered for a reason.

Leave Your Socks On

Fellow flyers don’t want to see (or smell) your bare feet. Seventy-six percent of passengers voted that people should keep their socks on during a flight.

The post The 7 Most Controversial Travel Opinions appeared first on SmarterTravel.

There’s no one organization in the United States that hands out definitive star rankings to hotels. Instead, individual hotel booking sites and other groups use their own rating system to categorize properties to help travelers know what to expect.

Expedia, which is part of the same corporation that owns many hotel booking sites such as Hotels.com and Booking.com, is one of the few sites to publish their methodology for star rankings—making it a good general reference point for figuring out what hotel star ratings really mean.

Expedia Hotel Star Ratings

Forbes Travel Guide Star Ratings

If you’re looking to treat yourself to an upscale hotel stay, check Forbes Travel Guide. The publication only evaluates luxury properties, and only issues stars to hotels that meet their high-quality standards. Only the best hotels will receive stars—anything below four stars that still meets the criteria to be included in the guide simply earns a “recommended” rating. 

Unlike other star rating systems, Forbes Travel Guide places a high emphasis on service, saying, “Seventy percent of a property’s rating relies on its service—with a more exacting look at the guest experience as a new service metric for 2023—while the remaining 30 percent accounts for the quality and condition of its facilities.”

To evaluate hotels Forbes Travel Guide sends in inspectors who “test up to 900 rigorous standards, from modern-day luxuries—such as whether a room is set up to enhance sleep quality or whether the food-and-beverage choices support a guest’s well-being—to more traditional elements, such as the décor and the attention the staff pays to a guest.” 

AAA Hotel Diamond Ratings

The American Automobile Association (AAA) owns another popular hotel ranking system. Instead of stars, AAA uses diamonds to rate hotels, and ratings are refreshed yearly.

AAA Executive Director of Travel Stacey Barber tells SmarterTravel, “Each year, AAA Inspectors visit over 25,000 hotels in our portfolio, in person. We pride ourselves on giving travelers only current assessment and first-hand information about the hotels we designate.”

If you want to make sure you’re booking a truly luxurious hotel, look for the AAA Five Diamond rating—according to Barber, only 0.5 percent of properties inspected earn that coveted ranking.

Here’s how AAA explains its ratings:

International Hotel Star Ratings

Hotel star rankings are not standardized across the world. In Europe, 20 countries utilize the Hotelstars Union rating system. This group aims to classify hotels with common criteria so it’s easy to tell exactly what each star rating means.  

The countries that participate in this rating system are: Austria, Azerbaijan, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Slovenia, Sweden, and Switzerland. 

European Hotelstars Union Rating System

Want to find five-star hotels for cheap? Check out our sister site, SmarterTravel Hotels, for big savings even on luxury properties.

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The Best Mother-Daughter Trips

By the time your mom or her mom reaches her golden years, you really start to appreciate the chance to travel together, because it’s easier to recognize the moments passing. Though there may be some comical generational differences in travel style, there’s no better way for women young and old to bond than traveling together on a mother-daughter trip.

Here are some of the best mother-daughter vacations to delight moms and daughters of all ages, no matter when you travel together.

Jolly Trolleys and Golden Gates: San Francisco, California

Everyone should see the magnificent Golden Gate Bridge at least once, and a mother-daughter trip to San Francisco is the perfect excuse for doing so. Bike or walk across the bridge to get out of the fog, and have lunch with a view in the whimsical town of Sausalito.

Pair a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with a CityPASS, which includes admission to some of the most popular Bay Area attractions, like the California Academy of Sciences and the Aquarium of the Bay, and the option to add on a cable car pass.

While roaming around Pier 39, have a bread bowl of clam chowder at Boudin Bakery, made with San Francisco’s famous sourdough bread—you won’t regret it. Nor will you regret the decadent chocolate sundae you’ll have at Ghirardelli Square after.

Where to stay: Book a room at Hotel Zoe Fisherman’s Wharf for a memorable stay central to the city’s most famous attractions.

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Vinos and Velos: Cycling from Dijon to Beaune, France

For an active vacation paired with exquisite wine and a whole lot of grandeur, try a mother-daughter bicycle tour through the Burgundy region. Explore the French countryside at your own pace while stopping along the way to taste a sampling of France’s finest fermented grapes.

