Travel trends come and go at Oahu resorts, but romance never wavers. As couples seek out activities and accommodations that meet their specific desires, the island’s hotels are constantly dreaming up new ways to lure this valuable niche market.
“Romance travel is a key focus for Oahu throughout 2015,” said Noelani Schilling-Wheeler, senior director of sales and marketing for the Oahu Visitors Bureau. “Couples are spending more and more on romantic getaways, and a number of hotels are focused on capturing a bigger portion of that market.”
Here’s a look at a few of the enticing amenities, packages and promotions currently awaiting couples at Oahu resorts.
Halekulani
At this landmark Waikiki hotel, romance guests get a welcome amenity of sparkling wine and chocolates. Clients celebrating their wedding, honeymoon or anniversary receive specially designed room key cards and postcards.
“A passion for living and love intertwine at Halekulani every day, offering our guests the most romantic oasis in the world,” said Ulrich Krauer, general manager at Halekulani. “We strive to help couples create lifetime memories.”
Romantic spa packages include food and drinks on a private terrace. The hotel’s Table One service — a restaurant within a restaurant — invites couples to dine on a personalized menu at Orchids restaurant.
www.halekulani.com
The Kahala Hotel & Resort
A 10-minute drive from lively Waikiki, this serene luxury resort has a long history of treating VIPs right. Its romance guests get that same level of pampering, said Susan Koki, chef concierge for The Kahala Hotel & Resort.
“Our team interacts with couples daily, fielding their inquiries about what they can do in tandem,” Koki said. “They want to have fun together and make history as a couple.”
Special touches include an invitation for sunset cocktails and a framed photo of the couple. The staff also helps guests assemble a list of out-of-the-box activities, such as stand-up paddleboarding or karaoke at a local bar.
The Kahala’s Hooipoipo spa treatment for two calls on ancient Hawaiian massage techniques and locally grown products.
www.kahalaresort.com
The Modern Honolulu
For 2015, the hotel’s Uncommonly Suite Deal provides oceanfront suite accommodations, breakfast for two and a daily $75 hotel credit good for pleasures such as dual spa treatments and dining at Morimoto Waikiki restaurant.
“Once we know that guests are celebrating a special occasion, we help to set the mood by sending up a romantic welcome amenity,” said Passion Jennison, marketing manager for The Modern Honolulu.
A favorite is its “Pagne and Pleasure” gift — strawberry gelee in the bottom of two dark chocolate-lined glasses, topped with prosecco.
Also popular with couples is the adults-only Sunset Pool featuring cobalt glass tiles.
www.themodernhonolulu.com
Trump International Hotel Waikiki Beach Walk
As the only Forbes Travel Guide-rated five-star hotel on Oahu, Trump International Hotel Waikiki Beach Walk makes a great choice for a romantic vacation.
“Our signature service anticipates guests’ every need to make them feel like royalty,” said Alyssa Hui, spokesperson for Trump Waikiki. “Couples can indulge in superb modern luxuries in a tropical paradise setting.”
A good example is Trumptations, a private dining experience on the couple’s guestroom lanai. Delivered course by course, it’s designed like a private restaurant and enhanced by sunset views.
In the spa, the Hawaiian Enchantment package includes a couples massage and bath therapy for two.
www.trumphotelcollection.com/waikiki
Turtle Bay Resort
On the heels of Turtle Bay’s recent $45 million renovation, sales and marketing director Brad Doell calls it an “experience and event-driven resort.” Many of its romantic experiences are unique to the hotel, such as a private helicopter ride over the North Shore.
A favorite among romantics are the hotel’s upscale Beach Cottages, where couples can enjoy dinner on a private lanai with a personal cottage concierge. Guests can also celebrate their special occasion by booking one of Turtle Bay’s romance packages, featuring discounted guestroom rates, a lei upon arrival, spa and activity specials and a pre-arrival phone call from the concierge team.
www.turtlebayresort.com
