I've stayed at more than twelve hotels in Hawaii—here are four reasons this one is my favorite.

      Still in diapers, on a strict two-naps-a-day schedule, and with only about an inch of hair on my head, I first traveled to Hawaii as a toddler. My parents dressed me in a floral bikini top and a grass hula skirt for the occasion. (Yes, I have photographic evidence.) Looking back, maybe this is where my passion for themed dressing began? In any event, Hawaii captivated me. I have returned more than a dozen times over the past thirty years, staying at various resorts, hotels, condos, and Airbnbs across Maui, Kauai, and Oahu. Each place has had its advantages and drawbacks, so I haven't remained loyal to any one property—until now. After spending three nights at the Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina, you'll be hard-pressed to convince me to stay elsewhere. As Parker Posey's character in The White Lotus says, "I just don't think, at this age, I'm meant to live an uncomfortable life." Continue reading for my candid review of the resort’s grounds, accommodations, activities, and dining.

      1. The Property

      Here are some fun facts by the numbers. Situated a 30-minute drive from Honolulu airport, the resort features six restaurants and bars, four pools, two gift shops, four pickleball courts, a 35,000-square-foot spa, and one wedding chapel, among other amenities. While these figures are indeed impressive on paper, what truly resonates is the intangible experience: the tranquility of the lagoon’s water, the sound of the ocean from your bed, and the lush greenery of the meticulously maintained landscaping.

      As shown in my video in the lower right-hand corner, the beach is wonderfully calm, protected by rock barriers that create a serene lagoon right in front of the hotel. This is something I have learned never to take for granted in Hawaii. Just because a hotel is beachfront doesn’t guarantee it’s suitable for swimming! For example, at one hotel in Kauai, I couldn’t swim for two minutes without worrying about the next set of strong waves crashing in, ready to sweep me—and my bikini top—away.

      Of the four pools, one is designated for adults only (shown in the top right) and includes its own swim-up bar. Don't miss the mai tai! Another pool is conveniently located within the spa and wellness center, allowing you to enjoy a refreshing dip after your massage and sauna session. The other two pools are popular with families and guests of all ages.

      2. The Accommodations

      As an introvert, nothing pleases me more than a nice balcony where I can enjoy a beautiful view from the comfort of my hotel room. You mean I can watch the sunset without being asked to take photos of a couple on their honeymoon? Sounds great to me! (Congratulations, by the way.) Speaking of sunsets, my room at the Four Seasons Oahu had such a stunning view that it felt like the sky was putting on a colorful display just for me.

      My room had another feature I appreciate: a separate bathtub and shower. I enjoyed rinsing off my sandy feet, salty hair, and chlorine-filled swimsuit in the shower while keeping the bathtub pristine for my nightly relaxation ritual. (Naturally, after which I wrapped myself in a luxuriously plush Four Seasons robe.) The exquisite custom toiletries featured a delightful blend of citrus and pikake (a flower from the jasmine family).

      3. The Activities

      I understand if you visit Oahu and choose to spend all day lounging on the beach. (If so, I highly recommend reading The Wedding People, as I did.) However, if you’d prefer to stay a bit more active, there are plenty of options at this resort. For starters, my dad and I were fortunate to participate in the celestial canoe experience. Before we set off from the shore in our double-hull canoe, our guide (shown in the top left) lit a torch and sounded a conch shell (pū in Hawaiian) to mark the beginning of our adventure. As we paddled through the lagoon and out into the ocean, he shared how ancient Hawaiians used the stars for navigation. For both my dad and I, this was the highlight of our stay, combining an enjoyable water activity with a touch of cultural insight.

      Instead of joining a yoga class or tennis lessons, both of which are available, I opted for something less strenuous and more aligned with my preferences: a sound bath (top right). Conducted in the hotel’s chapel and led by Pi'iali'i Lawson, who comes from a long line of Native Hawaiian healers, this calming experience made my stress vanish faster than my shave ice melted. You can join the weekly class on Thursdays or schedule a private session.

      Another key highlight was the Seven Rituals Facial (bottom right). The seven different tools and techniques combined to give me the best skin I’ve had in years. The facial used CO₂ oxygen exfol