103 Best Hotels in Hawaii, USA

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We've compiled the best of the best in Hawaii - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.

Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa

$$$$ | 92-1185 Aliinui Dr., Kapolei, HI, 96707, USA Fodor's Choice
Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa, West (Leeward) Oahu
Courtesy of Courtesy of Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa

Disney's first property in Hawaii melds the Disney magic with breathtaking vistas, white sandy beaches, and sunsets that even Mickey stops to watch. The enchanting resort complex delivers with Disney characters and local cultural experiences that include everything from ukulele lessons to nature walks to storytelling around the firepit. The full-service, 21-acre resort offers both guest rooms and a large contingent of time-share units that are more like apartments. You won't be staying in your room: Aulani has four restaurants, two lounges, a man-made snorkeling lagoon, a luxury spa, a full-service fitness center, a large beach, and the Waikolohe Pool—complete with a lazy river for tubing, the Volcanic Vertical (a tunnel waterslide), and the heart-pounding Tubestone Curl that sends you twisting and turning before eventually launching you into the stream. For those seeking a little more relaxation, the adults-only Wailana Pool is just the spot.

Pros

  • Tons to do on-site, including an upscale spa
  • Family-friendly done right
  • Painted Sky: HI Style Studio makeovers for kids

Cons

  • A long way from Waikiki
  • Disney character breakfasts require advance reservations far in advance
  • Areas and events can get really busy
92-1185 Aliinui Dr., Kapolei, HI, 96707, USA
866-443–4763-reservations
Hotel Details
832 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

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Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa

$$$$ | 1571 Poipu Rd., HI, 96756, USA Fodor's Choice
Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa, South Shore Kauai
Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa

Dramatically handsome, Kauai's best megaresort is this classic Hawaiian low-rise built into the cliffs overlooking an unspoiled coastline; it boasts mouthwatering restaurants and has taken great strides to reduce its carbon footprint. Five acres of meandering fresh- and saltwater swimming lagoons with a decent-size waterslide—a big hit with kids—are beautifully set amid lush landscaping. Adults enjoy golf, treatments at the luxurious Anara Spa, or workouts at the well-appointed gym. Breakfast packages are available. The business center here is open to all, not only guests.

Pros

  • Fabulous pool and spa
  • Cultural activities
  • Elegant Hawaiian ambience

Cons

  • Dangerous swimming beach during summer swells
  • Small balconies
  • The large size may not appeal to all tastes
1571 Poipu Rd., HI, 96756, USA
808-742–1234
Hotel Details
602 rooms
No Meals

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Luana Kai Resort

$$ | 940 S. Kihei Rd., Kihei, HI, 96753, USA Fodor's Choice
Luana Kai, South Shore Maui
Courtesy Luana Kai

If you don't need everything to be totally modern, consider setting up house at this great value condominium-by-the-sea. Three different room plans cater to couples, families, or friends traveling together; make sure to request a unit with air-conditioning—a must for hot, dry Kihei. The heated pool and deck is a social place, with gas grills, a full outdoor kitchen, hot tub, sauna rooms, and shuffleboard court.

Pros

  • Meticulously landscaped grounds
  • Excellent management team
  • Free parking

Cons

  • No elevators
  • No maid service
  • A/c only available in some units for an additional fee
940 S. Kihei Rd., Kihei, HI, 96753, USA
808-879–1268
Hotel Details
113 units
No Meals

Quick Facts

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Recommended Fodor's Video

Puakea Ranch

$$$ | 56-2864 Akoni Pule Hwy., Hawi, HI, 96719, USA Fodor's Choice
Puakea Ranch, Kohala Coast
Giselle Thompson

Four beautifully restored ranch houses and bungalows occupy this historic country estate in Hawi, where guests enjoy their own private swimming pools, horseback riding, round-the-clock concierge availability, and plenty of fresh fruit from the orchards. Listed on the State Historic Register, Puakea Ranch pays homage to the four generations of cowboys and plantation workers who once lived on the property. The two-bedroom Yoshi's House sleeps six and has ocean views from the lanai, plus a lava-rock swimming pool. Cowboy House is a three-bedroom former bunkhouse that sleeps six, while the Miles Away bungalow provides two bedrooms and its own private dipping pool. A large studio, James Cottage shares a swimming pool with Cowboy House and also has its own private hot tub. Decorated with local art depicting the property, each home has its own kitchen, barbecue grills, and washer-dryer. It's 15 minutes to the closest public beach, and just down the road from the artists' town of Hawi. It's one of the few properties on the Kohala Coast that can also be entirely booked for weddings and events. 

