The Westin Resort Princeville (Shutterstock)

There’s something about Kauaʻi that stays with you long after you leave. Maybe it’s the misty cliffs of the Nā Pali Coast, where waterfalls tumble into the sea. Or the way roosters strut through beach parks like they own the place. Perhaps it’s the deep green of the taro fields in Hanalei or the hush of a rainforest trail after the rain.

Kauaʻi is quieter than its sister islands, slower too. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to soak in that aloha magic on Kaua’i again, where you stay can shape your whole experience. The best hotels in Kauaʻi each offer a different window into the island’s heart.

And that’s exactly the point. Here are our recommendations for a memorable island retreat.

Hanalei Bay Resort in Kauai (Shutterstock)

Not to be confused with the Big Island’s volcano, Kīlauea town on Kauaʻi’s North Shore is small, sweet, and full of aloha. The Kīlauea Lodge offers a cozy alternative to coastal resorts which makes it one of the best Kauai hotels. This charming inn feels like a cross between a country bed-and-breakfast and a rainforest retreat. The rooms are simple yet warm with lush tropical gardens that enhance the ambiance, and the on-site restaurant serves fresh, hearty meals.

You’re near the Kīlauea Point National Wildlife Refuge, a favorite spot for seabird watching. And the beaches and trails of the North Shore are just a short drive away.

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Resort Hotel on Shipwreck Beach, Kauai (Shutterstock)

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Discover the beauty of the North Shore at  The Ritz-Carlton Oʻahu, Turtle Bay 

Nestled on Oʻahu’s fabled North Shore, The Ritz-Carlton Oʻahu, Turtle Bay (formerly Turtle Bay Resort) spans roughly 1,300 acres of coastline and tropical landscape. Every guestroom and suite offers sweeping ocean views, and the property includes 42 private ocean bungalows for an added touch of luxury. The resort features multiple pools, including a family pool, an adults-only infinity pool, and a tranquil pool reserved for bungalow guests. Guests can unwind at the Nalu Spa, dine at restaurants like Alaia featuring locally sourced ingredients, or grab casual bites at one of several beachside cafés.

Adventure and family-friendly fun are central to the experience — from horseback rides along coastal trails and surf lessons to snorkeling, paddleboarding, and guided hikes through scenic terrain. The resort’s children’s programs offer age-appropriate adventures and cultural activities like lei-making, hula, and ukulele lessons. Wellness, Hawaiian culture, and connection to the land shape every stay, blending elevated comfort with the laid-back spirit of the North Shore. Since its rebranding to The Ritz-Carlton in 2024, the property has refreshed its amenities and dining venues while staying true to its deep local roots.

Take a ride on Waikiki’s longest slide at the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort

With six pools and Waikiki Beach just a walk away, Hilton Hawaiian Village is a go-to spot for families who love to play in the sun and surf. The Paradise Pool, at 5,000 square feet, features the resort’s signature waterslide — the longest in Waikiki. Nearby, the Super Pool (10,000 square feet along the beachfront) includes a tiered keiki pool for younger children. Camp Penguin invites kids ages 5 to 12 to join half- or full-day programs filled with fun and educational excursions to attractions such as the Honolulu Zoo, Waikiki Aquarium, Bishop Museum, and the Children’s Discovery Center. Daily activities at the resort often include Hawaiian word games, wildlife spotting, feeding koi, scavenger hunts, lei making, and more. And each week the resort comes alive with kid-friendly perks: sunset movie nights (Wednesdays & Saturdays), Friday fireworks over the beach, hula and ukulele lessons, crafts and games, and ocean adventures like surfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Hilton Hawaiian Village is also known for its on-site wildlife — you’ll find parrots, turtles, and yes, penguins roaming the grounds.

Four Seasons Resort Oahu takes keiki on a memorable experience at Camp Kohola

On Oʻahu’s west side, where sunsets steal the show, families at the Four Seasons Resort Oʻahu can enroll young guests (ages 5 to 12) in Camp Kohola at the Hideaway — a complimentary, supervised program that guides children through themed experiences across the lush resort grounds. At the Camp Kohola center, kids can dive into creative fun in the Creativity Zone, hang out in the games room, or relax in the media lounge. Meanwhile, parents and families can enjoy the Family Pool perched on the edge of the beach, offering wide open space to splash and soak up sweeping ocean views.

