The Laylow, Autograph Collection

When a hotel goes so far as to call itself The Laylow, there’s no mistaking what kind of vibe they’re aiming for. This one leans hard into Waikiki’s mid-century heritage, evoking the glamour of the era when Hawaii was just about as exotic an escape as most Americans could ever hope to see. And for all its throwback modernist good looks, it’s perhaps somewhat surprising that it’s no small-batch boutique, but a member of Marriott’s Autograph Collection.

Though quite central, it’s set back a couple of streets from Waikiki Beach itself, which really does help with the whole “lay low” thing — you’re close enough to the heart of the action to join in more or less at will, but you’ve also got just a measure of seclusion. The rooms and suites are a perfect blend of utopian modernism and tasteful tropical charm, and if they’re not exactly ostentatious, they are quietly luxurious.

Hideout is the restaurant, and it’s devoted to a similarly clubby atmosphere; unlike many hotel restaurants it’s a valid option for locals as well, serving contemporary Asian-Fusion cuisine. And with a pool that comes complete with half-submerged chaises, you just might find yourself hiding out instead of venturing to the beach.