Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina Announced

Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina will replace what used to be the JW Marriott Ihilani Resort & Spa, an exciting new development and the very first Four Seasons resort on Oahu.

I'm thrilled, since in my view, Oahu is overdue for a wonderful new luxury resort. Most of my TravelSort clients visiting Hawaii, many of them on their honeymoon, an anniversary trip or a special family trip, book Four Seasons Maui at Wailea or Four Seasons Hualalai on the Big Island, both of them wonderful resorts.

But, as someone born and raised on Oahu who knows how much there is to see, do, taste and enjoy on Oahu, it's sad to me when visitors dismiss Oahu and Waikiki in the same breath. Waikiki is most definitely not reflective of most of Oahu, but it does happen to be where virtually all the best hotels and resort are. Well, until Four Seasons Oahu at Ko Olina opens towards the end of 2015!

Most of the details have yet to be announced, but here's what we know so far:

When Will Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina Open?

Four Seasons Oahu at Ko Olina will open Q4 2015; exact opening date to be determined. It makes sense they want to have the new resort open for the busy 2015 holiday season and festive period, given that it's peak season for Hawaii and it would be a shame to miss out on those bookings. Four Seasons Maui at Wailea and Four Seasons Hualalai are so popular that it's virtually impossible to book during the Christmas / New Year's period unless you've been a regular guest there in past years.

Where Is Ko Olina?

Ko Olina (which in Hawaiian means “place of joy”) is on the sunny west side of Oahu, 19 miles from Honolulu Airport, which is known for its beautiful white sand protected lagoons that are a favorite with visitors and local alike. The lagoons are man-made, but offer a great protected place for children to swim, for paddleboarding, and for snorkeling. The Ko Olina Marina means that dolphin and whale watching trips, sunset cruises, scuba diving and sailing are some of the activities on offer.

How Many Guest Rooms Will Four Seasons Oahu at Ko Olina Offer?

The resort will offer 365 guest rooms and suites, and also provide 180 private Four Seasons Residences.

Will It Be Possible to Book Four Seasons Oahu at Ko Olina with Four Seasons Preferred Partner Benefits?

Yes–TravelSort Clients will be able to book Four Seasons Oahu at Ko Olina with FSPP benefits. These are likely to mirror those offered by the other Hawaii Four Seasons resorts:

Daily full American breakfast for two people per bedroom, served through In-Room Dining or in the hotel restaurant (including buffets)
Food and beverage credit of USD100 once during stay
Upgrade of one category, based on availability at time of check-in (excluding signature suites and villas)
Complimentary Basic Internet (up to 2 devices) in all guest rooms, Complimentary Premium Internet (up to 4 devices) in all Suites

Who Are the Architects and Designers?

The architect and design team includes Toyo Ito (2013 winner of the prestigious Pritzker Architecture Prize); K.M. Cheng Architects, Group 70 International, Philpotts Interiors, and SWA Group.