15 Best Resorts in Hawaii
Aloha, fellow adventurers! Have you ever dreamed of a place where emerald mountains meet sapphire seas, where the scent of plumeria fills the air, and every sunset paints a masterpiece? Welcome to Hawaii, a paradise unlike any other, offering a blend of breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and unparalleled luxury. This isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience that awakens the senses and rejuvenates the soul. From the volcanic wonders of the Big Island to the lush valleys of Maui, the vibrant shores of Oahu, and the tranquil beauty of Kauai, Hawaii promises an escape tailored to every desire.
Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a solo retreat into serenity, the islands’ premier resorts stand ready to turn your dreams into reality. The best time to visit Hawaii is generally during the shoulder seasons of April-May and September-October, when the weather is beautiful, and crowds are thinner, offering a more serene and often more affordable experience. Prepare to discover the 15 best resorts that define Hawaiian luxury and hospitality, each a gateway to unforgettable memories.
💰 Travel Cost Overview
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (per night) | $150-250 (hostels, budget hotels) | $250-500 (mid-tier hotels, condos) | $600-1500+ (luxury resorts, villas) |
| Food & Dining (per day) | $50-80 (food trucks, casual eateries) | $80-150 (sit-down restaurants, some fine dining) | $150-300+ (gourmet meals, resort dining) |
| Transportation (per day) | $20-40 (public bus, shuttle) | $50-80 (car rental + gas) | $80-150 (premium car rental, taxi/rideshare often) |
| Parking (per day, if applicable) | $0-15 (street parking, some free lots) | $15-30 (hotel parking, paid lots) | $35-60 (resort valet, premium parking) |
| Activities & Attractions (average entry fees, tours) | $30-70 (hiking, free beaches, some museums) | $70-150 (snorkeling tours, luaus, national parks) | $150-500+ (helicopter tours, private lessons, high-end excursions) |
| Total Daily Budget (Low) | $250-400 | ||
| Total Daily Budget (Medium) | $450-800 | ||
| Total Daily Budget (High) | $900-2500+ | ||
| Weekly Budget Estimates (Low) | $1750-2800 | ||
| Weekly Budget Estimates (Medium) | $3150-5600 | ||
| Weekly Budget Estimates (High) | $6300-17500+ |
Four Seasons Maui at Wailea
Perched on the golden sands of Wailea, Four Seasons Maui at Wailea redefines luxury with its impeccable service and breathtaking ocean views. What makes this resort truly special is its seamless blend of opulence and authentic Hawaiian charm. You’ll discover three stunning pools, including an adults-only Serenity Pool with swim-up bar and an exhilarating Fountain Pool perfect for families, complete with a waterslide. Expect world-class dining at restaurants like DUO Steak and Seafood and Spago, offering fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
The resort also boasts an extensive art collection and a commitment to Hawaiian culture, visible in its lei-making classes and hula lessons. This resort is ideal for couples seeking a romantic escape, families desiring a luxurious yet fun-filled vacation, and anyone who appreciates personalized service and exquisite surroundings. An insider tip is to take advantage of their complimentary outrigger canoe paddling and snorkeling clinics, providing a unique way to experience the Maui coastline. The resort is famous for its “no resort fee” policy, a rare luxury in Hawaii, making it an even more appealing choice for discerning travelers.
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Ko’a Kea Hotel & Resort at Po’ipu Beach
Nestled on Po’ipu Beach, Ko’a Kea Hotel & Resort offers an intimate, boutique experience, standing out with its focus on tranquility and personalized service. This charming resort is known for its stunning oceanfront pool, complete with a lava rock hot tub and breathtaking views of the Pacific. What makes Ko’a Kea unique is its smaller scale, allowing for a more serene and attentive atmosphere compared to larger resorts. You can expect luxurious rooms, many with ocean vistas, and a renowned spa specializing in traditional Hawaiian treatments.
