The Best Island Resorts in the USA: Where Luxury Meets Nature

Your Dream Getaway: The Most Beautiful Island Resorts in the USA

When you think of an island getaway, your mind might drift to the Maldives or Bora Bora—but did you know the USA is home to some of the most stunning island resorts in the world? From the tropical shores of Hawaii to the remote beauty of the San Juan Islands, the U.S. offers an array of island escapes that combine luxury, adventure, and relaxation. Whether you're seeking a romantic retreat, a family-friendly adventure, or a wellness escape, there's an island resort waiting for you. Let’s explore some of the top island resorts in the USA!

The Lodge at Kukui'ula – Kauai, Hawaii

A hidden gem on the lush island of Kauai, The Lodge at Kukui’ula offers an exclusive retreat for travelers seeking a blend of luxury, adventure, and Hawaiian charm. Nestled along the South Shore, this private resort features spacious plantation-style cottages, oceanfront villas, and breathtaking tropical landscapes. With world-class amenities and personalized service, The Lodge at Kukui’ula is perfect for couples, families, and groups looking for an unforgettable island experience.

Activities at The Lodge at Kukui'ula

Guests at The Lodge at Kukui’ula can immerse themselves in the beauty of Kauai through a variety of outdoor adventures and wellness experiences. The resort’s private farm allows visitors to pick fresh tropical fruits, explore lush gardens, and learn about sustainable agriculture. Guided hikes through Kauai’s scenic valleys lead to hidden waterfalls, offering breathtaking views and a chance to connect with nature. Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of the Pacific. Golfers can experience a championship 18-hole course with sweeping ocean views, while those interested in Hawaiian culture can participate in hula lessons, lei-making, and traditional storytelling sessions.

‍Spa at Kukui'ula

The Hi’ilani Spa at The Lodge at Kukui’ula offers signature Hawaiian-inspired treatments designed for relaxation and rejuvenation. Guests can experience the traditional Lomi Lomi massage, which uses rhythmic strokes to soothe the body, or indulge in an island botanicals wrap featuring fresh Kauai-grown ingredients. The outdoor lava rock showers provide a unique open-air tropical spa experience, and private wellness retreats are available for those seeking personalized yoga, meditation, and holistic healing sessions.

Dining Opportunities

The resort offers exceptional dining experiences that highlight fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Umeke Kitchen + Bar presents a farm-to-table menu with fresh seafood, tropical produce, and spectacular ocean views. Makai Grill + Bar is a casual poolside eatery serving island-inspired dishes, including Hawaiian poke bowls and refreshing cocktails. The Clubhouse provides a cozy lounge atmosphere with handcrafted drinks and light bites, perfect for watching the sunset over the Pacific.

Recommended Day Trips

A boat tour along the Nā Pali Coast reveals some of the most spectacular scenery in Hawaii, with towering cliffs, hidden beaches, and cascading waterfalls. A visit to Waimea Canyon, often called the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” offers panoramic views and incredible hiking trails. Poipu Beach, known for its golden sand and gentle waves, is perfect for sunbathing, snorkeling with sea turtles, and spotting Hawaiian monk seals. For a more laid-back excursion, Hanalei Bay provides a stunning crescent-shaped shoreline surrounded by lush mountains, ideal for surfing and paddleboarding.

‍Location: Poipu, Kauai, Hawaii
Rating: 5 stars

Four Seasons Resort Lanai – Lanai, Hawaii

Perched on the secluded island of Lanai, Four Seasons Resort Lanai is a luxurious oasis surrounded by rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and lush tropical gardens. Overlooking the stunning Hulopo’e Bay, this five-star retreat offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, with world-class amenities and unparalleled service. Whether seeking a romantic getaway, an outdoor adventure, or a serene escape, Four Seasons Resort Lanai provides an exclusive island experience unlike any other.

