Whether you’re looking to stay in the main town of Kailua-Kona, or out east in Hilo or anywhere in between, deals at these affordable Big Island hotels and resorts can be had for less than $200 a night.

Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo by Doubletree, Big Island

The city of Hilo, found on the Big Island’s east coast, is much less touristed than Kailua, delivering great deals and the chance to get closer to Mauna Kea and the Hamakua Coast. A top hotel pick here is the 379-room Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo by Doubletree with room rates as low as $150-199 in summer.

Those rates get you into a sleek, modern room with coffee and a microwave, plus free breakfast. The coastline here isn’t sand, but rather smooth black lava rock—the upside of which is that green sea turtles love sunbathing on this stretch. The Doubletree does charge a hotel fee, but that covers the onsite golf course, along with watersports and bike rentals.

Hawaiian Sanctuary Eco-Retreat

Set on 44 acres amid the forests of the inland Pahoa area on the eastern tip of the island — a hub for hippies and other nature-lovers — Hawaiian Sanctuary is an 11-room, rustic eco-retreat specializing in wellness and healthy living.

Onsite, you’ll fine a sauna and hot tub, as well as daily yoga classes. Room rates start at $160 a night to stay in the main lodge, with stand-alone cabins also available. A breakfast bounty of granola, fresh fruit, and coffee and tea is included in the stay. Those who want to spend time lounging on a Big Island beach should note that Isaac Hale Park is the closest ocean access point, located 30 minutes away.

Ka’awa Loa Plantation Bed-and-Breakfast

Ka’awa Loa Plantation Bed-and-Breakfast gives island-lovers all the best of Kailua-Kona without the crowds. This lush property sits 8 miles south of Kailua-Kona, and 1,200 feet above Kealakekua Bay in the Captain Cook area. The result is a quiet garden sanctuary where the bed-and-breakfast owners grow the fruit that’s served at daily breakfasts alongside homemade goodies such as pineapple-macadamia-nut cornbread.

As one of the most affordable hotels on the Big Island, the main lodge offers four rooms that rent for around $139 a night, with another stand-alone cottage. We love this site not only for the gardens where guests can pick avocados and passionfruit, and also for the Jacuzzi with ocean views, perfect come sunset at this west-facing property.

Hilton Waikoloa Village, Big Island

Water lovers couldn’t ask for more at Hilton Waikoloa Village, a 40-minute drive north of Kailua. This expansive, 649-room property offers a private black-sand beach, a flat-water protected lagoon and three outdoor pools with slides and a lazy river, as well as an adults-only pool. The protected lagoon is a hit with kids thanks to its white-sand beach and always-flat waters that create a safe, friendly experience for paddle boarding and other water sports, or just playing.

Beyond the water, this resort delivers plenty of entertainment, including tennis, luau shows and bicycle rentals. Rooms are extremely comfortable, but with décor that could be at any Hilton. Granted, the brand delivers a high standard for cleanliness and service, making the nightly rates starting at $225 a screaming deal.

Kona Islander Inn Hotel

The Kona Islander Inn Hotel offers visitors one of Hawaii’s best deals for a private room: Rates start at just $89, making this one of the most affordable hotels on the Big Island. Best of all, book at this 142-room hotel and you can hoof it to most sights in Kailua if you’re reasonably fit. The property is built in a Hawaiian plantation style, with rooms that have been updated with fun, trendy décor — much nicer than their website suggests.

Maureen’s Bed-and-Breakfast

In Hilo on the east coast of the Big Island lies Maureen’s Bed-and-Breakfast, which travelers who tread off the beaten path will treasure. The five rooms feature a Hawaii-meets-country décor, with quilts patterned with tropical taro leaves and other designs.

A breakfast spread of waffles, fruit, local coffee and more is included. Have your fill, then take on the 10-minute walk to Wai’olena Beach Park, which offers some of the clearest water on island (perfect for snorkeling), but no food vendors. Rates at Maureen’s start at $150 per night.

The Palms Cliff House Inn

The Palms Cliff House Inn, an eight-room bed-and-breakfast in the town of Honomu, north of Hilo, stands out for its quiet grandeur. This sweeping estate, spread across 3.5 acres, occupies a cliff overlooking the ocean, creating a dramatic stage for weddings or just mornings spent savoring coffee or tea. The inn will also arrange high tea for your party for an add-on charge. Tropical flowers, exotic fruits or massage treatments can also be prearranged. Rooms feature a traditional, plantation-style décor, and start at $199 per night, making this one of the most affordable hotels on the Big Island.

Uncle Billy’s Kona Bay Hotel

Located on the edge of Kailua Kona, Uncle Billy’s Kona Bay Hotel puts guests within walking distance of much of the city, and yet, sits right on its own quiet, natural beach, creating a relaxing retreat to come home to each night.

The property has on Old Hawaii feel, and the 436 rooms are a bit vanilla, but for rates around $130 a night, you won’t mind. Onsite, there’s not much by way of amenities — although there is a pool and coin-operated laundry — but this also means you save further as the hotel explicitly does not charge resort fees.

Royal Kona Resort

The Royal Kona Resort is easily the sweetest deal to be had in Kailua-Kona, located right on the water with room rates starting at $150 a night. We love the sunset views from this west-facing hotel, where 436 rooms are spread between towers of nine and 10 stories — elevated enough to create an epic viewing experience.

The property offers four onsite dining options, including the open-air, waterfront Don’s Mai Tai Bar, specializing in the state’s most beloved cocktail. Lastly, we love that seeing green sea turtles is a given right on property: The hotel’s coastline is smooth black lava rock where these protected reptiles catch sun almost daily.

Kona Seaside Hotel

The Kona Seaside Hotel, a gem located in the northern part of Kailua, is situated just a minute’s walk from the beach. The 225-room property merges clean lines with a Polynesian vibe — with rooms feeling fresh thanks to extreme attention paid to upkeep.

The hotel offers four categories of rooms, starting with their best rate of $149, which does not include breakfast. The deluxe room includes an ocean view, a small balcony as well as breakfast. Note: This property also charges no resort fee.

The post Most Affordable Hotels and Resorts on Hawaii’s Big Island appeared first on Islands.

Arriving at Cancun International Airport on a cloudy Monday afternoon, it didn’t take long for someone to ask if I’ve been to Cancun before. It is a fairly standard and harmless question, but also one that I feared would expose me as a former spring breaker who only sees the popular Mexican destination for its nightlife. So, with a slight smile I replied vaguely, “It’s been a while.”

I was excited to visit Cancun after all these years and with a clean slate of expectations. Long ago, I was content with a pillow and space on the floor. Now, though, I expect a lot more from a vacation (and certainly myself) and I was eager to experience the new VIP program at Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach, known simply as Ú.

More specifically, Ú is for a unique experience that will redefine your expectations for Cancun. Here are five aspects of Grand Fiesta Americana’s Ú that delivered a vacation I won’t soon forget.

The Program is Extremely Personal

Something that sets Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach apart from other Cancun resorts is that it isn’t all-inclusive, and that’s also what makes the added perks of Ú advantageous for guests. From the moment you enter the lobby, Ú is all about you, from a private reception with a glass of champagne to a ten-minute reflexology massage in the award-winning Gem Spa. The concierge provides a tour of the facilities, including everything that comes with the Ú program.

The oceanfront suites feature large seating areas, long terraces and bathrooms as big as most regular hotel rooms. The personal touches continue throughout the stay with extensive attention from the entire hotel staff, including the robe and slippers waiting by your king-size bed.

A Sensational Spa Experience

Walking into the resort’s Gem Spa felt like entering a science fiction movie’s spaceship. It is serene beyond expectations, with the running waters of the Pool of Sensations serving as a soothing soundtrack. Treatments begin with the 10-step hydrotherapy ritual, which must be experienced even if you prefer to find your peace and quiet on the beach. Moving from hot to cold rooms in 10-minute intervals was a little shocking, but in a good way. I felt invigorated and refreshed, positively prepared for the Mayan God ritual I’d scheduled.