Guests often spend their days snorkeling directly from the beach, lounging by the pool, or enjoying fresh seafood at Red Salt restaurant. This resort is perfect for couples seeking a romantic, quiet escape, honeymooners, or solo travelers looking for serenity and rejuvenation. Its history as one of Kauai’s first hotels gives it a classic, timeless appeal, while recent renovations ensure modern comfort. Don’t miss the chance to witness the spectacular sunset from the pool deck, often accompanied by live music.
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The Royal Hawaiian
The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort, is an iconic pink palace gracing the shores of Waikiki Beach. What makes this historic resort truly unique is its legendary status as “The Pink Palace of the Pacific,” a symbol of Hawaiian hospitality since 1927. Its Spanish-Moorish architecture and vibrant pink facade are instantly recognizable. Guests can expect a blend of timeless elegance and modern comfort, with lush gardens, a private beach area, and the famous Mai Tai Bar overlooking the ocean.
You can spend your days relaxing under a pink umbrella, learning to surf, or indulging in a spa treatment. Its rich history includes hosting royalty, celebrities, and serving as a R&R spot for servicemen during WWII. This resort is ideal for history enthusiasts, couples seeking a romantic and classic Hawaiian experience, and anyone who appreciates iconic luxury and a prime Waikiki location. Don’t miss their traditional Aha Aina Luau, a truly authentic and entertaining experience right on the property.
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Andaz Maui at Wailea
Andaz Maui at Wailea offers a fresh, contemporary take on luxury, distinguished by its minimalist design, cascading infinity pools, and direct access to Mokapu Beach. This resort breaks away from traditional Hawaiian resort aesthetics, focusing on open-air spaces and a seamless connection with nature. What makes it unique is its emphasis on immersive experiences and a “no resort fee” policy, which is a significant draw. You’ll discover five stunning pools, including three cascading infinity pools, a lagoon pool, and an adults-only pool.
Guests can partake in complimentary outrigger canoe paddling, stand-up paddleboarding, and snorkel gear rentals. Dining options like Ka’ana Kitchen offer farm-to-table excellence. This resort is perfect for design-conscious travelers, active couples, and families who appreciate modern luxury, healthy living, and an authentic, yet refined, Hawaiian experience. Its innovative design and commitment to sustainability truly set it apart.
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Four Seasons Resort Hualalai
Four Seasons Resort Hualalai on the Kona-Kohala Coast of the Big Island is a sanctuary of understated elegance, perfectly integrated into its natural volcanic landscape. What sets this resort apart is its unparalleled commitment to personalized service, the stunning variety of its seven pools, and its unique King’s Pond, a 1.8-million-gallon swimmable aquarium home to over 4,000 tropical fish and a resident spotted eagle ray. You can expect spacious bungalows and villas, world-class golf, and exceptional dining experiences like Ulu Ocean Grill.
The resort actively engages in conservation efforts, including its on-site marine center. This destination is ideal for discerning travelers, families seeking a luxurious and educational experience, and couples desiring ultimate privacy and tranquility. Its design beautifully incorporates local materials and art, reflecting the spirit of Hawaii. An insider tip is to participate in the “Talk Story” sessions with cultural advisors to learn about Hawaiian traditions.
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The Ritz-Carlton Kapalua
The Ritz-Carlton Kapalua on Maui’s northwest coast offers a blend of luxury and cultural immersion, set amidst a sprawling 54-acre sanctuary. What makes this resort unique is its deep respect for Hawaiian traditions and its stunning location overlooking the pristine Honokahua Bay, a sacred site. You’ll find two championship golf courses, a luxurious spa inspired by ancient Hawaiian healing practices, and a multi-tiered pool area. Expect spacious suites, exceptional dining, and a focus on eco-tourism and cultural preservation.
