A HAWAIIAN HIDEAWAY
THE NEWLY REIMAGINED TURTLE BAY RESORT OFFERS A TROPICAL ESCAPE FILLED WITH LUXURIOUS AMENITIES AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR RELAXATION AND ADVENTURE .
By SHARON STELLO | PHOTOS COURTESY OF TURTLE BAY RESORT
Tucked away on Oahu ’ s North Shore , nestled on 1,300 pristine oceanfront acres , Turtle Bay Resort has enchanted visitors for more than 50 years . Established in 1972 and recently transformed in a top-tobottom remodel , the resort is beloved for its secluded beaches , activities like horseback riding on the sand and kayaking with turtles , impressive dining options , golf course and more .
The secluded setting on 5 miles of coastline , paired with lush landscaping and endless ocean views , helps to immerse guests in this tropical retreat , allowing them to unwind and unplug . And , as the only full-service resort on the North Shore , luxury amenities abound to further elevate the experience .
REINVENTING THE RESORT While already stunning , Turtle Bay Resort took the opportunity to remodel and update every aspect of the property when it closed during the pandemic . Inspired by nature and seeking to preserve its sense of Hawaiian hospitality and authenticity , the resort turned to a visionary team including award-winning architect Robert Iopa , who was born and raised in Hawaii . With strong ties to the local community , he has been deeply involved in North Shore planning and conservation efforts .
Perhaps most striking are the changes in the lobby , with walls replaced by even more floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the space with natural light and panoramic ocean views in every direction . Iopa worked with LA-based interior designer Dianna Wong , both guided by deep gratitude and respect for the land , Hawaii ’ s natural beauty and the island ’ s aloha spirit . These ideals are displayed in many ways , including the lobby ’ s large-scale artwork by Maui-based Abigail Romanchak , who specializes in Native Hawaiian printmaking , and Nick Kuchar , known for his vintage travel- and surf-inspired designs .
Another eye-catching element can be found just beyond the lobby ’ s Off the Lip bar . Perfect for photos at sunset — thanks to its reflection of palm trees and those pinkand-purple hues — an infinity-style water feature draws your attention outside , where a terraced deck includes a new , adults-only pool with its own infinity edge , in-water lounge chairs , hot tub and luxe cabanas . The resort ’ s family-friendly pool was also redesigned . And the Sunset pool bar was added , offering tropical drinks , burgers , fish tacos , poke bowls , salads and more for guests who need a snack while lounging by the water .
In fact , the resort ’ s entire culinary program was reconceived to celebrate local culture and the island ’ s agricultural bounty . The main restaurant , Alaia , exudes an
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