Hawaii’s healthcare landscape is unique. As an island state, access to quality care is crucial—and the leading hospitals in Hawaii rise to that challenge. Whether it’s trauma care, maternity services, chronic disease management, or specialized surgery, Hawaii’s top hospitals provide world-class medical care despite geographic limitations. Concentrated mostly on the island of Oʻahu, these hospitals are not only vital for the state’s residents but also serve as regional hubs for neighboring islands and even the Pacific region. Below are the top five hospitals in Hawaii, ranked based on performance, specialty services, reputation, and patient outcomes.
1. The Queen’s Medical Center – Honolulu
The Queen’s Medical Center in Honolulu is consistently ranked as the number one hospital in Hawaii by U.S. News & World Report and is considered the flagship hospital of the state. Founded in 1859 by Queen Emma and King Kamehameha IV, Queen’s has grown into a 575-bed nonprofit medical center that provides a comprehensive range of medical services. It is the only Level I trauma center in Hawaii, which means it can treat the most severe emergencies and injuries 24/7. Queen’s is also the only hospital in the state designated as a comprehensive stroke center and has received national recognition for its expertise in neurology, cardiology, oncology, and orthopedic care. In addition, it is Magnet-recognized for nursing excellence, which speaks to its high standard of patient care. The Queen’s Medical Center serves not just Oʻahu but also patients from neighboring islands and other parts of the Pacific, making it a central player in Hawaii’s healthcare network.
2. Straub Benioff Medical Center – Honolulu
Straub Benioff Medical Center, also located in Honolulu, is part of the Hawaii Pacific Health network and stands out for its personalized and efficient patient care. It is consistently ranked among the top hospitals in Hawaii and was named one of America’s 250 Best Hospitals by Healthgrades. With 159 beds, Straub may not be the largest, but it is certainly one of the most respected. It provides a wide range of specialties, including cardiovascular services, urology, gastroenterology, pulmonary care, and cranial neurosurgery. Straub also boasts one of the best records in the state for patient safety, having received awards for low complication and mortality rates in various procedures. What makes Straub especially notable is its focus on integrated care. Its connection to a network of clinics and specialists across the islands ensures that patients receive streamlined services, from outpatient diagnostics to complex surgeries. The hospital’s commitment to community care, innovation, and continuous improvement makes it a cornerstone of healthcare on Oʻahu.
3. Kaiser Permanente Moanalua Medical Center – Honolulu
Kaiser Permanente Moanalua Medical Center is one of the most modern and efficient hospitals in Hawaii, known for its high level of coordination and preventive care. As part of the larger Kaiser Permanente health system, it provides integrated care to members under one roof, combining outpatient clinics, pharmacy services, and hospital facilities. The 295-bed hospital is located in Honolulu and is consistently rated as “High Performing” in areas like stroke care, heart attack treatment, knee replacement, cancer care, and maternity services. One of the standout features of Moanalua Medical Center is its focus on maternal and newborn health. The hospital has received national recognition for its maternity program, offering labor and delivery suites, a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), and lactation support. In addition, the hospital prioritizes digital innovation and patient-centered services, making it a top choice for residents seeking preventive care and chronic disease management in a highly coordinated environment.
4. Pali Momi Medical Center – Aiea, Oʻahu
Located in Aiea on the west side of Oʻahu, Pali Momi Medical Center is another key facility under the Hawaii Pacific Health umbrella. It is particularly valued by residents in Central and West Oʻahu who rely on its services instead of traveling into Honolulu. Though smaller than some of the others on this list with 118 beds, Pali Momi punches well above its weight in terms of patient care. The hospital has strong programs in surgery, cardiology, imaging, emergency services, and women’s health. Pali Momi is known for its use of advanced electronic medical records and diagnostic technologies, helping to reduce wait times and enhance clinical outcomes. It also features a 24-hour emergency department and surgical suites that are equipped with minimally invasive technology. Pali Momi’s location, combined with its quality of care, makes it essential for providing timely and effective medical services to the growing population on Oʻahu’s west side.
5. Adventist Health Castle – Kailua, Oʻahu
Adventist Health Castle, located in Kailua on the windward side of Oʻahu, rounds out the list of Hawaii’s best hospitals. Formerly known as Castle Medical Center, this 160-bed nonprofit hospital has undergone significant modernization in recent years and is now affiliated with the Adventist Health network. Castle is particularly known for its excellence in maternity and women’s health services. The hospital has received national recognition for its family-centered labor and delivery care, and it offers wellness programs, birth classes, and postpartum support. Beyond maternity, Adventist Health Castle offers services in general surgery, internal medicine, orthopedics, and behavioral health. The hospital emphasizes holistic and compassionate care, aligning with its faith-based mission. With its beautiful location near the Koʻolau mountains and its strong reputation for personalized care, Castle has become a trusted institution for families living on the windward side of Oʻahu.
Conclusion
While Hawaii may be geographically isolated, its healthcare system is robust and anchored by several top-tier hospitals. The Queen’s Medical Center continues to lead the way with its trauma, stroke, and specialty services, followed closely by Straub Benioff Medical Center and Kaiser Moanalua, which offer comprehensive care and consistently high patient satisfaction. Pali Momi and Adventist Health Castle extend that high standard of care to underserved and outer areas of Oʻahu, ensuring broader access to quality medical treatment across the island. Together, these hospitals represent the very best of Hawaii’s healthcare infrastructure—delivering excellence, compassion, and innovation across the state.