Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina

There’s little doubt that the Four Seasons is one of Oahu's poshest properties -- especially when compared to the so-called luxury properties found back in Waikiki. Its sprawling oceanfront location is well-manicured in the extreme, with blossoming flowers flanking emerald lawns all around, as palm trees chatter in the ocean breeze. And that's to say nothing of the stunning, rock-strewn coastline. The hotel opened in 2016 and was a previously a Marriott before undergoing a comprehensive renovation and upgrade. At 370 rooms, it's not a small property, but compared to some of the massive resorts across Oahu, it's certainly a bit more intimate. Overall, though, while this Four Seasons has spots where romance-and-serenity-seeking adults can escape, this can be a property that's dominated by families. In fact, if you’re looking for guaranteed quiet, there’s a good chance playing kids will disrupt any sought-after tranquility. What's more? The manmade beach here -- sheltered from the major ocean waves -- is shared with the Disney resort located next door. Even so, the sharp modern style and gorgeous setting of the resort make it a fine luxury pick when compared to other Oahu options. In general, guests are from the U.S., Australia, and Asia. Aside from families, the property draws quite a few honeymooners and babymooners. 

This Four Seasons is situated right on the shore in Ko Olina, a posh resort development that's a half-hour drive west of Honolulu. That secluded setting is, of course, part of the draw here, though if you're planning on exploring you'll need a rental car. Ko Olina itself has simple shopping outlets and golf courses all within a 10-minute walk of the property, but otherwise the area is made up of other resorts. Downtown Honolulu, Chinatown, and the Iolani Palace are 30 minutes away by car, while touristy Waikiki is a 45-minute drive away. Oahu's North Shore -- home to its best surf -- takes roughly 40 minutes to reach by car. Budget 20 to 25 minutes to drive to Honolulu International Airport. Alternatively, a heliport is a five-minute drive from the Four Seasons and trips by air to the airport are only five minutes long. The hotel also offers water shuttles on a speedboat (30 minutes door-to-door) or by private yacht (a two-hour trip). 

With floor-to-ceiling windows and gorgeous mountain or ocean views, the rooms here are some of the nicest that we saw in Oahu in 2017. Expect an abundance of soothing neutral tones that look lifted out of a luxury home magazine, though accents like banana leaf accent walls help remind guests that they are -- in fact -- in Hawaii. Black-and-white photos add a further touch of local charm. With king or queen beds, the rooms are also spacious -- a fact that's particularly helpful for families (especially since all rooms include sleeper sofas as well).Features are numerous and high-end, including massive 65-inch flat-screen TVs with cable and premium movie channels, Nespresso machines, and iPad digital concierges. Other standard features include desks, air-conditioning, electric kettles, free Wi-Fi, and minibars. Spacious balconies are a big bonus, and come with either ocean, partial ocean, or mountain views. There is plenty of balcony seating for taking in the views. Huge, marble-wrapped bathrooms are incredibly posh. Expect illuminated magnifying mirrors, glass-walled rainfall showers, and separate soaking tubs (some jetted). High-end bath amenities are provided, as are hairdryers. The hotel can lend curling irons and hair straighteners as well. Body-length pregnancy pillows for travelers on babymoons can also be requested.Four Seasons’ premium rooms have upgrades like Bose Bluetooth speakers, Toto Washlets (high-tech Japanese toilet seats), and Bulgari-branded toiletries. The hotel’s ultimate splurge is the amazing Penthouse. It comes with multiple bedrooms, a personal chef, butler, full-time attendants, and a wraparound ocean-view terrace. 

Unsurprising given this brand's reputation, features are numerous. However, for a luxury property, the number of families here may be surprising (and there are plenty of kid-friendly features to match). That starts with the beach, which is set in a protected manmade cove that makes it safe for swimming (even for kids). The free stand-up paddleboards, snorkeling gear, and surfboards are a rarity on Oahu, and there are free beach toys. As the beach is shared with the Disney resort next door, things can get a bit busy. Traditional Hawaiian outrigger canoe tours are also available for a fee. The resort has four heated pools with hot tubs that are surrounded by lounge chairs and umbrellas. Poolside service is available. The sleek adult-only infinity pool has the most serene vibe and includes cabanas that are available to rent. However, arrive early since seat saving can be an issue and there aren’t enough loungers for all guests. The family pool and serenity pool both have gorgeous ocean views. A lap pool is situated next to the gym for those who are looking to stay on top of their fitness regimen. The resort's 35,000-square-foot spa offers beauty and wellness treatments including manicures, pedicures, massages, facials, and hair and makeup services. There’s also a sauna, steam room, plunge pool, and a barber shop. There are four dining options on-site, though they get mixed reviews from previous guests. Restaurants include La Hiki Kitchen, a buffet breakfast and a la carte dinner spot serving American cuisine using locally sourced ingredients. Mina’s Fish House offers a seafood-focused lunch and dinner menu. Watermelon Bar and Grill is a casual poolside Hawaiian eatery for lunch and diner. Noe is the fine-dining Italian restaurant with a huge ocean-view patio. The open-air Hokuela Cafe is a coffee shop that serves snacks and sweets during the daytime. The property also has two bars.Boutiques are available for spa gear, beachware, and the like. In the mornings, there are free coffee and pastries in the lobby, plus water and juice throughout the day. The concierge can arrange babysitters, nannies, car rentals, tours, activities, taxis, shuttle service, and airport transfers. Parking is valet only (for a fee). There’s free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel and grounds -- including on the beach -- and the resort surprisingly doesn't charge a nightly amenity fee. 

Four Seasons' gym is situated in a standalone building behind the hotel, near the spa. The facility overlooks the tennis courts and is stocked with weight machines, medicine balls, and dumbbells. There are numerous, diverse cardio machines as well. The free fresh fruit, water, and Gatorade are nice pluses. The resort also have five tennis courts and a basketball court. Free rackets and balls can be borrowed and lessons are available for a fee. The resort also offers two yoga classes per day for free, and the morning oceanside class is certainly something special.

A kids' club for children 5 and older offers free activities including sand castle building, hula lessons, ukulele lessons, and glamping. The resort also has adult-oriented activities like Roy Sakuma-taught ukulele lessons, shell-necklace making classes, and flower crown classes. These, however, come with fees. Free class offerings like traditional Hawaiian weaving and painting are available as well.