--- title: "Best Luxury Resorts in Hawaii Ranked Island by Island" description: "The best luxury resort on each Hawaiian island, with Maui, Big Island, Kauai, Lanai and Oahu compared using rates, weather and practical timing advice." lang: en json-ld: | [ { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@graph": [ { "@type": "Organization", "@id": "https://luxuryhotelcompare.com/#organization", "name": "Luxury Hotel Compare", "alternateName": "Jack Williamson", "url": "https://luxuryhotelcompare.com", "description": "Independent luxury hotel comparison and travel guide covering the world's top luxury destinations.", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://luxuryhotelcompare.com/og/lhc-logo.png" }, "sameAs": [] }, { "@type": "WebSite", "@id": "https://luxuryhotelcompare.com/#website", "name": "Luxury Hotel Compare", "url": "https://luxuryhotelcompare.com", "description": "Independent luxury hotel comparisons and travel guides for the world's top destinations.", "publisher": { "@id": "https://luxuryhotelcompare.com/#organization" }, "potentialAction": { "@type": "SearchAction", "target": "https://luxuryhotelcompare.com/?search={search_term_string}", "query-input": "required name=search_term_string" } } ] }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@graph": [ { "@type": "Article", "@id": "https://luxuryhotelcompare.com/travel-guides/best-luxury-resorts-hawaii#article", "name": "Best Luxury Resorts in Hawaii Ranked Island by Island", "headline": "Best Luxury Resorts in Hawaii Ranked Island by Island", "description": "The best luxury resort on each Hawaiian island, with Maui, Big Island, Kauai, Lanai and Oahu compared using rates, weather and practical timing advice.", "url": "https://luxuryhotelcompare.com/travel-guides/best-luxury-resorts-hawaii", "image": "https://luxuryhotelcompare.com/img/hawaii/og.jpg", "inLanguage": "en", "isPartOf": { "@id": "https://luxuryhotelcompare.com/#website" }, "publisher": { "@id": "https://luxuryhotelcompare.com/#organization" }, "abstract": "This guide compares Hawaii resorts using live rates, verified guest scores, property specifications and island logistics. It starts with the island before ranking the resort.", "backstory": "This guide compares Hawaii resorts using live rates, verified guest scores, property specifications and island logistics. It starts with the island before ranking the resort.", "disambiguatingDescription": "Rates, island logistics and Booking.com scores last verified 12 July 2026. Research methods and funding are published at /methodology.", "author": { "@id": "https://luxuryhotelcompare.com/about#jack-williamson" }, "datePublished": "2026-07-31", "dateModified": "2026-07-12", "speakable": { "@type": "SpeakableSpecification", "cssSelector": [ "h1", ".lhc-hero-subhead", "#overview", "#verdict-section" ] } }, { "@type": "BreadcrumbList", "itemListElement": [ { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 1, "name": "Home", "item": "https://luxuryhotelcompare.com" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 2, "name": "Travel Guides", "item": "https://luxuryhotelcompare.com/travel-guides" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 3, "name": "The best luxury resorts in Hawaii 2026, island by island", "item": "https://luxuryhotelcompare.com/travel-guides/best-luxury-resorts-hawaii" } ] } ] } ] --- [L Luxury Hotel Compare Indep · Editorial · 2026 ](/) Destinations Guides [Best eSIM](/travel-guides/best-esim-international-travel-2026)[Priority Pass Review](/airport-lounges)[Best Luxury Luggage](/suitcases) [Book Via Booking.com](https://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-101801746-17288959?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fsearchresults.html%3Fss%3Dluxury%2Bhotels%26checkin%3D2026-10-21%26checkout%3D2026-10-23%26group_adults%3D2%26no_rooms%3D1%26group_children%3D0) In this guide Compare In this guide - [About this guide](#about-this-guide-heading) - [Which island should you choose?](#island-choice) - [The fourteen resorts compared](#compare) - [Hawaii versus the long haul alternatives](#hawaii-vs-alternatives) - [The full ranking](#top-hotels) - [The Hawaiian year at a glance](#weather) - [Hawaii luxury resorts FAQ](#faq-heading) - [Keep reading](#related-guides-heading) Guide facts Author Jack Williamson Last updated July 2026 Length 17 minutes Reviewed 14 hotels reviewed ![Booking.com](data:image/webp;base64,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) Check live prices. [Check availability](https://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-101801746-17288959?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fsearchresults.html%3Fss%3DAerial%2Bview%2Bof%2Ba%2BHawaiian%2Bcoastline%2Bat%2Bgolden%2Bhour%2Bwith%2Bblack%2Blava%2Brock%252C%2Bturquoise%2Bwater%2Band%2Bgreen%2Bcliffs%26checkin%3D2026-10-21%26checkout%3D2026-10-23%26group_adults%3D2%26no_rooms%3D1%26group_children%3D0)at Booking.com ![Aerial view of a Hawaiian coastline at golden hour with black lava rock, turquoise water and green cliffs](/img/hawaii/hero-2400-1920w.webp) Hawaii · Luxury resorts · 2026 # The best luxury resorts in Hawaii 2026, island by island. Island choice matters more than resort choice. Start with the island decision table, then take the best property on the island you have chosen, across Maui, the Big Island, Kauai, Lanai and Oahu. By Jack Williamson · July 2026 · 17 minutes · 14 hotels reviewed Prices and policies last verified 24 August 2026 by Jack Williamson. HAWAII · FIVE ISLANDS · FOURTEEN RESORTS Editorial site visit · 2026 Quick Answer **Choose the island first. Best overall resort: Four Seasons Resort Hualalai on the Big Island.