The 5 Best Hostels in Honolulu, Hawaii (Updated 2025)

Honolulu, the vibrant capital of Hawaii, is a dream destination for travellers seeking sun, sand, and adventure. For those on a budget, the city offers some of the best hostels in Honolulu, providing affordable stays without compromising on comfort. These hostels are perfect for backpackers and solo travellers looking to explore the island’s stunning beaches, rich culture, and lively nightlife. With friendly atmospheres and convenient locations, they make it easy to meet fellow travellers while keeping costs low.

Hostels in Honolulu cater to a variety of preferences, from party focused stays to quieter, more relaxed environments. Many are located near Waikiki Beach, putting guests just steps away from the ocean. Dormitory style rooms are common, but private options are also available for those wanting extra privacy. Free Wi Fi, communal kitchens, and social events are standard features, making these hostels a great choice for budget conscious visitors.

Staying in a hostel is also a fantastic way to experience Honolulu like a local. Staff often share insider tips on hidden gems, from lesser-known beaches to affordable eateries. The laid-back vibe of these hostels encourages guests to connect and share travel stories, creating a sense of community. Whether you’re hiking Diamond Head or surfing in Waikiki, you’ll find a hostel that suits your needs.

The best hostels in Honolulu stand out for their cleanliness, safety, and excellent service. Reviews often highlight helpful staff, clean facilities, and prime locations. Some even offer free breakfast or bike rentals, adding extra value to your stay. For travellers wanting to stretch their budget further, these hostels provide an unbeatable combination of affordability and quality.

Quick Introduction to Hostels in Honolulu

For budget-conscious visitors, hostels offer an affordable way to stay in the heart of the action. The best hostels in Honolulu provide a mix of social vibes, comfort, and great locations, making them ideal for backpackers and solo travellers.

Here are some of the things you should consider before booking a hostel in Honolulu:

Price - Dorm beds in Honolulu hostels typically cost between €33 and €45 per night, while private rooms range from €80 to €130. Prices vary depending on the season, with peak times being more expensive. Many hostels offer discounts for longer stays, making them a smart choice for travellers watching their budget.

Amenities & Services - Most hostels include free Wi-Fi, communal kitchens, and laundry facilities. Some also organise social events like beach trips or group dinners, helping guests meet new people. Extras like free breakfast, bike rentals, and luggage storage add value, ensuring a hassle-free stay for those exploring the island.

Location - The best hostels are clustered around Waikiki, just minutes from the beach, shops, and nightlife. Public transport and popular attractions, such as Diamond Head and Honolulu Zoo, are easily accessible. Staying in this area means less time commuting and more time enjoying the sun, sea, and city life.

Staff - Friendly and knowledgeable staff are a highlight of Honolulu’s hostels. They often give great local tips, from the best surf spots to affordable food markets. Their welcoming attitude helps create a relaxed atmosphere, making travellers feel at home while discovering the island’s hidden gems.

Best Hostels in Honolulu - Quick Answers

Here's a summary of the best hostels in Honolulu, organised into different categories:

Overall Best Hostel in Honolulu - The Beach Waikiki by ALOH
Best Cheap Hostel in Honolulu - Polynesian Hostel Beach Club Waikiki
Best Party Hostel in Honolulu - The Beach Waikiki by ALOH
Best Hostel in Honolulu for Solo Female Travellers - Seaside Women's Hostel
Best Hostel in Honolulu for Digital Nomads - Waikiki Beachside Hostel

The Best Hostels in Honolulu, Hawaii

Here’s my comprehensive guide to the 5 best hostels in Honolulu:

1. The Beach Waikiki by ALOH

Located just a short stroll from Waikiki Beach, The Beach Waikiki by ALOH offers the perfect mix of convenience and island charm. With its relaxed, surf-inspired vibe, it attracts travellers looking to soak up Honolulu’s sun, sand, and laid-back energy. The open-air common areas and friendly staff create a welcoming atmosphere, while the nightly social events—from live music to group BBQs—make it easy to meet fellow adventurers. A standout feature is its rooftop deck, where guests can unwind with ocean views and sunset cocktails.

Rooms: The hostel offers both shared dorms and private rooms, all kept clean and comfortable. Dorms feature sturdy bunk beds with privacy curtains, while private rooms provide a cosy retreat after a day of exploring. Air conditioning and secure lockers ensure a hassle-free stay.

Services & Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, a communal kitchen, and daily housekeeping keep things convenient. Guests can also rent surfboards and bikes, join free yoga sessions, or get local tips from the 24-hour front desk. The on-site café serves great coffee and healthy bites.

