Curator’s statement
Personally, when I think of paradise, Hawai'i comes alive in my head. I’ve been five times to this wonderful archipelago, but I just can’t get enough: the nature is wild, the sea is powerful yet calm and the people... the Hawai'ians are just the most welcoming, caring and wonderful people you will ever meet. If it’s your first time in Hawai'i and you only have a few days to spare, I would go and explore Oahu to make sure you’ll want to return and explore more and more and more of these amazing islands. If you’re looking for the comfort of having everything at your fingertips, from department stores to world-class restaurants, look no further than Waikiki and stay at the Westin Moana Surfrider: it’s an icon in Waikiki, just steps away from Duke’s Statue, and has possibly the best restaurant in the area. For a more relaxed and cool vibe in Waikiki, Kaimana is a great choice. My pick is, and will always be, the Four Seasons Ko’Olina: the impeccable service, the calm waters of the lagoon and the amazing spa make it the perfect stay in Oahu. If you’re on a romantic mission and want to splurge, however, head to the North Shore and stay at Turtle Bay!
The Fora Difference
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Where to stay
Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina
Oahu’s most luxurious beach resort, with postcard-perfect Pacific Ocean views, a playground of pools, lagoons and ocean water sports, plus a prized kids’ club.
Fora Perks
- ★
When you book Four Seasons through Fora, you will enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits. Your advisor will be pleased to give you more details.
Kaimana Beach Hotel
A 1960s icon, and the only Waikiki boutique hotel directly on the sand. Stay here for the balconied bedrooms, laid-back eatery and Pacific Ocean soundtrack.
Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa, Waikiki Beach
Immerse yourself in the tropical paradise of Moana Surfrider, where historic charm, stunning oceanfront views and luxurious amenities combine for an unforgettable escape in the heart of Waikiki, Hawai’i.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 hotel / resort credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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Welcome amenities.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
The Ritz-Carlton O‘ahu, Turtle Bay
A revamped North Shore favorite, with an emphasis on showcasing Hawaiian culture, cuisine and the beautiful coastal scenery.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 resort / hotel credit.
- ★
Breakfast daily.
- ★
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Halekulani Hotel
Serene and elegant Waikiki accommodation with top-tier service, award-winning cuisine and unique amenities in a beautifully designed space.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 hotel / resort credit.
- ★
Breakfast daily.
- ★
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Unlock perks by contacting Dalila to book your trip.
Day 1: Relax
Settle into your hotel and relax at the beach. Head out to Waikiki for a stroll and dine at the Beach House at the Moana Surfrider. When in Waikiki, stop at the Christmas Store to buy unique ornaments and don’t miss the Honolulu Cookie Company: to die for!
Day 2: Lanikai & botanical gardens
Start early your day and reach the beach of Lanikai before the wind rises, spend a few hours enjoying the sun and the beautiful settings, then head to the botanical gardens to admire the lush nature of Hawai'i. Stop for a late lunch at Duke’s Waikiki and enjoy the sunset at Diamond Head.
Day 3: Kaneohe & Kualoa Ranch
Drive through one of the most scenic highways in the world, the Pali, and reach the harbor of Kaneohe from where you will sail to the sandbar: swim with turtles, sip your drink and lunch on board for a wonderful morning of sea and discovery.
Back on the land, head back to the jurassic era at Kualoa Ranch. Choose between one of the many tours available — don’t miss the Jurassic Park tour to get on the set of the blockbuster movie.
Day 4: Hanauma Bay & a luau
Spend the morning at the Hanauma Bay, a natural reserve where you will be able to swim with incredible marine life and enjoy a secluded beach in what it used to be a crater of a volcano. Spend your evening attending a traditional luau to discover more about the Hawai'ian culture.
Day 5: Waimea Valley
Your adventure is almost over, so head to the North Shore and explore the Waimea Valley, swim under a waterfall and then head to Giovanni’s Shrimp Trunk for lunch. The garlic shrimps are to die for. Spend the afternoon hopping in between beaches and don’t miss the sunset at Waimea Beach Park. End your holiday with a dinner at Turtle Bay Resort, at the Beach House by Roy Yamaguchi, one of the greatest Hawaiian chefs.
![Advisor - Dalila Calabrese](https://media.foratravel.com/image/upload/v1711123941/contentful-migration/advisors/image/4C765571-1F7E-4B39-A563-44FFFFA5728D_-_Dalila_Calabrese.jpg)
Travel Advisor
Dalila Calabrese
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Oahu. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, 24 Hours in Napoli... With Kids!