** Pick Maui for a first visit, the Big Island for variety, Kauai for scenery, Lanai for privacy and Oahu only for flight access. Luxury Hotel Compare rates [Four Seasons Hualalai](#root) the strongest resort in the state, with Four Seasons Maui at Wailea the safest Maui booking. Travel April to June or September to November, and avoid the winter holidays entirely. Best months: **Apr to Jun, Sep to Nov** **14** resorts reviewed Islands: **5** From **$600**/night Updated July 2026 · Reviewed by [Jack Williamson](/about), Luxury Travel Editor ## About this guide This guide compares Hawaii resorts using live rates, verified guest scores, property specifications and island logistics. It starts with the island before ranking the resort. Rates, island logistics and Booking.com scores last verified 12 July 2026. Research methods and funding are published at /methodology. **How to read the numbers on this page.** Nightly rates are the lowest lead in rates I saw on Booking.com for shoulder season dates and move constantly, so treat them as a budgeting guide rather than a quote. Scores are the current Booking.com and Tripadvisor guest scores at the time of writing. Resort fees and parking are charged on top at almost every property, typically USD 40 to 60 and USD 35 to 60 a day respectively. Oahu is included for flight access, not for its resort tier. Quickly navigate [The 14 Resorts](#top-hotels)[Compare](#compare)[When to Go](#weather)[FAQs](#faq) Start here ## Which island should you choose? Island choice matters more than resort choice, and almost every guide gets this backwards by ranking resorts across the whole state as though the islands were interchangeable. Decide the island first, then pick the property on it. Hawaiian island decision matrix, 2026 Island Best for Vibe Flight from US West Coast Car needed? Best months Skip if Maui First visit, honeymoon, whale watching Walkable resort areas, strong dining, calm beaches About 5h 30m nonstop LAX to Kahului Yes April to June, September to November, March for whales You want wilderness rather than a resort strip Big Island Variety: volcanoes, waterfalls, snorkelling Lava coast luxury with real day trips About 5h 30m nonstop LAX to Kona Yes April to June, September to November You want lush green scenery outside the window Kauai Scenery, hiking, a slower trip Lusher, more rugged, more relaxed About 5h 45m nonstop LAX to Lihue Yes May to September for the North Shore You need dependable dry weather outside summer Lanai Privacy and a small island escape Almost nothing but the resort No mainland nonstop: about 5h 40m to Honolulu, then a 30 minute hop to Lanai City No April to June, September to November You want restaurants, towns or variety Oahu Flight access, city and beach combined Urban, busy, the least resort like About 5h 40m nonstop LAX to Honolulu Optional in Waikiki April to June, September to November Resort luxury is the whole point of the trip Scroll the table sideways to see every column Flight times are typical scheduled nonstop durations from Los Angeles and vary by carrier and season. Every row is a positioning call, not a rate quote. ## Island first, resort second **The reader's real question is not which resort is best.** It is which island is right for us, and then what is the best place to stay there. Ranking resorts across the whole state as though the islands were interchangeable produces a list that reads well and books badly, because a Kohala Coast lava landscape and a Kauai North Shore rainforest are not two versions of the same holiday. **Maui** is the default first visit. Ka'anapali and Wailea offer walkable resort style stays with strong dining and calm beaches, whale watching peaks in March, and a rental car is recommended for anything beyond the resort strip. **The Big Island** is the variety island. Kohala Coast resorts balance luxury with volcanoes, waterfalls and strong snorkelling, and the biodiversity across the island is the widest in the state. It is the island where the day trips justify the rental car. **Kauai** is lusher, more rugged and more relaxed than the others, particularly on the North Shore, and it is at its best from May to September. A rental car is recommended. It is the island people fall for, and the one that punishes bad timing hardest. **Lanai** is privacy and a small island escape, with effectively one luxury resort and no day tripper traffic. **Oahu** has the best flight access and the only real city, and is the weakest island for resort luxury. **The second argument is the one Americans are actually weighing.** Hawaii is the accessible luxury beach option: no passport, five to six hours from most major US cities, and a typical honeymoon budget of 3,000 to 8,000 US dollars against 10,000 to 25,000 and 20 to 24 hours of flying for the Maldives. The comparison table below is built around exactly that decision. **West Maui and Lahaina.** The August 2023 wildfire destroyed Lahaina town and killed a large number of people. Lahaina sits between Ka'anapali and Kapalua, so it is directly relevant to any West Maui booking. Reporting through 2026 describes a town still rebuilding: much of the historic Front Street core remains closed while surviving restaurants, shops and harbour operators trade and depend on visitors returning. Resorts in Ka'anapali and Kapalua are operating. **How to visit West Maui responsibly.** Book the resorts, eat in the restaurants that are open, use local operators, and treat closed areas as closed rather than as sightseeing. Lahaina's destruction is not scenery and it is not colour for a travel guide. Tourism is a large part of how West Maui recovers, which is why the honest answer to "should we still go" is yes, carefully. **Timing.** Avoid the winter holiday season, which is extremely crowded and measurably diminished for the money. The best windows are April to June and September to November, with fewer crowds and lower rates. Come in March for whales off Maui, and May to September for Kauai's North Shore. **Is Hawaii worth luxury money?