If you’ve ever been to the Turtle Bay Resort on the North Shore of Oahu, you know what a gem it is. You may have also seen or heard of the crumbling state (literally) of the overall resort in days past. Despite that, since 1972, when it was known as Del Webb’s Kuilima Resort Hotel and Country Club, it has stood as an icon of the North Shore hosting locals and tourists alike, special events and weddings, and acted as a set for Hollywood movies. It’s always provided a beautiful backdrop for the most memorable of days. I’ve spent many a staycation there myself.
Hawaii is home for me, but I moved away in 2004 to pursue some opportunities. I return several times each year and in 2019, I had the chance to stay at the Turtle Bay Resort for a few days before returning to Europe. It’s always been one of my favorite places on Oahu, away from the hustle and bustle of Honolulu. It’s just a slower pace of life on the North Shore. I knew renovations were already being planned for the coming years, but paid little attention to it. I enjoyed the Turtle Bay I had come to adore, took the opportunity to disconnect and enjoy all that the property had to offer - the spa, dining, hikes, the beach and, of course, that amazing view.
Last year, Rob and I returned to Oahu together for the first time in 20 years. We actually met in Hawaii in 1999 when we both lived there and became lifelong friends. He left a couple years later and during Covid, we decided to elevate our friendship and are now a couple. So going back to Oahu together as a couple was at the top of our list - a very special visit - and it did not disappoint.
Oahu has grown so much since we both lived there, but the beauty of it is that a short drive away from Honolulu everything slows down. We chose to stay at the condos at Turtle Bay rather than the resort for this visit, wanting it to feel more like "home" and were unaware of the massive renovations that had taken place. Once settled into our condo, we strolled up the main road to the resort to grab a bite to eat and have a few cocktails.
Imagine our surprise as we approached the entrance to find it had been moved and improved upon. In fact, the entire resort has undergone a $250 million dollar renovation and it shows. Where the entrance used to be now stood a row of gorgeous surfboards, with the new entrance made grand and majestic! Walking into the resort was a whole new experience. Everything had been modified and it was no longer recognizable as the same property. Sure the bones of the property were the same, but the makeover was impressive. Higher ceilings with white flowing drapery hung like pillars - island elegance at its best - jaw dropping and impressive! And while everything had changed, some elements did remain, but in a better form. The walkway that used to lead to the restaurant entrance is still there, but it now ends at the spa and fitness center. The crumbling building is a distant memory, with a massive renovation to be proud of. Attention was paid to every detail, elevating the Turtle Bay experience. I loved the resort before and my love just continues to grow.
The spa has been renovated, offering a variety of services, some even right on the oceanfront. It was still being renovated during our stay, so we will have to experience this on our next visit.
I could talk all day about the changes, but I’d rather let the photos do the talking...
Can I say I especially love the new carpet and the flooring stone work?
We celebrated Rob’s birthday at Beach House by Roy Yamaguchi, located on property, a very short stroll from the hotel entrance. It was an absolutely perfect backdrop for the special occasion. For anyone experiencing Hawaii for the first time, Roy’s personifies the Aloha spirit and island ambiance. Delicious food, beautiful island decor and friendly staff.
We’re planning a trip back this winter and will definitely be staying at Turtle Bay for a portion of our visit. One element that has been added, that we are excited to experience, is the Hawaiian Paniolo Dinner Luau, located at the Stables. It takes place every Sunday and is an experience that pays homage to the Hawaiian cowboy heritage with a Hawaiian ranch style menu.
So that brings us to 2024 with an announcement recently made revealing Turtle Bay Resort has changed ownership and will now be part of the Ritz-Carlton portfolio of hotels. By the time we are able to visit again later this year, the transition will be complete, so we are excited to see what additional changes are in store.
If you find yourself on Oahu, be sure to take the scenic drive to the North Shore and stop by the Turtle Bay Resort for drinks, a meal, or even better yet, make a reservation to experience it all! It’s a place near and dear to me, so I’m also happy to answer any questions you have. Please feel free to reach out at connect@xworldaway.com.
Aloha and a hui ho!
Tammy
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