The Ritz-Carlton O‘ahu, Turtle Bay · USA
The Experience
Turtle Bay is Hawaii with room to breathe. Set on the North Shore, it gives you the version of Oahu people dream about—dramatic coastline, real surf, big skies, and that feeling that nature is still in charge. It is one of the few resorts that truly works for families while still feeling beautiful and calm. Not because it is quiet in a strict way, but because the setting absorbs energy instead of amplifying it.
The surf school is the heart of the experience. It is welcoming, genuinely fun for beginners, and wonderfully confidence-building for kids. There is something deeply satisfying about watching your child stand up on a board for the first time while you sit nearby pretending you are not emotional about it. The beach is gorgeous and feels expansive, and the sunset views over the surf break are the kind that stop conversations mid-sentence.
Pools are family-friendly, including water slides that feel fun rather than feral. You can have a day where the kids are thrilled and you still feel like you are at a resort you would have picked even without them. That is the whole point.
The Highlight Reel
The Arrival: You arrive and immediately feel the difference from the rest of Oahu. More land, more sky, more calm.
The Setting: Wild North Shore coastline with beaches, trails, and surf breaks right in front of you.
The Standout: The surf school. Approachable, well-run, and genuinely fun.
The Details: Sunset views over the break, a beach that feels spacious, and pools with slides that don’t hijack the whole mood.
Why We Love It
The Surf School: A highlight for kids and adults, especially first-timers.
The Beach: Gorgeous, expansive, and easy to love.
The Space: Room to roam, walk, and exhale.
Ideal For
Families who want Hawaii to feel natural, not staged; couples who like a little adventure with their luxury; and anyone who wants surf culture, sunsets, and a resort that still feels composed.
Mini Edit
Outstanding. Surf lessons, slides, and enough space that kids can be kids without turning everything into noise.
Sebastian Luxe Perks
When we book your stay at The Ritz-Carlton O‘ahu, Turtle Bay through our Marriott STARS or Virtuoso partnership, you receive the following benefits at no additional cost:
Daily Breakfast: Complimentary full breakfast for two guests per bedroom.
Resort Credit: A $100 USD equivalent credit to be utilized during stay.
Room Upgrade: Priority upgrade consideration upon arrival, subject to availability.
VIP Status: Personalized welcome amenity and note.
Extended Benefits: Early check-in and late check-out, based on availability.