Activities at Four Seasons Resort Lanai

Guests can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Lanai with a variety of outdoor adventures. Hulopo’e Bay, a protected marine reserve, offers exceptional snorkeling and scuba diving, where visitors can swim alongside vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish, and spinner dolphins. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy the Manele Golf Course, a Jack Nicklaus-designed masterpiece featuring panoramic ocean views. For those seeking exploration, guided off-road UTV excursions take guests through Lanai’s dramatic landscapes, from the red rock formations of Keahiakawelo, also known as the Garden of the Gods, to the towering Cook pines of Lanai City. Private boat charters allow visitors to discover hidden coves, while whale watching tours provide an unforgettable glimpse of majestic humpback whales during migration season.

Spa at Four Seasons Resort Lanai

The Hawānawana Spa offers a serene escape with treatments inspired by Hawaiian healing traditions. Guests can indulge in Lomi Lomi massages, seaweed-infused body wraps, and tropical fruit facials, all using locally sourced ingredients. The open-air relaxation lounges and ocean-view treatment rooms create a soothing atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of island exploration. For a truly unique experience, private wellness sessions, including beachfront yoga and meditation, provide a deeper connection to Lanai’s tranquil surroundings.

Dining Opportunities

Dining at Four Seasons Resort Lanai is a culinary journey that highlights fresh, local ingredients and innovative flavors. Nobu Lanai, one of the resort’s premier restaurants, offers a sophisticated blend of Japanese-Peruvian cuisine with breathtaking ocean views. One Forty specializes in prime steaks and island seafood, while Malibu Farm serves farm-to-table dishes with a focus on organic, locally grown produce. Guests can also enjoy casual dining at the poolside bar, featuring handcrafted cocktails and tropical-inspired bites.

Recommended Day Trips

A visit to Shipwreck Beach offers a glimpse of history, where an abandoned WWII-era ship rests on the shore, creating an eerie yet beautiful backdrop for exploration. The Lanai Cat Sanctuary, home to over 600 rescued cats, is a unique and heartwarming stop for animal lovers. For a cultural experience, guests can explore Lanai City, a charming plantation town with art galleries, local boutiques, and historical sites. Hiking enthusiasts will enjoy the Munro Trail, which winds through lush forests and provides sweeping views of Maui and Molokai on a clear day.

Location: Lanai, Hawaii
Rating: 5 stars

The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island – Florida

Set along the picturesque coastline of northeast Florida, The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island offers a perfect blend of Southern charm and oceanfront luxury. Nestled among ancient oak trees and golden sand dunes, this five-star resort provides a serene escape with elegant accommodations, world-class dining, and a wide array of activities. Whether guests seek relaxation at the spa, adventure on the water, or immersive cultural experiences, The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island delivers an unforgettable coastal retreat.

Activities at The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island

Guests can explore the island’s pristine beaches through sunrise horseback rides along the shoreline or take a guided kayaking tour through the nearby Amelia River and Intracoastal Waterway, home to dolphins and diverse wildlife. Golfers can enjoy the resort’s championship Golf Club of Amelia Island, featuring stunning oceanfront greens. For a taste of local history, guided walking tours through Fernandina Beach’s historic district provide insight into Amelia Island’s rich maritime past. Water lovers can also try stand-up paddleboarding, surfing, or embark on a deep-sea fishing excursion.

Spa at The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island

The Ritz-Carlton Spa offers a tranquil retreat inspired by the island’s coastal beauty. Signature treatments include the Heaven in a Hammock massage, a zero-gravity experience that mimics the soothing motion of ocean waves, and the Honey Butter Wrap, which uses locally sourced honey to hydrate and nourish the skin. The spa also features an adults-only saltwater pool, eucalyptus steam rooms, and private relaxation lounges with ocean views. Wellness offerings include guided meditation, yoga sessions on the beach, and personalized holistic healing treatments.

