Hawaii’s islands each have their own unique character, topography, and attractions. However, they have one thing in common; the archipelago is home to some of the most beautiful natural landscapes on Earth. If you are planning a first trip to Hawaii or wondering what to do on each Hawaiian island , it can be daunting to know where to start. If you are interested in relaxing by the North Pacific Ocean consider brushing up on your knowledge of Hawaii’s beaches or if you’re into hiking, surfing, or other outdoor activities there are some islands better suited than others for specific sports. Another great place to start with your trip planning is deciding where to stay. This is made a huge amount easier when considering a Hawaii resort. Resorts here offer some of the finest rooms on the islands (many of which are suitable for groups and families), five-star amenities, superb dining, and cultural activities. Here are the 11 top resorts in Hawaii for a vacation of a lifetime.
The Most Luxurious Resorts on the Hawaiian Islands for a Vacation of a Lifetime
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- The best resorts on The Big Island
- The best resorts on Oahu
- The best resorts on Maui
- The best resorts on Kauai
- The best resorts on Lanai
Hawaii resorts on The Big Island
The Big Island of Hawaii is home to some of the most beautiful Airbnbs and luxurious resorts in the world. From the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai to the Mauna Lani, there are plenty of options for those looking for a relaxing getaway. Whether you want a romantic escape or to enjoy Big Island outdoor activities the island provides.
Four Seasons Resort Hualalai
Photo: Expedia
Visitors can expect nothing but the best at Four Seasons Resort Hualalai and have access to all the amenities that come with a Four Seasons-branded hotel. It’s tranquil and over-the-top with a location just as impressive as the long list of facilities and the brand’s iconic five-star service. The resort sits on the Kona-Kohala coast of the island surrounded by white-sand beaches and black-lava landscapes.
The resort is steeped in Hawaiian culture and traditions, which can be seen throughout the property in its art collections and design aesthetic. Suites at The Four Seasons feature bespoke Hawaiian furnishings and elegant artworks in an open-concept living and dining area. There’s also a range of villas that offer luxurious private home-style accommodations with pools, spacious balconies, and terraces. Ideal for getaways with family or friends, these exclusive villas are situated in stunning locations throughout the property.
Price per night: $1,600
Four Seasons Resort Hualalai: 72-100 Ka`upulehu Drive, Kaupulehu, HI 96740
Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection
Photo: Expedia
Mauna Lani Resort is located on the dramatic Kohala Coast. With stunning views of four volcanoes, a coral-fringed beach, and ancient Kalahuipua’a fishponds, this resort is simply breathtaking.
Guests can enjoy cultural activities such as hula dancing and lei making, as well as watersports like snorkeling and kayaking. During the winter months from November to March, Mauna Lani also offers some of the best views of humpback whales in the Maui Channel with the Haleakala volcano as a backdrop.
The resort treats guests to stunning views from its 333 rooms and suites. Its arrow-like shape ensures that almost all of these accommodations have a direct ocean outlook from the private furnished lanai balcony. The décor is calming and bright with refined hardwood, natural fabrics, and textures that capture the essence of Hawaii. Guests can choose from luxury suites ideal for extended family or friends, or opt for rooms located above the adult-only pool for couples or special occasions.
Price per night: $1,500
Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection: 68-1400 Mauna Lani Drive, Waikoloa, HI 96743
Westin Hapuna Beach Resort
Photo: Expedia
The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort sits on one of the busiest white sand swimming beaches on the Kohala Coast. The positioning and layout of the Westin provide convenience but also exclusivity. With easy access to a variety of recreational activities, this resort has an oceanfront location that can’t be beaten.
Guests can enjoy four newly reimagined dining venues, an award-winning 18-hole golf course designed by Arnold Palmer, and two swimming pools — a 6,800-square-foot family-friendly swimming pool, and an adult-exclusive infinity pool overlooking Hapuna Beach. There’s also the brand’s signature WestinWorkout Center and their world-class Hapuna Spa.
