Luxury Hawaii resorts for families don't have to choose between water-park thrills and actual relaxation. Aulani and Grand Wailea are the anchors here: one leans Disney (character moments, engineered fun for younger kids, calmer beach); the other is an actual water park masquerading as a five-star resort. Grand Hyatt Kauai and Andaz round out the range—pick Kauai if you want a true kids' club with Hawaiian programming and snorkeling, or Andaz if you're after design and a slightly lower bill without sacrificing the pool scene.
Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa
Ko Olina, HI4★$$$$
Disney's Hawaiian resort delivers a kid-engineered water playground, character meet-ups without Disney park crowds, and a beach that's calmer than anything on the strip in Honolulu.