Dining Opportunities

Culinary excellence is at the heart of The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island. Salt, the resort’s award-winning fine dining restaurant, specializes in innovative dishes crafted with over 40 varieties of salt from around the world, including favorites like butter-poached lobster and hand-cut steaks. Coast, a more casual oceanfront restaurant, serves coastal-inspired cuisine featuring fresh seafood, seasonal produce, and classic Southern dishes. The Lobby Bar is renowned for its signature smoked Old Fashioned and handcrafted sushi, offering a sophisticated space to unwind. Guests can also experience private beachside dining, complete with a personal chef and a romantic candlelit setting.

Recommended Day Trips

A visit to Cumberland Island National Seashore, just a short ferry ride away, offers a glimpse into untouched wilderness with wild horses roaming freely along pristine beaches. History enthusiasts can explore Fort Clinch State Park, a well-preserved 19th-century fort with stunning coastal views and scenic nature trails. For a charming shopping and dining experience, Fernandina Beach’s Centre Street is lined with boutique stores, art galleries, and waterfront restaurants offering fresh seafood and live music.

Location: Amelia Island, Florida
Rating: 5 stars

The Lodge at Sea Island – Georgia

Set along the golden marshlands of Georgia’s southeastern coast, The Lodge at Sea Island is a five-star retreat offering timeless Southern elegance and world-class hospitality. Located on a private barrier island, this exclusive resort is renowned for its championship golf courses, personalized butler service, and breathtaking oceanfront setting. With luxurious accommodations, exceptional dining, and an array of outdoor activities, The Lodge at Sea Island is a perfect getaway for travelers seeking refinement and relaxation in a stunning coastal landscape.

Activities at The Lodge at Sea Island

Guests can experience Sea Island’s natural beauty through a variety of outdoor adventures. The resort is a golfer’s paradise, featuring three championship courses, including the iconic Seaside Course, home to the PGA Tour’s RSM Classic. For water enthusiasts, guided kayak and paddleboard tours provide an up-close look at the island’s tidal creeks and diverse wildlife, while deep-sea fishing excursions offer the chance to reel in snapper, grouper, and marlin. Equestrian lovers can enjoy horseback rides along the beach, while history buffs can explore the nearby town of St. Simons Island, rich with colonial-era landmarks and charming boutiques.

Spa at The Lodge at Sea Island

The Spa at Sea Island offers an immersive wellness experience inspired by coastal tranquility. Guests can indulge in signature treatments such as the Ocean Tides Massage, incorporating heated seashells to release tension, or the Sea Island Salt Scrub, which exfoliates and nourishes the skin using locally harvested sea salts. The spa also features an adults-only pool, a eucalyptus steam room, and personalized wellness programs, including yoga and meditation sessions overlooking the water.

Dining Opportunities

Culinary excellence is a hallmark of The Lodge at Sea Island. Colt & Alison, the resort’s signature steakhouse, offers expertly prepared dry-aged cuts, fresh seafood, and an extensive wine list in an intimate setting with live piano music. The Oak Room provides a relaxed yet refined atmosphere, serving Southern-inspired dishes such as shrimp and grits and bourbon-glazed pork chops. Guests can also enjoy a private dining experience at The Wine Cellar, a cozy, candlelit space perfect for intimate gatherings and special celebrations.

Recommended Day Trips

A short drive to Cumberland Island National Seashore reveals a pristine landscape of untouched beaches, wild horses, and ancient maritime forests. Visitors can explore Jekyll Island, home to historic mansions from the Gilded Age, scenic bike paths, and the famous Driftwood Beach. For a taste of local culture, the charming village of St. Simons Island offers boutique shopping, art galleries, and fresh seafood eateries.

Location: Sea Island, Georgia
Rating: 5 stars

Rosario Resort & Spa – Orcas Island, Washington

Tucked away in the serene San Juan Islands, Rosario Resort & Spa offers a historic and luxurious escape on the shores of Orcas Island. Originally built as a private estate in the early 1900s, this charming resort blends classic elegance with the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Overlooking the tranquil waters of Cascade Bay, Rosario Resort is an ideal retreat for those seeking relaxation, outdoor adventure, and breathtaking island scenery.