Price per night: $980
Westin Hapuna Beach Resort: 62-100 Kaunaoa Drive, Hapuna Beach, HI 96743
Hawaii resorts on Oahu
Oahu is a paradise for active travelers, especially those who enjoy hiking. It is the third-largest of the Hawaiian Islands and home to the largest population in the state. Oahu has all the scenery Hawaii is known for — stunning beaches, tropical views, lush foliage, and volcano-studded landscapes. There are also plenty of superb resorts to choose from, so you can find something that suits your needs.
Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina
This five-star resort is the perfect destination for those looking to experience the natural beauty of Oahu’s wild and rugged western coast. The Four Seasons Oahu offers breathtaking ocean views, access to lagoons, white-sand beaches, and a golf course complete with waterfalls.
Along with the exceptional service, local connections, and experiences are what truly shine. From airport transfers to in-suite dinners, balcony breakfasts, massages, and unlimited laundry service, nothing is off-limits. And with guidance from local experts, guests can learn a variety of activities such as dyeing sarongs, playing the ukulele, and stargazing.
Price per night: $1,200
Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina: 92-1001 Olani Street, Ko’Olina Resort, Kapolei, HI 96707
Turtle Bay Resort
Turtle Bay Resort on Oahu’s North Shore is the perfect destination for those looking for luxury and outdoor adventure. With five miles of beaches, 12 miles of biking and hiking trails, and world-class golf courses, guests can explore the natural beauty of this remote part of the island. Located on a peninsula, the resort offers 408 guestrooms and suites in three wings, as well as 42 oceanfront bungalows with stunning views of the ocean.
Turtle Bay Resort is dedicated to preserving the natural beauty of its 1,300 acres of land. Of this area, 650 acres are permanently allocated for conservation space. The Turtle Bay beaches are home to the critically endangered Hawaiian monk seals and humpback whales and the resort works in alliance with NGOs to preserve their environment.
Price per night: $940
Turtle Bay Resort: 57-091 Kamehameha Highway, Kahuku, HI 96731
Marriott’s Ko Olina Beach Club
Marriott’s villa resort is just steps from the ocean and offers stunning views from its beautifully landscaped, gated community. Guests can enjoy amenities such as three outdoor pools, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and an on-site spa. The resort has a vast range of one, two, and three-bedroom villas with full kitchens, furnished lanais, and plenty of space for dining and entertaining.
Price per night: $907
Marriott’s Ko Olina Beach Club: 92-161 Waipahe Place, Ko’Olina Resort, Kapolei, HI 96707
Hawaii resorts on Maui
Maui is the second-largest of the Hawaiian islands. It is home to many natural splendors including outstanding beaches, volcanoes, and waterfalls. It also has to some of the most luxurious accommodations from boutique hotels to all-inclusive resorts.
The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
The Ritz Carlton in West Maui sits on 54 ocean-view acres. It’s adjacent to a championship golf course and features a stunning three-tiered free-form pool with an impressive view of the Pacific Ocean. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be greeted with top-notch service from the front desk to housekeeping. The staff in the club lounge are particularly friendly and will know you by name in no time.
The property offers easy access to a walking trail through coastal sand dunes, as well as excellent on-property restaurants, fitness classes, acclaimed tennis facilities, cultural history tours, and a spa with Hawaiian herbal treatments and hidden grotto whirlpools.
Price per night: $520
The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua: 1 Ritz Carlton Drive, Kapalua, Lahaina, HI 96761
Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea
Four Seasons Resort Maui is the perfect destination for golfers looking to experience some of the best courses in Hawaii. Located just a five-minute drive from the Gold Course, Emerald Course, and Blue Course, guests can enjoy stunning views of Wailea Beach while playing a round.
The resort exudes an aura of refined class, with its statuesque palms, and three saltwater pools surrounded by bright white cabanas. The adult-only infinity has a swim-up bar and there are nice little extras like complimentary poolside snacks and sun cream. There are 383 luxurious rooms and suites which are some of the largest on the island. Many have stunning ocean views, while all feature a calming neutral pallet with classic navy accents, marble bathrooms with tubs, and separate rain showers.
