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Hawaii travel guide

Meeting & Incentive Travel Guide to Oahu

The Gathering Place

Oahu

Oahu is the most budget-friendly option for a Hawaiian escape.

Of all the islands, travel to and from Honolulu International Airport consistently offers the most flights and lowest fares for group travel. Though there are several high end resorts available, there are considerably more 4-star options and each have design elements created to specifically cater to group events. The iconic Waikiki Beach is dotted with resorts, and shopping, dining, and nightlife options are plentiful for all tastes and budgets.

History is the undertone for many of Oahu’s attractions including the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor, the USS Missouri (known as ‘Mighty Mo’), and the Polynesian Cultural Center. Oahu also has plenty of popular beaches and plenty of ocean-related activities including excellent conditions to snorkel, surf, swim with dolphins, and even explore the ocean depths in a refitted submarine. Your guests can soak up local culture and heritage and experience firsthand the Spirit of Aloha at one of the many festivals Oahu is known for.

Your groups will fall in love with Oahu’s festivals, giving groups many opportunities to bask in the Aloha culture. Some of the festivals include: The Honolulu Festival in March, Oahu’s Lei Day Celebration in May, the King Kamehameha Floral Parade in June, Prince Lot Hula Festival in July, and the Aloha Festivals in September.

In so many ways, Oahu truly has it all – whatever you seek for your team – surf clear blue waters, discover metropolitan cityscapes, indulge in historic architecture, becom one with nature, or simply unwind on the beach.

The Gathering Place

Landmark

Waikiki

#1 Activity

Pearl Harbor & USS Arizona

Fun Fact

Iolani Palace, located in downtown Honolulu, is the only Royal Palace in the USA

Recommendation for Groups

Most walkable options for free time activities or lower budget.

Oahu Hotels - Waikiki

Hilton hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort, courtesy of the hotel

Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort

The Hilton Hawaiian Village has grown to become the largest resort in Hawaii and even one of the largest hotels in the world – with 3,000 rooms. With five towers, five pools, a lagoon, 20 restaurants and bars, 90+ shops, and direct beach access, the resort has the feel of an authentic village.

It’s not even necessary to leave the extensive hotel grounds as there are plenty of activity and entertainment options. Traditional options, such as kayaking and snorkeling are available as are more unique offerings like hula lessons. Entertainment options include live music each evening, Friday night fireworks displays, and their popular Starlight Luau, plus many more.

If a self-contained resort fits your group’s needs, the Hilton Hawaiian Village is a top choice.

Meeting Planning Tip
We hosted a group of 1,200 with plenty of room to spare. Rainbow Tower is nearest the beach, which makes it a bit more expensive, and a good upgrade for top qualifiers. Plan an outdoor event on Friday night, and your group will think you spent $10,000 for the (complimentary) fireworks display.

Moana Surfrider, courtesy of the hotel

Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa

The Westin Moana Surfrider is known as “The First Lady of Waikiki.” That’s because, though built in 1901, it still remains a popular group destination. In 2014, the hotel underwent a $21 million transformation, renovating all 522 guestrooms and 36 suites. This mega-makeover included new furniture, carpeting, drapes, bedding and artwork, along with modernized elevators.

The hotel has done a wonderful job of remaining true to its historic origins while striking a lovely balance between classic, traditional fittings and contemporary designs. Like many Westins today, this historic structure is equipped to exceed your modern comfort expectations

Meeting Planner Tip
We’ve operated multiple incentive programs here. The location is fabulous in the heart of Waikiki. Enjoy a lazy afternoon in a rocking chair on the front porch or walk to Royal Hawaiian Center for high-end shopping. The historic details make this lady a real beauty, and a wonderful experience.