** Honestly, only on the right island and in the right month. At 1,500 US dollars a night in late December you are paying a premium for crowding. The same property in early May, with a rental car and a day trip plan, is one of the best value luxury beach holidays available to an American traveller, and it costs a fraction of the long haul alternatives. On this page - [The 14 Resorts](#top-hotels) - [Compare](#compare) - [When to Go](#weather) - [FAQs](#faq) At a Glance Hotels Reviewed 14 Price Range $600 to $1,700 per night Best Value Pick [Oahu, the island to verify before you book](https://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-101801746-17288959?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fsearchresults.html%3Fss%3DLuxury%2Bhotels%2BHonolulu%2BOahu%2BWaikiki%26checkin%3D2026-10-21%26checkout%3D2026-10-23%26group_adults%3D2%26no_rooms%3D1%26group_children%3D0) Last Updated July 2026 Best months April to June and September to November Months to avoid Late December, and July to August for crowds Whale watching Peaks in March, off Maui Kauai North Shore May to September Minimum useful stay Seven nights on one island Car needed Yes on Maui, Big Island and Kauai. No on Lanai Currency US dollar ![Booking.com](data:image/webp;base64,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) #### Search stays for your dates Live rates for every hotel on this list, direct from Booking.com. Search stays Booking.com Search Check live rates for luxury stays. Destination Check-in Check-out Adults 1 adult 2 adults 3 adults 4 adults 5 adults 6 adults 7 adults 8 adults Rooms 1 room 2 rooms 3 rooms 4 rooms 5 rooms Search Opens Booking.com in a new tab. at Booking.com Search stays for your dates Booking.com Search Check live rates for luxury stays. Destination Check-in Check-out Adults 1 adult 2 adults 3 adults 4 adults 5 adults 6 adults 7 adults 8 adults Rooms 1 room 2 rooms 3 rooms 4 rooms 5 rooms Search Opens Booking.com in a new tab. Quick Compare ## The fourteen resorts compared Four Seasons Hualalai leads the state, Four Seasons Maui at Wailea is the safest Maui booking, [Montage Kapalua Bay](https://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-101801746-17288959?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fsearchresults.html%3Fss%3DMontage%2BKapalua%2BBay%2BMaui%26checkin%3D2026-10-21%26checkout%3D2026-10-23%26group_adults%3D2%26no_rooms%3D1%26group_children%3D0) is the group and long stay pick, Grand Wailea is the family pick, and [Hotel Wailea](https://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-101801746-17288959?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fsearchresults.html%3Fss%3DHotel%2BWailea%2BMaui%2Badults%2Bonly%26checkin%3D2026-10-21%26checkout%3D2026-10-23%26group_adults%3D2%26no_rooms%3D1%26group_children%3D0) is the adults only pick. Every rate below is indicative and unverified in this draft. The 14 best hotels compared, 2026 Hotel From / Night Best For LHC Score Book [01 Four Seasons Resort Hualalai **Editor's Pick**](#root) $1,700 The Big Island benchmark on the Kohala Coast ★★★★★ 9.6 [Book](https://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-101801746-17288959?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fsearchresults.html%3Fss%3DFour%2BSeasons%2BResort%2BHualalai%2BKailua%2BKona%2BHawaii%26checkin%3D2026-10-21%26checkout%3D2026-10-23%26group_adults%3D2%26no_rooms%3D1%26group_children%3D0) [02 Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea](#root) $1,300 The dependable Maui five star on Wailea Beach ★★★★★ 9.4 [Book](https://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-101801746-17288959?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Fus%2Ffour-seasons-resort-maui-at-wailea.html%3Fcheckin%3D2026-10-21%26checkout%3D2026-10-23%26group_adults%3D2%26no_rooms%3D1%26group_children%3D0) 03 Montage Kapalua Bay $1,200 Residential suites for groups and long stays ★★★★★ 9.3 [Book](https://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-101801746-17288959?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fsearchresults.html%3Fss%3DMontage%2BKapalua%2BBay%2BMaui%26checkin%3D2026-10-21%26checkout%3D2026-10-23%26group_adults%3D2%26no_rooms%3D1%26group_children%3D0) 04 Fairmont Kea Lani $900 All suite space at Wailea's quiet end ★★★★★ 9.1 [Book](https://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-101801746-17288959?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Fus%2Fthe-fairmont-kea-lani.html%3Fcheckin%3D2026-10-21%26checkout%3D2026-10-23%26group_adults%3D2%26no_rooms%3D1%26group_children%3D0) 05 Four Seasons Resort Lanai $1,500 Maximum privacy on a small island ★★★★★ 9.3 [Book](https://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-101801746-17288959?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fsearchresults.html%3Fss%3DFour%2BSeasons%2BResort%2BLanai%2BHawaii%26checkin%3D2026-10-21%26checkout%3D2026-10-23%26group_adults%3D2%26no_rooms%3D1%26group_children%3D0) 06 A Hanalei Bay resort on Kauai's North Shore $1,100 Kauai's North Shore at five star level ★★★★★ 9.2 [Book](https://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-101801746-17288959?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fsearchresults.html%3Fss%3DHanalei%2BBay%2BPrinceville%2Bresort%2BKauai%26checkin%3D2026-10-21%26checkout%3D2026-10-23%26group_adults%3D2%26no_rooms%3D1%26group_children%3D0) 07 Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort $1,400 Standalone hales on a lava fringed bay ★★★★★ 9.1 [Book](https://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-101801746-17288959?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fsearchresults.html%3Fss%3DKona%2BVillage%2BA%2BRosewood%2BResort%2BHawaii%26checkin%3D2026-10-21%26checkout%3D2026-10-23%26group_adults%3D2%26no_rooms%3D1%26group_children%3D0) 08 Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection $1,000 Design led Kohala Coast alternative ★★★★★ 9.0 [Book](https://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-101801746-17288959?