The 9 Best Family-Friendly Resorts in Hawaii for a Spectacular Island Stay

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Hawaii has the best of everything: rich island culture, pristine beaches, natural attractions and plenty of luxurious accommodations to choose from. Not sure which fancy resort to choose for your family vacation? 'A'ole pilikia. (That means ‘no problem’ in Hawaiian.) I rounded up the best family-friendly resorts in Hawaii, featuring Disney-themed experiences, entire villages on the Big Island, swanky oceanfront escapes and tranquil nature retreats that won’t break the bank. Read on and start planning your perfect getaway.

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A Guide to the 8 Best Hotels in Wailea, Maui for Every Type of Traveler

1. Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort

Hilton

I had the pleasure of staying at this sprawling resort with my husband last summer and every aspect of our experience was perfect. We stayed in a spotless room with gorgeous ocean views in the rainbow tower—one of several towers that surround a gorgeous main lobby that leads directly to the pristine and generously-sized beach. If you wander down a pathway off the beach front and between the towers, you’ll encounter a bustling village replete with restaurants and shops of every description. If you like seafood you absolutely must eat at Blue Water Shrimp & Seafood. My husband and I never tried the pools because we’re beach people, but glowing reviews suggest that they’re pretty awesome and by all accounts, mine included, this place is the perfect spot for a family vacation—namely because there’s SO much to do and see.

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2. Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa

Eric Broder Van Dyke/Getty Images

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When it comes to family-friendly resorts, Disney knows how to do it right—and Aulani is no exception. Located on the island of Oahu, this stellar property boasts an abundance of kid-friendly attractions, including waterslides, pools, themed rooms and amusement park-like attractions—like the opportunity to take a picture with Mickey Mouse, for example. My favorite thing about this resort is that the rooms have kitchenettes (and microwaves!) which means you can save a ton of money on food while you’re there by reheating leftovers or even cooking up your own simple meals rather than dining out. Other than that, reviews suggest that the service and accommodations are great and the lagoon beach is beautiful. The only con is that the crowds are considerable, so if you’re looking for a low-key stay this might not be for you.

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3. The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua

The Ritz-Carlton Maui

This resort on the island of Maui gets high marks for luxury accommodations, abundant amenities and highly attentive service. It’s also surrounded by nature preserves and marine sanctuaries, and is located within walking distance of some of the island’s best hiking trails, including Dragon’s Tooth and the beautiful coastal trail. In other words, if you’re a nature lover looking for a peaceful, family-friendly stay, this is the resort for you. But don’t take my word for it, just check out the many five-star reviews, like the one that describes the property as “expansive and gorgeous” and the experience as “great, different and relaxing.”

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4. The Ritz-Carlton O’ahu, Turtle Bay

The Ritz-Carlton O’ahu

Here, another bespoke Ritz-Carlton resort that offers guests a truly magical oceanfront stay in Oahu, complete with numerous activities that emphasize Hawaiian culture and connection with nature. As for a standout review, this one says it all:

“We were there with my daughter, son-in-law and two grandchildren. You guessed it, there are so many things to do for everyone. Golf, horseback riding and many other things are so close and only a very quick golf cart ride away. Very, very convenient. Lei making, snorkeling and surfing is available at the resort. Lots of carefully selected Hawaiian culture was everywhere. Club room was special. Awesome food, drinks and views. As a person who has visited all the Hawaiian Islands over 42 years this is one of those rare places that has it all.”

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5. Wailea Beach Resort Maui

Wailea Beach Resort

Make yourself at home in one of the spacious, well-appointed suites at this Maui resort and you’ll enjoy top-notch service, lively entertainment, numerous activities and several different pool options, both family-friendly and adults-only. There are also very kid-friendly features, like an outdoor playground and waterslides, that will thrill the younger ones in your brood. That said, the reviews suggest that rooms really run the gamut, with some being spectacular and others substandard. With that in mind, I suggest you follow the advice in Alexandra C.’s review when booking, which reads, “The rooms are spacious, clean and depending on which suite you book, the room will have a gorgeous view. We can confirm the views from Hale 2 and Hale 4 are amazing.”

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6. OUTRIGGER Reef Waikiki Beach

OUTRIGGER

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If I ever return to Waikiki and want to try something new, this is hands down where I would stay—namely because the price is so appealing and the reviews are so impressive. (Seriously, it’s one perfect five star after another.) Highlights of the property include live Hawaiian music, family-friendly cultural experiences and activities, plus a gorgeous beach and rooms with spectacular views. Oh, and numerous happy guests rave about the friendly service, too. (“Friendliest staff we’ve come across at a hotel in a long time,” “their service is on top. The staff are very friendly and welcoming,” etc.)

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7. Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu, Autograph Collection

Koloa Landing Resort

If you’re planning a visit to the island of Kauai, consider this swanky south shore resort in the heart of Poipu. The property is one of the largest accommodations on the island with an impressive 25-acres of lush foliage and a seriously impressive 350,000 gallon pool with waterslides, swim and walk-through grottos and plenty of poolside cabanas. (“Main pool is one of the best pools I’ve ever seen,” reads one of the many reviews that rave about said pool.) Plus, the residential-style suites feature helpful amenities like kitchens, washers and dryers. It’s worth noting that this is not a beachfront property; however, the most popular beach is just a short walk away so you can have the best of both worlds.

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8. Kauai Shores Hotel

Kauai Shores Hotel

Here, another gem on the island of Kauai—Kauai Shores Hotel is a popular choice for families due to its budget-friendly rates and prime beachfront location (think: six acres of shoreline right outside your room). Given the lower rates, you can expect more modest amenities (i.e., there are only two pools), but reports from numerous happy guests suggest you will still be wanting for nothing at this relaxing and centrally-located spot. One such review? “Wonderful staff. Very clean rooms and facilities. The views are beautiful and close to shops and eateries. The grounds are beautiful and lush. Our family had a fantastic time here.”

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9. Hana-Maui Resort

Hana-Maui Resort

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Kid-friendly travel can often mean sacrificing adult needs—you know, like wellness, serenity, peace and quiet—but that’s not the case at this unique resort in Hana. (Psst: the drive to Hana is formidable due to very windy roads, but this resort offers guests the opportunity to arrive via helicopter instead.) There aren’t a ton of kid-oriented amenities (i.e., no waterslides or playgrounds) but the resort is very popular with families nevertheless. Highlights of the property include its incredible natural setting, beautiful grounds and stunning ocean views. Hana-Maui also offers guests access to numerous activities that promote a connection and an abundance of opportunities for outdoor recreation—including, pickleball, horseback riding, paddleboarding, hiking and more. Per the reviews, “it's like a very fancy summer camp.” Bottom line: If you’re looking for a nature retreat that kids can get on board with, this place fits the bill.

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