My goal for my Gem Spa treatment was to experience the impossible — complete relaxation in a high-anxiety body — and so I chose a package that included a full-body scrub and wrap, in addition to a massage, and lasted approximately two hours. Needless to say, the treatment was exceptional and removed every last thought from my brain. (Unfortunately, I do not think that it turned me into a Mayan god, but I suppose time will tell.)

Five-diamond Dining

Creativity and authenticity are on full display throughout this resort’s dining establishments.

Le Basilic, one of only four AAA five-diamond restaurants in Cancun, raises the bar. The combination of the romantic setting and Chef Henri Charvet’s French Mediterranean cuisine are enough to deliver on the hype of this restaurant, but watching local artist León Alva create a painting as you dine takes the experience to another level.

The Table at La Joya blends art and food with a history lesson on a giant interactive table (hence the name), and I’m not sure I’ve ever had an eight-course meal, let alone finished one. Learning the basic history of the Yucatan Peninsula — from the prehistoric era to the rise and fall of the Mayan civilization and beyond — through local food and drinks was a delight, even if it left me a bit sluggish. And the best aperitif I’ve ever had was the pre-meal tequila tasting, at which the resident expert reaffirmed my longstanding belief that no one should ever put reposado in a margarita.

Usually a resort’s buffet wouldn’t bear mentioning, but Viña Del Mar’s champagne breakfast was phenomenal. From the fresh green juice to the Chichén Itzá-sized plate of chilequiles, I may plan my return trip solely for this daily spread.

Family-Friendly Offerings

Almost everything about the Ú experience is catered to adults, but do not mistake this as an adults-only experience. One of the most impressive aspects of this entire resort is the Coral KidZ Club, which will keep your children happy and busy whenever they aren’t enjoying the beach or the resort’s massive pools. In fact, upon seeing this area, I uttered a familiar phrase of astonishment: “Where was this when I was a kid?”

Kids of all ages will find myriad entertainment possibilities here, from a classic supermarket play set to video game stations equipped with Xbox consoles and educational games (the staff took great care in picking PG titles). Head further into the KidZ Club and you’ll find a dressing room, packed with costumes and wigs, that leads out to a stage where your children can be stars for a day. The next room looks like the set of Top Chef, as young guests can take cooking classes where they’ll learn how to make delicious baked goods.

Stepping back outside, you’ll find the pièce de résistance — a playground and water park, highlighted by a huge brontosaurus skeleton. And should your child grow tired of all of these activities, the KidZ Club staff will take them right back to the beach through the club’s exclusive gate. They’ve truly thought of everything.

Adventurous Activities

Beyond food and relaxation, the Ú package is loaded with amenities for active guests. Work off those incredible meals at the resort’s fitness center, or schedule your appointment for the sunrise yoga classes on Wednesdays and Sundays (they’re suitable for any skill level). Take to the water on paddleboards or wave-runners in the morning and enjoy 50 percent off a yacht rental during the afternoon. All of this is included with Ú.

Additionally, each guest receives a round-trip ferry ticket to Isla Mujeres for a day of shopping, exploring and even more dining. Although that would mean leaving the resort, which is truly difficult considering all that Ú offers.

The post We Tried the New VIP Experience at Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun appeared first on Islands.

After Chris Underwood was voted the winner of Survivor: Edge of Extinction, it was announced that the hit CBS reality series will remain in Fiji for the show’s 39th season, Survivor: Island of the Idols. This wasn’t really much of a surprise, considering this will be the seventh consecutive season to be filmed in the Mamanuca Islands, and the eighth overall to take place in Fiji.

Basically, Jeff Probst has no plans to ever leave Fiji.

“I hope we stay here forever,” the host and executive producer told Entertainment Weekly in 2017. “This is our home,” he continued, “I hope we end our show here.”

Still a ratings juggernaut, Survivor won’t be ending anytime soon, so it’s safe to say that Probst will get his wish. Citing the beautiful water, incredible beaches and friendly people, he called Survivor‘s presence in Fiji a “win-win-win,” but we want to add one more win because the show is bringing attention to islands that should be on every traveler’s wish list.

Here are five reasons why Survivor keeps coming back to Fiji’s Mamanuca Islands, and why you should consider making it your next vacation destination.

Follow in Tom Hanks’ Footsteps

Survivor isn’t the only pop culture hit to film in the Mamanuca Islands. The 2000 Tom Hanks movie Cast Away was filmed on Monuriki, an uninhabited island that became a popular tourist spot following the film’s success. In fact, tours of Monuriki are offered by resorts and companies from the other islands — the actual Castaway Island provides a champagne brunch on Monuriki before snorkeling and a tour of the movie’s filming location — giving guests the opportunity to shout, “I have made fire!”

Bounty Island was also the filming location for the reality series Celebrity Love Island, which wasn’t nearly as popular as Survivor and might not inspire as many people to visit. However, Bounty Island is ideal for day trips, thanks to the SeaView water craft, which gives passengers a view of the area’s marine life.

Accommodations for All

What makes the Mamanuca Islands so great is that they’re perfect for everyone. Couples looking for a romantic getaway can head to Mana Island’s five-star Tadrai Island Resort, which was created exclusively for couples.

Malolo Lailai Island is home to the adults-only Lomani Island Resort, which was named for the Fijian word for love.

Families have a bevy of options as well. Vomo Island’s private resort takes entertaining little ones to the next level as Vomo Activities Coordinators are available to entertain children ages 4 and up in the Kids Village from 9 am to 9 pm. Baby Butlers are also available at an hourly rate for children under 4.

The Sheraton Resort and Spa on Tokoriki Island offers activities, games and fitness at the Lailai Kids Club, in addition to special family suites and even miniature golf.

Stay Overwater

Most accommodations in Fiji are bures (thatched-roof huts), and there are a handful of overwater options. Located on Malolo, the Likuliku Lagoon Resort has 10 private overwater bures highlighted by king-size beds, private decks and bathtubs that offer views of the lagoon.

Legendary Surfing

The Mamanuca Islands are a favorite destination for surfers all over the world. Namotu Island is just 3 miles from Cloudbreak, known as one of the best waves in the world. In addition to Cloudbreak, pros and advanced surfers also love the wave known as Restaurants, located near Tavarua Island.

While Cloudbreak and Restaurants aren’t ideal for beginners, Mamanuca’s waters cater to all skill sets. Also near Namotu, Swimming Pools is a great spot for novice surfers, while more experienced surfers will find challenges at Wilkes Passage, northwest of Namotu.

Adventures on the Water

Less experienced wave-riders can hook up with Jet Ski Island Adventures to tour Monuriki’s filming locations, Cloudbreak and more, and snorkeling stops are included.

Larger groups can charter a luxury catamaran from Unique Charters and see the Mamanuca Islands, enjoying lunch and dinner from the catamaran’s deck in between stopping for diving and paddleboard excursions.

The post 5 Reasons to Visit the Mamanuca Islands, where ‘Survivor’ Films in Fiji appeared first on Islands.

Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort

If you’re coming to Oahu and want to stay right on the beach with a pool and all the amenities to match, your best value is the Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort. The property has a spa, as well as free included activities, such as lei making, hula lessons and ukelele lessons.

You’ll find several restaurants, including a pool bar and a Starbucks Café. Rooms during high season fetch prices around $289, but drop to $239 a night in slower months, such as August.

The Modern Honolulu

Hip and fun, The Modern Honolulu hotel caters to single and social travelers who appreciate nightly live music at several onsite venues. The Study, a swank watering hole found behind a rotating bookshelf wall, is rated one of Waikiki’s best bars, and Addiction is a nightclub on property.

But The Modern isn’t all party, all the time. The outdoor space packs two pools, one for adults only, and one for families. Regardless of your age, you’ll appreciate that this hotel is right on the water — although, technically, it’s located along a marina, not golden sand.