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fsearchresults.html%3Fss%3DMauna%2BLani%2BAuberge%2BResorts%2BCollection%2BHawaii%26checkin%3D2026-10-21%26checkout%3D2026-10-23%26group_adults%3D2%26no_rooms%3D1%26group_children%3D0) 09 Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort $800 The family resort with the pool complex ★★★★ 8.9 [Book](https://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-101801746-17288959?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Fus%2Fgrand-wailea-resort-spa.html%3Fcheckin%3D2026-10-21%26checkout%3D2026-10-23%26group_adults%3D2%26no_rooms%3D1%26group_children%3D0) 10 Andaz Maui at Mokapu Beach $850 The contemporary Wailea alternative ★★★★ 8.9 [Book](https://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-101801746-17288959?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fsearchresults.html%3Fss%3DAndaz%2BMaui%2Bat%2BMokapu%2BBeach%2BWailea%26checkin%3D2026-10-21%26checkout%3D2026-10-23%26group_adults%3D2%26no_rooms%3D1%26group_children%3D0) 11 The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua $750 Hiking, golf and programming in West Maui ★★★★ 8.8 [Book](https://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-101801746-17288959?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fsearchresults.html%3Fss%3DRitz%2BCarlton%2BMaui%2BKapalua%26checkin%3D2026-10-21%26checkout%3D2026-10-23%26group_adults%3D2%26no_rooms%3D1%26group_children%3D0) 12 Hotel Wailea $700 Adults only, small and quiet above Wailea ★★★★ 8.8 [Book](https://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-101801746-17288959?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fsearchresults.html%3Fss%3DHotel%2BWailea%2BMaui%2Badults%2Bonly%26checkin%3D2026-10-21%26checkout%3D2026-10-23%26group_adults%3D2%26no_rooms%3D1%26group_children%3D0) 13 The Resort at Kapalua Bay $650 All suite stay on the best snorkelling bay ★★★★ 8.7 [Book](https://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-101801746-17288959?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fsearchresults.html%3Fss%3DThe%2BResort%2Bat%2BKapalua%2BBay%2BMaui%26checkin%3D2026-10-21%26checkout%3D2026-10-23%26group_adults%3D2%26no_rooms%3D1%26group_children%3D0) 14 Oahu, the island to verify before you book $600 Best access, weakest resort tier ★★★★ 8.4 [Book](https://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-101801746-17288959?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fsearchresults.html%3Fss%3DLuxury%2Bhotels%2BHonolulu%2BOahu%2BWaikiki%26checkin%3D2026-10-21%26checkout%3D2026-10-23%26group_adults%3D2%26no_rooms%3D1%26group_children%3D0) The real comparison ## Hawaii versus the long haul alternatives This is the comparison Americans are actually making, and it is the reason Hawaii keeps winning it. No passport, five to six hours from most major US cities, and a honeymoon budget that lands at roughly a third of a Maldives trip. Hawaii compared with the Maldives, Bora Bora and Turks and Caicos, 2026 Destination Flight time from US Passport needed? Typical honeymoon budget Overwater villas? Best for Hawaii 5 to 6 hours from most major US cities No USD 3,000 to 8,000 No Accessible luxury, variety, a short flight Maldives 20 to 24 hours Yes USD 10,000 to 25,000 Yes Overwater villas and total seclusion. See the [Maldives honeymoon guide](/travel-guides/best-maldives-honeymoon-resorts-2026). Bora Bora About 8h 15m LAX to Papeete, plus a 50 minute island hop Yes USD 12,000 to 25,000 Yes Lagoon scenery. Read [Maldives vs Bora Bora](/travel-guides/best-maldives-honeymoon-resorts-2026) before choosing. Turks and Caicos About 1h 45m from Miami, 3h 30m from New York Yes USD 6,000 to 12,000 No Beach quality on a short East Coast flight. Compare with [the best luxury all inclusive resorts](/travel-guides/best-luxury-all-inclusive-resorts). Scroll the table sideways to see every column Budget ranges are per couple for a week of luxury accommodation and are indicative, not quotes. ## The full ranking ![Oceanfront luxury resort built into black lava rock on the Kohala Coast of Hawaii Big Island](/img/hawaii/card-hualalai-1200-1200w.webp) #01 Kohala Coast, Big Island · Big Island ### 01\. Four Seasons Resort Hualalai From about USD 1,700/night. Indicative rate, not a checked quote. [Four Seasons Resort Hualalai](#root) is the reference point for ultra luxury in Hawaii, and the property most readers of Luxury Hotel Compare are choosing between when they ask whether Hawaii can match the Maldives. Native lava rock architecture, bungalow style rooms, an oceanfront golf course and seven pools, including King's Pond, where guests snorkel with tropical fish and an eagle ray. The Kohala Coast setting is the other half of the argument. Volcanoes, waterfalls and strong snorkelling are all inside a day trip, which is not true of a Maui resort week. The property also appeared in the first season of The White Lotus, which is worth knowing if that is why you are looking: see the [White Lotus hotels guide](/travel-guides/white-lotus-hotels-every-season), and for the Wailea resort the first season was shot at, with rates room by room, see [what a night at Four Seasons Maui costs](/travel-guides/white-lotus-hawaii-four-seasons-maui). Unique Selling Points Highlight Editor's Pick Highlight Seven pools Highlight King's Pond Highlight Seven pools, including King's Pond with tropical fish and an eagle ray Rooms Native lava rock architecture and bungalow style rooms Sport Oceanfront golf course on the Kohala Coast **Best for:** The Big Island benchmark on the Kohala Coast **Watch out:** Among the highest starting rates in Hawaii > “The reference point for ultra luxury in Hawaii, and the property most readers are choosing between when they ask whether Hawaii can match the Maldives.” > > Luxury Hotel Compare editorial note [TripAdvisor reviews ↗](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Search?q=Four%20Seasons%20Resort%20Hualalai) Check rates → ![Oceanfront resort pool deck and palms above Wailea Beach on Maui](/img/hawaii/card-fs-maui-1200-1200w.webp) #02 Wailea, Maui · Maui ### 02\. Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea From about USD 1,300/night. Indicative rate, not a checked quote. [Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea](#root) sits directly on Wailea Beach, one of the calmest swimming beaches on the island, and it is the safest booking on Maui: the one that disappoints the fewest people. An adults only infinity pool runs alongside the family pools, Spago by Wolfgang Puck is on site, and the Wailea restaurant strip is a short walk away. The design is classic rather than contemporary, and Wailea itself is a purpose built resort strip rather than a town with local life, so a rental car is effectively compulsory for anything beyond it. Unique Selling Points Water and beach Wailea Beach Pool Adults only pool Highlight Spago Pool Adults only infinity pool alongside the family pools Water and beach Directly on Wailea Beach, one of the calmest swimming beaches on Maui Dining Spago by Wolfgang Puck on site, plus a short walk to the Wailea restaurant strip **Best for:** The dependable Maui five star on Wailea Beach **Watch out:** Classic rather than contemporary design; Andaz is the modern alternative > “The safest booking on Maui, and the one that disappoints the fewest people. It is not the most interesting.” > > Luxury Hotel Compare editorial note [TripAdvisor reviews ↗](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Search?q=Four%20Seasons%20Resort%20Maui%20at%20Wailea) Check rates → ![Wide residential suite lanai overlooking the turquoise water of Kapalua Bay in Maui](/img/hawaii/card-montage-1200-1200w.webp) #03 Kapalua, West Maui · Maui, Kapalua ### 03\. Montage Kapalua Bay From about USD 1,200/night. Indicative rate, not a checked quote. [Montage Kapalua Bay](#compare) is residential luxury rather than hotel luxury: one to four bedroom suites with gourmet kitchens, wide lanais and washer dryers, on the twenty four acre Kapalua Bay site. That specification makes it the strongest property on this list for multigenerational groups and for stays longer than five nights. Spa Montage, an adults only infinity pool and family lagoon pools cover most moods, and the cliffside trails, tide pools and Kapalua Golf Club are all within walking distance. Unique Selling Points Rooms One to four bedrooms Highlight Full kitchens Highlight 24 acre bay Rooms One to four bedroom suites with full kitchens and in suite laundry Pool Adults only infinity pool plus separate family lagoon pools Sport Walking distance to cliffside trails, tide pools and Kapalua Golf Club **Best for:** Residential suites for groups and long stays **Watch out:** West Maui, so read the Lahaina and West Maui section below before booking > “Book this for a family of six for a week. Book Four Seasons Wailea for a couple for four nights.” > > Luxury Hotel Compare editorial note [TripAdvisor reviews ↗](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Search?q=Montage%20Kapalua%20Bay) Check rates → ![White all suite beachfront resort with layered swimming pools and palms in Wailea Maui](/img/hawaii/card-kea-lani-1200-1200w.webp) #04 Polo Beach, Wailea, South Maui · Maui, Wailea ### 04\. Fairmont Kea Lani From about USD 900/night. Indicative rate, not a checked quote. [Fairmont Kea Lani](#compare) is all suite, with entry level suites from 860 square feet and private lanais, plus villas with full kitchens and private plunge pools. It sits on Polo Beach at the quieter southern end of Wailea and has recently completed a full refresh. The pools are layered rather than pooled into one arena: a family pool with a waterslide, a quiet pool and an adults only pool. The signature restaurant is Ko. Unique Selling Points Rooms All suite Highlight 860 sq ft entry Rooms Villas with plunge pools Rooms Every room is a suite, with entry suites from 860 square feet Three pool zones family with waterslide, quiet, and adults only Water and beach Polo Beach is the calmer southern end of the Wailea strip **Best for:** All suite space at Wailea's quiet end **Watch out:** The white Mediterranean architecture reads dated to some guests > “The best size to price ratio in Wailea. You are buying square footage rather than a name.” > > Luxury Hotel Compare editorial note [TripAdvisor reviews ↗](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Search?q=Fairmont%20Kea%20Lani%20Maui) Check rates → ![Luxury resort on red rock cliffs above a calm bay on the Hawaiian island of Lanai](/img/hawaii/card-fs-lanai-1200-1200w.webp) #05 Manele Bay, Lanai · Lanai ### 05\. Four Seasons Resort Lanai From about USD 1,500/night. Indicative rate, not a checked quote. Lanai is the privacy answer. [Four Seasons Resort Lanai](#compare) has received significant investment under Larry Ellison's ownership, and the small island setting means there is effectively no day tripper traffic and very little else on the island competing for the same views. Some 2026 packages include a fifth night free and complimentary return Lanai Air flights. Unique Selling Points Highlight Small island Highlight Privacy Highlight Fifth night offers Atmosphere The most private stay in the state, with no day trip traffic Rooms Significant recent investment across rooms, dining and grounds Highlight Package rates can include a fifth night and return Lanai Air flights **Best for:** Maximum privacy on a small island **Watch out:** Getting there adds a flight or ferry to an already long journey > “Choose Lanai when the point is that nobody can reach you. Choose the Big Island when the point is what you can reach.” > > Luxury Hotel Compare editorial note [TripAdvisor reviews ↗](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Search?q=Four%20Seasons%20Resort%20Lanai) Check rates → ![Resort pool terrace above Hanalei Bay on Kauai with green waterfall covered mountains behind](/img/hawaii/card-hanalei-1200-1200w.webp) #06 Princeville, North Shore, Kauai · Kauai ### 06\. A Hanalei Bay resort on Kauai's North Shore From about USD 1,100/night. Indicative