Why Four Seasons Hualalai on the Big Island is the Ultimate Family Vacation
There’s something about Hawaii that just hits differently. Maybe it’s the scent of plumeria in the air, the rhythmic crash of waves, or the way time seems to stretch out and soften. Whatever it is, I find myself drawn back again and again—and if you’re looking for a resort that elevates that island magic while still making space for real family life (snack breaks, mid-day meltdowns, and all), you’re going to fall in love with Four Seasons Hawaii on the Big Island.
This is not just a hotel. It’s a full-sensory, sand-between-your-toes, pass-the-mai-tai experience that welcomes kids and grown-ups alike. Whether it’s your first trip to the islands or your fifth, Four Seasons Hualalai on the Big Island delivers that “we could stay forever” energy in the most effortless way possible.
As someone who lives and breathes luxury travel and family logistics (hello, three kids), I can confidently say: this place gets it.
Where Luxury and Laid-Back Vibes Collide
The moment you arrive at the Four Seasons on the Kona-Kohala coast, you’ll understand what all the fuss is about. Palm trees sway gently, the air smells like ocean and orchids, and you’re greeted with a lei and a cold drink like you're the guest of honor at a private luau.
This isn’t a stuffy resort pretending to be fancy—Four Seasons Hualalai has mastered the art of understated luxury. Think barefoot elegance, where you can head straight from the beach to dinner without skipping a beat. No heels required, just that vacation glow.
The layout is sprawling in the best way—low-rise buildings, lush gardens, and winding pathways that encourage exploration. And while it’s definitely luxe, it’s never intimidating. Our kids loved running ahead to “find” the next koi pond or hidden hammock, and we loved watching them experience Hawaii with wide-eyed wonder.
Rooms That Actually Work for Families
Let’s talk about accommodations. Because one of my biggest pet peeves with high-end vacations is beautiful rooms that aren’t actually designed for families. Not here.
The Four Seasons Resort Hualalai offers a variety of luxurious accommodations designed to cater to diverse preferences and group sizes. The resort features a total of 249 accommodations, comprising 196 guest rooms, 44 suites, and 3 villas. Each accommodation is thoughtfully designed to provide comfort, privacy, and a connection to the island's natural beauty.
We stayed in an ocean-view suite and immediately felt at home—spacious, beautifully decorated, and complete with that dream bathroom situation (double vanity, soaking tub, outdoor shower!). There was room for everyone’s stuff (and snacks), and the lanai became our go-to hangout spot for morning coffee and post-swim snack breaks.
Pro tip: Ask for a ground-floor room if you’ve got young kids—it makes those quick runs to the pool so much easier.
Pools, Beaches, and Splashy Fun
There are pools—and then there are Four Seasons pools. This resort has seven, including a family-friendly one with shallow entry, shaded lounge chairs, and attentive staff who somehow know exactly when to bring more chilled water (or popsicles!).
Each one has its own vibe, and you’ll find yourself bouncing between them depending on your mood (or your kid's energy level). Here's the rundown:
King’s Pond: Hands down, our family’s favorite. This isn’t your typical pool—it’s a swimmable aquarium carved from lava rock and filled with over 1,000 tropical fish, including a resident spotted eagle ray. The resort provides complimentary snorkel gear, and my kids were obsessed. We spent hours swimming alongside fish they’d only seen in books. It’s educational, magical, and completely unique to this resort.
Sea Shell Pool: Perfect for families with younger kids. It has a gradual, beach-style entry (so no scary drop-offs), and plenty of shallow areas for water play. Bonus: it's near the Beach Tree restaurant, so you can grab lunch without even drying off.
Palm Grove Pool: Adults-only and beautifully serene. If you manage to sneak in a kid-free hour or book some time at the kids’ club, this is your spot. Think craft cocktails, an infinity edge, and total peace.
Lap Pool at the Spa: Technically part of the spa, but it deserves a shoutout. If you book a treatment, come early or linger afterward to do a few laps in this beautifully calm, adults-only oasis.
Keiki Pool: Another great one for little ones—shallower and right next to loungers so you can keep an eye out while relaxing. It’s perfect for late afternoons when everyone needs to chill a bit.
Palm Grove Saltwater Pool: This one's dreamy—no chlorine, just silky soft saltwater. It's great for sensitive skin and feels amazing after a day in the sun.
