60 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.

Aston Waikiki Beach Tower

$$$$ | 2470 Kalakaua Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA

Here, in the center of Waikiki, you get the elegance of a luxury all-suites condominium combined with the intimacy and service of a boutique hotel. Facing Kuhio Beach, this 39-story tower offers spacious (1,100–1,400 square feet) one- and two-bedroom suites with gourmet kitchens and windows that open to views of Waikiki and the Pacific Ocean. The property is a favorite for families looking for sophisticated space and facilities, all within a quick stroll to the beach. Amenities include in-unit washer-dryers, free in-room Wi-Fi, large flat-panel smart TVs, chef-inspired kitchens, pullout sofas, luxury bedding, large lanai, and dining areas to accommodate the whole family. Beyond your room, the resort offers an expansive pool deck, poolside cabanas, barbecue stations, a fitness center, and a yoga studio.

Pros

  • Roomy suites with kitchens and quality amenities
  • Great private lanai and views
  • A recreation deck with something for everyone

Cons

  • Resort fee is $39 per day
  • You must cross a busy street to the beach
  • Space, amenities, and location don't come cheap
2470 Kalakaua Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA
808-926-6400
Hotel Details
140 suites
No Meals

Quick Facts

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Embassy Suites by Hilton Waikiki Beach Walk

$$$ | 201 Beach Walk, Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA

In a place where space is at a premium, this resort in the heart of the Waikiki Beach Walk dining and shopping area offers families and other groups spacious, one- and two-bedroom suites stylishly decorated in relaxing earth tones with splashes of color. In addition to amenities like pull-out sofas and wet bars with microwaves and mini-refrigerators, suites have at least two balconies—some with ocean views, most overlooking the 1,965-square-foot, open-air Grand Lanai with its heated pool, sundeck, and outdoor bar. Perks include a free (hot) breakfast daily and a free happy hour reception (with snacks) nightly. The hotel is steeped in Hawaiiana: not only does it offer cultural programs for adults and youth, but it's also home to famous chef Roy Yamaguchi's Roy's Waikiki restaurant.

Pros

  • No resort fee
  • Spacious and modern rooms with kitchenettes
  • Free hot breakfast and happy hour reception daily

Cons

  • No direct beach access
  • Lobby feels more like a business hotel
  • Property can seem busy and noisy
201 Beach Walk, Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA
800-362–2779-toll-free
Hotel Details
369 suites
Free Breakfast

Quick Facts

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Fairmont Kea Lani Maui

$$$$ | 4100 Wailea Alanui Dr., Wailea, HI, 96753, USA

Gleaming white spires and tiled archways are the hallmark of this stunning resort that's particularly good for families with its spacious suite and villa options. The 37 two-story villas have two or three large bedrooms, a laundry room, a fully equipped kitchen, and a private lanai with plunge pool and barbecue grill. There's also an on-site spa, cultural classes, and wellness programs. The family-friendly and adults-only pool options offer something for everyone.

Pros

  • All rooms are suites
  • 22,000-square-foot water complex
  • On almost-private Polo Beach

Cons

  • Noisy families at play may be a turnoff for some
  • Daily resort and parking fees
  • Lounge chairs in high demand
4100 Wailea Alanui Dr., Wailea, HI, 96753, USA
808-875–4100
Hotel Details
450 suites
No Meals

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Recommended Fodor's Video

Fairway Villas Waikoloa by Outrigger

$$$ | 69-200 Pohakulana Pl., Waikoloa, HI, 96738, USA

These large and comfy town houses and condominiums, located just off the fairway of the Waikoloa Beach Course, are a short walk from Anaehoomalu Bay. Designed in the style of plantation-era homes, the villas are decorated with rattan furniture and tropical themes and come complete with top-notch appliances in fully equipped kitchens. A five-minute walk from the upscale Kings' Shops, the facility has its own infinity pool, a lava-rock whirlpool spa, and a small gym.

