The Travel & Leisure 2017 100 Best Hotels in the World list is out. And in it, there’s only one Hawaii hotel, meaning it is the best Hawaii hotel 2017.
Every year Travel & Leisure magazine conducts a number of surveys. And one of these surveys is always about hotels. From this survey they then product a list of the top 100 hotels in the world. Called the 100 Top Hotels in the World list, the 2017 edition is now available.
Hawaii’s Sole List Member
The list includes a number of hotels from around the world. From cosy little places like an inn on the Oregon Coast to super luxury resorts, the list has it all. And despite the huge number of great hotels in Hawaii, only one made the cut. Coming in at 48th place is Hawaii’s only list member: the Ko’a Kea Hotel & Resort.
Located on Kauai’s south coast in Poipu, the Ko’a Kea Resort is near many of Kauai’s other resorts, including the Grand Hyatt. It’s a very popular resort area, though it isn’t as crowded as Waikiki or Kaanapali. And while many of the other hotels in the area are quite large, the Ko’a Kea Resort is quite small. This luxury property has only 121 guest rooms, a small pool, a spa, and a single restaurant. But, despite the lack of hundreds of amenities, the Ko’a Kea seems to focus on getting those that they do offer right.
In fact, and understated luxury seems to be the point of the whole resort. Looking at photos online, the overall design of the hotel is very nice and elegant, but not flashy or over the top. Other travel sites like Oyster.com sing praises about the property’s service and the quality of the restaurant, spa, fitness center, etc. And that seems to be the whole point; you come here to relax and be pampered.
Hawaii’s Top Hotels
Travel & Leisure does have other lists too, including a Hawaii-specific one. The Hawaii list contains just 15 hotels, which are concentrated primarily on Maui and the Big island. Of course Ko’a Kea Hotel & Resort was number one on the list, but here’s list in its entirety:
- Ko’a Kea Hotel & Resort
- Hotel Wailea
- Montage Kapalua
- Four Seasons Resort Hualalai
- Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort
- Four Seasons Resort Lanai
- Fairmont Kea Lani
- Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea
- Halekulani
- Ritz-Clarion Kapalua
- Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa
- Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina
- Travaasa Hana
- Fairmont Orchid
- Mauna Lani Bay Hotel & Bungalows
It’s interesting how all open Four Seasons properties in Hawaii appear on this list, though this really should be a surprise. But, as you can see, all of the hotels on this list are among Hawaii’s most expensive and exclusive hotels. I am a little surprised that The Kahala Hotel & Resort doesn’t appear on this list, but the hotel has been in a constant state of transition over the past few years. I’m also surprised that the St. Regis Princeville isn’t included on this list too, though I’ve never stayed there, so I can’t vouch for the property.
In fact, of this list, I’ve only stayed at the Andaz Maui. I loved that hotel, but trying to book an award night there is a very frustrating experience. And the fees the charge on non-award stays are absurd ($40 resort fee + $40 parking). But the award booking issue seems to be a common problem now days.
Best Hawaii Hotel 2017 Final Thoughts
As I’ve said before, the only hotel I’ve stayed at on the Hawaii list is the Andaz Maui. Well, I’ve stayed at the Four Seasons Oahu when it was still the JW Marriott Ihilani, but that isn’t exactly the same. So I really can’t say how any of these hotels are, including the Ko’a Kea. But, I wouldn’t mind checking out Stephanie Inn on the Oregon Coast on day! And I do want to give almost all the hotels on the Hawaii list a try too.
I’ve never stayed at Koa’Kea, but I LOVE LOVE LOVE their restaurant, Red Salt. In fact, we were just talking about it last night because my boyfriend and I are going to Kauai next year. I always thought it was an odd “hotel” because it seems more like a condo complex!
Great to hear, Amanda! If you decide to stay at the Ko’a Kea, let me know how you like it!
As far as value, Ka’anipali Beach Hotel can’t be beat. The property is older, and doesn’t have fancy rooms, but the rates are very reasonable, and its literally a few steps to one of the best beaches in the world. They are awarded “The Most Hawaiian Hotel” every year. The Spirit of Aloha is everywhere. All associates are friendly and are happy to serve you. Beautiful grounds, close to Whaler’s village, and Triolgy is right on site. It’s not a chain, but it’s awesome.
KS77, never stayed there either. Actually, I was at a silent auction the other month and the Kaanapali Beach Hotel was one of the option, but very few bid on it. Probably because, as you say, it is older. Sounds like a nice place nevertheless. My current favorite Maui hotel is the Andaz Maui, but its really expensive and I’m not a fan of World of Hyatt, so oh well…
I hear good things about the Andaz but as you already know, Hyatt isn’t my preferred chain. Planning a trip to the islands for next summer…can’t wait!
Hah! I know, KS77. And I hope you’ll drop by Oahu for a couple of days ;)