Activities at Rosario Resort & Spa

The resort’s prime waterfront location provides endless opportunities for outdoor exploration. Kayaking and paddleboarding in Cascade Bay offer stunning views of the island’s rugged coastline and abundant marine life, including seals, otters, and bald eagles. Hiking enthusiasts can venture to Moran State Park, home to lush forests, hidden waterfalls, and the breathtaking summit of Mount Constitution, the highest point in the San Juan Islands. Whale-watching tours depart directly from the resort’s marina, providing an unforgettable chance to see orcas, humpback whales, and porpoises in their natural habitat.

Spa at Rosario Resort & Spa

The Spa at Rosario is a tranquil sanctuary designed to reflect the island’s peaceful surroundings. Signature treatments include the Cedar & Sea Wrap, which uses locally sourced botanicals to nourish the skin, and the Rosario Deep Tissue Massage, perfect for releasing tension after a day of island exploration. The spa also features an indoor saltwater pool, outdoor soaking tubs with ocean views, and a eucalyptus-infused steam room for total relaxation.

Dining Opportunities

Guests can savor fresh Pacific Northwest cuisine at The Mansion Restaurant, located in the historic Rosario estate. The menu features locally sourced seafood, farm-fresh produce, and artisan cheeses, with specialties like Dungeness crab cakes and wild-caught salmon. The Cascade Bay Grill & Store offers a more casual dining experience with stunning waterfront views, serving gourmet burgers, fresh oysters, and craft cocktails. Private dining options are available for a romantic sunset dinner overlooking the bay.

Recommended Day Trips

A short ferry ride to Friday Harbor on San Juan Island offers charming waterfront shops, art galleries, and the famous Whale Museum. Visitors can explore the quaint town of Eastsound, home to local markets, bookstores, and boutique cafes. A visit to Lime Kiln State Park, one of the best whale-watching spots in the world, provides an excellent chance to see orcas from the shore.

Location: Orcas Island, Washington
Rating: 5 stars

Gurney's Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa – Long Island, New York

Perched on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa is the ultimate beachfront escape on Long Island’s eastern tip. Known for its stunning ocean views, luxurious spa, and lively social scene, this year-round resort blends coastal elegance with a relaxed seaside atmosphere. Whether visitors seek a romantic retreat, a wellness-focused getaway, or a vibrant summer vacation, Gurney’s offers a one-of-a-kind Montauk experience.

Activities at Gurney's Montauk Resort

The resort’s private beach, one of the most pristine in the Hamptons, is perfect for sunbathing, beach yoga, and bonfire nights. Guests can take surf lessons with local experts, explore the coastline on paddleboards, or enjoy scenic biking trails through Montauk’s rolling dunes. For those looking to unwind, the resort’s infinity-edge seawater pool provides an unparalleled oceanfront escape. Gurney’s is also a short drive from the Montauk Point Lighthouse, a historic landmark with breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic.

Spa at Gurney's Montauk

The Seawater Spa is a standout feature of the resort, offering an ocean-fed seawater pool, the only one of its kind in North America. Guests can indulge in hydrotherapy rituals, salt-infused steam baths, and detoxifying seaweed wraps, all designed to rejuvenate the body and mind. The spa also offers personalized wellness programs, including guided meditation, holistic healing therapies, and private yoga sessions with oceanfront views.

Dining Opportunities

Gurney’s is home to some of Montauk’s most sought-after dining experiences. Scarpetta Beach, the resort’s signature Italian restaurant, serves handmade pasta, fresh seafood, and an extensive wine selection in a stunning beachfront setting. Tillie’s, a casual yet stylish eatery, offers a delicious brunch menu with farm-fresh ingredients and seasonal specialties. The Beach Club provides a relaxed atmosphere with light bites, refreshing cocktails, and unbeatable ocean views, perfect for a laid-back afternoon by the water.

