Hawaii is a popular vacation spot, with scenic views and a relaxed island lifestyle. According to the Frommer's travel website, Hawaii is known for its openness and acceptance, making it a good vacation choice for members of the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender (GLBT) community. Many of the Hawaiian islands also offer gay owned or gay friendly hotels for GLBT visitors.
The Kalani Oceanside Retreat located on Hawaii's Big Island is owned in part by members of the GLBT community. Kalani offers a range of accommodations including two-story tree houses, private cottages, lodge rooms and basic campsites. Rooms at the hotel do not include televisions or telephones, as the hotel encourages relaxation and well-being. All accommodations include access to hotel amenities, including a pool, jacuzzi and sauna. Kalani also offers workshops, retreats and seminars at various times throughout the year. Many of these events are focused on gay travelers and range from eco-friendly workshops to nude yoga retreats.
Kalani Oceanside Retreat
RR 2 Box 4500
Pahoa, HI 96778
800-800-6886
kalani.com
Gay owned Mahina Kai, on the island of Kauai, provides GLBT travelers a variety accommodation options and bed and breakfast service on a nearly two acre property. While the Mahina Kai opened in 1985 as a gay only resort, the hotel now welcomes members of the GLBT community and straight travelers. All rooms provide private baths and a queen or king size bed, while the "Bamboo Cottage" also provides a small kitchenette for guests. The Mahina Kai's saltwater pool is clothing optional and is surrounded by tropical and Japanese gardens.
Mahina Kai Ocean Villa
P.O. Box 699
Kauai, HI 96703
800-337-1134
mahinakai.com
Located on the island of Maui and focusing on the needs of gay and lesbian travelers, the gay owned Maui Sunseeker is the largest hotel serving the GLBT community, according to its website. The hotel offers 17 rooms and suites for its guests to choose from and provides guests with use of two hot tubs, gas grills, a clothing optional deck, a computer room, concierge services, beach towel use, a laundromat and an ice machine. All rooms come equipped with a microwave, coffee pot, refrigerator, cable television and a lanai.
Maui Sunseeker
551 South Kihei Road
Kihei, Maui HI 96753
800-532-6284
mauisunseeker.com
A GLBT friendly resort on Oahu, the Waikiki Grand Hotel is located within walking distance of the Kapahulu Pier. The hotel offers guest a range of amenities including a pool, spa, sundeck, complementary luggage storage, an activity desk, vending machines, coin laundry, an Internet kiosk and a business center. All rooms at the hotel come furnished with a hair dryer, phone, microwave, refrigerator, coffee maker, television, high speed Internet access and a tub/shower. Some rooms and suites are equipped with kitchenettes and DVD players.
Waikiki Grand Hotel
134 Kapahulu Avenue
Honolulu, Hawaii 96815
808-923-1814
castleresorts.com
