Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
This area is a new frontier for Oahu visitors. Currently, there is only one exquisite resort in
this beach-lined rural section of Oahu, but more are planned. Here's a chance to escape, far,
far away from the hustle and bustle of Waikiki. This is the sunny side of the island, with little
rain and lots of sandy beaches. People who love to play golf, enjoy the ocean, and participate
in cultural activities will have plenty to do. However, outside the Ko Olina Resort area, there
is little in the way of fine dining or interesting shopping.
J.W.MarriottIhilaniResort&SpaatKoOlina
★★★
When the 640-acre Ko Olina Resort com-
munity opened, some 17 miles and 30 minutes west of Honolulu Airport (and worlds away
from the tourist scene of Waikiki), critics wondered who would want to stay so far from the
city. Lots of people, it turns out. Ihilani (“heavenly splendor”) is nestled in a quiet location
between the Pacific Ocean and the first of four man-made beach lagoons. Featuring a luxury
spa and fitness center, plus tennis and one of Hawaii's premier golf courses, it's a haven of
relaxation and well-being. The spa alone is reason enough to come here: Treatments include
thalassotherapy, Swiss showers, Vichy showers, Roman pools, and various kinds of massages.
You can even have a fitness-and-relaxation program custom-designed.
It's hard to get a bad room in the 15-story building—some 85% of the units enjoy lagoon or
ocean views. Accommodations are luxuriously appointed and spacious (680 sq. ft.), and come
with huge lanais outfitted with very comfortable, cushioned teak furniture. A state-of-the-art
comfort-control-system panel operates the ceiling fans, air-conditioning, and lights. Luxuri-
ous marble bathrooms have deep soaking tubs, separate glass-enclosed showers, and many
amenities. Other extras include a daily newspaper, transportation to Waikiki and Ala Moana
Shopping Center, a 3-mile coastal fitness trail, and a stretch of four white-sand beaches for
ocean activities. The championship 18-hole Ko Olina Golf Course was designed by Ted Robin-
son.
The Ihilani's children's program puts all others to shame, offering year-round outdoor ad-
ventures and indoor learning activities for toddlers and teens alike. Other amenities for the
kids include a Computer Learning Center, a 125-gallon fish tank, and an evening lounge for
teen-themed parties.
92-1001 Olani St., Kapolei, HI 96707.
www.ihilani.com
.
&
800/626-4446
or 808/679-0079. Fax 808/679-0080. 387 units.
$309-$795 double; from $665 suite. Extra person $50. Children under 17 (maximum 2) stay free in parent's room using
existing bedding. Ask about Paradise Plus package rates, which include a free car rental or daily breakfast for 2 starting
at $369. AE, DC, DISC, MC, V. Parking $29. No bus service.
Amenities:
3 restaurants; 2 bars (w/nightly entertainment
poolside); babysitting; excellent children's program; concierge; championship 18-hole Ko Olina Golf Course; 2 outdoor
pools; room service; world-class spa; tennis club w/pro shop; watersports equipment rentals.
In room:
A/C, TV, hair dryer,
minibar, complimentary newspaper delivery, Wi-Fi ($13/day).
OAHU'S CAMPGROUNDS & WILDERNESS CABINS
If you plan to camp, you must bring your own gear or buy it here—no one on Oahu rents out
gear. If you bring your own equipment, remember that you can't transport fuel (even in a can-
ister) on the plane. If your camping stove requires butane fuel, just leave it at home; butane is
very difficult to find in Hawaii.
The best places to camp on Oahu are listed below (for locations, see the “Camping on
Oahu” map). TheBus's Circle Island route can get you to or near all these sites, but remember:
