Site Inspection at Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina

Where to Stay

Four Seasons Resort O`ahu at Ko Olina

Location

Located 20 miles west of Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, the Four Seasons offers an escape from the hustle bustle of Honolulu in a well-manicured resort community. While taxis are available at the airport, it is recommended to either take a ride share car or pre-arrange a taxi with the Four Seasons otherwise you could risk paying a higher fare.

Once in Ko Olina, there is a fabulous walking path that spans the length of the four lagoons which are perfect for swimming with their calm waters. Also located in the community are shops like SoHa Living and restaurants like Monkeypod by Merriman.

Your favorite thing to visit, however, just might be the adults-only infinity pool that directly overlooks the ocean where you can watch whales breaching in season and the sun melting below the horizon. Pair that with the mobile bar, aptly named Dr. Mai Tai’s, and you’ll never want to leave.

Room Categories

The way the building is laid out truly makes for not a bad room in the house. While Oceanfront Rooms are the most sought after category, it may come as a surprise that Partial Oceanview Rooms may have equally spectacular views that are uninterrupted. The hotel has categorized these ocean views as “partial” because there may be a few inches of another balcony that may be in view, but that doesn’t detract a thing. Choose between a lagoon view or a view of the ocean up the coastline - either way you can’t go wrong. If you’re looking to be a little more economical, the resort has garden view rooms that have a view of the mountains.

For a step up from standard rooms, One Bedroom Suites and Junior Suites offer a bit more space with an option for connecting standard rooms. The property’s four specialty suites are quite the leap into the next category and are absolutely stunning. The Residence has three bedrooms, making it a great option for families. Next up is the Pacific Suite and its private hot tub may look a bit familiar if you’ve seen the movie Blue Crush. The Presidential Suite is everything you’d expect from a suite with that name. The Penthouse takes it to the next level by presiding over the 17th floor with a spacious outdoor lanai.

Dining

If your day starts with breakfast at La Hiki, then your day is off to a great start. The restaurant boasts a full buffet breakfast, including Japanese specialties. The a la carte menu should also not be missed. The avocado toast is one of the best I’ve ever had (I am a self-proclaimed connaisseur!). On Sundays, La Hiki does a brunch that is a must-do. Reservations for brunch are highly recommended and fill up quickly so plan ahead.

Mina’s Fish House, located adjacent to the beach is another spot you cannot miss. I’ve eaten here many times and on my last visit I had truly one of the best meals I’ve ever eaten. The fish is so fresh they even have a fish sommelier on hand to talk about the different varieties on the menu and what will pair well with them. Plan on ordering the seafood tower, tuna tartar, hamachi crudo, and the butterfish (when it’s on the menu). You’re welcome. As an added bonus, their fabulous cocktail menu even includes a cocktail served in a SPAM can with a paper umbrella. Does it get any more Hawai'ian than that?

For a special night, the vibe at Noe includes dining under the trees and market lights next to the koi pond. Handmade pastas, homemade whipped ricotta, and quality meats are the highlights of this Southern Italian menu. You almost forget for a second that you are in Hawai'i.

This property and location is great for a romantic getaway, family trip, or a girls trip. It’s proximity to all of the Oahu hotspots makes it a great jumping off point and a sanctuary to return to at the end of the day. Reach out and let me be your Hawai'i guide!

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Hawai'i. In need of further inspiration? Check out Savannah Baker’s guide, Guide to Oahu, Hawai'i.