Nowhere guarantees the vacation of a lifetime quite like Hawaii. It’s long been a popular destination for honeymooners and surfers, but it’s a great place to bring the whole family too. In fact, it’s all about ohana (family) here, something that’s incredibly important in Hawaiian culture. From sandcastle building and snorkeling with sea turtles to marveling at active volcanoes, whale watching, and luaus, the kids will never get bored here.
It can feel almost a little overwhelming to choose where to stay while exploring this magical state, so we’ve done all the hard work for you. Organized by islands, these are the best hotels in Hawaii for families.
Best Hotels in:
Oahu
Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa - Kapolei, Oahu
One of the best kid-friendly hotels in the world, the Aulani is pretty much guaranteed to thrill the kids, with their favorite characters roaming the grounds, a private snorkeling lagoon, a spectacular pool, water slides and a lazy river. There’s even a Disney character breakfast buffet they can look forward to every morning. The beach offers calm water for splashing around and there are a wide range of activities on offer, including kid-friendly dance parties. The rooms are generously sized and all come with kitchenettes and balconies or terraces. There are one- to three-bedroom villas available if you want to enjoy all the comforts of home, including full kitchens, laundry facilities and plenty of space to stretch out.
Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort - Honolulu, Oahu
A popular option on Oahu for families, Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort is more like an island village, set across 22 acres with tropical flowers and lush greenery. There’s a massive, 10,000-square-foot Super Pool, the Paradise Pool, water slides, and a beautiful beach where water sports equipment can be rented, and both snorkeling and hula dancing lessons can be enjoyed as well. Dining is top-notch at the multiple restaurants and cafes, with dishes typically featuring locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. The rooms are spread across five high-rise towers and all include balconies, some with panoramic ocean views.
Waikiki Shore by Outrigger - Honolulu, Oahu
Waikiki Shore by Outrigger sits along Waikiki Beach, famous for its beauty and its surfing. Not surprisingly, the sand and the sea are where it’s at here, with everything from beginner surfing lessons to customized surfing excursions, outrigger canoe surfing and stand-up paddle boarding. Dive-in movie nights are always a good time and you’ll find a wide variety of tasty fare, including Hawaiian dishes that can be enjoyed with live music. Rooms include everything from studios to two-bedroom condos with kitchens or kitchenettes, floor-to-ceiling windows and balconies, some with views of the Pacific and iconic Diamond Head.
Sheraton Waikiki - Honolulu, Oahu
A top-rated hotel in Waikiki Beach, Sheraton Waikiki boasts a prime spot along the coast, offering sweeping ocean views and a long list of kid-friendly activities. The Helumoa Playground area offers two swimming pools, a 70-foot water slide, and lounge chairs. With daycare available for kids 12 and under, parents can enjoy the adult-only pool with jaw-dropping views of the bay, pampering treatments at the spa or learn to surf. The on-site restaurants specialize in dishes made with locally grown food, while many rooms come with spectacular ocean or mountain views.
Hampton Inn & Suites Oahu/Kapolei - Kapolei, Oahu
The Hampton Inn & Suites Oahu/Kapolei is one of the more budget-friendly family resorts in Hawaii, but that doesn’t mean it scrimps on amenities. A three-star hotel set in the heart of the action, you’ll never have to wander too far from this spot’s grounds before finding something fun. If you’re a family who likes to keep busy, you’ll fall in love with this hotel. It’s located next door to Ka Makana Ali’i, with its 150 shops, restaurants, and entertainment. It’s also within easy distance to Ko Olina Beach and Pearl Harbor.
Marriott's Ko Olina Beach Club - Kapolei, Oahu
Marriott’s Ko Olina Beach Club has plenty of room types depending on who you’re visiting with and just how much space you’re after. Go all out with a villa if you’re part of a large family, or check into the penthouse king room if you’re looking to celebrate something seriously special. This five-star resort is just steps from the ocean on the island of Oahu and comes with great dining options, on-site pools to dip into, and beautiful views in every direction. Don’t miss the Fia Fia Polynesian Dinner Show on Tuesday evenings.
ESPACIO The Jewel of Waikiki - Honolulu, Oahu
ESPACIO The Jewel of Waikiki is a five-star luxury resort that takes a premium Hawaiian vacation to a whole new level. Complete with a rooftop infinity pool, a full-service spa, and an exclusive fine dining experience at its chic Japanese-French Mugen restaurant, it’s a hotel you’ll love no matter who you’re visiting with. Only steps from the sands of Waikiki Beach, you won’t know whether to spend your days in the pool or the ocean. The coolest part? Each spacious suite here has a private balcony with a Jacuzzi to soak in the panoramic views, which are especially beautiful during sunset.