As for the 353 rooms, each features a color palette of whites and neutrals, with blues courtesy of the ocean views from the hotel tower and its balconies. Oh, and room service is available 24 hours a day, helping you keep a late-night party going with drinks and pizza, or start an early morning off with a green smoothie. Room rates around $199.

Hotel La Croix

Completely renovated in 2017, Hotel La Croix features 188 rooms with glass walls, modern décor with pops of color and fun, quirky touches that make the rooms feel personal. It’s a 15-minute walk to the beach, which you can skip thanks to the hotel’s free shuttle.

For dining options, Lacroix Bistro serves breakfast, and the hotel is adding an oyster bar, and a craft coffee and juice bar pouring Hawaiian coffee and espresso drinks. Rates start at around $160 per night, making this one of Oahu’s most affordable hotels.

Ke Iki Beach Bungalows

Every one of the 11 Ke Iki Beach Bungalows offers slightly different décor, and range in size from studios to two bedrooms — and all are located right on the beach of Oahu’s north shore, renting for about $200 a night.

We like that every unit comes with a free kitchen, helping you save further by preparing your own meals. Plus, with onsite hammocks, grills and picnic tables, you’ll have plenty of room to relax and dine al fresco.

Surfjack Hotel and Swim Club

We love the vibe of the Surfjack Hotel and Swim Club, a 112-room boutique property merging funky beach décor with mid-century modern style to create a one-of-a-kind trendy space just five blocks from Waikiki Beach, one of the best things to do on Oahu.

Onsite eatery Mahina and Sun’s dishes up a modern take on island cuisine. The menu highlights local, seasonal fare including Kualoa oysters, Kauai shrimp, and Uncle’s ice cream sandwiches, made with Kona coffee ice cream with salted caramel. The property also features a coffee bar and a boutique with his and hers surf and beachwear.

Plus, the hotel hosts hip events, from silent disco parties to art workshops. Bonus: Guests enjoy free use of bicycles. Rates start at $159 per night, making this one of the most affordable Oahu hotels.

Paradise Bay Resort

Located in Kaneohe on Oahu’s east coast (a 35-minute drive from Waikiki Beach), is Paradise Bay Resort, offering 40 guest rooms across five budget categories, all decorated in plantation style with rich woods and tropical decor.

Choose this escape if you’re seeking a quieter getaway closer to the elements, or if you’re looking for a family-friendly Oahu resort. The resort is on the water, and offers complimentary kayaks and snorkel gear, as well as yoga and meditation classes. A full breakfast spread is included for a nightly rate around $200.

Lotus Honolulu Hotel at Diamond Head

For travelers who want beach access without the late-night noise, consider Lotus Honolulu Hotel, a 10-minute walk south of Waikiki and just a 1-minute walk from the beach. This property is also one of the best Oahu hotels for couples, thanks to its spacious rooms and wonderful views.

Each of the 51 rooms comes with an in-room Illy brand espresso maker, and all guests have access to free use of beach chairs and bicycles. One fun perk of the hotel is a complimentary wine happy hour in the late afternoon. As one of the most affordable Oahu hotels, rates start at $162 per night.

Turtle Bay Resort

Located on a choice stretch of the northernmost tip of the island, Turtle Bay Resort brings together the best of scenic Oahu, from cliff jumping into clear, turquoise waters to soft, caramel-colored beaches. Plus, Turtle Bay delivers the best of resort amenities, starting with two pools and two golf courses. You can also find some of the best snorkeling in Oahu in front of the resort at Kuilima Cove.

The resort compound includes seven restaurants and bars, including Roy’s Beach House created by the famous Roy Yamaguchi. There’s also Surfer, an unpretentious bar with live music several nights each week. Rooms evoke the serenity of the sea, with a color palette rich with blues and the neutral hues of the beach. Side note: We love the fact that this resort was the setting of the movie Forgetting Sarah Marshall. Rates start as low as $280 in shoulder season.

Hotel Renew

Hotel Renew does not offer your typical beachy, islandy resort experience, but rather, a sleek, urban-feeling escape located just a few blocks from downtown Waikiki proper, and just a 2-minute walk to Kuhio Beach.

What Hotel Renew does offer are 72 clean, modern rooms, as well as a free breakfast that includes smoothies, pastries and eggs, all for around $150-195 per night, depending on season. The hotel offers free Wi-fi, as well as beach chairs, bamboo mats and boogie boards to borrow for the day.

Owen’s Retreat

If you’re traveling to Oahu to get in sync with nature, there’s no better place to bed down than Owen’s Retreat in Mokuleia on the North Shore. This little compound offers a studio, as well as one-bedroom, two-bedroom and four-bedroom units, with the studio renting for $240 a night.

Inside, each unit is pristinely clean but super basic. But you’re renting here not for the décor, but for the privilege of staying steps from the golden Oahu beach. You’ll wake up and have coffee on the outdoor balcony while enjoying ocean views where you may catch sight of humpback whales or monk seals.

Hawaiian Princess Resort

Head to the Hawaiian Princess Resort on the western side of Oahu for a high-rise hotel experience with ample amenities, all located right on the quiet Papaoneone Beach, part of the Waianae Coast.

Enjoy hotel perks such as tennis courts, a pool and a hot tub. The rooms have plenty of personality, with tropical, bright colors and an updated, fun feel. Rooms start at around $200 a night.

The post Most Affordable Oahu Hotels and Resorts appeared first on Islands.

Beyond the mega-resorts, Hawaii’s Big Island also offers you and your crew condo hotels, lodges and more — letting you choose just the right fit for your family vacation to Hawaii. Here are the ten best Big Island hotels and resorts for families.

Hilton Waikoloa Village

The Hilton Waikoloa Village impresses from the moment of arrival at the grand, open-air lobby. Set on the Kohala Coast 40 minutes north of Kailua-Kona, this resort sprawls across 62 acres, including its own private beach. We love that this Hilton caters to water lovers, with a shallow, protected 4-acre lagoon that makes for easier swimming and paddle boarding when the ocean is rough. And, yes, water sports are included.

Onsite, you’ll also find three pools and a 175-foot waterslide. Kids ages 5 to 12 can take part in Club Keiki, which includes games as well as exploring the island’s ecosystems. Children will get a kick out of taking the tram and canal boats around the property, and seeing the dolphins at the onsite sanctuary — even if you don’t spring for the experience of feeding or swimming with them, you can still watch.

Moreover, this Hilton knows how to add value, giving families the option of discounted packages that let you add breakfast for four each morning, or get credits for extra entertainment, such as a luau night.

The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort

The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort is exactly what you picture when you imagine a tropical Hawaii getaway. The main hotel opens to two winding pools with ample seating, leading to a wide, white-sand beach.

For families who crave beach and pool time, this is heaven — you’ll stop only to refuel poolside at the Naupaka Beach Grill. The resort also offers half- and full-day kids’ club programming for younger guests ages 5 to 12, allowing parents to take advantage of the Arnold-Palmer-designed Hapuna Golf Course as well as the Hapuna Spa.

Fairmont Orchid

The Fairmont Orchid expertly blends the resort experience while the culture of Hawaii. The 540-room beach resort is set on 32 acres fronting Pauoa Bay. Six restaurants, a spa, and 24-hour fitness center are all found onsite.

As one of the best Big Island hotels for families, the Fairmont offers a kids program — the Keiki Aloha Adventure — offered by the half and full day for youths ages 5 to 12. Children of all ages will enjoy the resort’s hula and ukulele lessons, hikes to local petroglyphs and turtle talks, offered at no additional charge. Plus, a complimentary photo session with Pacific Dream Photography means you can take home a new family portrait as a souvenir.

Sheraton Kona Resort and Spa at Keauhou Bay

Guests who choose the Sheraton Kona Resort and Spa at Keauhou Bay, 20 minutes south of Kailua, prefer it for its more authentic-Hawaii vibe. This 508-room property is still one of the most affordable for families, in large part because the Sheraton isn’t trying to compete with mega-resorts. The hotel pool faces the ocean, and offers a waterslide and kids’ zone with a splash deck. Best of all, we love that the pool is open 24 hours a day — a nice option for jet-lagged kiddos (and parents) waking up at 4 a.m.