The resort hosts an annual Celebration of the Arts, showcasing Hawaiian culture. This resort is perfect for golf enthusiasts, families seeking a blend of luxury and educational experiences, and travelers who appreciate cultural authenticity alongside modern comforts. Its commitment to the environment and local traditions truly sets it apart. Explore the nearby Kapalua Coastal Trail for breathtaking views and a refreshing walk.
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Montage Kapalua Bay
Montage Kapalua Bay, also on Maui, stands out with its all-suite accommodations, offering expansive living spaces that feel like private residences. This resort is unique for its residential-style luxury, providing fully equipped kitchens and large lanais, perfect for extended stays or families. You’ll discover a stunning multi-tiered pool deck, a world-class spa, and direct access to Kapalua Bay, renowned for its snorkeling and calm waters.
Expect personalized service, a relaxed atmosphere, and gourmet dining at Cane & Canoe. The resort is built on the site of the former Kapalua Bay Hotel, carrying forward a legacy of hospitality. This resort is ideal for families, groups, and couples seeking spacious luxury and the comforts of home combined with resort amenities. The feeling of having your own private oasis with all the resort services at your fingertips is truly what defines the Montage experience.
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Halekulani
Halekulani, meaning “House Befitting Heaven,” is a legendary luxury hotel on Waikiki Beach, renowned for its understated elegance, peerless service, and iconic “House Without A Key” restaurant. What truly makes Halekulani unique is its commitment to refined simplicity and timeless grace, offering a serene escape amidst the bustling energy of Waikiki. You’ll find a stunning orchid-tiled pool, an award-winning spa, and direct oceanfront access.
Expect sophisticated dining, including the exquisite La Mer, Hawaii’s only AAA Five Diamond and Forbes Five-Star restaurant. The hotel has a rich history of hosting discerning travelers and celebrities for decades. This resort is ideal for couples seeking a romantic and elegant getaway, solo travelers desiring tranquility and impeccable service, and anyone who appreciates classic luxury and a quiet, sophisticated atmosphere. Don’t miss the nightly live Hawaiian music and hula at House Without A Key, a quintessential Waikiki experience.
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The Kahala Hotel & Resort
The Kahala Hotel & Resort offers a secluded oasis away from the bustle of Waikiki, known for its private beach, lush gardens, and resident dolphins. What makes this resort unique is its exclusive, residential feel and its famous Dolphin Quest lagoon, where guests can interact with bottlenose dolphins. You’ll discover a tranquil atmosphere, a beautiful beachfront, and exquisite dining options.
Expect spacious rooms and suites, often with ocean or dolphin lagoon views, and personalized service. The resort has a storied history of hosting presidents, royalty, and Hollywood stars seeking privacy. This resort is perfect for families with children who will adore the dolphins, couples seeking a quiet and luxurious retreat, and anyone desiring an escape from the crowds while still being close to Honolulu. Take advantage of their complimentary shuttle to Waikiki for shopping and dining.
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Fairmont Orchid
Fairmont Orchid on the Big Island’s Kohala Coast offers a stunning oceanfront setting with a focus on Hawaiian culture and natural beauty. What makes this resort unique is its white sand beach (rare on the Big Island), a tranquil oceanfront lagoon perfect for swimming, and its commitment to the Hawaiian concept of “Ho’okipa” (hospitality). You’ll discover a 10,000-square-foot oceanfront pool, a unique Spa Without Walls offering treatments in outdoor hale (huts), and a variety of dining options.
Expect lush tropical gardens, cascading waterfalls, and beautiful sunsets. The resort is known for its cultural programs, including lei making, hula, and petroglyph tours. This resort is ideal for families, couples, and golf enthusiasts who appreciate a blend of luxury, natural beauty, and cultural experiences. Its location provides easy access to the Big Island’s diverse landscapes.
