In an area filled with unremarkable “family-friendly” hotels, the Halekulani stands out as a true gem. This nearly 100-year-old hotel is located right on Waikiki’s golden shore, attracting recent guests such as Bette Midler, Matt Lauer and Cuba Gooding Jr. The addition of a Vera Wang boutique reflects the hotel’s up-and-coming status. The lobby is lush with greenery and water, but it pales in comparison to the amazing orchid pool. More than one million glass tiles were used to create the famous orchid mosaic that floats on the pool’s bottom. The guest rooms at the Halekulani feature rattan furniture, subtly patterned carpeting and individual lanais with views of Diamond Head, the mountains or the water. Sway to live Hawaiian music at the indoor/outdoor House Without a Key, but save room for the French-inspired seafood at La Mer – the only restaurant in all of Hawaii awarded Five Diamonds.