Pros

  • Charmingly decorated
  • Washer and dryer in each house
  • Private swimming pools

Cons

  • 15 minutes to the beach
  • Spotty cell-phone coverage
  • Sometimes windy
56-2864 Akoni Pule Hwy., Hawi, HI, 96719, USA
808-315–0805
Hotel Details
4 houses
No Meals

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1 Hotel Hanalei Bay

$$$$ | 5520 Ka Haku Rd., Princeville, HI, 96722, USA Fodor's Choice

This swanky sustainable wellness resort—formerly the St. Regis Princeville—offers expansive views of the sea and mountains, including Makana, the landmark peak immortalized as mysterious "Bali Hai" in the film South Pacific. The reopening follows a $300 million overhaul that includes seven food venues, the Bamford Wellness Spa, a 1X Vitahealth Medi Spa program, a gym and fitness classes, on-site rooftop organic garden and apiary, a golf course, three saline pools (one adult-only), and kids' club. The overall design blends well with the natural setting of Hanalei Bay and honors the region's Native Hawaiian culture and history. The spacious guest rooms, many with private lanai, range from garden rooms to lavish suites with ocean views, all with furnishings made from recycled teak and local artworks; the neutral-hue decor uses textures and materials that evoke the natural world. 

Pros

  • Attractive lobby area in a lush garden setting
  • Extensive activities, from yoga and guided hikes to cocktails and cooking classes
  • State-of-the-art spa and gym

Cons

  • Expensive even for the area
  • Beach not ideal for swimming
  • Minimal grounds
5520 Ka Haku Rd., Princeville, HI, 96722, USA
808-826–9644
Hotel Details
252 rooms
No Meals

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Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach

$$$ | 2490 Kalakaua Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA Fodor's Choice

The centerpiece of this modern, stylish high-rise, across the street from the beach in the middle of Waikiki, is the lobby's mesmerizing aquarium, filled with nearly 300,000 gallons of seawater and colorful marine life. There's something for everyone here, including airy guest rooms with private lanai and ocean views; an expansive, rooftop-deck infinity pool with a bar that serves small plates all day; and two of chef Morimoto’s restaurants—Morimoto Asia, which has stunning views, and the casual, street-level Momosan. The resort fee here includes the Beach Candy program, with a first-come, first-served array of beach toys and accessories. The exclusive Longboard Club, open to concierge-level guests, offers plenty of indoor-outdoor seating and a great selection of food and drink for breakfast and dinner.

Pros

  • New and modern, with several on-site restaurants
  • Cutting-edge fitness facilities and spa
  • Excellent guest lounge

Cons

  • Resort fee is $50 per day
  • Large hotel that can feel impersonal
  • You must cross the street for the beach
2490 Kalakaua Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA
808-922–1233
Hotel Details
839 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

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The Banyan Tree Bed and Breakfast Retreat

$ | 3265 Baldwin Ave., Makawao, HI, 96768, USA Fodor's Choice

If a taste of rural Hawaii life in plantation days coupled with quiet time and privacy is what you crave, you can find it at this 2-acre property: it's awash in tropical foliage, dotted with banyan trees, and has a 50-foot, saltwater pool and in-ground spa that afford views of Maui's northern coast and Molokai. The cottages (with granite-topped kitchenettes and private entrances) are simple and functional, but the gem is the 1927 plantation house, with its sprawling living and dining rooms, commercial-grade kitchen, and a lanai that will take you back in time.

