20 Best Hawaii Resorts (For All Budgets) 

Grand Hyatt Kauai is one of the best Hawaii resorts
Hawaii Aloha Travel > Blog > 20 Best Hawaii Resorts (For All Budgets) 

One of our favorite things about being Hawaii travel agents is helping visitors choose the best Hawaii resorts for their vacations. There’s no one-size-fits-all hotel, so we have to really listen and understand everyone’s travel visions. Still, we have some top favorites that seem to be real crowd-pleasers. 

Wondering which resort will work best for your vacation plans? Ahead we’re highlighting the best Hawaii Resorts on each island. And best of all, these recommendations come from local experts who know all the best neighborhoods, hotel brands, and recent renovations! 

How to Choose the Best Hawaii Resort

1. Consider Your Vacation Needs

One person’s perfect resort won’t necessarily be the same as yours. Honeymooners who want to stay inside a resort bubble will differ from a large family of adventurers who just need a place to rest their heads at night. 

Word of mouth is excellent for ensuring a Hawaii resort is clean, friendly, and up-to-date. But beyond that, you have to consider your own unique vacation needs. 

Do you want a full kitchen so you can prepare your own meals? Or multiple restaurants so you can dine onsite? A group of kids will love Hawaii hotels with fancy pools and waterslides, but older vacationers may just need a spot to take a quick dip or relax in the sun. 

If you’re having trouble deciding what to prioritize for your Hawaii resort (or need help finding the right spot), you may benefit from the help of local travel agents like us, who can create a custom vacation plan for you!

2. Look for New & Renovated Properties

When we’re helping clients book hotels, we typically steer them toward new or renovated properties. In fact, Aloha Bruce recently went on a full-fledged expedition to inspect Hawaii’s new and renovated hotels, and he discovered that these properties were going beyond cosmetic repairs and were completing full overhauls that included architectural upgrades and sustainability improvements. Pretty cool, right? 

So, if the newest hotels seem too pricey or simply not right for your vacation needs, consider a renovated hotel. Oftentimes they’ll feel like a completely new resort! 

3. Know Your Island

Hawaii is a big state, but you can narrow down your resort search by choosing an island. Oahu is the most popular island for visitors (this is where you’ll find Waikiki, Honolulu, and other resort areas). Maui has many upscale resorts and basic condos, and Kauai is popular among relaxed vacationers. On the Big Island of Hawaii, you’ll find many accommodation options in Kona. 

Is that still overwhelming? If so, a travel agent may be able to help, or you can check out our best Hawaii resort recommendations below to see which island best fits your hotel vision!

The Best Hawaii Resorts 

Today, we’re highlighting the resorts we book most often for our travel clients. These come in various price points and sizes, because we know not every Hawaii visitor has a big budget. Check out our recommendations below to learn more about the best Hawaii resorts!

Best Oahu Resorts

Oahu is the most visited Hawaiian island and has seemingly endless resort options. Many visitors (especially first-timers) want to stay in Waikiki, but there are also different options in upscale Ko Olina and the relaxed North Shore.

Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort

The Hilton Hawaiian Village in Waikiki is one of the most popular resorts in Hawaii

Hilton Hawaiian Village is a sprawling property located right on Waikiki Beach. There are 5 towers filled with hotel rooms and suites. And while it’s a great location near all the action of Waikiki Beach, you won’t have much reason to leave the 22 acres of the resort. 

There are 20 restaurants, 5 pools (some with waterslides), a saltwater lagoon, beachfront access, an entire shopping mall, a luau, a spa, and a Friday night fireworks show. 

Hilton Hawaiian Village is an overall crowd-pleaser, as couples and families tend to have a good time here. It’s a four-star resort that’s on the more expensive end (though there are plenty of pricier options in Waikiki and beyond). 

The Rainbow Tower was recently renovated, and more upgrades will be coming soon throughout the resort. 

Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa

The Waikiki Beach Marriott is another popular four-star resort. Its price point is typically lower than the Hilton Hawaiian Village, likely because it’s a smaller property with less to do, but you can still have a great time here. 

There is an adults-only pool and a family pool (no waterslide). You can also enjoy 5 restaurants, an onsite luau, and beach access. There’s enough to keep families busy between explorations, but you won’t want to spend your entire vacation on the Marriott grounds. 

Sheraton Waikiki Beach Resort

The Waikiki Sheraton is a pricier option that we think is great for honeymooners and couples. It’s recently renovated so that the property feels modern, serene, and relaxed. The infinity edge pool is splendid, and the spa is top-notch. 

