Iconic Itineraries Hawaii

Luxury on the Islands of Hawaii

 It’s easy to see why Hawaii has become synonymous with paradise. Luxury resorts, fine dining, and world-class shopping have made Hawaii a premier destination for indulgence, relaxation and adventure.

 We’ve narrowed down the must-see vacation stops along with the best resorts and places to stay. Experience the utmost in Hawaiian luxury at these top destinations and discover the islands of Aloha and the treasures that make them unlike any other on earth.

Hawaii, Big IslandFrom molten magma flowing from Hawaiian volcanoes to green rain forests, to the black sands of Punaluu Beach, the island of Hawaii, known as the Big Island, is an exuberant expression of nature. The dramatic size and scope of Big Island creates an endless amount of environments and activities to engage in. This Hawaiian vacation spot is sure to greet travelers with beauty, nature and a whole lot of adventure.

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai

www.fourseasons.com/hualalai/

 

Stay:

Relax and feel the spirit of the Kona Coast as you enjoy this legendary island paradise. With over 250 expansive guest rooms, villas and suites, this resort offers complete luxury and Hawaiian flare. Sophisticated indoor-outdoor living is inspired by Hawaii’s golden age, enhanced with local Hawaiian art. Pick from elegant guest rooms, residential-style suites and signature villas where you’ll enjoy sophisticated indoor-outdoor living finished with incomparable, highly personalized service.

Spa:

The Hualalai Spa gives guests a one-of-a-kind experience at The Apothecary. Choose among Hawaii’s many natural elements to personally create your spa treatment. Ingredients such as black lava salt, hibiscus and crushed macadamia nuts, mixed along with your preferred scented oil, are mixed together to create a personalized spa treatment just for you.

The spa integrates tropical gardens with cool interior spaces and feels distinctly Hawaiian. Enjoy relaxing by a quiet stream in the open-air Waiea (Water of Life) garden. Or savour the lap pool, whirlpools, saunas, steam rooms and cold plunges, all set amidst lush greenery. Body treatments and massages can be enjoyed indoors or outdoors and you can extend your spa trip with a visit to the sports club, which offers workout sessions with the newest fitness equipment.

Dine:

Choose from three restaurants and two ocean-side lounges at Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, with creative menus that reflect the changing of the seasons and the bounty of Hawaii’s farms and coasts.

The Beach Tree offers al fresco dining by day and a lively lounge scene by night. ‘Ulu Ocean Grill features ingredients fresh from the ocean and local farms on Hawaii’s most beautiful setting alongside the surf and under the stars. Experience authentic Hawaiian dining at ‘ULU Ocean Grill + Sushi Lounge, an indoor-outdoor space featuring an ocean-view bar.

Play:

Enjoy a round of golf at Hualalai’s seaside golf course. The 18-hole Jack Nicklaus signature course has been crafted with extreme sensitivity to the land and winds over 7,100 yards. The carefully groomed course starts in a lush kipuka (oasis) and stretches across green fairways contoured against black lava.

The Fairmont Orchid

www.fairmont.com/orchid-hawaii

 

Stay:

Discover a luxurious Hawaii resort on the Kohala Coast inspired by culture, well-being and genuine Aloha. The 32-acre luxury oceanfront resort offers a sugar-white sandy lagoon and aquamarine waters, a year-round children’s program, spa, golf, tennis and six restaurants to enjoy. 540 guest rooms and suites echo the warmth and serenity of Hawaii island and each offer a private lanai with a view of the resort’s gardens, partial angled ocean view or oceanfront.

The Fairmont Orchid is located in the perfect spot for day trips and Hawaiian adventures, while also offering a luxurious stay.

 

Spa:

Enjoy Hawaiian inspired treatments and massages while unwinding at the Spa Without Walls. The Fairmont Orchid’s award-winning spa features eight private outdoor waterfall hale, six oceanside hale, four indoor treatments and steam rooms. Rejuvenate in paradise with the choice of indoor or outdoor settings.