One of the resort’s standout offerings is its glamping experience — a curated overnight stay for kids under the stars in stylish tents. The evening includes Hawaiian storytelling, stargazing, movies, games, dinner, and a round of s’mores. Daily resort amenities for all ages include complimentary snorkel gear, stand-up paddleboards, and hula lessons. The resort also pays attention to little details: expect child-sized bathrobes, complimentary children’s toiletries, and dedicated keiki menus to round out the stay.

Splash around in one of the kid-friendliest pools at the Sheraton Waikiki

Make a splash at Sheraton Waikīkī’s Helumoa Playground — one of Waikīkī’s most kid-friendly pool complexes. The Helumoa area features two freshwater family pools, a dramatic 15-foot high, 70-foot long waterslide, interactive fountains, whirlpools, and chaise lounges set in the water — all framed by tropical landscaping and beachfront views. There’s also a pool hut where guests can borrow toys and floatation devices, plus scenic views of Waikīkī Beach.

For childcare, Poppins Keiki Hawaii operates a licensed facility right at the resort (serving ages 3 months to 12 years), offering hourly drop-off care, kids’ programs, and fun Hawaiʻi-inspired activities. Kids can also participate in cultural classes and ocean sports arranged by the resort, including hula, ukulele, lei making, bodyboarding, and more.

Swim with the dolphins at The Kahala Hotel & Resort

Just a short 10-minute drive from Waikīkī, The Kahala is the only resort on Oʻahu offering guests the chance to interact with dolphins through Dolphin Quest in its private ocean-water lagoon. Families (ages 5 and up) can join a dolphin encounter that includes hands-on moments with dolphins in shallow and deeper waters, under the guidance of trainers who also teach about marine life and conservation. Alongside this experience, the resort’s Keiki Club offers supervised half- and full-day programs where children can explore ocean science, Hawaiian culture, crafts, and more. The lagoon is also home to sea turtles, stingrays, and colorful reef fish, and the resort provides a family-friendly backdrop for learning, play, and unforgettable memories.

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Searching for the perfect romantic hotel in Honolulu? Well, there’s the iconic “Pink Palace of the Pacific” (The Royal Hawaiian) and the equally iconic “First Lady of Waikiki” (Moana Surfrider), both beautiful and grand in their own right. Or, there’s the Halekulani and The Modern, both known for their romantic ambiance. But what if you’re looking for something a little more laid back and, well, let’s be honest, less expensive?

Here are some suggestions for reasonably priced, romantic boutique hotels in Honolulu.  Prices often dip below $200 per night, but each hotel maintains a repertoire of upscale amenities to keep you and your someone special feeling, well, special. Check out the list below.

1.  Shoreline Hotel Waikiki

Think island-chic. The Shoreline Hotel Waikiki is a modern boutique hotel with a focus on simple, island-chic. With everything you need and nothing you don’t, you and your love can truly escape to your new, “island home away from home.”

Why it’s romantic: Shoreline Hotel Waikiki caters to the senses, be it the rejuvenating “Essential Oils” Lobby Bar, fresh flavors of Heavenly Island Lifestyle restaurant, or the sumptuous textures of high-grade linens.

What not to miss: Don’t miss the “Forget the Surf Package,” a chauffeured foodie tour of Honolulu. This adventure takes the two of you through Chinatown, home to Honolulu’s exploding culinary scene, as well as an authentic Japanese teahouse complete with an ancient tea ceremony.

Special Offers: Shoreline Hotel Waikiki offers a “Book Direct & Save” promo where you can save 15%.

2.  Hotel Renew

Sexy, chic, and totally contemporary, Hotel Renew is another modern boutique hotel in Waikiki. Guests are greeted with a cold, scented towel upon arrival and encouraged to unwind each day at Lounge Renew. Happy hour starts at 5:30 p.m. daily with handcrafted cocktails and good conversation.

