Kohala Sundown

From the main suite, the pool is steps away – a private backyard oasis framed by tropical gardens, with a hot tub and sweeping golf course views catching the last of the evening light. The covered lanai is made for long alfresco dinners, and the kitchen behind it is generous enough to actually feed a crowd. Beyond the villa, a recreation centre adds lap and freeform pools to the mix, while a private beach club with gear and lifeguard staff means Hapuna Beach – one of Hawaii's finest white-sand stretches – is a nineteen-minute drive with everything you need already sorted.

Home truths:
* You'll want to hire a car here, as getting around the Kohala Coast independently makes the most of what the area has to offer.
* The twin beds in the fourth bedroom can be pushed together to make a king – let your host know in advance if you'd prefer that configuration.
* If you're travelling with little ones, your host can provide a Pack 'n Play, full crib, high chair, bed rails, toilet-training seat, step stool, baby monitors, swim belt or vest, bike trailer, and jogging stroller – though these are subject to availability, so request them ahead of time.
* Ground-level sliding doors leading to the pool area are fitted with alarms by law – these will sound if a door is left open, so younger guests will need to be mindful when moving between inside and outside.