15 Top-Rated Resorts in Hawaii

INDONEWTRAVEL.COM - Few US travel destinations can offer the kind of unique island vacation experience found in Hawaii. Whether you're looking for a great family beach holiday or a romantic getaway with your partner, the Aloha State delivers on so many levels. A big draw for visitors to Hawaii are the many luxury hotels and resorts.

Luxury resorts are great choices for families looking for fun activities and kids' programs. And for those seeking a more intimate getaway, adults-only hotels and resorts are available, offering romantic and tranquil experiences.

To help you find the best base for your next tropical vacation, be sure to refer often to our list of the top resorts in Hawaii.

1. Four Seasons Resort Lanai

Four Seasons Resort Lanai

The exquisite 5-star Four Seasons Resort Lanai is a great choice for those seeking an unparalleled luxury beach vacation in Hawaii's Hulopoe Bay area. Included among its many world-class amenities are the Hawanawana Spa, which specializes in bespoke beauty treatments and pampering, along with hairdressing.

There are also two swimming pools, one of which is for adults only and resembles a tropical lagoon setting, with hot tubs and cozy private cabanas that are perfect for couples sunning together. Chilled towels, beverages, sunglass cleaning, and sunscreen are included.

Other amenities include a 24-hour fitness center offering yoga and wellness classes, a choice of nine restaurants, a championship golf course, diving and snorkeling, tennis, and a luxury boutique store.

The accommodations on offer at Four Seasons Resort Lanai are equally impressive. Boasting either garden or ocean views from your private furnished patio or balcony, the elegant one-bedroom units are perfect for couples and come with a deluxe king bed, a separate living area with sofa-bed, and a spacious bathroom with a separate shower and bathtub.

Standard features of these chic and bright units include a refreshment center with a deluxe coffee maker, plenty of closet and storage space, plus a work desk-cum-dining table.

2. Hotel Wailea, Relais & Châteaux, Maui

Hotel Wailea, Relais & Châteaux

One of the top Relais & Châteaux locations in the US – and the only one in Hawaii – Hotel Wailea is a private oasis spread across 15 acres of tropical paradise on Maui. This lovely 5-star resort consists of just 72 luxurious 720-square-foot one-bedroom suites, each designed to resemble a luxurious private beach cabin.

Best of all, each of these chic units offers expansive ocean views from their large decks. Notable features include a separate bedroom, large living area with HDTV, spacious bathroom with a deep soaker bathtub and separate shower, and kitchenettes with high-end appliances.

If you can drag yourself away from your exquisite accommodations, be sure to explore the grounds with their lovely koi pond and gardens overlooking the ocean; if you're lucky, you may even get to enjoy some fun whale watching. The resort's restaurant is popular for its fresh fare using locally produced ingredients, some of which are grown on-site. In-room dining is also available.

There's also an adults-only swimming pool with private cabanas, a hot tub, a fitness center that offers yoga and group classes, electric bike rentals, and weekly canoeing adventures. Perks include complimentary valet parking on-site and at the nearby beach (lounge chairs, umbrellas, towels, and refreshments provided), a local limo , and concierge service.

3. Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, Island of Hawaii

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai

Another highly-rated 5-star Hawaiian property from one of the world's leading luxury hotel brands, Four Seasons Resort Hualalai is one of the best places to visit in Hawaii for couples and families alike. Set overlooking the pristine white-sand beach and crystal-clear waters, this large resort on the Big Island of Hawaii consists of 243 elegant rooms and suites available at a variety of price points.

The most popular options are the well-appointed one-bedroom suites. These elegant accommodations come with their own balconies with table seating, separate sleeping areas, huge 75-inch HDTVs, and large granite bathrooms with deep soaker bathtubs and separate glass showers. For those needing extra room, shoot for one of the uber-luxurious three-bedroom villas. These very luxurious units even come with their own dedicated concierge service.

There are also certainly plenty of fun things to do on-site. Highlights include relaxing around any one of the property's seven swimming pools overlooking the ocean, its five hot tubs, or at the beach. Sun loungers and umbrellas are available as are private cabanas for a fee.

The resort also boasts three excellent restaurants offering everything from casual to fine dining, as well as a business center, concierge services, a fitness center, and full-service spa.

