I visit Hawaii pretty frequently (and used to live there) so I’ve stayed in a lot of different hotels and condos on trips (and staycations) plus visited so many more and done a LOT of research.

Like, a LOT of research. I’m kind of a hotel person.

It’s hard to complain much about any hotel in Hawaii (it’s paradise!), but some hotels definitely make more of an impression than others.

So I’ve rounded up my FAVORITE hotels in Hawaii, plus the ones that are on my wish list.

But first, here are a few things you need to know:

My tastes (and therefore my recommendations) skew high end to luxury. I’m not really a budget traveler. Although I do like to travel hack my way to a lot of stays.
Hotels in Hawaii are pretty $$$ (especially since COVID). So if you’re out of touch with current hotel prices (everywhere really, not just Hawaii), you might be shocked. You’re probably not going to find something beachfront (outside of Waikiki) for under $300. And really, a lot of places start at about double that. You can definitely find places to stay (even right on the beach) for way less, but you’re going to be looking at a condo. I’ve got a ton of recommendations here, but this post focuses on hotels and resorts.

This post may contain some affiliate links, which means I’ll make a little money on anything you choose to purchase. But of course, I only recommend my absolute favorites to you. Thank you for supporting the brands that make HulaLand possible.

My Favorite Hotels in Hawaii (I’ve Stayed at Them All ; )

My Favorite Maui Hotels

Four Seasons Maui

The Four Seasons Maui is the gold standard when it comes to, well…everything.

In Hawaii, nobody does luxury like the Four Seasons, and since Maui is my particular favorite (and Wailea specifically) I am SO partial to the Four Seasons Maui.

The resort has the kind of impressive grandeur mixed with relaxed island vibes that can only be described as barefoot luxury.

The adults only serenity pool is probably the best pool anywhere in Hawaii. I love a good infinity pool, but this one is over the top with the swim up bar and amazing view of Wailea Beach.

The service here is what really sets it apart. I’ve never experienced anything like it in my life.

Read my full review of the Four Seasons here.

You can book the Four Seasons Maui here.

Andaz Maui

The Andaz Maui is Hyatt’s most coveted resort in Hawaii and holds its weight in a resort area stacked with some of Hawaii’s finest luxury resorts.

The resort’s modern aesthetic, laid back aloha vibes, tiered ocean facing infinity pools, and a somewhat secluded spot on one of Maui’s best beaches make the Andaz Maui one of my top picks for a luxe getaway.

The Andaz feels a bit more hidden away than some of the other big resorts in Wailea. And if the beach is important to you, I think the Andaz is on the best beach in Wailea.

The snorkeling is good, it’s not as crowded as others like Wailea Beach, and it’s a really long beach that’s perfect if you like to take walks.

For me, the pool set up is also one of my overall favorites. There are three infinity pools plus a lagoon pool and a separate adults only pool over by the spa. One of the infinity pools even has a hot tub in it.

Read my full review of the Andaz here.

You can book the Andaz here.

Wailea Beach Resort

I’m always on the hunt for the perfect beach resort and Marriott Bonvoy is my hotel loyalty program of choice… so when I find a place that checks both boxes, I am ALL OVER IT.

The Wailea Beach Resort on Maui is one of the most popular Marriott properties in the world right now (evidenced by how many people choose to redeem a good chunk of their loyalty rewards points here), and it’s easy to see why.

Aesthetically, the Wailea Beach Resort has a modern vibe with a welcoming, open air lobby and plenty of public spaces that invite guests take advantage of the beautiful setting.

And there’s something for everyone…some of the island’s best waterslides for the kids…and a truly impressive oceanfront infinity pool for the adults.

I can’t wait to make it back for another stay to check out the newly opened Olakino Wellness Pool Experience (like a spa day at a luxury pool with a view of the ocean!)

Read my full review of the Wailea Beach Resort here.

You can book the Wailea Beach Resort here.

***Want to save major $$$ on your trip to Hawaii? I get asked ALL the time how I’m able to travel so often to Hawaii and stay at really nice resorts. Well, my favorite travel hack is cashing in points to score free airfare and free nights at some of Hawaii’s most high end resorts. Read my full guide on the exact system I use to max out credit card rewards here. Seriously, it’s going to save you soooo much money.

Fairmont Kea Lani

The Fairmont Kea Lani is a classic Hawaii beach resort offering everything you could ever want on vacation, but I think what separates it from a lot of the competition are the rooms.

The Fairmont Kea Lani is Hawaii’s only oceanfront all-suite and villa resort which makes it a perfect option for families or couples who want more room to spread out. And pricewise, it’s usually on the lower end of the surrounding resorts in Wailea. So it’s a great VALUE.

And on top of all of that, they just finished a resort wide renovation in 2023 and the new room interiors are probably…the best on Maui.

Read my full review of the Fairmont Kea Lani here.

You can book the Fairmont Kea Lani here.

Ritz Carlton Kapalua

As one of the greenest and lushest parts of the island, Kapalua has a natural beauty that I think is hard to beat. And the Ritz Carlton has a prime location in this quiet and serene paradise.

