The Most Family-Friendly Hotels in Hawaii, USA

Hawaii is an ideal destination for a family vacation
Hawaii is an ideal destination for a family vacation | © Al Argueta / Alamy Stock Photo
Siobhan Grogan

Laid-back, sunny and packed with attractions, Hawaii is a dream destination for families of all ages. Kids can spend days on powder-soft beaches, snorkeling in crystal-clear water, or escape the heat at aquariums, museums and shopping malls throughout the Aloha State. Choose a family-friendly resort and excellent kids’ clubs – free ukulele lessons and waterslides will mean everyone will be begging to return.

1. Halekulani

Resort, Hotel

A white living room with a sofa, armchair and desk leading out to a private terrace at Halekulani
Courtesy of Halekulani / Expedia
Having the kids in tow doesn’t mean giving up on luxury at this legendary beachfront property in Waikiki. There are no kids’ pools or gimmicks here – but families looking for quality time together will love the giant suites, free museum entry and local entertainment, including hula dancers and Hawaiian music, and a range of dining options. These include a grab-and-go bakery, fantastic room service and an unmissable Sunday brunch with a mind-blowing ice cream station.

2. Aston Waikiki Beach Tower

Hotel

A double bedroom at Aston Waikiki Beach Tower with grey carpet and a TV opposite a white bed
Courtesy of Aston Waikiki Beach Tower / Expedia

Families know there will be fun ahead from the moment they check into this all-suite accommodation in the center of Waikiki. Children are presented with complimentary toys and a sand bucket, while the large one- and two-bedroom suites with kitchens mean families can really feel at home and take care of mealtimes on their own terms. There’s a dedicated children’s pool, a barbecue grill area, access to DVD movies and PlayStation games and even free classes in hula dancing and the ukulele.

3. Waikiki Beachcomber by Outrigger

Apartment

A white twin room at Waikiki Beachcomber by Outrigger with a private terrace overlooking the sea
Courtesy of Waikiki Beachcomber by Outrigger / Expedia

There’s plenty to see and do at Hawaii’s first and only craft hotel, curated by local artists and influencers. From movie nights and daily live music to life-size ocean-inspired art and cultural evenings, even the most restless family will be kept busy. Days can be spent surfing, snorkeling and swimming at Waikiki Beach or visiting nearby family-friendly attractions including Kapiolani Park and the Waikiki Aquarium, which children staying at the hotel can visit for free with a paying adult.

5. Aulani, Disney Vacation Club Villas

Hotel, Resort, Luxury

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Courtesy of Aulani, Disney Vacation Club Villas / Expedia

Want a little more space to spread out during your holiday? The Disney Vacation Club Villas are perfect for families looking to feel at home – but wanting all the perks of a hotel on hand. Villas sleep between four and 12 people and include parking for up to two vehicles if you want to get out and explore the island. However, kids may be reluctant to leave once they discover the resort’s own beach, water park, snorkeling lagoon and kids’ club.

6. Ho'olei at Grand Wailea

Luxury, Boutique Hotel

A cream-coloured and spacious bedroom at Hoolei at Grand Wailea with a double bed, blue artwork and a large garden
Courtesy of Ho'olei at Grand Wailea / Expedia

Even the noisiest family won’t disturb the neighbors at this elegant enclave next to Waldorf Astoria’s Grand Wailea. Every two-story villa has between 3,200 and 4,000sqft (300-372sqm) of space with a private balcony, private elevator, garage and full kitchen. Nonetheless, you still won’t need to rustle up dinner – guests have access to all the amenities at Grand Wailea, including eight restaurants and bars, nine pools including one with a 19ft (6m) waterfall and the enormous Camp Grande to entertain kids between five and 12.

7. Espacio the Jewel of Waikiki

Spa Hotel

A white double bed in a room at Espacio the Jewel of Waikiki, with a private terrace overlooking the sea
Courtesy of ESPACIO THE JEWEL OF WAIKIKI / Expedia

If a family vacation means complete relaxation, the exquisite Espacio will surpass even your wildest dreams. Two- or three-bedroom suites occupy an entire floor of the building and have their own oceanfront jacuzzi on every balcony, while a butler is on hand to take care of every detail. There’s a spa, restaurant and rooftop infinity pool, while museum admission, in-suite continental breakfast and luxury car rental are all thrown in free.

8. Coconut Waikiki Hotel

Boutique Hotel

A room at Coconut Waikiki Hotel with a single bed, desk and grey carpet
Courtesy of Coconut Waikiki Hotel / Expedia

Check in and get on with the holiday-of-a-lifetime at this family-friendly boutique hotel, five minutes from Waikiki Beach. Everything is taken care of – from the complimentary breakfast to the free beach towels – so you can all relax together by the heated pool or on the outdoor patio, stocked with barbecue grills and oversized garden games. There’s even juice in the lobby to stop the kids from running up a dreaded bill of extras.

If you’re looking for something different, check out the best luxury hotels in Maui, and read our guide to the top luxury hotels in Hawaii. They’re all bookable now on Culture Trip.

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