rate, not a checked quote. The North Shore property above [Hanalei Bay](#compare) pairs a world class golf course with suites offering personal butler service and beach cabanas, in noticeably more rugged surroundings than any other five star resort in Hawaii. The mountains behind the bay are the reason to come. Unique Selling Points Service Butler service Water and beach Beach cabanas Sport Championship golf Highlight The most dramatic setting of any luxury resort in the state Sport Championship golf on site, above Hanalei Bay Rooms Suites with personal butler service and beach cabanas **Best for:** Kauai's North Shore at five star level **Watch out:** The North Shore is genuinely wet outside the May to September window > “Kauai is the island people fall for and Maui is the island people book. This property is the reason for the first half of that sentence.” > > Luxury Hotel Compare editorial note [TripAdvisor reviews ↗](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Search?q=Hanalei%20Bay%20resort%20Kauai) Check rates → ![Thatched roof luxury bungalows beside a black lava rock bay on the Kohala Coast of Hawaii](/img/hawaii/card-kona-village-1200-1200w.webp) #07 Kahuwai Bay, Kohala Coast, Big Island · Big Island ### 07\. Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort From about USD 1,400/night. Indicative rate, not a checked quote. [Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort](#compare) is the low density counterweight to Hualalai on the same coast: standalone hales rather than blocks, set around a lava fringed bay. If Hualalai feels too polished, this is the alternative without leaving the Kohala Coast. Unique Selling Points Highlight Standalone hales Highlight Lava bay Highlight Low density Highlight Standalone hales with genuine separation between guests Highlight Same Kohala Coast access to volcanoes, waterfalls and snorkelling Water and beach Low density, so the beach and pools never feel like a resort strip **Best for:** Standalone hales on a lava fringed bay **Watch out:** Rates approach Hualalai without the seven pool infrastructure > “The Kohala choice for people who want the coast without the crowd. Hualalai is the choice for people who want the facilities.” > > Luxury Hotel Compare editorial note [TripAdvisor reviews ↗](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Search?q=Kona%20Village%20A%20Rosewood%20Resort) Check rates → Staying connected #### Airalo eSIM Data the moment you land, no roaming bill and no queue at the airport kiosk. [See Airalo plans →](https://airalo.tpx.lt/XJUpu9hS) ![Contemporary resort infinity pool at dusk overlooking lava fields and the ocean on the Kohala Coast](/img/hawaii/card-mauna-lani-1200-1200w.webp) #08 Kohala Coast, Big Island · Big Island ### 08\. Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection From about USD 1,000/night. Indicative rate, not a checked quote. [Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection](#compare) is the contemporary Kohala option, and the one that leans hardest into the site's history and the ancient fishponds on the property. It is the most design forward of the three Big Island entries here. Unique Selling Points Highlight Contemporary Highlight Fishponds Highlight Snorkelling Highlight The most contemporary interiors on the Kohala Coast Highlight Strong snorkelling directly off the property Provenance Cultural programming built around the historic fishponds **Best for:** Design led Kohala Coast alternative **Watch out:** Less child specific infrastructure than Hualalai > “The Big Island pick if the architecture matters to you as much as the water does.” > > Luxury Hotel Compare editorial note [TripAdvisor reviews ↗](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Search?q=Mauna%20Lani%20Auberge%20Resorts%20Collection) Check rates → ![Exterior and water gardens at Grand Wailea, a Waldorf Astoria Resort](/images/hotels/press/grand-wailea-maui-1-1200w.webp "Exterior and water gardens at Grand Wailea, a Waldorf Astoria Resort") ![Hibiscus adults only serenity pool at Grand Wailea, Maui](/images/hotels/press/grand-wailea-maui-2-1200w.webp "Hibiscus adults only serenity pool at Grand Wailea, Maui") ![Sunset over the oceanfront lawn at Grand Wailea, Maui](/images/hotels/press/grand-wailea-maui-3-1200w.webp "Sunset over the oceanfront lawn at Grand Wailea, Maui") ![Nobu terrace at sunset, Grand Wailea, Maui](/images/hotels/press/grand-wailea-maui-4-1200w.webp "Nobu terrace at sunset, Grand Wailea, Maui") ![Aerial view of the pool complex at Grand Wailea, Maui](/images/hotels/press/grand-wailea-maui-5-1200w.webp "Aerial view of the pool complex at Grand Wailea, Maui") ‹› 1 / 5 #09 Wailea Beach, South Maui · Maui, Wailea ### 09\. Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort From about USD 800/night. Indicative rate, not a checked quote. [Grand Wailea](#compare) is the family flagship of the island, and it wins that category on infrastructure alone: a pool complex with waterslides and a lazy river that no other Hawaiian resort matches, plus a large spa. Unique Selling Points Families Family flagship Highlight Waterslides Highlight Lazy river Pool The best pool complex in Hawaii for children, by a wide margin Spa and wellness Large spa and a full activity programme Dining On Wailea Beach, with the restaurant strip in walking distance **Best for:** The family resort with the pool complex **Watch out:** Very large and very busy in school holidays > “If the children are under twelve, this beats every property above it on this list for the trip you will actually have.” > > Luxury Hotel Compare editorial note [TripAdvisor reviews ↗](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Search?q=Grand%20Wailea%20Waldorf%20Astoria) Check rates → ![Tiered infinity pools cascading toward the ocean at a contemporary Maui resort at sunset](/img/hawaii/card-andaz-1200-1200w.webp) #10 Mokapu Beach, Wailea, South Maui · Maui, Wailea ### 10\. Andaz Maui