Pros

  • Good location for beach, shopping, dining, and golf
  • Infinity pool
  • Well-equipped kitchens

Cons

  • No ocean views
  • Lots of guest rules and regulations
  • Expensive cleaning fees
69-200 Pohakulana Pl., Waikoloa, HI, 96738, USA
808-886–0036
Hotel Details
70 units
No Meals

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Grand Wailea, a Waldorf Astoria Resort

$$$$ | 3850 Wailea Alanui Dr., Wailea, HI, 96753, USA

"Grand" is no exaggeration for this opulent, sunny, 40-acre resort that's wildly entertaining due to its elaborate water features such as the Wailea Activity Pool with enclosed "lava tube," slides, caves, a Tarzan swing, and the world's only water elevator. Paths meander tropical grounds, passing food gardens and artwork by noted international and Hawaiian artists. The Humuhumunukunukuapuaa restaurant—named for Hawaii's state fish—"floats" in a saltwater lagoon. The fabulous Spa Grande has wellness options that range from astrology to massage.

Pros

  • On beautiful Wailea Beach
  • Offers a large selection of cultural programs
  • Many shops

Cons

  • Daily resort and parking fees
  • Sprawling property can be difficult to traverse
  • Limited poolside chairs
3850 Wailea Alanui Dr., Wailea, HI, 96753, USA
808-875–1234
Hotel Details
776 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

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Hana-Maui Resort

$$$$ | 5031 Hana Hwy., HI, 96713, USA

Managed by Hyatt since 2020, this remote ocean-side getaway is being refreshed and refurbished and features rooms, bungalow suites, and villas, as well as sprawling lawns, two restaurants that welcome both guests and nonguests, a pool and pool bar, a fitness center, and a spa. Some units have private lanai and/or kitchenettes; the decor is contemporary with wood, wicker, and rattan fixtures and furnishings.

Pros

  • Welcoming and attentive staff
  • Romantic spot perfect for honeymooners
  • Complimentary cultural experiences and activities

Cons

  • Ongoing construction noise can be bothersome
  • Some suites still in desperate need of an upgrade
  • Disparity in quality of accommodations
5031 Hana Hwy., HI, 96713, USA
808-400–1234
Hotel Details
75 units
No Meals

Quick Facts

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Hanalei Bay Resort

$$$$ | 5380 Honoiki Rd., Princeville, HI, 96722, USA

The nicest feature of this three-story condominium resort overlooking Hanalei Bay is its upper-level pool with authentic lava-rock waterfalls, an open-air hot tub, and a kid-friendly sand beach. The buildings angle down the cliffs, making for some steep walking paths. Units are spacious, with high sloping ceilings and large private lanai. Rattan furniture and island art add a casual feeling to rooms. Some units are managed by the resort and others by private owners. All units have kitchens, including the smaller studios. This is a good choice for tennis buffs, and the on-site Happy Talk Lounge is lively in the evening with music, bar food, and dining.

Pros

  • Beautiful views
  • Restaurant, pool, tennis courts, and fitness center on property
  • Lively lounge

Cons

  • Steep walkways
  • Some units far from main building and restaurant
  • Long walk to beach
5380 Honoiki Rd., Princeville, HI, 96722, USA
808-826–6522
Hotel Details
134 units
No Meals

Quick Facts

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Hanalei Colony Resort

$$$$ | 5--7130 Kuhio Hwy., Haena, HI, 96714, USA

The only true beachfront resort on Kauai's North Shore, Hanalei Colony is a laid-back, go-barefoot kind of resort sandwiched between towering mountains and the sea. There's an emphasis on simplicity here, but Wi-Fi is available in every unit. Some units are 10 feet from the sand, and though it's a beautiful coastline, the ocean is normally too rough for swimming. Many of the units are individually owned and generally well maintained, with Hawaiian-style furnishings, full kitchens, and lanai. Amenities, such as cocktail receptions and cultural activities, vary from season to season. There's a new two-story garden pool complex, plus an art gallery, small day spa, and restaurant on-site.  The road leading to this resort can occasionally be closed due to flooding or road repair, causing delays and possibly blocking access to the airport, so plan accordingly.

