Whether it’s unforgettable pool experiences, new kids club offerings, robust keiki (children) day programs, or kitchenettes to make travel just a bit easier, our friends at Marriott International have a portfolio of hotels and resorts offering exquisite options on all four major Hawaiian islands.
Travel insights from Marriott International in Hawai’i have put together a collection of 9 of the most family-friendly Hawaiian resorts:
1. Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa
Celebrate the best of Honolulu from Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa, Waikiki Beach. Widely known as the “First Lady of Waikiki,” our historic hotel first opened its doors in 1901 and offers a seamless blend of Victorian elegance and contemporary comfort. Boasting an unbeatable beachfront location, we’re just steps from the immaculate shores of legendary Waikiki Beach and within walking distance of Honolulu’s most beloved shopping, dining and entertainment attractions. For your convenience, we provide three distinct, sophisticated room layouts, each one overflowing with thoughtful amenities. In addition, our hotel features a towering banyan tree, a shimmering outdoor pool, a state-of-the-art fitness center, the only beachfront spa in Waikiki and six on-site bars and restaurants. Host an event with us here in Honolulu to take advantage of stunning outdoor venues and top-quality planning and catering. Allow Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa, Waikiki Beach to raise the bar for beachfront luxury
2. The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort
The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort stretches along its namesake white-sand beach on the Island of Hawaii. The Kohala Coast is known for its world-class shoreline as well as for the cultural and archaeological gems nestled between its centuries-old lava fields. Our resort’s contemporary style contrasts with our lush, manicured gardens and the endless blues of the sky and the ocean. Enjoy our four reimagined dining venues influenced by the island’s bounty. Hit the links on our award-winning 18-hole Hapuna Golf Course designed by Arnold Palmer. Cool off in two swimming pools, including a 6,800-square-foot freeform family pool and an adult-exclusive infinity pool, overlooking Hapuna Beach. Our WestinWorkout Center and Crossfit Studio are complemented by the Hapuna Spa for rejuvenation and relaxation. Our resort boasts more than 85,000 square feet of newly refreshed function space for productive business meetings and inspiring social events. Choose from 249 oversized guest rooms, including 17 suites.
3. Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa
Edging the western coast of Hawaii’s breathtaking Big Island, Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa is a beachfront haven in a stunning travel destination. Find your respite in scenic hotel accommodations with contemporary comforts and signature amenities. Elevate your experience in select suites and resort rooms overlooking beautiful Anaeho’omalu Bay. Ignite your senses with delectable dining at our hotel restaurants, and be sure to attend our Sunset Luau for music, dancing and classic Big Island fare. Hone your golf game at two championship courses or spend the day lounging on an immaculate white-sand beach. Host flawless meetings, weddings and social affairs in inspiring event space with custom catering and expert planners. After a full day in Hawaii, refresh your well-being with massage, beauty and wellness therapies at our hotel spa. With three sparkling outdoor pools, a waterslide and covered beachfront location, Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa is an island oasis on the lovely Big Island of Hawaii.
4. Sheraton Kauai Resort at Poipu Beach
Aloha from Sheraton Kauai Resort, a welcoming hotel oasis nestled on the shores of Hawaii’s world-famous Poipu Beach. From this enviable vantage point, our hotel offers guests intimate access to the Garden Island’s endless charms—from spectacular beaches, lush rainforests to world-class golf courses. Relax in our newly-renovated guest rooms and suites, where either sparkling oceanfront or lush garden views await. Spend your days soaking in the sun on Poipu Beach or relaxing in a shaded cabana next to our Ocean Pool. Dine at our array of authentic eateries, serving fresh Hawaiian fare in a tropical setting; RumFire Poipu Beach is our signature restaurant boasting spectacular sunset views. Showcasing an array of indoor and outdoor event venues, our hotel is also a brilliant location for a corporate retreat, wedding or family reunion in Kauai. Whatever brings you to Hawaii, our golden-sand beaches and misty sea breezes ensure you’ll never want to leave. We look forward to hosting you at Sheraton Kauai Resort.
5. Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa at Keauhou Bay
With an unparalleled location on the iconic lava rocks of Hawaii’s Kona Coast, Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa at Keauhou Bay offers a captivating blend of adventure, culture, heritage and hospitality for your trip to Kailua-Kona. Our hotel overlooks Kailua-Kona’s manta ray coastal feeding grounds and offers access to Kona Coffee farms, snorkeling in Kealakekua Bay and Volcanoes National Park. Embrace Kona life in our hotel pool, pamper yourself at Ho’ola Spa or try traditional Hawaiian activities like snorkeling, cultural tours and hula lessons. Bask in the Kona sunshine at our poolside resort bar, sample fusion cuisine at Rays on the Bay or enjoy history and entertainment at Haleo Luau. Explore our adaptable indoor venues, as well as 100,000 square feet of outdoor space with awe-inspiring views. Unwind in expansive hotel rooms and suites with private lanais and the Sheraton Signature Sleep Experience. Find your own slice of paradise in Hawaii at Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa at Keauhou Bay.
6. Sheraton Princess Kaiulani
Sheraton Princess Kaiulani invites you to experience the Aloha spirit at our hotel in the heart of Honolulu, Hawaii. Our inviting hotel is situated one block from Oahu’s famous Waikiki Beach and within walking distance of some of the area’s best shopping, dining and entertainment. Hotel guests have proximity to attractions like Diamond Head, Hawaii Convention Center, the Aloha Tower and Honolulu Zoo. Well-appointed hotel rooms and suites include Wi-Fi (for a fee), mini-refrigerators, private lanais and our Sheraton Signature Sleep Experience with premium linens. Those planning events on Oahu can explore our hotel’s modern venues, which can host as many as 500 guests. Whatever your reason for visiting Hawaii, we know you’re going to love your stay at Sheraton Princess Kaiulani.
7. Residence Inn Maui Wailea
Find your home away from home at Residence Inn Maui Wailea, a modern all-suite hotel in near Wailea’s world class golf courses, Wailea Blue Golf Course, Kihei Town, Ulua and Wailea Beach. With our complimentary shuttle service in the Wailea Resort Area, our extended-stay hotel makes it easy to access all the best local dining and shopping at The Shops at Wailea. Enjoy your time in Maui by relaxing with a hotel breakfast buffet in the morning. Our hotel bar offers curated cocktails and scenic views of the Pacific. For your comfort, our pet-friendly suites feature ocean-inspired designs and plush beds. Upgrade to a spacious two-bedroom suite to ensure ample space for the whole family. After a day spent exploring, prepare a homemade meal in your suite, complete with a refrigerator, microwave and stovetop, or opt for the convenience of complimentary grocery shopping services. Whatever it is that brings you to Maui, make the most of your travels by booking a stay with Residence Inn Maui Wailea.
8. Courtyard Maui Kahului Airport
Providing modern convenience in a soothing setting, Courtyard Maui Kahului Airport will elevate your island getaway. With our free shuttle service to and from Kahului Airport, you can expect effortless travels. Ignite your next Maui adventure at premier attractions such as Kanaha Pond State Wildlife Sanctuary, Lahaina Front Street and Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm. After soaking up the Hawaiian sun, gather in the comforts of our hotel rooms and seamlessly transition between work and play with our flat-panel TVs and ergonomic workstations. To satisfy you cravings, visit The Bistro for energizing breakfast options, along with tempting dishes and handcrafted cocktails for dinner. Committing to healthy habits? Burn off some calories at our 24-hour fitness center or outdoor pool. If you’re hosting an event, enliven conferences and celebrations alike with our AV equipment and catering options. Whether you’re conducting business, or exploring the beautiful area, revel in relaxation at Courtyard Maui Kahului Airport.
