An Island-by-Island Guide to Hawaii’s Most Exceptional Hotels

Featuring standout luxury hotels across Big Island, Maui, Oahu, Kauai, and Lanai.

Hawaii unfolds as a collection of deeply individual destinations, each shaped by its landscapes, traditions, and pace of life. Where you choose to stay becomes an essential part of the journey, influencing how the experience unfolds from start to finish. This island-by-island guide highlights Hawaii’s most exceptional hotels—properties defined not just by their setting, but by thoughtful design, intuitive service, and a genuine sense of place. Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, a restorative retreat, or a long-anticipated escape, these are the stays that elevate a Hawaiian experience.

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The Big Island

Photo: Courtesy of Four Seasons Resort Hualalai

1. Four Seasons Resort Hualalai - Big Island Hawaii

Set along the rugged Kona-Kohala Coast, Four Seasons Resort Hualālai is widely regarded as one of the finest resorts in Hawaii—and for good reason. Designed to feel like a refined seaside village rather than a traditional mega-resort, the property blends seamlessly into its lava-rock landscape, with low-slung bungalows, koi ponds, and palm-lined pathways that echo the spirit of the island. Since opening in the mid-1990s, Hualālai has become a perennial favorite among discerning travelers and celebrities alike, often appearing on “best hotel” lists from Forbes and Condé Nast.

Accommodations are spread across intimate buildings, offering a sense of privacy and calm. Rooms and suites feature natural wood finishes, deep soaking tubs, private lanais, and views of lush gardens or the Pacific beyond. The design feels timeless rather than trendy—luxurious, comfortable, and deeply connected to place.

What truly sets Hualālai apart is the experience. Seven distinct pools, including a lava-rock-lined adults pool and a swimmable aquarium filled with tropical fish, create a sense of discovery throughout the property. World-class golf, thoughtful cultural programming, and exceptional dining elevate the stay, while the service remains warm, intuitive, and personal. At Hualālai, luxury feels effortless—rooted in nature, tradition, and a quietly impeccable standard that keeps guests returning year after year.

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Photo: Courtesy of Kona Village

2. Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort - Big Island Hawaii

Reborn with quiet confidence on the Big Island’s storied Kona Coast, Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort is a soulful return to one of Hawaii’s most beloved hideaways. Originally opened in the 1960s and thoughtfully revived by Rosewood, the resort honors its legacy while introducing a refined, deeply intentional approach to luxury. Set across a pristine stretch of lava-rock shoreline, Kona Village feels intentionally removed from modern excess—rooted instead in culture, craftsmanship, and a profound sense of place.

Accommodations are standalone hale (bungalows), each designed to feel like a private sanctuary. Thatch-style roofs, natural materials, outdoor showers, and expansive lanais create a seamless indoor-outdoor rhythm, while interiors remain quietly elevated and uncluttered. There are no televisions in the rooms—by design—encouraging guests to slow down and reconnect with their surroundings.

Experiences at Kona Village are immersive and elemental. Days unfold between ocean swims, cultural programming, spa rituals inspired by Hawaiian healing traditions, and dining that highlights local ingredients and open-fire cooking. The atmosphere is serene yet deeply alive, attracting travelers who value authenticity over spectacle. More than a resort, Kona Village is a philosophy—one that celebrates simplicity, heritage, and the enduring luxury of being truly present.

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Maui

Photo: Courtesy of Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Resort

3. Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort - Maui

Set along the golden sands of Wailea Beach, Grand Wailea is one of Maui’s most iconic resorts—an exuberant blend of island grandeur, playful indulgence, and unmistakable sense of scale. Originally opened in the early 1990s and now part of the Waldorf Astoria collection, the resort has undergone thoughtful renovations that preserve its theatrical spirit while refining the experience for a modern luxury traveler. Think cascading staircases, museum-worthy art installations, and lush tropical grounds that feel intentionally over-the-top—in the best possible way.