Pros

  • Kitchens in units
  • Private quiet property
  • Well-maintained units with Hawaiian-style furnishings

Cons

  • Weak cell phone reception
  • Damp in winter
  • No TVs, room phones, or air-conditioning (rooms have ceiling fans)
5--7130 Kuhio Hwy., Haena, HI, 96714, USA
808-826–6235
Hotel Details
48 units
No Meals
2-night minimum stay required

Quick Facts

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Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort

$$$ | 2005 Kalia Rd., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA

Location, location, location: this five-tower mega-resort sprawls over 22 acres on Waikiki's widest stretch of beach, with the greenery of neighboring Fort DeRussy creating a buffer zone between it and central Waikiki's high-rise lineup. The property's sheer volume of facilities and many free activities (lei-making, ukelele lessons, turtle feedings) make it a good choice for families. The grounds incorporate not only gardens, koi ponds, and waterfalls, but also an aquatic playground of pools and slides, a 5-acre lagoon for kayaking, a pier that serves as a docking point for the Atlantis submarine, a post office, an ABC Store, the large Mandara Spa & Fitness Center, 20 restaurants and lounges (featuring some of Hawaii's best musicians), and dozens of shops. Rainbow Tower, with its landmark 31-story mural, has knockout Diamond Head views. Separate facilities and concierge services make The Alii feel like a private "resort within the resort." The Grand Islander, an on-site 418-unit vacation-ownership property, has lovely suites and access to many amenities. Be sure to check on the status of the hotel's weekly fireworks show, a favorite Friday night event that draws big crowds.

Pros

  • Activities and amenities keep you and the kids busy for weeks (including Friday night fireworks)
  • Stellar spa and fitness center
  • A large variety of room options

Cons

  • Size of property can be overwhelming
  • Resort fee is $50 per day
  • Parking is expensive ($49 per day for self-parking)
2005 Kalia Rd., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA
808-949–4321
Hotel Details
4,499 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

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Hilton Waikoloa Village

$$$$ | 69-425 Waikoloa Beach Dr., Waikoloa, HI, 96738, USA

Gondola trams glide by, pint-size guests zoom down the 175-foot waterslide, a bride poses on the grand staircase, a fire-bearing runner lights the torches along the seaside path at sunset—these are some typical scenes at this 62-acre megaresort. Shaded pathways lined with a multimillion-dollar Pacific Island art collection connect the three tall buildings, while Swiss-made trams and canal boats shuttle those who want to bypass the long hallways and meandering paths. Though there's no ocean beach, a seaside trail leads to Anaehoomalu Bay, one of the island's most beautiful tropical beaches. An ocean-side saltwater lagoon is great for families. Modern rooms in neutral tones have private lanai and are large enough to accommodate the families that flock here. The flagship restaurant, KPC (Kamuela Provision Company), presents incomparable coastline views. Although some may find the resort a fantasy version of Hawaii, others love it for its one-stop-shop approach to a Hawaii holiday.

Pros

  • Family-friendly saltwater lagoon
  • Lots of restaurant and activity options, including two golf courses
  • Close to retail shopping

Cons

  • Gigantic and crowded
  • $48 per night resort fee
  • Restaurants are pricey
69-425 Waikoloa Beach Dr., Waikoloa, HI, 96738, USA
808-886–1234
Hotel Details
1,241 rooms
No Meals

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Holua Resort at Mauna Loa Village

$$$$ | 78-7190 Kaleiopapa St., Kailua-Kona, HI, 96740, USA

Tucked away by Keauhou Bay amid a plethora of coconut trees, this well-maintained enclave of blue-roofed villas offers lots of amenities, including a 27-court tennis and pickleball center, swimming pools, hot tubs, a fitness center, waterfalls, and covered parking. Guests are minutes away from the island's best snorkel cruise, plus the many dining and grocery options at nearby Keauhou Shopping Center. The tennis center has hosted international tournaments featuring top WTA tour professionals, and has been recently upgraded to include 20 pickleball courts. 

