The Kahala Hotel & Resort Review (The Most Luxurious Hotel in Oahu)

Six miles outside the hustle and bustle of Waikiki, nestled in a secluded cove with white sand beaches, is the Kahala Hotel & Resort. From the minute you arrive at this hidden luxury resort and are presented with a flower lei or for the men, a hand-painted necklace you know you are in for a one-of-a-kind experience.

Once the aroma of the lei envelops you and you walk into the open-air lobby of the Kahala Resort you’ll be welcomed with views of the Pacific Ocean, Diamond Head and Koko Head craters. If you had any lingering stress upon arriving it’s sure to have floated away by the time you reach the concierge for check-in.

Comfort Mixes with Luxury at the Kahala

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The Luxurious Kahala Hotel & Resort Review

Opened in 1964, the Kahala (Hawaiian for “amberjack”, a type of fish) is not merely a hotel, but an experience. There is an attentiveness that feels nurturing with no stuffiness.

What makes the Kahala Hotel & Resort different from other hotels on Oahu is there is little reason to leave. The location and ambiance are compelling factors in themselves, but add on a friendly staff, beautiful pool, fish ponds, lush gardens and palm trees you are truly in paradise.

The priceless artifacts, waterfalls, and meandering footpaths as well as a dolphin lagoon, beautiful beach, and full-service spa complete this perfect location.

Hawaii Packing List: If you are curious about what to pack for a Hawaii vacation, I have a free downloadable packing list!

Guest Rooms at the Kahala

Each guest room or suite at the Kahala Hotel & Resort is a haven unto itself. From spacious and regal suites to rooms looking onto the dolphin lagoon, all offer a unique experience. The Imperial Suite named for the Emperor and Empress of Japan, who were the first to stay there after the recent renovation is one of the most spectacular.

Rooms are a generous 550 square feet with plush beds and large spacious bathrooms. Suites all offer espresso machines, two bathrooms, and numerous extras such as daily breakfast and afternoon cocktail service with light pupus.

The Kahala is Family Friendly

It may surprise you about the Kahala Hotel and Resort, is that with all its luxurious touches, is actually very family-friendly. With a Keiki (kids) club available five days a week as well as a dolphin lagoon, swimming pool, activities from surfing, stand up paddling to canoeing, and spearfishing it’s a kid’s dream vacation.

Check Kahala Hotel Rates!

Plumeria Beach House for Breakfast

A perfect day at the Kahala Hotel and Resort starts with breakfast at the Plumeria Beach House. With views of the ocean from both the indoor and outdoor terraces, the view can’t get any better. While you can order from the menu, the buffet offers a delicious and fresh selection of island fruits with a focus on seasonal, locally grown items.

After breakfast wander the magnificent property, stop by the open-air lobby and enjoy some pineapple mint water. Each floor in the main building showcases Hawaiian artifacts. Take the elevator, stopping at each floor to see items such as a priceless late 19th-century quilt and 1930’s hula doll.

As you explore the property, it’s hard not to marvel at their spectacular views of Diamond Head and the Koko Head craters.

Next, enjoy some of the warm Hawaiian sun. Relax on a lounge chair poolside or at the private beach. Whether you prefer sun or shade, there is plenty of both; including beachside cabanas. Before long the staff will stop by to offer you a variety of island drinks and when lunch rolls around you can order that poolside as well.

Check Kahala Resort Reviews!

Swimming with Dolphins at the Kahala

A visit to the Kahala hotel wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the dolphins. Whether watching the beautiful animals play, jump and swim or meeting one of the five dolphins in the private lagoon, this is one of the many reasons the Kahala experience is truly unique.

There are numerous trainer-led programs that will bring you face to face with these gentle and smart animals such as the Kids’ Aquatic program, to the Trainer for a Day option.

After your dolphin encounter, if you want to extend your oceanic experience there are plenty of options including surfing and stand-up paddling. If you are more adventurous try an outrigger canoe surfing excursion where you will surf the waves in a 4-person canoe.