Aston at the Waikiki Banyan - Honolulu, Oahu
The Aston at the Waikiki Banyan is a true beauty of a hotel and one that you’ll admire even while you’re waiting for your room key at reception. With its stunning decor, spacious rooms overlooking gorgeous views, and endless amenities, you’ll never want to leave this prestigious spot. Its ideal location near Kalakaua Avenue makes it a perfect choice for families who like being in the middle of it all while still enjoying the peaceful side of Waikiki. Once you’re done admiring your condo, head outside to find the largest recreation deck in Waikiki, with its barbecue grills, children’s playground area, swimming pool, sauna, and jet spas.
Paradise Bay Resort - Kaneohe, Oahu
One of the best places to stay on Oahu’s North Shore, it’s hard to beat the location of Paradise Bay Resort if you’re traveling with kids and need lots of forms of entertainment. Within an easy drive of Honolulu, Waikiki Beach, Pearl Harbor, the North Shore, and many attractions on the island, you’ll never find yourself bored while staying here. Paradise Bay Resort is nestled in a stunning natural setting with breathtaking views of the majestic Koolau Mountain Range and Kaneohe Bay. You’ll have access to snorkel gear, kayaks, free yoga and meditation classes, as well as beautiful swimming pools while staying in one of their well-equipped rooms or suites.
The Laylow - Honolulu, Oahu
Not only are children actively encouraged at The Laylow, but they also get to stay for free. A premium, family-friendly Oahu hotel with the decor and amenities choices to match, this sophisticated but fun spot is part of the Autograph Collection and features complimentary shaved Hawaiian ice by the pool. Its prime location makes it a top choice for families, who can enjoy its beautiful beaches and endless recreational activities, many of which are only seconds away. Combining mid-century modern design with island influences, this four-star hotel ticks all the boxes regardless of whether you’re looking to switch off or spend every waking moment exploring.
Courtyard Oahu North Shore - Laie, Oahu
At first glance, Courtyard Oahu North Shore looks more like a little family-run Hawaii hotel than a huge Marriott hotel. Until you’ve stepped through its doors and witnessed the vast scope of what’s inside. Peer out your window each morning to admire the mountainous backdrop, or take a dip in the pool and bathe in the sunshine. This beachfront hotel’s island-inspired accommodation was designed for groups of all sizes and ages, with options available to keep families happy. There’s also a casual bistro, a hot tub, and an exercise room.
Big Island
The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort - Waimea, Big Island
Head to The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort if you’re looking for that ideal fusion between family-friendly comfort and luxurious, premium surroundings. This incredible Big Island resort stretches along its namesake white-sand beach with lush, manicured gardens along one side and that endless blue ocean on the other. As well as its two swimming pools (a 6,800-square-foot freeform family pool and an adult-exclusive infinity pool), spa and wellness center, and 18-hole golf course, you’ll find a children’s activity program and modern fitness facilities. When you’re peckish, you can also enjoy dinner at the hotel’s sister property, Mauna Kea Beach Hotel.
Hilton Grand Vacations Club Ocean Tower Waikoloa Village - Waikoloa, Big Island
You’ll spot the Hilton Grand Vacations Club Ocean Tower Waikoloa Village from miles away, no matter whether you’re approaching in a car when you first arrive in Hawaii or when you’re snorkeling around its neighboring bay. This four-star hotel is one of the best family-friendly resorts around and offers plenty of space for everyone to relax. Water-themed options include three pools and a four-acre ocean-fed lagoon, with easy access to Wailua Bay if you’re looking to explore a little further. Other perks include on-site shopping and an impressive, full-service spa.
Four Seasons Resort Hualalai - Kailua-Kona, Big Island
Those looking to go all out during their family adventure to Hawaii need look no further than the majestic Four Seasons Resort Hualalai. This five-star resort is one of the best in Hawaii for families of all ages, with an 18-hole Jack Nicklaus signature Hualalai Golf Course, multiple swimming areas, and five dining options. Surrounded by white-sand beaches and black-lava landscapes, adults and children alike will fall in love with Hawaii as soon as they’ve spent just one night at this hotel. It even comes complete with an adults-only pool, giving parents the chance to switch off for a little while if needed.
