20 Best Flooring Hawaii Ideas: A Comprehensive Guide
When it comes to flooring in Hawaii, the options are as varied as the vibrant island landscapes themselves.
Whether you’re building a new home, remodeling your existing space, or simply updating a room, the right floor can transform your space into a tropical paradise—or a sleek, modern haven.
But with so many choices, how do you know which one is truly perfect for your Hawaii home?
Why Choosing the Right Flooring Matters in Hawaii
In Hawaii, flooring is more than just a surface you walk on. The climate and lifestyle of the islands call for floors that are not only beautiful but functional. Think about it: the high humidity, the occasional rain, the warm temperatures, and the sandy outdoor lifestyle all play a role in how your floor will perform over time.
Durability, moisture resistance, and easy maintenance are the key factors you’ll want to consider. So let’s dig in and explore the top 20 flooring ideas for Hawaii, carefully chosen to meet these demands while also adding style and comfort to your space.
1. Engineered Hardwood Flooring
The Classic Choice with Island Flair
Imagine walking through your living room, the rich, natural grain of engineered hardwood beneath your feet, the sunlight streaming through the windows. Engineered hardwood is an excellent choice for Hawaii homes because it’s more moisture-resistant than traditional hardwood, which makes it ideal for areas where humidity is a concern. It’s the perfect balance of elegance and practicality.
Pros:
- Moisture-resistant and durable
- Available in various wood types (oak, maple, and even exotic options)
- Adds warmth and sophistication to any room
Cons:
- Can be more expensive than other options
- May scratch over time, so consider adding area rugs
2. Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)
Versatility and Durability Combined
If you’re looking for a flooring option that’s as tough as the Hawaiian surf, then Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) is your answer. LVP has grown in popularity over the years, and it’s no surprise why—it’s waterproof, easy to maintain, and offers a wide range of colors and textures to mimic wood, stone, and even tile.
Pros:
- 100% waterproof and perfect for high-humidity areas
- Easy to install and maintain
- Budget-friendly compared to hardwood or tile
Cons:
- Can feel colder underfoot compared to wood or carpet
- Not as luxurious in appearance as high-end options
3. Ceramic or Porcelain Tile
Cool Comfort Underfoot
In a tropical climate like Hawaii, ceramic or porcelain tile can be a lifesaver. These materials are naturally cool to the touch, making them perfect for those warm Hawaiian days. And when it comes to humidity, tile reigns supreme. Water doesn’t stand a chance against this resilient surface.
Pros:
- Water-resistant and perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Variety of colors, patterns, and sizes
Cons:
- Hard and cold underfoot (though throw rugs can solve this)
- Can crack under heavy impact
4. Bamboo Flooring
Sustainable and Stylish
Hawaii is all about sustainability, and bamboo flooring is an eco-friendly choice that’s both stylish and practical. Bamboo is a renewable resource, making it a perfect fit for island living. Plus, its durability rivals that of hardwood floors, which makes it an excellent option for high-traffic areas.
Pros:
- Sustainable and eco-friendly
- Strong and durable
- Naturally moisture-resistant
Cons:
- Can be prone to scratches and dents over time
- Needs to be maintained to avoid damage from moisture
5. Cork Flooring
Soft, Sustainable, and Stylish
For those seeking a unique, soft underfoot option, cork flooring is a fantastic choice. This material is derived from the bark of cork oak trees, making it an eco-friendly option that also offers sound insulation—a great feature for those living in multi-family dwellings.
Pros:
- Soft and comfortable underfoot
- Naturally resistant to mold and mildew
- Quiet, absorbing sound and reducing noise
Cons:
- Can be damaged by heavy furniture or high heels
- May require sealing to maintain durability
6. Concrete Flooring
Minimalist and Modern
If you’re into modern, industrial aesthetics, concrete flooring can bring a sleek, polished look to your home. This flooring choice is becoming increasingly popular in Hawaii homes, especially in contemporary or beach-style interiors. It’s durable, low-maintenance, and easy to clean, making it ideal for homes with sandy feet coming in from the beach.
Pros:
- Extremely durable and long-lasting
- Low maintenance and easy to clean
- Offers a minimalist, modern look
Cons:
- Can be hard and cold underfoot
- Requires proper sealing to prevent staining
7. Slate Tile
The Perfect Touch of Natural Beauty
For a more natural and rustic appeal, slate tile offers an earthy, textured look that’s perfect for creating a connection with Hawaii’s volcanic landscape. Slate is incredibly durable, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor areas.
Pros:
- Highly durable and scratch-resistant
- Unique color variations and textures
- Great for wet areas (bathrooms, kitchens)
Cons:
- Can be slippery when wet
- Requires sealing to protect from stains
8. Stone Flooring (Granite, Marble, Travertine)
Elegant and Timeless
Stone flooring, such as granite, marble, or travertine, exudes sophistication and luxury. While it may be on the pricier side, the elegance and timelessness it adds to a home are unmatched. In Hawaii, stone floors also help keep your home cool during those scorching summer days.
Pros:
- Durable, elegant, and long-lasting
- Adds a luxurious feel to any room
- Cool and perfect for hot climates
Cons:
- Expensive upfront cost
- Requires regular maintenance, especially marble
9. Reclaimed Wood Flooring
History Meets Sustainability
If you’re a fan of a more rustic or vintage aesthetic, reclaimed wood flooring brings a unique touch to any space. Sourced from old barns, warehouses, or even repurposed shipping containers, these floors are full of character and history.