Pros

  • One cottage and the pool are outfitted for travelers with disabilities
  • Free on-site parking
  • You can walk to quaint Makawao town for dining and shopping

Cons

  • Cottages have pretty basic furniture and few amenities
  • Some daytime traffic noise
  • Not all units have air-conditioning
3265 Baldwin Ave., Makawao, HI, 96768, USA
808-572–9021
Hotel Details
Credit cards accepted
7 cottage suites
Free Breakfast

Quick Facts

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Dunbar Beachfront Cottages

$$$ | 9750 Kamehameha V Hwy., Kaunakakai, HI, 96748, USA Fodor's Choice

Perfect for a comfortable base in the country, think of these two oceanfront, plantation-style cottages as your own private beach home on Molokai's east end; each has a full kitchen, washer and dryer, and ocean-facing lanai. There are small beaches just steps from the front door, and the Pauwalu cottage is fronted by a fishpond, which is the perfect wading spot for families with young children.

Pros

  • Complete privacy
  • Well-stocked kitchens
  • Convenient location to east end beaches

Cons

  • Isolated and far from town
  • Very popular, so bookings can be hard to come by
  • Three-night minimum stay and additional cleaning fee
9750 Kamehameha V Hwy., Kaunakakai, HI, 96748, USA
808-336–0761
Hotel Details
2 cottages
No Meals

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Fairmont Orchid Hawaii

$$$$ | 1 N. Kaniku Dr., Mauna Lani, HI, 96743, USA Fodor's Choice

This first-rate resort overflows with tropical gardens, cascading waterfalls, a sandy beach cove, a meandering pool, a lagoon for the kids, and all the luxury amenities. All guest rooms have private lanai, and many have partial or full ocean views. Excellent on-site restaurants include the flagship Brown's Beach House, The Orchid Court, Hale Kai, Brown's Deli, and the outstanding Binchotan Bar and Grill. Guests enjoy the tennis center, the Spa Without Walls with private massage hales (houses) set amid waterfalls or on the oceanfront, and the largest and most impressive swimming pool among the resorts. The lavish Hawaii Loa luau is followed by a show that combines modern and Polynesian dance. There's lots of beach equipment to rent, plus rental bikes if you want to pedal to the nearby Shops at Mauna Lani. The beach has a protected cove ideal for swimming and wading, and the fitness center comes fully equipped.

Pros

  • Oceanfront location
  • Excellent pool
  • Aloha hospitality

Cons

  • Central pool can get very crowded
  • $48 resort fee
  • Not the best beach among Kohala Coast resorts
1 N. Kaniku Dr., Mauna Lani, HI, 96743, USA
808-885–2000
Hotel Details
540 rooms
No Meals

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Four Seasons Resort Hualalai

$$$$ | 72-100 Kaupulehu Dr., Kailua-Kona, HI, 96745, USA Fodor's Choice

Beautiful views everywhere, polished wood floors, custom furnishings and linens, and fine Hawaiian artwork make this oceanfront resort a peaceful, opulent retreat. Freestanding bungalows are large and luxurious, with spacious travertine and marble bathrooms as well as private outdoor showers. One of the five pools, King's Pond, is replete with thousands of tropical fish and a spotted eagle ray that guests have the opportunity to feed daily. The seashell infinity pool, family-friendly and surrounded by cabanas and palm trees, has a clear view to the ocean beyond. The on-site Hawaiian Cultural Center honors the property's spiritual heritage and sense of place, and the sports club and spa offer top-rate health and fitness options. The resort's on-site restaurants (ULU, Beach Tree) are world-class. Hualalai's golf course has hosted the PGA Tour Champions Tour and the Senior PGA Tournament of Champions. The resort is super kid-friendly, with a great activities and events program for all ages.

Pros

  • Beautiful location
  • Gourmet restaurants
  • Renowned service

Cons

  • Not the best beach among the resorts
  • Quite pricey
  • 20-minute drive to Kailua-Kona
72-100 Kaupulehu Dr., Kailua-Kona, HI, 96745, USA
808-325–8000
Hotel Details
243 rooms
No Meals

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Four Seasons Resort Lanai

$$$$ | 1 Manele Bay Rd., Lanai City, HI, 96763, USA Fodor's Choice

In addition to stunning views of Hulopoe Bay and the rocky coastline, this sublime retreat offers manicured grounds featuring native Hawaiian plants, as well as urban-chic interiors featuring meticulously curated art from Polynesia, Micronesia, and Hawaii. Adults can languish in the adults-only, lagoon-style pool, while children can enjoy the family pool, try their hand at sand sculpting, or explore tidal pools along Hulopoe Bay. It might be tempting to relax the day away, but the resort can arrange numerous activities, including horseback riding, UTV rides, evening astronomy experiences, and sporting clays.