9. Courtyard Waikiki Beach
Stay, play and explore everything we have to offer at Courtyard Waikiki Beach. Located in the heart of Waikiki in Honolulu, HI, our hotel is a short walk from Waikiki Beach and several top local attractions, including the Honolulu Zoo. In addition, find many leisure activities nearby, like golfing, surfing, biking and hiking, then return to our hotel where we offer a 24-hour, state-of-the-art fitness center, a calming spa with a variety of treatments and two refreshing outdoor pools. After a busy day in Honolulu, stop by our hotel’s authentic Italian restaurant serving freshly prepared cuisine and signature cocktails. If you want to host your wedding in Waikiki, take advantage of our group booking offers and special hotel room rates. Additional hotel amenities include valet parking, on-site laundry and car rentals. At the end of the day, retire to a contemporary, newly refurbished hotel room or suite with free Wi-Fi, an outdoor balcony and modern media offerings. Make us your tropical oasis in Honolulu.
It will be hard to choose which of the six islands of Hawaii to visit as you can see from our series on the Hawaiian Islands. This state hosts so many wonderful wonders from breathtaking waterfalls, volcanoes, tropical delights, ocean greatness fit for watching sea life, snorkeling and surfing. It is a destination within reach. No need for passports, great weather throughout the year and plenty to do! It is a destination for families, honeymoons and romance.
So if you are like me, Hawaii is a bucket list destination for you and how are you going to plan for such a trip. You may want to visit all the islands or atleast many of them to get the full experience. Afterall, it may be your only visit to Hawaii right? Although after you visit you this may be your go to destination! As with any vacation, planning is key. You will need to plan your time off, set your budget and make a list of your must do’s. Many visitors to Hawaii set aside 7-14 days depending on how much they want to see. Your budget will need to be a healthy one as you can only arrive by land or sea. Airfare ranges between $880 – $1500 and fluctuates often. Resort costs are fairly typical, but as with any travel to islands food can be a little higher than you are used to at home.
One cost effective way to travel to Hawaii is via cruise. I say cost effective because your vacation is pretty much paid for before you leave home since your food is included in your cruise package. One of my favorite ships to sail is the Pride of America on Norwegian Cruise line. Recently renovated, the Pride of America has been sailing to Hawaii for many years. It has recently been voted the best Hawaii Itinerary. With a variety of Itineraries, you can hit most of the highlights. You can choose packages that include pre cruise land stay or just cruise only.
Nicknamed “The Big Island” the island of Hawaii is the youngest and the largest of all the islands. Host to the Hawaii Volcanoes National park, you will find molten magma flowing as well as snow-capped heights of Maunakea. Many of the world’s climate zones can be experienced on the Big Island. The Island of Hawaii has 6 regions, Hamakua Coast, Hilo, Puna, Kau, Kona and Kohala. There is certainly plenty to explore and do!
The Hilo region is a perfect mix of open markets, shopping, gardens, and beautiful state parks.
Looking for some Lava? The region of Puna just south of Hilo in the town of Pahoa you can experience the designs of Pele, the volcano goddess who continually creates and recreates the land. This area features, black-sand beaches and lava features as well as more natural wonders forged by the power of volcanos. What could be more relaxing that to experience one of Puna’s coastal geothermal baths heated below the earth by Kilauea’s steam. A don’t miss spot on Puna is Lava Trees State Park. in the 1700’s, lava flow swept through the areac coating the trunks of ohia trees leaving tall lava molds of the tree trunks in their wake, frozen in time.
The West side of the island is Kona. If you are a coffee lover, Kona has some of the best coffee as it hosts many coffee farms. Kona’s calm and clear waters make it perfect for snorkeling, diving, sailing and spotting dolphins and honu ( Hawaiian green sea turtles). During the month of August, Kona hosts the International Billfish Tournament. Located in south Kona, is Honaunau Bay where there is a 180 acre national historic park.
This historic park was once the home of royal grounds and a place of refuge for ancient Hawaiian lawbreakers. Kapu, or sacred laws, were of utmost importance to Hawaiian culture and the breaking of kapu had its consequences, including death. If one were to break kapu, their only chance for survival was to evade his pursuers and make it to a puuhonua, or a sacred place of refuge. Once there, a ceremony of absolution would take place and the one who broke kapu would be able to return to society. Puuhonua o Hanaunau remains one of the most sacred historic places. Visit the Historic Kailua Village and Hulihee Palace where you will be transported back to the days of Hawaiian monarchy.
