I can't decide between the Kahala Mandarin Oriental Resort and the Ihilani Resort and Spa! Any comments? Thanks!

Both are off the main strip of Waikiki Beach. I've seen both hotels, but have not stayed at either. The Kahala is about a 10 minute drive from Waikiki. The Ihilani is about a 30 minute drive from Waikiki. I've had friends who have stayed at the Ihilani and highly recommend the spa treatments, the facilities, and the golf course there. Hope this helps.

Suzy,

I'd go for the Kahala (my sister stayed there and loved it!), and it's not so far from the excitement of Waikiki, but still an oasis in itself!

Have a great trip!

The Kahala is great because it has dolphins and it may be likely to spot a celebrity (that's where they usually stay). There are great views of botht he mountain and the beach. The Ihilani, although much farther away, is closer to a water park. However, there are these awesome lagoons on the grounds that are its specialty.

I recall reading here that the Ihilani has lagoons which are netted-off from the rest of the ocean to keep sharks and larger fish out yet I saw no mention of this in the Ihiliani brochure or website. Anyone know why this is?

Also, are there any other places in HI or other parts of the U.S. which have such a thing? Sounds nice not to have to worry about sharks.

Also, can one swim in the lagoon if not staying at the Ihilani? My understanding is that all beaches are open to the public in HI although I don't know if the lagoon is considered a beach in this sense.

Yes, anyone can swim at the lagoons even if you're not staying at the property. The one thing that is off limits is that the first lagoon has beach loungers that are available only to the hotel guests. There is also a walking/jogging path that extends along all 4 lagoons... i've seen ALOT of beautiful sunday mornings there. If you're curious, you can also wander around the hotel and look around.

Thank you DMD. Are they truly netted-off from the sharks? And are there any other such lagoons anywhere in the U.S.?