My Hawaii, by Joyce Dentt
Hawaii has always been a favorite destination for our family. I remember my first trip to Oahu, just after my 16th birthday. As we traveled by “jet” plane over the Pacific we listened to the pilot with excitement as he reported that the US had just landed on the moon. That was 1969 and this is 2009.
Hawaii has changed a lot since then but it always brings joy to each of our family members – the warmth of the water, the gentle tradewinds and the beautiful resorts built on fabulous beaches on each of the islands.
Our family favorites on each island are:
Oahu: The Kahala Resort. Built in the 1960’s it sits between Diamond Head and Koko Head Craters, nestled between a beautiful private golf course and the blue water of the Pacific Ocean. If you don’t like the crowds of Waikiki Beach this is the place for you. Dine steps away from the ocean, take a swim with the dolphins at Dolphin Quest, relax at the beach with a good book or take in a spa treatment at their fabulous spa.
Maui: Sheraton Maui. This hotel, while the pool may be small, sits on the best oceanfront property on Maui with a wide beach and great snorkeling right below Black Rock. It has large rooms, most with good views of the ocean and a terrific breakfast buffet. Walking distance to shops and other hotels down the beach this would be my pick for all ages.
Hawaii: Mauna Lani Bay Resort. We visited this hotel for the first time in 1984 and continue to go back year after year! This wonderful hotel is built on one of the best swimming beaches in Kohala, offering some of the best snorkeling in all the islands and suitable for small children. The staff is welcoming; the food is great from the great breakfast buffet to the ocean front dining at The Canoe House. The spa offers wonderful, private outdoor massages. Take in a couples massage on your next romantic getaway.
Kauai: Kiahuna Plantation. This condo property has always been a favorite of our children. The units sit on Poipu Beach on the sunnier side of Kauai. While this property doesn’t have air conditioning and the pool is across the street, it still ranks at the top of my list. Great restaurants located nearby.
Hyatt Regency: This hotel is located beachfront on Shipwreck Beach, named that for a good reason. Unless you are fabulous swimmer this beach is beautiful to look at but I would stay in the many pools on property. This is a great family resort but also offers a romantic escape for any couple.
Lanai: Manele Bay. I’ve saved the best for last! This Four Seasons Hotel has become our family favorite; elegant and yet family friendly with beautiful Hawaiian touches everywhere. This nonsmoking resort offers great views of either lush gardens or the Pacific Ocean from every room. Only three hotels on the island; two in Lanai City, The Lodge at Koele and Lanai Hotel, this one sits above Hulopoe Beach, ranked as one of the top 10 best beaches in Hawaii. Two top ranked golf courses are available to play - The Challenge at Manele hugs the coastline and The Experience at Koele a mountain course with the scent of tall pines and a visit from a wild turkey or two. There is a lot to do here, even for a small island and the staff is very friendly. You will feel relaxed and rejuvenated after your visit here!
