Create long-lasting memories for the family album at the best family resorts in Hawaii.
Travel enthusiasts have always recognised Hawaii as a paradise destination, with its natural beauty, glorious beaches and warm weather. So where better to take the family for an escape that’s equal parts fun and relaxing? From free-roaming Disney characters to splashy waterparks and day spas for the adults to recharge their batteries, we’ve narrowed down our favourite pick of Hawaii’s luxurious resorts offering fun for the entire family.
Our top pick for kids: Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa
Paradise meets pop culture at the spectacular Aulani Resort, at Ko Olina. This beautiful resort is full of Disney magic. Your little ones will adore meeting Disney characters, eating character-themed foods and playing on the water slides, rapids, lazy river and themed pools.
The little touches of Disney in your suite and throughout the resort are also guaranteed to inspire delight. Outside, you’ll find a wonderland for little water lovers. Kids can play in the sprawling pools, water features, splash zones, whirlpool spas, grotto and the amazing 350-square-metre private snorkelling lagoon while you relax in a private cabana. Beyond that, beach games, light painting, a games hall, a kids’ makeup studio and cultural experiences will keep them entertained for hours.
Why should the kids have all the fun, though? Enjoy a spa session or a cocktail at one of the four lounges and bars. Maybe you’d prefer a game of tennis, a jet ski ride or a sea-life cruise? Whatever fun your family can imagine, you’ll find it at this phenomenal resort.
From city to coast at Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort
If you like being close to the city and its attractions, but also want to laze on Hawaii’s most popular beach and experience cultural traditions, you’ll love a stay at Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort.
Admire the glorious views of the ocean or Diamond Head from each comfortable and well-appointed room. There’s a huge range of resort amenities for the whole family, such as the generously sized outdoor pool with private cabanas, hot tubs, a first-class gym and a range of onsite stores. There’s also an amazing activities centre where you can take part in cultural activities and learn about the spirit of the island.
During your downtime, head down to the beach for surfing, snorkelling, canoeing and swimming. At night, let the kids rock out on the dance floor with nightly live music at the poolside restaurant.
Splashin’ around at Sheraton Waikiki
Sheraton Waikiki offers seaside luxury for the whole family. The star attraction for kids is the exciting Helumoa Playground Pool, which offers endless entertainment with two pools, a huge water slide, an interactive kids’ fountain and a scenic deck for supervising parents.
You’ll arrive to light, airy rooms with breathtaking views of the ocean. Once you’ve settled in, your family can acquaint themselves with Hawaiian tradition by participating in the resort’s cultural activities, such as flower lei making, ukulele lessons and hula dancing. Poppins Daycare will entertain the kids with arts and crafts, beach and pool activities, games, books and educational activities.
Meanwhile, the adults can relax in the infinity pool, or enjoy a craft beer while admiring island vistas at the RumFire restaurant. When you’re ready to venture beyond your resort, explore local attractions like Waikiki Aquarium, Honolulu Zoo, Sea Life Animal Park and Pearl Harbour.
Ocean wonders at Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach
Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach is a stylish haven in the heart of Waikiki, right next to Kuhio Beach. Besides its contemporary, designer features, this resort’s drawcard is its phenomenal 75,700-litre Oceanarium where you can watch the colourful sea life being fed while you relax with a coffee at the O Bar.
The resort’s sun-soaked pool deck is the place to be. By day, the kids can swim while you relax in a private cabana. By night, twinkling lanterns, fire pits and live music add a touch of magic. Head down to the beach and use your complimentary Beach Candy credits to hire surfboards, paddle boards and inflatables. Nearby, you’ll find Pearl Harbour, submarine tours, museums and art galleries, horse riding, an adventure park and so much more.
For more inspiration on planning your Hawaii getaway, read 5 Reasons Why Maui is the Mother of Family Holidays.
