Top 15 Hawaiian Resorts for an Unforgettable Getaway

Hawaii is likely the initial destination that comes to mind when one thinks of the term “tropical.” With volcanic landscapes for hiking, sandy beaches for leisurely walks, and vibrant underwater ecosystems for exploration, Hawaii presents an ideal setting for some of the world’s most exquisite resorts. The stunning beaches, coupled with verdant mountainous scenery, might inspire a ranking of the top 15 resorts on each distinct island.

The resorts in this region embody considerable opulence and exclusivity, encompassing oceanfront villas, cozy suites, and impressive outdoor amenities. They offer excellent golf courses and exceptional spa services. The local culture and the spirit of aloha are manifest in the decor, entertainment, and hospitality experienced here. Moreover, the culinary scene celebrates fresh seafood and traditional Hawaiian cuisine. Visitors to the islands can anticipate sun-filled days, adventurous surfing, delectable local dishes, and engaging activities.

Let us explore the best resorts in Hawaii:

1. Four Seasons Maui at Wailea

Source: fourseasons

This distinguished retreat by Four Seasons embodies the expectations of a renowned luxury hotel brand. Situated on the picturesque crescent of Wailea Beach, the resort boasts over 380 rooms and suites adorned with a contemporary Hawaiian design. Visitors can relax on their balcony from an oceanfront room or choose the Lokelani Presidential Suite, featuring a private garden and deck, along with a Sonos sound system and butler’s kitchen. This venue embodies sophistication.

The on-site concierge is available to assist with arranging any traditional Hawaiian activities, such as luaus, whale watching expeditions, or photography excursions. Guests may also schedule rounds of golf at one of the three championship courses located at Wailea Golf Club. The resort spa includes 13 treatment rooms and oceanside thatched huts for relaxation and therapies. Consider partaking in stand-up paddleboarding yoga, which has become quite popular, or indulging in a massage by the poolside. With three swimming pools, three celebrated restaurants, and a private beachfront lounging area, you may find it challenging to leave.

Website: http://www.fourseasons.com/maui/

2. Ko’a Kea Hotel & Resort at Po’ipu Beach

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This boutique resort, located on Kauai’s southern coast, features 121 rooms within an intimate and romantic setting. Renowned for personalized service and exceptional amenities, guests can engage in various activities at the Poipu Beach activity center, including surfing, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and kayaking, with gear rentals and instruction available. Alternatively, visitors might opt for a cliff-top hike, a round of golf, or a visit to Old Koloa Town.

For those staying at the resort, the full-service spa, saltwater pool, and poolside bar offer inviting options. A fitness center is accessible for those looking to remain active on vacation. Each room includes a balcony and outdoor area, providing excellent views of the ocean or gardens, complemented by modern decor. Dining is available at the sophisticated yet casual Red Salt, the on-site restaurant known for contemporary Hawaiian dishes and fresh seafood, with a sushi bar offered on select evenings and breakfast featuring items such as lobster benedict.

Website: http://meritagecollection.com/koakea/

3. The Royal Hawaiian

Source: royal-hawaiian

Situated on the renowned Waikiki Beach, the Royal Hawaiian is a historic establishment in Honolulu that consistently ranks among the “best of Hawaii.” This legendary resort, often referred to as the “Pink Palace of the Pacific,” offers guests superior concierge service, ensuring an elegant retreat. The hotel features over 500 rooms, each with its own private lanai (porch) offering ocean vistas. The accommodations showcase dark wood furnishings, luxurious pillows, and bathrobes, along with a fresh flower lei provided upon arrival.

At the Abhasa Spa, patrons can indulge in treatments amidst a tropical garden atmosphere, offering local massage styles and salon services. Each evening, live Hawaiian entertainment is featured at the Mai Tai Bar, alongside beachfront cabanas and a pool equipped with sumptuous lounge chairs and a jacuzzi. The Azure Restaurant provides a dining experience of fresh Hawaiian fish presented in an intimate setting complete with candlelight and plush pillows.