Why it’s romantic: The lounge-like atmosphere along with bold red and black designs evoke passion and fantasy.

What not to miss: Don’t miss the chance to consult with Hotel Renew’s very own aroma concierge to customize your room scent.

3.  The New Otani Kaimana Beach Hotel

Come see the quieter side of Waikiki. The New Otani Kaimana Beach Hotel literally touches the sands of Kaimana Beach, on the coveted eastern end of Waikiki. Private lanais with panoramic views of Waikiki’s azure waters are sure to enchant.

Why it’s romantic: Along with such a superb location, guests at The New Otani Kaimana Beach Hotel are also spoiled with romantic dining options. Enjoy brunch at award-winning Hau Tree Lanai where the eggs Benedict are as famous as the iconic hau tree. Indulge in an intimate, sunset dinner at Miyako where you can tuck away in your own private cabana and enjoy the craftsmanship and nuances of authentic Japanese food.

What not to miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to book an executive suite for the best experience, including full views of Waikiki from your bathtub!

4.  Paradise Bay Resort

Okay, so Paradise Bay Resort is not really located in Honolulu. However, this tropical oasis of a boutique hotel is really something quite special and worth noting. Paradise Bay Resort is the only hotel on Oʻahu’s lush eastside. It is located in an area called Kahaluʻu and overlooks stunning Kāneʻohe Bay.

Why it’s romantic: The setting is tropical. The feeling is intimate. And the accommodations, in fine wood finishing and granite, are quite exquisite.

What not to miss: Don’t miss the Saturday boat excursions out to the Kāneʻohe sandbar. You’ll feel like you’ve been whisked away to a mystical water world. This might just be the highlight of your trip.

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As stars begin to poke through the sky, you walk past rows of tiki torches before reaching in your pocket, grabbing a key and waltzing right into your room.

That’s the dreamy, evening reality at beachfront hotels on Maui, where your room is just steps from golden sands and fiery sunsets each night. There’s an air of luxury, convenience and comfort to staying right on the beach, although with so many Maui beachfront hotels, trying to choose the best option can sometimes seem overwhelming.

Kaanapali and Wailea are Hot Spots for Maui Beachfront Hotels

If you’re researching Maui’s best beachfront hotels, the resort scene is centered on two main spots: Kā‘anapali and Wailea. About 45 minutes apart by car, these visitor enclaves are not only home to lavish, oceanfront resorts but are steps from golden stretches of sand that have made Maui world famous.

Wailea Resort is Home to Luxury Beachfront Hotels

Wailea Resort, in South Maui, boasts four different popular, white sand beaches that are connected by a coastal path. The furthest south is Polo Beach, home to The Fairmont Kea Lani, which twists toward the sky with swirling white spires pulled straight from an Arabian fairytale. Every room at the Kea Lani is actually a miniature suite, providing a spacious sense of comfort along with the oceanfront setting. Next up is The Four Seasons Wailea and famous Wailea Beach, which was named the #1 beach in America in 1999. Also fronting Wailea Beach is the Grand Wailea Resort, where you can swim in Maui’s best swimming pool and relax in Hawaiʻi’s largest spa.

The next beach north — Ulua Beach — is perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving and is home to the Wailea Beach Resort Marriott and the exclusive Wailea Beach Villas. The Andaz Maui, on Mokapu Beach, has a three-tiered infinity pool with popular bars and a sweeping view of the sunset and is where the luxurious Wailea Resort officially comes to an end.

Kihei Boasts Beautiful Beaches and Beachfront Condos

If you drive north from Wailea resort up into neighboring Kīhei, the development changes from high-end resorts to rows of beachfront condos. The Mana Kai Maui, along Keawakapu Beach, is only a ten-minute walk away from the start of the Wailea beach path, and Hale Pau Hana is conveniently located between Kam I and Kam II beaches. While condos don’t have the same sense of glamor as the glitzy Wailea resorts, they’re also within walking distance of restaurants and shops that are a fraction of the cost of Wailea.

