The island archipelago of Hawaii is one of the most picturesque destinations in the world. Home to countless waterfalls, stunning coastal vistas and a handful of rainforest just in case, this island has it all.
The state of Hawaii is comprised of six main islands: Hawaii, Kauai, Oahu, Maui, Molokai and Lanai.From the great resorts of Kauai to the beach cabins of Turtle Bay, there’s a lodging option for every style of traveler.
It’s Hawaii’s natural beauty that attracts more than 8.3 million tourists each year.The highly active volcanoes of Hawaii’s Volcanoes National Park and the Thurston Lava Tube are some of the most breathtaking landscapes known to man.
Hawaii is also home to some of the best surfing spots in the world.The locals have a deeply spiritual connection to the sea, which you can feel when you see them riding the waves.
Let’s take a look at where to stay in Hawaii, what island and what neighborhood.
Kailua-Kona – Island of Hawaii
Kailua-Kona is one of the largest cities on the Big Island and is home to some of the most beloved cultural sites on the island.Within the city streets, you will find the Hulihee Palace and the Mokuaikaua Church, both landmarks dating back to 1800 and the Mokuaikaua Church is the oldest Christian church in Hawaii.
In the settlement of Honokōhau and Kaloko National Historical Park – Honokōhau, you will find another cultural gem preserved forever. This sacred park features ruins of ancient fish ponds and dozens of ancient petroglyphs. To this day, the settlement of Honokōhau and Kaloko National Historical Park – Honokōhau is a critically endangered turtle breeding site.
The beaches around Kailua-Kona offer some of the best snorkeling in Hawaii.
Area highlights:Hulihee Palace, Mokuaikaua Church, Honokōhau settlement and Kaloko National Historical Park-Honokōhau, Keauhou Bay, Hualālai, Honl’s Beach, Magic Sands Beach Park
Recommended hotels in Kailua-Kona
Kona Seaside Hotel:only two minutes walk from the beach, the Kona Seaside Hotel enjoys a perfect location.Guests can make use of the free WiFi connection throughout the hotel and the outdoor swimming pool. All rooms have TV, coffee maker and private bathroom.
Uncle Billy’s Kona Bay Hotel:a hotel with personality and lots of space to move around, guests have the option of staying in a double room or studio apartment.All rooms have air conditioning, refrigerator and TV with cable channels
Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel: a family oriented hotel offering ocean views and a pool complex There are two restaurants on site serving international cuisine throughout the day All rooms have a coffee maker and mini fridge Family rooms are available or adjoining rooms upon request.The hotel offers guests the use of the private beach area.
Volcano – Island of Hawaii
One of the most visited places in the entire state of Hawaii is the Hawaiian Volcanoes National Park, a living, breathing and burning example of Mother Nature at her best, lovers of the natural world will feel at home in Old Volcano Road.
Although this area has recently been evacuated due to eruptions, the town is alive and well.it is living proof of man’s resistance to the elements.if you wish to stay in this area of Hawaii, be sure to investigate before you travel for up-to-date information on volcano activity.
The active volcanoes of Kilauea and Mauna Loa are two of the most important in the world and are under constant surveillance by volcanologists, geologists and geographers.
For those who love landscape photography, Volcano is a dream come true. Remember that it only takes two hours to drive around the Big Island: all the other natural wonders of the area are within reach.
Area highlights: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Kilauea and Mauna Loa, Lava Tube Nāhuku – Thurston, Akatsuka Orchid Gardens, Sea Arch Hōlei, Beach Park Kaimū
Recommended hotels in Volcano
Kilauea Lodge: located in a beautiful 1938 house, Kilauea Lodge is an affordable family accommodation option.There are double, twin and family apartments available.the apartments can accommodate up to five people.the tropical breakfast is included in the room price and the hotel has a whirlpool bath and a large garden area.
Volcano Inn: The Volcano Inn is an eco-friendly accommodation option on Old Volcano Road with an impressive breakfast and American-style buffet every morning, one of three saltwater baths and a tropical garden, all rooms have private bathrooms with soft bathrobes and free toiletries.
Aloha Junction Bed & Breakfast:Traditional bed and breakfast accommodation with all modern conveniences Each room has a kitchen, electric fireplace and cable TV with Netflix Many rooms have their own private patio with outdoor furniture Breakfast is served at 8am each morning and free snacks are available throughout the day
Koloa – Kauai Island
The Koloa neighborhood on Kauai Island offers visitors the opportunity to experience authentic Hawaiian life while having access to all the facilities they desire in their dream vacation.
The island of Kauai is only 25 miles long and 33 miles wide, so it only takes 2.5 hours to drive. This means that wherever you choose to stay, you will never be too far from the jewels of Kauai.
There are many resort style hotels in the Koloa area that will meet all your needs. Several of these hotels offer all-inclusive packages, but if you decide to leave the resort, there is much to discover.
Did you know that the first successful sugar cane plantation in Hawaii was founded in this neighborhood in 1835? In 1948, it merged with Grove Farm to become one of the most successful plantations in the state.