Start in the historical town of Dijon at the Place de la Liberation. Pedal past rolling vineyard hills and storybook chateaus on your way to the charming town of Nuit-Saint-Georges. Take a break while you’re there to appreciate a taste (or two) of the region’s Premier Cru red wines, made from Pinot Noir grapes, and go truffle hunting at one of the local farms.

End your bike tour in the fairy tale town of Beaune. Its main square has been hosting an unmissable Saturday market since the early 13th century.

Where to stay: Stay at the The Maven at Dairy Block for an exceptionally lively atmosphere with loft-style rooms, access to shopping and dining in the city’s Dairy Block micro-district, and easy access to downtown Denver.

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Sipping, Sampling, and Shopping: Denver, Colorado

With so much to offer, it’s no wonder Denver is becoming such a popular destination for mother-daughter trips. If you want to shop, dine, partake in a libations tour, take in the arts, or do all of the above, you can do it in Denver.

The city’s most popular area for strolling and shopping is the neighborhood around 16th Street Mall and Larimer Square. You can dine your way around Denver with stops at Rioja, Tamayo, Avanti, and North Italia, and then drink your way around on a boozy tour. There are plenty of guided tasting tours that will take you to places like Laws Whiskey, The Infinite Monkey Theorem Urban Winery, Colorado Cider Company, and Denver Beer Company. The Cooper Lounge in Union Station is the best place to enjoy a fancy cocktail.

Where to stay: At the MOXY Denver Cherry Creek, you’ll enjoy a fun and modern stay. The space encourages guest interaction with a full bar and an impressive assortment of lobby games, from shuffleboard to Hungry Hungry Hippos.

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Relax and Rosé All Day: Calistoga, California

While Napa may get all of the shout-outs, the best place to stay in California wine country is Calistoga. It sits at the base of Mount Saint Helena, about 25 miles northwest of the town of Napa. In Calistoga, you can do all of the iconic things mothers and daughters daydream of doing on a mother-daughter trip, like getting daily spa treatments and drinking Rosé all day.

Volcanic ash, mud, and mineral baths are the specialty spa treatment of this town. What better way to celebrate the unique bond between a mother and daughter than taking a mud bath? You can also get a proper massage treatment at Calistoga Spa and Hot Springs and the recently renovated Calistoga Motor Lodge and Spa. Basically, you can walk from one end of town to the other in spa flip-flops, getting one treatment after another, and no one would blink an eye.

Take off your shoes and get stomping at Grgich Hills Estate, which offers daily grape stomping during the harvest season. Go for a royal tour and wine tasting at the Castello di Amorosa, a medieval-inspired Tuscan castle that features barrel-tasting and a torture chamber. No trip to Napa would be complete without taking a ride on the famous Napa Valley Wine Train. Book the Vista Dome for one of the most memorable meals you’ll ever have. The three-hour journey includes a gourmet meal and wine, of course.

Where to stay: You’ll find a stay at Dr. Wilkinson’s Hot Springs Resort to be reasonably priced and wonderfully retro.

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Beauty and the Beach: Maui, Hawaii

There’s a reason everyone loves Maui. Whether you’re nine years old or 90, you can appreciate the wonders of this island paradise. Maui is an extraordinary place to make mother-daughter travel memories that will last a lifetime.

Drive the road to Hana, hike the Bamboo Forest, go snorkeling with sea turtles at Maluaka Beach, catch the sunrise at Haleakala National Park, and learn about Maui’s fascinating history at a traditional luau. Or, you know, just skip all of that and sunbathe at the beach.

Whatever you do on Maui, try to catch an evening meal at Mama’s Fish House during sunset. One of the photos you take is sure to become your new screensaver.

Where to stay: Treat your mom to a stay in the lap of luxury at the Grand Wailea to make your trip extra splendid. If you’re traveling with the whole family, stay at the Hotel Wailea, a private paradise estate in Kihei so you can make meals together and relax in the comfort of a home setting.

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Shamrocks and Smiles: Road Tripping Around Ireland

Haven’t you always wanted to take a mother-daughter trip to Ireland? Want to kiss the Blarney Stone, drive the Ring of Kerry, or perhaps behold some sheep roaming lush green hills of the countryside? Take a road trip from Dublin that passes through Cork, Killarney, Dingle, and Galway, and you’ll delight in exploring these sights.

