If you’re living in Hawaii or planning a visit, having access to top-quality healthcare is essential. Hawaii, known for its tropical beauty and vibrant culture, is also home to some of the most advanced and trusted hospitals in the United States. Whether it’s an emergency, specialized treatment, maternity care, or regular check-ups, the right hospital can make a huge difference in your well-being.
In this article, we explore the Top 7 Best Hospitals in Hawaii, ranked based on patient care, specialties, performance ratings, and trust.
1. The Queen’s Medical Center – Honolulu
Location: Honolulu, Oahu
Specialties: Cardiology, Neurosciences, Trauma Care, Oncology, Orthopedics
Type: Nonprofit, Private
Bed Capacity: 575+ Beds
The Queen’s Medical Center is not just the largest hospital in Hawaii—it’s also the most prestigious. This Level I Trauma Center is the only one of its kind in the state, offering world-class services in areas like stroke care, cancer treatment, neurosurgery, and heart conditions. It has consistently been ranked as the #1 hospital in Hawaii by U.S. News & World Report for over a decade.
Patients from across the Hawaiian Islands often travel to Queen’s for its advanced equipment, expert medical professionals, and comprehensive care. It’s also home to the Queen’s Cancer Center and Queen Emma Clinics, which serve patients regardless of their ability to pay.
2. Kaiser Permanente Moanalua Medical Center – Honolulu
Location: Moanalua Valley, Honolulu
Specialties: General Surgery, Stroke, Pulmonology, Cardiac Care
Type: Private (Kaiser Permanente)
Bed Capacity: 295 Beds
This high-performing hospital is a top choice for many Kaiser Permanente members. Recognized for its efficiency, quality outcomes, and safety, Moanalua Medical Center provides modern care through integrated technology and a dedicated care team. It offers exceptional stroke treatment, surgical services, and chronic disease management.
The hospital also receives top marks from CMS (Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services), consistently scoring a 5-star rating for overall hospital quality.
3. Straub Medical Center – Honolulu
Location: Honolulu
Specialties: Gastroenterology, Neurology, Pulmonary Care, Urology
Type: Nonprofit (Hawai‘i Pacific Health)
Bed Capacity: 159 Beds
Straub Medical Center has built a strong reputation for its patient-first philosophy and advanced specialty departments. It is known for being in the top 5% of U.S. hospitals according to Healthgrades and provides high-quality care in GI surgery, neurosciences, and minimally invasive procedures.
The hospital’s team of board-certified specialists and advanced medical technology ensures reliable diagnosis and treatment with shorter recovery times.
4. Pali Momi Medical Center – Aiea
Location: Aiea, O‘ahu
Specialties: Cardiology, Emergency Care, Retina Center, Imaging
Type: Nonprofit (Hawai‘i Pacific Health)
Bed Capacity: 126 Beds
Pali Momi is known for its innovative emergency services, having the state’s first Physician-in-Triage model that speeds up patient care in urgent situations. The hospital’s Heart Center, advanced imaging services, and Retina Center make it a top choice for specialized treatment.
Its central location on O‘ahu makes it easily accessible to patients across the island.
5. Adventist Health Castle – Kailua
Location: Kailua, Windward O‘ahu
Specialties: Women’s Health, Surgery, Cardiology, Behavioral Health
Type: Nonprofit (Faith-based)
Bed Capacity: 160 Beds
Adventist Health Castle is famous for its patient satisfaction ratings and holistic approach to healing. It was recognized with the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award, the highest national honor for performance excellence in healthcare.
Offering services like joint replacement, pain management, and mental health care, Castle is a go-to hospital for families seeking compassionate and faith-based treatment.
6. Tripler Army Medical Center – Honolulu
Location: Moanalua, Honolulu
Specialties: Military Medicine, Surgery, OB/GYN, Pediatrics
Type: Federal/Military
Bed Capacity: 230+ Beds
Tripler is the largest military hospital in the Pacific Basin and offers care to both military personnel and eligible civilians. It serves as the headquarters for Regional Health Command-Pacific, offering a wide range of specialty services including maternal care, surgery, and mental health services.
With its iconic pink exterior, Tripler is a critical healthcare hub for U.S. Armed Forces stationed throughout Asia and the Pacific.
7. Kapiolani Medical Center for Women & Children – Honolulu
Location: Honolulu
Specialties: Neonatal ICU, Pediatrics, Women’s Health, Obstetrics
Type: Nonprofit (Hawai‘i Pacific Health)
Bed Capacity: 207 Beds
Kapiolani is Hawaii’s leading maternity and pediatric hospital. From neonatal intensive care to pediatric oncology, the hospital provides comprehensive care to children and mothers. It has a 24/7 Pediatric ER and a highly trained team of specialists in various disciplines.
Expectant mothers, infants, and young children receive personalized, compassionate care in a safe and family-friendly environment.
🏅 Bonus Mentions: Great Hospitals in Other Hawaiian Islands
- Wilcox Medical Center – Līhuʻe, Kauaʻi: One of the few CMS 5-star rated hospitals, offering quality general care to Kaua‘i residents.
- Maui Memorial Medical Center – Wailuku, Maui: The island’s largest hospital with strong emergency and surgery departments.
- North Hawaii Community Hospital – Waimea, Big Island: A facility affiliated with Queen’s Health, focusing on patient-centered care.
✅ Conclusion: Choosing the Right Hospital in Hawaii
Whether you need emergency care, long-term treatment, surgery, or pediatric services, Hawaii has a range of hospitals that meet global standards. These hospitals are not only equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, but they also reflect the Aloha spirit—a deep sense of care, respect, and community.
By choosing any of the top 7 hospitals in Hawaii, you can trust that you’re in safe hands.
📌 FAQs – Hospitals in Hawaii
Q1. What is the best hospital in Hawaii?
A: The Queen’s Medical Center in Honolulu is widely regarded as the best hospital in Hawaii due to its advanced trauma center, specialty care, and long-standing reputation.
Q2. Which hospital is best for childbirth and pediatrics in Hawaii?
A: Kapiolani Medical Center for Women & Children is the top choice for maternity and pediatric care.
Q3. Are there military hospitals in Hawaii?
A: Yes, Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu serves military personnel and their families, offering full-spectrum care.
Q4. Which hospitals in Hawaii are nonprofit?
A: Queen’s Medical Center, Straub, Pali Momi, and Adventist Health Castle are all nonprofit hospitals focused on community-based healthcare.
Q5. What are the top private hospitals in Hawaii?
A: Kaiser Permanente Moanalua Medical Center is a leading private hospital known for high performance and patient outcomes.