Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina

We'd definitely return, though I hope the hotel raises its game a bit next time. I rate this Four Seasons 9/10. In my experience, it was good but didn't quite meet the brand's usual standard. The main areas felt dated and less upscale than at other Four Seasons properties. Our oceanfront studio suite was excellent: spacious, quiet, and with amazing views. Housekeeping was great. The adult pool was the best of the pools. Service was mixed for a Four Seasons. The entrance staff were usually friendly, and poolside service was great on two of our three days. The omelette cook at the breakfast buffet seemed like he hadn't had his coffee yet. The restaurants were all amazing, with food and service up to Four Seasons standards. The location gives easy access to beaches and four lagoons that are easy to swim in, and the “secret” beach is nearby. The airport drive isn't bad. One location drawback is the Disney hotel next door. It usually doesn't matter, but sometimes its concerts are loud enough to hear clearly from the pools. Whether that bothers you is up to you.

The beach and lagoon were calm and fun for the kids, the cleaning staff did a great job every day, and my daughter loved the big kids club with its crafts and activities. Still, this Four Seasons Honolulu did not feel up to Four Seasons standards. The rooms were basic, pool service was poor, and the hotel shows its past as a JW Marriott. There wasn't a cocktail bar for after dinner. We were there during the Super Bowl, and the hotel had a poor setup in an upstairs bar that wasn't operating, with one TV for everyone. It seemed like they could have planned something better. The restaurant food wasn't great either. We paid $120 USD for two cheese quesadillas through room service, and they were burned. If I could redo the trip, I'd visit the Four Seasons on Kona Island first, then go to Maui, and skip Honolulu. If you're from the USA, Honolulu may not feel like a tropical vacation unless you go to the north shore. We stayed at the Ritz North Shore. It was very nice but isolated from everything, though its service and rooms were better. I'd skip Four Seasons Honolulu if you're expecting that Four Seasons luxury feel.

The staff made us feel like VIPs from start to finish. Check-in and check-out, the concierge, bell staff, valet, restaurant and beach teams, and housekeeping were all exceptional. Everyone seemed happy to be there, and we were met with smiles throughout. One evening, traveling with our two-year-old, we arrived at a restaurant about 15 minutes before closing. They welcomed us without hesitation and gave us attentive, unrushed service. Our partial ocean view room had a walk-out balcony with an amazing view. We could hear the ocean from the room, which added to the relaxed atmosphere. The room was excellent, a little dated but well maintained and suited to the beach resort style. The bathroom was spacious, with double sinks, a separate shower, and a bathtub. Housekeeping even noticed the balcony screen door had slipped off track and arranged a repair without us asking. The resort's food was consistently high quality, and service was prompt in the room, restaurants, by the pool, and on the beach. Beach chairs and umbrellas were included, which was a nice touch. We'll definitely be back. Thank you to the Four Seasons team!

Our room wasn't ready as early as expected, but the hotel handled it well and gave us a credit of around $100, which we really appreciated. More than that, the staff were kind and professional throughout, with truly top-tier service. This was our first stop on our Hawaii holiday, and it turned out to be the best. The rooms were spacious, beautiful, and impeccably clean. The property and infrastructure felt luxurious without being overwhelming, and everything was well maintained. Both pool areas were relaxing and well organized, never chaotic. I especially loved the adults-only pool. Food throughout the resort was consistently delicious, and service was warm and attentive wherever we went. Everything felt seamless and thoughtfully handled. It was a 10/10 stay. When I return to Oahu, as I definitely plan to, I'd stay here again. Highly recommended.