Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina

With a wealth of worthy candidates and a continuous stream of travelers itching to check them out, the debate over which is the best luxury resort hotel on O’ahu rages on. Very much in the mix, the Four Seasons Resort at Ko Olina offers a relaxed, somewhat serene alternative to longtime favorites such as the Halekulani and the Royal Hawaiian, whilst matching the high standards and meticulous attention to detail of those Waikiki landmarks.

Nestled on the island’s sunny leeward coast, around 40 minutes drive from downtown Honolulu and 30 minutes from Daniel K. Inouye airport (or just ten if you opt for helicopter transfers!), the Four Seasons is one of a number of resort hotels in the vacation and residential community of Ko Olina.

Opened in 1998 and designed by acclaimed architect Edward Killingsworth (the man behind the iconic Frank House in Long Beach, California), this 17 story hotel, which sits between Lanikuhonua nature reserve and a beautiful lagoon, houses 371 guest rooms and suites with bright, airy décor and stunning ocean views. All accommodations are tastefully appointed in an authentic Hawaiian style with traditional materials, natural color palette and spacious private lanais that seamlessly blend indoor and out. But the four speciality suites - Pacific, Penthouse, Presidential and Residence - are of particular note for their expansive, residential-style living spaces and elevated levels of luxury.

Dining options abound at the Four Seasons with unique culinary experiences around every corner. From award-winning seafood at Mina’s Fish House to Noe’s contemporary take on southern Italian cuisine and La Hiki’s Hawai’i-inspired American classics, this hotel does al fresco fine dining with aplomb. Add to that the poolside Waterman Bar for casual bites and craft beers, the rooftop Five-One-Six for signature cocktails and mesmeric sunset vistas, and Hokulea for artisanal coffee, pastries and baked goods, and there’s almost certain to be an onsite eatery to suit even the most difficult to please patron.

As well as top-class accommodation and gastronomy, the Four Seasons also boasts a host of other amenities that mark it out as top of its class. These include four pools including an adult only infinity pool, tennis and pickleball courts with a bird’s eye view of the resort, and full service spa offering a wide range of tailored treatments. The hotel is also only a short walk from Ko Olina Golf Club with its beautiful 18 hole course and breathtaking scenery.

Whether this is the best luxury resort hotel on the island comes down to personal preference, but if you’re looking for superior accommodation and world-class amenities, in a tranquil setting away from the hustle and bustle of Waikiki, the Four Seasons Resort O’ahu at Ko Olina is sure to tick all your boxes…