Neighborhood Highlights: Old Koloa Town, Poipu Beach, Allerton Garden, Spouting Horn, Kauai ATV, Baby Beach, McBryde Garden, Shipwreck Beach, Koloa Zipline, Moir Gardens
Recommended Koloa Hotels
Sheraton Kauai Resort: this five-star resort offers guests an excellent gym, two outdoor pools and a private beach area.All rooms have air conditioning, cable TV, mini fridge and coffee maker.
Castle Kiahuna Plantation & The Beach Bungalow:Located a three minute walk from the beach, this hotel is located on a 35-acre property overlooking Poipu beach.
The Point at Poipu by Diamond Resort: a small boutique hotel just a six minute walk from the beach, The Point at Poipu offers one and two bedroom apartments with balconies, kitchens and private bathrooms.Guests have access to the gas barbeque on the shared patio terrace.
Kapaa – Kauai Island
If you want to be surrounded by Hawaii’s most abundant natural beauty, look no further than secluded Kapaa.This little-known neighborhood on the east coast of Kauai Island is a true hidden gem.
By retaining the heritage island vibe throughout the neighborhood, there is a strong sense of community in this CDP of 10,000 people.The main town of Kapaa has narrow streets lined with a wide range of independent craft shops and family restaurants.Kapaa has been named the most charming town on Kauai and it’s hard to argue otherwise.
If you really want to get into the swing of things, Hawaiian style, book a ukulele lesson at Kamo Ukulele Co. Founder Samuel Bonanno is passionate about the island’s national instrument and is happy to share his naanao (wisdom) with visitors who pass through
Ho’opi’i Falls is the most impressive natural wonder in the Kapaa neighborhood and is not to be missed.
Area highlights: Ho’opi’i Falls, Kapa’a Beach Park, Keālia Beach, Kamoa Ukulele Co, Kapaa Town Park, Lae Nani Beach, Houna Lani Garden, Sleeping Giant Trail, Fern Grotto, Kamokila Hawaiian Village Smith Family Garden Luau
Recommended hotels in Kapaa
Castle Kauai Kailani: Castle Kauai Kailana offers idyllic apartment rentals that provide guests with access to a small outdoor pool and sunny garden.All apartments are fully furnished, with a fully equipped kitchen, private bathroom and large bedroom.Family apartments and apartments for couples are available.wifi is free and unlimited throughout the property.
The ISO:these are some really great boutique studios overlooking the Pacific Ocean.each studio offers a coffee set and a drinks fridge.all apartments have been recently renovated and have a modern decor with a spacious and bright atmosphere.The Bull Shed Restaurant is open every day for dinner and specializes in locally-inspired seafood dishes.
Aston Islander On The Beach: Just a seven minute walk from the beach, the Aston Islander offers an ocean-front pool and a luxurious whirlpool bath.all rooms are air-conditioned and have a private balcony or mini-terrace.some rooms have an ocean view, others a garden view.guests have access to the tennis court and golf course.Ideal for couples.
Waikiki – Oahu
The Waikiki neighborhood is possibly the most popular tourist neighborhood in the entire state of Hawaii.
Offering easy access to Hawaii’s most important modern historical landmark, Pearl Harbor, Waikiki is the gateway to the state’s eventful past. There are a number of Pearl Harbor museums, monuments and memorials to explore to help you better understand the events of December 7, 1941.
In terms of natural wonders, Honolulu’s Waikiki neighborhood puts you in a great spot. Waikiki is just north of the dormant Diamond Head volcano, one of Oahu’s most iconic geographical landmarks.
Neighborhood Highlights:Diamond Head, Pearl Harbor, USS Arizona Memorial, Hanauma Bay, ‘Iolani Palace, Waikiki Aquarium, Polynesian Cultural Center, Royal Hawaiian Center, Lucoral Museum
Recommended Hotels in Waikiki
Imperial Hawaii Resort at Wakiki:These are spacious suites in the heart of the Waikiki neighborhood.Each suite has a double room and living room with a sofa bed, which sleeps up to 4 people, and guests have access to the hotel’s outdoor pool and fitness center.
Ilima Hotel: six minutes walk from the beach, the hotel offers a swimming pool, a gym and a terrace ideal for sunbathing.The studio apartments are bright, spacious and modern in design, with free WiFi throughout.
Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel: Right on the beachfront and next to Honolulu Zoo, all rooms have a classic Hawaiian touch, like the bright red walls and potted orchids.Many rooms offer ocean views from your balcony. there is a bar on site, as well as a decent pool and gym. parking available.
Kapolei – Oahu
Locally known as Oahu’s second city, Kapolei is located west of Honolulu on the south coast.
Giving you the option to retire to your resort or get out and explore, Kapolei is an ideal neighborhood for families in particular. There’s plenty of family fun at Kapolei, from the Wet’n’Wild Hawaii water park to the traditional dance performances at Chief’s Luau.
Wet’n’Wild is one of Hawaii’s most popular attractions and is loved by locals and visitors alike. The park spans 29 acres and features 25 amazing water features and slides.