Try the All’l Experience, which includes a 50-minute Hawaiian Lomilomi massage and foot wrap, followed by a compress made with Hawaiian herbs, to encourage physical and mental relaxation. The Kahinu body treatment follows, using warm coconut oil slowly poured over the hair and scalp, followed by cleansing herbs. Topping off this Polynesian pleasure is a scalp, neck, shoulder, hand and foot massage with essences of sandalwood, frankincense and myrrh.

 

Dine:

Enjoy the Kohala Coast sunset, delicious offerings and romantic fine dining at the Fairmont Orchid. At the AAA Four Diamond award-winning Brown’s Beach House, guests can taste cuisine made with fresh Hawaiian ingredients. Dip your toes in the sand for a more casual dining experience at Hale Kai Restaurant.  The sushi at Norio’s Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Bar is the best on the island, and the sumptuous three-day rotating breakfast buffet at Orchid Court will start your day off right. After enjoying a meal at one of our restaurants, end the day with a tropical libation, beautiful Kohala Coast sunsets and live music at Luana Lounge.

Hilton Waikoloa Village

www.hiltonwaikoloavillage.com

Stay:

Perfect for families, groups and couples, experience an oceanfront playground set on the Kohala Coast of Hawaii at the Hilton Waikoloa Village. Enjoy a choice of modern rooms and suites set across three low-rise towers at Hilton Waikoloa Village, each with easy access to the resort attractions accessible by tram and canal boat transportation.

Rooms boast scenic views along with a private lanai and each tower includes personalized services along with modern, chic decor. Beach rentals, whale watching, glass-bottom boat tours, and cocktail sunset cruises are among the many activities to choose from when you stay at the Hilton Hawaiian Village.

Spa:

Soothing treatments and rejuvenation are guaranteed at the Kohala Spa at Waikola Village, where pure island ingredients are mixed with modern techniques for an unforgettable relaxation experience. At the 25,000-square-foot spa, there is an exclusive selection of facials, scrubs, wraps, massages and even hydrotherapy treatments. Spa guests can relax in the garden or lounge area or workout in the fitness center with state-of-the-art classes including Pilates and meditation programs.

 

Dine:

Enjoy an exciting culinary adventure in our wide choice of dining outlets, with fresh, local ingredients, at Hilton Waikoloa Village. Exotic flavors meet Hawaiian flare in all of the resort’s restaurants, where dining options range from romantic oceanfront dining to casual poolside snacks. Savor fresh steaks and local, island seafood at the Kamuela Provision Company, or even travel by canal boats to enjoy Mexican cuisine at the Boat Landing Cantina. Wake up to a Big Island style breakfast in a relaxed ambience with huge buffets and a la carte options. Guests love to cool off after a day in the sun with refreshing cocktails at the poolside bar.  

Lanai

Lanai was once one of the world’s largest pineapple plantations. Today, with only about 3,000 residents, Lanai remains the Hawai’i of yesterday: unspoiled, unhurried, and unequaled. Only nine miles from Maui, Lanai is home to serenity and intimacy. Visitors can indulge in first-class amenities while also being able to take a peaceful stroll through the plantation town of Lanai City, explore Hawaii’s most pristine beaches, or simply be pampered in a world-class spa.  For adventure seekers, experience an unmatched diversity of activities: championship golf, horseback riding, hiking and off-road adventures.

Four Seasons Resort Lanai

www.fourseasons.com/lanai/

 

Stay:

Among the best resorts in Hawaii, Four Seasons Resort Lanai is located on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean and Hulopo’e Bay, a marine sanctuary that’s a playground to spinner dolphins and humpback whales. The luxury Resort features a main building and nine separate two-storey buildings housing 213 guest rooms, including 45 suites. Enhancing the grounds are five lush, botanical gardens, featuring cascading waterfalls and serene koi ponds.

 

Spa:

The Spa at Four Seasons Resort Lanai offers a full range of spa and salon services inspired by the essence of Hawaii combined with innovative products and techniques. No two experiences are alike at Hawanawana Spa at Four Seasons Resort Lanai, where every treatment is tailored to your individual desires and concerns. Inspired by the healing powers of the sea, our full range of Spa and Salon services features locally inspired ingredients and techniques.

