A celebrity retreat since 1964, the newly renovated Kahala is quite possibly the best hotel in Oahu. Yet its vibe is more "family fun" than "pretentious glitz" -- think swimming with dolphins, not posing in lounges. Sure, it's your only luxury option in a quiet setting without leaving Oahu -- but it's also a great one.

Of the three luxury hotels in Waikiki -- the Moana Surfrider and the Halekulani are the others -- the 528-room Royal Hawaiian provides the most stunning design, the warmest service, and a solid collection of free little extras, turndown treats, and welcome leis.

One of the island's best hotels, with 456 large, luxury-packed rooms, top restaurants with gorgeous views, a notable spa, fastidious service, and a former Miss Hawaii dancing the hula nightly. Too bad the property's formal, understated elegance can sometimes feel cold.

A massive, 1,310-room beachside resort that delivers both what you expect from the Marriott -- friendly service, well-kept grounds -- and what you might not -- five restaurants (including Waikiki's best sushi), a top spa on-site, and free snorkel and scuba lessons. For families especially, this is a solid midrange value.

The largest resort in Hawaii is a veritable village, with five towers, five pools, 20 bars and restaurants, 90 shops, direct beach access, and a separate lagoon. The crowds can get big and the lines long. But for families and other Waikiki vacationers looking for a self-contained resort with loads to do, the Hilton is a top choice.

With a hopping pool deck offering beautiful ocean views, four restaurants, a solid spa, and a 60-store, on-site shopping mall, there's plenty for couples and families at this 40-story, two-tower mega-resort across from Waikiki Beach. But the atmosphere can feel impersonal, and the noise from Kalakaua Avenue can be intrusive.

This hotel, located directly on Waikiki Beach, has many admirable features: a great pool deck, three affordable restaurants with vibrant atmosphere, a spa, artwork and activities that get visitors in touch with Hawaiian culture, and spacious, tastefully decorated, tropical-themed rooms. In short, one of the best Waikiki choices in its price range.

Situated on the largest of Ko Olina's man-made lagoons, the elegant JW Marriott Ihilani is a solid option for families and couples, with two excellent pools, a top-ranked golf course and spa, five tennis courts, and excellent cuisine.

A 448-unit resort on the scenic, isolated North Shore with an unbeatable array of amenities -- two 18-hole golf courses, a stable, helicopter rides -- plus five miles of shoreline and great restaurants. Too bad guest rooms are bland and dated and some facilities need a facelift.