Pros

  • Manicured gardens
  • Upscale feeling
  • Walking distance to major resort restaurants

Cons

  • No beach
  • Partial ocean views
  • No on-site restaurant
78-7190 Kaleiopapa St., Kailua-Kona, HI, 96740, USA
808-324–1550
Hotel Details
73 units
No Meals

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Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa

$$$ | 2424 Kalakaua Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA

There's no other resort between the ocean and this high-rise hotel, which is across the street from Kuhio Beach and features a lively, atrium-style lobby with three levels of shopping (including a farmers' market on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons), a two-story waterfall, gardens, and free live evening entertainment. Other amenities include the luxury Na Hoola Spa, with 16 treatment rooms and an array of specialty therapies; the street-level Kai Coffee; the SHOR breakfast restaurant; and SWIM, a casual poolside bar and lounge that serves sustainable seafood. Authentic on-site activities, such as lei-making and hula, are led by a native Hawaiian cultural practitioner. Aloha Friday events showcase Polynesian tattooing and feature a Samoan fire-knife performance.

Pros

  • On-site spa and many shopping and dining options
  • Spacious rooms with soaring windows and lanai
  • Beach chairs and towels for guests

Cons

  • In a very busy and crowded part of Waikiki
  • Small on-site pool
  • Resort fee is $45 per day
2424 Kalakaua Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA
808-923–1234-direct to hotel
Hotel Details
1,230 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

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Koloa Landing

$$$$ | 2641 Poipu Rd., HI, 96756, USA

A family-friendly option, this resort has incredible pools, an on-site spa, plenty of grassy play space, and apartment-style rooms with kitchen and laundry appliances and a bathroom for every bedroom. It's an easy walk to Kukuiula Shopping Village's boutiques, services, and eateries, including a spot with good shave ice. The seawall across from the property is a perfect spot for watching sunsets or the finish of the Kauai Marathon. The on-site convention space works well for corporate retreats, wedding receptions, and local fundraisers, to which hotel guests are often invited. 

Pros

  • Easy walk to dining and shopping
  • 350,000-gallon pool with waterslides
  • Large studios

Cons

  • Beach not good for swimming
  • Better for families than couples
  • Restaurant is poolside, not much view
2641 Poipu Rd., HI, 96756, USA
866-476–2964
Hotel Details
305 units
No Meals

Quick Facts

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Kona Coast Resort

$$$$ | 78-6842 Alii Dr., Keauhou, HI, 96739, USA

Just below Keauhou Shopping Center, this timeshare resort offers furnished condos on 21 acres with pleasant ocean views and a host of on-site amenities, including two swimming pools, dry sauna, beach volleyball, a cocktail bar, barbecue grills, a hot tub, tennis courts, a fitness center, hula classes, equipment rentals, and children's activities. There is even a small restaurant on-site. The complex is within walking distance of a movie theater, grocery store, Longs Drugs, and cafés and restaurants. Scuba and snorkel trips depart from nearby Keauhou Bay.

Pros

  • All rooms updated in 2018
  • Good amenities for kids
  • Away from the bustle of downtown Kailua-Kona

Cons

  • Some units have parking lot views
  • Not on the beach
  • Time-share salespeople
78-6842 Alii Dr., Keauhou, HI, 96739, USA
808-324–1721
Hotel Details
268 units
No Meals

Quick Facts

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The Lodge at Kukuiula

$$$$ | 2700 Ke Alaula St., HI, 96756, USA

The private Kukuiula development rents one- to four-bedroom luxury cottages and villas to nonmembers; all homes have spacious lanai with expansive views, high-end kitchens, and both indoor and outdoor showers. Guests who book through The Lodge have full access to amenities including The Clubhouse for complimentary continental breakfast, other dining, the spa and fitness complex, the pool, a 10-acre organic farm, and use of adventure outfitters. Sports facilities include courts for tennis, volleyball, basketball, and pickleball.

Pros

  • Top-tier luxury
  • Golf, tennis, bikes, and a 32-foot boat
  • Cultural activities

Cons

  • High price point
  • Must drive to beach, shops, and restaurants
  • Set apart from local scene
2700 Ke Alaula St., HI, 96756, USA
866-901–5204-for reservations
Hotel Details
42 homes
Free Breakfast

Quick Facts

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Marriott's Ko Olina Beach Club

$$$$ | 92-161 Waipahe Pl., Ko Olina, HI, 96707, USA

Though primarily a time-share property, the Marriott here also offers nightly rentals, which range from hotel-style standard guest rooms to expansive and elegantly appointed one- or two-bedroom guest villa apartments, all within Ko Olina's 642-acre gated community. Situated on 30 acres and fronting a lagoon, this Beach Club resort has three pools (one with a sandy-beach bottom), a fitness center, and seven outdoor hot tubs, including two overlooking the ocean that are ideal for sunset soaks. Guests can choose from two fine-dining restaurants on the property, a casual pool bar, and a Polynesian dinner show, or purchase groceries at The Marketplace.