If you’re looking to make positive changes in your lifestyle, fitness and yoga instructors offer a variety of indoor and outdoor classes including yoga, Pilates, spin, meditation, healthy lifestyle lectures and cardio inspired workouts. 

 

Dining:

From casual poolside American flavours, Hawaiian steak and seafood to innovative Japanese cuisine – all made using the freshest quality local and imported ingredients – an array of dining options are available for guests on Lanai.

The Resort is proud to support over 100 local farmers and fishers, including Alberta’s Farm on Lanai, and approximately 65 percent of the menu items come from the Hawaiian Islands.  To complement the cuisine, Four Seasons Resort Lanai wine program offers over 500 labels, with emphasis on wines from California, France and Italy as well as a selection of fine wines by the glass via the Coravin system. 

Set cliff side overlooking a protected marine preserve, NOBU Lanai offers sweeping panoramic views and innovative Japanese cuisine. Perched above Hulopoʻe Bay, Los Angeles’ Malibu Farm, a favorite of local residents, surfers and A-list celebrities alike, features the freshest local and organic ingredients for delicious brunch and lunch offerings.

With an emphasis on local ingredients, One Forty showcases prime and wagyu beef from Snake River Farms, and local Hawaiian catch, prepared to perfection. Traditional side dishes complement main courses, while an accomplished wine list features a variety of fine labels.

Play:

High above the crashing surf of Hulopo’e Bay, the signature Jack Nicklaus Manele Golf Course has a reputation for excellence in design and playability.  Built on lava outcroppings, the course features three holes on cliffs which use the Pacific Ocean as a water hazard.  The five-tee concept challenges the best golfers – tee shots over natural gorges and ravines must be precise.

This dramatic, unspoiled natural terrain is a stunning backdrop, and every hole offers majestic ocean views, overlooking Maui and Kaho’olawe.  During the winter, you may even catch spectacular sightings of whales, right from the fairways.

How to Get There

Expeditions Ferry; www.go-lanai.com

For over 27 years, EXPEDITIONS has been providing the most reliable, affordable transportation between the islands of Maui and Lanai. Local residents and visitors alike enjoy their short trip across the Auau Channel (Approximately One Hour) aboard Expeditions fast, United States Coast Guard certified vessels. Aboard Expeditions you’ll enjoy spectacular views of Maui County, including the islands of Maui, Lanai, Molokai and Kahoolawe. On a clear day you may even see the Big Island of Hawaii, and during the season (January – April) you’ll marvel at the record number of Humpback whales we share the ocean with during our voyage.

Expeditions will also help you plan your day or overnight stay on Lanai, offering you an exclusive variety of “Explore Lanai” Packages including jeep rentals, horseback riding, sporting clays, guided 4×4 trekker tours and more!

Maui

From postcard-perfect beaches, volcanic landscapes, and tropical forests and gardens, Maui just might be the closest thing to paradise we’ve ever seen. Known as the “Valley Isle,” Maui is home to local favorites that have been around for generations. Stretch out on golden sands or hit the surf for unforgettable snorkeling session. A nature lover’s dream with pristine beaches, whale watching, pools, waterfalls and more, Maui is a must-visit destination.

 

 Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua

www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/kapalua-maui

Stay:

On the western edge of Maui, Ritz-Carlton Kapalua Resort is a surrounded by tropical bays and sandy beaches. Translated from an ancient Hawaiian language to mean “arms embracing the sea,” Kapalua enfolds guests into its captivating surroundings, much as it did when its first inhabitants came upon Maui’s pristine Pacific shores centuries ago. Today, The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua welcomes you to a secluded luxury paradise steeped in rich cultural tradition and a warm Aloha spirit.

The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua is nestled within the pristine 22,000-acre Kapalua Resort, giving guests exclusive access to amenities and activities hosted within the hotel. Offering one and two bedroom Residences, suites and guest rooms, the beauty of the tropical surroundings is celebrated in all rooms with thoughtful design and décor tempting one to forgo exploration for welcome seclusion.