Steps from the pool you’ll find ocean swimming, but with a lava-rock entry. The Sheraton also offers Club Le’ale’a, a zone for younger kids with games and activities; however, parent supervision is required. Adults aren’t required at the Keiki Cave, a hangout for tweens and teens with foosball, ping-pong, air hockey, shuffleboard and Nintendo Wii. And although the property sits 20 minutes south of the town of Kailua, but the hotel offers free shuttles to connect you with the action.

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai

One of the most upscale properties on the Big Island, the Four Seasons Hualalai delivers the service, privacy and five-star experience you’d expect from the only AAA Five Diamond-rated property in all of Hawaii. We love that the resort offers seven pools, with more than enough seating and shaded canopy tents for all families staying at the hotel.

The white-sand beach is the stuff of postcards. Snorkeling and tide-pool experiences are found on site, giving you more entertainment options without leaving the property. Should you want it, the property offers a Kids for All Seasons program, with games and experiences planned all day for kids ages 5 to 12; programs for tweens are also available.

As for dining, choose from five restaurants, including ‘Ulu Ocean Grill, ranked as the best on the island for its fresh, fusion fare, such as lemongrass barbecue chicken and the roasted mahi-mahi with brown butter kabayaki, sourced with local ingredients.

Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel

Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel is one of the best deals in Kailua-Kona. This 452-room property is located in the heart of town, just next to the Kailua Pier. If you’ve planned on any things to do out on the water, including parasailing, snorkeling day trips, glass-bottom boat tours or a trip inside the Atlantis Submarine, then this location couldn’t be more convenient.

The hotel itself is right on the water, but note that the caramel-color sand beach is on the small side. Snorkeling, kayaking and luau shows three nights a week are all available at an added charge. What is free is the massive collection of games, including ping-pong, bocce ball, giant Jenga, shuffleboard and corn hole.

Note that overall, this property is better suited to older children or families not needing daycare as there is no kids club available or babysitting available through the hotel.

Mauna Kea Beach Hotel

Not only is Mauna Kea Beach Hotel one of the best Big Island hotels for families, but the property’s beachfront location is hard to beat. Found 40 minutes north of Kailua-Kona, the resort sits on one of the best beaches on the Big Island, opening to flat, turquoise water. Families will appreciate the soft-sand entry and the width of the beach, which allows groups to spread out with ample space.

Daily activities on the beach, including shell art, lei-making and hula, are all included. Mauna Kea Keiki Club is also available, with half- and full-day programs available for kids ages 5 to 12. Onsite, you’ll also find tennis, golf, a spa, plus watersports such as paddle boarding and sailing. As a bonus, we love that room service is available for breakfast, lunch and dinner for those times when rounding up the troops for a sit-down is too much.

Hilo Hawaiian Beach Hotel

For families looking for a base in Hilo, the Hilo Hawaiian Beach Hotel offers great value. This 286-room, eight-story hotel is sandwiched between the ocean and the Lili’uokalani Park and Gardens, a 24-acre grounds with Japanese gardens, fishponds and a teahouse.

The hotel is on the water, but its location is a rocky stretch of coast — which makes for a tougher entry for small children, but offers a much more enjoyable snorkeling experience. Overall, we like this property for its quiet feel, as well as its quick access to waterfalls and other natural attractions.

Aston Kona by the Sea

We chose Aston Kona by the Sea as one of the best Big Island resorts for families for its one- and two-bedroom condos. In addition to the extra room to spread out (and have some privacy), families can save money by staying in and cooking a dinner or two — or every night of the trip. The resort also offers barbecue grills for dining alfresco near the pool that overlooks the ocean.

This resort sits oceanside on a rocky beach, but the property has added a man-made sand beach held in place with a retaining wall. While the Aston does not have an onsite restaurant or a kids club, it is located on a cove that’s ideal for snorkeling and surfing — so some entertainment is included.

Kilauea Lodge

Kilauea Lodge, located in Volcano Village near Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, packs a ton of charm thanks to its former life as a YMCA camp. The whole property has been overhauled since then, with the 12 rooms and four cottages entirely revamps and updated. (All the fireplaces, wood walls and personality remain.)

We like this property for families as the grounds allow for ample exploration, and the rooms are spacious, with couches that pull out into beds. Onsite, you’ll also find a restaurant, where breakfast is included, as well as a hot tub.

The post Best Big Island Hotels and Resorts for Families appeared first on Islands.

Kauai Beach Resort

Experiences at this 25-acre Kauai Beach Resort give guests a true immersion into Polynesian culture, including a Nukoli’i Sunrise Ceremony, local music, lei making, hula lessons and an education talk about how Pacific Navigators traveled without modern navigation tools.

Newly renovated plantation-style rooms in neutral tones face the mountains, ocean or gardens. A water complex has two lagoon pools with waterfalls, one regular pool and a sand-bottomed kids’ pool, along with a waterslide and hot tub, and three dining concepts pique palates with upscale cuisine or casual fare. Bonus: treats at the shave ice bar can be spiked with local Koloa Rum.

Hotel Coral Reef Resort

Hotel Coral Reef Resort is a boutique beachfront hotel that just underwent an overhaul and added amenities, yet charges no resort fee. It’s situated in the town of Kapa’a, which bustles with tourists perusing its shops, restaurants and farmers markets, as well as enjoying live entertainment.

Accommodations at this affordable Kauai resort include private lanais, parking, use of bicycles and beach chairs, complimentary breakfast, tea and coffee, and use of the gas barbecue grill. Some oceanfront rooms have soaking tubs, microwaves and in-room refrigerators, and the oceanfront lagoon pool has a tropical waterfall.

Kauai Palms

Because Kauai Palms is just a five-minute drive from the Lihue Airport you’ll be able to experience the island’s charms that much quicker. It’s nestled on a quiet street with views of the Kipu Mountains; a short walk away you’ll find a dozen dining options in the nearby Lihue Restaurant District, plus Kalena Park for those with children looking for free things to do in Kauai.

Rooms are decorated in an island style, some with kitchenettes or full kitchens, coffee makers, mini fridges and flat screen televisions. The beach is a short drive or a pleasant half hour walk away.

Courtyard Kauai at Coconut Beach

Start or end the day relaxing on your private lanai overlooking the garden, mountains or beach at Courtyard Kauai at Coconut Beach, an affordable hotel on Kauai’s east side that’s named for the growing groves of coconut palms.

The pool, whirlpool and beach are dotted with lounge chairs, hammocks and fire pits, and the Voyager Lanai’s all-day menu offers up mahi mahi fish and chips, tuna poke and slow-roasted pork belly with ginger glaze and Hawaiian slaw. A lomi lomi or coffee massage at Pua Day Spa is an indulgent splurge.

Garden Island Inn Hotel

Garden Island Inn Hotel, a small, artsy boutique hotel by Kalapaki Beach, has been family-owned and -operated since 1989. Its 21 tropically decorated rooms, suites and condos have kitchenettes, flat-screen televisions include DVDs of movies filmed on the island. Some also have private lanais with partial ocean and mountain views, and the hotel staff will even fill your room daily with fresh flowers cut from their garden. They don’t charge a resort fee but still offer free parking, morning snacks and coffee in the lobby, use of beach chairs, boogie boards, snorkel sets and fins, beach towels and coolers.

Banyan Harbor Resort

Kalapaki Beach is close to Banyan Harbor Resort in Lihue, partially protected from the ocean by a large break wall which makes it perfect for swimming, floating and stand-up paddle boarding. (The property is also just a few minutes’ drive from the Lihue airport.)

Each of the one-bedroom condos and two-bedroom townhouses comes with separate living and dining areas, a fully equipped kitchen and a private lanai. Resort fee provides use of the saltwater heated pool, parking, tennis and basketball courts, picnic areas, poolside barbecue grills, shuffleboard, pickleball and an activities desk.