Recommended Day Trips

A visit to the Hamptons offers a glimpse into the region’s famed luxury lifestyle, with high-end boutiques, art galleries, and charming vineyards. Guests can explore Ditch Plains Beach, one of the East Coast’s premier surf spots, or take a boat excursion to Block Island, a nearby island known for its dramatic cliffs and scenic hiking trails. For a unique experience, a trip to the Wölffer Estate Vineyard in Sagaponack offers wine tastings with picturesque views of Long Island’s rolling vineyards.

Location: Montauk, Long Island, New York
Rating: 5 stars

The Cloister at Sea Island – Georgia

A timeless retreat along Georgia’s Golden Isles, The Cloister at Sea Island is a luxurious five-star resort that exudes Southern hospitality and elegance. Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean, salt marshes, and winding rivers, this coastal sanctuary offers world-class amenities, lavish accommodations, and an array of outdoor adventures. With its Mediterranean-inspired architecture, private beaches, and award-winning spa, The Cloister provides an exclusive escape for travelers seeking relaxation and refinement.

Activities at The Cloister at Sea Island

Guests can explore Sea Island’s stunning landscapes through a variety of activities. The resort offers five miles of private beach, ideal for paddleboarding, kayaking, and sunset cruises along the coast. Equestrian enthusiasts can ride horseback along the shoreline, while nature lovers can embark on guided birdwatching tours through the island’s lush maritime forests. Golfers will enjoy access to three championship courses, including the Seaside Course, a breathtaking oceanfront layout that hosts the PGA Tour’s RSM Classic. Tennis, pickleball, and shooting school experiences add to the resort’s diverse offerings.

Spa at The Cloister at Sea Island

The Forbes Five-Star Spa at Sea Island offers a serene retreat with an array of holistic treatments designed to rejuvenate the body and mind. Guests can indulge in the Sea Island Custom Massage, which blends aromatherapy and deep tissue techniques, or the Signature Sea Scrub, featuring mineral-rich salts from the Atlantic. The spa also boasts a hydrotherapy pool, eucalyptus steam room, and relaxation lounges with tranquil garden views. Private wellness programs, including yoga, guided meditation, and personal training sessions, provide a holistic approach to well-being.

Dining Opportunities

Dining at The Cloister is a culinary journey celebrating the flavors of the South. The Georgian Room, the only Forbes Five-Star restaurant in Georgia, offers an elegant dining experience with expertly crafted seasonal menus. Tavola, an Italian-inspired trattoria, serves handmade pastas and wood-fired pizzas with views of the Black Banks River. Southern Tide, the resort’s beachfront eatery, features fresh seafood, classic Lowcountry dishes, and handcrafted cocktails. Private dining experiences on the beach or in the resort’s elegant wine cellar are available for special occasions.

Recommended Day Trips

A short drive to Jekyll Island allows visitors to explore Driftwood Beach, historic mansions, and scenic bike trails. St. Simons Island, known for its charming village, lighthouse, and waterfront dining, provides a perfect afternoon excursion. For a unique adventure, a boat tour through the Altamaha River Delta reveals Georgia’s hidden waterways and diverse wildlife.

Location: Sea Island, Georgia
Rating: 5 stars

The Nantucket Hotel & Resort – Nantucket, Massachusetts

Located on the charming island of Nantucket, The Nantucket Hotel & Resort offers a blend of historic charm and modern luxury. Just steps from the cobblestone streets of downtown, this award-winning resort provides a welcoming retreat with coastal-inspired accommodations, top-tier amenities, and easy access to the island’s pristine beaches. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly getaway, a romantic escape, or a classic New England vacation, The Nantucket Hotel delivers a timeless island experience.

