Ritz Carlton turtle bay or Marriott Ko Olina

Question

Hey guys! We are making a last minute trip to Hawaii for Christmas break. My husband and I want to spend our baby moon in Hawaii before baby comes. It will just be the two of us. We are looking at Ritz Carlton turtle bay or Marriott ko olina. I’ve been the Marriott ko olina before and loved it there. Thought we would try a new place. I would prefer not to be on Waikiki. We just want a really relaxing quiet trip but still close enough to Waikiki and all the good restaurants there if we wanted to go so that’s why I prefer Oahu than other islands. Anyway, has anyone been to both and what would you recommend? Thanks!

Answer

Congratulations on your baby moon! Both the Ritz-Carlton at Turtle Bay and the Marriott Ko Olina are excellent choices for a relaxing and luxurious stay on Oahu. Since you're looking for a quieter, more serene atmosphere while still being close to Waikiki for dining and shopping, here’s a detailed comparison to help you decide between the two:

Ritz-Carlton, Turtle Bay:

The Ritz-Carlton at Turtle Bay offers a very secluded and tranquil experience. Located on the North Shore, it’s far removed from the bustle of Waikiki, making it ideal if you’re looking for peace and relaxation in a beautiful natural setting. The resort sits on 840 acres of lush land and features stunning views of the ocean, with opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and golf. It’s perfect for couples looking for a more remote getaway with a focus on privacy.

Atmosphere: The Ritz-Carlton offers a more exclusive, resort-style experience. It’s quieter and offers more space for relaxation with fewer crowds. The resort feels very spacious with multiple pools, beaches, and dining options.
Location: The North Shore is about a 45-minute drive from Waikiki, so while it's not super close to the action, it offers a sense of seclusion and serenity. It’s far enough from the crowds that you can enjoy peace and quiet, but close enough to make a day trip to Waikiki if you want to explore the restaurants and shops.
Activities: Aside from the beach and pools, the Ritz-Carlton has a beautiful spa, great hiking trails, and opportunities for water activities like surfing and snorkeling. You also have access to golf courses with incredible views. It’s a great spot for an active yet relaxing vacation, with fewer tourists around.
Romance & Privacy: The Ritz-Carlton is known for its romantic ambiance, with elegant and spacious rooms that offer ocean views. It’s a great choice for a baby moon if you’re looking for quiet, intimate moments, and private relaxation.

Marriott Ko Olina:

The Marriott Ko Olina offers a more family-friendly and lively experience while still being peaceful and away from the crowded areas of Waikiki. Located on the west coast of Oahu, it is closer to Honolulu and the airport (about a 30-minute drive), making it slightly more convenient for trips into the city. While the Marriott is a great resort with an emphasis on luxury, its atmosphere is slightly more active compared to the Ritz-Carlton.

Atmosphere: Marriott Ko Olina is a beautiful, sprawling property that’s known for its stunning lagoons and family-friendly environment. While it’s quieter than Waikiki, it can have a more vibrant feel compared to the Ritz-Carlton. However, it still offers a relaxing vibe, especially in its quieter corners.
Location: The Marriott is located in Ko Olina, which is a great location for exploring the west side of Oahu. It’s closer to attractions like Pearl Harbor, the Waikele Outlet Mall, and some beautiful beaches, and is also about a 30-minute drive from Waikiki. It offers the best of both worlds: close enough to visit the city but far enough for a relaxed resort stay.
Activities: The Marriott offers multiple pools, a beautiful beach lagoon, and an on-site spa. It also has a variety of dining options, though the selection may be slightly less diverse compared to Waikiki. The lagoons are perfect for gentle swimming, making it a great spot to unwind by the water. There’s also a golf course and opportunities for boat rentals and water sports.
Romance & Privacy: The Marriott is also an excellent choice for couples looking for romance, though it tends to cater to families a bit more than the Ritz-Carlton. The resort offers quiet corners, but you may encounter more children around the pools and beaches. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, and you still get beautiful views of the ocean and lagoons.

Summary:

Ritz-Carlton, Turtle Bay: If you’re looking for a more exclusive, secluded, and romantic atmosphere, the Ritz-Carlton at Turtle Bay is a fantastic choice. It’s ideal for couples looking for privacy, stunning nature, and a more intimate, quieter experience. If you want to be more distanced from the tourist crowds and are willing to drive to Waikiki, this is a great pick.
Marriott Ko Olina: If you prefer being a bit closer to the action of Honolulu while still enjoying a relaxed resort vibe, the Marriott Ko Olina is a solid option. It’s perfect if you like the idea of lagoons and more amenities on-site, along with the convenience of being near the airport and attractions on the west side of the island. It’s still peaceful but has a more lively feel compared to the Ritz-Carlton.

Both resorts offer a fantastic experience, so it really comes down to your preference for either a more secluded and romantic retreat (Ritz-Carlton) or a slightly more active yet still relaxing resort with easy access to Honolulu (Marriott). Enjoy your baby moon, and congrats again on this exciting time!

Ritz Carlton turtle bay or Marriott Ko Olina

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