At first glance, the spirit of Hawaii feels full of contradictions; it’s both adventurous and relaxing. Joyfully cosmopolitan and richly Indigenous. But that’s the beauty of Hawaii; whatever you’re looking for, you’ll find it among the azure shores.
Pro tip for your getaway: Choose the right airline
Your island adventure begins the moment you take off. Hawaiian Airlines brings authentic Hawaiian hospitality from takeoff to landing. Enjoy island-inspired cuisine, state-of-the-art entertainment and a touch of aloha on every journey!
What awaits is a tapestry of experiences that feel tailor-made for Aussie travellers. The beaches are iconic, from Waikiki’s lively surf breaks to the golden crescents of Maui and the dramatic black-sand shores of the Big Island. If you’re particularly adventurous, you’ll be happy to hear that outdoor adventure is woven into daily life. You can go hiking through volcanic landscapes, snorkelling with manta rays, or simply chasing sunsets with a Mai Tai in hand.
What’s more is that for foodies, Hawaii delivers in spades, with farm-to-table dining, ocean-fresh seafood, and a thriving mix of Japanese, Polynesian, and contemporary American flavours.
And best of all? It’s closer than you think. With direct flights from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, the Hawaiian Islands are an easy Pacific hop (no jetlag gymnastics required), making them an ideal escape for a week of sun-drenched downtime or a longer, island-hopping odyssey.
Yet beyond the beaches and the poke bowls lies a deeper connection: Hawaiians’ profound respect for the land, sea and community. For Australians accustomed to wide open spaces and coastal living, there’s an instant kinship in that ethos. Whether you’re seeking luxury resorts, boutique wellness retreats, or family-friendly adventure, Hawaii’s blend of natural beauty, cultural richness and effortless accessibility makes it one of the most rewarding international getaways right now.
Here, we’ve rounded up our favourite Hawaii hotels for you to book on your next trip.
The best hotels to book in Hawaii
Best for: Families and travellers who want both beach serenity with the city nearby
Set just ten minutes from Waikiki but feeling worlds away, The Kahala Hotel & Resort is a Honolulu icon. With its own private lagoon (home to resident dolphins), elegant ocean-facing rooms, and a tranquil beach far quieter than its Waikiki neighbours, it’s the perfect mix of city access and coastal calm. There are 338 rooms to choose from, each coming with incomparable views of the Pacific Ocean and Ko’olau Mountain Range.
Expect days to flow from spa indulgence to beachfront dining, while evenings call for champagne at Hoku’s and walks under the palms. The hotel’s timeless glamour and family-friendly spirit make it as beloved by return guests as it is by first-time visitors discovering its understated luxury.
Key features:
- Private lagoon with dolphins
- Oceanfront rooms and suites with private lanais (outdoor living space)
- Five on-site restaurants, including fine dining at Hoku’s
- CHI Health & Energy Fitness Spa
- Secluded stretch of sandy beach, minutes from Waikiki
Available at:
Best for: Couples seeking privacy, romance and adults-only exclusivity
A rare adults-only retreat in Hawaii, Hotel Wailea sits perched above the coast, with sweeping views of the Pacific and neighbouring islands. Its design is lush and intimate. Tree-canopied pathways wind between just 72 suites, each with private lanais (you’ll also enjoy your own personal concierge during your stay).
You can spend days in private cabanas, take outrigger canoe lessons, or enjoy fresh island cuisine at the award-winning restaurant. A dedicated beach valet ensures you’re always set for Wailea’s golden sands. Romantic, quiet and effortlessly chic, Hotel Wailea proves that Maui can be both glamorous and genuinely intimate.
Key features:
- Adults-only
- Private lanais and ocean or garden views
- Award-winning Restaurant at Hotel Wailea
- Beach valet with chauffeured service to Wailea Beach
- Wellness experiences: yoga, outrigger canoeing, aerial silks
Available at:
Best for: Sophisticated travellers looking for timeless glamour and impeccable service
Halekulani is Waikiki’s grande dame. A serene, all-white oceanfront haven where subtle luxury reigns supreme. Its legendary bar “House Without a Key” is the quintessential sunset setting, complete with live Hawaiian music under the century-old kiawe tree. Rooms are spacious and refined, many opening onto Diamond Head or ocean views, and the property’s Orchid Pool is a Waikiki landmark.
Add in one of Hawaii’s top spas and award-winning dining at La Mer, and Halekulani’s reputation as Oahu’s most elegant address becomes crystal clear.
Key features:
- Rooms and suites with Diamond Head views
- Iconic House Without a Key (sunset cocktails + live music)
- Fine dining at La Mer
- Orchid mosaic-tiled freshwater pool
- Spa Halekulani with Polynesian-inspired treatments
Available at:
Best for: Families and couples wanting immersive luxury and authentic Big Island adventure
On the volcanic Kona coast, the Four Seasons Resort Hualālai feels like a private paradise carved into black lava fields and coconut groves. Its design blends Hawaiian tradition with polished opulence: open-air suites, a Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course, and seven pools (including a salt-water pond stocked with tropical fish).
The dining scene celebrates Big Island flavours, while the spa incorporates native healing traditions. You can enjoy snorkelling in crystal waters or stargazing under the clearest skies in the Pacific. Hualālai is the ultimate expression of Big Island indulgence.
Key features:
- Jack Nicklaus-designed Hualālai Golf Course
- Seven pools, including King’s Pond with tropical fish and rays
- Hawaiian-inspired spa and fitness center
- Restaurants highlighting local, seasonal ingredients
Available at:
Best for: Multi-generational families wanting space without sacrificing service
Montage Kapalua Bay combines the comforts of a private residence with the high touch of a luxury resort. Its spacious multi-room villas come complete with full kitchens, expansive lanais and sweeping views of Kapalua Bay, making it ideal for longer stays or family gatherings.
The resort’s Cliff House is an unforgettable spot for private dining over the ocean, while its spa and multiple pools (including an infinity pool terraced into the cliffside) make relaxation effortless. With access to world-class golf, snorkelling and hiking, Montage delivers both activity and serenity in equal measure.
Key features:
- Multi-bedroom residential-style villas with kitchens
- Infinity-edge pool overlooking Kapalua Bay
- The Cliff House for private oceanfront dining
- Full-service spa and cultural wellness experiences
- Access to championship golf and snorkelling at Kapalua
Available at:
What’s the best way to travel to Hawaii?
Flying is the easiest way to reach the islands, and Hawaiian Airlines makes it as simple as possible. From check-in to landing, enjoy authentic Hawaiian hospitality, island-inspired meals, in-flight entertainment and thoughtful services like special assistance or pet travel. It’s a smooth, stress-free way to start your holiday!
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- The best resorts in Queensland for a serene escape in 2025
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