Plus, the convenient Waikiki location puts you within walking distance of many shops, restaurants, and sightseeing. 

Kids will also have a great time at the Sheraton, as there is a playground pool with a waterslide along with family-friendly events. 

Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort And Spa

Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa Interior Detail

Kids may be disappointed by the single small pool at the Waikiki Hyatt, but adults will love the plush, comfortable rooms. There are two restaurants onsite, and you’ll be steps away from great Waikiki dining. 

This four-star hotel is excellent for couples or anyone who will spend much of their time out-and-about but still want a sleek resort to relax at. 

‘Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach

The Alohilani has a fantastic central location in Waikiki and a small rooftop pool. The rooms are comfortable, and the interior is chic – perfect for couples who will be busy exploring but want a worry-free stay with an upscale flair. 

Kids will love the lobby’s massive aquarium and the rooftop recreation area, which has batting cages, tennis courts, and lots of space to run around. 

The Twin Fin Hotel

The entire vibe of the Twin Fin is centered around Waikiki surf culture, so it’s lots of fun for older kids, younger couples, and singles. Special packages include surf experiences and water sports rentals. 

There’s an onsite pool and restaurant, but this is definitely the type of Hawaii resort that encourages guests to get out and enjoy the surf and sun that makes an island vacation so unique. 

Best Kauai Resorts

Kauai is a popular choice for honeymooners and couples, but families will have a great time here too. There are lots of great hotel options, including spacious condos, basic rooms, and five-star hotels.

Still, the slower pace and beautiful scenery make this a top choice for all types of travelers, and accommodation options are available at a range of price points. 

Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa

Grand Hyatt Kauai is one of the best Hawaii resorts
Grand Hyatt Kauai is one of the best Hawaii resorts

The Grand Hyatt Kauai has a fantastic reputation – guests love the service, grounds, rooms, and location. After all, you can’t beat the weather and conditions in Poipu, and the Grand Hyatt puts you in the middle of this popular area. 

This is the ultimate family destination—it has multiple pools, a waterslide, a lazy river, and a saltwater lagoon. Adults and couples will love the on-site spa, sprawling golf course, multiple restaurants, and serene grounds. 

This is the spot to book if you want to spend much of your time in the resort bubble, but it’s also convenient to lots of great Kauai activities. 

The Royal Sonesta Kauai Resort Lihue

The Royal Sonesta is in a great location near the airport and the beach, making getting around a breeze. It also gets raving reviews for its service, cleanliness, and gorgeous grounds. 

There’s a large swimming pool, beach access, a free airport shuttle, four restaurants, and a central location for exploring Kauai. This is one of Kauai’s recently renovated resorts and one of the best Hawaii resorts!

Outrigger Kauai Beach Resort

The Outrigger Kauai is an excellent choice for families. Kids will love the pool complex (complete with a waterslide) and direct beach access. Its Lihue location is central for island expiration, and there are good dining options onsite. 

Some rooms at the Outrigger Kauai Beach Resort have been refreshed, but the property is awaiting a more extensive renovation. 

The ISO Kauai

The ISO is a simple yet comfortable boutique hotel on Kauai’s eastern coast. It has a small pool, a nice restaurant on site, and a spacious open lawn. It’s great for travelers on a moderate budget who will spend much of their time exploring the island. 

Kiahuna Plantation Resort Kauai by OUTRIGGER

Outrigger Kiahuna Plantation Garden

Kiahuna Plantation offers condo-style accommodations with lots of space and a full kitchen. This is great if you’re traveling with a family and want to do your own cooking. Plus, its great location in Poipu means you’ll be close to great beaches and activities. 

The resort itself doesn’t have many amenities, but guests get complimentary access to Poipu Beach Athletic Club, which has a pool with a waterslide and tennis courts. 

Best Maui Resorts

Maui has several sprawling, 5-star resorts, but we tend to book more moderate hotels and spacious condos. These options are great for families, couples, groups, and solo travelers who will spend a lot of time exploring the island. 

Hyatt Regency Maui Resort And Spa

The Hyatt Regency is a large resort in Kaanapali with comfortable rooms and gorgeous grounds. We love the winding garden pathways, beach access, and convenience to West Maui’s shopping, dining, and sightseeing. 

The pool is huge and has a waterslide (a big plus for kids!). There is also a spa, a penguin habitat, a range of dining options, and a luau. 

Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows

The Royal Lahaina Resort is another fantastic option in Kaanapali if you want a polished and comfortable stay. The oceanfront hotel has multiple pools, onsite dining, tennis courts, a luau, and a cultural program. This Hawaii resort works well for families, couples, and solo travelers who want a nice place to relax without the costs that come with more upscale resorts. 

Kaanapali Shores

Kaanapali Shores offers a simple stay right on the beach in Kaanapali. The grounds are lovely, and there are multiple pools that families will love. Some rooms may feel dated, and you’ll be on the far end of Kaanapali, away from Black Rock and Whalers Village

This is our recommendation for anyone who needs a relaxing, no-frills stay during a busy Maui vacation. 

Aston Maui Hill Resort

Aston Maui HIll - one of the best Hawaii condo-style resorts

We love Aston Maui Hill because it offers a lot of space for families who want to feel more “at home” during their Hawaii trip. These south Kihei condos feature full kitchens and multiple rooms to spread out – they’re perfect for families, large groups, and retirees staying for a longer visit. 

There’s one pool on the property and lots of lawn space for little ones to run around. The big con about Maui Hill is that it isn’t by the beach, so you’ll need to drive to access the ocean. But you have plenty of nearby beaches to choose from, whether you opt for the ones in pristine Wailea or bustling Kihei. 

Kamaole Sands

Kamaole Sands is another Kihei condo resort that’s perfect for Hawaii family reunions, extended stays, and family vacations. Enjoy a homey atmosphere with full kitchens and lots of space, but also take advantage of their onsite pool (plus a kids wading pool), well-maintained grounds, and convenience to the beach. 

Best Big Island Resorts

Many people who visit the Big Island of Hawaii are drawn to the relaxed atmosphere, endless natural beauty, and world-famous sites. You’ll likely want to stay in Kona for the best resort options, but plan to spend lots of time traveling around exploring the island. You’ll venture to Hilo, Volcanoes National Park, and take some of the best road trips you’ll find in all of Hawaii. 

Royal Kona Resort

gallery royal kona resort with lagoon 6328f5b4b09fb optimized

The Royal Kona Resort offers a lot for traveling families and couples. You’ll be right by the ocean and within walking distance of Kailua-Kona’s shopping and dining. Onsite, you’ll enjoy onsite dining, a luau, a private saltwater lagoon, and a pool. 

Be aware that the pool closes at sunset (around 7 or 8 p.m., depending on the time of year). This is a plus for vacationers who want a little more quiet, but it may dampen the spirits of families who like to splash around after a day of sightseeing.

The Royal Kona’s rooms are bigger than average, which helps set it apart from the other best Hawaii Island resorts.

Hilton Waikoloa Village

Waikoloa Village has long been a go-to destination for anyone wanting to experience Hawaii’s breathtaking scenery. Waikoloa is a great resort area near Kona, and the resort sits on 63 acres right by the ocean. 

The property boasts multiple pools, golf courses, tennis courts, a dolphin encounter, and a lagoon with watersports. Several restaurants, cafes, and markets help keep you fed during your stay, and an onsite tram will take you around the property. 

This great Hawaii resort is in a convenient location on the Big Island, but you can also spend much of your vacation time on property enjoying its many activities and amenities.

Courtyard King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel

King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel is in the heart of Kailua-Kona, right by the beach and Kamakahonu National Historic Landmark. There’s a pool onsite, and you’ll be steps away from watersport rentals and excursions. This is a great spot for families and couples who want a hotel that feels quintessentially Hawaiian without the cost of elaborate resort amenities. 

Royal Sea Cliff Kona by Outrigger

The Royal Sea Cliff is one of our top choices when anyone is looking for a spacious condo-style stay on the Big Island. Enjoy full kitchens and spacious balconies that overlook the cliffside setting. The property has a pool and serene courtyards. 

You could walk to the beach and nearby restaurants, but driving may be more comfortable if you have a family (and beach gear) in tow. 

Booking the Best Hawaii Resorts

Whether you want a vast Big Island property, a high-rise Waikiki resort, or a homey Maui condo, there are excellent accommodation options throughout Hawaii. 

Of course, even with our handy guide, it can be tough to decide which Hawaii resort will be best for you. That’s what we’re here for! Contact Hawaii Aloha Travel today for help choosing and booking the right place for your vacation. 

After all, your trip to Hawaii should be as unique and fun as you are, and our customized advice will help ensure it’s perfectly planned!

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