Hilton Garden Inn Kauai Wailua Bay

The Hilton Garden Inn Kauai Wailua Bay‘s location adjacent to family-friendly Lydgate State Park translates to ample space to play and picnic on the beach, swim and snorkel in its two protected lagoons and bike and walk on the 2½-mile trail.

Spread out in a spacious room, suite or two-bedroom cottage and splash in the two pools and whirlpool. There is a resort fee but since it includes a shell lei greeting, two complimentary Mai Tais or soft drinks per room per night, a Hawaiian cultural sunrise ceremony, a two-hour Ke Ala Hele Makalae bike ride, and usage of coolers and beach mats, we think it’s worth it.

Kauai Coast Resort at the Beachboy

The new freeform pool and jacuzzi with natural rock formations are the focal points for Kauai Coast Resort at the Beachboy, an affordable Kauai hotel on the Royal Coconut Coast. The coastline here is quite rocky; if that’s not your thing head to one of the sandy beaches nearby.

One- and two-bedroom accommodations done in a contemporary style have private lanais from which to spot flora and fauna. Hukilau Lanai restaurant offers up Pacific Rim cuisine, steaks and seafood by the water and the Hawaiian Sea Salt Glow at Spa Makaiwa will leave skin smooth and bright.

Kauai Shores Hotel

The vibe at Kauai Shores Hotel on the island’s Coconut Coast is bright, funky and fun, from the pops of neon green and teal in the rooms to the bright orange beach umbrellas to the overflowing cups of shave ice from Lava Lava Beach Club.

Some of the newly remodeled accommodations come with a garden, pool or ocean view, and some are also equipped with kitchenettes. The Hospitality Fee gives guests niceties like bike rentals, water, use of the in-room Keurig machine, Wi-Fi, outdoor yoga and two Mai Tai Coupons.

Makai Club Resort

On a hillside on Kauai’s North Shore in Princeville next to the Makai Golf Club, intimate Makai Club Resort is comprised of one-bedroom condos and two-bedroom cottages. All are bright and airy and contain full kitchens and lanais. The cottages are more than twice the size of the condos and some are on two levels, making them an ideal choice for families or groups with up to six guests.

The affordable Kauai resort touts a pool, jacuzzi, fire pit, golf, bicycles, propane barbecue grills, a concierge, a business center and onsite parking. Complimentary weekly treats include root beer floats, Mai Tais and pupus, ice cream sundaes and popsicles.

The post Most Affordable Hotels and Resorts on Kauai appeared first on Islands.

They offer low-key relaxation with access to the adrenaline-fueled adventure activities for which Hawaii’s largest and youngest island is known. Here are the 10 best beach resorts on Hawaii’s Big Island.

The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort

If enjoying soft sand and warm surf is your top priority, it’s hard to top the postcard perfection of Hapuna Beach. Here, in the serene setting of the Kohala Coast, you can check in to the 249-room, 17-suite The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort to enjoy newly renovated guestrooms with contemporary décor, The Westin’s signature Heavenly Beds and partial or full ocean views.

The property (formerly the Hapuna Prince and celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2019) also features the Arnold Palmer-designed Hapuna Golf Course, two pools (one an adults-only infinity pool and the other a 6,800-square-foot freeform pool designed for families), four restaurants featuring Mediterranean and Hawaii-inspired cuisine, and a Mandara Spa. It’s also one of the best hotels on Hawaii’s Big Island for couples.

Hilton Waikoloa Village

There’s plenty to keep every member of the family—from toddlers who love to splash to grandparents looking to hit the links—happy at this expansive and affordable 62-acre complex on the Kohala Coast. In fact, it’s two parts resort, one part aquatic park and one part shopping mall. The 1,172 rooms and suites at one of the best hotels on Hawaii’s Big Island, Hilton Waikoloa Village, are located in three low-rise towers connected by canals that are serviced by mahogany boats.

The Makai at Lagoon Tower, located near the Kona Pool (which has a 175-foot water slide), is the most upscale and offers guests special amenities (such as complimentary spa access and priority reservations at restaurants). The Palace Tower has the most contemporary décor (plus fast Wi-Fi) and features rooms with mountain and bay views, and the Ocean Tower is located near the adults-only pool and the kid-friendly Kohala River Pool featuring junior waterslides. Guests also enjoy 14 restaurants, a saltwater snorkeling lagoon set on a white-sand beach, a Dolphin Quest program and two golf courses.

Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa at Keauhou Bay

If you don’t take the term “beach resort” literally, you’ll discover great value at this 508-room resort perched on the black-lava cliffs of Keauhou Bay. Overlooking clear aqua water where giant manta rays can be spotted gliding and feeding, the Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa at Keauhou Bay is optimally located for enjoying the many watersports (diving, stand-up paddle boarding and more), bars and dining in lively Kailua-Kona. When its time to explore other things to do on the Big Island, the resort’s location is also prime for seeing sights along the coast (including Kealakekua Bay, known for its great snorkeling) on the way to Volcanoes National Park.

That said, the property’s large freeform pool, set in an ocean-facing courtyard, can be quite boisterous. But there’s lots to love about the lush green lawns and gardens that house a charming wedding chapel and the Asian-fusion menu at Rays on the Bay—where dining is often accompanied by manta ray sightings.

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai

White sand and black lava create a striking visual against the lushness of this 243-room resort located on the Big Island’s legendary Kona Coast. Golden sunsets, challenging greens on the Jack Nicklaus-designed Hualalai Golf Course and bursts of tropical florals from the lobby to the guestrooms paint the Four Season Resort Hualalai in a palette that inspires renewal.

Accommodations range from 635-square-foot Oceanview Rooms to villas sized from 2,600 to 5,518 square feet. The resort is set on a ½ mile of beach and features seven pools, including one that’s adults only, plus there’s a unique salt-water King’s Pond for family-friendly snorkeling alongside thousands of tropical fish. Honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles) also swim right offshore and often scramble onto the sand.

Dining is equally memorable, from the barefoot casual vibe of Beach Tree to the regional, seasonal, artisanal menu at ‘Ulu Ocean Grill. And the view at sunset from the Beach Tree Bar and Lounge will make you wish you could be there every night.

Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa

Easy on the budget and well located for exploring the island’s scenic interior, this recently redesigned resort sprawls along the coast overlooking Anaeho’omalu Bay and has a long stretch of golden-sand beach lapped by calm waters. The Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa features a large open-air lobby leading to an expansive central pool area with a kid-friendly waterslide that’s flanked by hotel wings housing 295 rooms offering a range of pool and ocean views.

The contemporary décor is ocean-and-beach-inspired—airy white, soft sandy beige and soothing blue—and the most luxurious are the Na Hale Oceanfront category. The property, one of the best beach resorts on Hawaii’s Big Island, is also known for its two championship golf courses and historic Hawaiian fishponds, while dining is centered in the Hawaii Calls restaurant, serving a blend of American and Pacific Rim cuisine, and the spa is managed by Mandara.

Mauna Kea Beach Hotel

Only one resort can claim to be the Big Island’s first and that title belongs to Mauna Kea Beach Hotel on Kauna’oa Bay. It dates to 1965 and was developed by conservationist/hotelier Laurance S. Rockefeller. Now part of the Autograph Collection, this 252-room property features one of the finest crescent beaches on the Kohala Coast, the equally lauded Mauna Kea Golf Course (also the island’s first) and Rockefeller’s art collection comprised of hundreds of museum-caliber pieces.

Recent renovations have added a sleeker, more contemporary edge to décor in spacious rooms and suites. Better still, many accommodations have ocean views. Activities include golf, tennis, watersports, snorkeling, yoga and even bocce ball. Manta is the property’s signature restaurant, serving Pacific Rim cuisine, and the Copper Bar offers a timeless setting for creative tapas, locally sourced entrees and craft cocktails. There’s also an on-property luau and romantic private dining in several tiki-torch-lit locales.