The accommodations range from well-appointed guest rooms to expansive suites, many with sweeping ocean views, private lanais, and marble-clad bathrooms designed for post-beach unwinding. Rooms lean classic rather than minimalist, offering comfort, space, and a sense of occasion that suits the resort’s larger-than-life personality.

Grand Wailea is best known for its legendary pool complex—nine pools, waterfalls, grottos, and one of Hawaii’s longest resort water slides—making it a favorite for multigenerational trips and celebratory stays. Dining spans from refined island cuisine to relaxed beachfront fare, while the on-site spa, one of the largest in Hawaii, remains a destination in its own right. Equal parts nostalgic and indulgent, Grand Wailea delivers a Maui stay that feels joyful, iconic, and unapologetically grand.

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Photo: Courtesy of Four Seasons Maui

4. Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea - Maui

Set along Wailea Beach, Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea is a masterclass in polished, timeless luxury—one that has long set the standard for five-star hospitality in Hawaii. The resort’s grand, open-air design frames sweeping ocean views throughout the property, creating an immediate sense of arrival that feels both impressive and effortlessly welcoming. Consistently recognized by Forbes Travel Guide and Condé Nast Traveler, it remains one of Maui’s most celebrated stays.

Rooms and suites are spacious and elegantly appointed, with private lanais, marble bathrooms, and thoughtful details designed for comfort and ease. Many offer uninterrupted views of the Pacific, where mornings begin with soft light over the water and evenings end with Maui’s signature sunsets. The aesthetic is classic and refined, favoring longevity over trend.

Service is where Four Seasons Maui truly shines—warm, intuitive, and deeply attentive without ever feeling intrusive. Guests spend their days between serene adults-only pools, family-friendly spaces, the spa, and direct beach access, while dining options range from elevated Hawaiian-inspired cuisine to refined poolside fare. Ideal for honeymoons, celebrations, and return visitors alike, Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea delivers a consistently flawless experience that feels as special on a first visit as it does on the fifth.

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Photo: Courtesy of Montage Kapalua Bay

5. Montage Kapalua Bay - Maui

Set along the crescent-shaped sands of Kapalua Bay, Montage Kapalua Bay offers a more residential, quietly luxurious take on Maui resort living. Located on the island’s lush northwest coast, the property feels intentionally removed from the busier energy of Wailea, appealing to travelers who value space, privacy, and a slower pace. With its low-rise design and sweeping ocean views, Montage blends seamlessly into Kapalua’s natural beauty.

Accommodations are all-suite, ranging from expansive one-bedroom layouts to multi-bedroom residences ideal for longer stays and family travel. Each suite features full kitchens, large living areas, deep soaking tubs, and generous lanais designed for indoor-outdoor living. The interiors are refined yet relaxed, combining contemporary finishes with warm island textures that feel elevated but livable.

The experience at Montage Kapalua Bay centers on ease and immersion. Guests can snorkel directly from the bay, explore nearby coastal trails and championship golf courses, or unwind at the serene spa overlooking the Pacific. Dining emphasizes locally sourced ingredients and thoughtful execution, while the service remains attentive without feeling formal. Ideal for travelers seeking understated luxury and space to truly settle in, Montage Kapalua Bay delivers a Maui stay that feels both effortless and enduring.

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Photo: Courtesy of Fairmont Kea Lani

6. Fairmont Kea Lani - Maui

Located along Polo Beach in Wailea, Fairmont Kea Lani stands out as Maui’s only all-suite and villa oceanfront resort, offering a spacious, family-friendly approach to luxury that doesn’t compromise on refinement. With its bright, open architecture and breezy Mediterranean-inspired design, the resort feels welcoming and relaxed while still delivering the level of service and consistency Fairmont is known for.