Pros

  • Nearby beach
  • Outstanding restaurants and high-tech amenities
  • Rental vehicles available on property

Cons

  • 20 minutes from town
  • Need a car to explore the area
  • Not all guest rooms have coastal views
1 Manele Bay Rd., Lanai City, HI, 96763, USA
808-565–2000
Hotel Details
213 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

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Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

$$$$ | 3900 Wailea Alanui Dr., Wailea, HI, 96753, USA Fodor's Choice

"Impeccably stylish" and "extravagant" describe most Four Seasons properties, and this elegant one fronting Wailea Beach is no exception, with its beautiful courtyards and luxuries such as 24-hour room service, twice-daily housekeeping, excellent restaurants, on-site spa, and adults-only serenity pool with outstanding views. Most of the rooms have ocean views; cabanas, chaise lounges, and a car service transporting guests around Wailea are among the complimentary amenities.

Pros

  • No resort fee
  • Complimentary kids' club, snorkeling, tennis, and cultural activities
  • Great shopping and local crafts and artwork market

Cons

  • Adults-only pool chairs fill up fast
  • A bit ostentatious for some
  • Facilities can seem crowded
3900 Wailea Alanui Dr., Wailea, HI, 96753, USA
808-874–8000
Hotel Details
383 rooms
No Meals

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Hana Kai Maui

$$$$ | 4865 Uakea Rd., HI, 96713, USA Fodor's Choice

Perfectly situated on Hana Bay, this two-story "condotel" has an excellent reputation for cleanliness and visitor hospitality—and the ocean views are stunning. The studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom units are comfortably furnished and have well-equipped kitchens with all the appliances, table settings, spices, and other cooking essentials you need to prepare meals. There aren't many restaurants in Hana, but some of the best food trucks on Maui are within walking distance.

Pros

  • 10-minute walk to Hana Bay
  • One-night rentals are accepted, some with conditions
  • Wi-Fi available in all units

Cons

  • Tight parking lot can be a little difficult to manage
  • No elevator
  • No a/c or TV
4865 Uakea Rd., HI, 96713, USA
808-248–8426
Hotel Details
17 units
No Meals

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Hotel Molokai

$$ | 1300 Kamehameha V Hwy., Kaunakakai, HI, 96748, USA Fodor's Choice

The nicely landscaped property is dotted with Polynesian-style bungalows—many overlooking the reef and distant Lanai—and has bright guest rooms, a pretty pool, and a full-service bar that's a popular hangout. The independently owned on-site restaurant, Hiro's Ohana Grill, serves lunch and dinner with live music each night. The activities desk in the lobby will book any island adventure, and beach toys are available for checkout.

Pros

  • Five minutes to town
  • Some units have kitchenettes
  • Authentic Hawaiian entertainment

Cons

  • Wi-Fi is somewhat spotty
  • Lower-priced rooms are small and plain
  • Walls can feel thin
1300 Kamehameha V Hwy., Kaunakakai, HI, 96748, USA
808-660–3408
Hotel Details
40 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

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Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa

$$$$ | 200 Nohea Kai Dr., Kaanapali, HI, 96761, USA Fodor's Choice

Splashing waterfalls, swim-through grottos, a lagoon-like swimming pool, and a 150-foot waterslide "wow" guests of all ages at this bustling Kaanapali resort, and spacious standard rooms are among the other draws. Complete your vacation fantasy by strolling through the lobby past museum-quality art, brilliant parrots, and South African penguins—yes, penguins—or unwind at the oceanfront Spa Kamahao. There's no shortage of food options here, from the trendy Japengo to the traditional Son'z Steakhouse, with Ululani's Shave Ice next to the pool for daytime treats.

