Curator’s statement
A stay at Turtle Bay Resort on the North Shore of Oahu has always been on my dream list! After returning from my stay there, I’m already ready to go back!
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Having children of different ages, we found that this property truly had something for everyone. We saw plenty of couples without children as well and a few honeymooners. Personally I would put this more into the family friendly category unless you stay at one of the Bungalows. They are away from the main hotel and really special ocean front villas.
Location: 45min-1 hour drive north from HNL airport, count on traffic though.
The north shore is really special and nothing like Waikiki. It is filled with delicious food trucks, gorgeous views, world class surf breaks, and old school Hawaiian vibes.
For the Surfers: IDEAL Location on the North Shore of Oahu, it is a 10 min drive to Pipeline and other famous surf breaks. There is also a great surf spot directly off the hotel, board rentals as well as lessons are available. My husband and older kids were so stoked to surf here.
Hotel: You enter through the new open air lobby and greeted with a super friendly Staff and ocean views. Everyone we interacted with was so friendly and full of tips and advice. Felt like everyone was truly happy and proud to be working there.
Dining
Alaia- main dining- Reservations needed for dinner -Modern Hawaiian comfort fare in support of Kuilima Farm.
Lei Lei’s Bar & Grill-A local favorite overlooking the resort’s golf courses,
serving three meals daily.
Beach House by Roy Yamaguchi-set on the opposite side of the pool area overlooking the protected beach cove.
Poolside bar with light bites, cocktails, and a sunset view.
Off The Lip-Bar with live nightly entertainment, cocktails, and shareable bites.
Ocean Club Lounge-Private lounge offering all-day refreshments and food offerings in an oceanfront setting.
Ho‘olana-Lobby cafe with light breakfast items, fresh squeezed juices and grab-and-go options.
Private Dining-In-room options available, from casual a la carte items to multi-course specialty meals.
Small Market- I so appreciate when hotels have an option to grab some snacks or drinks without a full dining experience. We bought little items daily here for the kids and it saved us alot of money.
Views: The set up of the main hotel offers two sides, one faces the pool and surf break....the other faces the beach cove. I preferred the view of the poolside (Our older kids could go to the pool without us and I could see them,) but it definitely felt busier on this side so it is a good question to ask when booking. They are both beautiful but the rooms on the poolside have a full balcony and the beach cove side has a small lanai.
Cove side view
Pool side view
Family rooms and Connecting rooms: They can connect king to double queen in every category where both rooms exist. They can connect ocean view suites to queen queen guest rooms. They can connect King to Double Queen bungalows. Lots of connecting options.
Pools: Three Heated Pools: Adult, Keiki (Kid) with Two Water Slides, Mixed (Adult & Kids)
Bungalows have their own shared pool.
Two Jacuzzis
Cabanas
Poolside Food & Beverage Service
Retail: Super cute shops with clothing, beach/surf gear and local brands and events.
Spa- Under construction so I didn't see it but they have temporary treatment rooms.
Fitness: Small gym with all the essentials. Daily fitness classes offered.
Kids club: No drop off options but classes and activities available.
Construction: There is some visible construction but it is not disruptive and far from the guest rooms.
Additional Info: At check in everyone receives waterproof wristbands that function as a room key and a way to confirm you are a guest at the pool, it was brilliant and we liked not having to carry a traditional key around everywhere.
Perks
Breakfast for Two per room, per day ($60 credit) in Alaia
$100 Credit towards Golf, Spa or Stables posted to folio for incidentals (per room, per stay)
Cannot be used for Resort Fee/Taxes
No refund value for non-use
Early/Late check-in/out based on availability
Upgrade based on availability
Overall, we were super impressed and had the best time! Happy to answer any questions.
Need to know
This hotel is truly a dream. The staff goes above and beyond to make sure every moment of your time there is memorable.
This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Hawaii. In need of further inspiration? Check out Savannah Baker’s trip report, Site Inspection: Turtle Bay Resort.
Travel Advisor
Krystal Romagnoli
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