There's also plenty for youngsters to do. Highlights for the younger set include everything from nature programs and activities such as movies to a splash zone.

4. Montage Kapalua Bay, Maui

Montage Kapalua Bay

The 5-star Montage Kapalua is well-known for the quality of its intimate beachfront setting in Maui. Set on 24 acres overlooking pretty Kapalua Bay, the Montage consists of just 56 luxury residential-style units. Popular with larger groups and families, the resort's three-bedroom residences are a real treat.

Notable features include sleeping arrangements for up to eight guests (there's a pullout couch in the spacious living area), full kitchens, as well as large bathrooms with separate bathtubs and showers (plush bathrobes and bath products included), and large furnished patios. One- and two-bedroom variants are available, along with a lovely honeymoon suite.

On-site amenities include three restaurants (in-room dining is available), offering everything from casual to fine-dining experiences, as well as pool-side options. There's also a full-service spa, a spectacular swimming pool with cascading water, and a large sunbathing terrace, plus tennis courts, snorkeling, and boating excursions.

It's also a popular destination for conferences, conventions, and weddings, boasting more than 50,000 square feet of meeting and function space.

5. Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, Maui

Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

The Four Seasons Resort Maui is set directly on beautiful Wailea Beach, one of the top-rated beaches on the island. Boasting world-class amenities and a lush tropical property in which to relax - including 58 private cabanas spread across the resort - it's little wonder this 5-star resort has become a hot spot for those wanting a luxury vacation experience.

On-site amenities include a modern 24-hour fitness center, dining in your choice of three great restaurants (including all-inclusive and B&B packages), a full-service spa, boutique stores, three saltwater pools, three tennis courts, and access to three championship 18-hole golf courses.

As you'd expect from a Four Seasons resort, the rooms are extremely elegant and luxurious. All of them are bright with chic décor throughout and great views over the ocean or gardens. Features of the resort's popular standard hotel rooms include furnished balconies, spacious bathrooms with separate soaker bathtubs and glass showers (including bathrobes and slippers), and plenty of comfortable seating.

6. Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina, Oahu

Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina

The Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina is a great choice of 5-star luxury accommodation for those wanting to enjoy a superlative Hawaiian beach vacation. It's a large resort, consisting of 370 luxury guest rooms and suites, yet manages to feel uncrowded.

In addition to its first-rate dining in any one of its award-winning restaurants, guests can enjoy swimming at the beach or in any one of the resort's large pools. Choices include a family pool and an adults-only pool, along with an additional relaxation and wellness pool adjoining the world-class spa facility. Private cabana rentals are also available.

In addition to enjoying a game of tennis, guests can also enjoy the resort's championship golf course. There's also a marina offering watercraft rentals, shopping, and a business center.

A great choice of room for couples seeking additional space to spread out and relax in, or families with younger children, the junior suites can be upgraded to include ocean views. In addition to king beds (roll-away beds are available upon request), these units come with large bathrooms with stand-alone showers and bathtubs.

If you need even more space, why not book the exquisite penthouse suite? In addition to its huge 800-square-foot balcony with panoramic views, the suite comes with two bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, two living rooms (one is part of the master bedroom), a dining room, and a service kitchen.

7. The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach, Oahu

The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach

Another great option from a leading luxury hotel brand, The Ritz-Carlton Residences Waikiki Beach offers plenty of pampering on the island of Oahu. The crown jewel of this beautiful 5-star resort's many fine amenities has to be its large infinity pool, located on the eighth floor. There's plenty of space to lounge around and sunbathe, or simply enjoy the amazing ocean views.

Other notable amenities are a variety of dining options, including a fine-dining restaurant and a private dining room. There's also a full-service spa and a large well-equipped fitness center.

The rooms are equally luxurious and come in a number of different sizes and configurations. Popular for larger groups are the elegant one- or two-bedroom condo-style residences. These elegant units feature private bedrooms, full kitchens, dining rooms with seating for up to eight guests, as well as spacious bathrooms with separate bathtubs and showers.

They also come with laundry areas, as well as large balconies with comfortable chairs. Smaller hotel-style units are also available (and equally luxurious).

8. Halekulani, Oahu

Halekulani

One of the top-rated 5-star resorts on the lovely island of Oahu, Halekulani offers high-quality amenities and accommodations overlooking the beach in Waikiki. Especially popular for weddings, honeymoons, and romantic couples' getaways, this exquisite resort offers a variety of food options and restaurants, from poolside dining to in-room options to a delicious afternoon tea on the verandah overlooking the ocean.

