Honolulu Hawaii Hotels, Waikiki and Oahu Resorts - 2

Family-Friendly Oahu Hotels

JW Marriott Ihilani Resort & Spa

The gorgeous Ihilani offers guests a perfect blend of luxury and family-friendly accommodations. We’ve stayed here many times with our daughters. Located on the sunny, leeward side of Oahu, the resort overlooks a pristine white sand beach on the edge of one of four manmade lagoons. The water here is ideal for swimming, snorkeling or splashing around with the kids. If you tire of the beach, you can hit the spa, championship golf course or outdoor pool. The Keiki Beachcomber Club has daily indoor and outdoor activity programs for children ages 5 to 12.

Rates start at $249 per night. 92-1001 Olani St., Ko Olina Resort. Tel. 800-626-4446. www.ihilani.com

The Kahala Hotel and Resort

Our favorite hotel, however, is The Kahala. Close to the action but far enough away from the crowds, the property is a quick 10-minute drive from Waikiki and is located on a secluded beach with gentle surf. The resort combines old Hawaiian plantation charm with modern, family-friendly sensibilities. The restaurants at the hotel are good too—the seafood tower at Hoku’s is a must order. 

 

• The lobby of the Kahala Hotel.

Courtesy of the Kahala Hotel & Resort

For most kids (and many adults), one of the highlights of the hotel is the 26,000-square-foot lagoon, featuring bottlenose dolphins, turtles and tropical fish. Dolphin interaction programs are available for all ages. Babysitting services are available as well as half-day or full-day kids’ programs.

Rooms start at $395 per night. 5000 Kahala Ave, Honolulu. Tel. 800-367-2525. www.kahalaresort.com