J. W. Marriott Ihilani Resort & Spa at Ko Olina Resort

Description:

• When the 640-acre Ko Olina Resort community opened, some 17 miles and 30 minutes west of Honolulu Airport (and worlds away from the tourist scene of Waikiki), critics wondered who would want to stay so far from the city. Lots of people, it turns out. Ihilani ("heavenly splendor") is nestled in a quiet location between the Pacific Ocean and the first of four man-made beach lagoons. Featuring a luxury spa and fitness center, plus tennis and one of Hawaii's premier golf courses, it's a haven of relaxation and well-being. The spa alone is reason enough to come here. Treatments include thalassic treatments, Swiss showers, Vichy showers, Roman pools, and various kinds of massages. You can even have a fitness-and-relaxation program custom-designed.

  Marriott took over management of the resort in late 1999, and it's hard to get a bad room in the 15-story building -- some 85% of the units enjoy lagoon or ocean views. Accommodations are luxuriously appointed and spacious (680 sq. ft.), and come with huge lanais outfitted with very comfortable, cushioned teak furniture. A state-of-the-art comfort-control-system panel operates the ceiling fans, air-conditioning, and lights. Luxurious marble bathrooms have deep soaking tubs, separate glass-enclosed showers, and many amenities. Other extras include a daily newspaper, transportation to Waikiki and Ala Moana Shopping Center, a 3-mile coastal fitness trail, and a stretch of four white-sand beaches for ocean activities. The championship 18-hole Ko Olina Golf Course was designed by Ted Robinson.

  The Ihilani's children's program puts all others to shame, offering year-round outdoor adventures and indoor learning activities for toddlers and teens alike. Other amenities for the kids include a Computer Learning Center, a 125-gallon fish tank, and an evening lounge for teen-themed parties.

  Facilities: 3 restaurants; 2 bars (w/nightly entertainment poolside); 2 outdoor pools; championship golf course; tennis club w/pro shop; world-class spa; watersports equipment rentals; excellent children's program; game room; concierge; activities desk; business center; shopping arcade; salon; room service; in-room massage; babysitting; same-day laundry service and dry cleaning.

• © Frommer's 2012

Awards:

Travel + Leisure Family

•  Family 50 2008

Travel + Leisure 500

•  Best Hotel 2009

Frommer's

•  Very Highly Recommended 2010

ForbesTraveler

•  Forbes Traveler 400 2008

Other features:

Children's club, marina, golf course, multiple restaurants, marine excursions (fee applies).