Dear Editors,
I am having a hard time trying to figure out which island in Hawaii to visit. My daughter and I want a relaxing vacation - mostly just hanging out near the ocean and pool. We don't want an itinerary, and we would like to stay in a hotel that has everything around it. We do not want to rent a car either. It also has to be a nice hotel that has a lot of amenities. We like our weather on the warmer side. We would also like transportation to and from the airport.
Katherine
Photo of Maui Makena Cove courtesy of IgoUgo member sepherd333.
Hi Katherine,
I can tell that you're a traveler who knows what she wants, and you really can't go wrong with Hawaii! The beaches are pristine and the weather is phenomenal year round, so you can check those requirements off your list no matter where you choose to go.
I went to Travelocity's Team Hawaii with your question. Based on your preferences, they narrowed the options down to the two islands they thought you and your daughter would enjoy the most: Maui and Oahu. You'll be able to find a nice hotel with fantastic amenities on either of these beautiful islands, but you should choose based on how much of the island you want to explore - sans car!
Oahu's Waikiki is literally a playground with tons of activities within walking distance of many resorts. There are also shuttles and public transportation that you can use to get around the area since you don't want to rent a car. If you're looking for a lively area with great beaches, this is your place. (Check out Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel.)
If lazy days on the beach are what you're seeking, Maui would be a good choice for the two of you. Many travelers will tell you that Maui has the best beaches in the world! It's the perfect place to take refuge, never leaving the resort, yet it's still large enough to find plenty of entertainment. The public transportation options aren't as plentiful as what you'll find on Oahu, so expect a bit more seclusion if you choose to visit Maui without renting a car. (Check out Makena Beach and Golf Resort.)
Hope this helps you and your daughter choose the place that's best for you!
Happy Travels,
Jenn
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Comments
Feb 09, 2010
Hi Katherine -- I am planning a trip to Hawaii and I think I have the perfect island for you! Lanai is an island accessible by ferry from Maui and sounds like exactly what you're looking for. There are two hotels there -- both Four Seasons properties, so definitely on the high end, but there are lots of specials as well. The FS on the beach is the Manele. FS staff will pick you up at the ferry and they run a shuttle every 20 mins from the resort to the other FS property (called the Lodge) and into Lanai City (the word city is used very loosely in Hawaii). This is the island known for getting away from it all -- which sounds like exactly what you want to do. hope that helps!
Feb 12, 2010
I've been to all the islands and even write a blog devoted to traveling to Hawaii.
As I read the requirements, I thought the same exact thing as Genevieve -- Lanai. I love this laid back island which is perfect for relaxing.
The only oceanfront resort on Lanai is Four Seasons Lanai Manele Bay. This resort is perhaps the most beautiful resort in all of Hawaii. They really pamper you here..they even provide sunscreens at the pool. While you're lounging they bring you chilled towels, slices of fresh fruit...and get this cool spritzes of Evian water.
I would suggest you look at flying directing into Lanai City from Honolulu rather than taking the ferry from Maui. It will definitely cut down on your travel time and headaches. The shuttle picks you up from the airport and takes you to the resort.
Alternative, I'd suggest Kauai Marriott. They are only 5 minutes away from the airport and they provide a shuttle. There are some good restaurants on site and within walking distance.
Feb 18, 2010
Kauai!! Stayed at the Sheraton and the Hyatt - flew Aloha from the Big Island