The Modern Honolulu, courtesy of the hotel

The Modern Honolulu

The Modern Honolulu (previously The Edition) is an exquisite boutique hotel with so much to offer. From the crisp and refreshing minimalist design to the Iron Chef-endorsed sushi restaurant to the trendy nightclub, young and young-at-heart groups are sure to have an unforgettable adventure. The ambiance created in the hotel is one of a kind. Its public spaces are predominantly white with exciting art pieces placed strategically throughout. The major artworks include an installation by Fletch, an Yves Klein design on the bottom of the Sunset Pool, and hand painted wall coverings throughout. The hotel has 353 rooms and suites, all with a view of the ocean, city, pool, or yacht harbor. It is a spectacular mix of private oasis amid a cosmopolitan destination.

The Royal Hawaiian Waikiki, courtesy of the hotel

The Royal Hawaiian Waikiki

The Royal Hawaiian is known as “The Pink Palace of the Pacific” because of its unique pink stucco exterior. As a Luxury Collection Resort, this unique exterior makes a grand and immediate visual impact on guests. The welcoming leis for new guests completes the arrival experience. The hotel is known for its stunning room designs, extraordinary service, and beautiful private beach area. As one of three luxury resorts in Waikiki, the Royal Hawaiian also offers fully equipped meeting and event spaces for any type and size function.

Meeting Planner Tip
No two rooms are identical in the main building. Because of the Pink Palace’s history, the rooms can be a little smaller, but the vibe is that of Hawaiian royalty with authentic touches like carved wooden doors.

Oahu Hotels - Off Waikiki

The Kahala Hotel & Resort, courtesy of the hotel

The Kahala Hotel & Resort

Removed from the hustle and bustle of Waikiki, The Kahala is well known and loved for the seclusion and privacy it offers guests. Because of this, it regularly attracts high profile celebrities, heads of State, and pop culture icons. The highlight of the hotel’s beautiful grounds are the “kissing point,” a secluded lagoon and breathtaking waterfall. In addition to the hotel’s many amenities, it is also the only sight on the island that provides swimming with the dolphins.

Meeting Planner Tip
Just 15 minutes south of Waikiki, but it feels a world away. Kahala is a legendary hideaway for presidents, international royalty, and celebrities – and your group will feel like one of them with The Kahala high-touch service and spacious guest rooms.

Turtle Bay Resort, courtesy of the hotel

Turtle Bay Resort, a Ritz-Carlton Property

Located at the tip of Oahu’s North Shore, the Turtle Bay Resort is a retreat property that boasts ocean views from every room plus a tremendous selection of outdoor activities. Guests are invited to tour the island by helicopter, horseback ride along the beach, or take surf lessons along the famed North Shore beach.

As a self-contained resort on 800 acres, it offers an unforgettable experience by showcasing Oahu’s natural beauty. Turtle Bay encourages a healthy and active lifestyle among its staff and guests and is a true farm-to-table resort featuring locally grown, organic ingredients in its restaurants.

Meeting Planner Tip
The Polynesian Cultural Center is 5 minutes away, which offers groups a blend of history and theme park, much like a Hawaiian version of Disney’s Epcot. Retreat setting is equally good for groups wanting to relax and unwind, or tackle adventurous activities like surfing the North Shore.

Oahu Activities

Pearl Harbor

The Arizona Memorial and Battleship Missouri are visual reminders of both the triumphs and sacrifices of World War II.
Sailing and Whale Watching

The Makani is a 65-foot luxury sailing catamaran built by Gold Coast Yachts in St. Croix, U. S. Virgin Islands. No expense was spared in the building of the boat. Because Hawaii is known as one of the world’s  greatest whale watching locations, visitors flock to islands in winter and spring to catch a glimpse of majestic humpback whales migrating for the calving season.
Snorkeling at Hanauma Bay

Hanauma Bay is one of the only coral reef preserves in the country. This very special place offers safe and exciting snorkeling in protected waters.
North Shore Tour + Surf Town Shopping

Guides on this tour identify scenic spots along this coastline tour including the fabled Valley of the Temples, Kahana Bay, the Kahuku shrimp farms, and the world-famous Sunset Beach, sight of the tremendous breaking waves.
Hawaiian Cultural Tour