There are also beachfront condos in North Kīhei, though the beaches here aren’t as nice for snorkeling and the afternoons can be windy. That said, the morning hours are usually spectacular, and some condos — like The Maui Sunset — are set on beachfront Waipuʻilani Park where tennis courts and a large grassy lawn face out toward the sunset each night. Menehune Shores is an oceanfront condo that’s steps from Kalepolepopo Beach Park and features an ancient Hawaiian fishpond that’s perfect for families with young children. To stay at a Maui beachfront hotel on the island’s longest beach, there are numerous options along Sugar Beach, which at five miles long isn’t great for snorkeling (and afternoons can be windy) but is perfect for taking morning strolls and watching the sunset each night. Options include Kohea Kai Resort Maui at the southern end of the strip, to Sugar Beach Resort in the middle of the beach and Ma‘alaea up north.

There are Only Three Beachfront Options in Lahaina

If you’d prefer to be closer to Kā‘anapali and Lahaina’s shopping and dining, many of Maui’s best beachfront hotels are located in West Maui.

Despite Lahaina’s popularity, the only real options for beachfront hotels are Lahaina Shores at the southern end of town, the Puamana vacation rentals and the Pu‘unoa Beach Estates on small but popular “Baby Beach.” All are within walking distance of bustling Front Street and are set on relaxing beaches, but none offer any resort-like amenities or snorkeling right from shore.

Beachfront Hotels Range From Modern to Authentic on Kaanapali Beach

For that you’ll need to head ten minutes north to famous Kā‘anapali Beach, which was named the #1 beach in America in 2003. Whether it’s snorkeling, scuba diving, jet skiing, parasailing, whale watching, surfing or beach volleyball, you can find it happening along Kā‘anapali Beach, in addition to restaurants and shops.

On the southern end of the beach is the Hyatt, which is popular with families and groups. On the northern end, the Sheraton Maui fronts Pu‘u Keka‘a — also known as “Black Rock” — which is the site of some of Maui’s best snorkeling. Other resorts on Kā‘anapali Beach are the spacious condos at Kā‘anapali Ali‘i, the Marriott’s Maui Ocean Club, as well as The Westin Maui, The Whaler and Kā‘anapali Beach Hotel. Whereas the Hyatt and Westin have multiple waterslides and modern, poolside bars, Kā‘anapali Beach Hotel is a bit more authentic (and lower-priced), where the focus is on fusing a laidback vacation with traditional Hawaiian culture.

Kahekili Beach is the Site of a Few Hidden Gems

Though most of the action in Kā‘anapali is centered around Kā‘anapali Beach, a growing number of resorts now line the next beach further north. Known as Kahekili Beach (or “Airport Beach” to locals), here’s where you’ll find the Royal Lahaina with its nightly oceanfront lūʻau, and the Westin Kā‘anapali Ocean Villas as well as Honua Kai Resort.

Napili Bay is an Enclave of Beachfront Condos and Resorts

Up on the island’s northwestern tip, Napili Bay is another enclave of oceanfront condos and resorts, with the Napili Kai Beach Resort being one of the best options for visiting families and groups. The snorkeling at Napili Bay can be excellent, and neighboring Kapalua Bay was named the #1 beach in America 1991. In winter the surf can get very large, so the best snorkeling and swimming here are from late spring through summer.

Luxury Defines Kapalua’s Beachfront Resort

Finally, some of the best beachfront hotels in Maui are in Kapalua Resort — a pine-lined sanctuary of golf courses and sand on the island’s northwestern coast. The Montage Kapalua Bay is an ultra-luxurious oceanfront resort with one of the island’s best spas, while The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua is a five-minute walk from D.T. Fleming Beach, which was named the #1 beach in America in 2006.

How to Decide Where to Stay on Maui

With so many different options out there, how do you choose which beachfront resort is best for your trip to Maui?

Budget, of course, is usually a factor, and the best deals are usually at condos in Kīhei, Honokowai and Napili. Proximity to activities is also important, and if you want to be able to paddleboard or snorkel by just walking out of your room, resorts in Wailea and Kā‘anapali are often priced higher but carry the convenience of activities right out your front door. For a happy medium between the two, consider condos on Napili Bay and condos in Kīhei between Keawakapu Beach and Kamaole I.

