A Hawaiian vacation can mean many things. For the adventure buff it can mean zip lines, cliff climbing, and hiking the side of a volcano. For families it can mean kiddie pools and hula lessons. But if you’re going to Hawaii to be pampered, you’ll want to choose a resort that has experience spoiling their guests. Here are some great choices for a luxurious vacation.
Hawaii – On the Big Island, the place to be is the Mauna Lani Bay Hotel & Bungalows. From the moment you arrive the friendly and knowledgeable staff spoils you. Doze in a hammock steps from the ocean, then retreat to your bungalow for a sumptuous in room feast, massage, or dip in your own private pool.
Maui – If you’re staying on Maui you’ll want to try the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea. This The beautiful beach is steps from the water, with surf side amenities and drink service. The rooms are opulent and the staff is exceptional at pampering guests. Three excellent restaurants are on site, including Wolfgang Puck’s Spago.
Kauai – The St. Regis Princeville Resort is the pride of the Garden Island. Situated on the cliffs above Hanalei Bay, the waterfront rooms offer priceless views of the water, with an elevator to take you down to beach level. Visitors rave about the friendly and efficient staff, who will assist your every need. The Halele spa offers a truly hedonistic menu of treats, a top-notch athletic center and a full 18-hole golf course. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, visit the Kauai Grill, which was Zagats rated #1 in Hawaii. For the ultimate romantic splurge, you can arrange a private dinner for two on the beach, with your own personal chef, sommelier, and wait staff.
Oahu – If you want a taste of celebrity life, check out the Royal Hawaiian, the grande dame of Hawaiian resorts. For 87 years the “Pink Princess of the Pacific” has played host to the likes of Shirley Temple and Elizabeth Taylor. The staff treats everyone like a star, and pampering is de rigor. Abhasa, one of Waikiki’s best spas, is located on the property, as is the world-class Azure restaurant. For the pools at this hotel, there is only one on the property, though you can also use the Sheraton Waikiki’s pool next door, and the area is pretty small. The thing though when taking a vacation to Hawaii is that you come for the beaches, not the pools. At the Royal Hawaiian you are just steps away from the world famous Waikiki beach where you can rent a lounge chair on the beach and enjoy an amazing view of Diamond Head.