More than 40 golf courses grace the island of Oahu, where they run the gamut from extraordinary championship courses to public and municipal courses. One of the most frequented municipal courses in the United States, the Ala Wai Golf Course in Waikiki plays host to 500 rounds of golf per day. More exclusive golfing adventures can be found island-wide, including the prestigious Turtle Bay Resort Golf Course, which boasts 36 holes. When in Waikiki, experience Hawaiian-style luxury at resort hotels fronting the famed sand beach below Diamond Head.
Moana Surfrider
Considered one of the great "grande dame" hotels of Waikiki, the Moana Surfrider presents traditional elegance at every turn, from the original colonial porte-cochere at the entry to the high ceilings with plaster details and ornate moldings. Built in 1901, the historic hotel features elegant furnishings, fine artwork, exquisite décor and sterling hospitality.
Moana Surfrider Hotel
2365 Kalakaua Ave.
Honolulu, HI 96815
(808) 922-3111
moana-surfrider.com
Halekulani in Waikiki
Located near the newly built Trump enterprise in the Lewer's Street area, the famed Halekulani occupies one of the most coveted sections of sandy beach in Waikiki. One of the world's great destination hotels, this luxury 453-room resort includes three cocktail lounges with stunning ocean views, a celebrated spa, state-of-the-art fitness room and business center. The hotel's landmark swimming pool is a sight to behold at night when the glow of tiki torches illuminates the premises. Serving up Neoclassic French offerings, La Mer restaurant boasts a AAA Five Diamond Award rating, as evidenced by its stellar cuisine and romantic setting.
Halekulani
2199 Kalia Rd.
Honolulu, HI 96815
(808) 923-2311
halekulani.com
Royal Hawaiian Hotel
Known as the Pink Palace of the Pacific, the iconic Royal Hawaiian Hotel is one of the most recognized landmarks in Waikiki, second only to Diamond Head. The pink stucco resort features an opulent lobby showcasing elegant furnishings, antiques and prized artworks. Built in 1927, the hotel pays homage to the history of Hawaii while providing exceptional amenities including first-rate dining destinations, a freshwater swimming pool and the popular Mai Tai Bar, located on the beach below the hotel.
Royal Hawaiian Hotel
2259 Kalakaua Ave.
Honolulu, HI 96815
(808) 923-7311
royal-hawaiian.com
About The Author
Karen Sprinkles has been a freelance writer since 1988. She's currently the managing editor of a luxury home magazine and has written for regional newspapers and magazines. Sprinkles received the Award of Excellence from the Hawaii Book Publishers Association for "The Hawaii Home Book," which reached No. 1 on the Hawaii bestsellers list. She earned a bachelor's degree in English from the University of California.
