The Most Romantic Places on Oahu

Description:

This property recently completed a massive $35-million renovation to revitalize its dark interior, which had existed for 30-years as an unrequited casino. The lobby is now open and airy with floor-to-ceiling windows framing the dramatic oceanview. The resort is spectacular: an hour's drive from Waikiki, but eons away in its country feeling. Presiding over 808 acres, Turtle Bay is loaded with activities and 5 miles of shoreline with secluded white-sand coves. It's located on Kalaeokaunu Point ("point of the altar"), where ancient Hawaiians built a small altar to the fish gods (the altar's remains are now at the Bishop Museum).

All rooms have ocean views (some have balconies) and now feature marble floors and countertops in the bathroom, and comfy bedding. Unfortunately, the improvements -- though significant -- don't live up to the expensive rack rates: For these prices you can stay in true luxury at the Halekulani in Waikiki, where you will get much better accommodations and much-improved service. If you can afford it, book the separate beach cottages. Positioned right on the ocean (the views alone are worth the price), the 42 bungalows boast hardwood floors, four-poster beds with feather comforters, and butler service, even their own private check-in and concierge.

The new Zen-like Spa Luana offers six treatment rooms, a meditation waiting area, and an outdoor workout area, plus a complete fitness center and a private elevator to the spa's reserved rooms on the second floor. The new restaurant, 21 Degrees North, is so fabulous people drive from all over the island to eat there.

Facilities: 4 restaurants; 2 bars (live entertainment Fri-Sat at the Bay Club Lounge, plus a poolside bar); 2 outdoor heated pools (w/80-ft. water slide); 36 holes of golf; 10 Plexipave tennis courts; spa w/fitness center; 2 Jacuzzis; watersports equipment rentals; concierge; activities desk; business center; salon; room service; babysitting; coin-op washer/dryers; laundry service; dry cleaning; stable w/horseback riding.

Description:

This spa offers a variety of treatments for the face and body, many of them utilizing Japanese or Hawaiian methods. About two dozen luxuriant treatments and services are offered, ranging from a relaxing poolside massage to a seaweed body wrap. If you've got plenty of time and money to burn, try the Kalo Package, a nearly five-hour process that includes a jet bath, a body wrap, a 50-minute massage and a deluxe facial. Women can end things with makeup application.

Description:

Formally known as "Mokoli'i" (or "Little Lizard"), Chinaman's Hat is a cone-shaped island that resembles the round hat worn by rural folk in China. With just a single but lovely beach on its far side, a visit to the Hat is certainly a rewarding experience for those willing to take the time to venture there. Use reef walkers to wade over at low tide, or take a kayak or raft at high tide from Kualoa's recreation area.

Description:

This much-lauded spa is located at the Outrigger Reef Hotel in downtown Waikiki. It offers a wide variety of European and Hawaiian skin, body, and wellness treatments. Certified massage therapists can provide everything from sports massages to shiatsu. Standard beauty treatments, such as manicures and facials, are also offered. The facility spans nearly 5,000 square feet, and guests of the hotel are sometimes offered discounts and specials.

Our Local Expert Says:

Much of this gorgeous beach has eroded over the years, so if you are looking for an area to spread out your towel and relax, use the beach access near Kuailima Drive.

Description:

'Lanikai' means "heavenly sea," and the name is fitting for this small neighborhood in Kailua. Lanikai Beach, which consistently ranks among the world's top beaches, is known for its clear, turquoise water and expanse of soft white sand. This is one of the island's best beaches for tranquil waters and swimming. The two small islands sitting offshore are the Mokuluas, and are protected bird sanctuaries. North Mokulua is open to the public during the day and accessible by kayak, making for a perfect day trip.