Website: https://www.royal-hawaiian.com/

4. Andaz Maui at Wailea

Source: hyatt

This Hyatt resort provides guests with an oceanfront experience on the shores of Wailea Beach, offering the quintessential white sand surroundings, should they choose to leave their luxurious accommodations. The property includes 290 rooms and suites, along with ten villas for those seeking an upgraded experience. Each unit features a private lanai, complimentary wifi, and views of either the ocean or gardens, while villas include a Viking grill, gourmet kitchen, and private outdoor area with a plunge pool.

Visitors can appreciate breathtaking sunsets from beachfront lounge chairs, traverse the volcanic trails of Haleakala State Park, or snorkel at Makena State Beach. The infinity pool, opportunities for golf, and appointments at the lavish ‘Awili Spa further enhance the experience. Lunch options abound at the Bumbye Beach Bar, which serves island-inspired dishes and refreshing cocktails. As evening approaches, guests should not miss Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto’s fresh fish and sushi at his on-site restaurant or the farm-to-table offerings at Ka’ana Kitchen.

Website: https://maui.andaz.hyatt.com/en/hotel/home.html

5. Four Seasons Resort Hualalai

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Nestled along the Kona-Kohala Coast, the Four Seasons consistently meets and exceeds expectations, particularly in Hawaii. This property delivers unparalleled luxury accommodations, featuring guest rooms situated in two-story bungalows adorned with native Hawaiian art and decor inspired by the surrounding natural beauty. The outdoor settings are breathtaking. Options include rooms offering unparalleled views of the Pacific Ocean or suites with granite bathrooms and private outdoor showers.

The concierge service ensures excellent arrangements for exploring volcanoes, snorkeling expeditions, triathlon training, or golf on the prestigious Hualalai Golf Course. Hosting seven swimming pools, including the expansive 1.8 million-gallon “King’s Pond” filled with 4,000 species of fish suitable for snorkeling and viewing, the resort promises exceptional aquatic experiences. Guests can also pamper themselves at the full-service spa, which features saunas, steam rooms, and plunge pools. Dining options include a beach bar, sushi lounge, and three restaurants showcasing local ingredients.

Website: http://www.fourseasons.com/hualalai/

6. The Ritz-Carlton Kapalua

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The name “The Ritz” instantly evokes luxury, and this establishment in Maui indeed upholds that reputation. Featuring two golf courses, a locally-inspired spa, and six diverse dining options, this resort ensures a comprehensive luxury experience. Each room boasts lanai balconies and marble bathrooms, with numerous upgrade options available, from additional balconies to private dining spaces and exclusive Club Level access, including a dedicated concierge and continuous culinary offerings.

Explore the local beaches and waterfalls, unwind at the spa, or partake in hiking and horseback riding adventures. Helicopter tours can also be arranged, as well as sport fishing excursions or scuba diving. The various restaurant offerings include fresh seafood, Pacific cuisine, burgers, local coffee, gourmet pastries, and sushi. For an exceptional morning experience, a visit to the bloody mary bar is recommended. The options available are vast.

Website: http://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/kapalua-maui

7. Montage Kapalua Bay

Source: montagehotels

Spanning over 24 acres along the shores of Kapalua Bay, this resort features championship golf, water sports, an award-winning spa, and exceptional island hospitality. All accommodations consist of expansive suites ranging from one-bedroom garden views to four-bedroom premier oceanfront penthouses. Guests benefit from amenities including deep soaking tubs with exclusive bath products, gourmet kitchens, private lanais, and DIRECTV with DVR.

Guests can engage in horseback riding, hiking, ziplining, or sport fishing excursions. Alternatively, they may explore local food and wine tours through nearby farms, breweries, and vineyards. The Kapalua Beach Crew offers chair and towel services, alongside rentals for snorkeling or paddleboarding. Light fare and cocktails are available poolside at the Hana Hau Bar, while most meals take place at Cane & Canoe, the oceanfront restaurant focusing on local seafood and Hawaiian cuisine, renowned for its fresh catch, Pacific Rim cioppino, and crispy suckling pig.