Ocean Pool: Built into the lava rock and filled with filtered ocean water, this one’s best for stronger swimmers and adventurous spirits. It’s a fun spot to feel connected to the ocean without battling surf or sand.
Kid-Centered, Not Kid-Constrained
What makes Four Seasons Hualalai stand out is how well it integrates kids without compromising the adult experience. Their Kids For All Seasons program is one of the best I’ve seen—truly. Thoughtful, engaging activities (think hula lessons, tide pool exploration, lei-making), kind and energetic staff, and a space that feels more like an adventure hub than a daycare.
Our older two practically sprinted there each morning. And the best part? They came back beaming with new skills and stories, while my husband and I got a rare midday moment to ourselves. A win-win.
And for teens? There’s plenty to love—stand-up paddleboarding, ukulele classes, and even cultural workshops that don’t feel forced. The resort offers a sweet spot of independence and supervision that makes it a favorite for families with older kids, too.
Food That Everyone Will Love (Really)
Feeding a family on vacation can be... complicated. But not here. The dining at Four Seasons Hualalai is fresh, local, and just upscale enough to feel special.
There’s the legendary Beach Tree, where you can dine with your feet in the sand while the kids munch wood-fired pizzas. Ulu Ocean Grill is your go-to for fresh fish and sunsets, while Hualalai Grill offers steak and seafood with casual elegance and sweeping views of the golf course.
Room service? Surprisingly quick and consistently excellent. We did several slow breakfasts on our lanai—nothing beats pancakes and papaya with a side of ocean breeze.
And yes, they cater to every allergy and dietary request with grace.
Experiences Beyond the Pool
If your family likes to mix in a little adventure, culture, or shopping with your lounging (we definitely do), Four Seasons Hualalai has an endless lineup of memorable experiences—both on-property and nearby.
Snorkeling with manta rays at night: This was an absolute highlight. Floating under the stars while graceful mantas twirl below you? It’s otherworldly and perfect for older kids or teens.
Cultural experiences: The resort does a beautiful job of honoring Hawaiian traditions. Kids and adults can take part in lei-making, hula lessons, outrigger canoe paddling, and more. You don’t feel like a tourist—you feel connected.
Golf: Even if you’re not a golfer, the Jack Nicklaus signature course is stunning and walkable. For golf lovers, it's paradise with palm trees.
Spa time: The spa is as serene as they come, with open-air treatment hales tucked into lush gardens. If you can steal away for a lomi lomi massage, do it. You’ll thank me later.
Now, let’s talk shopping—because I always say a vacation should leave you a little more sparkly. The resort features multiple boutiques, and the selection is chef’s kiss. Think: flowing resort wear, locally crafted gifts, and drool-worthy jewelry. Even better? They often host exclusive trunk shows from visiting designers.
When we were there, the fabulous jewelry designer Kai Linz had a pop-up, and let’s just say… we left with more than just memories. (My wallet might still be recovering.)
And speaking of sparkle: the luau at Hualalai is one of my all-time favorites in Hawaii. Hosted seasonally at the Hoku Amphitheater, it’s a stunning evening of traditional Hawaiian music, dance, and storytelling, complete with hula and fire-knife performances that had our kids wide-eyed and silent (a true miracle). The open-fire buffet? Delicious. If you’re planning your vacation during luau season, make sure to ask the concierge to help you snag a spot. It’s that good.
Why Book with Travel With Merritt
Here’s the secret sauce: When you book through Travel With Merritt, you don’t just get a room—you get an elevated experience. As a Four Seasons Preferred Partner and a trusted luxury travel agency, I offer exclusive perks that take your stay to the next level.
Whether you're planning a honeymoon, a multigenerational getaway, or even exploring luxury cruise vacations, I act as your personal travel planner, helping you get the most out of every moment.
Travel With Merritt is all about thoughtful planning backed by real-world parenting experience. I know what works—and I’ve got insider access as your personal vacation planner to make it even better.
The Verdict
If you’re dreaming of warm breezes, turquoise water, and family time that actually feels relaxing, Four Seasons Hualalai should be at the very top of your list. This is the kind of place that lingers in your memory—the smell of salt in the air, the feel of soft sand underfoot, the laughter of your kids chasing waves at sunset.
And when you’re ready to turn that dream into reality, Travel With Merritt is here to help. I’ll handle the details—you soak up the magic.