Visit the nearby town of Kinsale and take the easy hike to Charles Fort. Spend a day in Killarney National Park, and make time to visit the historic sites of Dingle before heading to the Cliffs of Moher and Galway, which is known for its traditional pubs and live Irish folk music.

Where to stay: Stop by the Hayfield Manor in Cork for a quintessentially Irish stay, complete with gourmet dining and afternoon tea service.

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Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

Melissa McGibbon’s travel accomplishments include circumnavigating the globe on a ship, having dinner at Fidel Castro’s house in Havana, skiing steep chutes in Canada, and downhill mountain biking in Peru. Follow her on Twitter @mcmliss.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2018. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

The post 6 Incredible Mother-Daughter Trips You’ll Always Treasure appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Editor’s Note: The airfares, hotel rates, and vacation package prices in this story are sample prices only, and may vary depending on your specific travel dates.

The Dominican Republic

The beaches of the Dominican Republic are as beautiful—and as safe—as any in the Caribbean, and round-trip flights to the island can cost as little as $250 from New York or Miami.

Choice Hotels’ Ascend collection includes two all-inclusive resorts in the Dominican Republic with incredibly low nightly rates: Travel during the off seasons—spring and fall—and you can nab a stay at Emotions by Hodelpa Juan Dolio for as little as $65 per person per night, or at Emotions by Hodelpa Puerto Plata from $54 per person per night.

Both are beachfront properties with a variety of all-you-can-eat restaurants, as well as outdoor pools, in-room fridges, microwaves, an on-site fitness center, and a location that’s within easy distance from the airport and major attractions. Members of the Choice Privileges Rewards Program also earn points by staying at either resort.

Pick the right dates, book a few nights, and do the math, and you’ll have gotten yourself a Caribbean vacation that includes airfare, hotel, food, and beverages (yes, even the alcoholic kind) for under $500.

Jamaica

Round-trip flights from Florida to Montego Bay can cost as little as $200, and room rates at the beachfront Royal Decameron, an all-inclusive property on Montego Bay’s lively strip, can dip as low as $90 per night per person for travelers willing to travel in the off-season, between mid-April and mid-December.

The Royal Decameron is within easy walking distance of the city’s best hot spots, shops, and restaurants, though all your food is already taken care of on-site. To stick to your budget, you can also stick to admission-free attractions in Jamaica—including Negril Cliffs and Castleton Gardens—and use local buses and taxis instead of renting a car.

Puerto Rico

You can often find round-trip flights from Miami to San Juan for around $100, and flights from other parts of the east coast are usually under $200 thanks to budget airlines like Spirit that fly there. 

Vacation rentals are the most affordable route as far as accommodations go, and you can find several cheap options that are right on the beach – like this studio in the  Condado Lagoon Villas that costs just $67 per person a night. Companies like CampoMar Van let you rent a camper to explore more of the island, at about $90 per person per night- giving you not only the accommodations for your stay but transportation as well. Park it near the beach for a beachfront property! 

Oahu, Hawaii

Budget airlines like Southwest and Alaskan have made trips to Hawaii affordable. Several times a year, these airlines have sales that bring flights to Hawaii down to less than $300.  (Airfare sites such as Airfarewatchdog, SmarterTravel’s sister site, will alert you when fares drop.)

If you’re lucky enough to snag one of these low fares to Honolulu—or if you’re the lucky owner of a Southwest Companion Pass, which is actually fairly easy to get if you keep an eye out for associated credit card offers—Oahu has worthwhile low-budget lodgings that could help keep your tropical vacation total under $500, including the Coconut Waikiki Hotel, where rates start from just over $50 per person per night. Another option is the Shoreline Hotel Waikiki, where rates start around $65 per person per night.

Once you’re there, Honolulu doesn’t have to be expensive, since the city has plenty of cheap street food and affordable restaurants—Moose McGillycuddy’s is a favorite for low-cost breakfasts—and bus transportation is easy and much less expensive than renting a car. Plus, many of Oahu’s most worthwhile attractions are free, including hiking up Diamond Head, paying tribute at Pearl Harbor’s USS Arizona, and sunbathing on Waikiki Beach.

The Bahamas

It’s always a good time to cruise to the Bahamas. And if you’re setting sail from Florida, you can, without too much effort, find a four-night cruise for about the cost of a single hotel night in any major American city.