Website: https://www.montagehotels.com/kapaluabay/

8. Halekulani

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This resort is characterized by tranquility, understated elegance, and exceptional service. As a five-star property located in Waikiki, Halekulani decorates its opulent guest accommodations in what it terms “seven shades of white.” Each room is spacious and features a private lanai, with premier suites including a personal butler service and complimentary airport limousine transport. Spa Halekulani, located beachfront, provides organic treatments, nail care, massages, facials, and a full range of services for men. Additionally, a fitness area with exercise classes is available.

Relax by the remarkable 82-foot pool adorned with an orchid tile mosaic or enjoy the beach while participating in the daily surf demonstration. The attentive staff can arrange outrigger canoe outings, deep sea fishing, sailing, and snorkeling expeditions. Offering a diverse selection of dining experiences ranging from casual to fine dining, visitors can indulge in a signature Mai Tai at the House Without A Key, their indoor-outdoor bar, or enjoy live jazz at Lewers Lounge. For an outdoor dining experience, Orchids offers al fresco dining, while the five-diamond La Mer presents a more formal setting.

Website: https://www.halekulani.com/

9. The Kahala Hotel & Resort

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Located in Honolulu, this luxury retreat is well-known for hosting celebrities, dignitaries, and royalty. The accommodations are spacious and welcoming, outfitted with patios and balconies, dressing tables, robes and slippers, and high-end toiletries available on request. Arrangements can be made for dolphin watching in the bay, canoe sailing tours, or relaxation along their expansive 800-foot beach. Surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking lessons are also provided, alongside yoga classes including SUP yoga.

The Kahala Spa integrates Hawaiian healing methods and utilizes fresh organic components. Dining options are varied, from lavish buffet offerings to wine tastings, with the ability to pre-arrange romantic, private dinners on the beach. Guests can enjoy a relaxed lunch at the Seaside Grill, afternoon tea at The Veranda, or innovative fusion cuisine at Hoku’s. A hospitality suite for guests provides convenience for lounging before or after departure.

Website: https://www.kahalaresort.com/

10. Fairmont Orchid

Source: fairmont

Perched along the Kahala Coast on the Big Island of Hawaii, the Fairmont Orchid is a prestigious four-diamond property encompassing 32 beautiful oceanfront acres. Guests can partake in various yoga classes, including the popular SUP yoga, play sand volleyball, or rent beachside or poolside cabanas. Additionally, golfing opportunities at the adjacent course and cultural hikes are available. The Spa Without Walls, set amidst lush gardens, features waterfalls and oceanfront treatment rooms, along with steam rooms and saunas.

All of their 540 rooms include a private lanai with ocean views, complimentary wifi, 42” flat-screen TVs, and marble bathrooms featuring bathtubs. Dining options encompass Hawaiian cuisine and upscale dining at Brown’s Beach House Restaurant, alongside casual beachfront dining at Hale Kai. Sushi is available at Norio’s, and guests can enjoy cocktails and live music at the Luana Lounge during sunset.

Website: http://www.fairmont.com/orchid-hawaii/

11. Turtle Bay Resort

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Located on Oahu’s North Shore, this resort is frequently regarded as a preferred destination among travelers. Guests have access to two championship golf courses and unique group fitness classes such as Tahitian Dancing and Beach Boot Camp for those seeking exercise. The Turtle Bay Spa utilizes sustainable, natural ingredients for treatments including aromatherapy, beachside massages, and seaweed body wraps. From paddleboarding to surfing lessons, kayaking, snorkeling, or helicopter tours, the variety of activities available is extensive.

The Point Sunset & Pool Bar provides poolside service, offering cocktails and dishes including mahi mahi tacos, while daybed or cabana rentals enhance comfort. Additionally, all necessary beach gear is available for guests to enhance their beach experience. Rooms feature ocean views, private balconies, and expansive stone showers. Culinary experiences range from Hawaii’s freshest seafood to modern Asian fusion, and live music adds vibrancy to meals at Turtle Bay.

