Thanks all, for the feedback! We are staying with friends at their house in Oahu, which is why we are looking for luxury resorts on the other two islands.

We have a lot to decide--thank you for all the great ideas!

Kailani, your information is so interesting and I enjoyed reading it.

I had no idea about the Mauna Kea. It is funny because I was just speaking to a lady (now in her late 70's) who used to travel with her family (including grandkids) to the Big Island and they always stayed at the Mauna Kea for probably 40 years.

We drove through the grounds as a member of the public (the grounds/hotel have a gate which is guarded) to use the public beach. There are only 30 cars allowed at any one time.

The entire grounds/hotel/beach are spectacularly beautiful. I thought about staying there for another trip but the cost is pricey. Maybe they have discounts. Will have to check again.