A quick Expedia search brings up plenty of three- and four-night sailings from Florida that start under $300 per person, while Cruises.com offers a similar list. Cruise prices typically include all the food you can eat, live entertainment, and calls at ports such as Nassau, Freeport, and, often, private islands belonging to that cruise line. We even found an 8-day cruise departing from Baltimore, Maryland going to the Bahamas for $411 per person! 

US Virgin Islands

Believe it or not, the US Virgin Islands can be affordable! Thanks to budget airline Spirit, you can fly to St. Thomas for under $200 from Fort Lauderdale. 

With about $300 left in your budget, you’ll be able to stay at Lindbergh Bay Hotel and Villas for about four nights with rates averaging about $70 per person each night. The hotel is right on the water and features a pool and restaurant. 

If you can’t leave from Florida, a quick search on Expedia’s vacation packages search shows packages including airfare and hotel for under $500 from New York City, Atlanta, and more. 

Florida

Americans looking to keep their tropical vacations under $500 don’t actually have to leave the contiguous part of their continent to laze on the beach while shaded by palm trees. Orbitz’s list of vacation package deals under $499 usually offers some worthwhile all-inclusive deals to Orlando. Likewise, Travelocity has a dedicated Flight + Hotel Deals Under $400 page that includes various packages to Miami and Orlando, with stays at properties like the Hilton Orlando and the Westgate South Beach Oceanfront Resort.

If you’d rather book airfare and lodging separately, check out Expedia’s round-trip fares to Orlando for less than $100. Couple that with affordable lodgings, like the family-friendly Grove Resort Orlando—around $160 per night for a four-person suite—and you’ve got yourself a memorable tropical trip with the kids that won’t break the bank.

Budget travelers could also opt for a Panama City Beach vacation, to enjoy that destination’s perpetual sunshine, Southern charm, and 27 miles of white sand beaches. Average round-trip airfare into Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport from Atlanta costs $218 per person. And rates at the condo-style Origin at Seahaven, across the street from the beach, can drop as low as $99 per night, making a two-night getaway here cost less than $500.

Tips for Finding All-Inclusive Vacations with Airfare Under $500

Wherever you choose to book your affordable tropical vacation, one key strategy to keeping it under $500 is to understand what average prices look like for where you want to go—and to be ready to buy the minute you see fares that are listed well below that.

“If you’ve been watching for a good fare and you find one, don’t hesitate,” says Jeff Klee, the CEO of CheapAir. “When you go away for a few days or hours to consult with friends, or just continue to shop around, you may be surprised to find that the fare has disappeared while you mulled it over.”

One other tip for keeping vacations under $500, from Klee: “Flexibility is your friend. Unless your trip is for an event tied to a specific set of dates, often just shifting your search dates by a few days can offer big savings. Remember that mid-week flights—Tuesdays and Wednesdays—are usually a much better value than those on the weekend.”

The post 7 Tropical Vacations Under $500, Including Airfare and Hotel appeared first on SmarterTravel.

The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort

Just because you’re on an island doesn’t mean you can’t indulge in the same luxuries you would find at hotels back on the mainland. Take The St. Regis Bora Bora, for instance, where you’re catered to around the clock by the brand’s signature butler service, as well as by pool attendants, who will happily whisk smoothies (or something stronger) straight to your chaise. Celeb chef Jean-Georges is behind the menu at Asian-fusion eatery The Lagoon, where you can watch a show of sharks swimming beneath the glass-paneled restaurant floor. The resort stretches across three “motus,” or islands, with jagged Mount Otemanu rising as a beacon in the distance, and the sparkling turquoise water is on full display from the transparent floors of the overwater villas—the largest in the South Pacific.

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Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora

Most of the hundred-plus bungalows at Four Seasons Bora Bora stand proudly on stilts over the lagoon (and the few that don’t make up for it in size). Modeled after a traditional Polynesian village, the design—dreamt up by a local architect, with the help of Paris- and San Francisco-based design firms—plays on the natural beauty of the lagoon with an indoor-outdoor concept. Think mother of pearl-accented light fixtures (a nod to Tahiti’s infamous black pearls), tattoo- patterned pillows, and sleek teak furnishings. Named No. 1 in French Polynesia in TripAdvisor’s 2019 Travelers’ Choice Awards, the Four Seasons Bora Bora is the quintessential vision of Tahiti: plunge pools and private ladders leading straight from water bungalows down to the tropical fish-filled lagoon—plus lavish spa treatments like a tailored-for-you massage experience.