Website: http://www.turtlebayresort.com/

12. Hotel Wailea

Source: hotelwailea

This resort emphasizes privacy and romance, featuring a highly exclusive property with 72 luxury suites spread across 15 acres by the sea in Maui. It is designed for couples seeking an intimate getaway, with chic beach house-style suites that include ocean-facing private lanais. Each suite is equipped with Italian granite countertops, hardwood floors, plush bathrobes, luxury linens, and deep soaking tubs.

The activities offered are equally unique. Guests may participate in a Hawaiian outrigger canoe experience, aerial silk yoga classes, or kiteboarding lessons, in addition to embarking on an “island beach safari” for snorkeling, pristine sand, and sea turtle encounters. Evening meals resonate with romance, featuring European-inspired, farm-to-table dishes. For a unique dining experience (or proposal), inquire about a meal in The Treehouse, an intimate open-air structure nestled within avocado and mango trees.

Website: http://www.hotelwailea.com/

13. Grand Hyatt Kauai

Source: hyatt

This beachfront resort on Kauai is situated between the white sand beaches of Poipu and lush green mountains, serving as an excellent location for both romantic vacations and family trips. The spacious rooms and suites include private lanais, plush beds, complimentary wifi, and large flat-screen TVs, although the surroundings often entice guests to venture outdoors. The resort can organize a variety of activities, ranging from championship golf rounds to hiking, mountain biking, zip-lining, scuba diving, or traditional luau dancing.

On-site, visitors can enjoy koi feedings, interact with parrots, or take part in a garden tour or wildlife walk. In the evening, live music and hula performances can be enjoyed at the Seaview Terrace. The Anara Spa, arguably the largest on Kauai, encompasses 45,000 square feet of treatment areas, saunas, and a fitness center offering open-air yoga. Dining options are extensive, allowing guests to savor sushi, creative cocktails, Italian cuisine, and local Hawaiian dishes amidst tiki torch ambiance.

Website: https://kauai.grand.hyatt.com/en/hotel/home.html

14. Aulani

Source: disneyaulani

Among the luxurious and romantic resorts highlighted in this list, it is essential to include a family-friendly venue, and Disney excels in this regard. Beyond their exquisite beach, guests can revel in three pools, a lazy river, splash zones, and whirlpool spas. Opportunities for golfing at the nearby Ko Olina Golf Club, catamaran rentals, or horseback riding excursions are readily available. Alternatively, guests may simply borrow a complimentary boogie board and hit the waves.

The Laniwai Spa boasts vibrant vitality pools, mineral pools, family-oriented treatments, and the island’s only outdoor hydrotherapy garden. The accommodations are both comfortable and luxurious, equipped with iHome docking stations, complimentary wifi, and private porches or balconies. Diverse dining options are available, including a pool bar, cafe, snack station, shaved ice stand, and modern Hawaiian cuisine at the beachside eatery ‘Ama’ama.

Website: https://www.disneyaulani.com/

15. The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas

Situated along the rugged North Shore coastline of Kauai, this Westin property offers a luxurious sanctuary from which guests can explore the island. From horseback riding amidst the Namolokama mountain range to kayaking along the Hanalei River and hiking the breathtaking Napali Coast, activities abound. Princeville Ranch Adventures can arrange ziplining and other excursions on privately-owned land for a more intimate experience. Of course, unwinding at the spa or by the large infinity pool surrounded by tropical gardens adjacent to the beach is also appealing.

The Villas are designed with a contemporary Hawaiian aesthetic and provide ample space for families. Guests can prepare favorite home-cooked meals in the fully equipped kitchen or savor breakfast, lunch, or dinner made with local ingredients at the Nanea Restaurant & Bar. The resort complex boasts four distinct swimming pools, one particularly tailored for children, making it a wonderful family-friendly destination perfectly suited for adventurous packages along with the island ambiance.

Website: https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/lihwp-the-westin-princeville-ocean-resort-villas/overview/