The Kahala Hotel & Resort

This upscale beachfront resort is 5 miles from shops and dining at Waikiki and 4 miles from the Honolulu Zoo.

The airy rooms and suites feature 40-inch flat-screen TVs, iPod docks and free Internet access, as well as coffeemakers and 24-hour room service. Minibars are available on request. Upgraded rooms have balconies, some with beach or lagoon views, while high-end suites add separate living areas and designer furnishings.

Freebies include surf and paddleboard lessons, local shuttle service, and bike and beach towel rentals. There's a spa, a fitness center and 5 restaurants, as well as a private lagoon with resident dolphins.