Hilton Grand Vacations Club Kings' Land Waikoloa - Waikoloa, Big Island
With its sand-bottomed pools, waterfalls, lava-rock scenery, and lush lawn, it’s hard to look away when you first catch a glimpse of Hilton Grand Vacations Club Kings’ Land Waikoloa. This three-star hotel offers all of the Hilton’s charm without an overly high price tag attached and is one of the top spots in Hawaii if you’re traveling with children in tow. Rooms and suites overlook the beautiful gardens, while the rest of the resort overlooks the gorgeous blue waters. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the fitness center and activity center with its game tables, video game systems, and movies.
Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort and Spa - Waikoloa Village, Big Island
Located on the Kohala Coast of the Big Island on Anaehoomalu Bay, the Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort and Spa boasts a wide stretch of sands dotted with loungers and umbrellas, with a variety of water sports on offer, including outstanding snorkeling among sea turtles and other abundant marine life. The pool complex includes three swimming pools, one with a waterslide, and there are luaus hosted here with food, live music, and dancing. The spa offers stress-melting treatments and there are multiple dining options with menus featuring both Hawaiian and typical American dishes. Rooms all come with flat-screen TVs with Netflix streaming and private, furnished balconies or patios, some with ocean views.
Hilton Waikoloa Village - Waikoloa Village, Big Island
A top resort on the Big Island, Hilton Waikoloa Village is a sprawling property, the largest in the Kona area, and also one of the most kid-friendly with plenty to do for kids and adults alike. It’s like its own village, complete with a tram and even canal boats to get around. There’s a kids’ club with fun arts and crafts and even snorkeling excursions. Enjoy various pools for swimming, including a kids’ pool, a manmade lagoon with green sea turtles, and opportunities for kayaking and paddle boating. The numerous restaurant options ensure everyone in the family will be pleased while rooms feature balconies, flat-screen TVs and minifridges.
Club Wyndham Kona Hawaiian Resort - Kailua-Kona, Big Island
The Club Wyndham Kona Hawaiian Resort provides accommodation in two-bedroom condos that can accommodate as many as six guests, making it especially desirable for families. All come with private patios, full kitchens, cable TVs with DVD players, washer/dryers, and whirlpool tubs. If you want to be able to cook many of your own meals it’s especially ideal. There is no restaurant on-site but you’ll find many nearby. The grounds include two pools and hot tubs while the beach is just a few minutes’ walk away.
Outrigger Kona Resort and Spa - Kailua-Kona, Big Island
The oceanfront Outrigger Kona Resort and Spa sits on 22 acres along the Pacific and includes an oceanfront lagoon pool with multiple levels, nestled against the lava cliffs, a 200-foot waterslide and a wading pool. Enjoy swimming, snorkeling or diving in the bay and pampering treatments at the spa, including decadent massage options. It also hosts a Himalayan Salt Room. Memorable luaus can be enjoyed on-site and nearly all rooms have at least a partial sea or mountain view.
Kauai
Hanalei Colony Resort - Hanalei, Kauai
Hanalei Colony Resort is Kauai’s only North Shore beachfront resort and sits on a gentle curve of golden sand beach. This beautiful four-star Kauai boutique hotel features a restaurant and bar and easy waterfront access for swimming, snorkeling, or boat trips. Its two-bedroom suites provide plenty of space for families looking to spread out a little bit, while the resort’s free shuttle offers endless opportunities to explore the rest of Kauai’s magic. Each room has a balcony featuring stunning views and a fully-equipped kitchen and dining area, so you don’t need to worry about eating out each night.
Hilton Garden Inn Kauai Wailua Bay - Kapaa, Kauai
The Hilton Garden Inn Kauai Wailua Bay offers some of the best sunset views right from its huge pool and it comes with private beach access too. The multiple dining options include a poolside tiki bar and restaurant for handcrafted cocktails, Hawaiian fare and beautiful views of Wailua Bay. On Tuesday evenings there’s an elaborate show with fire dancing, fire eating and Polynesian drumming. The variety of room options makes it easy for families to find comfort with rooms, suites and cottages that have separate living areas and pull-out sofas.
Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort - Kapaa, Kauai
The Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort sits right on Coconut Beach on Kauai’s east coast, boasting unrivaled views of the ocean and the mountains. You’ll be surrounded by beauty while enjoying 4-star amenities, including an infinity pool and oceanfront bar, fire pits and a restaurant serving Hawaiian fare. All rooms come with flat-screen TVs, minifridges, coffeemakers and private lanais, some with ocean, pool or garden views.