Activities at The Nantucket Hotel & Resort

Guests can explore Nantucket’s scenic coastline with complimentary beach shuttle service to Jetties Beach, a family-friendly spot with calm waters and soft sand. Biking is a popular way to experience the island, with miles of scenic trails leading to lighthouses, cranberry bogs, and stunning coastal views. Sailing excursions and fishing charters depart from the nearby harbor, offering a chance to experience Nantucket’s maritime heritage. Those interested in local culture can stroll through historic downtown, visit the Whaling Museum, or browse boutique shops and art galleries. In the evenings, guests can gather around the resort’s fire pits for s’mores and live music.

Spa at The Nantucket Hotel & Resort

The Nantucket Club, the resort’s wellness center, features a full-service spa offering a variety of relaxing treatments. Signature services include the Ocean Breeze Massage, designed to ease tension using locally inspired essential oils, and the Hydrating Island Facial, perfect for replenishing the skin after a day in the sun. The spa also offers private yoga and meditation sessions, as well as access to the resort’s heated outdoor pools, hot tub, and fitness center.

Dining Opportunities

The on-site restaurant, Breeze, offers a coastal-inspired menu with fresh seafood, seasonal ingredients, and classic New England favorites. Guests can enjoy specialties like Nantucket lobster rolls, clam chowder, and seared scallops while dining on the outdoor terrace. The restaurant also hosts Sunday Brunch, a popular gathering featuring made-to-order omelets, fresh pastries, and handcrafted cocktails. For a casual treat, guests can visit the resort’s pop-up ice cream stand, a summertime favorite.

Recommended Day Trips

A visit to Great Point Lighthouse offers breathtaking ocean views and the chance to spot seals lounging on the beach. Guests can explore the island’s natural beauty with a trip to Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Refuge, home to scenic sand dunes, salt marshes, and diverse birdlife. The nearby village of Siasconset (’Sconset) is known for its picturesque rose-covered cottages and the scenic ’Sconset Bluff Walk, a beautiful trail overlooking the Atlantic.

Location: Nantucket, Massachusetts
Rating: 5 stars

‍The Ocean House – Watch Hill, Rhode Island

A grand New England retreat with a rich history dating back to 1868, The Ocean House is a five-star seaside resort known for its timeless elegance, exceptional service, and breathtaking Atlantic Ocean views. Perched atop the bluffs of Watch Hill, this historic resort blends Gilded Age charm with modern luxury, offering private beach access, an award-winning spa, and world-class dining. With its warm hospitality and refined coastal ambiance, The Ocean House is the perfect escape for travelers seeking relaxation and sophistication.

Activities at The Ocean House

The Ocean House offers an array of classic New England experiences. Guests can enjoy sailing excursions on the Atlantic, private beach bonfires with gourmet s’mores, or scenic bike rides through Watch Hill’s charming coastal roads. The resort’s Croquet Lawn, inspired by traditional British garden games, provides a unique and leisurely outdoor activity. For those interested in culinary arts, The Ocean House offers hands-on cooking classes and wine tastings led by expert sommeliers.

Spa at The Ocean House

The OH! Spa, Rhode Island’s only Forbes Five-Star spa, provides an unparalleled wellness experience. Signature treatments include the Seaside Stone Massage, which uses heated ocean-smoothed stones to melt away tension, and the Marine Algae Wrap, designed to detoxify and hydrate the skin using locally harvested seaweed. The spa’s relaxation lounges offer panoramic ocean views, while the indoor saltwater lap pool provides a serene setting for rejuvenation.

Dining Opportunities

The resort’s flagship restaurant, Coast, offers a fine dining experience featuring seasonal menus crafted with ingredients sourced from local farmers and fishermen. The Bistro provides a more casual atmosphere, serving New England classics like lobster rolls and clam chowder. Guests can also enjoy traditional afternoon tea on the veranda, complete with freshly baked pastries and ocean views. The Secret Garden, an outdoor champagne bar, offers a sophisticated setting for enjoying craft cocktails and light bites under twinkling string lights.