Pros

  • Suites are beautifully decorated and have ample space for families
  • Nice views
  • Resort area offers entertainment, shopping, and dining options beyond the property

Cons

  • An hour to Honolulu and Waikiki
  • Rooms and suites vary, so ask when booking
  • The coast beyond Ko Olina is rural without a lot for visitors to do
92-161 Waipahe Pl., Ko Olina, HI, 96707, USA
808-679–4700
Hotel Details
544 units
No Meals

Quick Facts

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Mauna Lani Point and the Islands at Mauna Lani

$$$$ | 68-1050 Mauna Lani Point Dr., Mauna Lani, HI, 96743, USA

Surrounded by the emerald greens of a world-class oceanside golf course, the private, independent, luxury condominiums at Islands at Mauna Lani offer spacious two-story suites, while Mauna Lani Point's villas are closer to the beach. In the former, the privately owned units, individually decorated according to the owners' tastes, have European cabinets and oversize soaking tubs in the main bedrooms. The latter are smaller but have better views and are steps away from the water. Both properties are a short distance from the shopping, dining, and gourmet groceries at the Shops at Mauna Lani.

Pros

  • Friendly front desk
  • Stellar views
  • Extra-large units

Cons

  • Quite pricey
  • Individually owned units vary in decor and amenities
  • Some units are a distance from the barbecue/pool area
68-1050 Mauna Lani Point Dr., Mauna Lani, HI, 96743, USA
808-885–5022
Hotel Details
66 units
No Meals

Quick Facts

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OUTRIGGER Kauai Beach Resort & Spa

$$$ | 4331 Kauai Beach Dr., HI, 96766, USA

This plantation-style hotel provides a relaxing, upscale oceanfront experience close to the airport, but without the noise. The rooms are extremely comfortable with a casual tropical theme, and the oceanfront grounds are beautifully landscaped. Four pools with fun features like slides, sand bottoms, and waterfalls are a highlight, as are the torch-lighting ceremony and the reasonably good Naupaka Terrace Restaurant. The beach fronts a rocky ocean unsuitable for swimming, but it's perfect for a long stroll.

Pros

  • Four pools with fun features
  • Lawn games
  • Resort amenities

Cons

  • High parking fee
  • Beach not good for swimming
  • No nearby restaurants or resorts
4331 Kauai Beach Dr., HI, 96766, USA
866-471--0060-for reservations
Hotel Details
350 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

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Outrigger Kona Resort and Spa at Keauhou Bay

$$$ | 78-128 Ehukai St., Keauhou, HI, 96740, USA

What the hotel's concrete architecture lacks in intimacy, it makes up for with its beautifully manicured grounds, historical sense of place, stylish interiors, and stunning location on Keauhou Bay. Many rooms have great views of the bay and feel like they're right on the water, and each is decorated in a modern Polynesian style. Those traveling with kids appreciate the pool complex, one of the coolest on the island, with a slide, waterfalls, sand-bottom kids' pool, and an ocean view. There are plenty of activities, including daily historical walking tours, beginning hula, and puka shell bracelet making. A first rate luau, held on a grassy lawn with a backdrop of coconut trees, features the live Polynesian show Feast & Fire, which immerses guests in the area's history and culture. Take a walk in the evenings and spot the mantas that glide below the lanai in the glow of a spotlight.