A Note About the Maui Beach Hotel

As a word of caution, there’s a hotel on Maui called the Maui Beach Hotel that’s technically right on the beach — but it’s located inside of Kahului Harbor in an industrial setting that doesn’t offer any snorkeling, activities, or swimming. It is, however, just five minutes away from Kahului Airport, and is an affordable Maui beachfront hotel for travelers who don’t need any amenities and are visiting the island on a budget.

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Known as Hawaii’s Garden Isle, Kauai is definitely in full-bloom when it comes to gorgeous and budget friendly accommodation options. Listed below are our top picks for Kauai best value hotels, each with 3-5 star ratings, and offering affordable rooms, with amenities included, at less than $200/night.

Hanalei Colony Resort

Heaven on earth takes on a new meaning at Hanalei Colony Resort, located just minutes from the charming small town it’s named after and situated in Haʻena on Kauai’s lush north shore. Unlike the posh and more centralized resorts, Hanalei Colony Resort offers a true escape away from it all, featuring suites with sweeping ocean views or mountain views, private patios, wi-fi, and large picture windows. Suites here also encourage guests to unplug, and do not have televisions, stereos or phones.

Kauai Beach Resort

Step into tranquility at Kauai Beach Resort, a 25-acre oasis located on a stunning, white sand beach. Minutes from Lihue Airport, getting here is convenient, and staying here is sheer bliss. Enjoy sweeping views from your private balcony, frolic in the resort’s four swimming pools, and feast among its four onsite dining options.

Courtyard by Marriott at Coconut Beach

Courtyard by Marriott at Coconut Beach brings the best of Kauai to greet each guest, featuring a beautiful beach locale, and offering the highest level of customer service and amenities, including high-speed internet, refrigerators, and private lanais in each of its suites. An onsite spa is also close at hand to soothe and heal you.

Kauai Coast Resort at Beachboy

Picture yourself beneath swaying palm trees and among endless plumeria blossoms on Kauai’s famed Coconut Coast, for that is what you will find at Kauai Coast Resort at the Beachboy. Priding itself on helping its guests get back to nature, and really unplug, the resort rooms do not have televisions or phones (wi-fi is included however), and instead offer guests lovely private lanais, full-service spa, an onsite Hukilau Lanai restaurant, and oceanfront surroundings sure to wipe away every worry.

Aston Islander on the Beach

Aston Islander on the Beach offers visitors a cozy and intimate Kauai experience, featuring charming plantation-style decor that harkens back to Hawaii’s earlier days. Enjoy your stay in any of its lovely guest rooms, take a swim in the sparkling pool, and make some magical island memories at this beautiful beachfront resort.

Castle Mokihana

Cure whatever ails you at Castle Mokihana, an oceanfront resort property located on Kauai’s eastern shore, and showcasing lovely studios with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean (again, don’t expect TVs here either, but rather take in the tropical beauty of this retreat). Just a few minutes from charming Kapaa town, with its various shopping and dining options, Castle Mokihana offers its guests the best of both worlds with top value and ultimate convenience.

Banyan Harbor

Budget-friendly and boasting all the necessary amenities one would want, Banyan Harbor Resort is perched upon Lihue harbor, and offers its guests units featuring 2 bedrooms. The resort has a sparkling onsite pool, and is also just a short stroll from Kalapaki Beach, as well as nearby Anchor Cove Mall.

Makai Club Resort

Makai Club Resort whisks its guests away to paradise, offering a heavenly hillside locale and world-class golfing at its Makai Golf Course. Nestled on Kauai’s famed north shore, this resort offers the golf enthusiast a true dream come true.

Whichever of these eight hotels you choose, take comfort in knowing that you have found the absolute best value for your money as you make your magical Kauai memories.

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Great news for visitors vacationing in the Valley Isle, making magical memories in Maui doesn’t have to mean breaking the bank. As well as boasting beautiful, stunning scenery, this Hawaii enclave also offers accommodations that won’t leave you with sticker shock. Listed below are our top picks for Maui best value hotels, each with 3-5 star ratings, and offering affordable rooms, with amenities included, at less than $200/night.

