Who doesn’t hear the siren song of Hawaii? I think Hawaii may be been my first inkling of what an “exotic” destination was. We’ve all seen the movies set in HawaiI: Blue Hawaii, Hawaii, Pearl Harbor, Blue Crush, 50 First Dates, and (my favorite) The Decedents. Oh wait. And Lilo and Stitch & Moana. Those take top ranking in my daughters’ book. Keep reading to learn more about my most recent visit to Hawaii. If Hawaii is on your radar, click here to get started.

Although there are eight main islands in Hawaii, only five are destinations available for vacationers seeking fun in the sun – Maui, Kauai, Oahu, Hawaii and Lanai. Each is a special destination with its own distinct culture. Because of their close proximity, it is easy to island hop. If you are flying across the Pacific to Hawaii, it would be a shame not to visit more than one island. Two is great. Three is even better! Amanda Watkins Travel can help you figure out which islands are best for you and come up with the perfect itinerary for your trip.

Hawaii is great for honeymoons, anniversaries, multi-generational trips, and those looking for a year round wonderful environment. You can be active. You can be chill. You can totally do you. But this past summer, my family of five headed to Hawaii, proving that Hawaii is one of the best destinations for families.

Where to Stay

Hawaii offers no shortage of fabulous resorts. And AWT can help you pick the perfect one for you! This post focuses on only Maui and Oahu. But AWT has the skinny on the best resorts on allllll of the islands.

Maui

Four Seasons Maui

Arguably the most cosmopolitan property on the island, the Four Seasons Maui offers impeccable service, divine accommodations and is perched on an enviable stretch of beach near many of the shops and restaurants in Wailea. While great for honeymooners and couples, the Fours Seasons Maui is also a great option for family travel. From my own personal experience, I have stayed at this hotel with girlfriends for a law school graduation trip, with my husband before we had kids and, most recently, with my three kiddos. In each instance, the Four Seasons Maui was perfection.

Virtuoso Amenities:

• Daily Continental Breakfast for two guests per room in Duo restaurant (Note: the breakfast amenity is a $30 per person per day credit and not valid on Mountainside room category)

• One category upgrade on arrival, subject to availability at check-in. Upgrade applies to the following room categories: Garden View room to Deluxe Garden View room, Deluxe Garden View room to Ocean View room or Ocean View room to Deluxe Ocean View room. Mountainside, Club Floor and suites excluded.

• $100 USD Food & beverage credit to be utilized during stay (not valid on Mountainside room category, not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)

• A welcome amenity on behalf of the Travel Agent

• Complimentary Wi-Fi

Andaz Maui

The Andaz Maui brings both a sleekness and lighthearted vibe to Wailea Beach in Maui. With modern design and contemporary rooms, Andaz Maui is great for honeymooners and the younger (or younger at heart) crowd. Those craving privacy can tuck away in one of the resorts many tropical nooks. Or you can grab one of the resorts complimentary Go Pros and enjoy great snorkeling right off shore.

Even if you opt not to stay at the Andaz, you should consider making a reservation to nosh at Morimoto Maui - one of the resorts two fine dining options.

Virtuoso Amenities:

• Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability

• Daily buffet breakfast, for up to two in room guests, served in Ka'ana Kitchen

• $100 USD Spa Services credit, to be utilized during stay (not combinable, no cash value if not redeemed in full)

• Complimentary Wi-Fi

• Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability

Montage Kapalua

Located on on of the most beautiful beaches in Maui, the Montage Kapalua feels a bit like a secret you have been lucky enough to be let in on. With just 50 one- to four- bedroom residences, you never feel crowded at any of the resorts six pools. Its large and beautifully decorated residences are perfect for families or those who have the luxury of an extended vacation. As is consistent with Montage chain, the level of service will be on par with your stunning surroundings and luxury accommodations.

Virtuoso Amenities:

• One view category upgrade upon check-in, subject to availability

• Welcome amenity

• $60 Daily breakfast credit per bedroom

• $150 Spa Montage Kapalua Bay Spa Service Credit

• Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability

• Complimentary Wi-Fi

Amanda Knows Best:

Make sure to make a reservation to dine at Merriman’s at sunset for a view and dinner that will not disappoint. Merriman’s is located just on the other side of the Montage’s beach. You can walk or the resort can take you over/back in one of their golf carts.

Oahu

Oahu is an often overlooked island or one that is just a stopover for purposes of visiting Pearl Harbor. And while the main city in Oahu, Honolulu, does indeed have a big city vibe that you won’t find on the other islands, Oahu has so much more to offer.

The Royal Hawaiian

Built in 1927 and known as the “Pink Palace”, this Waikiki landmark has been host to movies stars, magnates, movie starts and presidents over its long history. Located in the heart of Waikiki, this grande dame is worth a visit. History buffs can spend hours wandering the property and looking at the historical pictures, maps and documents proudly displayed on the walls. With many room configurations, it is great for couples, families, and large groups traveling together. The pool is on the small side (common for Waikiki resorts), but the beach is the big draw here.

Virtuoso Amenities:

For 2019:

• Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability

• Full breakfast daily for two guests at Surf Lanai restaurant

• $100 USD Resort Credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable; not valid on room rate, tax and gratuity; no cash value if not redeemed in full; excludes alcohol, Royal Hawaiian Bakery and all retail shops; may be used toward food & non-alcoholic beverages at Azure, Surf Lanai, Mai Tai Bar, Aha'aina Luau, Abhasa Spa, and Waikiki Beach Services)

  • Suite bookings in the following categories will receive an additional $100 Resort Credit for a total of $200 (not combinable with promotions, same terms as above apply): Historic Garden Suite, Historic Ocean Suite, Mailani Tower Loft Suite, Mailani Tower Ocean Suite, and Prestige Suite.

• Daily resort charge waived, benefits included (see Supplier Terms & Conditions for resort charge benefits)

• Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability

• Complimentary Wi-Fi

Amanda Knows Best:

Make sure to pre- reserve your beach chairs. They go fast and are often hard to secure once on property. Even folks who say they are “beached out” after staying on another island are drawn into the beautiful blue ocean in front of the Royal Hawaiian.

Are you ready to say Aloha? Let’s get started planning your Hawaiian escape!