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The 5 Best Hawaiian Islands & Where to Stay When You Visit

posted in: Guides  |  posted by: Jennifer Gregory on July 12, 2009  |  No Comments

There are seven main islands in the Pacific Ocean cluster known as Hawaii. All are accessible to tourists and visitors but some provide a better backdrop for a vacation experience than others. Check out some of the most popular Hawaiian Islands and learn about some of the most popular resorts on each.

5.  Maui

The beautiful island of Maui is oozing with friendly people, fresh produce, local restaurants serving traditional Hawaiian fare, and much more. In between morning safaris and afternoons on the beach you’ll want to make sure you have a cozy place to return to. Fortunately, the island is also jam packed with classy resorts featuring incredible golf courses and luxurious spas. So where should you head?

castle-kamaole-sands

Make sure you check out the Castle Kamaole Sands. It’s not just a hotel, but a condominium/apartment style resort with spacious rooms that won’t make you feel crammed even if you’re traveling with the kids. Suites with one, two, or three bedrooms are available, making this the perfect resort for large families or groups traveling together.

castle-kamaole-sands-staircase

The resort, one of the most popular on the island of Maui features dozens of entertaining amenities. You’ll never tire of talking the 15 acres of land as you view the tropical gardens, waterfalls, and incredible fountains. The resort houses a beautiful pool as well as two jet spas and a handful of quiet barbecue pits for your enjoyment.

4. Kauai

The Hawaiian island of Kauai is a favorite amongst those who enjoy eco-focused activities, so you’ll enjoy hiking through the stunning Kokee State Park as you attempt to find Waimea Canyon. Adventurers will also enjoy hiking along the Napali Coast and sailing the waters where – if you’re lucky – you may just get to meet some of the local dolphins and sea turtles.

kauai-coast-resort-hawaii

You will, of course, need a quiet place to rest after all of that activity. The Kauai Coast Resort sits right on the beach where you’ll enjoy watching the stunning Kauai sunrise each morning. The hotel itself features a swimming pool and a separate children’s pool while the on-site Hukilau restaurant serves amazing pacific cuisine.

castle-kiahuna-plantation-beach-bungalows

Perhaps you’d enjoy something a bit more intimate. If that’s the case you’ll want to check out the Castle Kiahuna Plantation & Beach Bungalows. Each private suite gives visitors beautiful views of either the ocean or the plantation’s gardens and features a full kitchen as well as extra amenities to make you and your family feel right at home.

3. Hawaii

On the island of Hawaii, also known as the Big Island, you’ll find a welcoming blend of both luxurious resorts and out-of-the way bungalows. Variety is the spice of life so make sure you spend some time on the Big Island exploring the hidden mountain trails as well as in the local villages meeting the people and tasting some of the region’s unique cuisine.

kona-coast-resort-hawaii

A popular resort amongst tourists it the Kona Coast Resort. Here you’ll find yourself situated within a comfortable condominium unit surrounded by the tranquil Keauhou Gardens. The pools, Jacuzzis, fitness center, and sauna will give you plenty of opportunity to relax and unwind after a long day on the island.

paniolo-greens-resort-hawaii

Another great option is the Paniolo Greens Resort Hawaii. The resort is made up of two-bedroom condominiums  – perfect for larger groups – each with two bathrooms and a full kitchen. This particular resort is about 8 miles away from the coast. It’s far enough away to be quiet yet close enough to remain convenient.

2. Lanai

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The island of Lanai is a small, private island set to the west of Maui. The romantic island is the perfect destinations for couples and even provides a great backdrop for families looking to spend some real, quality time together. On the island you’ll enjoy four-wheeling to the gardens at Keahiakaweb, visiting the dolphins in Hulope Bay, and maybe even playing a round of golf at one of the island’s championship golf courses.

four-seasons-resort1

Only the most luxurious resorts will do on Lanai and one of the most popular is the Four Seasons Resort, Lana’I at Manele Bay. This ocean-side paradise sits on the island’s white sandy beaches, houses an astounding marine preserve, and features some of the most elegant Asian décor you’ll see on this gorgeous pacific island.

1. Oahu

Last, but certainly not least, is the beautiful island of Oahu. Here you’ll have the opportunity to live life like the locals and what better way is there to do that than to eat like them? In between trips to the beach and out into the wild you’ll want to make sure you sample some of the island’s best local restaurants, even stopping to taste the shrimp at one of the roadside carts.

makaha-resort-golf-club

One of the most popular places to stay on Oahu is the Makaha Resort Golf Club. Set in the amazing Makaha Valley, this resort is far enough away from Waikiki to make you feel as though you’re on a separate secluded island yet, only 45 minutes from the city, close enough to be not entirely inconvenient. You’ll enjoy the pool, 18-hole golf course, and watching the sunset over the Waianee mountains.

No matter which island you end up on you’re bound to have a vacation experience you’ll always remember. And – don’t forget – just because you stay on one doesn’t mean you can’t take a day trip to tour the others!

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