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InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa

When deciding between InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa’s 84 overwater villas, the main choice you’ll have to make is the view: lagoon, beach or mountains? Traditional architectural touches (bamboo, carved mother of pearl, weavings) remind you you’re in French Polynesia, but the state-of-the-art in-room technology feels as cosmopolitan as New York. A glass-bottomed coffee table doubles as a porthole to the al fresco aquarium below, and sundecks feature outdoor freshwater showers perfect for cooling off in between sunbathing and dips in the lagoon. You can also soak up the views while soaking in your private plunge pool. Another reason to book a stay here: the thalassotherapy center, the first seawater therapy spa in the region that weaves nutrients extracted from the depths of the South Pacific into its ancient Polynesian rituals (performed in glass-bottom treatment rooms, of course). The InterContinental is also home to four new satellite suites with the largest private plunge pools in French Polynesia courtesy of Tahiti’s most exclusive resort—The Brando.

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Conrad Bora Bora Nui

The majority of the high-end resorts in Bora Bora sit on the opposite side of the lagoon, so you won’t have to worry about sharing space—or views. Set on its own private atoll, across from Bora Bora on the southwest end of Motu To’opua, the Conrad Bora Bora Nui offers the largest stretch of sand in the area (spanning nearly half a mile), plus some of Tahiti’s best coral reefs—so snorkeling here is top-notch. Lounge on the pool deck of your overwater private bungalow on a hammock suspended over the sea—or in the sauna if you’ve opted for the presidential villa. Sporting the only two-story, overwater villas in French Polynesia, rooms here feature butler service, three terraces, an infinity pool overlooking the horizon, and a bar area, so you don’t have to go too far to find refreshments for sunset.

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Le Tikehau by Pearl Resorts

French Polynesia is home to six archipelagos, but one of the lesser known (and less crowded) is Tuamotu, 220 miles north of Tahiti. White- and pink-sand islands dot the 177-square-mile lagoon surrounding the Tikehau atoll (population 500), an hour’s flight from Tahiti’s capital. You won’t find modern luxuries at Le Tikehau by Pearl Resorts (sorry, no air-conditioning). But the cool, marine breeze and views of the crystal-clear lagoons make up for it. With only 24 overwater suites and bungalows (which span over 1,000 square feet), you’ll practically have the lagoon all to yourself. If you really want privacy, go for the premium bungalows at the far end of the pontoon, which feature chaise lounges, glass floors, and easy access to the lagoon below.

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Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa

Why choose between sunrise or sunset views when you can have both? That’s the luxury of a stay in one of Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa’s overwater bungalows, which dot the two bays bordering the island of Moorea. The W-shaped string of bungalows offers picture-perfect views of both the lagoon and mountain-lined island, and while the style is still very much classic French Polynesian in design, inside is the complete opposite. Marble-clad bathrooms sport rain showers, claw-foot tubs, and flat-screen TVs loaded with films. The best show is right below your feet, though, thanks to the glass-floor viewing panel.

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Honolulu Resorts Right On the Beach

For stays with spectacular views, endless options for water sports, and morning walks on soft white sand, here are 20 options for gorgeous Honolulu resorts right on the beach or just a quick trip away.

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The Royal Hawaiian, A Luxury Collection Resort

Honolulu’s iconic pink palace, The Royal Hawaiian not only enjoys a prime position right on the beach in Waikiki, but also has a rich history to go with it. A place of celebration for King Kamehameha I when he conquered Oahu, its Coconut Grove garden is also the former site of Queen Kaahumanu’s Summer Palace. With gorgeous, distinctive Spanish Moorish architecture, this landmark 528-room property boasts 18 oceanfront suites, a full-service spa, three restaurants, and a bakery. A stay at this Honolulu beach resort puts you right in the heart of all the Waikiki action, with endless photo ops for that perfect Instagram moment.

Amenities: Direct beach access, swimming pool, fresh flower lei on arrival, Italian brand-name Frette bathrobes, free Wi-Fi, turndown service, Malie organic toiletries, in-room tea, and Kona coffee.