 

Spa:

The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Kapalua stays true to the island’s ancient Hawaiian treatments with potent plants, flowers, fruits and herbs known to heal and soothe. Unwind with oils created from fresh herbs harvested right from the resort’s on-site garden, or even indulge in the healing powers of Waihua — known as Hawaiian water that is pure in every sense. This grand spa offers private outdoor spaces, as well as spacious or private cabanas.

Dine:

Offering a collection of six restaurants, each featuring a unique cuisine, the dining selections at The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua reflect Maui’s island culture and natural culinary gifts – from the freshest seafood to just-picked tropical produce. For nightly entertainment, head out to the Alaloa Lounge for some cocktails and lively music. The property also features a Club Level with access to a luxurious lounge offering complimentary food and beverage presentations throughout the day.

 

Play:

Set amid a 22,000-acre historic pineapple plantation, Kapalua’s Plantation Course and Bay Course offer two 18-hole golf experiences, each with distinct character, challenges and incredible views. An Arnold Palmer and Franis Duane collaboration, Kapalua’s Bay Course offers ocean views on 16 of 18 holes and each course offers distance characters and challenges. If you’d like to get a little practice in before you hit the green, Kapalua Golf Academy, Hawaii’s most complete state-of-the-art golf schools, offers award-winning courses, guaranteeing you success on the green. Whether you are a pro or just beginning, Kapalua’s golf course will leave you feeling like a winner!

Oahu

 If you are craving diversity and rich culture, the Hawaiian island of Oahu is the place for you! With the nickname of “The Gathering Place,” Oahu certainly lives up to its name with diverse peoples and a fusion of east and western Hawaiian cultures. There are so many sights to explore with Oahu’s mix of modern and ancient flare. Take a stroll through the metropolitan cityscapes of Honolulu or even discover the historic architecture of the royal Iolani Palace. In Oahu, you are sure to find variety at every turn!

 Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina

www.fourseasons.com/oahu/

 

Stay:

Full of energy and tropical beauty, the Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina promises the elements needed to beat the winter blues. Experience lavish, Hawaiian living with panoramic ocean views from one of the Resort’s luxury guest rooms and suites. Each room welcomes guests with breathtaking views of crystal-blue waters and sandy beaches, also splashed with Hawaiian style inspired by the island’s very own natural sites. The well-connected concierge team makes guests feel at home, providing them with insight to the island’s best features.

Spa:

Known for its ancient Hawaiian healing traditions, the Naupaka Spa & Wellness Centre is sure to help guests unwind and relax. Located at Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina, the four-level spa includes indoor and outdoor treatment rooms. The spa is authentic to its location, using native plants and salts, indigenous art forms and hand-carved designs throughout the entirety of the spa. The center redefines luxury with its innovative indigenous practices, making sure each guest feels relaxation with a connection to the island itself.

Dining:

The resort’s signature restaurants serve up the freshest seafood, modern Italian cuisine and Pan-Asian specialties from around globe. For casual moments, enjoy the relaxing lounge, café and beach bar – welcoming with the friendly, thoughtful service of Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina.

Fish House, Oahu’s premier line-to-table seafood restaurant, is set on the edge of the Resort’s white sand beach, inviting a lively, casual approach to dining where the focus is on fresh island catch. Capri-meets-Oahu at Noe, offering Southern Italy’s characteristic light flavours shape dishes inspired by local seafood, top quality meats and homemade pastas accompanied by Italian wines – many never before available in Hawaii.

Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort

www.outriggerwaikikihotel.com

 

Stay:

If you are looking for sun, surf and sand, Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort is the vacation spot for you. The Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort offers inviting rooms and suites with the choice of city or ocean views all with deluxe amenities. Located on the world-famous Waikiki Beach, a vibrant center of activity, the resort is home to sparkling sands and crystal-blue waters. From surfing Waikiki beach, paddle boarding with the silhouette of Diamond Head in the background or even trying an outrigger canoe ride, your stay is guaranteed to be filled with fun-filled adventures.