Pros

  • Drums of the Pacific luau and the must-see rooftop astronomy Tour of the Stars
  • Hawaiian cultural programs and wildlife education
  • Water wonderland will thrill families

Cons

  • Can be difficult to find a space in self-parking
  • Might not offer the most peaceful escape
  • Daily resort and parking fees
200 Nohea Kai Dr., Kaanapali, HI, 96761, USA
808-661–1234
Hotel Details
810 rooms
No Meals

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The Inn at Mama's Fish House

$$$$ | 799 Poho Pl., Kuau, HI, 96779, USA Fodor's Choice

Nestled in gardens adjacent to one of Maui's most popular dining spots (Mama's Fish House) and fronting a small beach known as Kuau Cove, these well-maintained studios, suites, and one- and two-bedroom cottages (beachfront and garden options) have high-end appliances, contemporary furnishings, and local artwork that set the stage for beach house luxury. Each unit also has a private patio and fully equipped kitchen or kitchenette, making the inn ideal for both couples and families. It's best to make reservations for the restaurant when you book your accommodations or you may not get a table.

Pros

  • Easy access to Kuau Cove
  • Free parking and Wi-Fi
  • Near Hookipa Beach and Paia town shops and restaurants

Cons

  • Restaurant can get crowded during the evening
  • Limited swimming at beach
  • Not a full-service hotel with concierge
799 Poho Pl., Kuau, HI, 96779, USA
808-579–9764
Hotel Details
6 units
No Meals

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The Kahala Hotel & Resort

$$$$ | 5000 Kahala Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96816, USA Fodor's Choice

Hidden away in the upscale residential neighborhood of Kahala (on the other side of Diamond Head from Waikiki), this elegant oceanfront hotel with top-notch service, opened in 1964 and one of Hawaii's first luxury resorts, has hosted celebrities, princesses, the Dalai Lama, and nearly every president since Lyndon Johnson. It's flanked by the Waialae Country Club's golf course and the ocean, surrounding it in natural tranquility—all just a 10-minute ride from Waikiki by free shuttle. A walkway has benches tucked into seaside nooks for lazy viewing, and the oceanfront fitness center offers outdoor yoga and Pilates. The poolside bar and grill will serve you at your lounge chair on the beach or by the pool, you can enjoy a casual meal at the Plumeria Beach House, elegant afternoon tea is offered on The Veranda, and fine dining is available at Hoku's or Arancino.

The reef just offshore makes the waters here calm enough for young kids. You can also sign up for dolphin interactions in the 26,000-square-foot lagoon or simply sit and watch the dolphins play throughout the day. The 550-square-foot guest rooms, decorated in an understated Islands style with mahogany furniture, are spacious though a tad worn; bathrooms have two vanities, and the lanai are big enough for lounge chairs. If you're a golf fan visiting the second week of January, ask for a room overlooking the course for a bird's-eye view of the PGA Sony Open from your lanai. If dolphins are your thing, request a room overlooking the lagoon.

Pros

  • Away from hectic Waikiki
  • Top-notch Hoku's restaurant
  • Heavenly spa on-site

Cons

  • Far from Waikiki
  • In a residential neighborhood, so not much to do within walking distance of hotel
  • Small pool
5000 Kahala Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96816, USA
808-369--9471
Hotel Details
338 rooms
No Meals

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Kauai Coast Resort at the Beachboy

$$$$ | 520 Aleka Loop, HI, 96746, USA Fodor's Choice

Fronting an uncrowded stretch of beach, this three-story, primarily time-share condo resort is convenient and a bit more upscale than nearby properties. It's one of the better resort properties along this stretch of the Coconut Coast. The fully furnished one- and two-bedroom condo units, each with a private lanai, washer-dryer, and well-equipped kitchen, are housed in three buildings. They are decorated in rich woods, tropical prints, and Hawaiian-quilt designs. The 8-acre property looks out on the ocean and offers a heated pool with natural rock waterscapes, a day spa, a children's pool, an ocean-side hot tub, pool bar, and fitness center. It's within walking distance of shops and home to the excellent Hukilau Lanai restaurant.

