Suites and Lobbies has scoured, tested and approved these properties to make our list of the 5 best family hotels in Hawaii.
Be sure to also read…
Best Budget Friendly Hotels In Hawaii
What Makes a Great Family Hotel?
Children are welcome at most resorts but some just aren’t inclined to include families. Likewise, adults would grow weary of a Nickelodeon property where it’s hard to find respite. To be considered one of the best family hotels in Hawaii they need to offer opportunities for children and parents alike. These properties embody those principles.
Sheraton Waikiki
In the middle of Waikiki, the Sheraton is everything a family could hope for in Honolulu. Close to attractions like the Honolulu zoo, Diamond Head for hiking, and the USS Arizona memorial at Pearl Harbor are all reasons to stay at the oceanfront Sheraton on Waikiki beach.
The hotel is walking distance from shopping and restaurants that line the Waikiki area, convenient for families looking to spread their wings. The property is also known for its luaus which attract visitors from other properties in Honolulu. In addition to infinity pools for parents on higher floors, with a kids pool (complete with waterslides) at the beach level.
As a member of the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program, the Sheraton Waikiki is available for redemption of Bonvoy points at no cost to members.
Rooms start at $298, suites at $640. Rates do not include daily resort fees of $36, from which some Bonvoy members are exempt.
Hilton Hawaiian Village
Hilton’s crown complex on O’ahu is the venerable Hilton Hawaiian Village. The grounds constitute the widest single beach of any Hawaiian resort. Three Hilton properties on the property allow for varied Hilton guest experiences in each the Ali’i Boutique, Rainbow Tower, and Tapa Collection resorts.
What makes the Hilton Hawaiian Village so special for families is the wide selection of activities available. From water sports, kids clubs, and luaus to spas, dining and pools – the complex offers something for everyone.
Conveniently located in the Waikiki area of Honolulu, the resort is close to the airport, shopping, and excellent dining within walking distance of the property’s entrance. The Hilton continues to be one of the best family hotels in Hawaii every year.
Nights start at $178 plus a required $50/night resort fee. Some Hilton Honors elites may have the fee waived, more on Hilton Honors here.
Hilton Waikoloa
I have twice visited this property and love it more every night I stay. This is one of the most perfect family hotels for a number of reasons. The Hilton Waikoloa is easy to reach from Kona airport on the Big Island of Hawaii, a short 20-minute drive.
The property offers a kids club for kids aged 5 to 12 with activities around the property and arts and crafts. Daily activities are offered which may include ukulele lessons, hula lessons, or beach activities.
What makes the resort so unique and perfect for families is its unique lagoon. The property has an inlet from the ocean, whereby fresh seawater can enter and exit during high tide, but at low tide, only very small fish can manage through the rocky divide. What this creates is an excellent environment for snorkeling with children because there is little to no waves, but the beautiful sealife is able to enter and can be observed in a calm, shallow environment.
The property also have a Dolphin Quest facility on-site where guests can swim and interact with dolphins, learning about their environment and what humans can do to help.
Hilton Honors members at the Gold or Diamond level can eat free will enjoy an exemplary included breakfast for all registered guests in their room.
Rooms start from $220 nightly with suites about double.
Four Seasons Resort Hualalai
For the family seeking a premium experience, there really are few as luxurious as the Four Seasons Hualalai. One benefit that is unique to the Four Seasons is the expansiveness of its offerings. Focusing on suites and villas is helpful for families that need some extra space. It gives the feel of a beach house with the benefits of a resort.
Making the property more of a personal experience, the Four Seasons’ villas offer a full kitchen which helps families relax and make meals on their schedule.
One strength the Four Seasons possesses over other peers is the depth and breadth of its family services. It includes babysitting kids for all Seasons guests to give parents much needed time at the hot tub or swimming pools to themselves.
White sand and natural lava black sand both await guests along with infinity pools, an award winning golf course and luxury cuisine. For the family of means, little else will do, and this one continues to be one of the best family hotels in Hawaii.
Standard rooms start at $935 nightly, suites at $1,300, villas for more.
Aulani, A Disney Resort and Spa
The Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa adds a distinctly Mickey element to the islands. Connecting families with the Disney spirit as well as the Hawaiian culture makes Aulani different from every other resort in the islands.
Ko Olina is a group of resorts on the southwest corner of the island of O’aha, easily accessible by flight from Honolulu and by taxi to the properties. The secluded area of four resorts offers guests a distinct experience away from Waikiki.
Disney characters appear at dining facilities and around the property but really it’s the Disney guest service that stands out. The attention to detail that Disney has built their brand around is evident at Aulani.
The property features a lazy river, waterslides, white sand beach, and several spas including one focused and available solely for teens. Fireside chats and themed events are all conducted with children in mind which allows parents to relax and enjoy themselves. Standard rooms start at $382 based on five-night stays or longer, villas from $633 per night.