 

Spa:

After a day in the surf, a visit to Infinity Massage – A Waikiki Beach Resort Spa will help you to relax and unwind. Offering Hawaiian lomi lomi massage and other relaxing wellness and rejuvenation treatments, the spa also offers herbal yoga massages and myofascial release.

Want to get your Zen on? Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort provides complimentary oceanfront yoga on Saturday mornings for those who want to relax while also getting a workout in.

Dine:

Oahu’s dining and music scene is known as a celebration of cultural diversity throughout the island. The Outrigger has exceptional restaurants right on the beach with amazing island views and nightly entertainment. Dine at Duke’s Waikiki Restaurant, where the fish is fresh, steaks are juicy and the atmosphere lively and fun. Delight in contemporary island cuisine and a magnificent view of Diamond Head all overlooking Waikiki Beach at Hula Grill Waikiki and Chuck’s Steak House, all located at the Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort.

 

Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort

www.outriggerreef-onthebeach.com

Stay:

City meets the sea at the Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort, offering stunning ocean views from an amazing location on Waikiki Beach. Just minutes away from high-fashion shops and less than a mile from Honolulu Zoo and Waikiki Aquarium, the resort is a perfect vacation spot for couples and families.

Offering inviting rooms and suites with the choice of city, garden or ocean views, this beachfront property is the perfect location to savor spectacular sunsets and cool ocean breezes.

 

Spa:

Rejuvenate your body and spirit at La’akea Spa Hawaii. With native-island and traditional spa therapies, the spa is dedicated to providing the most relaxing experience possible to guests. Hydrate your skin after a day in the Hawaiian sunshine with a soothing body wrap or unwind with a hot lava rock massage. You can even get your feet sandal-ready with a luxurious pedicure. No matter which treatment you choose, you will walk out feeling more balanced and full of energy.

Dine:

Savor the delicious flavors of Hawaii through Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort’s bold dining scene. Dine like a local with views of Diamond Head and the oceanfront as a backdrop at Ocean House Restaurant and Shore Bird Restaurant & Beach Bar. If you’re one for music, gather at Kani Ka Pila Grille for some contemporary and traditional Hawaiian tunes. Whether you want a romantic meal or a casual dining experience, this resort will leave you with a true sense of Hawaiian cuisine.

Voyager 47 Club:

Directly overlooking iconic Waikiki Beach, Voyager 47, Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort’s premium club lounge, provides guests with elevated amenities and services. The lounge is a great place to relax and energize before the start of your day in paradise. Guests can include access to the club in their booking, which also offers morning coffee and breakfast as well as local craft beer and artisan appetizers at sunset.

Dining on Oahu

Tommy Bahamas:

www.tommybahama.com/restaurants/waikiki

In the heart of Waikiki is the famous Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Bar. This popular dining spot features a second-story dining room, along with a third-story rooftop bar. With a fire pit and beach-inspired cocktail area, visitors step into a trendy, Hawaiian oasis. Sip on a cold martini or even try Tommy Bahama’s signature Rum Babalu cocktail! Filled with Chefs inspired by the islands of Hawaii, Tommy Bahamas serves up a variety of cuisines, ranging from classic dishes to classical Hawaiian items made with locally-sourced produce and seafood. Whether with a group or simply stopping by for a refreshing drink, Tommy Bahamas has everything needed to provide guests with a once in a lifetime Hawaiian dining experience.

Nanzan Girogiro

www.guiloguilo.com

One of Honolulu’s hidden gems, Nanzan Giro Giro is one you won’t want to skip. Tucked away on Pensacola Street, this unique restaurant is known for its contemporary kaiseki-style menu. The cooking style is focused on the traditional Japan “Kuzushi Kaiseki” while using local Hawaiian ingredients. With a set, monthly-changing menu, each visit brings new surprises.

For $50, seven courses are miraculously presented and prepared just for you with one-of-a-kind ceramic serving dishes — created by the artist Nanzan. With such an artful presentation, it’ll be hard not to take that food selfie for Instagram. Nanzan Giro Giro offers a unique experience while also giving you a luxurious feast for your senses.

Written by Samantha Borgman