Pros

  • Cool pool that's great for kids
  • Manta rays on view nightly
  • Resort style at lower price

Cons

  • No beach
  • Long walk from parking area
  • Wi-Fi can be spotty
78-128 Ehukai St., Keauhou, HI, 96740, USA
808-930–4900
Hotel Details
484 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

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Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort

$$$$ | 2335 Kalakaua Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA

Outrigger's star property sits on one of the finest sections of Waikiki Beach, a location that, along with an array of cultural and dining options and great live-music and bar scenes, makes it a favorite. Guest rooms in the 16-story resort have lanai with either ocean or Waikiki-skyline views and soundproof windows. Duke's Waikiki, a quintessential beach bar, hosts famed Grammy-nominated Hawaiian musician Henry Kapono every Sunday afternoon for a rollicking good time around the pool. The scene is so iconic that Kapono sings about it in a song titled "Dukes on Sundays." The Blue Note Hawaii offers nightly jazz, rhythm-and-blues, or other music by top-shelf local, national, and international artists. The Outrigger's Voyager 47 Club, a spacious indoor-outdoor, ocean-view lounge, serves continental breakfast, happy hour beverages, and snacks to guests who upgrade for access. Take a break from all the buzz with a Hawaiian seaweed wrap, a hot stone massage, or some other treatment in the rooftop spa.

Pros

  • The best beach bar in Waikiki
  • On-site activities and amenities (including a spa) abound
  • Excellent lounge that's worth splurging on an upgrade to access

Cons

  • A busy property (often used as a pedestrian throughway to the beach)
  • Resort fee is $45 per day
  • Rooms are dated
2335 Kalakaua Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA
808-923–0711
Hotel Details
525 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

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Paradise Bay Resort

$$ | 47-039 Lihikai Dr., Kaneohe, HI, 96744, USA

Right on picturesque Kaneohe Bay amid the junglelike fauna of the windward side, this resort offers apartment-style units ranging from cozy studios to spacious two-bedroom suites with breathtaking views of the majestic Koolau Mountains; one stand-alone cottage is in a remote area not generally frequented by tourists. All accommodations have either a full kitchen or kitchenette; suites have a private lanai. Units do not have their own washer/dryers, but there is guest laundry on-site. For an additional fee, you can take a guided tour of Kaneohe Bay on Wednesday afternoon to snorkel with endangered Hawaiian sea turtles and manta rays, or, on Saturday morning, take a chartered boat to the sandbar. Wi-Fi, use of the pool, and beach gear are included in the hefty resort fee; pets can stay for an additional nightly fee.

Pros

  • Local, authentic experience
  • Beautiful views over the bay
  • En suite kitchens or kitchenettes

Cons

  • Remote location not near most other attractions
  • Neighborhood is a bit run-down
  • Rental car a necessity (but parking included in $38 nightly resort fee)
47-039 Lihikai Dr., Kaneohe, HI, 96744, USA
808-239–5711
Hotel Details
46 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

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Royal Lahaina Resort

$$$$ | 2780 Kekaa Dr., Kaanapali, HI, 96761, USA

Built in 1962, this grand property on the uncrowded, sandy shore in North Kaanapali has hosted millionaires and Hollywood stars, and today it pleases families and budget seekers as well as luxury travelers with a variety of lodging options. The decor plays off an ocean-sports theme that complements the understated furnishings, which include plush beds with Egyptian cotton linens, Hawaiian quilts, tropical wood paneling, vintage artwork, and a saltwater aquarium in the breezy lobby. The one- and two-bedroom cottage units, with modern kitchen appliances and fixtures are ideal for families and guests seeking a more private, homelike experience.

Pros

  • On-site luau
  • Variety of lodgings and rates
  • Tennis ranch with 11 courts and a pro shop

Cons

  • Older property
  • Daily self-parking fee
  • Evening luau noise can be loud
2780 Kekaa Dr., Kaanapali, HI, 96761, USA
800-447–6925
Hotel Details
447 units
No Meals

Quick Facts

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The Royal Sonesta Kauai Resort Lihue

$$$$ | 3610 Rice St., HI, 96766, USA

A $50 million refurbishment of guest rooms and common areas has refreshed this resort, whose sprawling property fronts the sandy shore of Kalapaki Bay and offers a lovely view of dramatic Haupu Ridge. The grounds are lush and lavish, with tropical gardens, waterfalls, Greek statues and columns, and an enormous 26,000-square-foot swimming pool. This resort is a one-stop destination, with dining, shopping, a spa, golf, tennis, fitness center, and water activities of all kinds on-site; other restaurants, resort amenities, and shops are nearby. Most rooms have expansive ocean views and some have separate sitting areas. Five-night stays are required in peak season, and housekeeping is weekly. A $30 parking fee has been imposed, but there is a convenient free shuttle to the airport for those who want to avoid renting a car. The resort is a comfortable and convenient for families and people seeking a lively resort experience.