Pros

  • Central location
  • Nice sunrises
  • Attractive pool

Cons

  • Beach is narrow
  • Ocean not ideal for swimming
  • Daily housekeeping fee
520 Aleka Loop, HI, 96746, USA
808-822–3441
Hotel Details
108 units
No Meals

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Kolea at Waikoloa Beach Resort

$$$$ | 69-1000 Kolea Kai Circle, Waikoloa, HI, 96738, USA Fodor's Choice

These modern, impeccably furnished condos offer far more high-end amenities than the average condo complex, including both an infinity pool and a sand-bottom children's pool at its oceanside Beach Club, a fitness center, and a hot tub. It's within walking distance of Anaehoomalu Bay and the beach and close to shopping.

Pros

  • Can walk to beach
  • Close to activities
  • Resort amenities of nearby Hilton

Cons

  • Pricey for not being directly on the beach
  • No on-property restaurants
  • Limited view from some units
69-1000 Kolea Kai Circle, Waikoloa, HI, 96738, USA
808-987–4519
Hotel Details
53 units
No Meals

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Lava Lava Beach Club Cottages

$$$$ | 69-1081 Kuualii Pl., Waikoloa, HI, 96738, USA Fodor's Choice

Spend the day swimming at the beach just steps away from your private lanai and fall asleep to the sound of the ocean at one of four artfully decorated, one-room cottages on the sandy beach at Anaehoomalu Bay. These cottages are among the few beachfront rentals you will find anywhere on the island. It's a short stroll to the adjacent Lava Lava Beach Club bar/restaurant, which serves lunch and dinner daily. Ride your included cruiser bike in the morning to the nearby coffee shops at the Kings' Shops and Queens' MarketPlace.

Pros

  • One of the island's few beachfront rentals
  • Fully air-conditioned
  • Fun, Hawaii-themed decor

Cons

  • Beach is public, so there may be people in front of cottage
  • Quite expensive
  • Noise, music from nearby restaurant
69-1081 Kuualii Pl., Waikoloa, HI, 96738, USA
808-769–5282
Hotel Details
4 cottages
No Meals

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Montage Kapalua Bay

$$$$ | 1 Bay Dr., Kapalua, HI, 96761, USA Fodor's Choice

This luxury resort caters to well-heeled travelers who want the comfort and privacy of a residential-style suite combined with resort service and amenities—and here, the elegantly furnished one- to four-bedroom units include gourmet kitchens, in-unit washers/dryers, and the largest lanai to be found. Other attractions include a cascading lagoon pool, a no-cell phone serenity pool, multiple restaurants, and a 30,000-square-foot spa. The resort also offers unique experiences served up inside of your own space, including the Chef's Table in Your Residence program with a chef conducting—either in the residence's kitchen or outside—a heritage cooking lesson that demonstrates Hawaiian traditions. Also available are en-suite luau (with local food) and exercise equipment like Peloton bikes, Hypervolt massage tools, and weights delivered to the room.

Pros

  • Prime snorkeling
  • Great kids clubs for children and teens
  • Large, well-appointed rooms

Cons

  • Pricey daily parking and resort fees
  • Large property means lots of walking
  • Far from other Maui attractions
1 Bay Dr., Kapalua, HI, 96761, USA
808-662–6600
Hotel Details
50 units
No Meals

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Napili Kai Beach Resort

$$$$ | 5900 Lower Honoapiilani Hwy., Napili, HI, 96761, USA Fodor's Choice

Spread across 10 beautiful acres along one of Maui's best beaches, the family-friendly Napili Kai with its "old Hawaii" feel draws a loyal following to its island-style rooms that open onto private lanai. Studios and suites have kitchenettes, but for the most bang for your buck, splurge on the condo units at the western edge of the property, which have fully equipped stainless-steel kitchens and a wide lanai with views of Lanai and Molokai. Be sure to dine at the Sea House Restaurant with indoor-outdoor seating and a spectacular ocean view.

Pros

  • Weekly kids' hula performances and Hawaiian slack-key guitar concert
  • Fantastic swimming and sunning beach
  • No resort fees

Cons

  • Not as modern as other West Maui resorts
  • Beach subject to periodic erosion
  • Parking spaces tight for some
5900 Lower Honoapiilani Hwy., Napili, HI, 96761, USA
808-669–6271
Hotel Details
163 units
No Meals

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Paniolo Hale

$ | 100 Lio Pl., Maunaloa, HI, 96770, USA Fodor's Choice

High on a ridge overlooking a favorite local surfing spot, Molokai's best condominium property has mature tropical landscaping, a nice pool, and barbecue grills. Elegant studios and one- or two-bedroom units have beautiful screened lanai, well-equipped kitchens, and washers and dryers; some also have spectacular ocean views.

