May 7, 2021 | 4 Minutes

Your O‘ahu Itinerary

7 Ways to Explore O‘ahu

Home to Honolulu, O‘ahu offers picturesque beaches, dining, and entertainment amid a stunning Hawaiian landscape. If your holiday finds you at Marriott’s Ko Olina Beach Club, you’ll enjoy oceanfront dining, outdoor pools, and a turquoise lagoon — as well as access to some of the island’s best adventures.

CHASE THE SWELLS

Hale‘iwa is one of the world’s top surf destinations. Located on O‘ahu’s North Shore, it’s less than 50 kilometers from your resort. From November to February, watch in awe as professional surfers take on three-story waves at Banzai Pipeline (‘Ehukai Beach), Waimea Bay, and Sunset Beach.

DIP UNDER A WATERFALL

While you’re at the North Shore, take a stroll through the tropical and subtropical gardens in Waimea Valley. The paved trail leads to a 45-foot waterfall with a deep swimming hole (lifeguards are on-duty), so bring your bathing suit and reef walkers.

ORDER A SHRIMP PLATE

Find out what all the fuss is about in Kahuku, home to the famed shrimp trucks. They serve up plump local shrimp, slathered in tasty butter or garlic, with scoops of rice. Insider tip: Bring cash and prepare to wait, as the lines can get long — but it’s worth your time.

SAMPLE LOCAL CULTURE

Learn to play ancient games, paddle an outrigger canoe, and watch performers do a fearsome haka war dance at the Polynesian Cultural Center in Lā‘ie. This interactive, verdant destination explores the people and customs of Hawai‘i, Aotearoa (the Māori name for New Zealand), Fiji, Tahiti, Tonga, and Samoa. Don’t miss the daily canoe pageant on the lagoon. Planning tip: The Polynesian Cultural Center is typically closed on Sundays and Wednesdays.

SIP A SUNSET

When in Waikiki, stop by the Mai Tai Bar at The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort, Waikiki, for its signature cocktail. The beachside spot also serves modern variations of the classic mai tai and delicious pūpū (appetizers). If you’re looking for more adventures in mixology, head to the Kuhio Beach Grill inside the Waikiki Beach Marriott® Resort & Spa to sample an expansive offering of craft bourbons and whiskies.

SNORKEL WITH GIANT TURTLES

A snorkel cruise, leaving from the Ko Olina Marina next to the resort, brings you eye-to-eye with giant green sea turtles. The ocean around west O‘ahu is also home to Hawaiian spinner dolphins and — from December to March — visiting humpback whales. Sunset cruises and whale-watching tours also depart from Ko Olina Marina. As a Member, you can book snorkel tours and cruises via Marriott Vacation Club Activities Powered by PlacePass.

FIND PEACE ON A TRAIL

About an hour from the resort, the Ka‘ena Point Trail is tucked between the sea and breathtaking mountains. Laysan albatross (large, white seabirds) nest here, and you might even see a monk seal finding its zen on the beach — but remember to keep your distance, as both are protected species. Bring plenty of water and a hat, and in the winter, binoculars to whale watch right from the shore.

Members may use Points to reserve a studio, 1-, 2-, or 3-bedroom apartment at Marriott’s Ko Olina Beach Club. Contact Member Services to use Points to make a reservation at Marriott’s Ko Olina Beach Club.

Members may also use Points to reserve several hotels on Waikiki Beach on O‘ahu through the Explorer Collection.