Pros:
- Sustainable and eco-friendly
- Adds unique charm and character
- Durable and long-lasting
Cons:
- Can be more expensive
- Requires proper care to prevent warping
10. Rubber Flooring
Safe, Comfortable, and Fun
For families with kids or active individuals, rubber flooring can be an unexpected but practical option. It’s comfortable, slip-resistant, and sound-absorbing, making it ideal for playrooms or home gyms.
Pros:
- Comfortable underfoot and great for active households
- Durable and slip-resistant
- Sound-absorbing properties
Cons:
- May not suit all aesthetics
- Can be more difficult to clean in high-traffic areas
11. Shaw Floors Anso Nylon Carpet
Soft, Durable, and Comfortable
For those who enjoy a soft, cozy feel underfoot, carpet may still have a place in your Hawaii home. Shaw Floors’ Anso Nylon carpet offers durability with a luxurious feel. It’s also great for insulation, keeping rooms warm when the weather turns cooler.
Pros:
- Soft and comfortable
- Available in a wide range of colors and styles
- Durable and easy to clean
Cons:
- Not ideal for high-moisture areas
- Requires more maintenance compared to other options
12. Teak Wood Flooring
Luxury with a Coastal Vibe
Teak wood is often associated with high-end yachts and tropical settings. Known for its water resistance and rich, golden-brown hue, teak flooring will bring a sense of luxury and nature into your Hawaii home. It’s also extremely durable, making it perfect for both indoor and outdoor living areas.
Pros:
- Naturally water-resistant and durable
- Rich, warm aesthetic
- Great for both indoor and outdoor use
Cons:
- Expensive
- Needs regular oiling to maintain its look
13. Pebble Tile Flooring
Natural, Textured, and Unique
For a truly one-of-a-kind flooring solution, pebble tile offers a stunning natural texture. It’s a great choice for bathrooms or areas where you want to bring the outdoors in. The texture of the pebbles also provides a unique feel underfoot, as well as extra grip in wet areas.
Pros:
- Highly durable and slip-resistant
- Perfect for wet areas (bathrooms, showers, patios)
- Unique, natural look
Cons:
- Can be uncomfortable to walk on for long periods
- Requires regular maintenance to avoid grout issues
14. Recycled Glass Flooring
Eco-friendly and Stylish
If sustainability is a top priority for you, recycled glass flooring provides a gorgeous, unique look made from repurposed glass. It’s not just an eco-friendly option, but also adds a bit of sparkle to your home.
Pros:
- Made from recycled materials
- Reflective and shiny, adds a touch of elegance
- Durable and low maintenance
Cons:
- Expensive and may not suit all tastes
- Requires professional installation
15. Rubber Cork Flooring
The Best of Both Worlds
Combining the comfort of cork with the durability of rubber, rubber cork flooring offers an excellent solution for areas where comfort and resilience are important. It’s a great option for family rooms, playrooms, or even home gyms.
Pros:
- Comfortable and soft underfoot
- Eco-friendly
- Absorbs sound and is slip-resistant
Cons:
- Not as stylish as other flooring options
- Can be more expensive
16. Laminate Flooring
Affordable, Practical, and Stylish
Laminate flooring is an affordable, low-maintenance option that offers a wide variety of styles to mimic more expensive materials like wood, stone, or tile. It’s durable, easy to clean, and resistant to stains, making it a great choice for busy households.
Pros:
- Affordable and easy to maintain
- Resilient to scratches and dents
- Available in a variety of styles
Cons:
- Doesn’t add the same value as hardwood or stone
- Can be damaged by water if not properly sealed
17. Outdoor Decking
Perfect for Lanai and Patios
In Hawaii, outdoor living is essential, and outdoor decking is an ideal choice for patios and lanais. Whether you prefer wood, composite, or PVC, the right decking material will provide a comfortable space to enjoy the Hawaiian outdoors.
Pros:
- Perfect for outdoor living spaces
- Variety of materials and finishes
- Durable and long-lasting
Cons:
- Requires regular maintenance (especially wood decking)
- Not as versatile for indoor areas
18. Synthetic Turf
For Green Spaces All Year Round
If you want a lush, green lawn without the hassle of maintenance, synthetic turf is a great option. It provides the perfect outdoor feel without the need for constant watering, mowing, or weeding.
Pros:
- Low-maintenance and always looks lush
- Ideal for pet-friendly environments
- Perfect for areas with limited natural grass growth
Cons:
- Can feel artificial underfoot
- Requires careful installation to avoid uneven surfaces
19. Eco-Friendly Tile (Terracotta)
Natural, Beautiful, and Sustainable
For those who want a more earthy, natural look, terracotta tiles bring warmth and rustic charm to a home. Terracotta is highly durable and naturally energy-efficient, as it keeps homes cool during the hot months.
Pros:
- Natural, rustic aesthetic
- Sustainable and energy-efficient
- Durable and long-lasting
Cons:
- Can be prone to staining
- Requires sealing and maintenance
20. Cedar Flooring
The Allure of Natural Wood
Cedar is a fantastic choice for both indoor and outdoor flooring, offering a natural look that’s both aesthetic and functional. Cedar floors are naturally resistant to rot, which makes them perfect for the humid Hawaiian climate.
Pros:
- Naturally resistant to moisture and rot
- Beautiful natural color and grain
- Eco-friendly and sustainable
Cons:
- Requires periodic sealing to maintain its appearance
- Can be on the pricier side
Final Thoughts
Choosing the perfect flooring for your Hawaii home requires a balance of aesthetics, practicality, and sustainability.
Each flooring option has its own strengths, so consider your specific needs—whether it’s moisture resistance, comfort, style, or durability—to find the best match for your space.
