Surf Schools, Water Activities, and Ocean Conservation: 7 Hotels in Hawai’i to Embrace the Pacific

The Hawaiian islands are rich in cultural traditions connected to the Pacific Ocean—and the finest hotels and resorts provide experiences that allow visitors to discover them. From guided tidal pool explorations to surfing lessons, explore seven hotels across the Hawaiian islands that foster a deeper connection with the ocean.

1. Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

• Location: 3900 Wailea Alanui Dr., Kihei | View on Google Maps

The 383 rooms and 72 suites at Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea embrace the ocean view through expansive windows. Guests can deepen their understanding of the sea with experiences like the Wayfinder’s Journey, a catamaran excursion for up to six people led by the esteemed navigator Kala Baybayan Tanaka, whose expertise is rooted in her Polynesian heritage and her father’s mastery as a navigator.

2. 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay

• Location: 5520 Ka Haku Rd., Princeville | View on Google Maps

This lush, garden-filled hotel opened its doors in February 2023 along the stunning two-mile stretch of Hanalei Bay. The property’s Seedlings program engages young guests aged four to 12 in nature and marine ecosystems through interactive activities. The Marine Life Magic class takes them on a journey through tide pools, discussing local fish and wildlife while promoting eco-friendly practices like the use of reef-safe sunscreen.

3. Fairmont Orchid

• Location: 1 N Kaniku Dr., Waimea | View on Google Maps

The Fairmont Orchid boasts 540 spacious guest rooms set on 32 beautifully landscaped acres, each with its own private lanai. The resort also emphasizes cultural experiences, such as the Kalahiki Canoe Experience that takes place at dawn on the open ocean. Here, the resort’s Hui Holokai Beach Ambassadors, all of native Hawaiian descent, share cultural stories, blow the conch shell, and perform an oli, or chant, to greet the sunrise as it rises over the majestic Mauna Kea volcano.

4. The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort

• Location: 2259 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815 | View on Google Maps

Each week on the sands of Waikīkī Beach in Honolulu, a cultural guide at the Royal Hawaiian facilitates a Hi‘uwai, a traditional Hawaiian sunrise ceremony for cleansing and renewal. As the guide offers a blessing, participants enter the ocean, then return to shore, facing east toward Diamond Head crater, and chant “E ala e,” a call for the sun to rise and signify a fresh start.

5. Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection

• Location: 68-1400 Mauna Lani Dr., Waimea | View on Google Maps

The Mauna Lani resort features 333 rooms, most offering stunning ocean views of the Kohala Coast, and emphasizes rich cultural programming. Their Intro to Underwater Rock Running course focuses on a technique surfers use to enhance mental and physical endurance for larger winter swells. Participants enter the water with a rock to keep them grounded on the ocean floor; as they descend, they practice breath control, release the rock, and swim back up. This method promotes fitness while fostering a deep connection to the ocean environment.

6. Kona Village, a Rosewood Resort

• Location: 72 300 Maheawalu Dr. | View on Google Maps

The renowned Kona Village, which was devastated by a tsunami in 2011, was completely revitalized by Rosewood Hotels in 2023, featuring 150 hales (rooms) situated along the beach and a lagoon. The resort collaborates with the Ke Kai Ola monk seal rehabilitation center to educate guests about endangered species conservation and encourages them to participate in the recovery efforts for the seals.

7. Turtle Bay Resort

• Location: 57-091 Kamehameha Hwy. | View on Google Maps

As the sole hotel of its kind on O’ahu’s less developed North Shore, Turtle Bay Resort spans 1,300 acres, with half dedicated to conservation efforts. The resort offers 408 rooms and suites that showcase ocean views and artwork inspired by the surrounding natural landscape. Its commitment to sustainability is evident throughout: meals are crafted from leafy greens, beets, and other produce sourced from the nearby Kuilima Farm, just five minutes away; additionally, the 18-hole golf course is nourished using gray water treated by the resort’s own facility.

The resort collaborates with North Shore local Jamie O’Brien, a world surfing champion, whose surf school operates on-site. A short walk will have you equipped with a surfboard, paired with a Jamie-approved instructor, and often the chance to meet the champ himself.