Price per night: $520
Four Seasons Resort: 3900 Wailea Alanui Drive, Wailea, Wailea, HI 96753
Hawaii resorts on Kauai
The oldest island in the Hawaiian chain, Kauaʻi is home to some of the best hikes in the world. From the Awa’awapuhi trail to Kalalau Trail, there are plenty of things to do on Kaua’i that will take you through some of the most beautiful scenery on Earth. For those who prefer a more leisurely experience, there are many beaches perfect for sunbathing or swimming. The white sand beaches are surrounded by aquamarine skies and brilliant sunsets that make it easy to understand why Kauaʻi is so popular with visitors from all over the world.
Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa
Photo: Expedia
The Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa is on the sunny south shore of Poipu, Kauai. The over-the-top resort has an impressive 50-acre pool system surrounded by lush palm trees, the largest waterslide on the islands, a sprawling spa set amid jungle waterfalls, and nine bar and dining venues.
Guests can enjoy tropically-styled standard rooms with crisp whites, brown and earth tone accents, and plantation-style shutters along breezy open-air corridors. Almost all of the 604 rooms have at least a partial ocean view and are relatively spacious with a sitting area, marble bathrooms with walk-in showers, as well as private lanais with outdoor seating.
Price per night: $901
Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa: 1571 Poipu Road, Poipu, Koloa, HI 96756
Koa Kea Hotel and Resort
Photo: Expedia
Ko’a Kea Resort on Poipu Beach is a luxurious boutique resort in south Kauai. The resort’s name, Ko’a Kea, means “white coral” in Hawaiian, and this theme is reflected throughout the property with crisp whites and bold natural elements. Rooms are spacious and feature luxurious amenities such as private lanais, Nespresso machines, mini-fridges, and marble bathrooms. It has some of the closest rooms to the ocean, with four oceanfront suites that are literally steps from the sea.
Price per night: $722
Koa Kea Hotel and Resort: 1571 Poipu Road, Poipu, Koloa, HI 96756
Hawaii resorts on Lanai
Lanai is the smallest inhabited island in Hawaii. It’s often referred to as Pineapple Island because of its history of pineapple farming. For those looking for a more luxurious experience, Lanai has one of the most exclusive Hawaii resorts. The Four Seasons Resort Lanai provides guests with an unforgettable stay in one of the world’s most beautiful locations. From relaxing spa treatments to fine dining experiences, there are plenty of ways to enjoy your time here.
Four Seasons Resort Lanai
Located on the southeastern coast, this five-star heavyweight luxury resort is just a moment away from some of the most scenic spots on the island. You can relax by one of their lagoon-style pools, explore their lush landscape, or treat yourself to a spa day at Hawanawana Spa. And for an unforgettable meal, there’s cliff-side NOBU LANAI.
With 213 guest rooms, including 45 suites, you’ll be surrounded by botanical gardens, serene koi ponds, and endless views of the Pacific Ocean. The decor celebrates Hawaiian culture with teak wood furnishings, local artwork, and hand-woven rugs.
Price per night: $2,300
Four Seasons Resort Lanai: One Manele Bay Road, P.O. Box 631380, Lanai City, HI 96763
How much does it cost to stay in a resort in Hawaii?
Hawaii is known for its luxurious resorts and stunning beaches, but it can be hard to find a resort that fits your budget. Fortunately, there are many great Hawaii resorts that offer a variety of amenities and prices. Prices vary depending on the season and type of accommodation, but you can typically expect to pay anything between $500 — $3000 per night. For those looking for something more luxurious, some resorts offer packages with additional amenities such as spa services or private beach access for an additional fee.
Does Hawaii have all-inclusive resorts?
Yes, Hawaii has a variety of all-inclusive resorts to choose from. From the luxurious Turtle Bay Resort to the family-friendly packages at Wailea Beach Resort, there are many options for an all-inclusive Hawaiian vacation.
What island is the Disney resort on in Hawaii?
Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, is a beachside resort hotel that opened in 2011 on the leeward coast of O’ahu. 