Aloha! Hawaii continually rates as one of the top vacation destinations. No surprises here! The gorgeous scenery, pristine beaches, and adventure activities bring a constant stream of visitors to the island state. Not to mention year-round warm weather. It is the perfect escape from the grind of daily life. However, island life is expensive. The nightly price for a hotel often runs into the hundreds or thousands of dollars! Thankfully, there are some amazing point redemption opportunities. What is more relaxing than a free hotel stay!

The Best Value Hotel Redemptions In Hawaii

The major four (Hilton, Hyatt, IHG, and Marriott) hotel footprint in Hawaii consists of 82 properties. Marriott and Hyatt have the most hotels on the island; 36 and 24 respectively. Conversely, IHG has the smallest presence with only 2 properties. Nearly 40% of all hotel properties in Hawaii offer an opportunity for positive value point redemption. The five best hotel redemptions provide a great mix of hotel brands, island location and variety, and accommodation style.

The Ritz-Carlton Maui Kapalua (Marriott)

The Ritz-Carlton Maui Kapalua is an ultra-luxury hotel, which resides on the spectacular Hawaiian coastline. On the island of Maui, the hotel sits on 54 beautiful acres of beachfront real estate. The recently redesigned rooms and suites embrace the island culture through local art and design features. A variety of on-site entertainment options range from two championship golf courses to a three level outdoor pool. In addition, multiple hiking trails, natural sanctuaries and six incredible beaches are available to guests. The hotel offers six distinctive restaurants, including the upscale Hawaiian cuisine of The Banyan Tree and the ocean-front Burger Shack. For an extra dose of relaxation, the on-site spa extends an array of body treatments, which borrow from ancient Hawaiian traditions. A resort shuttle provides transportation to nearby beaches, restaurants, and shopping.

** In March 2022, Marriott moves to a variable point redemption model.

Hyatt Residence Club Maui Ka’anapali Beach (Hyatt)

Along a 600m stretch of Ka’anapali Beach, on the island of Maui, resides the Hyatt Residence Club Maui. This luxury hotel sits on 40 acres of stunning coastal landscape. The apartment-style hotel offers one, two, and three bedroom units; complete with a full kitchen, large balconies, and in-unit washers and dryers. The hotel provides guests a choice of three pools as well as direct beach access. Despite the lack of an official on-site restaurant, the hotel offers a mini-market, coffee shop, and tiki bar. However, the property is within walking distance of several restaurants. 

The Lodge At Kukui’ula (Hyatt)

On the southern shoreline of Kauai, rests The Lodge at Kukui’ula. This upscale oasis consists of three Club Neighborhoods, which feature authentic plantation-style architecture. The standalone bungalows, villas, and cottages range in size from one to four bedrooms. A sprawling pool complex sits between the residences and offers ocean views from an infinity pool and a saltwater lagoon. The lodge hosts multiple restaurants, an on on-site ice cream shop, as well as an 18-hole golf course. For relaxation, the Hi’ilani Spa provides a wellness center, steam room, sauna, and meditation garden. The hotel offers a host of unique experiences including whale watching and stand up paddling. In addition, a 10 acre farm calls the hotel grounds home; tours are available. The farm produces fresh fruits, vegetables, and flowers, which the hotel uses in the rooms, restaurants, and spa treatments. 

Wailea Beach Resort – Marriott Maui (Marriott)

The Wailea Beach Resort is a luxury hotel on the beautiful Hawaiian island of Maui. The property hugs the coastline between the famous Wailea Beach and neighboring Ulua Beach. Every room features a sleek design and modern amenities, as well as either a patio or balcony to enjoy the views. The hotel provides guests with four pool options across 22 acres. There is a pool for every age, ranging from the adults-only Maluhia Serenity Pool to the family-focused NALU Adventure Pool. The NALU pool even holds the title of “Longest Resort Waterslide” in Hawaii. In addition, eight distinctive dining experiences grace the hotel grounds. The various restaurants offer a luau buffet, food truck, and upscale Hawaiian-inspired fare. For families, the hotel has a game space, movie house, and kids club. Additional amenities include a championship golf course and an on-site spa.

** In March 2022, Marriott moves to a variable point redemption model.

Andaz Maui At Wailea Resort (Hyatt)

Within the famous Wailea region, on the Hawaiian island of Maui, dwells The Andaz Maui At Wailea Resort. This luxury hotel sits on 15 beachfront acres, with direct access to Mokapu Beach. The minimalistic rooms, suites, and villas give a touch of island culture, and extend most guests ocean views. The villas provide an extra touch of extravagance via a personal plunge pool. Beyond the villas, the property features four infinity pools, complete with ocean views and poolside bars. The hotel has two on-site restaurants, including the Morimoto Maui by Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto. Furthermore, the hotel offers a bar, lounge, and small market. The property also features the Awilli Spa and Salon; the perfect place to relax. The hotel organizes various experiences, which include paddle boarding, kayaking, surf lessons, and sailing in an outrigger canoe. 

Final Thoughts

Hawaii provides a good mix of traditional hotels and residence-style accommodations. In addition, hotel properties exist for all demographics; couples or families and reasonably priced or exorbitantly expensive. From a brand perspective, Marriott and Hyatt offer the best value proposition for point redemptions. However, despite no properties in the top five, Hilton has a few good redemption options as well. While the top five redemptions trend towards luxury properties, there is value across the spectrum. There are even multiple Hyatt Free Night Award redemption opportunities. Aloha!