Suites are generously sized and designed with comfort in mind, featuring separate living areas, private lanais, marble bathrooms, and soft coastal tones. For travelers seeking more privacy, the resort’s villas provide multi-bedroom layouts, full kitchens, private plunge pools, and dedicated concierge service—ideal for extended stays or multigenerational travel.

The experience at Fairmont Kea Lani is centered around ease and versatility. Multiple pools, direct beach access, and a range of dining options make it well-suited for both relaxed getaways and active days in the sun. The spa offers restorative treatments inspired by Hawaiian traditions, while the overall atmosphere remains polished yet approachable. For those seeking space, comfort, and oceanfront luxury in Wailea, Fairmont Kea Lani delivers a stay that feels effortlessly accommodating.

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Photo: Courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton Maui

7. The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua - Maui

Set within the lush, rolling landscape of Kapalua on Maui’s northwest coast, The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua offers a refined, nature-forward take on island luxury. Surrounded by championship golf courses, coastal trails, and some of the island’s most dramatic scenery, the resort feels tranquil and expansive, appealing to travelers who prefer a quieter, more immersive Maui experience.

Rooms and suites are thoughtfully designed with a warm, contemporary aesthetic, featuring private lanais, marble bathrooms, and views that look out toward gardens, fairways, or the Pacific. The atmosphere is relaxed yet polished, balancing Ritz-Carlton’s signature service with the laid-back rhythm of Kapalua.

Experiences here are deeply connected to the outdoors. Guests can explore nearby beaches, hike the famed Kapalua Coastal Trail, or unwind at the spa, which draws inspiration from Hawaiian healing traditions. Dining highlights locally sourced ingredients and island flavors, while the service remains attentive and understated. Ideal for couples, golfers, and travelers seeking serenity over spectacle, The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua delivers a composed, quietly luxurious way to experience Maui’s north shore.

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Photo: Courtesy of Andaz Maui

8. Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort, by Hyatt - Maui

Modern, design-forward, and distinctly social, Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort brings a contemporary edge to Wailea’s luxury hotel scene. Set along Mokapu Beach, the resort favors clean lines, curated art, and an atmosphere that feels effortlessly stylish without taking itself too seriously—making it especially appealing to design-minded travelers and couples.

Rooms and suites are sleek and thoughtfully appointed, with minimalist interiors, custom furnishings, and private lanais that frame garden or ocean views. The aesthetic is intentionally pared back, allowing the setting and natural light to shine, while modern amenities ensure a comfortable, seamless stay.

The experience at Andaz Maui centers on its vibrant pool scene, which cascades toward the ocean and encourages lingering afternoons and golden-hour gatherings. Dining highlights locally inspired cuisine with a creative twist, while the spa offers a quieter counterbalance rooted in Hawaiian healing traditions. Equal parts relaxed and refined, Andaz Maui at Wailea delivers a stay that feels current, stylish, and unmistakably Maui.

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Oahu

Photo: Courtesy of Ritz-Carlton Oahu

9. The Ritz-Carlton Oahu, Turtle Bay -

Perched on Oʻahu’s untamed North Shore, The Ritz-Carlton Oʻahu, Turtle Bay offers a striking contrast to the island’s more polished resort enclaves—trading high-rise energy for raw coastline, rolling waves, and a sense of seclusion that feels worlds away from Waikīkī. Originally opened in the 1970s and thoughtfully reimagined under the Ritz-Carlton flag, the resort is set on nearly 1,300 acres of protected land, with panoramic ocean views stretching in every direction.

Guest rooms and suites are designed to bring the outdoors in, with floor-to-ceiling windows, private lanais, and a palette inspired by sand, sea, and sky. Many accommodations offer unobstructed ocean views, allowing guests to wake to the sound of crashing waves and golden North Shore light. The aesthetic is relaxed yet refined—coastal luxury without excess.