Who it’s for: Solo travellers, surfers, and groups who want a social yet relaxed base near the beach.

A Quick Overview of Honolulu Hostel

Prime Location – Just minutes from Waikiki Beach, shops, and nightlife, making exploration effortless.
Rooftop Deck – A breezy spot with ocean views, perfect for sunset drinks and socialising.
Surf-Friendly Vibe – Surfboard rentals, beach gear storage, and a laid-back, sun-soaked atmosphere.
Social Events – Regular BBQs, live music, and group outings to help guests connect.
Comfortable Rooms – Clean dorms with privacy curtains and private rooms for those needing extra space.
Helpful Extras – Free Wi-Fi, bike rentals, yoga sessions, and a handy on-site café for quick meals.

Private rooms from €123, Dorm beds from €45
Check Prices On Hostelworld!

2. Seaside Women's Hostel

Tucked away in a quiet yet convenient spot just two blocks from Waikiki Beach, Seaside Women's Hostel, a female-only hostel, offers a peaceful retreat with a welcoming, community-focused vibe. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, perfect for solo female travellers looking for both security and social connections. Unique touches like complimentary beach gear and weekly group activities—from sunrise yoga to cultural workshops—make it stand out.

Rooms: Bright, airy dormitories feature comfortable bunk beds with privacy curtains, personal reading lights, and secure lockers. Linens are provided, and the shared bathrooms are kept spotlessly clean. The hostel also offers a limited number of private rooms for those wanting extra space.

Services & Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, a fully equipped communal kitchen, and laundry facilities add convenience. Guests enjoy free use of towels, beach mats, and snorkel sets. The hostel also arranges discounted surf lessons and island tours.

Who it's for: Female travellers seeking a safe, supportive environment with opportunities to make new friends.

A Quick Overview of Seaside Women's Hostel

Female-Only Space – A secure, women-only environment designed for comfort and camaraderie.
Prime Location – Just a short walk from Waikiki Beach, with easy access to shops and cafes.
Complimentary Beach Gear – Free use of towels, snorkels, and mats for hassle-free beach days.
Social & Cultural Activities – Regular events like group dinners, yoga sessions, and lei-making workshops.
Spotless Facilities – Well-maintained dorms and bathrooms, with fresh linens provided.
Thoughtful Extras – Discounted tours, a cosy lounge area, and a helpful 24/7 front desk.

Dorm beds from €35
Check Prices On Hostelworld!

3. Waikiki Beachside Hostel

Situated just 200 meters from the golden sands of Waikiki Beach, Waikiki Beachside Hostel delivers unbeatable ocean access with a lively, backpacker-friendly atmosphere. The open-air lobby and communal patio create an instant holiday vibe, where guests swap travel stories under swaying palm trees. What sets it apart? Free daily pancake breakfasts and weekly Hawaiian cultural nights featuring ukulele lessons and hula dancing.

Rooms: Choose from mixed or female-only dorms with sturdy wooden bunks, each with privacy curtains and personal charging stations. Private twin rooms offer air conditioning and ensuite bathrooms – rare treats in budget accommodation. All rooms include free secure luggage storage.

Services & Facilities: Enjoy free Wi-Fi, beach gear rentals (towels, coolers), and a guest kitchen with BBQ area. The 24-hour reception offers tour bookings and local tips, while the hostel's free surfboard storage makes wave-chasing easy.

Who it's for: Budget-conscious beach lovers and social travelers wanting an authentic Hawaiian experience.

A Quick Overview of Waikiki Beachside Hostel

Beachfront Location – Mere steps from Waikiki's surf and sunset spots, with Diamond Head views
Hawaiian Cultural Immersion – Weekly activities like lei-making classes and traditional music nights
Social Breakfasts – Complimentary pancake mornings that turn strangers into friends
Surf-Friendly Amenities – Board storage, outdoor showers, and partner discounts at surf schools
Flexible Room Options – From social dorms to private ensuite twins, catering to all traveler types
24/7 Convenience – Round-the-clock reception, security, and free luggage hold for early arrivals/late departures

The hostel's combination of perfect location, cultural activities, and practical beach amenities makes it a top choice for experiencing Waikiki on a budget.

Private rooms from €134, Dorm beds from €43
Check Prices On Hostelworld!

4. Honu Waikiki by ALOH

Nestled in the heart of Waikiki just 300 meters from the beach, Honu Waikiki by ALOH blends urban convenience with laid-back island vibes. The open-air lounge with its mural-covered walls and hammocks creates an instant holiday mood, while the nightly social events (think sushi-making classes and acoustic jam sessions) foster a tight-knit traveller community. The hostel stands out with its professional co-working space – perfect for digital nomads.