Hawaii’s royal history is truly among the most unique of the 50 states. Once the lifeline of the Hawaiian Islands and its people, the influence of the Hawaiian monarchy is still evident in the island culture and traditions.
Sunset Cruise on The Spirit of Aloha

Setting sail from the Hilton pier, you will cruise long the wondrous Waikiki coastline as the sun slowly dips beyond the horizon.
Circle Island Tour

Oahu’s western shore is a lovely, sunny playground dotted with plush oases of green. One of the most outstanding spots on this tour is the circular shaped shoreline of Hanauma. This bay was once an active volcano, but now is a tranquil marine preserve. A bit further down the coast is Halona, a naturally formed blowhole due to thousands of years of volcanic activity. The tour also makes stops at the beachside town of Waimanalo and makes its final stop at the Pali Lookout. This sight is particularly significant to Hawaii history as it is the sight of the Battle of Nuuanu which claimed the lives of hundreds of men.
Rainforest Bike and Hike

This is an easy 5-mile downhill paved path that highlights the beauty of the scenic city below. Secondary tours also offer a 2-mile round trip along a nearby jungle stream which leads to a mountainside pool and private, 200-foot waterfall
Submarine Exploration

See the underwater sights very few are ever privileged to see in a specially designed $5 million submarine. The 40-minute trip goes to depths of 100 feet for unforgettable sights.
Dolphin Magic

Search for spinner dolphins in their natural waters and take in the majesty and grace of these happy mammals as they race through the waters and leap into the air.
Tropical Nature Hike

This trail is a hidden treasure that was featured in Spielberg’s “Jurassic Park.” On this trail, visitors will see native rainforest plants and bird, the valley of the lush Koolau Mountains, and a secluded waterfall
Island Tour with The Polynesian Cultural Center

This narrated tour makes a circle of Oahu’s highlights and will give you the rare opportunity to participate in some of the daily activities of South Pacific cultures. This tour is a great blend of education, fun, and excitement for all participants.
Diamond Head Crater

A guided climb will take you to the 763-foot summit of the Diamond Head Crater to peer inside this natural wonder. Along the way, you’ll learn of island geology, history, archaeology, plants, and animals.
Iolani Palace

Iolani Palace is the only royal palace that is part of the United States and is located in the capital district of downtown Honolulu
We’re here for you

Brightspot Commentary

Ask most people their dream of the ideal vacation and you’ll likely hear mentions of three must-haves: tropical beaches, one-of-a-kind opportunities for adventure, and fabulous dining options. Corporate meeting planners and incentive travel attendees have the same goal.

Few places in the world can not only meet, but so expertly surpass, these qualifications like the Hawaiian Islands. Fewer still are as extremely well-suited for group travel as The Aloha State. With a vast and unique range of outstanding accommodations, an endless array of activities, and mile-upon-mile of pristine beaches, an escape to the islands of Hawaii can offer the thrill of a lifetime to incentive travelers.

There are many good reasons, that year after year, the readers of Travel + Leisure, Conde Nast Traveler, and TripAdvisor rank Hawaii as their top choice for vacationing: that’s because whatever your pleasure (or that of your group), the many and varied islands of Hawaii can fulfill any agenda, meet any need.

Collectively, the islands embody the Aloha spirit – that gracious acceptance and warm welcome extended to all who visit; individually, each island is known for its own distinct personality and unique attractions that set it apart. Catering to groups is the specialty of the world-class resorts that dot the islands. All were originally designed to accommodate groups and their unique needs.

So, whether your team is seasoned travelers looking for unique, never-been-done-before experiences or they’re relative newcomers to the rewards of incentive travel, each and every trip to Hawaii can offer new sights, adventures, and memories for everyone.

When Hawaii is in the meeting or incentive plans, it’s amazing how work becomes so much more rewarding.

If you have any questions regarding meeting and incentive travel, drop us a line and we’ll get you in contact with our industry experts!

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