Experiences here are rooted in place. From surfing legendary breaks and horseback riding along the shoreline to golfing beside the Pacific and exploring nearby hiking trails, Turtle Bay embraces Oʻahu’s adventurous side. Dining highlights locally sourced ingredients and island flavors, while the oceanfront pools and spa provide a slower, restorative counterbalance. For travelers seeking a more elemental, immersive take on luxury in Hawaii, The Ritz-Carlton Oʻahu, Turtle Bay feels both grounding and unforgettable.

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Photo: Courtesy of Four Seasons Oahu

10. Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina - Oahu

Set along the calm, crescent-shaped lagoons of Ko Olina on Oʻahu’s western coast, Four Seasons Resort Oʻahu at Ko Olina delivers the brand’s signature polish in a setting designed for ease and escape. The resort occupies a prime stretch of coastline known for its tranquil waters and golden sunsets, offering a more relaxed alternative to Waikīkī while remaining easily accessible from Honolulu International Airport.

Rooms and suites are refined and contemporary, with private lanais, neutral island-inspired tones, and views that span manicured gardens, turquoise lagoons, and the open Pacific. The design is clean and understated, allowing the scenery to take center stage while ensuring the comfort and consistency Four Seasons is known for.

The experience here is effortlessly balanced—equal parts relaxation and recreation. Guests can spend days poolside or at the swimmable lagoons, unwind at the spa, or explore Ko Olina’s coastal paths and nearby golf courses. Dining ranges from elevated island cuisine to relaxed beachfront settings, all delivered with warm, attentive service. Ideal for families, couples, and milestone celebrations alike, Four Seasons Resort Oʻahu at Ko Olina offers a refined, seamless way to experience Oʻahu’s quieter side without sacrificing luxury.

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Photo: Courtesy of ESPACIO The Jewel of Waikiki

11. ESPACIO The Jewel of Waikiki - Oahu

Discrete, ultra-exclusive, and impeccably polished, ESPACIO The Jewel of Waikīkī redefines luxury in the heart of Oʻahu’s most iconic neighborhood. With just nine full-floor suites, this intimate oceanfront property feels more like a private residence than a traditional hotel—offering a level of privacy and personalization rarely found in Waikīkī.

Each suite occupies an entire floor and is designed with contemporary elegance in mind, featuring expansive living spaces, private lanais with ocean views, Italian marble bathrooms, and in-suite saunas. The interiors are sleek and refined, balancing modern design with thoughtful amenities that elevate everyday comfort. Service is deeply personalized, with dedicated butlers and a level of attention that feels tailored rather than formal.

Despite its central location, ESPACIO maintains a serene, residential atmosphere. Guests enjoy exclusive access to a rooftop infinity pool, private beach experiences, and curated dining options designed to feel bespoke. Ideal for travelers who want the energy of Waikīkī without sacrificing privacy or discretion, ESPACIO The Jewel of Waikīkī delivers a rare blend of urban sophistication and beachfront exclusivity.

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Kauai

Photo: Courtesy of 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay

12. 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay - Kauai

Overlooking the crescent-shaped shoreline of Hanalei Bay, 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay offers a serene, nature-forward take on luxury that feels deeply rooted in Kauaʻi’s dramatic north shore. Formerly the St. Regis Princeville, the property was thoughtfully reimagined under the 1 Hotels brand, blending elevated design with a strong commitment to sustainability and cultural respect. The result is a resort that feels intentionally calm, restorative, and in harmony with its surroundings.

Rooms and suites are airy and understated, designed with natural materials, soft textures, and expansive windows that frame lush mountains, waterfalls, or the Pacific beyond. Many feature private lanais, deep soaking tubs, and subtle eco-conscious details that enhance comfort without feeling performative. The aesthetic is relaxed and modern, allowing Kauaʻi’s landscape to remain the true focal point.

Experiences at 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay center on wellness, nature, and place. Guests can explore nearby beaches, hiking trails, and waterfalls, or stay on property for oceanfront pools, spa treatments, and thoughtfully curated dining that emphasizes local ingredients. Less about spectacle and more about connection, this is a stay for travelers seeking quiet luxury—where the rhythm of the island sets the tone, and the experience feels both intentional and effortlessly refined.