Kaanapali Beach Hotel

Often called “Hawaii’s Most Hawaiian Hotel,” Kaanapali Beach Hotel boasts no resort fees, but comes with countless amenities and local cultural activities to boot. Whether staying in a suite with an ocean, garden, or pool view, the picture perfect paradise of Hawaii awaits right outside your window. Located on the island’s pristine Kaanapali Beach, guests here may enjoy daily hula shows, as well as dinner theatre performances and even lei making! Relax and unwind, and learn a bit about the beautiful Hawaiian history while you are at it!

Royal Lahaina Resort

Located on the most exclusive part of Kaanapali Beach, Royal Lahaina Resort promises no resort fees, free wifi, and best price guarantee when booking directly through their website. Choose from a beachside cottage, tower room with an outstanding view or various well appointed suites. Royal Lahaina Resort regularly offers hot deals and specials to make your stay on Maui that much sweeter.

Maui Seaside Hotel

Maui Seaside Hotel has somehow found the perfect balance between offering its guests both the best in play and relaxation. Lovely oceanfront Kahului accommodations await, alongside the resort’s close proximity to Hookipa Beach, Iao State Park, golf at Maui Lani, and other exciting island activities. And the hotel’s no resort fee policy just serves to sweeten the deal.

Aston Maui Kaanapali

Perched upon 11 acres on pristine grounds, Aston Maui Kaanapali offers its guests accommodations on the most coveted stretch of Kaanapali Beach. Enjoy suites with fully equipped kitchens for your convenience, offering all the comforts of home but with a decidedly resort beauty.

Aston Kaanapali Shores

Also located in Kaanapali, Aston Kaanapali Shores is a beacon of beauty, perched upon six acres of idyllic coastline along Kaanapali Beach. While staying among its 463 guest rooms, visitors may play tennis onsite, enjoy the resort’s restaurants, and explore local charm in nearby Lahaina, while avid golfers will adore nearby Kaanapali Golf Course.

Aston at the Maui Banyan

Aston at the Maui Banyan, located right across the road from Kamaole Beach Park, features a pair of outdoor pools, a hot tub, and a tennis court. Its rooms, tropically decorated, each boast a private balcony, cable TV, and standard amenities.

Courtyard Maui Kahului Airport

Conveniently located right off the runway, Courtyard Maui Kahului Airport is located a mere 4 miles from Kahalui Airport, and features everything you would need to enjoy your next business trip or vacation. Guests staying here can avail themselves of the hotel’s outdoor pool, spacious rooms, complimentary wifi, and more.

Maui Coast Hotel

Maui Coast Hotel makes your island getaway memorable and affordable, offering accommodations in Kihei that are both comfortable and cost-efficient. Stroll across the street to Kamaole Beach, or walk just minutes away to enjoy numerous shopping, dining and entertainment options.

Castle Kamaole Sands

Keep the savings coming at Castle Kamaole Sands, one of the island’s most frequented facilities, where families, couples and individuals alike all can find a perfect fit for their next stay in paradise. Guests here may choose among one-, two-, and three-bedroom suites, each overlooking Kamaole Beach Park and featuring a fully-equipped kitchen, private lanai, high-speed Internet, and color cable TV. The hotel also has a wading pool, tennis courts, and more.

Maui Beach Hotel

Saving money just got even more magical with a stay at Maui Beach Hotel, centrally located in Kahului and a mere minutes from the airport. Relax in any of its 147 tropical-styled rooms, each with free high-speed Internet access, cable TV, air conditioning, mini-refrigerator, iron, bathroom amenities and a safe. The hotel also features an onsite fitness center.

Kaanapali Beach Club Resort

Cruise on over to Kaanapali Beach Club Resort and relax in stye without spending too much. Free parking is just one perk to be found among the resort’s 413 suites. Also able to be enjoyed are an onsite restaurant and pool bar, outdoor pool, fitness center, and more.

Seen here, a vacation to Maui can be magical AND affordable. E Komo Mai, and enjoy your stay!

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