The location of the Polynesian Hostel is the envy of finer hotels in Waikiki - the Polynesian Hostel is just half a block from Kapiolani Park and the Honolulu Zoo and one street from Kuhio Beach. Fanciful murals brighten up the stairwells and a patio downstairs has hammocks for napping, a pay phone, coin-operated laundry and stacks of beach toys.

The common room upstairs has cable TV. The friendly staff works hard to match you with roommates you'll like and activities you'll enjoy. Bigger hostels might offer more to do, but for a quiet bed between stints at the beach, it's hard to find a better place than the Polynesian Hostel.