Ko Olina Lagoons are one of Kapolei’s most beloved coastal features.Although artificial, Ko Olina Lagoons offer travelers some of the best sand beaches in southern Oahu. The four lagoons, called Hanu, Kolola, Napa and Ulu, are ideal swimming spots for children and are guarded by lifeguards throughout the day.
Neighborhood highlights: Wet’n’Wild Hawaii, Ko Olina Lagoons, Pearl Harbor, Naval Air Station Barbers Point Museum, Kahe Point Beach Park, Paradise Cove Beach, Chief’s Luau, Makaha Beach Park
Recommended hotels at Kapolei
Marriott’s Ko Olina Beach Club: one of the most recommended hotels in Kapolei, all rooms have a fully equipped kitchen, living room, dining room and laundry.Guests have access to the hotel’s pool, pool bar and spa, many rooms offer ocean views and a balcony, and the Marriott Ol Ko is only a minute’s walk from the beach.
Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina: This luxury beach resort has several restaurants and bars, with a spa complex as well.Guests can use the hotel’s tennis courts and golf course, as well as choose their own firm, luxurious or exclusive mattress cover and daily maid service. All rooms have a deep bathtub and floor-level shower.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Oahu Kapolei: Complimentary breakfast is included in all rates, continental or buffet style.The hotel has its own restaurant and bar, as well as a shared lounge and outdoor swimming pool. Guests can make use of the hot tub, fitness center and free shuttle service. The rooms are classically decorated, with modern amenities and comfortable beds.
Wailea – Maui
On the island of Maui is the little-known resort town of Wailea.Home to only 5,900 permanent residents and away from the crowds of resorts, Wailea offers visitors the opportunity to experience the tranquility and coastal beauty of Hawaii.
Being such an isolated location means that only premium hotels have initially settled here, only five of them.for travelers who want to feel they have Hawaii to themselves, Wailea is the best neighborhood for you.
Wailea is home to a vast expanse of exquisite white beaches, five to be exact… Convenient, isn’t it… Wailea Beach is the most impressive of them all and offers visitors great places to snorkel and calm down for a gentle swim…
Golfers will be delighted to learn about the courses that can be found here… Wailea Blue, Gold and Emerald have come together to create the 54-hole world championship course.
Neighborhood Highlights:Wailea Blue Golf Course, Wailea Gold Golf Course, Wailea Emerald Golf Course, The Shops at Wailea, Wailea Tennis Club, Wailea Point, Ulua Beach Park, Kamaole Beach, Oneuli Beach, Makena Beach
Recommended Hotels in Wailea
Residence Inn by Marriott Maui Wailea: this luxury hotel is only half a mile from Wailea Beach.It is a family resort with queen studios that can accommodate up to five people.All suites have fully equipped kitchens and a grocery shopping service is available.
Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort: Located on the beachfront with four infinity pools, two restaurants and a spa with a comprehensive treatment menu, Andaz is one of Maui’s most luxurious resorts.All rooms feature a private balcony, 40-inch flat-screen TV, minibar and coffee maker, and are an eco-award winner.
Grand Wailea Resort Hotel & Spa: Offering a children’s club for all ages, along with several pools, this is the perfect family resort in Wailea.All rooms have air conditioning, TV and WiFi, extremely comfortable beds and luxurious bathrooms.
Kaunakakai – Molokai
On the less visited island of Molokai is the coastal town of Kaunakakai. This picturesque and charming port town has only 3,500 residents, and offers visitors the opportunity to experience rustic Hawaii at its best.
For travelers who want to get away from the tourist routes and away from the crowds of tourists, Kaunakakai is a must.this place has frozen in time, or so it seems.
Kaunakakai is home to Hawaii’s longest pier, which extends over the reef below.the locals often fish for dinner on the pier and welcome visitors to try their luck as well.
There are several nice independent shops in Kaunakakai, including a couple of sumptuous bakeries.
Beach lovers will love Kaunakakai for its clean and quiet beaches; Kamiloloa Beach is the definition of a postcard paradise.
Neighborhood Highlights: Kamiloloa Beach, Kalaupapa National Historical Park, Kapuaiwa Coconut Grove, Halawa Valley, Papohaku Beach Park, One Alii Beach Park
Recommended Hotels in Kaunakakai
Castle Molokai Shores: These are beachfront apartment rentals with a tropical garden and full-size pool.Ideal for families, the apartments can accommodate up to four people.All rooms offer a view of the sea that is particularly beautiful at sunset.there is free WiFi throughout the establishment.
Hotel Molokai: a nice and cozy locally run hotel in Kaunakakai, many rooms have their own kitchen area, with microwave and mini fridge.some rooms have a private terrace.The hotel has a private outdoor swimming pool and a fully stocked bar.onsite parking available.
Ka Hale Kealoha: “Ka Hale Kealoha” translates to “House of Love”, and this locally owned apartment is ideal for couples on a romantic getaway.the 1 bedroom apartment overlooks the ocean, has a living room, private balcony and BBQ area.
