Normally when we travel, we stay at mid-range hotels. I actually prefer boutique hotels…unassuming, unique, and not too big. Although once in a while, we splurge on staying at a luxury hotel.

Last month, we decided to spend the weekend at the Four Seasons in Ko Olina, on the southwest point of the island of Oahu in Hawaii. This was not always a Four Seasons. We’ve stayed here a few times in the past, when it was a Marriott hotel known as Ihilani Resort. Back then, it was more of an upper mid-range hotel. Eventually, it went through major renovations and became the luxurious Four Seasons it is today.

There are two major resorts in Ko Olina – Aulani Disney resort and Four Seasons resort. Although they are right next to each other, these are two completely different worlds. While Aulani is a playground for families with small kids, the Four Seasons is a sanctuary for those seeking peace and quiet in the sun.

It truly is a sanctuary. Once you step onto a Four Seasons property, you know you get what you pay for, even if that is a lot. You may pay a really high nightly rate, but there’s no nickel and diming for other things. You get superb service from every staff member. The room is spotless and thoughtfully designed. These are things you notice when you pay attention to details.

Once at the pool, we were treated to that service. Not only was it a sanctuary, we were offered clean towels, sunscreen, chocolate covered strawberries, water, and ice cream. And remember, no nickel and diming. These were things brought to us at no extra cost, and no tipping expectations.

While staying at this Four Seasons, we tried two of the restaurants: Mina’s Fish House and Manalo Lounge. Both are truly fantastic, and I wouldn’t recommend one over the other. If the sky is clear, I highly recommend the Manalo Lounge right after sunset though….whether it be for dinner or just drinks. Sitting under the stars in the twilight hours with your loved one, is truly something else.

You might spot some celebrities, but that’s par for the course. Celebrities are there to enjoy themselves in private just as you are. They don’t make a big deal about it, and neither should you.

It truly is an amazing experience! I’ll let the additional photos below tell more…