It seems as though the Pacific Trade winds have brought a spirit of change to the Hawaiian Islands. As new restaurants, attractions and venues take root across the volcanic archipelago, there has never been a better time to visit—especially for conferences and incentive groups. Hotels on all of the islands have undergone numerous updates, revealing refreshed guest rooms, lobby spaces and additional meeting space. Take a look at these five tropical hotels that are guaranteed to offer a rejuvenating and inspiring experience for every attendee.
1. Hilton Garden Inn Kauai Wailua Bay overlooks the scenic inlet where the Wailua River meets the ocean. The hotel boasts 216 newly remodeled guest rooms with ergonomic furniture and modern island decor. Conveniently located on Kauai’s East coast, the hotel is just five miles from Lihue Airport (LIH) and a short drive to Kapaa town.
2. Further South, Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu has been selected by Marriott’s Autograph Collection to join its exclusive portfolio of luxury hotels upon completion of a multi-million dollar renovation in 2017. The 306 studio and villa resort has 12,000 sq. ft. of meeting space, including seven breakout rooms, 6,000 sq. ft. of pre-function space and two 8,000 sq. ft. event lawns.
3. On the Big Island of Hawaii, Mauna Kea Beach Hotel has unveiled the brand new Kauna’oa Ballroom, adding nearly 3,500 sq. ft. of indoor function space to 150,000 sq. ft. of meeting space the hotel shares with Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel. The new ballroom has floor-to-ceiling windows with Kauna’oa Bay in full view. Mauna Kea Beach Hotel offers 252 guest rooms, while Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel has 348 guest rooms.
4. After Uncle Billy’s Hilo Bay Hotel nearly closed earlier this year, the property received new ownership and a name change to Pagoda Hilo Bay Hotel last February. Located on historic Banyan Drive along Hilo Bay shoreline, the hotel will retain its local-style hospitality and traditions established by founder and longtime owner William “Uncle Billy” Kimi, Jr. Pagoda Hilo Bay Hotel offers 145 guest rooms, meeting facilities, an oceanfront pool and a general store.
5. Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa on Oahu completed updates to its lobby and Kona Moku Ballroom earlier this year. The 7,000-square-foot ballroom is now configurable into three separate rooms and features new multicolored chandeliers, refreshed carpeting and wallpaper. It offers a total of 29,585 sq. ft. of meeting space and 18 meeting rooms. The 1,310-room hotel is steps away from world-famous Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head Crater.