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Photo: Courtesy of Timbers Kauai

13. Timbers Kauai, Ocean Club & Residences - Kauai

Set along the sun-drenched coastline of Līhuʻe, Timbers Kauaʻi, Ocean Club & Residences offers a modern, residential-style take on luxury that feels both polished and refreshingly relaxed. Designed for longer stays and repeat visitors, the resort blends the ease of a private residence with the elevated service of a high-end hotel, all framed by sweeping views of the Pacific.

Accommodations are spacious and thoughtfully designed, ranging from one- to four-bedroom residences with full kitchens, expansive living areas, and oversized lanais made for indoor-outdoor living. Interiors are contemporary and warm, with natural wood finishes, clean lines, and floor-to-ceiling windows that invite Kauaʻi’s light and landscape inside. The atmosphere feels refined yet livable—ideal for families, groups, or travelers seeking space without sacrificing style.

The experience at Timbers Kauaʻi is centered on flexibility and connection to place. Guests enjoy access to an oceanfront pool, wellness offerings, and dining that highlights locally sourced ingredients, while the surrounding area provides easy access to beaches, hiking trails, and island adventures. With its residential focus and effortless sense of comfort, Timbers Kauaʻi delivers a Kauaʻi stay that feels grounded, elevated, and distinctly its own.

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Lanai

Photo: Courtesy of Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort

14. Four Seasons Resort Lanai - Lanai

Tucked away on the secluded island of Lānaʻi, Four Seasons Resort Lānaʻi offers one of Hawaii’s most exclusive and transportive resort experiences. With limited development across the island and a strong sense of privacy throughout the property, the resort feels worlds away from the busier rhythms of Maui and Oʻahu, appealing to travelers seeking true escape.

Rooms and suites are elegant and serene, designed with soft island tones, natural materials, and private lanais overlooking the ocean or manicured gardens. The atmosphere is understated yet impeccably finished, allowing the setting—golden beaches, rugged cliffs, and open sea—to remain the focal point.

Experiences on Lānaʻi are intentionally curated and deeply immersive. Guests can explore the island’s red-dirt trails, snorkel off Hulopoʻe Bay, unwind at the spa, or enjoy world-class dining that highlights seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. With attentive, personalized service and a sense of calm that’s increasingly rare, Four Seasons Resort Lānaʻi delivers a refined retreat where luxury feels quiet, considered, and entirely unhurried.

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Photo: Courtesy of Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort

15. Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort - Lanai

Set inland among lush gardens and rolling hills, Sensei Lānaʻi, A Four Seasons Resort offers a markedly different experience from its sister property, Four Seasons Resort Lānaʻi at Hulopoʻe Bay. Designed as a dedicated wellness retreat, Sensei trades beachfront energy for tranquility, structure, and intentional living—appealing to travelers focused on restoration rather than resort-style leisure.

Accommodations are serene and minimalist, with Japanese-inspired design, floor-to-ceiling windows, private lanais, and deep soaking tubs. The aesthetic is deliberately restrained, encouraging stillness and reflection, while maintaining the refined comfort expected of Four Seasons. Unlike the oceanfront resort, Sensei is adults-oriented and emphasizes privacy, quiet, and balance throughout the property.

The experience here centers on guided wellness programming, including personalized fitness consultations, spa therapies, nutrition-focused dining, and nature-based activities such as forest bathing and meditation. While guests can access Hulopoʻe Bay for beach time if desired, Sensei stands firmly on its own as a purpose-driven retreat. Where Four Seasons Resort Lānaʻi offers classic island luxury and oceanfront indulgence, Sensei Lānaʻi delivers a deeply intentional escape—one rooted in wellness, mindfulness, and thoughtful transformation.

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