at Mokapu Beach From about USD 850/night. Indicative rate, not a checked quote. [Andaz Maui at Mokapu Beach](#compare) is the modern counterpoint to the Four Seasons' classic register: contemporary, more intimate, and home to one of the most photographed infinity pool complexes in Hawaii. Unique Selling Points Highlight Contemporary Pool Tiered infinity pools Highlight Intimate Highlight Contemporary design in a strip dominated by classic resorts Highlight Smaller and more intimate than its Wailea neighbours Pool Tiered infinity pools directly above Mokapu Beach **Best for:** The contemporary Wailea alternative **Watch out:** Smaller beach frontage than Four Seasons or Grand Wailea > “Book Andaz if the Four Seasons interiors feel like your parents' Hawaii. Same beach strip, different decade.” > > Luxury Hotel Compare editorial note [TripAdvisor reviews ↗](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Search?q=Andaz%20Maui%20at%20Mokapu%20Beach) Check rates → ![Hillside luxury resort above the ocean in West Maui with golf fairway, lawns and tall palms](/img/hawaii/card-ritz-kapalua-1200-1200w.webp) #11 Kapalua, West Maui · Maui, Kapalua ### 11\. The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua From about USD 750/night. Indicative rate, not a checked quote. [The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua](#compare) is set across thousands of acres with hiking, golf and cultural programming, which makes it the West Maui property for people who do not intend to spend the week on a lounger. Unique Selling Points Highlight Hiking Sport Golf Highlight Cultural programming Getting there Hiking and golf on the property, not a drive away Highlight Cultural programming with genuine local involvement Highlight Cooler and greener than the South Maui resorts **Best for:** Hiking, golf and programming in West Maui **Watch out:** Set back above the coast rather than on the beach > “The activity option in West Maui. If you want to walk out of your room onto sand, this is not it.” > > Luxury Hotel Compare editorial note [TripAdvisor reviews ↗](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Search?q=Ritz%20Carlton%20Maui%20Kapalua) Check rates → ![Small adults only hotel pool deck on a Maui hillside with bougainvillea and a wide ocean view](/img/hawaii/card-hotel-wailea-1200-1200w.webp) #12 Wailea hillside, South Maui · Maui, Wailea ### 12\. Hotel Wailea From about USD 700/night. Indicative rate, not a checked quote. [Hotel Wailea](#compare) is Relais & Châteaux and adults only, which makes it the quietest booking in South Maui and the only genuinely small property on this list. Unique Selling Points Highlight Relais & Châteaux Atmosphere Adults only Highlight Hillside views Pool Adults only, and small enough that the pool never fills Service Relais & Châteaux standards of food and service Water and beach Hillside position gives wide ocean and outer island views **Best for:** Adults only, small and quiet above Wailea **Watch out:** Not on the beach, so every swim is a short drive or shuttle > “The right Wailea booking for a couple who want dinner to be the event and the beach to be optional.” > > Luxury Hotel Compare editorial note [TripAdvisor reviews ↗](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Search?q=Hotel%20Wailea%20Maui) Check rates → ![Clear calm snorkelling bay in West Maui with palms and an all suite resort set back from the beach](/img/hawaii/card-kapalua-bay-1200-1200w.webp) #13 Kapalua Bay, West Maui · Maui, Kapalua ### 13\. The Resort at Kapalua Bay From about USD 650/night. Indicative rate, not a checked quote. [The Resort at Kapalua Bay](#compare) is all suite, and its argument is the water: Kapalua Bay is among the clearest and calmest snorkelling bays on the island, which is not something Wailea can claim. Unique Selling Points Rooms All suite Highlight Snorkelling bay Highlight Self catering Highlight Kapalua Bay is among the calmest and clearest snorkelling on Maui Rooms All suite, with kitchens for longer self catering stays Highlight Quieter and greener than the South Maui strip **Best for:** All suite stay on the best snorkelling bay **Watch out:** West Maui, so read the section below before booking > “Book it for the bay. Kapalua Bay is the swim that people remember from a Maui trip.” > > Luxury Hotel Compare editorial note [TripAdvisor reviews ↗](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Search?q=The%20Resort%20at%20Kapalua%20Bay) Check rates → ![Oceanfront hotel in Honolulu Oahu with a palm lined pool, beach and Diamond Head in the distance](/img/hawaii/card-oahu-1200-1200w.webp) #14 Honolulu and Ko Olina, Oahu · Oahu ### 14\. Oahu, the island to verify before you book From about USD 600/night. Indicative rate, not a checked quote. Oahu has the best flight access in the state and the only real city, but it is the weakest island for resort luxury, and Luxury Hotel Compare will not rank properties it has not confirmed. The shortlist worth checking is Halekulani, Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina and The Kahala. Compare live availability [across Honolulu and Ko Olina](#compare) and judge on the dates you want. Unique Selling Points Highlight Unverified tier Highlight City and resort Highlight Best flight access Highlight Best flight access in the state, and the widest schedule from the mainland Water and beach The only island where a city stay and a beach stay can be combined easily Highlight Rates undercut Maui and the Kohala Coast for equivalent categories **Best for:** Best access, weakest resort tier **Watch out:** The weakest island for genuine resort luxury > “Fly into Oahu, and sleep somewhere else, unless the city is the point of the trip.” > > Luxury Hotel Compare editorial note [TripAdvisor reviews ↗](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Search?q=Luxury%20hotels%20Honolulu%20Oahu) Check rates → Best months: **April to June and September to November** ## The Hawaiian