Grand Naniloa Resort, A Doubletree by Hilton

Again, it’s lava, beautiful lava at this 320-room waterfront property set on a peninsula in lush, green Hilo and offering access to waterfalls, zip-lines and water activities such as stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking and snorkeling. The Grand Naniloa Resort, A Doubletree by Hilton features clean, contemporary décor, along with a collection of Kim Taylor Reece fine art photos of hula dancers, and offers fantastic views of Hilo Bay from its lobby and from many rooms and suites (all updated in 2016).

For relaxation, there’s a small oceanfront pool surrounded by green lawns and golfers can play Hilo’s only 9-hole course, located adjacent to the hotel; two rounds per guest daily are included in the nightly resort fee, as is basic Wi-Fi, snorkel rentals and complimentary Big Island Breeze cocktails in the lobby bar.

Royal Sea Cliff Kona by Outrigger

There’s no white-sand beach here, but travelers who love the ease of a condo rental can opt to book a spacious studio, one-bedroom or two-bedroom unit with a full kitchen and washer/dryer at the oceanfront Royal Sea Cliff Kona by Outrigger.

Conveniently located just five minutes’ drive from Kailua-Kona—where there are bars, restaurants and outfitters for snorkeling, diving and adventure tours—this property sits atop black-lava cliffs and features two pools, a whirlpool, tennis courts and a barbecue area. If relaxing on your private lanai listening to the sound of surf crashing against the rugged shoreline while nibbling and sipping fresh treats from your fridge isn’t Big Island nirvana, what is?

Read Next: Most Romantic Hotels on the Big Island

Fairmont Orchid

Orchids are one of Hawaii’s most beautiful botanicals and this 540-room resort, known for its elegant setting on 32 garden-like acres of Kohala Coast shoreline and its Hawaiian-centric spa, lives up to its name. While its grounds are studded with black-lava outcroppings, the Fairmont Orchid boasts plenty of appealing places to soak up the sun: a serene stretch of sandy beach, a calm lagoon and a 10,000-square-foot oceanfront swimming pool.

Activities include golf, tennis, snorkeling, outrigger canoeing and stand-up paddle boarding. Relaxation is the specialty at the Spa Without Walls, where guests can opt for an al fresco (but totally private) treatment with ingredients sourced on island. Nine restaurants and bars also focus on native Hawaiian specialties and seafood, from flavorful Hawaiian Regional Cuisine at award-winning Brown’s Beach House to the new modern Japanese menu at Binchotan Bar and Grill.

Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection

Re-opening in January 2020 after a $200 million refurbishment by its new owners, Auberge Resorts, this iconic Big Island property (it opened in 1983) occupies 30 acres on the sunny Kohala Coast. The new Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection—set on 3 miles of coastline with two stellar white-sand beaches—will offer 333 guestrooms, 38 luxury suites and five villas with 5,000-square-feet of indoor and outdoor space as well as private pools.

Interiors will feature a neutral palette of natural materials such as rich hardwoods and gorgeously patterned stone. The property’s signature CanoeHouse restaurant, know for its open-air setting and sublime sunset views, will remain, although with updated décor and menus. Three pools (one adults-only and a redesigned Family Pool), an Auberge Spa, tennis courts, the Mauna Lani Golf Club (offering 36 manicured holes on two courses) and historic royal fish ponds will make this one of the island’s most coveted escapes.

The post Best Beach Resorts on Hawaii’s Big Island appeared first on Islands.

But some hotels and resorts on this beautiful and popular island offer even more of the adult-focused amenities and seductive ambiance that make for a memorable romantic getaway. Read on for our picks for the 10 best hotels in Maui for couples.

Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

The Four Seasons brand is synonymous with luxurious accommodations, impeccable design and some of the world’s top hotel dining, and the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea offers all that and more in 15 manicured acres overlooking Wailea Beach.

With its 307 rooms and suites consistently cited as among the most inviting and spacious on the island, its extensive Hawaiian art collection and three notable restaurants—Ferraro’s for modern Mediterranean-Italian, DUO for steak and seafood, and the Maui outpost of Wolfgang Puck’s Spago)—this resort is the definition of island sophistication. It’s a combination that attracts couples, but this is also a family-friendly Maui resort, especially during summer and the holidays. But with three pools (one an adults-only infinity pool), complimentary cabanas, and a spa which also offers three breezy oceanfront treatment hales, adult relaxation time is more than plentiful.

Montage Kapalua Bay

If your idea of romance includes being able to cook together in a gourmet kitchen using fresh, local ingredients and then enjoying your culinary creations on your own private lanai, one of the 50 residential-style accommodations at Montage Kapalua Bay, one of the best hotels in Maui for couples, could be the perfect hideaway.

Tucked into 24 lush hillside acres above tranquil Kapalua Bay and beach, this resort manages to be fabulously luxurious and yet still feel like home. All residences were given a refresh in 2018 that pays homage to Hawaii’s natural surroundings. Other indulgences include a cascading, three-level Sunset Pool, two championship golf courses, the atmospheric Cane & Canoe restaurant (serving locally sourced seafood and steak), and Spa Montage offering Maui-inspired treatments.

The Fairmont Kea Lani

Its distinctive white Moorish architecture sets it apart from other Maui resorts and together with its location on 22 lushly landscaped acres on Wailea’s Polo Beach creates a seductive ambiance that’s almost impossible to replicate. Yes, The Fairmont Kea Lani is family-friendly, so avoid a stay over school breaks if you’d rather not see children.

But when you consider that the resort offers 413 spacious one-bedroom suites (the smallest is 860 square feet) and 37 villas, plus three pools (one designated adults-only), a Willow Stream Spa that uses Maui-sourced products, an onsite Hawaii cultural program (the outrigger canoe experience is terrific) and four restaurants (most notably Kō, serving award-winning Hawaiian Regional Cuisine), there’s plenty of romance, too.

Travaasa Hana

When there are no kids in the back seat imploring, “Are we there yet?” the four-hour scenic drive on the Road to Hana is unbelievably romantic (unless you suffer from motion sickness, since there are 620 curves). But the real treasure lies at the end of the road at Travaasa Hana, a serene hideaway that’s the perfect spot to unwind, get pampered in the spa with natural Hawaiian ingredients, dine on flavorful South Pacific-inspired cuisine and embrace romance beneath dreamy, star-filled skies.

The 69-acre property, set amid rolling ranch land that overlooks the dramatic black-lava coast of East Maui (it originally gained acclaim as Hotel Hana Maui), features a mix of cottages and suites and guests can book on a room-only or all-inclusive basis. Our advice: Check into an airy Ocean Bungalow featuring a lanai with sea views and forget the rest of world is out there.

The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua

For romance coupled with insight into local Hawaiian culture, it’s hard to beat The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua. This 463-room resort set on 54 secluded acres in the upscale enclave of Kapalua delivers luxurious accommodations, Hawaii-centric fine dining and indulgent spa experiences for couples along with abundant Aloha spirit (Kapalua means “arms embracing the sea”).

Part of the land here is the Honokahua Preservation Site, which is sacred to native Hawaiians, so honoring island lore and healing traditions is in the property’s DNA—it has a Hawaiian Cultural Advisor and arts and music programming for guests.

Recreation-wise, the Ritz-Carlton has a stunning tiered pool area, six on-site restaurants, 36 holes of championship golf and abundant water- and land-based activities. And while it is popular with families, poolside cabanas for two and private dining experiences set the mood for romance and make this property one of the best hotels in Maui for couples.

Hotel Wailea

How’s this for the perfect just-the-two-of-you romantic Maui honeymoon? A luxurious, Hawaii-beach-house-inspired one-bedroom suite at Hotel Wailea, Hawaii’s first and only Relais & Chateaux property, and its only luxury adults-only hotel.

