The Kahala Hotel & Resort, Honolulu, Hawaii

Old Hollywood classic glamour meets relaxed Hawaiian charm at this beautiful property that is tucked away just a quick 10 minute zip from the bustle of Waikiki. Boasting views over Diamond Head and Koko Head, Kahala’s jewel in the crown is its own beachfront paradise, where you can take in the relaxed vibe of Hawaii without the hordes of beachgoers, and its spectacular natural saltwater lagoon. And while the lagoon is gorgeous, we are starry eyed at what lives in it

– a family of playful Atlantic bottlenose dolphins. The Dolphin Quest Experience has a host of programs where guests can see, play or swim with dolphins, and we choose the Kids Aquatic Experience for our daughter, who still talks about it on a daily basis weeks later. She was able to practise her own dolphin manoeuvres when we went snorkelling in the bay in front of the hotel, and, when a couple of sea turtles swam quite close to us, I could hear her squealing with delight through her snorkel. Kahala really does get the balance right for guests – it is fantastic for families but also appeals to couples and celebrities, with an impressive number of A-list guests.

Some guests stay at Waikiki in the thick of the action for a few days, then move down to Kahala to catch their breath and really take in the charms of its location. The restaurant and bar options are excellent, the staff are so friendly and if you just have to head back up to Waikiki or you want to hit the shops, the Kahala has its own shuttle service to Waikiki, Ala Moana Shopping Center and Kahala Mall. As for us, I had no chance of getting my daughter away from the dolphins and turtles and stingrays and fish and that incredible beach, and between you and me, that was just perfect. kahalaresort.com