Pros

  • Close to beach
  • Serene setting
  • Perfect if you are an expert surfer

Cons

  • Unit amenities vary
  • Far from shopping
  • Some units front an abandoned golf course
100 Lio Pl., Maunaloa, HI, 96770, USA
808-460–4221
Hotel Details
77 units
No Meals

Quick Facts

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Sheraton Kauai Resort

$$$$ | 2440 Hoonani Rd., HI, 96756, USA Fodor's Choice

The Sheraton is a sprawling resort with lodging that offers views of the ocean or lovely landscaped gardens; it's worth splurging on the ocean-wing hotel rooms, which are so close to the water you can practically feel the spray of the surf as it hits the rocks below. By day, the real fun comes from renting a cabana, complete with a love seat, lounge chairs, side tables, a TV, and a ceiling fan; by night, relax under the stars by one of the firepits. RumFire restaurant on the point has panoramic ocean views, there's an oceanfront luau twice a week, and Lava's by the beach has daily specials and desserts brought in from Ko Bakery. Villa units have kitchenettes and laundry machines, and are within walking distance of many restaurants and shops.

Pros

  • Ocean-view pool
  • Restaurants with spectacular sunset views
  • Good facilities for meetings, events, reunions

Cons

  • Parking can be a ways from the rooms
  • Renovated rooms but some dated infrastructure
  • Basic gym and no spa
2440 Hoonani Rd., HI, 96756, USA
808-742–1661
Hotel Details
188 rooms, 166 condos
No Meals

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Sheraton Waikiki Beach Resort

$$$$ | 2255 Kalakaua Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA Fodor's Choice

Towering over its neighbors along the beachfront, this big, busy hotel offers stunning views from most of its modern rooms, which received a major renovation completed in 2023 that features neutral shades with splashes of color. On-site amenities are plentiful and include one of Oahu's largest ballrooms, shops, and even a walk-in health clinic. The Helumoa Playground, with two swimming pools and a 70-foot waterslide, is a kid magnet, while the Edge of Waikiki infinity pool is a more subdued, adults-only swimming and lounging destination. Order a stellar cocktail and a bite to eat from the local-style pupu menu at RumFire, an oceanfront watering hole, or grab a drink at the relaxing Edge Bar and toast the sunset.

Pros

  • Fresh, modern guest rooms
  • Variety of on-site activities and dining options
  • Swimming pools often ranked among the Islands' best

Cons

  • Busy atmosphere clashes with laid-back Hawaiian style
  • Resort fee is $42 per day
  • Room sizes and views vary
2255 Kalakaua Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA
808-922–4422
Hotel Details
1,636 rooms
No Meals

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Turtle Bay Resort

$$$$ | 57-091 Kamehameha Hwy., Kahuku, HI, 96731, USA Fodor's Choice

Sprawling over nearly 1,300 acres of natural landscape on the edge of Kuilima Point in Kahuku, this resort has spacious guest rooms (averaging nearly 500 square feet) with lanai that showcase stunning peninsula views. In winter, when the big waves roll ashore, you get a front-row seat for the powerful surf. The 42 sumptuous oceanfront beach bungalows have private lanai and access to an exclusive pool area. Casual-chic Alaia, the resort's signature restaurant, showcases locally sourced ingredients in island-theme dishes. The resort also includes a collection of swimming pools and eateries, the 11,000-square-foot Nalu Spa, a Jamie O'Brien surf school, horse stables, 12 miles of nature trails, and the only 36-hole golf facility on Oahu.