You’ll have access to three championship golf courses, the golden sand of nearby Wailea Beach (as you’re attended to by beach valets) and a fleet of Tesla Model X house vehicles for cruising the Wailea resort area, home to some of Maui’s top dining and shopping. The 72-suite hotel is set 300 feet above the sea on 15 acres meticulously landscaped with tropical gardens, waterfalls and cabana-lined pools. And the cuisine? It’s fresh, local, creative and served in an intimate garden strung with twinkling tea lights.

Read More: Best Kauai Hotels and Resorts for Couples

Andaz Maui at Wailea

Who says modern can’t be romantic? Couples who adore contemporary interior design, sustainable and locally sourced menus and who just don’t feel the same without their favorite four-legged friend along for their honeymoon or vacation, can have it all at the 301-room, pet-friendly Andaz Maui at Wailea.

Overlooking Mokapu Beach within the beautiful resort area of Wailea, this relative newcomer (it opened in 2013) features five pools—three cascading, one lagoon-style and one adults only. Four onsite restaurants boast farm-to-table menus, including Ka’ana Kitchen for creative modern Hawaiian fare, Morimoto Maui for Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto’s signature sushi and Japanese dishes, and Lehua Lounge for small bites. And the tranquil Awili Spa features customizable treatments, perfect for couples.

Inn at Mama’s Fish House

A tropical cottage on a quiet beach. Sounds romantic, right? Especially if that cottage is located on the north shore of Maui adjacent to one of the island’s most celebrated seafood restaurants. That’s what you’ll find at the Inn at Mama’s Fish House, where the ultimate Maui honeymoon splurge is a Two-Bedroom Beachfront Cottage.

The dreamy room has just been renovated with contemporary Hawaiian decor and opens to a covered lanai with views of palm trees and a hammock for two backed by white sand and aqua sea. Other romantic options include the One-Bedroom Beachfront Suite or Garden Cottages. And the Inn’s location is ideal for exploring Upcountry (one of the best things to do in Maui) and the historic towns of Makawao and Paia, or checking out the windsurfers on Hookipa Beach.

Sheraton Resort Maui

Sometimes location gives a resort its wow factor, and in the case of the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa it also creates an undeniably romantic vibe. This top hotel in Maui for couples has a retro vibe (it opened in 1963) and boasts the best location on world-famous Kaanapali Beach.

It’s practically built into a dramatic black lava outcropping known as Black Rock and night after night it seduces guests with a mesmerizing sunset ritual: a solo diver leaps from atop the lava into the sea to honor the Hawaiian gods. Black Rock is also known for some of the best snorkeling in Maui.

Yes, the Sheraton is a classic, but its midcentury architecture and 508 rooms are newly renovated, and its 23 beachfront acres feature five restaurants and a 142-yard Lagoon Pool with a Mai Tai Bar that’s the perfect spot to toast to the spectacular sunset, Hawaiian traditions and each other.

Ho’oilo House

For couples who love the quiet intimacy of a bed-and-breakfast stay, this upscale, adults-only B&B set on a hill just outside the historic town of Lahaina—and only about 10-minutes’ drive from popular Kaanapali Beach—is an appealing option, and one of the best places t stay in Maui for couples.

Ho’oilo House has just six rooms, each light-filled and airy and featuring polished wood floors and intricately handcrafted furniture from Bali. They also have dramatic bathrooms with indoor tubs and outdoor showers and access to a swimming pool with panoramic ocean views. A buffet breakfast featuring fresh island fruits and just-baked muffins, pastries and bread is included, and spa treatments can be booked for in-room or on your lanai.

The post Best Hotels in Maui for Couples appeared first on Islands.

But even if you have a penchant for other outdoor pursuits and things to do like hiking and biking, you’ll eventually long to frolic in or sit next to those lapping waves. Though these properties have plenty of other amenities that make them stand out (think golf courses, spas and creative cuisine) it’s their proximity to the Pacific that’s the real draw. Here are the best beach hotels and resorts in Kauai.

Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa

The sprawling pool complex of Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa on Poipu Beach has to be experienced to be believed. Plunge under lava rock waterfalls, float down the lazy river, escape to the adult pool or take a dip in the saltwater lagoon pool with sand and zero entry.

Among the eight restaurants and bars, the thatched-roof bungalows floating over a koi-filled lagoon next to a waterfall at Hawaiian cuisine-focused Tidepools are decidedly the most impressive, while poolside casual Hale Nalu satisfies swimmers with burgers and ahi banh mi. The 45,000-square foot Anara Spa is the largest on Kauai, combining ancient healing rituals with island botanicals in treatment rooms opening to gardens.

Princeville Resort

The water and Makana Mountain beyond form an almost surreal backdrop for Princeville Resort, situated above Hanalei Bay on Kauai’s north shore. Rooms and suites in a contemporary island design come in all kinds of categories and feature marble bathrooms and oversized soaking tubs; some also include private lanais.

The infinity pool is an award-winning architecture wonder, joined by a rock-lined whirlpool and keiki (kids) pool, and the powdery sand in Pu’u Po’a Beach beckons sunbathers, surfing, paddleboarders and kayakers. Halele’a Spa treatments use island botanicals and combine Hawaiian rituals and western techniques, and five dining options await, including a sunset table by the water at Hawaiian steakhouse Kauai Grill. The latter also makes this resort one of the best Kauai hotels for couples.

Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu

Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu on the south shore features the largest luxury villas on the island. One-bedroom accommodations measure more than 800 square feet and feature a separate tub and shower, a lanai and fully-equipped gourmet kitchen. Even the deluxe studio rooms are nearly twice the size of standard hotel rooms on Kauai, equipped with a kitchenette and full-sized washer and dryer.

A new multi-terraced pool oasis tempts with an infinity pool, three waterfalls, a swim-through grotto, wooden bridges, two water slides and three Jacuzzis. Spa treatments balance earth and sea with indigenous mauka (mountain) and makai (ocean) elements, while signature restaurant Holoholo Grill serves elevated Hawaiian comfort food like pork tonkatsu ramen and sticky ribs in collaboration with James Beard award-winning chef Sam Choy.

Kauai Marriott Resort

Golf enthusiasts should opt for Kauai Marriott Resort in Lihue, boasting a Jack Nicklaus signature golf course (the longest in Hawaii) winding past the bay and cliffs. Accommodations flaunt sun- and sand-inspired decor with categories spanning from a garden double room to a one-bedroom corner oceanfront suite with a wrap-around lanai, whirlpool tub and separate living room with a king bed facing the ocean.

The heated oceanfront pool is one of Hawaii’s largest, and the full-service salon and spa even offers the option for a massage in a beach cabana. Five dining concepts serve island-inspired fare, sushi, Italian cuisine, steaks and seafood, and a weekly luau includes dinner and a live show.

Courtyard Kauai at Coconut Beach

Courtyard Kauai at Coconut Beach on Kauai’s east side is named for the growing groves of coconut palms in the area. All rooms have updated contemporary decor, private lanais, refrigerators and fun island accents like wave murals and sea blue rugs.

The pool, whirlpool and beach have ample lounge chairs, hammocks and fire pits, and the Voyager Lanai’s all-day menu offers up mahi mahi fish and chips, tuna poke and slow-roasted pork belly with ginger glaze and Hawaiian slaw. Book a lomi lomi or coffee massage or other purifying treatment at Pua Day Spa; other activities include tennis, basketball, hula, corn hole, bocce, bike rentals, yoga on the beach and a sunrise experience. Bonus: it’s also one of the most affordable hotels in Kauai.

Waipouli Beach Resort & Spa by Outrigger

Because no traveler wants a one-size-fits-all vacation experience, Waipouli Beach Resort & Spa by Outrigger on Kauai’s east side offers different condo configurations; all are distinctly decorated but each has hardwood furnishings, gourmet kitchens and spacious bathrooms. These types of accommodations also make Waipouli a prime Kauai hotel for families.

