Bottom Line Up Front: Hawaii's sky-high cash rates make points redemptions incredibly valuable. You can get 3-5+ cents per point at luxury properties, with some redemptions delivering over $1,000 per night in value. World of Hyatt dominates with properties like Andaz Maui and Grand Hyatt Kauai, while Hilton and Marriott offer solid backup options.
The islands that gave us the perfect mai tai and endless sunsets also serve up some of the best points redemption values in the world. When cash rates regularly hit $800-1,500+ per night at luxury resorts, your hotel points suddenly become incredibly powerful.
We've analyzed over 50 Hawaii hotel properties across all major loyalty programs to find the absolute best redemptions for 2025. From overwater bungalows to cliffside retreats, here's how to turn your points into paradise.
Quick Reference: Best Hawaii Hotels by Program
Top Value Picks for 2025:
Grand Hyatt Kauai (World of Hyatt): 25,000-40,000 points per night, cash rates $600-1,200, delivering 3-4.8¢ per point value. Perfect for luxury seekers wanting maximum value.
Andaz Maui at Wailea (World of Hyatt): 25,000-45,000 points per night, cash rates $800-1,400, delivering 3.2-5.6¢ per point value. Ideal for adults-focused luxury experience.
Grand Wailea Maui (Marriott Bonvoy): 70,000-85,000 points per night, cash rates $900-1,500, delivering 1.3-2.1¢ per point value. The ultimate family destination with waterslides and pools.
Hilton Hawaiian Village (Hilton Honors): 80,000-95,000 points per night, cash rates $400-700, delivering 0.5-0.9¢ per point value. Best option for beginners to Hawaii luxury.
Turtle Bay Resort (Marriott Bonvoy): 50,000-70,000 points per night, cash rates $500-900, delivering 1.0-1.8¢ per point value. Perfect North Shore location for surfers and nature lovers.
Fairmont Kea Lani (Marriott Bonvoy): 60,000-85,000 points per night, cash rates $700-1,200, delivering 1.2-2.0¢ per point value. All-suite luxury in Wailea.
World of Hyatt: The Clear Winner for Hawaii
If you're serious about maximizing value in Hawaii, World of Hyatt should be your top priority. The program consistently delivers 3+ cents per point in the islands, making it the gold standard for luxury redemptions.
Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa
The Points Party Verdict: The best overall value for luxury in Hawaii
This 602-room resort on Kauai's south shore regularly delivers 4+ cents per point value. With multiple pools, a world-class spa, and direct beach access, it's everything you want from a Hawaiian resort.
Points Cost: 25,000-40,000 per night (Category 7)Cash Rates: $600-1,200+ per nightSweet Spot: Off-peak stays in spring/fall for maximum value
The Grand Hyatt Kauai shines during peak seasons when cash rates soar above $1,000. We've seen redemptions deliver over $1,200 in value for just 40,000 points – that's an incredible 3¢ per point.
Maximizing Your Stay:
- Book standard rooms; upgrades to ocean view often come free with World of Hyatt elite status
- The resort fee ($45/night) still applies on award stays
- Use the fifth night free benefit on paid stays if you're a Globalist
Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort
The Points Party Verdict: Perfect for couples seeking sophisticated luxury
This adults-focused resort (kids allowed but vibe skews mature) offers some of Hawaii's best points value. The property features multiple infinity pools, direct beach access, and that sleek Andaz aesthetic.
Points Cost: 25,000-45,000 per night (Category 7)Cash Rates: $800-1,400+ per nightSweet Spot: Shoulder seasons when cash rates hit $1,000+ but points stay at 35,000
The Andaz Maui regularly breaks the 4¢ per point barrier. During peak winter months, we've tracked redemptions worth over 5¢ per point – making it one of the most valuable hotel redemptions anywhere.
Pro Tips:
- The resort has no resort fee on award stays
- Morimoto restaurant on-site offers world-class dining
- Two pools cater to different vibes – choose accordingly
Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa
The Points Party Verdict: Family-friendly with decent value
While not as luxurious as the Grand Hyatt or Andaz, the Hyatt Regency Maui offers solid family accommodations with good points value.
Points Cost: 25,000-35,000 per night (Category 6)Cash Rates: $500-900 per nightSweet Spot: Summer family season for best value-to-amenities ratio
Earning World of Hyatt Points
The best way to earn Hyatt points? The Chase World of Hyatt Credit Card, currently offering up to 2 free nights and 25,000 bonus points worth over $1,037 through August 28, 2025.
You can also transfer Chase Ultimate Rewards points to World of Hyatt at 1:1 ratio using cards like the Chase Sapphire Preferred or Chase Sapphire Reserve.
Marriott Bonvoy: Solid Backup Options
While Marriott Bonvoy can't match Hyatt's value, several properties offer reasonable redemptions – especially when you factor in the program's massive earning potential.
Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort
The Points Party Verdict: The ultimate family paradise (if you can stomach the points cost)
This 780-room Maui resort is legendary for its 9-pool complex, complete with waterslides, caves, and a lazy river. It's Disney World meets luxury resort.
Points Cost: 70,000-85,000 per night (Category 8)Cash Rates: $900-1,500+ per nightReality Check: Even at peak value (1.8¢ per point), this isn't great value
The Grand Wailea requires massive points outlays, but the property delivers an unmatched family experience. If you're swimming in Marriott points and traveling with kids, it's worth considering.
What Makes It Special:
- 2,000-foot lazy river with multiple slides
- Multiple beach areas with different vibes
- Spa Grande offers world-class treatments
Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui
The Points Party Verdict: All-suite luxury with reasonable redemption rates
Every room is a suite at this Wailea property, making it perfect for families or those wanting extra space.
Points Cost: 60,000-85,000 per night (Category 7)Cash Rates: $700-1,200+ per nightSweet Spot: Shoulder seasons for best value ratio
The Westin Maui Resort & Spa, Ka'anapali Beach
The Points Party Verdict: Solid beachfront location with aquatic playground
This family-friendly resort features multiple pools and direct beach access on famous Ka'anapali Beach.
Points Cost: 50,000-70,000 per night (Category 6)Cash Rates: $500-900 per night
Earning Marriott Bonvoy Points
The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card offers the best earning potential with 6X points on Marriott purchases and valuable annual benefits including an 85,000-point free night certificate.
For business travelers, the Marriott Bonvoy Business American Express Card provides similar earning rates with business-focused perks.
Hilton Honors: Best for Beginners
Hilton Honors offers the most accessible path to Hawaii luxury, with multiple earning options and reasonable redemption rates.
Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort
The Points Party Verdict: Iconic Waikiki location with reasonable points cost
This massive resort complex defines Waikiki for many visitors. With multiple towers, pools, and direct beach access, it's a destination unto itself.
Points Cost: 80,000-95,000 per night (Category 8)Cash Rates: $400-700 per nightReality Check: Lower cash rates mean modest points value (0.5-0.9¢ per point)
While the points value isn't spectacular, the Hilton Hawaiian Village offers an accessible entry point to Hawaii luxury. The resort's central Waikiki location and family-friendly amenities make it popular despite modest redemption value.
Grand Wailea Maui, A Waldorf Astoria Resort
Wait – didn't we already cover this? Actually, the Grand Wailea participates in both Marriott Bonvoy AND Hilton Honors programs, giving you redemption flexibility.
Hilton Points Cost: 120,000-150,000 per nightMarriott Points Cost: 70,000-85,000 per nightWinner: Marriott offers better value
Earning Hilton Honors Points
The Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card offers exceptional earning with 12X points at Hilton properties, plus an annual free weekend night certificate.
For maximum earning, consider the business version: The Hilton Honors American Express Business Card provides similar benefits with additional business categories.
IHG One Rewards: The Dark Horse
IHG One Rewards has limited Hawaii presence, but their single property delivers surprising value.
Holiday Inn Resort Waikiki Beachcomber
The Points Party Verdict: Budget-friendly beachfront access
This isn't luxury, but it's steps from Waikiki Beach at a fraction of the points cost of competitors.
Points Cost: 40,000-50,000 per nightCash Rates: $300-500 per nightSweet Spot: Peak season when cash rates spike
The IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card offers up to 140,000-point annual free night certificates – perfect for covering multiple nights at this property.
Island-by-Island Breakdown
Oahu: Urban Paradise
Best Overall: Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort & SpaBest Value: Hilton Hawaiian VillageHidden Gem: Moana Surfrider (Marriott)
Oahu offers the most hotel options but also the most competition. Waikiki properties dominate, with beachfront locations commanding premium rates.
Maui: Luxury Central
Best Overall: Andaz Maui at WaileaBest for Families: Grand WaileaBest Value: Fairmont Kea Lani
Maui's resort scene centers on Wailea and Ka'anapali, both offering world-class properties with corresponding price tags.
Kauai: Natural Beauty
Best Overall: Grand Hyatt KauaiOnly Other Option: Marriott's Kauai Beach Club (timeshare)
Limited options on Kauai make the Grand Hyatt even more valuable. Book early – availability fills quickly.
Big Island: Diverse Landscape
Best Overall: Fairmont Orchid (Marriott)Budget Option: Hilton Waikoloa VillageUnique Stay: Mauna Kea Beach Hotel (Marriott)
The Big Island's diverse geography offers everything from beach resorts to volcano proximity.