Pros

  • Oceanfront setting
  • Plenty of resort amenities
  • Free airport shuttle

Cons

  • Airport noise
  • Ocean water quality can be poor at times
  • Located near an industrial area
3610 Rice St., HI, 96766, USA
808-245–5050
Hotel Details
367 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

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Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort

$$$ | 650 Aleka Loop, HI, 96746, USA

One of the few true oceanfront properties on Kauai, this popular hotel sits on a ribbon of sand in Kapaa and has bright spacious rooms that face the ocean, garden, coconut grove, or pool. Rooms include a coffeemaker, free Wi-Fi, and HDTV, and there's a gift shop, fitness center, coffee shop, juice bar, and three restaurants on-site. Each oceanfront room has a large lanai. The 11-acre site has always been desirable, nestled as it is among ancient coconut groves and close to a coastal bike and walking path, shops, restaurants, and the ocean. Cultural activities include hula, lei-making, and a luau.

Pros

  • Access to coastal path
  • Near shops and restaurants
  • Pleasant grounds

Cons

  • Coastline not conducive to swimming
  • Small pool
  • High daily parking fee
650 Aleka Loop, HI, 96746, USA
808-822–3455
Hotel Details
311 rooms
No Meals

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Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa

$$$$ | 2552 Kalakaua Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA

Set on 5 acres across from Kuhio Beach and close to Kapiolani Park, the Honolulu Zoo, and the Waikiki Aquarium, this flagship Marriott offers daily activities for children and adults and has an expansive pool deck with ocean views, several pools, plenty of cabanas and lounge chairs, and the large, outdoor Queensbreak restaurant. Rooms, all with private lanai, vary in size and configuration: those in the Kealohilani Tower are some of the largest in Waikiki; those on the Diamond Head side of the Paoakalani Tower offer breathtaking views of the crater and Kapiolani Park. Royal Kaila Spa offers an extensive menu of services, and the 3,000-square-foot, 24-hour fitness center has floor-to-ceiling windows and state-of-the-art equipment.

Pros

  • Massive pool deck
  • Lots of airy, tropical public spaces
  • Central location in Waikiki

Cons

  • Large impersonal hotel, requires lots of walking
  • Self-parking is $45 per day
  • Resort fee is $50 per day
2552 Kalakaua Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96815, USA
808-922–6611
Hotel Details
1,310 rooms
No Meals

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Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort and Spa

$$$$ | 69-275 Waikoloa Beach Dr., Waikoloa, HI, 96738, USA

Encompassing 15 acres replete with ancient fishponds, historic trails, and petroglyph fields, the Marriott offers rooms with sleek modern beds, bright white linens, Hawaiian art, and private lanai. The hotel has three pools: a heated infinity pool, a pool with a sandy entrance for kids, and one with a waterslide for the young and young at heart. The resort's two restaurants, Hawaii Calls Restaurant and Lounge (open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner), and Akaula Lanai (a "coffee and cocktail" restaurant) showcase beautiful views of Waikoloa Beach. Experience a renowned luau and show Wednesday or Saturday. There are also many great eateries within walking distance at the Kings' Shops and Queens' MarketPlace. The hotel's Mandara Spa pampers with a full range of treatments in a spacious wellness center. Bordering the white-sand beach of Anaehoomalu Bay, the hotel offers ocean activities through Ocean Sports Hawaii, including stand-up paddleboards, hydro-bikes, kayaks, and wedding-vow renewals on a catamaran. The resort recently received honors for its efforts to enhance the local community. 

