A Comprehensive Guide to Hawaii’s Best Resorts
From its soft, sandy beaches to the rugged mountain ranges, from the vibrant city life to the tranquility of nature, Hawaii is an island paradise teeming with rich culture and breathtaking beauty. If you’re considering a vacation to this tropical haven, you’ve made a splendid choice! Hawaii’s resorts are renowned for their world-class amenities, unique ambiance, and stunning views, and this guide will help you navigate the multitude of options to pick the one that suits you the best.
Aloha and Welcome: Understanding Hawaiian Resorts
Resorts in Hawaii come in many shapes and sizes. From luxury hotels offering high-end amenities to tranquil beachfront cottages, there is a resort for every type of traveler. But regardless of where you stay, you’ll be greeted with the spirit of aloha — the essence of Hawaiian hospitality. Now, let’s get into the specifics and explore some of the best resorts Hawaii has to offer!
Luxury Resorts
1. The Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, Big Island
If luxury is your thing, look no further than the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai on the Big Island. This award-winning resort offers a spectacular blend of native Hawaiian culture and the epitome of luxury. It features seven pools, a world-class spa, and a Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course. It’s a perfect place for relaxation and rejuvenation amidst stunning natural beauty.
2. The St. Regis Princeville Resort, Kauai
Located in Kauai, known as “The Garden Isle,” The St. Regis Princeville Resort is another magnificent option for luxury seekers. It overlooks Hanalei Bay and offers dramatic Bali Hai views. The resort boasts refined rooms and suites, a spa, and a golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones, Jr. Take a dip in the infinity pool and enjoy the sight of water extending into the ocean horizon.
Family-friendly Resorts
1. Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa, Oahu
A trip to Aulani is every kid’s dream come true, and let’s be honest, it’s pretty amazing for adults too! Located on the western shore of Oahu, Aulani blends Disney magic with Hawaiian spirit. From character breakfasts to themed parties, there’s never a dull moment. For parents, the resort offers a top-notch spa and adults-only pools. Truly, there’s something for every family member at Aulani.
2. Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort, Maui
With nine pools, a 2,000-foot-long lazy river, and a beachfront location on Maui’s south shore, the Grand Wailea is a fantastic family-friendly resort. The resort also offers a kids’ club, ensuring your little ones have plenty of activities to enjoy while adults can relax at the award-winning Spa Grande.
Budget-friendly Resorts
1. Kaanapali Beach Hotel, Maui
Known as the “most Hawaiian hotel,” the Kaanapali Beach Hotel in Maui offers an authentic Hawaiian experience without breaking the bank. Nestled on a prime beachfront location, it offers traditional Hawaiian cultural activities and has a large pool area. It’s a great value for money option for budget-conscious travelers who still want to enjoy the magic of a Hawaiian resort.
2. Aston Waikiki Beach Tower, Oahu
Located just a stone’s throw away from Waikiki Beach, the Aston Waikiki Beach Tower provides affordable luxury with fully equipped one and two-bedroom suites. The resort offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and is close to shopping, dining, and nightlife in Waikiki.
Resorts for Adventure Seekers
1. Turtle Bay Resort, Oahu
If your ideal vacation involves exploring the great outdoors, consider staying at the Turtle Bay Resort on Oahu’s North Shore. The resort offers direct access to hiking trails, horseback riding, and two championship golf courses. It’s also the only resort on Oahu with surfable waves — perfect for the adventure-seeking traveler!
2. Travaasa Hana, Maui
Located in the remote town of Hana on Maui’s eastern coast, Travaasa Hana is a haven for adventure enthusiasts. The resort offers guided tours, cultural classes, horseback riding, and even traditional net fishing. If you’re not too exhausted after a day full of adventure, spend your evening enjoying the resort’s luxury spa and delicious dining options.
Romantic Getaways
1. Halekulani, Oahu
For a memorable romantic escape, check into Halekulani, an oasis of tranquility in the heart of bustling Waikiki. Here, you can enjoy the privacy of a beachfront room with panoramic ocean views. The resort is known for its impressive infinity pool designed with a mosaic of 1.2 million pieces of South African glass, forming an orchid pattern. Don’t forget to try a romantic dinner at La Mer, their upscale French restaurant, as the sun sets over the ocean.
2. Hotel Wailea, Maui
As the first and only Relais & Châteaux property in Hawaii, Hotel Wailea promises a unique experience for lovebirds. It’s an adults-only resort, ensuring a serene and romantic environment. Spread across 15 acres of beautiful landscape, the hotel provides luxury suites, a beach valet, and a beautiful pool with a breathtaking view of the ocean. You can also participate in unique experiences like aerial silks classes, mixology sessions, or even a romantic beachside dinner for two.
Resorts for Spa Lovers
1. The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua, Maui
If you’re seeking rejuvenation, consider The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua. Located on a 22,000-acre historic pineapple plantation, the resort is home to the Waihua Spa, one of the top wellness centers in Hawaii. Here, you can choose from a variety of unique treatments using natural ingredients like pineapple and papaya, or even opt for an indigenous Hawaiian Lomi Lomi massage.
2. Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection, Big Island
Mauna Lani Spa, housed within the Mauna Lani resort, is a luxury spa that draws from the island’s natural healing elements. It’s known for its unique Lava Sauna treatment, where you relax in a natural lava sauna, followed by a refreshing outdoor shower and a soothing massage with Hawaiian Noni lotion.
Eco-Friendly Resorts
1. The Modern Honolulu, Oahu
For environmentally conscious travelers, The Modern Honolulu stands out with its ‘green’ initiatives. This eco-friendly resort offers a stylish and contemporary setting without compromising on sustainability. They’ve implemented a range of eco-friendly practices, from using locally-sourced ingredients in their restaurants to offering a shuttle service that reduces the carbon footprint.
2. Lumeria Maui
A tranquil retreat nestled on six lush acres, Lumeria Maui is an educational and adventure retreat center dedicated to sustainable living practices. It’s the perfect place to unwind and connect with nature. Enjoy yoga and meditation classes, farm-to-table dining, and garden tours that educate about local flora and the importance of conservation.
From stunning landscapes and world-class amenities to unique Hawaiian experiences, each resort in Hawaii offers something special. This guide should give you a head start on picking the perfect resort for your Hawaiian vacation. Remember, no matter where you stay, the islands’ spirit will undoubtedly leave you enchanted. So here’s to your upcoming journey filled with sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and the warm aloha spirit of Hawaii!