Fantasy landscaping with splashing waterfalls, swim-through grottoes, a lagoonlike swimming pool, and a 130-foot waterslide wow guests of all ages at this active Kaanapali resort. Stroll through the lobby past museum-quality art, brilliant parrots, and South African penguins (as we said, this is not reality). The Hyatt is not necessarily Hawaiian, but it is photogenic. The grounds are the big deal, but rooms are elegantly decorated with plantation-style wood furniture; each has a private sitting area and lanai. At the southern end of Kaanapali Beach, this resort is in the midst of the action. Also on the premises is Spa Moana, an oceanfront, full-service facility. Pros: nightly luau show on-site; recent upgrades of linens; refurbished restaurant. Cons: it can be difficult to find a space in self-parking; the hotel staff's service can be uneven.
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