Things to do / Travel Guide
Oahu is certainly the most developed of the Hawaiian islands, and for those seeking a luxury-themed vacation, this fact can only assist. Indeed, if you are looking for a more urban experience in the middle of the Pacific, this is the right choice. Honolulu is urban, all right, but with world-class beaches right in its front yard. With Waikiki Beach as the focal point of most hotels in the area and Diamond Head as a backdrop for spectacular views, it's no wonder so many people choose Oahu as their vacation spot. Some people also venture a bit outside the Waikiki area for a very different experience.
Luxurious Accommodation in Oahu
The key to a top-flight luxury experience starts with your all-important choice of accommodations. Fortunately, in Oahu, you have a lot to choose from. For instance, there's the Sheraton Moana Surfrider Hotel, which you can choose for its historic charm and first-class service. Another excellent option is the W Honolulu by Westin Hotels. It's expensive, but any hotel that has a button on your room phone that says “whatever/whenever” is okay with us. Plus the Waikiki location is fantastic.
Another incredible luxury entry is the Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort & Spa. This place has tropical gardens, waterfalls, four-star restaurants, exotic wildlife, entertainment, two new top-of-the-line spas, over 100 shops, water activities, a private lagoon, three pools, Hawaiian and Polynesian cultural activities, two miniature golf courses, and beautiful Waikiki Beach on its doorstep. Whew!
JW Marriott Ihilani Resort & Spa at Ko Olina is another fine selection. Located in the serenity of Oahu's west coast, far from the action of Waikiki, it is still just under a half hour away from Honolulu International Airport. Guests will enjoy a luxury spa, fitness center, championship tennis, and golf. The rooms are decked out and spacious, with big lanais.
Some of the luxury hotels in Honolulu have been serving guests for a long time, and have the concept down pat. A perfect example of this is the Halekulani. This venerable Hawaiian classic is almost 100 years old, yet has renewed itself beautifully over that span of time. Today, this property, with its five great buildings draped across the North Shore, is still one of the top-rated hotels in Hawaii, and a favorite for luxury-seekers. Each room has its own lanai, where gorgeous sunsets and ocean views await.
The Royal Hawaiian is an oasis among the regular structures that span Waikiki Beach. Nestled amongst the buildings of the Waikiki beachfront, the Royal Hawaiian presents beautiful gardens, gentle lighting, and a pleasantly pink structure - thus the nickname “The Pink Palace.” Rooms are tasteful, comfortable, and pleasantly full of amenities. Service is a priority to all the staff, and this is one of the main reasons visitors recognize this resort as a benchmark of luxury since 1927. It doesn't hurt any that it's located on one of the island's best beaches, either.
If you want to get out of the Honolulu hustle and bustle a bit, consider Turtle Bay Resort. This magnificent property is about an hour's drive from Waikiki, and, after a $35 million renovation, it's definitely worth the drive, even just to see. The resort is spectacular, resting on a lush 800 acres, and guests will appreciate the impressive list of activities that fully takes advantage of five miles of beaches and secluded coves. The rooms have gorgeous views, but they are pricey. Another option gives lower-key luxury with available beach cottages. These bungalows are right on the oceanfront and include four-post beds, goose down comforters, and hardwood floors. The view from these units is truly unforgettable, and your stay will be as well.
Luxurious Dining in Oahu
Now, we're going to try to coax you out of these great luxurious Oahu resorts for a dining experience of the highest order. Some choices to consider are the Surf Room, in Waikiki, with its super-fresh seafood. Also, 3660 Restaurant offers its own self-styled Euro-Island cuisine. Located in east Honolulu, Chef/Owner Russell Siu and staff make sure it'll be a worthwhile visit.
Up next, consider Alan Wong's in Honolulu. This fantastic restaurant offers dishes that are a direct reflection of the diversified cultures living in the islands, using the freshest of locally-grown produce and the bounties of the Pacific Ocean, this is Hawaiian Regional Cuisine at its best.
Another stellar luxurious dining option on Oahu is the Hanohano. This treasure is located on the 30th floor of the Sheraton Waikiki. Chef Ron Amasol offers an award-winning dining room that serves exquisite Continental and Regional Hawaiian fare. The menu is complemented by a first-class wine list featuring European vintages as well as select California wines. The desserts are beyond tempting, so save some room, if you can.
Last but not least is La Mer, at the Halekulani in Honolulu. In this, Hawaii's only Five Diamond restaurant, Chef Yves Garnier presents an award winning Neoclassic French menu, using only the finest fresh local ingredients. Outstanding service, beautiful surroundings, and an oceanfront setting make this a dining experience you'll never forget.
Luxurious Activities in Oahu
Following your meal, perhaps you'll want to hit the town for some nightlife. Dance clubs to consider are Wonder Lounge at the W Honolulu and Lewer's Lounge at the Halekulani Hotel. Also try Esprit Night Club at the Sheraton Waikiki or for a nice cocktail, catch the sunset at Aaron's, at the top of the Ala Moana Hotel, or the Mai Tai Bar at the Royal Hawaiian.
If you prefer something a bit more unique, head out of Honolulu by sea on one of the popular dinner or sunset cruises, or by air on a helicopter tour, to view some of the less accessible areas of the island (think volcanic cones, rain forests, etc.).
In Oahu, luxury also finds its way around 18 holes pretty well. For the golf enthusiast, this is heaven on earth. You can find plenty of courses to play with no problem, but there are a couple of standouts worth highlighting.
Koolau is one of those rare golf courses that is so beautiful, your score becomes secondary. Good thing, too, because the course challenges its players , too. Carved right out of a tropical rainforest by top course designer Dick Nugent in 1992, players are likely to continuously ooh and ahh at every turn. Located in Kionaole Kaneohe, about 40 minutes east of Honolulu, we sincerely wish you and your new case of golf balls luck.
Another course that you should try is the Wiakele Golf Club. The course was designed by internationally-renowned golf course architect Ted Robinson. Located just a 30-minute drive west of Waikiki, the course is 18 holes of abject beauty. With views overlooking Pearl Harbor, and a sweeping view all the way to Diamond Head, visitors get a fantastic golf experience, Hawaiian style.
If your idea of luxury involves hunting for that certain special something to take back home with you, you'll be in your element on Oahu. Shopping is a treat here, except for the wallet that is. For example, you can shop at Vera Wang's boutique, located in the Halekulani Resort. At the Royal Hawaiian, you'll find designs by Salvatore Ferragamo, the acclaimed Italian fashion house. If you are a bit more adventurous, you'll be surprised what you can find at the Big Kahuna Marketplace in Honolulu. Brimming with local craftsmen and artists, it is here that you'll likely find an eclectic mix of local charm.
So, as you can see, a luxury-themed vacation to Oahu is breeze. A tropical ocean breeze, that is. Enjoy yourselves and Aloha!
Luxury Vacation Ideas in Honolulu, Waikiki and Oahu, Hawaii
Luxury-Vacations
Mandara Spa at the Hilton Hawaiian Village
The Spa Suites at the Kahala Mandarin Oriental Hawaii
Spa Luana at the Turtle Bay Resort
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