Jessica & Ryan
Things To Do
Visit the Beaches
Ko Olina has four beautiful lagoons that offer clear waters and soft sand, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. One of the things that make Ko Olina so special is its four man-made lagoons. The waves can be rough and unpredictable near Ko Olina, but the lagoons keep swimmers totally protected. There could be huge waves just outside the lagoon but the water in the lagoon itself will be flat and calm. Just like every beach in Hawaii, the Ko Olina lagoons are public. However, parking is limited so arrive early and don’t sit on the resort beach chairs. The hotel attendants check semi-regularly and they will ask you to move if you don’t have a resort wristband.
Go on a Snorkel or Dolphin/Whale Watching Tour
Take a boat tour to see dolphins in their natural habitat. The dolphin tours in Ko Olina are offered by boat tour companies operating in the area. The tour typically takes place in the waters near the Ko Olina resort, where dolphins are frequently spotted. The exact location of the tour can vary depending on the company and the time of year, as dolphins may migrate to different areas. It is best to check with local tour operators or the tourist information center in Ko Olina for more information on the specific locations and times of dolphin tours.
Play Golf
Ko Olina has two world-class golf courses. Both courses offer golf instruction, rental clubs, and other amenities, making them popular choices for golfers visiting the area. • Ko Olina Golf Club: This 18-hole, par-72 championship golf course was designed by Ted Robinson and features stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. • Kapolei Golf Course: This 18-hole, par-72 course is located just a short drive from Ko Olina and offers a challenging yet fun golf experience.
Spa Day
Treat yourself to a spa day at one of the many luxury resort spas in the area.
Sunset Sailing
Enjoy the beautiful Hawaiian sunsets while sailing on a catamaran. These cruses offer a high likelihood of seeing marine life.
Go Fishing
Ko Olina offers deep-sea fishing tours and charter services. Fishing is a popular activity in Ko Olina and there are several options for those looking to go fishing. Charters typically depart from the Ko Olina marina and target a variety of species including Mahi Mahi, Marlin, Tuna, and Ono. It is important to note that fishing in Hawaii is regulated and and restrictions may be in place. Before fishing in Ko Olina, it is advisable to check the regulations and obtain the necessary permits. Local fishing outfitters and tour operators can provide additional information and assistance.
Shop and Dine
The Ko Olina resort area offers a variety of shopping and dining options, including local Hawaiian cuisine. Within the Ko Olina grounds, you have a number of food choices, from an island market to fine dining. A number of food options are located at Ko Olina Station, the shopping center across the street from the Four Seasons and Disney Aulani. You’ll also find restaurants within each of the hotels. If you’re looking to have some meals away from a restaurant, this shop is the spot. The Island Country Market is an upscale ABC Store and from the street, it looks like it might not offer much in the way of food. Don’t let it fool you. Walk back to the deli section and you’ll find plenty of salad, sandwiches, and entrees offered at very reasonable prices. It’s located in Ko Olina station just outside the Coconut Plantation gates. If you need groceries or a quick meal and don’t feel like driving to Kapolei, this is the spot.
Attend a Luau
The Paradise Cove luau is located next to the Four Seasons resort, Paradise Cover offers a beautiful location to eat, be entertained and learn about Hawaiian history. The Disney Aulani also offers its own luau, Ka Wa‘a, at the Aulani resort. On Tuesday nights you’ll also have the opportunity to attend the Fia-Fia Polynesian Dinner Show at the Marriott.
East Side
Kailua Town: This charming beach town is located about a 30-minute drive from Ko Olina and offers a variety of unique boutiques, gift shops, and local artisan shops. Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden: Located in Kaneohe the Ho’omaluhia botanical gardens consist of 400 acres of tropical plants along with a man-made freshwater lake, hiking trails and camping. The Kaneohe Sandbar: A beautiful sandbar only accessible by water is excellent for snorkeling, swimming and hanging out. You can rent kayaks at Kamaaina kayaks to paddle out. Visit the Polynesian Cultural Center: The Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC) is located in Laie, on the northeastern coast of Oahu. It is approximately a 30-minute drive from Ko Olina. The PCC is a 42-acre park that features exhibits and interactive demonstrations showcasing the cultures of Polynesia, including Hawaii, Samoa, Tonga, Tahiti, the Marquesas, and Fiji.
North Shore
A 45 min drive from Ko Olina depending on traffic. Popular spots along Kamehameha Highway include Haleiwa Town (shopping), Laniakea Beach (see turtles), Waimea Bay (nice beach with jumping rock), Shark’s Cove (Jess' favorite freedive spot), Banzai Pipeline (watch pro surfers), and Sunset Beach (watch great surf). Essentially, if you take a road trip down this highway, you’ll pass all of the most famous locations on the North Shore. Moreover, this scenic road continues past the North Shore onto Oahu’s windward side.
South Shore (Honolulu/Waikiki)
A 40 min drive from Ko Olina. Waikiki is very popular for tourism and has plenty of activities such as hiking, swimming, beach, golfing, sailing, snorkeling and diving. Can't really go wrong with the south shore.