The pool area is great with three terraced pools plus a large hot tub and a separate pool that’s great for toddlers, but there always seems to be plenty of chairs around no matter what time of day you show up.

One of the best features of this resort is all of the seating areas in the lobby. While at a lot of resorts, the lobby is just a place you move through while you’re coming and going, the lobby area here is a real gathering place. And with views overlooking the whole resort and ocean, it’s a great place to hide away during the inevitable afternoon rain showers.

My other favorite feature of staying here is the prime access to the Kapalua Coastal Walk. I think this is one of the best hikes/walks on Maui and there’s not a ton of parking to access the trail. But the Ritz Carlton sits at one end of the trail so if you’re a walker, you could do this as a morning walk EVERY MORNING.

Read my full review of the Ritz Carlton Kapalua here.

You can book the Ritz Carlton Kapalua here.

Grand Wailea

The Grand Wailea is probably the most famous resort on Maui (maybe in all of Hawaii) and partly that’s because of its size and “grandeur” and partly because it’s been around so long that generations of families have memories here and really help keep the buzz going.

I’ll be honest, if it’s an adults only trip, the Grand Wailea isn’t on my list. BUT…if you have kids, the Grand Wailea is THE place to stay.

Grand really is the best way to describe this resort. It’s one of those places where your jaw is on the ground as you enter the lobby and walk around the property. The architecture, design, and layout is just over the top.

It’s got everything you could want in a resort, but its strong point is the pool area. It’s practically its own waterpark and it’s an absolute paradise for kids.

You can book the Grand Wailea here.

Maui Hotels on My Wish List

Montage Kapalua: They say if anything compares to the level of luxury at the Four Seasons, it’s the Montage Kapalua. I’ve strolled around the grounds and it looks pretty great. It’s on my list. For when I can pry myself away from Wailea ; )

Hotel Wailea: Hawaii’s only Relais & Chateau property is tucked away in the hills above Wailea. It’s adults only and such a cool little hideaway (their restaurant is one of my favorites on the island), but I haven’t pulled the trigger yet since it’s not on the beach. Soon though!

Westin Maui Resort (Hokupa’a Tower): As part of a huge renovation, the Westin added a new luxury tower that not only offers more upscale rooms, but also exclusive access to amenities like the Lanai (a gathering area with a private pool and lounge). It’s the only thing like it in Ka’anapali (and I do love Ka’anapali) so I definitely want to check it out. It’s just not super high on my list since it’s in the same price range as luxury resorts in Wailea.

Hana Maui Resort: I’ve only ever done Hana as a day trip, but someday I want to spend a few days off the grid at the Hana Maui Resort. I’ve been waiting for the promised “top to bottom” renovation since Hyatt took over though because reviews on the standard level rooms aren’t super stellar.

My Favorite Oahu Hotels

Disney’s Aulani Resort

Disney’s Aulani Resort is a one of a kind vacation experience where the magic of Disney meets the rich culture and breathtaking beauty of the Hawaiian Islands. And really, it’s the perfect blend.

Whether you’re a “Disney person” or not, you can’t help but be impressed with how Disney’s imaginative storytelling and dedication to details mingles with the spirit of aloha and Hawaii’s incredible culture to deliver…basically the perfect vacation destination.

There’s a lot to love about Aulani, but its standout feature is its incredible water complex, the Waikolohe Valley. This oasis is home to swimming pools, whirlpool spas, a lazy river, splash pads and water playgrounds, and thrilling water slides, all designed to mimic the Hawaiian landscape, from its volcanic formations to its lush vegetation. And Rainbow Reef, a snorkeling lagoon filled with native Hawaiian fish, offers guests a safe and accessible glimpse into the underwater world of the islands.

Combine it with a family friendly beach, an endless amount of activities around the resort, and Disney’s famous top notch customer service, and this place is a clear winner.

Read my full review of Disney’s Aulani Resort here.

You can book Disney’s Aulani Resort here.

The Laylow

I love the grand resorts of Waikiki as much as the next girl, but sometimes you don’t need the full resort experience.

The Laylow is definitely my new go to Waikiki hotel. I don’t love paying the big $$$ for the nice hotels on the beach when I’m usually a bit more on the go then when I stay on Maui, Kauai, or even other parts of Oahu, but the Laylow still feels like more of a destination hotel than most budget friendly hotels in Waikiki.

The Laylow is a high end city hotel with the vintage Hawaiiana charm everybody dreams of.

They’ve really leaned hard into the vibe. In some ways, I think of the Laylow as the Royal Hawaiian’s (little) sister property.

It’s big on style, and has an overall “nice” feeling, while staying light on amenities and services and making the perfect base camp.

Read my full review of the Laylow here.

You can book The Laylow here.

Oahu Hotels on My Wish List

Ritz Carlton Turtle Bay: It’s been on my list to stay at Turtle Bay on Oahu’s north shore for years, but when it joined the Ritz Carlton brand earlier this year, it shot to the very top. The location is a gem (resort options outside of Waikiki on Oahu are limited) and it looks soooo nice.