Recommended Day Trips

A visit to the nearby Newport Mansions offers a glimpse into the Gilded Age opulence of Rhode Island’s historic summer estates. The Block Island Ferry provides access to one of New England’s most scenic offshore escapes, known for its dramatic cliffs and charming small-town atmosphere. Guests can also explore the Mystic Seaport Museum, a fascinating maritime history attraction featuring historic ships, a recreated 19th-century village, and interactive exhibits.

Location: Watch Hill, Rhode Island
Rating: 5 stars

Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection – Big Island, Hawaii

Set along the stunning Kohala Coast on Hawaii’s Big Island, Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection is a five-star retreat where modern luxury meets the spirit of Aloha. Surrounded by black lava fields, white-sand beaches, and ancient fishponds, this oceanfront resort offers a serene escape infused with Hawaiian culture, adventure, and wellness. With its world-class amenities, exceptional dining, and breathtaking views of the Pacific, Mauna Lani is the ultimate island sanctuary for those seeking relaxation and exploration in equal measure.

Activities at Mauna Lani

Guests can experience the island’s rich natural beauty through a variety of outdoor adventures. The resort offers direct access to Makaiwa Bay, a pristine beach perfect for snorkeling with tropical fish and sea turtles. Stand-up paddleboarding and outrigger canoeing excursions allow guests to explore the coastline as Hawaiian navigators once did. Golfers can enjoy championship play at the Mauna Lani Golf Course, featuring fairways carved into lava fields with panoramic ocean views. For a deeper connection to the island’s history, cultural experiences such as hula lessons, lei-making, and guided hikes to Puakō Petroglyph Park offer an immersive glimpse into Hawaii’s past.

Spa at Mauna Lani

The Auberge Spa at Mauna Lani offers a wellness experience rooted in Hawaiian healing traditions. Signature treatments include the Ho’omaha Massage, a deeply restorative therapy using warm pohaku (stones) and essential oils inspired by native plants. The Aloha Spirit Facial rejuvenates the skin with locally sourced botanicals, while the Lava Detox Wrap utilizes volcanic clay to purify and refresh the body. The resort also offers beachfront yoga, sound bath healing, and holistic wellness programs designed to rejuvenate the mind, body, and spirit.

Dining Opportunities

Dining at Mauna Lani highlights the best of Hawaii’s fresh, local ingredients. CanoeHouse, the resort’s signature oceanfront restaurant, features innovative island cuisine with dishes like misoyaki butterfish and wagyu beef with Big Island mushrooms. HaLani, an open-air eatery, offers relaxed yet refined dining with tropical breakfasts, fresh poke bowls, and wood-fired seafood. The Surf Shack, a beachfront bar and grill, serves handcrafted cocktails, acai bowls, and light bites perfect for a day by the water. Guests can also enjoy private sunset dining experiences on the beach, complete with a personalized menu and tiki torches.

Recommended Day Trips

A visit to Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park offers an unforgettable experience exploring active lava fields, steaming craters, and lush rainforests. A scenic drive to Waipi’o Valley reveals towering waterfalls, black-sand beaches, and sweeping views of one of Hawaii’s most sacred landscapes. Snorkeling or diving at Kealakekua Bay, where Captain Cook first landed, provides access to some of the island’s most vibrant coral reefs. Guests can also embark on a Manta Ray Night Dive, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to swim alongside these gentle giants in the glowing waters of the Pacific.

Location: Kohala Coast, Big Island, Hawaii
Rating: 5 stars

Find Your Next Island Escape

From the tropical shores of Hawaii to the quiet retreats of the Pacific Northwest, the USA has island resorts for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful beachfront stay, an active getaway, or a mix of both, these destinations offer great places to unwind and explore. Enjoy the ocean breeze, relax by the water, and discover a new favorite spot for your next trip.