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Turtle Bay Resort
Turtle Bay Resort on Oahu’s North Shore offers a unique blend of luxury and authentic Hawaiian adventure, set on 1,300 acres of pristine coastline. What makes this resort truly special is its unparalleled access to five miles of secluded beaches, hiking trails, and world-famous surf breaks. You’ll discover two championship golf courses, horseback riding, surfing lessons, and a vibrant surf culture.
Expect spacious rooms, bungalows, and oceanfront villas, all designed to connect you with the natural beauty of the North Shore. The resort has a rich history tied to surfing and Hawaiian culture, often hosting professional surf competitions. This resort is ideal for active travelers, surf enthusiasts, families seeking adventure, and anyone who wants to experience the wilder, more authentic side of Oahu away from the city bustle. Don’t miss the chance to explore the coastline on horseback or simply relax and watch the surfers.
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Hotel Wailea
Hotel Wailea, Maui, is an intimate, adults-only oasis perched on a hillside with panoramic ocean views, offering a sophisticated and tranquil escape. What makes this resort unique is its exclusive, boutique nature and its commitment to providing an unparalleled romantic experience. As an all-suite property, every guest enjoys spacious accommodations with private lanais. You’ll discover a stunning pool with cabanas, a dedicated beach valet service at Wailea Beach, and exceptional farm-to-table dining at The Restaurant.
Expect personalized service, privacy, and breathtaking sunsets. The hotel’s elevated position ensures stunning views without the beachfront crowds. This resort is perfect for honeymooners, couples celebrating anniversaries, or anyone seeking a quiet, luxurious, and romantic retreat away from the family-centric resorts. Its serene atmosphere and attention to detail are truly exceptional.
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Grand Hyatt Kauai
Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa is a sprawling oceanfront paradise on Kauai’s sunny South Shore, renowned for its elaborate water playground and lush tropical landscaping. What makes this resort unique is its incredible network of pools, lazy rivers, and saltwater lagoons, providing endless fun for all ages. You’ll discover a world-class spa, championship golf, and a variety of dining options, from casual to fine dining.
Expect spacious rooms with Hawaiian-inspired decor, attentive service, and breathtaking views. The resort’s design beautifully integrates with Kauai’s natural beauty, featuring open-air lobbies and abundant flora. This resort is ideal for families with children who will adore the pools, couples seeking a lively and amenity-rich vacation, and anyone looking for a comprehensive resort experience with plenty of activities. Don’t miss the traditional luau, a vibrant celebration of Hawaiian culture.
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Aulani
Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa, is a magical Hawaiian escape on Oahu’s Ko Olina coast, uniquely blending Disney storytelling with authentic Hawaiian culture. What makes this resort truly special is its focus on family fun and cultural immersion, all within a stunning oceanfront setting. You’ll discover the Waikolohe Valley, a lush water playground with a lazy river, waterslides, and private snorkeling lagoon.
Expect character greetings, themed activities, and entertainment that appeals to all ages, alongside a deep respect for Hawaiian traditions. The resort offers spacious rooms, villas, and a variety of dining experiences. This resort is ideal for families with young children or Disney enthusiasts who want a Hawaiian vacation infused with a touch of magic. Its commitment to both entertainment and education about Hawaiian culture makes it a truly unique destination.
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Plan Your Visit
Hawaii truly offers a kaleidoscope of experiences, and its resorts are no exception, each a unique jewel in the Pacific. From the serene, adults-only haven of Hotel Wailea to the family-friendly magic of Aulani, and the timeless elegance of Halekulani, you’ll discover a perfect blend of luxury, culture, and adventure. These resorts are not just places to stay; they are gateways to the vibrant spirit of Aloha, inviting you to immerse yourself in Hawaiian traditions, explore breathtaking landscapes, and create cherished memories.
Whether your budget leans towards a mid-range escape or a high-end splurge, planning your trip during the shoulder seasons can offer a sweet spot for both weather and value. So, pack your bags, embrace the spirit of discovery, and let the islands of Hawaii enchant you. Your unforgettable paradise escape awaits!