Rooms: Choose between mixed dorms with pod-style bunks featuring privacy screens and reading lights, or private rooms with minimalist Hawaiian decor. All accommodations include air conditioning, personal lockers, and surprisingly plush bedding for a hostel stay.

Services & Facilities: Enjoy fast free Wi-Fi, a fully-equipped guest kitchen, and complimentary beach gear. The hostel offers surfboard storage, free yoga classes on the rooftop, and partnerships with local eco-tour operators.

Who it's for: Young professionals, surf enthusiasts, and design-conscious travellers who want style without sacrificing social opportunities.

A Quick Overview of Honu Waikiki by ALOH

Design-Led Spaces – Instagram-worthy common areas blending urban art with Hawaiian influences
Work & Play Balance – Dedicated co-working space alongside vibrant social programming
Surf Culture Hub – Board storage, repair station, and partnerships with top surf schools
Wellness Focus – Regular rooftop yoga sessions and wellness workshops
Local Partnerships – Exclusive discounts at nearby organic cafes and sustainable tours
Smart Room Design – Thoughtful touches like USB charging ports and blackout curtains in dorms

With its perfect mix of productivity spaces and holiday vibes, Honu Waikiki redefines what budget accommodation can offer in Hawaii's most famous beach district.

Private rooms from €82, Dorm beds from €42
Check Prices On Hostelworld!

5. Polynesian Hostel Beach Club Waikiki

Located just a 5-minute walk from Waikiki Beach, Polynesian Hostel Beach Club Waikiki immerses guests in true Polynesian culture with its thatched-roof common areas and nightly ukulele performances. The atmosphere feels like a traditional Hawaiian village, complete with tiki torches and flower leis at check-in. What makes it special? Their free weekly luau feast, where guests learn to hula under the stars.

Rooms: The air-conditioned dorms feature hand-carved wooden bunk beds with privacy curtains and Polynesian-inspired textiles. Private "hale" (bungalow-style) rooms offer ensuite bathrooms and mini-fridges. All rooms include free towels and beach mats – rare hostel luxuries.

Services & Facilities: Enjoy free breakfast, a cultural activity calendar, and unlimited local coffee. The hostel provides beach gear rentals, free surfboard storage, and a communal kitchen with tropical fruit often left for guests.

Who it's for: Culture seekers and social butterflies wanting an authentic Hawaiian experience.

A Quick Overview of Polynesian Hostel Beach Club Waikiki

Cultural Immersion – Daily activities like lei-making, ukulele lessons, and traditional storytelling
Prime Beach Access – Short stroll to Waikiki with free beach equipment provided
Unique Accommodation – Handcrafted wooden bunks and private "hale" bungalows
Social Luau Nights – Weekly feast with live music and hula performances
Thoughtful Extras – Complimentary breakfast, coffee, and fresh tropical fruit
Local Expertise – Staff arrange unique experiences like outrigger canoe adventures

This hostel stands out for keeping Polynesian traditions alive while offering modern comforts. From the moment you're greeted with a shell necklace to joining the farewell song circle, every detail celebrates Hawaii's rich heritage. The combination of cultural activities, beach convenience, and warm hospitality makes it perfect for travellers seeking more than just a place to sleep.

Private rooms from €79, Dorm beds from €33
Check Prices On Hostelworld!

Final Thoughts on the Best Hostels in Honolulu

Honolulu is a dream destination with its golden beaches, lush landscapes, and vibrant city life. For travellers looking to explore without overspending, the best hostels in Honolulu offer an unbeatable mix of affordability, comfort, and social energy. Whether you’re a solo backpacker or a group of friends, these hostels provide a welcoming base to experience the island’s magic.

Staying in a hostel means more than just saving money—it’s about connecting with fellow travellers and sharing adventures. Many hostels organise group outings, from sunrise hikes to surf lessons, making it easy to create unforgettable memories. The laid-back atmosphere encourages new friendships, turning strangers into travel buddies over shared stories and island explorations.

Location is another big advantage, with most top hostels just steps from Waikiki Beach. Waking up to the sound of waves and having shops, cafes, and nightlife within walking distance adds convenience to your stay. Plus, helpful staff are always on hand to recommend hidden spots you won’t find in guidebooks.

If you’re planning a trip to Honolulu, choosing one of the best hostels in Honolulu ensures a budget-friendly yet enriching experience. With great amenities, prime locations, and a friendly vibe, they prove that affordable travel doesn’t mean missing out. Pack your bags, book your bunk, and get ready to fall in love with Hawaii’s aloha spirit.

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