Booking Strategies for Maximum Value
Timing Your Redemption
Peak Season (December-March):
- Highest cash rates = best points value
- Limited availability requires advance booking
- Consider shoulder dates for better availability
Shoulder Season (April-May, September-November):
- Moderate rates with decent points value
- Better award availability
- Ideal weather with fewer crowds
Summer (June-August):
- Family season with moderate rates
- Good points value at family properties
- Book early for popular resorts
Advanced Booking Tips
- Book Refundable Cash Rates First: Secure your dates, then search for award availability
- Use Multiple Accounts: Have family members search simultaneously for better inventory access
- Consider Off-Peak Days: Tuesday-Thursday often offers better availability
- Monitor Release Patterns: Hotels often release additional award inventory 2-3 weeks before arrival
Credit Card Strategy for Hawaii Redemptions
The Ultimate Combo: Chase + Hyatt
- Chase Sapphire Reserve: 3X on travel and dining, 50% transfer bonus
- Chase World of Hyatt Card: Direct earning + annual free night
- Chase Freedom Unlimited: 1.5X on everything feeds the system
This combination lets you earn Ultimate Rewards points on everyday spending, then transfer to Hyatt for maximum Hawaii value.
Alternative Strategy: Marriott Focus
- Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant: 6X at Marriott + 85K free night
- Marriott Bonvoy Business: Business categories + free night
- Marriott Bonvoy Bevy: 4X dining with no annual fee
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Resort Fees Still Apply
Most Hawaii hotels charge resort fees ($25-45/night) even on award stays. Factor these into your value calculations.
Peak Season Availability
Don't assume award inventory exists during peak times. Hawaii hotels prioritize cash bookings during high-demand periods.
Transfer Timing
Hotel programs often have transfer delays. Chase Ultimate Rewards transfers are instant, but other programs may take 24-48 hours.
Cancellation Policies
Award bookings often have stricter cancellation policies than cash reservations. Understand the rules before booking.
Alternative Strategies
Vacation Rentals
Consider using points for flights and booking vacation rentals with cash. Hawaii's vacation rental market offers unique properties that hotels can't match.
Island Hopping
Use points for expensive inter-island flights with Hawaiian Airlines rather than hotels, especially if you're comfortable with vacation rentals.
Hybrid Approach
Mix points and cash bookings across your stay. Use points for the most expensive nights, cash for shoulder periods.
Real-World Redemption Examples
Example 1: Maui Honeymoon
- Andaz Maui: 5 nights at 35,000 points/night = 175,000 points
- Cash Value: $6,500 (during peak season)
- Points Value: 3.7¢ per point
- Earning Strategy: Chase Sapphire Reserve + World of Hyatt card combo
Example 2: Family Vacation
- Grand Wailea: 7 nights at 75,000 points/night = 525,000 points
- Cash Value: $8,400
- Points Value: 1.6¢ per point
- Earning Strategy: Marriott credit card ecosystem + business spending
Example 3: Budget-Conscious Trip
- Hilton Hawaiian Village: 4 nights at 85,000 points/night = 340,000 points
- Cash Value: $2,400
- Points Value: 0.7¢ per point
- Earning Strategy: Hilton Surpass card + everyday spending
When to Pay Cash Instead
Low-Value Redemptions
If you're getting less than 1.5¢ per point value, consider paying cash and saving points for better opportunities.
Promotional Rates
Hawaii hotels occasionally offer significant cash discounts. Compare promotional cash rates against points values.
Status Benefits
Paying cash often provides better elite benefits, including potential room upgrades and resort credits.
FAQ
Q: Which loyalty program offers the best Hawaii redemptions?A: World of Hyatt consistently delivers the highest points values (3-5+ cents per point) at properties like Andaz Maui and Grand Hyatt Kauai. If you're focused on Hawaii travel, prioritize Hyatt points.
Q: Do resort fees apply to award bookings in Hawaii?A: Yes, most Hawaii hotels charge resort fees ($25-45/night) even on award stays. These fees cover amenities like WiFi, pool access, and fitness centers.
Q: How far in advance should I book Hawaii award stays?A: Book as early as possible – ideally 11+ months in advance. Hawaii award availability is extremely limited, especially during peak season (December-March).
Q: Can I use points for inter-island flights?A: Yes, Hawaiian Airlines participates in several transfer programs. However, cash tickets are often reasonably priced ($80-150), making points more valuable for hotels.
Q: What's the best island for points redemptions?A: Maui offers the highest concentration of luxury properties and best points values. Kauai has limited options but excellent value at Grand Hyatt Kauai. Oahu provides the most variety but moderate values.
Q: Should I book refundable cash rates while searching for awards?A: Absolutely. Hawaii hotels sell out quickly. Book refundable cash rates to secure your dates, then keep searching for award availability.
The Bottom Line
Hawaii represents some of the world's best hotel points redemptions, but success requires strategy. World of Hyatt dominates with consistent 3-5¢ per point values, while Marriott and Hilton offer solid alternatives with broader earning ecosystems.
The key to Hawaii success? Start earning points early, book as far in advance as possible, and be flexible with dates. With cash rates regularly exceeding $1,000 per night, your points become incredibly valuable in paradise.
Ready to start earning points for your Hawaii dream trip? Check out our complete guide to Chase Ultimate Rewards transfer partners or explore the best Hyatt hotels to book with points for even more redemption inspiration.
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