Finally, Kohala. This is the area of some of the best resorts and as you travel this area you will find amazing lava fields. In north Kohala, there is a small town called Kapaau. Her stands the original King Kamehameha I Statue which is not far from where the famous King was born. Historians believe he was born in 1758, the year Halley’s Comet passed over Hawaii. Kamehameha stands for The Lonely One. His story is amazing so you will have to visit to receive the full appreciation of this amazing sense of history. Pololu Valley Lookout and Hapuna Beach offer breathtaking views and amazing beaches.
Molokai, known as the Friendly Isle, is the 5th largest Island and home to the longest continuous fringing reef, at 28 miles long. This is a perfect place for scuba diving and snorkeling where you will see natural “finger” coral. The adventure traveler will love this island as it is absent of attractions and commercial activity.
Beaches on Molokai are beautiful but not necessarily the best place for swimming. Despite their wonderful views, the current can be strong and most beaches do not have lifeguards. The beaches welcome picnics which can provide for a great afternoon.
Lanai is just 9 short miles away from Maui, but don’t let that fool you as Lanai has its own charm and personality and happens to be the smallest of the Hawaiian Islands. If you are one of those travelers that likes a little bit of being away from it all, here is where you want to be. There are no stoplights and only two hotels.
There are some great activities besides golfing visitors can do on Lanai. You can visit the Lanai Adventure Center near- by the Four Seasons Hotel where you can explore. Guided UTV tours are available as well as horseback riding. At the Lanai Ocean Sports you can depart from Manele Small Boat Harbor and snorkel, whale watch, watch the sunset and dive. This makes for a great activity day if you are going to even just spend the day at Lanai.
Beaches, and dining are not forgotten on this tiny island. You will find the local mom and pop shops as well as your luxury dining at the resorts. Polihua Beach is very secluded and off the beaten path on the North Shore. From this advantage point you can see Diamond Head on Oahu island. Hulopoe Bay is named on of America’s best beaches. This is perfect for beach goers as you have a picnic area with grills and restrooms with showers.
Maui is Hawaii’s second largest island. I don’t think any traveler has not had Maui on their bucket list. We often hear of its beautiful beaches, watching the sunrise from Haleakala, wonderful food, and amazing scenery. Maui has 5 distinct regions, Central Maui, East Maui, South Maui, West Maui and the Upcountry.
Grab your surfboard and head to west Maui, Honolua Bay! During the winter is the best time to find those big and powerful waves. This is for the pros – but exciting to watch from the bluffs above the bay. If you are not a pro and want to take advantage of learning how to surf or do some diving, you can come in the summer months when things are a big calmer.
Winding out your stay on Maui, you may want to hit the golf course in Wailea. This amazing luxury resort area is located in the sunniest area of Maui and spans over 1,500 acres of land.
There are 5 regions to the island of Kauai. It is one of the oldest and northmost island in Hawaii. This island is known for tropical rainforest, wonderful cliffs and rivers with amazing waterfalls. If you want to have more of an adventurous vacation you will not want to miss the many outdoor activites Kauai has to offer. There are trails in Kokee State Park, kayaking on Wailua river and dive into the ocean for great snorkeling on Poipu Beach. The average temp year round is 69-84 degrees and the water temp is 71-81 degrees, so it is comfortable year round.
Lihue is where you will land at the Lihue airport when you venture to explore Kauai. It is the main commercial center of the island featuring culture and history. Kilohana, is a historic plantation estate and hosts a famous iconic luau. There is also a 100 acre sugar plantation founded in 1864. Tours are available by reservation Monday, Wednesday and Thursday and last 2 hours.
There are six islands that make up this wonderful state and each island has its own personality and desired experience. Besides the wonderful year round weather, tropical yumminess, Hawaii is full of wonderful places to visit.
If you are more adventurous, the North Shore will transport you into the world of the surfer. You will want to go between November and February for the big waves, but don’t plan on riding those as they should be left for the professionals! During the rest of the year you will see a more calm ocean. Haliewi is a perfect little surfing town where you can shop, eat and enjoy! Not far down the road you can visit the Polynesian Cultural Center and the old plantation town of Kahuku.