Four Seasons Ko Olina: I always stay next door at Disney’s Aulani Resort, but eventually I want to stay a few days at it’s much more luxurious neighbor.

Royal Hawaiian (Mailani Tower): I LOVE a historic pink hotel and nothing is more iconic than the Royal Hawaiian. The hotel is so dreamy, but it’s on my bucket list to stay in the newer Mailani Tower with its updated rooms and sweeping views of Waikiki and Diamond Head.

Side Note: If you’re looking for a rental car for your trip, I LOVE Discount Hawaii Car Rentals. They’re seriously the only company I ever use. They’ll give you the very best prices, you don’t have to reserve with a credit card or pay until you show up, you can cancel and re-book anytime if you find a better rate, and they usually have a special that adds additional drivers for no fee. It’s a no brainer. Click here to check rates for your trip.

My Favorite Big Island Hotels

Mauna Kea Beach Hotel

Opened in 1965, Laurance Rockefeller’s Mauna Kea Beach Hotel was the first resort development on the Big Island and almost 60 years later it’s still delivering the kind of vintage Hawaiian vibes that are getting hard to find.

Honestly, I’m pretty obsessed with this place. The beach is STUNNING. I think it’s the best hotel beach in Hawaii. Maybe just the best beach in general.

There’s a viewing platform where you can watch the manta rays every night plus one of the best tennis clubs in the world.

The Mauna Kea Beach Hotel is currently undergoing some pretty extensive renovations (expected to last through 2025), but it’s going to be EVEN MORE FABULOUS then.

Read more about the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel here.

You can book the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel here.

Fairmont Orchid

I think the Fairmont resorts in Hawaii sometimes get lost among the dazzling lineup of the competition, but the Fairmont Orchid on the Big Island is a SOLID beach resort.

The Fairmont Orchid is a relaxed five star resort situated on 32 oceanfront acres about 20 miles north of the Kona airport. With plenty of amenities including a pristine pool complex, golf, tennis, a spa, a sandy beach with good snorkeling, resident sea turtles, a handful of restaurants, and numerous cultural activities, it’s possible to be “busy” just taking advantage of everything the resort has to offer.

The Fairmont has everything you could want in a beach resort…plenty of dining, golf, spa, tennis, etc. But it’s often a bit less expensive than other comparable resorts in the area.

I really love the way the pool area is situated here. It’s pretty large for the size of the resort with plenty of chairs (and cabanas and shade loungers) scattered around. The way it sits on the property, it feels wide open to the ocean which is something I really like.

Read more about the Fairmont Orchid here.

You can book the Fairmont Orchid here.

**Just a quick footnote here since it’s sooooo popular….yes, I’ve stayed at the Hilton Waikoloa Village and didn’t love it. I found it to be inconveniently large, pretty outdated, understaffed, and just generally nowhere near as nice as other options in a similar price range.

Big Island Resorts on My Wish List

Mauna Lani Resort: One of the chicest places to stay on the Big Island, this place looks amazing after a top to bottom renovation on an older property.

Four Seasons Hualalai: This is pretty much the ultimate Hawaii luxury beach resort. I’m dying to stay here and the salt water lagoon pool looks INCREDIBLE.

Pacific 19: This cute boutique hotel in downtown Kona looks like a great budget friendly spot to set up basecamp.

SCP Hilo: An eco conscious boutique hotel with the perfect location for exploring the jungle-y side of the island.

Volcano House: My dream is to stay at Volcano House in the National Park when there’s lava in the crater!

My Favorite Kauai Hotels

Grand Hyatt Kauai

The Grand Hyatt Kauai is one of the largest resorts on the island and has everything you could ever want in a mega beach resort. The combination of over the top “grand” architecture, impressive grounds and pools, and activities and offerings everywhere you turn make it one of the best resorts on Kauai for families.

From the minute you pull onto the property, you’re going to be impressed. It’s just one of those kinds of places where you never quite get over the scale. It doesn’t have “Grand” in the name for nothing.

The lobby is a huge open air affair with distant ocean views. So much marble. So many parrots and orchids.

It’s so lush and well manicured, and everywhere you turn there’s a magnificent view.

Kauai Resorts on My Wish List

1 Hotel Hanalei Bay: I stayed at this resort when it was still the St Regis and I can’t wait to return to see the impressive renovations. Everything about this place looks stunning (and kind of dream-like) and I can honestly say that of all the places I’ve stayed in Hawaii, this spot wins hands down as the best setting.

Koa Kea Hotel: I love a small, laid back boutique hotel and this one on Poipu Beach is pretty perfect. I’ve had dinner here and walked around the grounds, and it’s at the top of my list for a place to stay on Kauai’s south side.

P.S. Thanks for sticking around and reading this whole post! If you have ANY questions about planning your trip to Hawaii, you can join my free Facebook group here. I’m there answering questions every day and there are 7500+ other friends who have a ton of Hawaii information to share!

Also, if you want to follow along on my travel adventures in real time, you can follow me on Instagram (@caitylincoln). My post captions are full of travel tips and I have a ton of story highlights and videos with great info. And please share my account with your friends that are headed to Hawaii! Your support really helps me keep this blog running!