Pros

  • Fabulous open public spaces in a secluded area of Oahu
  • Numerous amenities such as a beautiful spa and four outdoor pools
  • Excellent location for exploring the North Shore

Cons

  • Remote—even Haleiwa is a 20-minute drive
  • Hefty resort fee
  • 24/7 resort living isn't for everyone
57-091 Kamehameha Hwy., Kahuku, HI, 96731, USA
808-293–6000
Hotel Details
452 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

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Wailea Beach Resort -- Marriott, Maui

$$$$ | 3700 Wailea Alanui Dr., Wailea, HI, 96753, USA Fodor's Choice

This resort, which sits closer to the crashing surf than most in Wailea, delivers not only dramatic views but also luxurious amenities and spacious accommodations. Grown-ups can find peace and quiet at the adults-only Maluhia serenity pool, while kids can frolic at the Nalu Adventure Pool, which features four waterslides, including the longest in Maui at 325 feet. The resort also has the Mo Bettah food truck, a fun take on a local culinary tradition.

Pros

  • Has the only Starbucks in Wailea
  • Short walk to The Shops at Wailea
  • Te Au Moana Luau four nights a week

Cons

  • Rocky shore that is not quite beachfront
  • Foot traffic on coastal beach walk
  • Daily resort fee and daily self-parking fee (valet also available)
3700 Wailea Alanui Dr., Wailea, HI, 96753, USA
808-879–1922
Hotel Details
547 units
No Meals

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Aloha Cottages

$$$$ | 1041 Moanakai Rd., HI, 96746, USA

Owners Charlie and Susan Hoerner restored a three-bedroom plantation home on Kapaa's Baby Beach to reflect the charm of yesteryear with the conveniences of today. Think plank flooring, gingerbread, and stained glass alongside a Wolf stove, Bosch dishwasher, and granite countertops. The orientation is due east; you won't have to leave your bed—or living room or lanai—to watch the sunrise, the whales breach, or the full moon rise. In addition to the main Sunrise Cottage, there's a cozy and more affordable bungalow called Moonrise Cottage in back that's perfect for honeymooners. Rent both (weekly rentals only) to sleep a total of eight. Credit cards are accepted via PayPal only.

Pros

  • Comfortable homelike ambience
  • Good for large groups
  • Oceanfront

Cons

  • Can be windy at times
  • Not great for swimming
  • Facilities shared between the two houses
1041 Moanakai Rd., HI, 96746, USA
808-823--0543
Hotel Details
2 cottages
No Meals
Cleaning fee $250--$500

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Aqua Aloha Surf Waikiki

$ | 444 Kanekapolei St., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA

This affordable property two blocks from Waikiki Beach appeals to the young (and young at heart) with surfer-chic rooms and suites, a cool blue-and-green color scheme, and lounge chairs throughout. Most accommodations have a lanai, mini-refrigerator, microwave, and coffee maker. Note that although the resort fee includes beach towels and chairs, the hotel does not offer daily housekeeping services (and also charges a one-time cleaning fee); replacement bedding and towels are available upon request, however. There isn't any food at the hotel, but many dining options are just outside.

Pros

  • In-room refrigerators and microwaves
  • Pool with sundeck and cabanas
  • On-site coin-operated laundry

Cons

  • Hotel is dated overall
  • No daily housekeeping services
  • No view and 10-minute walk to beach
444 Kanekapolei St., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA
866-970–4160
Hotel Details
204 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $

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Aston at the Waikiki Banyan

$$ | 201 Ohua Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA

Families and active travelers love the convenience and action of this high-rise hotel, often referred to as "the Banyan," just a block from Waikiki Beach, the aquarium, the zoo, and bustling Kalakaua Avenue. The lobby is decorated in warm tropical woods with plenty of seating to enjoy the trade winds. All the suites here are privately owned (some units are dated), and many have fully equipped kitchens, as well as lanai that offer Diamond Head or ocean views. The recreation deck also has fantastic Pacific vistas, as well as outdoor grills; a heated swimming pool; two hot tubs; a playground; a mini putting green; and volleyball, basketball, and tennis courts. There is also a koi pond and a mini waterfall. 

Pros

  • Many suites have great views, and many have kitchens
  • Massive recreation deck for the entire family
  • Heated swimming pool

Cons

  • Suites are individually owned, so conditions can vary greatly
  • Resort fee is $25 per day
  • Sharing hotel with residents
201 Ohua Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA
808-922–0555
Hotel Details
876 suites
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

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