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Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa, Waikiki Beach

Built in 1901, the Moana Surfrider, located right on Waikiki’s famous white sand beach, is the grand dame of Honolulu beach resorts. Known as the “The First Lady of Waikiki,” this landmark Victorian hotel has been synonymous with luxurious Waikiki stays for more than a century. Completely refurbished in 2014, the 793-room property has 36 oceanfront balcony suites, a 18,000-square-foot oceanfront spa, a wedding chapel, a freshwater pool, and dreamy Heavenly beds. Nightly live entertainment, performed underneath tea lights strung across the property’s 100-plus-year-old banyan tree, is an attraction unto itself.

Amenities: Beach bar, workout facility, free Wi-Fi, 32-inch LCD flat-screen TV, robe and slippers, mini refrigerator, and 24-hour laundry service. 

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Halekulani

The epitome of luxury Honolulu beach resorts, Halekulani (which means “house befitting heaven”) occupies five acres of prime oceanfront real estate right in the heart of Waikiki. With spacious rooms decorated in the hotel’s calming, signature seven shades of white, the hotel is an oasis of island refinement within Waikiki’s generally bustling domain. Renowned for exemplary features like its three restaurants and two cocktail lounges, as well as its iconic heated pool made with an orchid-shaped mosaic of 1.2 million pieces of glass tiles on its floor, it doesn’t get any better than the Halekulani.

Amenities: Marble vanities, soaking tubs, premium toiletries, plush bathrobe and slippers, balcony, free Wi-Fi, on-site laundry facility, florist, complimentary fitness center with free fitness classes, and complimentary admission to local museums. 

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Kahala Hotel & Resort

Set away from the main Waikiki drag in the affluent Kahala community, the Kahala Resort is one of the most prestigious Honolulu beach resorts. With its own secluded beach and a lagoon where guests can swim with the dolphins, this resort provides luxury oceanfront accommodation with appeal for families and couples alike. The spacious rooms feature a private balcony with incredible views of the ocean and Diamond Head. Bathrooms feature large, sunken tubs, magic toilets and separate showers. Guests also receive free access to the fitness center, steam room, and sauna, with free shuttle service to nearby attractions.

Amenities: Bathrobe and slippers, luxury toiletries, free Wi-Fi, 42-inch flat-screen TVs, iHome clock radios, refrigerated mini bar, bedside USB charging stations, free access to the fitness center, nightly turndown service, daily newspaper, tea & coffee in lobby, and 24-hour business center.

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Sheraton Waikiki

A sprawling 31-story Honolulu resort occupying prime real estate on Waikiki Beach, the 1,636-room, fully renovated Sheraton Waikiki is a veritable beachfront playground for families and couples alike. Contemporary furnishings and comfortable rooms aside, the main draw at this resort are the pools. Kid-friendly Helumoa Playground features two large freshwater pools, two whirlpool Jacuzzis and a waterslide.

For adults, the clincher is the gorgeous, adults-only infinity pool, a spectacular vantage point from which to watch the sunset. A spa, gym, and free internet in public spaces, not to mention a mini on-site shopping mall and several restaurants, round out the package.

Amenities: Beach access, club level, kids’ activities, spa, fitness facility, and cultural activities such as lei making and hula lessons.

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Kaimana Beach Hotel

A recently completed, seven-year, multimillion-dollar renovation makes this Honolulu beach resort one of the best value properties in Waikiki. Located on the Eastern edge of Waikiki, this 122-room Honolulu beach resort is fronted by the very swimmable Sans Souci beach. A mid-range hotel that’s perfect for families, the contemporary rooms are light, bright, and feature balconies with incredible views of the ocean and Diamond Head. Though there is no pool, the resort’s Hau Tree Lanai Restaurant is excellent. And since it’s walking distance from Kapiolani Park, Honolulu Zoo, and the Aquarium, there’s plenty to see and do.

Amenities: Beachfront, free Wi-Fi, HDTV with cable, private balconies, daily housekeeping service, full-service spa, and onsite coffee shop.

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Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort

Stepping out the back door of this beach resort puts you directly onto Waikiki Beach’s famous soft, white sand. A lively, bustling Honolulu beach resort with easy access to surf lessons and all manner of water sports, this is one of those places where everything is designed to make you not need to leave the property. In addition to a spa, swimming pool, and Hawaiian cultural activities on-property, this resort is also home to Duke’s Waikiki, one of Honolulu’s best restaurants for drinking mai tais barefoot while watching the sunset.