Pros

  • More low-key than the Hilton Waikoloa
  • Sunset luau Wednesday and Saturday
  • Sand-bottom pool for kids

Cons

  • Some rooms lack views
  • Expensive daily parking charge
  • Resort fee of $40 per day
69-275 Waikoloa Beach Dr., Waikoloa, HI, 96738, USA
808-886–6789
Hotel Details
297 rooms
No Meals

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The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort

$$$$ | 62-100 Kaunaoa Dr., Mauna Kea, HI, 96743, USA

Known for its direct access to the Big Island's largest white-sand beach, this massive hotel has enormous columns and a terraced, open-air lobby with a rotunda ceiling, curved staircases, and skylights. All rooms face the ocean, creating an expansive property with long walking distances. At night, understated lighting transforms the hotel into an architectural showplace. Rooms are large, with marble bathrooms and plenty of in-room amenities like coffeemakers and robes, and the staff is exceedingly helpful. The spa offers both Balinese and Hawaiian therapies. The resort offers excellent cuisine—the Naupaka Beach Grill serves casual lunch and dinner daily, while Meridia features gourmet dining from its ocean-view perch. There's also a breakfast buffet each morning at Ikena Landing. An on-site deli-café provides affordable options for light meals on the go for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The 18-hole golf course, designed by Arnold Palmer and Ed Seay, has topped many a "best courses" list.

Pros

  • Extra-large rooms, all ocean-facing
  • Helpful staff
  • 18-hole championship golf course

Cons

  • Fitness center a five-minute walk from the hotel
  • $35/day parking fee
  • 30 miles from Kailua-Kona
62-100 Kaunaoa Dr., Mauna Kea, HI, 96743, USA
808-880–1111
Hotel Details
249 rooms
No Meals

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The Westin Maui Resort & Spa

$$$$ | 2365 Kaanapali Pkwy., Kaanapali, HI, 96761, USA

This 12-acre beachfront paradise offers a setting that is both beautiful and calming, as evidenced by the green living wall and cascading waterfall in the lobby, which gives way to an aquatic playground with five swimming pools, as well as abundant waterfalls and lagoons. Book a room in the recently refreshed Hokupaa resort within a resort to enjoy deluxe rooms and lots of other perks.

Pros

  • Cultural activities for kids and adults
  • Excellent concierge desk
  • One adults-only pool

Cons

  • Daily resort and parking fees
  • A lot going on
  • Crowded pool and common areas
2365 Kaanapali Pkwy., Kaanapali, HI, 96761, USA
808-667–2525
Hotel Details
770 rooms
No Meals

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The Westin Nanea Ocean Villas

$$$$ | 45 Kai Malina Pkwy., Kaanapali, HI, 96751, USA

It's rare to find a resort that so thoroughly incorporates authentic Hawaiian cultural symbols and traditions into its design, but this deluxe beachfront property in North Kaanapali carries this commitment into its native landscaping and its Puuhonua O Nanea cultural center, which offers displays of artifacts, as well as activities and talks. More home than hotel, the one- to three-bedroom "villas" have full kitchens, washer/dryers, and master bathroom perks such as free-standing soaking tubs and double-sink vanities.

Pros

  • "zero-entry" family pool with sandy bottom and water slide
  • Great location for snorkeling and water sports
  • Free shuttle to other Westin resorts

Cons

  • May be pitched to join time-share club
  • Outside main Kaanapali resort
  • Limited dining options
45 Kai Malina Pkwy., Kaanapali, HI, 96751, USA
808-662–6300
Hotel Details
390 units
No Meals

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The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas

$$$$ | 3838 Wyllie Rd., Princeville, HI, 96722, USA

Spread out over 18½ acres on a bluff above Anini Beach, this Westin property marries the comforts of spacious condominium living with the top-notch service and amenities of a luxurious hotel resort. Studios and one- and two-bedroom units are offered—many of which have ocean views and lawn-facing lanai where nene, Hawaii's threatened state goose, amble by with their young—and there's a nice pool for children. From the tapa-inspired art in each villa's living room to the wood cutouts of Hawaii's state plant, taro, the place has a relaxing ambience with Hawaiian elements.

Pros

  • On-site minimarket
  • Ocean views
  • Kids' program

Cons

  • Path to the nearby beach is a steep six- to seven-minute walk
  • Whirlpool tub is small
  • Units can be far from parking
3838 Wyllie Rd., Princeville, HI, 96722, USA
808-827–8700
Hotel Details
366 units
No Meals

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