Kahala Spa

If you are in the mood to pamper yourself, the Kahala spa is a top-rated spa in Oahu. Indulge in a Hula Hands Massage, a Jet Setter Rejuvenation massage or an after-sun soother—a massage followed by a coconut bath.

Sunset & Dinner

Wherever the afternoon takes you, make sure to set aside time to watch the sunset. From your balcony or from the beach, a sunset in Hawaii is always magical. As the sun slips into the horizon, there is no reason to leave the property for dinner.

If you are in the mood for a fine dining experience Hoku’s is perfect (there is a dress code and children under 12 are not allowed).

For a more casual Kahala Resort dining experience try The Veranda—with seating inside as well as on the terrace and live music nightly from 7:30 to 11pm—this a perfect choice for families and those looking for a more relaxed environment.

The Kahala hotel is truly what you make of it. A romantic getaway, a family vacation or a girl’s spa retreat—the Kahala is a luxurious and one-of-a-kind experience.

The Kalaha Hotel & Resort is located at 5000 Kahala Av, Honolulu

Check out hotel reviews on TripAdvisor and find the best rates at Hotels.com

WHEN TO VISIT OAHU

There is no bad time to visit any of the Hawaiian Islands as far as finding beautiful weather. The temperature typically varies from 68°F to 87°F on the island of Oahu. You’ll find days are mostly warm or hot with cooler evenings.

Oahu is known for quick bursts of rain, but rarely will it ruin a day on the island. The best time to visit Oahu is from mid-April to early June or between September and mid-December. During these shoulder seasons, attractions are less crowded, festivals are plentiful and airfare and room rates are at their lowest.

If you enjoyed this article about The Best Free Hula Show and Where to find a Perfect Mai Tai in Oahu, you’ll also love Five Off-the-Beaten-Path Places on Hawaii’s Big Island.

Traveling To Oahu Soon? Here are a few tips:

How to get there: Oahu’s major airport is in Honolulu (airport code HNL). It’s by far Hawaii’s largest airport and hub. If you aren’t arriving by cruise ship, this is how you’ll arrive to Oahu.

Find cheap flights Check Trip Advisor for the best flight to Oahu.

Where to stay: There are many places to stay in Oahu Hawaii. There is a wide range of hotels, from budget to luxury. For a luxury hotel that won’t break the bank, I recommend The Kahala Hotel & Resort, which is currently the #1 hotel on Tripadvisor.

Hotels in Oahu: Check Trip Advisor reviews for The Kahala Hotel & Resort

What to pack: The weather is tropical on the Hawaiian Islands with lovely northeasterly trade winds. Dress is smart-casual on Oahu, but do bring a light sweater or wrap. Water shoes, sunscreen a sun hat and a great guide to Oahu are a must!

Oahu Hawaii Trip Essentials

6 Indispensable Items to Pack for an Oahu, Hawaii Vacation

Get the Fodor’s Oahu: with Honolulu, Waikiki & the North Shore (Full-color Travel Guide).
Bring a good quality mirrorless camera for getting those beautiful Oahu beach landscape shots. I use the Sony Alpha a6000 .
Summers are hot in Oahu, so make sure to bring Neutrogena Sunscreen, Broad Spectrum Spf 45
You will find mosquitos on Oahu, especially if you do some hiking, so bring mosquito repellent – I like the pre-moistened towelettes, which are very convenient for packing and carrying with you. They’re convenient and don’t leave a sticky or oily residue.
Don’t forget sunglasses for the beautiful sunny days. A.J. Morgan Unisex Sunglasses are a great choice and very affordable!
Water shoes are a great item to pack for any beach vacation. They take up little room when packing and great if you end up at a beach that is rocky or with very hot sand.

The Kahala Hotel & Resort Review (The Most Luxurious Hotel in Oahu)