Sometimes a trip doesn’t go exactly as planned, and it turns out to be one of the most memorable ones anyway. That was our experience at The Ritz-Carlton Oʻahu, Turtle Bay this spring break. We arrived with big plans for sun and surf and landed right in the middle of an unexpected storm. But even with the weather throwing us a curveball, this property completely won us over, and now we’re counting down to our next visit this summer.
The North Shore of Oʻahu has always held a special kind of magic: legendary waves, lush landscapes, and a slower pace that feels a world away from the bustle of Waikiki. The Ritz-Carlton Oʻahu, Turtle Bay sits right at the heart of it all, tucked along 1,180 acres of coastline with five miles of shoreline, seven beaches, and views that genuinely take your breath away.
OUR STAY
The Room, the Views, and Everything In Between
We stayed in an oceanfront room, and waking up to that view every morning was something I will not take for granted. The sound of the waves, the endless blue, and the feeling of being right on the edge of the Pacific set the tone for the entire trip. The rooms are spacious and beautifully designed in a way that feels true to Hawaii rather than a generic luxury hotel.
With four kids in tow, one of my biggest priorities is always finding a resort where the kids are genuinely entertained, and I can actually relax. The Ritz-Carlton Oʻahu, Turtle Bay delivered. The family pool was an absolute hit. The slides kept the boys happy for hours, and we kept coming back every single day. Honestly, they would have been content never leaving that pool deck, and as a mom, that kind of joy is everything.
The pool restaurant, “Sunset,” was another favorite. Easy, relaxed, delicious, and exactly what you want when you’re in vacation mode and don’t want to break the rhythm of a good pool day. It checked every box.
NORTH SHORE SUMMER
What’s Happening on the North Shore This Summer
The resort is fully operational, the beaches are beautiful, and this summer’s programming lineup is something to get excited about:
- Town & Country Chef Series (starting May 23) A new culinary series with Executive Chef Daniel Quintero, Chef de Cuisine David Fernandez, and Top Chef star Sheldon Simeon blending North Shore soul with Maui’s culinary heritage. A portion of the proceeds benefits farmers affected by the storm.
- Sunset Sessions (June 5 through August 16) Live local musicians every Friday and Saturday at Sunset Bar, featuring artists from across Oʻahu and neighboring islands. Proceeds support the On the Rise program for emerging Hawaii musicians.
- Fourth of July BBQ at Kuilima Point (July 4) A full Independence Day celebration with live music, a Taste of the North Shore dining experience, and an evening drone show.
- Jamie O’Brien Surf Experience Summer is the sweet spot for beginners and families, with calm, small-wave conditions perfect for first-timers and kids.
- The Stables Sunset horseback rides along five miles of secluded coastline and pony meet-and-greets for the little ones. Magical.
- Paniolo, a Hawaiian Cowboy Lūʻau An outdoor dinner show honoring Hawaii’s cowboy heritage with a traditional feast, cultural activities, and s’mores around the campfire.
- Nalu Spa Oceanfront treatments are rooted in Hawaiian healing traditions. Because a vacation should also include some time for you.
And yes, Haleiʻiwa, Waimea Valley, the Polynesian Cultural Center, and the beloved North Shore food trucks are all open and welcoming visitors. A full North Shore experience awaits.
We left The Ritz-Carlton Oʻahu, Turtle Bay already talking about when we could come back to explore the trails, get the boys in surf lessons, and experience their famous Hawaiian Cowboy Luau. Here’s to summer in Hawaii. We’ll see you on the North Shore.
xx Leila Lewis
For more summer travel inspiration, check out A Cozy Escape in Sonoma at Farmhouse Inn.