Amenities: 24-hour fitness center, laundry facility, self-service business center, free Wi-Fi, Hawaiian vow renewal ceremony, on-site retail shops, and restaurants.

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Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort

With more than 90 retail shops, 20 bars and restaurants, five swimming pools, a spa, as well as a Friday night Starlight Luau and fireworks show, “village” is an apt description for this massive 3,386-room Honolulu beach resort. Perfect for families with children where convenience is key, there’s something here for everyone: waterslides, a koi pond, a fitness center, Hawaiian cultural activities, live music, and more. The best part, of course, is that it’s right on the beach. And, it has its own saltwater lagoon for paddle-boarding.

Amenities: Mobility accessible room options, children’s activities, water sports, live shows and entertainment, an outdoor luau, and on-site convenience store, and Ali’i, a boutique tower with upgraded amenities and privileges within the resort.

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Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort

Situated on the quieter end of Waikiki Beach, this family-friendly Honolulu beach resort checks all the boxes. The location is excellent. You’re right on the beach. There’s a pool with three Jacuzzis and Honolulu’s best shopping and tons of restaurants are within a block of the hotel. Most rooms feature balconies with spectacular ocean views. Though the rooms could use an upgrade in terms of decor, the onsite activities (which include free hula and ukulele lessons, as well as access to activities like snorkeling, hiking, and helicopter tours) make for a memorable stay.

Amenities: Valet parking, private poolside cabanas, event space, free Wi-Fi, Outrigger Waikiki Connection Trolley (included with resort fee), Hawaiian vow renewal ceremony, spa, and on-site retail shops and restaurants.

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Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach

Alohilani (previously known as the Pacific Beach Hotel) offers chic, spa-like rooms, each with its own private balcony and expansive views of the ocean and/or Diamond Head. Across the Kalakauha street from the Kuhio beach section of Waikiki, a main feature of the hotel is the 280,000 gallon Oceanarium. But it also comes with other creature comforts, including a full-service spa, a saltwater infinity pool, a Kid’s club and kiddie pool, and a fitness center complete with tennis courts and yoga classes. Foodies will also love the two restaurants— one casual, one fine dining—by Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto. Bonus: Alohilani Resort is powered by 100% renewable electricity, and has pledged to plant 100,000 indigenous trees with the Hawaii Legacy Reforestation Initiative. So don’t be surprised when you see a $5 “tree fee” on your bill.

Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, a private lanai, free Wi-Fi, refrigerators, 50- or 55-inch HD flat-screen TVs, in-room safe, a gym facility with locker room, tennis courts and group fitness, and eco-friendly water bottles.  

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Hilton Grand Vacations Club at Hilton Hawaiian Village

Part of Hawaii’s largest self-contained beachfront resort, Hilton Grand Vacations Suites at Hilton Hawaiian Village is the perfect spot for your Honolulu vacation. There is so much to do and see within the resort that you will have no reason to leave while staying there. Try your hand at scuba diving, take a hula dancing class, or learn how to play the ukulele—all within the resort grounds! 

Amenities: Kitchenettes, full kitchens, four pools, paddle boarding, twenty restaurants, weekly fireworks, fitness center, spa, yoga, hula dancing, and ukulele lessons.

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Hyatt Regency Resort and Spa Waikiki 

Not only does the Hyatt Regency Waikiki house some of the biggest hotel rooms in Waikiki, but every room features a private lanai to sit on and enjoy the views of Honolulu. Choose from a variety of suites and guestrooms, all with stunning scenery from the windows. You’ll have plenty to do, from shopping, dining by the ocean, or getting a treatment like the Champagne Body Scrub or a massage at the spa. 

Amenities: Fitness center, restaurants, shopping, pools with cabanas, pet-friendly, spa, weekday classes in lei making, ukulele, and hula, beach chairs and towels. 

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Prince Waikiki

Immerse yourself in luxury when you stay at Prince Waikiki. Relax on their signature pool deck before taking a dip in the adults-only infinity pool. You can take in the artwork throughout the resort, commissioned and created specifically to “perpetuate the history and story” of the location in a “sophisticated and authentic” way. Participate in one of the many activities offered at the resort, including their Cocokealohi Workshop, where you will make your very own pāpale nui—a hand woven coconut palm hat. Choose from a variety of rooms and suites to cater to your needs during your stay. 