year at a glance Temperatures are typical daily highs at sea level. Season shading reflects the trip rather than the thermometer: December is marked off because of holiday crowding and pricing, and July and August because of school holiday volume, not weather. Jan 26°C · Busy Feb 26°C · Whales Mar 26°C · Whales Apr 27°C · Quiet May 28°C · Best Jun 29°C · Best Jul 30°C · Crowds Aug 31°C · Crowds Sep 31°C · Best Oct 30°C · Quiet Nov 28°C · Quiet Dec 27°C · Avoid Peak Season Shoulder Off Season ## Hawaii luxury resorts FAQ - ### Which Hawaiian island is best for a first visit? − Maui, for most first timers. Ka'anapali and Wailea both offer walkable resort areas with strong dining and calm beaches, the flight schedule is good, and the island supports a week without repetition. Kauai is the better first visit only if scenery and hiking matter more to you than dining and resort infrastructure. - ### Maui or Kauai? + Maui for dining, calm swimming beaches and resort choice. Kauai for scenery, hiking and a slower trip in noticeably more rugged surroundings. Kauai's North Shore is at its best from May to September, and outside that window the rain is a genuine planning factor rather than an inconvenience. Both islands need a rental car. - ### Which island has the best luxury resorts? + The Big Island and Maui share it. [Four Seasons Resort Hualalai](https://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-101801746-17288959?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fsearchresults.html%3Fss%3DFour%2BSeasons%2BResort%2BHualalai%2BKailua%2BKona%2BHawaii%26checkin%3D2026-10-21%26checkout%3D2026-10-23%26group_adults%3D2%26no_rooms%3D1%26group_children%3D0) on the Kohala Coast is the state's benchmark, with native lava rock architecture and seven pools, while Maui offers the greatest depth of five star choice across Wailea and Kapalua. Lanai wins outright if privacy is your single priority. - ### Is Hawaii cheaper than the Maldives? + Yes, and by a wide margin. A typical Hawaii honeymoon budget runs 3,000 to 8,000 US dollars against 10,000 to 25,000 for the Maldives, before you count 20 to 24 hours of flying and a passport. Hawaii is the accessible luxury beach option for American travellers. - ### Do I need a rental car in Hawaii? + On Maui, the Big Island and Kauai, yes, and you should book it when you book the flight. Resort areas are walkable but everything beyond them is not. Lanai needs no car because there is nowhere to drive. Oahu is the one island where you can manage without one in Waikiki. - ### What are resort fees and how much should I expect? + Almost every Hawaiian resort adds a daily resort fee covering wifi, activities and sometimes parking, charged on top of the room rate and on top of parking in many cases. At the luxury end expect roughly USD 40 to 60 a day in resort fees, plus USD 35 to 60 a day for valet or self parking. On a seven night stay that is commonly USD 600 to 800 before you have bought anything. Budget for it as a real line item rather than an extra. - ### Can I visit more than one island in a week? + You can, but it costs you a day at each end of the hop, and inter island flights plus two check ins usually eat more of the week than people expect. One island in a week is the right pace. Two islands work comfortably over ten to fourteen nights. - ### When is the cheapest time to visit Hawaii? + April to June and September to November carry the lowest rates and the smallest crowds. Avoid the winter holiday season entirely: it is extremely crowded and the experience is measurably diminished for the money. March is the exception worth paying for, because whale watching off Maui peaks then. - ### Is Four Seasons Hualalai worth the premium over Maui? + It is if the resort itself is the holiday. Hualalai's seven pools, King's Pond and oceanfront golf are hard to match on Maui, and the Big Island puts volcanoes, waterfalls and strong snorkelling inside a day trip. Choose Maui instead if you want dining variety outside the resort gates. - ### Is West Maui open to visitors? + Yes. Ka'anapali and Kapalua resorts, restaurants and tour operators are operating and local livelihoods depend on visitors returning. Lahaina town is still rebuilding after the August 2023 wildfire, with much of the historic core closed. Visit respectfully, spend locally, and treat closed areas as closed. Related Guides ## Keep reading [![All-inclusive resort infinity pool above the sea](/images/blog/best-luxury-all-inclusive-resorts/hero.webp) ### Best Luxury All-Inclusive Resorts Adults-only escapes where all-in actually means luxury. Read guide → ](/travel-guides/best-luxury-all-inclusive-resorts)[![Couples resort island in the Maldives at dusk](/images/blog/maldives-honeymoon-hero.webp) ### Best Maldives Honeymoon Resorts 2026 Adults-only and couples-first islands, with real pricing. Read guide → Verified 12 Jul 2026 ](/travel-guides/best-maldives-honeymoon-resorts-2026)[![Resort featured in The White Lotus television series](/images/blog/white-lotus-hotels-every-season/hero.webp) ### Every White Lotus Hotel, Ranked Sicily, Hawaii, Thailand, and what each really costs. Read guide → Verified 12 Jul 2026 ](/travel-guides/white-lotus-hotels-every-season) ## Ready to book your Hawaii trip? Compare live rates at every resort above and search Hawaii wide luxury availability on Booking.com. [Search All Hawaii Resorts](https://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-101801746-17288959?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fsearchresults.html%3Fss%3DLuxury%2Bresorts%2BHawaii%26checkin%3D2026-10-21%26checkout%3D2026-10-23%26group_adults%3D2%26no_rooms%3D1%26group_children%3D0) From $600 /night [Check prices](https://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-101801746-17288959) [L ](/) Luxury Hotel Compare Independent reviews of the world's best hotels, written by someone who actually cares. 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