The Kapolei center is about 1 mile south of Ko Olina and 8 miles west of Pearl Harbor.
Oahu is the largest Hawaiian island in terms of population. Because the largest metropolitan area, Honolulu, is nearby, and the island boasts all the things that attract tourists (such as beaches, resorts, and the city), it's also the busiest Hawaiian island. You should keep in this in mind when planning your trip.
The low and high seasons in Hawaii are a bit counterintuitive. The peak tourist season is in the winter months since visitors flee cold weather elsewhere to be where it's warm for most of the year. That means December through March brings the biggest crowds — and the highest prices on flights and hotels.
Fall and spring mark the least crowded times in Hawaii. Try to book your trip between April and mid-June or September to mid-December to lock in the best deals while still enjoying Hawaii's gorgeous weather. One big exception is the last week in April. Three Japanese holidays occur during this "Golden Week," and the result is an influx of tourists from Japan. If you're booking in that week, make sure you do it far in advance so you don't miss out on getting the hotel you want. Though summer is the low season, it's still a popular time to travel overall. You'll find better deals in the fall and spring.
If you're booking with the weather in mind, rest easy knowing that Oahu boasts fairly consistent weather. You'll find year-round average high temperatures between 75 and 85 degrees. April through October sees wetter weather than November through March, but the tropical climate means you'll almost always have humidity and warm temperatures.
The Kapolei area offers a big bonus for travelers looking for clear weather. The southwest coast of Oahu, especially the Ko Olina area, gets lots of sun.
If you're coming to Kapolei with a plan to surf, remember that the best waves are in the winter, when the wind gets stronger. December through mid-February is the ideal time for surfers, and you might also catch humpback whale migrations.
Another great way to save on your trip to Hawaii is by booking hotels in Kapolei that offer discounts. Look especially for places that feature discounts for members and other groups.
Marriott's Ko'Olina Beach Club, for instance, offers a senior rate that will help eligible travelers save on their dream Hawaiian vacation. Situated near Wet'n'Wild Hawaii and Ko Olina Marina, this four-star resort has rooms that include LCD TVs with satellite programming and DVD players, refrigerators, and private balconies or patios.
Three outdoor swimming pools and a private beach make this resort experience something special. You can also relax with facials, body treatments, and massages before grabbing a drink by the pool or winding down the day at the on-site beachfront restaurant.
Kapolei also has hotels in the mid-range tier that get you great value for your money. Embassy Suites By Hilton Oahu Kapolei features rooms with refrigerators, another way of staying on budget, and LED televisions with digital programming for entertainment. Stay connected with wireless internet, then head out to nearby attractions like Ka Makana Ali'i — The Center for West Oahu, Coral Creek Golf Course, Hawaiian Railway Society, and Wet'n'Wild Hawaii. Recreational amenities include a fitness center, spa tub, and pool, while a complimentary beach shuttle makes beach days that much easier.
If you're looking for another way to save while you make your travel easier, especially on arrival or departure days, you might consider staying a little farther from Kapolei but closer to the airport. This will make your travel a breeze while still keeping you close to the top sites of Kapolei.
Airport Honolulu Hotel, close to the airport as well as the USS Arizona Memorial and Living Art Marine Center, is one such hotel. Here, you'll enjoy a fitness center, picnic area, and outdoor pool along with video game consoles and cable programming in the rooms. The hotel's round-trip airport shuttle is complimentary and available 24 hours a day, taking the stress out of getting to the airport.
The natural wonders that surround you make any trip to Kapolei something to remember. When you're looking for a retreat open to the public, head to Paradise Cove Beach. It's often overlooked, which makes this cove of shallow, calm water a peaceful place to explore. You'll find fish and sea turtles here, and it's a great snorkeling destination.
Just to the west of Kapolei are the Ko Olina Lagoons, a series of sandy beaches surrounding four man-made lagoons, Hanu, Kolola, Naia, and Ulu. Perfect spots for snorkeling, the lagoons are also safe places for children to swim as they have lifeguards on duty during the day. The sand here comes from Lanai, a neighboring island. There's also a rock wall that was built to create a shelter from the open ocean. The lagoons hold a reputation as some of the most relaxing beach getaways on Oahu, so you'll want to build some time here into your stay.
Make sure you save time for golf when you stay in Kapolei. The Ko Olina Golf Club is not even five miles from Kapolei, and anyone who loves golf should not miss it. The championship course was designed by famous golf course architect Ted Robinson and has been listed as a top resort course by Golf Digest. It's known to cater both to beginners and more serious golfers, so no matter your skill level, you'll enjoy golfing in this picturesque setting.
Besides the beaches and activities you've put into your itinerary, you'll want to find a hotel that suits your personal needs and budget. Choose from luxury resorts to affordable hotels with easy access to the airport, and find a place to stay in Kapolei that will make your trip into your dream Hawaiian adventure.
Below are reviews of the city of Kapolei, HI from an actual visitor's perspective.
It has everything...shops, medical urgent care, gas stations, schools, state department offices...etc.
Had everything we needed within close area of hotel.
Convenient, great location.
Convenience to all shopping places.
Close to golf courses and soccer fields. Restaurants near by were all good.
Everything is at your fingertips. There is no need to go into Waikiki or town for workshops. Shopping centers are nearby and the town is spread out.
This area is great with just enough to do while not being over crowded or over whelming. Absolutely love the coves and the beaches.