Contact a luxury hotel specialist at 1 877 999 0680, chat below or email us

Hotel Spotlights

Choose Your Own Hawaiian Island

by Eva Zhu and Joy Pecknold

As far as warm-weather destinations go, Hawaii, with its soaring mountains, lush valleys, stunning beaches and legendary surf spots, always tops the list. Oprah, Pierce Brosnan and The Obamas all love the Aloha State so much they own homes on Māui, Kaua’i and O’ahu respectively. Whether you’re looking to spend time with family, spark romance or go on an adventure, there’s a Hawaiian island just right for you. Read on to choose the best island in Hawaii for your next escape.

O’AHU

Moana Surfrider hotel exterior

Home to the state’s capital, Honolulu, O’ahu is one of the most visited islands in Hawaii. Stay here for the world-class shopping and restaurants coupled with slower days on the beach. Right on Waikīkī Beach, the stately Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort and Spa has stood since 1901, earning it the title “First Lady of Waikīkī.” Sunbathe by the beachfront pool, dine al fresco at the Beachhouse and take a treatment at awarding-winning Moana Lani Spa, the only oceanfront spa in Waikīkī.

HAWAI’I (BIG ISLAND)

Fairmont Orchid Hawaii hotel pool aerial Fairmont Orchid Hawaii hotel beach dining

You can spend days or weeks exploring the island of Hawai’i, the largest in the archipelago. The Big Island spans 11 climate zones with a diverse geography ranging from beaches in Kailua-Kona to volcanic peaks in Hilo. Start at the Fairmont Orchid Hawaii on the Kohala Coast. Sprawled across 32 acres and surrounded by tropical gardens, waterfalls and a white sand beach, this resort has lots to offer—including sunrise canoe voyages and the Spa Without Walls.

KAUA’I

Ko’a Kea Hotel and Resort as seen from offshore

Kaua’i is known as the Garden Isle for its especially lush flora, emerald mountains and tall waterfalls. Reachable by driving through a tunnel of trees, Kaua’i’s South Shore is the sunniest part of the island. It’s dotted with world-class golf, quaint old towns and painting-like scenery. Located on Po’ipu Beach and boasting Kaua’i’s closest rooms to the water, the intimate Ko’a Kea Hotel & Resort is perfect for a tranquil escape or romantic getaway. Take in the sound of lapping waves from your balcony, sip cocktails by the pool and enjoy warm sands at your doorstep.

MÃUI

Hyatt Regency Maui pool view

West Māui is the island’s original resort region, guaranteeing a vacation with plenty to do. Choose the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa (shown left) on Kana’apali Beach. This family-friendly escape spanning 40 acres features a long list of activities, including a traditional lūʻau, several pools complete with a tube slide, and live-in penguins to feed. Off resort, don’t miss historic Lāhainā; a former whaling village, this charming town of boutiques and galleries is the perfect day trip.

South Māui is the warmer, drier side of the island, which translates to lazy days in the sun and a laid-back lifestyle. Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort (shown right) on Mõkapu Beach embodies this island spirit. The residential-style rooms here include villas equipped with private plunge pools, where you can make yourself at home and truly kick back. If that isn’t enough, there’s also farm-to-table fare, a luxury lūʻau experience and five pools lined with cabanas for lounging around.

LÃNA‘I

Four Seasons Resort Lanai lounge view of ocean and palm trees Four Seasons Resort Lanai

Lānaʻi is Hawaii’s smallest inhabited island and was once home to the largest pineapple plantation. This untouched island offers off-the-beaten-path adventures such as four-wheel drives through the Garden of the Gods’ red rock terrain, horseback rides through forested hills and scuba dives to the famous Lanai Cathedrals’ lava caverns. Relax at the Four Seasons Resort Lana‘i on the pristine coast, where you can find lagoon-style pools and dine cliffside at Nobu Lana‘i.