The 2-acre property has a heated river pool with water slides and a sandy zero-entry, and Waipouli Beach is mere steps away. Oasis on the Beach focuses on local and sustainable ingredients like Makaweli Ranch grass-fed beef, ahi and ono, and the shops, restaurants and entertainment of Coconut MarketPlace are all nearby.

Sheraton Kauai Resort

The low-rise architecture of Sheraton Kauai Resort, located on Poipu Beach on Kauai’s south shore, means that everyone is awarded a view of either the ocean or the gardens, and rooms and suites are decorated in soothing neutral tones with touches of tropical color.

The pool is admittedly relatively small compared to other hotel complexes, but the golden-sand beach just steps away is why this proeprty is one of the best beach resorts in Kauai. RumFire is the signature restaurant with island dishes with global influences like misoyaki butterfish and Hawaiian paella; other dining options include casual Lava’s, a twice-weekly luau and a private beachfront table experience.

Aqua Kauai Beach Resort

Not only is this property one of the best beach resorts in Kauai, 25-acre Aqua Kauai Beach Resort also offers guests several ways to experience Polynesian culture, including a Nukoli’i Sunrise Ceremony, live local music, lei making, hula lessons and an education talk about how Pacific Navigators traveled without modern navigation tools.

Newly renovated plantation-style rooms in neutral tones face the mountains, ocean or gardens. The water complex has two lagoon pools with waterfalls, one regular pool and a sand-bottomed kids’ pool, a waterslide and a hot tub. Three dining concepts pique palates with upscale cuisine or casual fare (treats at the shave ice bar can be spiked with local Koloa Rum.)

The Lodge at Kukui’ula

One-, two- and three-bedroom cottages and four-bedroom villas comprise The Lodge at Kukui’ula, a boutique property on the island’s south shore. All have plantation architecture views of the golf course or ocean, along with a large lanai with a barbecue, a freestanding soaking tub, lava rock outdoor showers, hand-scraped hardwood floors, granite countertops and designer appliances.

The Makai Pool complex is perched above the ocean with an infinity serenity pool with built-in loungers connected to the saltwater lagoon pool below via cascading waterfall. Hi’ilani Spa has meditation gardens and a lap pool for post-treatment relaxation, and you can walk, hike or bike to the 10-acre farm to pick flowers, fruits, herbs or veggies for your kitchen; ingredients are also used at the resort’s hyper-local Umeke Kitchen + Bar.

Ko’a Kea Hotel & Resort at Poipu Beach

Direct beach access and accommodations that are closer to the water than anywhere else on the island are the key draws at Ko’a Kea Hotel & Resort at Poipu Beach on the south shore, one of the best beach resorts in Kauai. Rooms also feature balconies or patios along with marble showers and dual shower heads.

The spa’s design is inspired by Hawaii’s natural landscape, and therapists use indigenous products like Kauai clay nut oils, coffee, sugar and native blooms for stress-reducing and balance-restoring treatments. Make a dinner reservation at Red Salt, a restaurant that celebrates the island’s bounty with cuisine like ahi tartare and vanilla bean-scented mahi mahi. Hoku Watersports has a beach hut where you can rent bikes, beach chairs, umbrellas, snorkels and paddle boards.

The post Best Beach Hotels and Resorts on Kauai appeared first on Islands.

Explore the Waimea Canyon (nicknamed the Grand Canyon of the Pacific), see the rugged mountains of the Napali Coast on a snorkeling trip, spot humpbacks breaching on a whale-watching tour and catch a glimpse of monk seals sunbathing on the sand.

You’ll also find beaches with lifeguards and surf schools, kid-friendly hiking trails, parks and playgrounds — even freely roaming chickens. Now that we’ve convinced you to take your next family vacation to the Garden Isle, here are the best Kauai hotels and resorts for families.

Waipouli Beach Resort & Spa by Outrigger

Waipouli Beach Resort & Spa by Outrigger is a condo-style property located in Lihue near the airport — so your crew won’t have to endure a long car ride after a long flight. Families should opt for a one- or two-bedroom unit (bonus: each has at least two bathrooms) to take advantage of the full kitchen with a convection oven, microwave, refrigerator and dishwasher. Each unit also includes a washer and dryer to keep your swimsuits and beachwear fresh, and the property is within walking distance to grocery stores to stock your kitchen.

Kids will love spending the day in the lazy river pool with water slides and a sandy zero-entry that winds through the 2-acre resort. Nearby, spot Kauai’s resident monk seals hanging out on Waipouli Beach, and browse the shops and restaurants at Coconut Marketplace.

Sheraton Kauai Resort

With a prime location on Poipu Beach, the Sheraton Kauai Resort is an ideal home base to truly appreciate all that is Kauai. Each day the staff offers free introductory surfing and snorkeling lessons on the beach, and complimentary scuba lessons are available in the pool for anyone ages 10 and above.

Nighttime tours during low tide provide an incredible learning opportunity about tide pools and unusual marine life. Kids will also enjoy the weekly luau with dancing, food and storytelling.

Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa

There’s no need for parental guilt when you leave the kiddos at Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa‘s Camp Hyatt, one of the best Kauai resorts for families. Between lei making, hula lessons, shell bracelet making, volcano crafts and parrot talks, they’ll hardly register your absence.

Counselors also supervise playtime in the multilevel pools, laced with lazy rivers, waterfalls, caves and a water slide. When it’s time to retire, opt for a family-friendly suite to have some privacy once the youngsters are asleep.

Princeville Resort

Located on Kauai’s north shore right on Hanalei Bay, the sunsets at Princeville Resort (formerly the St. Regis) are worth the price of admission. The beach is suitable for children, as protection from an offshore reef generally keeps the shallow water calm, except in the winter months.

Kids can spend the day playing at the Keiki Pool, while supervising parents can take in the surrounding views of Makana Mountain and Hanalei Bay. The beachfront resort also features an onsite spa and nearby Princeville Makai Golf Club, so mom and dad can have some “me” time as well.

Kauai Marriott Resort

In addition to family-friendly heated outdoor pool — one of the largest in Hawaii — plus a designated children’s pool for the littles, the Kauai Marriott Resort fronts Kalapaki Beach, one of the best beaches in Kauai. Six restaurants on the grounds should satisfy your pickiest eater, but if not, dozens of locally owned restaurants are within walking distance in Lihue. Another bonus for families: the resort offers a free shuttle from the airport.

Whalers Cove

Whalers Cove is an ideal Kauai resort for families thanks to its one- two- and three-bedroom condo-style accommodations. One-bedroom oceanfront accommodations have an incredible 1,400 square feet of space, with a master bedroom and king-sized bed, living room, dining room and full-sized and fully equipped kitchen. Shopping services will have your kitchen stocked with whatever you like prior to your arrival.

Rent bicycles nearby and explore all the things to do on Kauai‘s sunny south side of the island. Sample Hawaiian-style hot dogs and shave ice at Puka Dog, and spend the day swimming and snorkeling at Poipu Beach Park.

The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas

While The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas is not located directly on the beach, the ocean view from its perch atop a 200-foot cliff more than makes up for it. Plus, a complimentary shuttle transports guests back and forth to Hanalei Bay for beach access.

Accommodations range from studios to two-bedroom villas, and each is furnished with all the comforts of home, making it one of the best Kauai resorts for families — think kitchenettes or fully equipped kitchens, a washer and dryer, and the Westin’s signature Heavenly Bed. Free Wi-Fi, free parking and no resort fee add to the value.

Kids will love their own pool that features a slide and water-spewing turtles (while parents have a choice of three additional pools), plus every Tuesday is family movie night: spread a blanket on the big lawn overlooking the Pacific for a film under the stars.

Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu Beach

The pool at Koloa Landing Resort is something your kids will talk about for a long time. Waterfalls and multiple levels, spray jets and bridges — it’s a vacation in itself.

An activity lawn includes volleyball, soccer and miniature golf. Cribs and high chairs are delivered to your villa at no extra charge. Note that this is not a beachfront property, but the resort has a van that will deliver you to Poipu Beach whenever you like.

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