The Spread:
Even the most blasé child will concede a mumbled "awesome" upon registering at the Grand Wailea. The property is a tasteful mix of marble, stone, wood, and waterfalls, all laced with Hawaiian patterns, world-class art, and profusions of orchids and plumeria. The hotel, recently inducted as part of the Waldorf-Astoria Collection, Hiltons new luxury brand, also has a world-class, 50,000-square-foot spa. The Grand Wailea is the sum of all island fantasies, so your kids better be impressed.
Why Families Love It:
Camp Grande, a 20,000-square-foot facility, features a movie theater, computer games, an arts and crafts room, and a kiddie area for preschoolers. Tots under three are welcome with their nannies or parents. At Camp Grande, ages five through 12 build sandcastles, explore tidepools, swim, go on scavenger hunts, take part in relay races, and watch movies. Sign up for full-day (9 a.m. to 4 p.m., $80), half-day (9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.; 12:30 p.m. to 4 p.m., $50), or evening sessions (5 p.m. to10 p.m., $60). The catch: you must reserve a space at least 24 hours in advance, and a minimum of three children are required for the program to run. In summer and over Christmas, there are Teen Spa nights ($30) when ages 13 to 17 get the luxe spas five specialty soaking tubs, cascading waterfall, steam, sauna, and Swiss showers all to themselves.
Despite all these options, the pools often make the biggest splash. Most childrenand teenswant to spend all day tumbling down the water slides, floating with the simulated river current, jumping on the rope swing, and cavorting like dolphins in this water playground. Parents will also want to channel their inner child to best effect, so go grab a lounge chair early as the poolside spots fill fast.
Special Events & Activities:
Once a week on summer evenings, watch movies on the lawn under the stars.
331282