Kauai Beach Resort & Spa - Lihue, Kauai
Kauai Beach Resort & Spa is home to four swimming pools complete with their own waterfalls, an impressive spa, and stunning manicured grounds to wander throughout during your stay. It’s certainly one of the prettiest resorts around and one of the best in Kauai, offering all the facilities necessary for a relaxing stay in Hawaii. Dining options here don’t hold back either and include an upscale pan-Pacific restaurant, a laid-back lounge, and a poolside bar and grill. It doesn’t matter what you fancy for dinner, as you’ll almost definitely find it here. It’s also only minutes away from the closest airport, Lihue.
Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas - Princeville, Kauai
Located on Kauai’s stunning north shore, the Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas offers a dream vacation for families with accommodation in villas that include full kitchens and spacious bedrooms with spectacular ocean views. The grounds include a large pool, poolside bar and a market when you want to pick up ingredients to make your own meals. The Nanea Restaurant Bar is on-site when you’d prefer to dine out. Daily activities are available too, with options that include everything from lei-making classes to paddle boarding.
Maui
Fairmont Kea Lani - Wailea, Maui
The Fairmont Kea Lani is a beachfront property that sits on 22 lush acres with some of the best options for families on Maui, with accommodations ranging from large one-bedroom suites to two- and three-bedroom villas. The kids’ club offers a long list of activities, from learning Hawaiian words and phrases to hula lessons, making erupting volcanoes and sandcastle building. While the younger ones have fun, the adults can enjoy the adult-only pool, the 24-hour fitness center with free classes or treatments at the luxurious spa. There are multiple gorgeous pools, waterslides and a separate pool for the tiny tots along with a wide range of dining options that provide something for everyone.
Montage Kapalua Bay - Lahaina, Maui
Choose from elegant one- to four-bedroom villas with gourmet kitchens and spacious lanais, many of which come with breathtaking ocean views, at the luxurious Montage Kapalua Bay. It also has a multi-level pool complex and a world-class spa with an infinity pool and hydrotherapy treatment rooms that parents can enjoy while the kids take part in activities. The children’s program is available in half- or full-day sessions and includes both indoor and outdoor activities at the beach and pool. The large fitness center offers yoga and other classes, while dining options include casual eateries with prime views of Lanai and Molokai, live music and kids’ menus.
Grand Wailea - Wailea, Maui
The Grand Wailea is jam-packed with amenities, including an extensive pool complex that’s more like a full water park with four waterslides, a lazy river, whitewater rapids for rafting, rope swings, caves and a water elevator in a manmade volcano. The kids’ camp is massive and includes its own movie theater and a PlayStation room. There’s also a huge spa for some blissful pampering and four restaurants on-site. Rooms are very well-equipped and impressively sized, with standards starting at 715 square feet. All come with furnished terraces and there are numerous suite and villa options too.
Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa - Lahaina, Maui
The kid-friendly Hyatt Regency is a great option, with even the standard rooms spacious enough for a family of four. Kids and adults alike will love the encounters with flamingos, parrots and even penguins that roam the grounds. Daily penguin feedings are sure to thrill as well, while the massive pool complex features waterfalls, a rope bridge, a 150-foot waterslide and a separate children’s area. When parents want some alone time, there are supervised activities for the kids available for an additional fee. Kayaking, surfing and snorkeling are available, and there’s also a spa and fitness center. Dining options include seven restaurants and luaus are hosted here too.
Wailea Beach Resort - Wailea, Maui
Wailea Beach Resort is well-stocked as far as Maui resorts for families go, no matter what you’re after, be it a delicious meal at a restaurant, a great workout in the gym, a lengthy stroll along the shore, or a brilliant night’s sleep complete with luxury bedding. A four-star hotel situated in Maui, it’s home to diverse dining options, private floating cabanas, and a vibrant luau show, as well as family-friendly hotel rooms with ocean-inspired decor, mini-refrigerators, plush bedding, and high-speed Wi-Fi. Wailea Beach and Ulua Beach Park are both within walking distance of this wonderful hotel, making day trips a breeze.
Napili Kai Beach Resort - Lahaina, Maui
Napili Kai Beach Resort is one of the friendliest resorts around and knows exactly how to make kids feel special, and adults feel pampered and relaxed. A four-star resort perched on the shores of unspoiled Napili Bay, this is where to stay in Maui for any family looking to spend most of their vacation exploring the ocean. Napili Kai Beach Resort’s rooms feature tropical-style furnishings, private porches, and pull-out sofas, making them a versatile option for groups of all sizes. Hawaii can be an expensive vacation option, so you’ll be pleased to hear that kids’ meals are complimentary when staying here.