Other popular features are the outdoor heated swimming pool, a fitness center with a variety of classes, including yoga, and a full-service spa. Guests also have access to a wide variety of fun beach activities, including surfing.

A great room option, if you can afford it, is the 1,185-square-foot Halekulani Suite. This extremely luxurious unit features a foyer and walk-in closet, spacious master bedroom, separate living room, work area, and a large bathroom with soaker tub and separate shower. It also comes with two large and furnished balconies.

A more modest yet equally chic option are the one-bedroom Diamond Head Suites, which can include a second adjoining bedroom if more space is needed.

9. The Kahala Hotel & Resort, Oahu

The Kahala Hotel & Resort

Famous as a favorite Hawaiian getaway for the rich and famous, The Kahala Hotel & Resort is a great choice for a luxury stay on the island of Oahu. And you know you're staying somewhere special the moment you arrive at this 5-star luxury resort and are given a traditional "aloha" greeting from the friendly staff, along with a cool towel.

These perks continue in your room, too, and include complimentary water bottles and twice-daily maid service. If available, be sure to book one of the lovely ocean-view hotel rooms. These bright and chic rooms come with high-quality furnishings, spacious bathrooms with separate showers and bathtubs (slippers and bathrobes included), HDTVs, and large furnished balconies.

The amenities at this elegant 5-star resort include a large 24-hour fitness-center offering state-of-the-art equipment and a variety of classes, along with a hot tub, sauna, and steam room. Also available are a business center, as well as numerous beach activities including surfing and paddleboarding (lessons provided), and dolphin swimming experiences. A full-service spa is also located on the property.

The resort's world-class restaurant is also worth mentioning. This award-winning venue is popular for its use of locally sourced ingredients and regionally inspired dishes, as well as private dining and in-room options.

A shuttle shopping service is available to nearby shopping in Waikiki.

10. Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui

Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui

The elegant Fairmont Kea Lani on Maui is as popular for its many fine amenities as it is for its luxurious accommodations. Among this 5-star hotel's top amenities are the world-class Willow Stream Spa; a 24-hour fitness center offering yoga and wellness classes; and three swimming pools, one of which is dedicated as adults-only (the other two are great for kids and are connected by a 140-foot waterslide).

The hotel also boasts four distinctive restaurants, from casual to fine dining. In-room dining and private dining experiences are also available. Other nice features include kids' programs and beach activities such as kayaking and canoeing.

A popular choice for families are the one-bedroom suites. These spacious units can sleep four guests comfortably and offer a master bedroom with a separate living area, mini-fridge and microwave, two HDTVs, a spacious marble bathroom, and a large furnished balcony with great ocean views.

When more space is needed, consider one of the two- or three-bedroom villas. These sumptuously decorated units come with a full kitchen, separate dining area, two marble bathrooms, and your own furnished courtyard with a barbecue and plunge pool.

11. Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa, Kauai

Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa

Another fine resort overlooking Poipu Beach, the 5-star Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa is a great choice of vacation destination for couples and families alike looking for a great Kauai vacation.

Set amid a beautiful 50-acre tract of tropical paradise adjacent to the beach, this large resort offers no end of fun things to do. Notable on-site amenities include an 18-hole championship golf course, as well as more adventurous activities, including a thrilling ziplining experience, hiking, and biking.

Water sports enthusiasts are also well catered to thanks to the provision of surfing, scuba diving, and kayaking gear rentals and programs. More relaxing fun can be had at the open-air spa, and the resort's restaurants offer a variety of dining options. There's also plenty of meeting and function space, and the beachfront is a particularly popular spot for weddings.

There's plenty of choice when it comes to bedding down for the night, too. The well-appointed accommodations include hotel rooms with either a single king or two queen beds and a good-sized balcony, plus standard features including HDTVs, right up to one- and two-bedroom suites.

Ranging in size from 1,050 to 2,813 square feet, these spacious units come with separate bedrooms, living and dining areas, handy wet bars with mini-fridges and microwaves, plus large furnished balconies.

12. Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii

Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii

Another lovely luxury resort to consider, the 5-star Fairmont Orchid on the Island of Hawaii is set on 32 acres of magnificent tropical scenery overlooking the Kohala Coast. The property is a delight to explore thanks to its lush gardens, pathways, a waterfall, and easy access to a secluded beach and lagoon area.

Also worth doing is spending time at the luxurious spa, which offers a range of treatments, from couples massages to facials. Afterwards, lounge beside the resort's huge 10,000-square-foot swimming pool, hang out at the private beach club, or take in a game of tennis. Other great on-site amenities include a choice of six restaurants, a golf course, a fitness center, and plenty of activities and programs for adults and kids alike.

While a large resort - it has 540 guest rooms and suites - there's certainly plenty of room to spread out. And thanks to the spacious accommodations, you feel like you're somewhere special.

The standard rooms are elegantly appointed and decorated, and come with a set of sliding doors that separate the sleeping area from the main living space with its pullout couch, providing an additional element of privacy. The bathrooms are spacious and come with separate bathtubs and walk-in showers, and a furnished balcony is also provided.

For those with deeper pockets, consider booking a stay in one of the impressive presidential suites. These extremely luxurious units come with a butler's pantry plus dining and living rooms.

13. Wailea Beach Villas, Maui

Wailea Beach Villas

A great location for those looking to familiarize themselves with the island of Maui, the 4-star Wailea Beach Villas: Destination Hawaii Residences offers its guests first-rate accommodations and amenities.

Comprising a number of individually owned condo- and villa-style vacation residences, the accommodations are uniquely decorated, showcasing the unique style and taste of its owner. The quality of each unit is high, and they come with such features as multiple bedrooms (one to five), full kitchens, separate living and dining areas, and private patios.

In addition to hanging out and exploring Wailea Beach, guests can enjoy numerous other fun activities and amenities. Of these, it's the grounds that appeal to many. Consisting of 11 acres of pathways and tropical gardens, with water features such as ponds and waterfalls, the resort's grounds are a wonder to explore.

There's also an adults-only swimming pool with cabanas, as well as a family pool, two hot tubs, plus beach chairs and umbrellas. Be sure to also make use of the beach valet service. Other notable features include a fitness center, billiards room, and business center.

14. Ko'a Kea Hotel & Resort at Poipu Beach, Kauai

Ko'a Kea Hotel & Resort at Poipu Beach

Another excellent luxury offering for those who like the finer things in life, the Ko'a Kea Hotel & Resort at Poipu Beach consists of 121 of some of Kauai's top-rated rooms and suites. The rooms in this 4-star resort are bright and elegantly decorated, with quality furnishings.

A great choice are those with ocean and beach views from your balcony and through your room's large windows, and couples and families will appreciate the one-bedroom oceanfront suites. These luxurious units feature king beds in a separate bedroom area, large bathrooms with separate bathtubs and showers, sitting areas, and furnished balconies.

The facilities available at this elegant resort are equally commendable. Highlights include the full-service spa, fitness center with a variety of free classes, swimming pool and hot tub overlooking the ocean, plus a restaurant offering alfresco and in-room dining. A variety of beach activities are also, including canoeing, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and surfing. Bike rentals are also available.

15. Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa, Oahu

Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa

Nothing shouts "family fun" quite like a Disney vacation. And Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Oahu is certainly no exception. This ocean-front 4-star beach resort features a variety of accommodation sizes from one- to three-bedroom suites and villas. No matter the size of your unit, you're guaranteed the high-level of quality Disney is synonymous with: quality furnishings and beds, upgraded linens and towels, and all of it immaculately presented.

The units are all bright and spacious, especially the larger ones. Choose a two- or three- bedroom villa, for example, and you'll also benefit from a large and fully equipped kitchen, separate living and seating areas, as well as a very handy laundry room. Pull-out couches are standard, but those with babies can request the use of a cot for the duration of their stay.

And you know you're in good hands when it comes to fun things to do at the resort, too. Kids are particularly well catered to, as you'd expect. Youngsters aged three up to 12 can be enrolled in the resort's kids club, which offers fun (and educational) activities such as crafts, art, and games. Character-themed meals and poolside fun is also guaranteed to keep them busy.

And for mom and dad? Make use of the babysitting service (if needed) and enjoy a romantic meal, couples' spa treatment, or time together at the adults-only swimming pool.