Oahu is the third-largest island in the Hawaiian Islands. Known as the gathering place, Oahu lodgings offer the relaxation of its beautiful beaches and the luxury of a major cosmopolitan city.

The Kahala Resort is world-renowned for its luxury and comfort. In fact, in 2006, it was named the top place to stay on Oahu by the Conde Nast Reader’s Choice and was placed on the Conde Nast Gold List. Spa services are available to guests staying in the Kahala, but the Kahala also offers a destination spa. People who choose this route can luxuriate in both standard spa treatments as well as those with a Hawaiian flavor. The Kahala has an on site dolphin experience for its visitors as well as the more usual water sports available. Other amenities include a kid’s club and Hawaiian cultural classes for the whole family.

Each room or suite in the Kahala is decorated with dark wood and light Hawaiian colors and each comes with a balcony overlooking the ocean or the lush vegetation around the hotel. The five restaurants at the resort should meet anyone’s culinary needs, but the lodging is also only fifteen minutes away from the shopping and restaurants of Waikiki. For reservations or more information, call 1.800.367.2525.

If visitors want to be in Waikiki, the Westin Moana Surfrider might be a good choice. One of the first hotels in Waikiki on Oahu, The Surfrider first opened in 1901. A recent 50 million dollar renovation let the Surfrider keep its old world colonial style while infusing it with the modern elegance of the 21st century. The Surfrider offers premier spa services and unlimited opportunities for relaxation on the beach or by the pool. There is an onsite sports center and opportunities for water sports through the lodging. If visitors want more excitement, the concierge staff can help plan a Hawaiian cultural experience or steer guest towards the abundant shopping nearby. Plan a stay in 2008 when the spa and fitness center expansions will be complete. To learn more about the Moana Surfrider, call 800-937-8461.

For more of a getaway from the city vacation, the Turtle Bay Resort on the North Shore of Oahu might be what visitors are looking for. Like the previously mentioned lodgings, Turtle Bay offers spa services and luxurious oceanfront accommodations. But Turtle Bay is more isolated, with 5 miles of pristine beaches and surrounded by lush Hawaiian vegetation. Turtle Bay also has a golf course, some of the best surfing in the world, horseback riding, and hiking. For a luxurious getaway in nature, call 808.447.6508.

Another lodging on Oahu that offers golf is JW Marriott Ihilani Resort and Spa. Also located outside a major city, the Ihilani give a sense of isolation. Call 1-800-626-4446. Oahu offers enough different lodgings and spas to accommodate most visitors’ desires. White sand beaches, crystal clear blue waters, sports, golf, culture, shopping, fine dining, and spas – a vacation can be tailor made in Oahu.