Amenities: Fitness center, library, pet-friendly, resort shops, Biki Bike and Go X Scooter use, Sheer and blackout remote control blinds, children 5 and under eat free, spa, golf, four restaurants. 

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The Twin Fin

Steps away from the beach, The Twin Fin is located across from Kuhio Beach Park, which features a calmer, relaxing reef on one side and a wavier oceanside for surfers on the other. The modern accommodations feature suites and regular rooms to fit whatever needs you have. Have breakfast while enjoying 180 degree panoramic ocean views at the Coconut Club, located on the 21st Floor. During your stay, earn Beach Candy credits, which can be used towards beach rentals including umbrellas, surfboards, paddleboards, and more. 

Amenities: Beach rentals, reef safe sunscreen, fitness center, five on-site restaurants, complimentary reusable water bottles, and pool.

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Modern Honolulu 

Located at the gateway to Waikiki Beach, the Modern Honolulu has all you need for the perfect Honolulu getaway. During your stay, if you spend $125 in food and beverage, you will get an all-day cabana for free. Your stay at the Modern will feel truly unique, as all of the furnishings and designings of the hotel are custom and unique—they use no stock furnishings. The hotel was named winner of the American Resort Development Association Award for Best Resort Interior Design in 2021.

Amenities: Pool, fitness center, on-site restaurants, and spa. 

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Hyatt Centric

Relax with gorgeous views atop the Rooftop Splash lounge with private cabanas on the 8th floor of the Hyatt Centric, or enjoy the evening around the firepit—no matter how you choose to spend time outside, you will feel taken care of during your stay. Participate in morning yoga, lei making, or get a bite to eat at one of the hotel’s three restaurants. For extra space during your stay, choose from one of the thirty-three suites, which include a separate sitting area for some extra space during your stay. 

Amenities: Fitness center, splash lounge, cabanas, on-site restaurants, business center, and pet-friendly. 

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The Laylow

Your comfort is at the forefront during your stay at The Laylow, where “midcentury modern style meets present-day Hawaiian charm.” Spend the day lounging by the saltwater pool, or cozy up by the fire pit on a lanai in the garden— whatever you choose, you are sure to not regret “laying low” during your time at this Marriott Autograph Collection hotel. Enjoy live music without stepping foot outside of the hotel grounds. On days you feel like leaving, there is plenty to do in the surrounding area, from beaches, and tours, to shopping at the international marketplace with your special discount booklet you can obtain by showing your hotel key at the customer service kiosk. 

Amenities:  E Komo Mai Basket upon arrival, nightly live entertainment, cruiser bicycles, fitness center, pool, on-site restaurants. 

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Queen Kapiolani Hotel

Just a ten minute walk away from Waikiki Beach, this 315-room, 19-story hotel offers guestrooms and suites with ocean and city views. Guests are welcome to unwind on the third floor terrace lounge, complete with views of Diamond Head, a large swimming pool, and their DECK Restaurant & Bar. Take advantage of their on-site yoga classes, just $10 for guests, and follow it up with a drink and a snack at Knots Coffee Roasters and Wine Bar.

Amenities: Fitness center, event space, room service, high speed Wi-Fi, yoga gear, free reusable water bottles, in-room refrigerator

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Bamboo Waikiki

The Bamboo Waikiki has 96 guest rooms, from studios with kitchenettes to luxury 1-bedroom suites, all featuring private balconies. Only a five minutes walk from Waikiki Beach, this hotel is a little slice of paradise in its own right, with tropical gardens, waterfalls, and poolside dining.

Amenties: Laundry facilities, in-room coffee maker, in-room microwave, flat-screen TVs, private balconies, picnic tables available for use

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The Equus Hotel

Not one for enormous resorts? Book a more intimate stay at The Equus, a family-owned and operated hotel with just 67 rooms and suites. Enjoy local live music Fridays or Saturdays at The Paniolo Bar & Cafe in the lobby or take a stroll to nearby Kahanamoku Beach. The Equus is also just under 25 minutes via public transit from Waikiki Beach and the Honolulu Zoo, as well as just a five minute walk from Ala Moana Beach Park.

Amenities: Welcome drink upon arrival, VIP tickets to Hawaii Polo Club, high speed Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, in-room mini-fridge, biodegradable bath amenities

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The post 20 Gorgeous Hotels & Resorts in Honolulu appeared first on SmarterTravel.